#and so coach leaves and has to go work for the lions

[itspileofgoodthings]

it’s the real life weight of friday night lights for me. the way things that are hard are just hard for a while and often solved in unexpected ways that involve some combination of compromise or luck or timing intersecting with characters and their choices but it’s never slick? there’s never a pat lesson to be learned or resolution reached in one episode or even two. and there’s always a certain real life quality of bitterness or regret threaded through it too even while the show is hopeful and forward moving.

[ellecdc]

the thought of the marauders and the slytherin skittles being on opposing hockey teams, and the reader being SOMETHING for the skittles (like their coach or something medical related) with the marauders absolutely feening for her has been rotting my brain recently, just had to get this off my chest thank you for coming to my ted talk.

hehehehe - also apologies to my non-hockey loving followers, I've clearly lost the plot

hockey player!marauders x slytherin staff!reader who they have a crush on [735 words]

CW: brothers, hockey, swearing

“Finally ready to leave the darkside and come join us in Gryffindor, gorgeous?” You heard a familiar voice call from behind you, causing the unlucky player you had cornered after the pregame warmup for content creation to roll his eyes.

“You do know that it’s terribly uncouth for the other team to trespass in the home team's wing, right?” Regulus grumbled as he gave his brother a pointed look. 

“‘Uncouth’, he says. Christ, Reg, join us in the 21st century, will ya?” Sirius Black chuckled as he moved to stand beside you; his already tall frame now imposing as he towered over you in his hockey equipment. 

“Get the fuck out of our hall.” Regulus corrected himself, causing Sirius to pretend to wipe proud tears from under his eyes. 

“They grow up so fast.”

“We thought we lost ya, Pads- oh!” Another voice sounded before two more Gryffindor players appeared from around the corner. “It’s you!” 

“Is it really breaking news to find a Slytherin player outside of the Slytherin locker room in the Slytherin stadium?” Regulus spat then, causing James Potter’s eyes to dart over to his teammate's younger brother. 

“Oh! Hi Reg, didn’t see ya there.” 

“Oh my god.” You huffed.

“Can I go now?” Regulus whined.

“No.” You and Sirius chorused before you two shared a look - you, glowering at him, and him, beaming at you. 

“How do you have the loveliest social media manager in the league and then whine when you have to spend time with her?” Remus Lupin asked as he narrowed his eyes playfully at Regulus, resting his chin atop his stick. 

James nodded eagerly. “We’d treat ya way better in Gryffindor, angel, just say the word.”

“The word is mischief, by the way.” Sirius added, shooting you a wink. 

“And here I was thinking my brother came all the way over here to wish his little brother luck.” Regulus deadpanned. 

“Why would you think that?” Sirius asked then, causing Regulus to theatrically drop his gloves as the two of them playfully sparred outside of the Slytherin locker room. 

You had to admit, it made a great video for instagram and tiktok - people loved brothers in the NHL. 

“Alright, alright. If you get a black eye before the game, coach’ll have my head. Get lost, Black.” You relented, swatting Regulus’ arm to dismiss him. 

“Good luck baby bro!” Sirius called after him when Regulus hardly waited a second after you told him he could go.

“Bite me.” Was all you heard as Regulus disappeared behind the locker room door. 

“The coaches are going to accuse you of coming over here to get in his head, you know.” You chided as you tried to level Sirius a look, though when you had him looking right back at you, you were sure it fell painfully flat as your cheeks heated to near painful levels. 

Sirius simply shrugged. “Easy enough to explain I didn’t actually come over here for him.”

“You lot didn’t actually come walk all the way over here in your gear just to talk to me.” You scoffed as you walked away, biting your lip as you heard three sets of skates walking behind you. 

“Sure we did.” James agreed readily. 

“Is that such a crime?” Remus asked.

“Probably not according to the league, but-”

“But?” Sirius asked as he moved to stand in front of you with a perfectly arched eyebrow, blocking you from disappearing behind a door with a staff only sign on it. 

“What is it you came to ask me?” You laughed, causing Sirius to throw his hands up in exasperation. 

“When are you leaving the Snakes to come work for the Lions?” Remus asked with a smile. 

“Why would I leave!?”

“They don’t treat you right, angel.” James answered solemnly. “You deserve better.”

“We love filming content; we’d be at your beck and call.” Sirius added. 

You hummed as you rolled your eyes. “Yeah, I’ve noticed you’re rather vain.” 

Sirius gasped and held a gloved hand to his chest. “You’ve noticed me!?”

“Get the fuck out of our hall.” You ordered him with a laugh, repeating Regulus’ demand from before. “Absolute fiends.” 

“On and off the ice, sweetheart.” Remus added with a wink as you pushed open the office door. 

“Hey! You’re not actually going to leave without wishing us luck, are you?” James called.

“Bite me!”

“Name the time and place, doll!”

[makethatelevenrings]

Story Time // J. Todd x gn!reader

Requested? Yes!

Warnings: none!

Summary: Jason became a frequent patron at the local library a few months ago and struck up a friendship with you, a librarian. Things change when you need an assist in a time of need.

A/N: after watching my roommate play all of Gotham Knights as Jason, I have come to appreciate this big himbo appearance of him and I would be the big spoon to him always

“I’m looking for this book. It had a red cover and was about lions, I think?”

Jason had to cover his mouth to silence his laugh at the other library patron’s question. The blank look on your face wasn’t making it any easier. You sighed, almost imperceptibly, and plastered a smile on your face.

“Are you perhaps thinking of elephants? Water for Elephants?”

“Is that the one with the Twilight guy in the movie?”

“Yes, that is Robert Pattinson.”

“Perfect! Thanks.” The patron darted off to the adult fiction section, leaving Jason at the head of the line. A smile, a real smile, spread across your face at the sight of him. Jason had become one of your favorite patrons ever since he came in to get a card three months ago.

“I’m looking for a book,” he teased. “It’s got a purple cover and I saw it once eight years ago.”

“Please don’t,” you groaned as you dragged his stack of books towards you. “They seriously think I can mind read.”

Jason chuckled and leaned against the counter. “Hey, you’re pretty good at figuring out what they ask for so…”

“You’re thinking about the shawarma food truck over on Davidson Avenue.”

He cracked a grin. “Damn, you really are a mind reader. Not my fault that it’s got the best hummus in town.”

“And tzatziki sauce.” You nodded as if he gave you some kind of sage advice. Your nimble fingers swiped the books under the beaming red laser, eliciting a chirp from the computer before you. You paused at the final book at the stick and raised an eyebrow.

“It’s for my brother,” Jason said in explanation. You studied the children’s picture book about different types of birds.

“How old is he?”

“...Twenty-seven.”

You snorted at his answer and scanned it into the system. Pushing the books across the desk towards him, you opened your mouth to ask a question but he waved you off.

“Don’t need it. I’ll have these books back by next week, I guarantee it.”

You winked. “I’ll be holding you too that, Mr. Todd. See you next week.”

He was back precisely seven days later with all the books read and finished, including the picture book that Dick had strangely enjoyed and poured over it with Duke and Cass. Damn, Jason would need to think of a better way to embarrass a man who willingly wore a v-neck spandex suit with a mullet.

You were behind the desk, as per usual, but there was a wide-eyed panicked expression on your face that he hated to see. Jason bypassed the shelves, tossed the books he was returning into the drop off bin, and headed straight towards you.

“Hey, hi, sorry,” you blurted out when you saw him approach. “Our children’s librarian has the flu and one of the main librarians fell on ice and broke her ankle yesterday so it’s just me and Denise and she’s currently trying to get holds ready and-”

“Breathe,” he ordered. His voice came out sharper than normal, much more like his Hood voice, but it did the trick. Your jaw snapped shut and you blinked up at him, surprised that it worked.

“Deep breath in. Hold. Out.” Jason coached you through that once and then flattened his palms against the counter. 

“I’m sorry,” you whispered once you were more stable. “We just have a reading event planned today and so many parents RSVP’d. Our library doesn’t get a ton of funding from the city because they think Bowery kids don’t need the same amount of resources as other neighborhoods since these kids aren’t expected to get out of here, but they deserve a fighting chance, y’know?”

You groaned and buried your head in your hands. Your voice was thick with tears and stress and frustration. “I’m going to have to cancel it.” Miserable. You sounded miserable.

“I can read to them,” he said. Jason immediately cursed himself out mentally the second the words tumbled from his mouth, but he couldn’t retract them now. Your head raised from your hands and he caught the spark that lit up in your eyes. It eased the discomfort a bit. Hell, he’d kill to make sure he never saw you panic like that again.

“Oh, can you?” Hope lined your voice right now and he shrugged.

“Sure. I used to read to my little brother.” He wouldn’t mention it was because Damian was incredibly docile thanks to being on heavy duty pain meds and the book in question was The Art of War.

You bounced away from the desk and rounded it, appearing at his side with a bright grin on your face. Your smaller hand enfolded itself around his and he almost choked on the warm, soft touch of your skin. Jason didn’t have time to pull himself together before you were tugging him towards the brightly painted children’s section.

Ratty bean bags and threadbare rugs dotted the floor. Jason understood what you mean by lack of funding. He made a note to guilt Bruce into donating a few thousand to this library and the local schools.

You ushered him over to a small plastic chair seated at the front of the room. “Okay, the reading doesn’t start for another thirty minutes, but I figured you could take that time to get familiar with the books. We have The Colors of Us, A Boy Like You, and King for a Day. Oh, shit, shoot.”

You cast a glance nervously over your shoulder at the two kids sitting quietly with books in hand over by the window. Jason repressed a snort of laughter and you rolled your eyes.

“Listen, I focus primarily on the adult books. I’m not a children’s librarian.” Despite your protest, you chuckled at your slip up. “We also have a book in Spanish, because we have a large bilingual community and Mary wants to include as many kids as she can. Next month we’ll have someone who speaks Korean, and then the month after that it’s Bengali, but-”

“Breathe,” he ordered again. You inhaled deeply to match his pattern and then slowly exhaled, a small smile flitting across your face.

“I speak Spanish,” he assured you. Jason picked up the book from the small pile and studied it for a second. “La Llama Llama Rojo Pijama. Yeah, I can easily read this.”

God, you were practically beaming. You bounced on your toes and then leaned forward, pressing a kiss against his cheek. “Thank you so much, Jason! You’re a lifesaver.”

Well, hell, that might be the first time he’s been called that.

Kids began to stream in with fifteen minutes to go. Exhausted parents looked positively grateful for an opportunity to explore the library and take some time for themselves as a small army of thirty or so elementary schoolers settled on the worn seating around Jason. They stared up at him expectantly and Jason Todd, someone who had faced down the likes of Killer Croc and Bane before was sweating bullets under the scrutiny of these little terrors.

But then he glanced up and saw you standing at the edge of the bookshelves to the kids area, a cart of books pressed against your hip as you stocked the shelves, and he suddenly felt at peace.

“Alright, kids, my name is Mr. Jason and today we’re starting off with A Boy Like You. Which, hey, it’s good you’re all learning about how fu- messed up toxic masculinity is at this age. Lemme tell you, that sh- stuff will control your life.” He propped the book open on his knees, ensuring that it mainly faced the crowd. “Can we all see the pictures? Are we good?”

The crowd of heads nodded and he dove into the story.

Jason liked it a lot more than he thought he would. He raised his voice when the books crested into exciting moments and he lowered his voice into a deep bass when dramatic moments occurred. The kids squealed and shrieked as he used funny voices along with animal characters. By the time he finished the final book, a smile had found its way on his scarred face.

“Alright, time to go,” one mother announced. She and her wife thanked Jason, but their son bounded right up to him and wrapped his little arms around the vigilante’s legs. Jason froze for a moment before he leaned down to pat him on the back and then direct him towards his moms.

“Thanks, Mr. Jason!” the little boy exclaimed. As the kids all darted away to tell their parents about the books, you sidled up next to Jason.

“I can’t thank you enough. Seriously,” you gushed. “And you were so good at it!”

He shrugged, heat rising to his cheeks at your praise. “It was nothing.”

“Please,” you brushed off his humility. “Let me buy you a drink after my shift as a thanks.”

“There’s no way in hell I’m letting you buy me a drink,” he said quickly and immediately regretted it once he saw your face fall. “I mean, we can get drinks, but Alfred would kill me if he knew I didn’t pay for your drink.”

“Alfred?”

Jason chuckled and ran a hand down his face. Truly, you might be the only person in Gotham who didn’t know who he was.

“What time do you get off work?” Changing the topic was the safe idea for right now. He could explain later.

“In about four hours. I’d hate to make you wait so long. I can just meet you later or-”

Jason nudged you and jerked his chin towards the circulation desk. “Got more books to shelve? I think I know the layout of this place well enough to help.”

You lit up. “Yeah! Let me show you how it works…”

He had a feeling he would be seeing you more than once a week.

Tag List: @khaetiin​ @mcrmarvelloki​ @gone-batty-fics​ @someoneimsure​ @perpetual-fangirl900​ @visagebrise​ @cursedandromedablack​ @alexxavicry​ @havingarebelliousstage​ @the-wayward-daughter​ @raging-trash-of-mind​ @kat-nee​ @khaylin27​

[kitashousewife]

in its place

an: i'm back with a full piece! this is based on alonica by LANY. this is probably my new favorite song and it is SO powerful. i recommend listening to it!

pairings: timeskip!atsumu x fem!reader

warnings: angst! stress! dissociation! angst to comfort, mentions of eating and drinking, established relationship

-

the weeks have dragged on lately, days seeming almost excruciatingly long no matter how many breaks are taken. the end of the summer has decided to go out like a lion.

schedule changes, and last-minute plans that grab the entire structure of the day with a greedy fist. long days, longer nights, and limited sleep.

needless to say, atsumu is suffering.

little by little, you've noticed atsumu become almost a shell of himself. it started off subtly, with small moments of him losing attention or ending the conversation quicker. short chats turned into silence after a couple weeks.

about three weeks ago, atsumu began losing interest in everything. typically one for sharing every detail of his day with you, gushing about his incredible practices or a new PR while lifting with the team, he was nothing if not excited. lately though, despite your best efforts, you can't get more than a few words out of him.

his smiles are small, his eyes are tired. atsumu's laugh travels through the house in both volume and joy, boisterous and contagious and full love life. now though, it's hollow.

numb, is how he put it the other night.

after a long day for the both of you, atsumu sat on the couch with your head on his shoulder. he didn't say much, only asking about your day and nodding along for the duration of your story. when he didn't react to some rather juicy gossip from work, you sat up. he jumped slightly at your abruptness, but said nothing.

"atsumu, im worried about you."

his ears rang from the silence. he opened his mouth to speak, but shut it quickly.

"do you want to talk about it?" you hold his hand and look at him. he nods.

"i don't feel like myself," he whispers. "im overwhelmed, i'm over it. everything. im gettin' sick of volleyball, i'm tired of coach and his shit advice," he sighs.

"i just don't know what to do."

that night, the two of you planned a trip. once the weekend came, the two of you would drive a couple hours down the coast, stay in a hotel, and spend the weekend relaxing and recovering.

when the weekend finally came, you could feel the relief washing over atsumu. he was smiling wider, he was speaking louder, and he couldn't stop asking when it was time to leave. when he began driving, he tossed his phone into your lap.

"pick somethin' sweetheart, we've got a long road ahead."

the drive went by rather quickly, and lots of stories were exchanged between the two of you. atsumu shared a story from his youth, when his mom got time off work and took him and osamu to the coast for the weekend. he was cracking up, grinning ear to ear, and you were doing anything you could to keep him going.

you arrived to your hotel around sunset, and atsumu rushed to check the two of you in to give you guys enough time to catch it on the sand. the two of you rushed down, laid a blanket down and sat down just in time for the sun to kiss the waves.

"just in time," you sigh, and he kisses your forehead.

"thanks to me, ya couldn't find the entrance to the hotel. i'm never gonna forget that," he smirks.

"how could you? you bring it up every few minutes," you nudge his side and he snorts.

the sun sets in silence, waves crashing with a hum as twilight takes over the sky.

atsumu feels restless. half of him wishes he would've stayed home, anxious about the work he's leaving behind. the other half of him is ecstatic to be away from it all.

the worry and the thoughts bubble up, slowly until they begin to sit at the top of his stomach. he's settling in, but with each passing moment he feels soaked with emotion and a yearning he can't explain.

his eyes look up at the sky and widen in amazement. the tranquility, the stillness, and the calming feeling become too much for him.

the stars glow against the purple sky, almost too bright to be real. the sand under his palms is cool and grounding, and his throat tightens.

he blinks once, twice, three times. slowly, then all at once, atsumu begins to sob as every emotion shatters the dam in his chest, flowing out mightily with their release.

you wrap your arms around his torso as he shakes, chest bouncing as the tears roll down his face, angelic as they sparkle in the moonlight. after a few minutes, he calms down, sniffling as he catches his breath.

"sorry," he sniffs, wiping his eyes with the heels of his hands.

"never apologize for crying, 'tsum. you are safe with me," you rub his back.

"i don't know the last time i cried like that," he looks out towards the water again. "everything is just so beautiful, i can't explain it but i just feel so relieved,"

you nod. he pulls you closer.

"even though were a few hours away, i feel at home with ya here. i feel full again,"

he pulls you in for a kiss, deep and special as the world freezes around the two of you. the type of kiss that feels like jumping into a pool, losing your breath, and taking a deep breath of air all at the same time.

"i love you," he sniffles again, cheeks wet with tears and eyes crinkling from a smile.

the two of you stay out well past dark, splashing in the water like children and dancing in the moonlight without any music at all. the two of you run in the sand that feels almost never-ending, filling both of your souls with relief and grounding each other in love and support.

atsumu falls asleep quickly that night, mind clear for the first time in weeks. he holds you close and rests with a smile.

[ros3ybabe]

Daily Check-in: April 22, 2024 🎀

Monday was okay. Monday was good. Monday was busy and I ended the day so so so tired. And I'm still stressed financially at the moment. But that's okay! Life always works out the way it should!

🩷 What I Accomplished:

made it to my job interview for the 2nd job a little early and did a good job ( I won't hear back for a while tho cause of the timing of interviews, finals, etc)

did the 11 minute Wake Up Yoga by Yoga with Adriene

did the 16-minute Yoga for Flexibility by Yoga with Adriene

got +12k steps (have no idea how many but I hit 10k by 630pm and I didn't leave work until 10pm)

worked a ~7hour shift

did my night time skincare routine after work

did my morning gratitude journaling

💞 Good Things That Happened:

my friend at work is going to help me purchase my plane ticket for work this summer and I could cry, it's so kind of her and I'm so grateful I have a friend like her <3

did good in my job interview!

accomplished my morning routine + woke up at a decent time

made it to my chemistry lecture + actually paid attention and took notes

talked to my dad on the phone a little bit

kept up with how abnormally busy it was at work and got complimented by my supervisors

my request for time off for a day in May got approved

tried new makeup that looked good (sephora brow gel and rare beauty Mascara for the win!)

💗 Stuff For Tuesday:

refocus on academics + study chemistry after class for the upcoming exam

start studying Spanish again (I have an italki lesson in 1 week)

prepare for nutrition coaching that's on Wednesday

prep for module quiz for psyc class

complete morning and night journaling

do morning and night skincare

order more waters for the week (essentia + 40pk of normal waters, the city tap water is absolutely disgusting in my town)

zoom call with the boyfriend

try to get 8k to 10k steps again!

I am going to make Tuesday a good day. I am going to make the most of every day and see the positives as much as I can. I am so tired right now, but I'm going to have a good day regardless.

til next time lovelies 🩷

💕 Song of The Day: Lion by (G)-Idle

This song has been making me feel some sort of way lately, I'm definitely a huge huge stan of (G)-Idle (and our girl Soojin, ofc <3)

[snowyroads]

Hello, I'm about to go on a yapping session about my feelings on different football rpf ships because i'm up and can't sleep! :) grab your popcorn and get ready. I also just want to do this cuz i feel like i haven't given y'all an insight on what goes on in my brain.🧍🏻‍♀️(i started this last night when i was half asleep lol)

joemarr- THIIISSS ONE! okay, clearly this is one of my favorites. (if you couldn't tell from my mass postings about them or amount of fics i have) i feel like a lot of ppl have different opinions on their dynamic and somehow I agree with every single one. i think every since LSU days, Ja'marr has worked on Joe getting out of shell. not to call Joe introverted (because we all know that man could get it) I just think at the beginning with him being new to the team and not knowing where he fitted in, Ja'marr was the one there for him and take him under his wing essentially. THEN, I think Joe did the same thing for Ja'marr when he got drafted to the Bengals. because dude literally told his coach to choose Ja'marr. (some fan behavior right there) and when ppl were starting to doubt Ja'marr's abilities as a WR, Joe was immediately there to back his man up. I also think that little pinky thing they do IS ABSOLUTELY CRAZY. cuz wdym!??? i think i could write a whole essay just about that stupid handshake of theirs. it's something about seeing two grown ass men, join their pinkies together as a sign of 'friendship' and then going on their merry way afterwards like they just didn't interlock their souls together? OH. ALSO, the fact that they don't even call what they have a friendship, they both say relationship when referring to each other. cuz that's totally what normal bros do, yk? GIVE ME A BREAK. WE KNOW WHAT YALL ARE. the clothes buying? the teasing each other? Joe wearing JA’MARR’S JERSEY!? ok im not even done with everything i have to say about them but we'll leave it there for now.

Stefon/Josh- they actually make me want to scream. when i actually first found out about football rpf, they were the first ship i read about and i fell IN LOVE. but i found out about them too late and only got to enjoy two years of them together before the divorce. HAHAHA. (it's actually not even remotely funny) One of the best moments i think i saw between the two of them was when Josh was giving a pre-game speech one time and Stefon was so hyped, he jumped up and helmet bumped Josh's chest. wanna guess what happened next? at the next pre-game speech, Josh put his hand on Stefon's helmet to 'calm' him and stop him from making any unnecessary head bumps. Another moment that was crazy to me was the amount of just touching the two of them would do. like they always had to be connected in some way! AND the hugs after that lions game, the one where Josh literally looked like he couldn't breathe until he got his arms around Stef? WTF. THEY MAKE ME SIIICK. how you go from saying you wanna grow old with someone to giving him a half hug after a game? HUH? i just have to tell myself that they actually text everyday and that the side eye was just for dramatic publicity. Stefon will always be my #1 DIVA! <3.

koc/jj- okay, this one is still kinda new for me BUT it aint hard to tell what's going on with these two. for one, KEVIN IS SO FINE. IDCCC. shit i don't blame you Justin. AND JUSTIN IS JUST SOOO. UGH. he's the definition of babygirl. which is crazy cuz i never thought i would see a WR and go "babygirl?" BUT W JJ I DID. and then i just think Kevin can't help himself when he's around Justin. Always all up on him and in each other's personal space. like damn we get it. we all wanna fuck that old man. and we all think jj deserves to be treated like the princess he is! which makes them perfect for each other. It also just automatically has that tension to it because they are a coach and player relationship, so it gives "we can't get caught" ANYWAYS, ik there is so much more with them too but that's all i can think about right now.

Mike/Tua- ALRIGHT, they don't get the recognition they deserve! and i think that's because they don't have a lot of moments between them but when they do, it's big and they go viral. like the head kiss we got after Tua’s concussion (which i actually hope he thinks about his life before a career in football) and they have that same coach/player dynamic like koc and jj. also, i think Mike McDaniel is too hot for his own good. mhm. especially when he wears those glasses. OMG. anyway, im getting ahead of myself. Tua is literally the sweetest human being ever too and i remember watching hard knocks last season and their relationship and chemistry is just…WOW. (which is also why i can’t wait till this year’s with the Bengals comes out) idk how to explain it.

Brock/Fred- once again, they are both fine AF. ITS INSANE. also, size difference goes crazy. ANYWAYS. (there’s not a lot on them either so this is more just what i feel about them) Brock being Mr. Irrelevant and being the last pick in the draft, going from sitting on the bench as a 3rd string QB to STARTING is so personal to me. and he was scared as hell having to start so randomly in the season but Fred was there to pick him up when he was down and give him all the confidence he needs! Fred being a vet and teaching Brock how to be confident in himself and his abilities to be the best QB for their team. AND THEN, Brock takes them to not just one but two superbowls!? (ik they didn’t win but still it counts for something) i also just find Brock/Fred to be the definition of golden retriever and black cat energy. Brock’s the golden retriever ofc (have yall seen that clip of him saying “hi mom!” to the camera?? OMFG) Then Fred is the black cat because he’s always so nonchalant to me. like when the camera pans to him on the sideline, dudes got a straight face as they’re winning like 34-10 (ik that hasn’t rly happened this season but we move on) BUT YEAH, yall see the vision right??

okay if you’ve made it this far tysm!! <3 these football men make me crazy. i hope yall enjoyed my yapping session and feel free to ask or share anything!! <33

[teeful-corner]

𓂃 ࣪˖ ִֶָ "'Cause for me, it is always you.".ᐟ. . . Timeskip! Kuroo Tetsurou x Reader | Gender Neutral Reader

ੈ˳For Tetsurou, is was always you; You where the only person who was able to make him a better man than he has ever been. Subsequently, you had been the only one who has managed to break his professional shell at a National Men's Volleyball game.

Maybe it was just nerves pinching at you, whether those be your own nerves or the conjoint nerves of everyone in the room, that caused you to break out in a light sweat. You were leaned forward in your seat, barely sitting on it anymore as your legs supported the wait of your crouched body. Sweaty hands gripped onto the railing that kept you up and away from the court, yet still allowed for the perfect birds eye view of everything that was happening. Here you were, at the finals of the Olympic men's national volleyball game: Japan Men's National Volleyball Team vs Argentina Men's National Volleyball Team. It was everything that you had been told it would be and more. The crowds roaring in cheer whenever their team would score, the overwhelming feeling of everyone in the room, the crashing of the volleyball and the long rallies. It all lived up to the hype and more, you couldn't help but feel like an excited little kid amidst it all. It was wholly, solely, extraordinarily just an unforgettable experience, how so many people's hearts beat as one for the same team and how they cheered in (almost) perfect unison; doing all they can to keep their team fired up for the several long, grueling rounds of back and forth between the net, the only aim of their game being to keep the ball in air and drop it on the other side of the court. You hadn't been admit on Volleyball, at least not as admit as your fiancé or any of his and yours friends; you had never been big on sports, it was just something that didn't widely interest you as you wanted to take other paths in life. Sure, in junior high and high school you had tried out for some of the teams, but nothing really came about it. You'd usually find a way to reason yourself not to show up to practice one day, then continue that train until the coaches and the players forgot your name and face entirely. But now, standing in this stadium and being engulfed by everything made you think; Had you missed out on some of the best years of your life? Had you been foolish not to try one more sport, go to one more practice, get to know one more person?

Maybe the simple answer to that question is yes, had been foolish. Maybe there was a more deep rooted and straining answer that justified your way of doing things. Or maybe, there was no answer at all and that was simply just a opinion biased answer, all keen on a person's morals and outlook. "Just watch as #10, Hinata Shoyo, runs across that court like a hungry wolf ready to get his next point! In combination with number #11, Miya Astumu's, serve he was able to leave the blockers on the Argentina Men's team completely rattled!" A sudden uproar filled the crowds, a rally from those supporting Japan equaled with the upset from those supporting Argentina engulfed the stadium in noise. It was louder than a lion's roar, stronger as well. It invoked fear, yet also dignity and fire in the players down the court and you couldn't help but rally along. It was a powerful, moving thing. Though no matter how many voices pierce and whipped the air of the stadium, Kuroo could always find yours. Kuroo had been situated down on the sidelines of the court, a spot in which he could see the game from the same level as those playing on the court. Being one of sports promoter for Japan Volleyball Association, he always had a spot down on the court's sidelines to feel just a little more connected to the team than the other spectators. It allowed him to get a good feel for how everyone worked together, how the cogs turned and what extra pieces could be substituted or added in to get everything flowing as neatly as it can. When he had first told you about the job offer that the office wanted him to take up, to travel over to the stadium that was hosting the Japan Men's vs Argentina Men's Volleyball game, he would have thought his offer for you joining him would had been declined. You usually didn't come with him to many of the games he had to go to, whether that is to check on the progress of the National's men team or whether that's to go scout out new recruits. You usually would stay home, not finding any interest in the sport but never discouraged him to not go. It had how the two of you had been living since Kuroo obtained his job and you no longer went to go support Nekoma's volleyball games because of him. Yet, you had turned his expectations on his head when you had agreed to come; saying how you needed a break from your job, and how your boss was almost forcing you to take a break soon as you never really used up any of your 'sick days.' Either way, no matter if you decided to come on force of your company or on your own free will, Kuroo was esthetic, and a little prideful, to have you here. So, when you even started cheering, joining in the crowd's big rally to encourage the Japan Men' National team, he couldn't help but beam. His smile grew from ear to ear, turning to look at you and all your immaculate beauty; shouting and cheering like you have loved the sprot since you were a little kid, shouting and cheering like you had done for him when he played with Nekoma. It brought something out of Kuroo, causing his voice to start to bubble deep within his chest and quickly rise; combining together, swirling around and conjoining with all the cheers. Subsequently, he burst out in cheers, joining the rally in supporting the team he helped promote. You had always been able to bring out the best side in Kuroo, and he couldn't ever thank you enough for that.

"What was that?!" Exclaimed Bokuto as he came hurdling, bouncing over to Kuroo after the adrenaline rushing match. Bokuto couldn't hide his big grin or even bigger, contagious personality which quite literally took up the size of the whole stadium; infecting everyone around him with this positive attitude that wasn't easily shaken off. This rub of influence was most notable in Hinata, Astumu, and Yaku who came to quip and question Kuroo as well, having heard his voice yell so loud and clear for their team; something that did not happen often when Kuroo was off on the sidelines of the court, as he tried to keep a more professional attitude. Kuroo turned to the team, some being his long-term friends other old rivals from when he was in high school, and couldn't help but knew his gut instinct was right; he just knew after his outburst they would be rushing him like confused dogs seeing their owner for the first time, excited to bark and jump on them. "Hey! You were all like- AAAHHHH!" Hinata exclaimed, waving his hands frantically in the air as Yaku and Bokuto where right by his side. They were nodding their heads furiously in agreement, and Kuroo couldn't help but let out a slight chuckle. These guys haven't changed much since highschool, he thought to himself as a snicker grew across his lips. Placing his hands in his pockets, Kuroo leaned back a bit in a suave motion that captured the attention of the three players in front of him. "Let's just say, I brought a little 'reinforcement' that inspired me to go all out this one time." Chuckled Kuroo, his snicker growing ever so slightly when he mentioned you, his little reinforcement. Though Hinata gave him a confused look, subsequently with Bokuto tilting his head to the side and scrunching his eyebrows and nose. And as Yaku stood there in thought, wondering who Kuroo could have meant by reinforcement (he hadn't seen anyone particularly special in the crowds or talking to him, before or during the match) you had made your well-timed entrance. Bokuto had been the first to realize you were coming, as you walking in from behind Kuroo (where you had been seated) and he was quick to extend an arm out. He waved frantically, shouting your name as if you couldn't see the group of four and you had been aimlessly wondering around the stadium in search of them. You chuckled slightly at Bokuto's boosting, which was followed by both Hinata and Yaku greeting you as you drew closer. "Hey, long time no see!" Yaku called as you took your spot next to Kuroo, who had promptly wrapped an arm around your waist and drew you closer to him; it was a subconscious habit he had picked up through all the years the two of you had spent together. You didn't mind, in fact you enjoyed being in his arms. So, you didn't pay him any attention as you waved to the three players in front of you. "Hey Bokuto, Hinata, and Yaku. Crazy game, huh?-" You started, your tone as light was whipped cream yet soft and a little hoarse from all the yelling it had suddenly endured. You usually don't raise your voice any louder than normal speaking volume, so the sudden shouting and screaming, crying like the world was ending anytime they lost a set was something I wasn't used to. That, Bokuto knew well; it was only a given with how much he decided to drop by our house unannounced, or even announced. So, it was no shock to you for Bokuto to notice your voice was a little hoarse, "Hey, hey! What happened to you?!" Bokuto asked, as intrigued as a little child. He leaned forward at looked at you with his eyes, all big and round, like he was still captain of the owls; and you couldn't help but chuckle a little. You reached up and rubbed your soar throat, smiling softly at Bokuto as you tried to reassure him and his concerns. "Ah, nothing. I just haven't shouted that much since I was cheering for Kuroo at Nationals." Having been informed of your decision, a surprising one at that, Yaku was the first to realize who Kuroo had been speaking of!

"YOU'RE THE REINFORCEMENT!" Pointed Yaku, his grin beginning to beam from ear to ear as he now understood why Kuroo had been so excited earlier! Only you were able to break Kuroo's professional attitude on the court sidelines, get him to scream and shout like he had been; bringing out the old captain that rested inside of him, a captain that would always look at you during a match and get even more pumped than he had been. Even when he is on his last leg, thighs burning and stamina all depleted, you where one of the major factors that kept him motivated and kept him running that extra step forward. Realization rang in Boktuo and Hinata, "OH!" They both reeled, looking between you and Kuroo as you couldn't help but become rather perplexed by the sudden events. You rubbed the back of your neck, glancing up at Kuroo with one eyebrow scrunched down and the other cocked upwards. There was a sneaky, questioning smile on your face as Kuroo playfully shrugged his shoulders, acting like he had no idea on what they were talking about. You knew he did though. "You were cheering us on?!" Bokuto roared, fists balled in as all the energy he had lost playing Argentina surged back into his body. Hinata looked as shocked, yet ready as Bokuto did; and for some reason you couldn't help but wonder if your cheering was somehow contagious? "Yeah, I was cheering you guys on. You played an amazing game today!" You laughed gently, waving trying to wave off Bokuto's sudden excitement. Yaku's beam couldn't be brighter, but his face soon turned playful, "What did Kuroo bribe you to get you to cheer? Nevertheless, cheer so loud that Kuroo heard you over everyone else in the crowd? Money? A nice date? maybe something m-" "Alright, Yaku, that's enough!" Kuroo was quick to interject, acting as though he was a knight in shining armor; here to save you from anything that the three players tried to through your way. You couldn't help but roll your eyes at Kuroo antics, the ones you knew the best and loved the most. You silently raised your hand, slowly counting down from three to one. When you lowered your first finger, subsequently reaching zero, Kuroo quipped, "Of course, I wouldn't protest if I was able to get some..." Kuroo started but was quickly shut down with you shoving your hand in his face, effectively making him eat his words. Something that caused Yaku to start to howl with laughter, followed by Bokuto. "Nope." You shut Kuroo down completely, causing him to pout into your hand. He reached up, gently took your wrist into his hand, and brought it down to his chest. He melodramatically tossed his head back, sniffling and pouting like a toddler as he drew up his free wrist to wipe away non-existent tears. "Oh, my dear, you pain me so much!" Kuroo cried wolf, "You're so mean to me and for no reason? Is my love not enough for you, do you need my money too? Listen how my heart aches for you, aches at all your harsh words and aches for your touch!-" "I didn't expect Kuroo to still be this whipped for you 5 years into your relationship." Mumbled Akaashi as he now stood next to Bokuto, who seemed more than (playfully) disgusted at Kuroo's show of affection towards you. Yaku was playfully snicking his finger into his mouth, his tongue drawn out as he fake gagged at the whole situation. You were left shaking your head slightly, bitting back giggles at Kuroo. "You know him, never can over the puppy dog phase." I teased as I drew my hand away from Kuroo's chest, reaching back and tauntingly rubbing his back like a parent trying to soothe their little kid. "I feel bad for him sometimes, thinking he needs to act all cute for affection. It hurts, but nothing I do seems to fix it." Akaashi raised a hand to suppress his chuckle, a small grin having lined his lips as Kuroo looked down at you bum hurt at your statement; maybe he was also hurt that you played along with Akaashi and not him. He was prompt to place a hand on his waist and look away, "Well, at least you love it. I can saw that for sure." Kuroo huffed, causing you to chuckle.

"Yes, I do love your weird, childish antics as much as I love you and your bed head, Tetsurou." I squished Kuroo's face, forcing him to make duck lips so I could entertain myself with his slightly scrunched face. Yaku seemed very much entertained about the duck lips himself as he sneakily took a photo of Kuroo, his camera shutter being the only thing that gave it away. "Shit." Yaku mumbled as Kuroo whipped his head around towards the Libero. "HEY! Yaku what the hell-!?" Subsequently, Bokuto sprung at the chance to try and retrieve the photo from Yaku before Kuroo could take his phone and delete it.

©this work belongs to teeful-corner.ᐟ please do not plagiarize, copy, or steal this work; like, relogs, and saves are appreciated :D

[boxenstopp]

it's 1 am, anyway time for walkthrough of my entire rewatch of czech it out. as my brain slowly melts into pieces. get ready for a long-as-shit post.

EPISODE 1!!!!!

can i say. first of all. wtf are these graphics. what were they thinking and why does it kind of work with the atmosphere.

second of all. introduction of the coffee. does carzzy like coffee? is that his coffee? who made the coffee? all differs depending on the video.

introduction of the smiley "i agree to anything carzzy says" humanoid. he has that rookie vibe here like he's very unsure of himself but oh boy marek, carzzy is not a stable anchor.

also, carzzy calling humanoid "marek brazda" every chance he gets, istg. he 100% says it just because he loves how it sounds. brazzzzda.

cut to carzzy calling him unskilled and we get the classic "i've been insulted by carzzy" face. i love that he has these patented modes. so far we've had "carzzy loml you can never do anything wrong (meant ironically)" and "carzzy loml 🥺🥺 spare me anything sir i haven't but a penny" (it has been 40 seconds)

face is exemplified when carzzy goes out of his way to place his cup on (what i assume is) humanoid's desk, cause of course he does.

humanoid gets asked a question about mid and so carzzy is RESPECTFUL and lets humanoid speak.

just leaving this here. btw: "marek brazda" counter: II

i realize at this point there are so many things to point out but i'm too lazy to screencap them. first of all, carzzy complaining about pantheon/taliyah and humanoid who was not listening at all just going "nice :)" and carzzy also needs a moment to register and then goes. "no." and then they start arguing about something with approx. 0 heart and 2 braincells of what they're arguing about. and then carzzy does the thing where he lets humanoid get the last word (thing he does all the fucking time) and just hums like a girl cause SHE IS down bad. (btw me calling carzzy a girl is not an insult it's an um actually? 🏳️‍🌈🤓 moment.)

G2 TIME!!

one of the most important things about carzzynoid is their nonchalant complete factually incorrect statements. can guarantee you they think it's the funniest shit ever, however, it's only funny if no one laughs. they have these voices where you can tell they're trying to make themselves sounds as uncaring as possible. anyway yeah guys, g2 is 10th, 9th place team for sure.

CAN I SAY. carzzy's heterochromia is insane in these early videos. every close-up on his face i go woawwww!! idk if it's more noticeable or if i'm just going insane. anyway humanoid goes on to end the segment with "pojďme se na to společně podívat!" (according to software that seems about correct to me) meaning "let's take a look at it together" otherwise LITERALLY meaning "check it out." or something pretty close. as an EXTREME linguistics nerd and general languages lover i think hearing them speak czech makes me explode about 10 times anyway so. idk if that's a correct analysis :)

THIS carzzy smirk. i could write a paragraph here honestly. anyway humanoid asks a question and carzzy does not answer because why would he.

EYES.

then carzzy goes on a rant about how amazing their coach is only for his genius mordekaiser pick to be wasted on MAREK BRAZDA (counter: III)

insulted marek left, "i'm not blaming anyone" marek right. (carzzy was totally blaming you dude. you're both so horrible.)

carzzy checks in on humanoid for that one, lmao. makes sure that he understands, yep.

NEXT DYNAMIC UP!! the fuckin sad lions/chad lions thing. carzzy thinks they are "sad lions" cause they lost both games.

carzzy calls humanoid a czech, a clearly very embarrassing insult. also he hesitated a bit which meant he was SCRAMBLING for a different insult but really. czech? that's the best he could come up with. pussy.

anyway he's bullied marek into participating in the content and so he actually has to give his thoughts and he thinks he's a bad chad bitch who actually LET them win. also "this guy" counter: I. because humanoid hates calling carzzy anything actually. carzzy is just a pest to him and he needs to express that to carzzy face. obviously.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION!! i love how their dynamic is straight up insult each other until one person goes: actually you're the best i love you so much you're so hot so talented i agree with everything you say i'm a shit stain you're a saint i'll do anytthing-

VIDEO END

final thoughts: ough it's 2:30 am now but it was worth it honestly feels fucking amazing to type all this out imma go to sleep hopefully nobody reads this because really you're wasting your time. if you did <3 thanks.

[ear-of-abigail]

Good luck to all!

First days of autumn were cold in my homeland. So I suggest you warm up with two sketches:

"Ma, what if I look funny?" - Tyrrel nervously shifted from paw to paw, twirling a makeup brush in his hands. Tomorrow he had a performance in the school drama club, his first in a leading role, and the boy was terribly worried. In the club, he was advised to learn how to do makeup so that his face would be noticeable on stage, but the boy was afraid that makeup would only make everything worse.

"You are always simply beautiful, my dear," - Lucy Gray said quietly, more like a purr, while she was preparing everything she needed. Tyrrel asked her to help him choose makeup in advance. - "You know, when I performed for the first time, I was also very nervous. But as soon as you go on stage, everything disappears. You don't even see the audience, remember? And also: no one knows the script except you," she continued to melodically reassure the boy. — «This way, please,» — she nodded theatrically to the chair in front of her and nimbly jumped on the table. Despite his modest 15 years, Tyrrell was already much taller than the woman. — «now you will become simply unsurpassed~»

Tyrell slowly calmed down under this gentle voice and obediently sat down in his place. Lucy got to work, carefully thinking over every detail. Although she was not a professional in this, she definitely knew which color would work best under which lighting, and which facial features should be emphasized in the semi-darkness. In addition, they experimented together in many ways and laughed, forgetting about all worries. Tyrrell enthusiastically told about the last rehearsal, and Lucy Gray listened to him attentively, sometimes reacting to his story with short humorous remarks. She understood perfectly well how important it was for Tyrrell to feel his own importance now and to receive a little support that would cover up, at least for a while, his enormous inner insecurity.

Although the day was far from over, Sylvia Sunset had already finished her training. She had been showing excellent results, and the coach had allowed her to leave on schedule, rather than work overtime as usual. Sylvia said goodbye to everyone as usual and went outside to call a taxi when she felt that someone was watching her. The girl immediately began to look around and noticed her father's figure in the parking lot for official vehicles near a black car. She was incredibly happy: her father rarely has time to just talk to her in the evening, let alone come for her without a reason. Although Sylvia did not show it and simply calmly walked towards the lion.

"Hi, pa," - she still "gave herself away" with a purr.

The girl trustingly reached out to her father, and he immediately embraced her in a gentle embrace. True, not for long, because the lion quickly let go of the girl and offered his hand to take the bag from her and help her into the car.

"How was the training, Sill?" - he sounds calm, although Silvia knows that it is not indifference. If he does not care, he simply does not ask.

The girl shakes her head slightly and does not give up her bag.

"They praised me for a year in advance," the girl answered playfully, and carefully took a step back. - "Can we walk a little? I just came from training, I do not want to lie in bed later."

Corio thought for a moment, shrugged his shoulder and went forward in agreement, already figuring out the way home on foot. Silvia immediately hugged his hand, like a real lady, which caused even such a reserved animal as Snow to smile lightly, barely noticeable. In fact, he adored his little girl: just a copy of Lucy Gray, only she obeyed him in everything and loved him endlessly, no matter what he did.

On the way home, Sylvia continued to chatter about her day, not forgetting to mention the school gossip. The girl knew that he was listening to her, and each time she smiled at him wider and more sincerely, when he, too, became engrossed in the conversation

[toxic-mothers-tourney]

Toxic propaganda: Rosa Ushiromiya (Umineko: When They Cry)

Left her daughter alone, sometimes for days at a time, with the excuse that it was for work when in reality she was off on vacations on her own multiple times, when people around her neighborhood got concerned SHE got mad at her daughter, when her daughter was seen playing with a stuffed animal with herself she also got mad thinking people would think they're weird, her daughter is 9. She is also physically and emotionally abusive as seen when she "killed" one of her daughters stuffed animals after she wouldn't stop playing with it. Literally the worst

she isolates, destroys the toys of (including the very precious lion plush that her daughter regards as a little brother/best friend), beats, and blames her (heavily implied but not directly stated to be) autistic 8-year-old daughter Maria for, among other things, her lover leaving her and her business failing, and her low status in the family. there's extensive sections of an already very very long visual novel devoted to whether it's right (as in moral and as in the practical choice to survive) for Maria to try to recognize her kind moments and to separate 'good' Rosa and 'bad' Rosa that made me cry several times. those sections about Maria's perception of her are tied in closely with overarching themes of the work and compared to the abuse dynamics of other parts of the family

A sad angry ball of generational trauma in the shape of a woman, just like the rest of her family. She is the mom of all time.

She's written incredibly realistically to the point that you absolutely understand where she's coming from but also understand she's a horrible person. The writer of Umineko was a social worker before a writer, and it absolutely shows.

some notable things single mom rosa has done:

-got mad that some nice lady on the train tried to give her daughter maria some candy cause ???, and when maria wouldnt give the candy back straight up hit her. bought maria a lollipop to try to make up for hitting her and then later crushed the lollipop cause maria was being 'creepy' by talking about the occult to her family (maria is 9)

-left an even younger maria alone at home for days at a time while she was gone on business trips (actually vacations with her boyfriends). she would literally coach maria on how to not draw attention to herself when doing this (dont bring your plushies, dont go to the same store multiple days in a row, dont talk to ppl etc)

-when this came out after maria lost her house key and cps came investigating, she 'killed' two of marias imaginary friends by destroying the toys they were connected to. maria has a very active imagination and to her this was clearly her friends being murdered in front of her, the sound effect from when someone dies even plays

-this is more funny than bad but she told maria she doesnt have a dad cause the father ran off with the money she gave him to make his fortune with, so now maria thinks shes a virgin birth and kickstarting her interest in the occult

in short she loves maria but also resents her a lot, so she ends up emotionally and physically abusing and neglecting her, and then trying to make up for it, mostly with gifts

She's a really complicated portrayal of how some of the worse abuse comes with good intentions. She really does love her daughter and is really concerned about people will treat her for being autistic but that means she ends up being super concerned about Maria being "normal" in really harmful ways

So adept at psychological and physical attacks that her 9yo daughter was rooting for an evil witch to kill their entire family so she could reunite with her "nice mama" in the afterlife

your favorite child beater and emotional mess

[news4usonline]

Rams defense will play 'Eleven as One'

During his tenure with the Los Angeles Rams as the team’s head coach, Sean McVay has had one constant that he could always count on being there: the presence of defensive tackle Aaron Donald.  That is no longer an option for McVay. Or the Rams. Donald and all of his offensive backfield wrecking ways retired in the offseason leaving a deficit in the Rams’ defensive line. “We were so fortunate and blessed to have such a special player in Aaron Donald be around,” McVay said after a team’s practice on Wednesday, Sept. 4. “What I thought was cool is he set a great example for guys that saw him play. I can use him as stories all the time. 

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay paces the sidelines during a 2024 preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys on Aug. 11, 2024, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Photo by Mark Hammond/News4usonline “He was around last week. I just saw him the other day. It's pretty special that he's earned the right to be able to be so content, complete, and full to use his words. He's coaching his son's football team, loving that,” he added.  Donald played 10 seasons in the NFL, all with the Rams. He was an eight-time All-Pro selection. He was named Defensive Player of the Year three times. And every season he played in the NFL, Donald was tapped as a Pro Bowl player.   Donald was more than just a mainstay for the defensive line of the Rams. He was the pulse of the defensive unit as well as being the heartbeat of the team.  Now that Donald is enjoying retirement, McVay has had to re-tool and revamp his defensive line with rookies Jared Verse and Braden Fiske and second-year players Kobie Turner and Byron Young being at the center of the overall. 

Aaron Donald (99) proved to be the anchor of the Los Angeles Rams during the 10 years he played in the NFL. Now that he has retired, the Rams will depend on multiple players to fill the void that Donald left behind. Photo by Mark Hammond/News4usonline When he was wreaking havoc on the football field, Donald became the center of attention for opponents' offensive schemes. He routinely squared off and handled double-teams like a fly-swatter easily flicking off annoying pests. Now, Donald’s bigger-than-life stature as the premier defensive player in the NFL has cast a large shadow over the Rams’ defensive line.  To move on to the team’s new chapter (life without Aaron Donald), McVay wants his young players and the defensive unit as a whole to go out and do their thing.    "I want them to play the way that they're capable of the way that they've played throughout the offseason, through training camp,” McVay remarked. “I want them to be able to play within themselves. Go enjoy it. I want them to have a great week of preparation so that they can go play with a quieted mind and cut it loose. I really love this group that we've been around.”  

Rams rookie defensive tackle Braden Fiske (55) and veteran Desjuan Johnson (94) at work during a training camp practice at Loyola Marymount in Los Angeles, California. Photo by Mark Hammond/News4usonline The Rams play the Detroit Lions on the road in their season-opener. The contest will have many dynamics. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford will return to the place where he played 12 seasons. McVay and his defense will match wits against Jared Goff, the Lions quarterback the Rams traded to get Stafford.     The Rams saw their postseason dashed in a 24-23 NFL Wild Card game against Detroit. That would be Donald’s last game. Since Donald’s departure, McVay and the Rams have gone about their business by stacking the right chips to form their redo defensive line.  Verse (Round 1) and Fiske (Round 2) were selected as the top draft picks for the Rams during the 2024 NFL Draft. Young, Turner, Bobbie Brown III, and Christian Rozeboom round out the defensive front for LA.     Replacing Donald's productivity will undoubtedly be a challenge for McVay and the rest of the team. McVay, though, is extremely confident that he has the right players to meet those challenges.  “We've said it over and over, and you know this too,” McVay said. “You're not ever replacing an Aaron Donald and that's not what we're asking of our guys. I want Kobie Turner to be Kobie Turner. I want Bobby Brown to be Bobby Brown. Braden Fiske to be Braden Fiske. That's really what we're looking for. All the guys around him, this is about 'eleven as one.’”  Lead image caption: Los Angeles Rams edge rusher Jared Verse (8) tries to stop a ballcarrier during a training camp practice on Aug. 3, 2024, at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, California. Photo by Mark Hammond/News4usonline Read the full article

[naturecoaster]

800+ Saint Leo Students Move onto Campus August 22

It was a day of excitement and a few nerves for new students as they arrived at Saint Leo University on Thursday, August 22 to begin their college careers. They were greeted by faculty, staff, coaches, athletes, orientation leaders, and other fellow students who helped unload their vehicles and carry their belongings into the residence halls. More than 800 new and transfer students are registered and moving into residence halls, and classes begin on Monday, August 26, at the campus in Pasco County as well as online and at the university’s regional education centers in Florida and Savannah, GA. “There’s lots of emotions,” said Adrianna Rodriguez, a freshman from Spring Hill, FL, as she unpacked. “A little bit scared, a little anxious,” but overall, the communication and journalism major was looking forward to life at Saint Leo and beginning her studies. For mom, Christine Conlon of New Hampshire, dropping off her son Zachary at Marmion-Snyder Hall also brought out those feelings, but she was confident and comfortable with leaving him at Saint Leo, joined by his roommate Mekhi Thomas of New Port Richey, FL. While visiting in July, the family was at a restaurant and when everyone heard why they were in the area, “they all just said so many nice things about the university.” Zachary Conlon, who is majoring in sports business and communication, chose Saint Leo for a common reason — to get out of the cold. Dad B.T. Conlon said that while Zachary was making college visits in the north, his son noted, “there was no way I’d get out of bed in the morning in the cold.”“Out of all the warm places he visited, he said this feels like home,” Christine Conlon added. Christine and B.T. Conlon will be flying back to New Hampshire on Friday. “I wanted to stay but I was told to leave,” Christine said laughing. 800+ Saint Leo Students Move onto Campus August 22 Roommates and best friends Hattie Robertson and Lexus Ottum from Mount Dora, FL, are ready for the school year to begin. “I’m excited about the classes and meeting all my professors,” said Robertson, who is majoring in medical humanities-health humanities. Ottum, who is pursuing a degree in elementary education, said she’s really looking forward to the course Evaluating Global Warming, one of the science offerings in University Explorations, Saint Leo’s general education program, which gives students a well-rounded foundation in arts and sciences. “I’m interested in learning about the world that is around us,” Ottum said. Choosing Saint Leo University was easy for Evan Bagniuk, who is majoring in business administration. It was close to home for Bagniuk, who is from nearby Land O’ Lakes, FL, and he and his family attend Mass at Saint Leo Abbey Church. “It’s close, and I just love the campus,” he said while his dad, Stan Bagniuk spoke with Dr. Jen Shaw, vice president of Student Affairs. “I’m looking forward to getting to know people and the campus.” Bagniuk has good company as 64 percent of the new students are from Florida. For Aubrey Wallace of Plant City, FL, Saint Leo University is a family affair with her grandfather Freddie Armour as a proud alumnus. Armour earned a bachelor’s degree in management in 2017 and is pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree. Wallace, who is majoring in criminal justice-homeland security was embraced in hugs by her mom, Maria Boyd along with her grandparents Jovannie and Freddie Armour. “She doesn’t want to let go,” Freddie said of Boyd as she gave Wallace a final hug. Advice for New Saint Leo Lions “Our faculty and staff have been preparing for our students’ arrival on campus and working to make Saint Leo University feel like home and a place of belonging,” said Dr. Ed Dadez, university president. He advised students to take advantage of the resources and opportunities available to them including the offices of Student Success, Career Services, and Counseling Services. He encouraged them to participate in the many activities offered by the university. “Don’t forget that this community is here to help you be your best self and pursue a greater purpose in life,” Dadez added. Tamar Olguin Alzate, a junior and the Student Government Union (SGU) president, echoed the university president’s “get involved” message. “My advice to new students is don't feel bad about asking questions,” she said. “Ask as many questions as possible, whether in class or exploring campus. It's the best way to learn and get comfortable. Saint Leo gives you all the tools you need to be successful, the community is welcoming and supportive, and there's always someone willing to help.” Read the full article

[ledenews]

Santorine: Nothing Personal? It’s Just Business?

One of the things I’ve wanted for all of our children is for them to have the experience of working with a really great boss. It’s quite literally life-changing. Maybe “boss” isn’t the right term. I think it’s more like “coach.” “Leader.” Gifted bosses lead with you at their side, and don’t beat you with the organizational chart. Truly great bosses inspire those around them, and they tend to attract the very best talent. People want to work for a gifted boss. They want to produce 110% and do everything they can to further their common purpose. Truly gifted bosses don’t hire. They recruit. They realize they are “center stage” with the spotlight on them every minute, and they know every word they utter is important, and weigh every syllable and its effect on all present. "Bring your passion. Bring your people. Bring your best. Make it intensely personal." They never lead from anger, and they observe with eyes that encourage. More importantly, they add value. Passion, too. I don’t know if or how much of this can be taught, and I don’t know if any of our elite universities have a curriculum that produces inspired leaders, but when you’re working with a gifted boss, you know it, and you learn. Your gifted boss wants you to have his job, and he expects you to step up and demonstrate to everyone that you are up to the task. I’ve used clips from “This Is It!”, a documentary about Michael Jackson, in management classes I’ve taught. There is a scene of him reviewing choreography and working with talented dancers and musicians. He was completely brilliant with what he was doing. Time after time, he would say “pretty good,” all the while complimenting the team but while also relentlessly pressing for something better. When it was obvious that his team, his people, had delivered, he exclaimed “This Is IT!” Getting there he was subtly positive. When it was right, he liberally spread the credit around. It was true leadership coupled with extreme passion. Gifted bosses tend to attract people like flypaper, and the good ones stay with the gifted boss until it is their time to lead, and then they do - with their former boss’s blessing and good wishes. Great bosses relentlessly pursue the creation of value. Much of that value is human capital. Conversely, I’ve watched really good people leave great companies where they were making wages that were spectacular, and where it was clear they had a path to the position of their dreams. But they were reporting to a bad boss. Bad bosses can be old school, or micro-managers, or narcissist who just knows “the beatings will continue until morale improves” is a viable strategy. People don’t leave jobs. People leave bad bosses. The same is true for organizations, from the Lions club to your local church. At some point, you’re going to get a placeholder in a position of authority - someone who has been faithful and has been “in line” and feels entitled to the position. And (shuffling of feet), well, it’s just a year, so they let him or her take the helm. Best case, you waste a year. Worst case, 50% of members leave, and 100% of the members realize they are going to have to rebuild the entire organization once “just a year” is over. You’re not likely to get those fifty percenters back, either. Many of our traditional institutions are under huge stresses, and the only way they can continue to serve their community is by making changes. Change is not and will never be easy. It’s difficult, and it is for good reason. Change occurs when three things are present - inspired leadership, people and passion. There is a line that has been used in a number of motion pictures that I disdain - “Nothing personal; it’s just business.” If that’s what you think about anything you’re doing, you’re doing it wrong. If it’s not personal, please find something to do that is personal. Bring your passion. Bring your people. Bring your best. Make it intensely personal. Remember, no matter where you are in any organization, you are in the people business. And yes, it’s that personal. Read the full article

[newsworld-nw]

Heisman Trophy odds for 2023: JJ McCarthy, Marvin Harrison Jr. jump ahead of the game

As if the upcoming matchup between No. 2 Michigan and No. 3 Ohio State wanted extra drama between the Massive Ten rivals, the Heisman Trophy could possibly be at stake. Heading into Week 9, Michigan's JJ McCarthy is taken into account the front-runner for the award. Based on the newest odds from BetMGM.com. McCarthy is now at +240. MORE: How Marvin Harrison Jr. earned a brand new nickname from Fox Are McCarthy and Harrison Sensible Picks for the Heisman Trophy? Search for this dialog to accentuate for the November 25 matchup

JJ McCarthy Heisman Trophy Odds

Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh — who completed third in Heisman Trophy voting in 1986 — continues to have the very best reward for McCarthy. "JJ has proven to be on his strategy to changing into the perfect quarterback in Michigan historical past," Harbaugh mentioned. "I believe going ahead, JJ would be the quarterback that every one future quarterbacks are in comparison with." McCarthy is coming off his greatest sport of the season. He completed 21 of 27 for 287 yards and 4 TDs in a 49-0 rout of in-state rival Michigan State. McCarthy ranks second within the FBS in passer effectivity (199.2). He averaged 219.6 yards with 11 TDs and no interceptions in Massive Ten play. These stats aren't groundbreaking, however McCarthy has combined in 168 dashing yards and three TDs. He is a playmaker, and after a bye week Michigan could have Purdue, No. 10 Penn State, Maryland and No. 3 Ohio State. MORE: What ought to Michigan's punishment be if convicted?

Marvin Harrison Heisman Trophy Odds

Harrison is coming off a dominant efficiency in opposition to the Nittany Lions. Had 11 catches on 16 targets for 162 yards and a landing, together with a game-sealing 18-yard rating on a crossing route. Ohio State coach Ryan Day continues to reward the junior receiver for his work ethic. "The requirements that he set right here, his work ethic and what he meant to the state of Ohio, it is about leaving a legacy behind," Day mentioned after Penn State. "We're midway by means of the season, so I am not going there but, however he is on his manner. I am happy with him." Harrison is on a roll. He has three straight 100-yard video games and has 5 100-yard video games this season regardless of a 56.8% catch proportion with first-year starter Kyle McCord. Has 13 receivers with no less than 700 receiving yards. Harrison is tied with Rome Odung amongst that bunch with 18.2 yards per catch. Harrison is the perfect deep-threat receiver in school soccer, and his acrobatic catches are unbelievable. He has an opportunity to affix Alabama's DeVonta Smith (2020) because the second receiver to win the Heisman Trophy within the final 4 years. In fact, it would take an enormous efficiency in opposition to Michigan. Harrison had seven catches for 120 yards and a TD in final 12 months's sport. Extra: Bowl Conjecture | Rating of all 133 groups Week 9 Peak

Present Heisman Trophy Odds

Listed here are the present Heisman Trophy odds in keeping with BetMGM.com. A complete of seven gamers have Heisman odds of +2000 or higher heading into Week 7: the participant the college ODDS JJ McCarthy Michigan +240 Michael Penix Jr Washington +300 Jayden Daniels LSU +375 Jordan Travis State of Florida +800 Dillon Gabriel Oklahoma +1200 Bo Nix Oregon +2000 Marvin Harrison Jr Ohio State +2000

Prime Heisman Trophy Candidate

McCarthy and Harrison are amongst seven candidates with odds of +2000 or higher. Here is a take a look at the opposite 5 contenders for the Heisman Trophy. All of those gamers are switch quarterbacks. Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington (+300) 2023 Statistics: 2,576 passing yards, 70.8%, 20 TDs, 5 INTs The Pennix are actually in second place after rallying to a 15-7 win over Arizona State in Week 8. Penix had 275 passing yards and two interceptions and one fumble. Based on Professional Soccer Focus, Penix has a 49.1% completion proportion when underneath stress. He nonetheless has an upcoming stretch in opposition to USC, Utah and Oregon State. There may be loads of time to maneuver again up. Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU (+375) 2023 Statistics: 2,573 passing yards, 73.1%, 25 TDs, 3 INTs Daniels is within the combine. He leads the FBS in complete offense (386.8 ypg.). He has 521 dashing yards at 5.7 yards per carry with 5 TDs. Daniels' inventory will not change this week with the Tigers on a bye week, however he'll get his greatest stage in opposition to Alabama in Week 9. Daniels had 182 passing yards, 95 dashing yards, three complete TDs and threw the profitable 2-point conversion. In final 12 months's 32-31 win over the Crimson Tide. Jordan Travis, QB, Florida State (+800) 2023 Statistics: 1,750 passing yards, 65.1%, 15 TDs, 2 INTs Travis was the main rusher within the preseason and ranks within the high 5 after main Florida State to wins over LSU, Clemson and Duke. Travis averaged 299.7 passing yards with eight TDs and two interceptions in these video games. At this level he was at his greatest. Dillon Gabriel, QB, Oklahoma (+1200) 2023 Statistics: 2,131 passing yards, 71.2%, 19 TDs, 3 INTs Gabriel is the one hope for a Heisman winner from the Massive 12, particularly now that Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers is out indefinitely with a shoulder sprain. Gabriel has added 230 dashing yards and 5 TDs, and the Sooners are squarely within the CFP combine. He picked the usual on this bunch. Bo Nix, QB, Oregon (+2000) 2023 Statistics: 2,089 passing yards, 78.4%, 19 TDs, 1 INT The Knicks nonetheless lead the FBS in completion proportion and are ninth in complete offense (313.4), however he does not should be a menace within the operating sport for the Geese. Oregon is a tricky take a look at in Utah in Week 9, and a win there would enhance the Knicks.

Has a Michigan QB ever gained the Heisman Trophy?

Two Michigan quarterbacks completed third in Heisman Trophy voting, an inventory that features Rick Leach (1978) and Jim Harbaugh (1986). Halfback Tom Harmon (1940), receiver Desmond Howard (1991) and defensive again Charles Woodson (1997) are Michigan's three Heisman Trophy winners. Tom Brady didn't end within the high 10 in 1999.

Who's Ohio State's final Heisman Trophy winner?

The Buckeyes' final Heisman winner was quarterback Troy Smith (2006) in 2006. Ohio State has had seven Heisman Trophy winners, together with two-time winner Archie Griffin (1974-75). Les Horvath (1944), Vic Janowicz (1950), Howard Cassady (1955) and Eddie George (1995) additionally gained the Heisman Trophy for the Buckeyes.

When is the Heisman Trophy Ceremony?

The Heisman Trophy will probably be awarded on December 9, one week after the convention championship video games. The occasion will probably be telecasted hour-long program on ESPN. #Heisman #Trophy #odds #McCarthy #Marvin #Harrison #bounce #forward #sport Read the full article

[starkslawyer]

"Yes, I remember when I heard you were coming to stay in Highgarden with Margaery and my grandmother. I was off in Dorne that summer. Margaery has quite a fondness of you. She was quite thrilled to hear that we were to be married." He smiled softly at her. He couldn't wait to leave King's Landing. The Red Keep was beautiful but everything else around it was dirty and unsavory. It wasn't at all like Highgarden with the warmth and sunshine and fresh flowers in bloom. He was very excited to take Kaera away from this place to keep her safe from her family. "You will love it there. The architects and artists have already begun working on your chambers. I proposed them to craft a symbol of a lion and rose entwined together for the joint of our two houses. It'll be seen through the castle and engraved on your royal coach. That is ... if that pleases you?" He asked not knowing if she rather just keep the Lannister lion.

Olyver looked into her eyes once he took her hand in his. His thumb brushed along her soft skin. "You have the most beautiful eyes, Lady Kaera..." His voice just above a whisper as he allowed himself to get lost in the sea of lillac-blue. As she told him about her love to learn he nodded. There had been a time where all Olyver wanted was a woman with good looks and a pleasurable body but those days were over for him. He much rather have a well read woman who was smart and could make her own choices. However, he seemed to win draw with Kaera because she was both. Her dress was full and covered most of her but he could imagine what she looked like beneath it. "I don't think that's boring at all. I, too, am rather a well-learned man. I love to study laws and texts of old. I am interested in the cultures of Esso. So no, I don't think that's boring at all, my lady...In fact, I will give you what ever resources you'd like to keep learning." He moved his hand up beneath her chin, tilting her head up to that their eyes were locked on each other. He moved his lips closer to hers. "And now I'm going to kiss you because I cannot wait any longer." He whispered before he pressed his mouth to hers, kissing her softly.

She smiled when he commented about the view from her veranda. "It is beautiful here but I miss Casterly and Lannisport. I've never been one for King's Landing. In truth she hated being around her sister. There was no one that she despised more and now that her brother was the hand of the king, her evil nephew, she couldn't wait to go anywhere. Her eyes widened when he mentioned Highgarden. "I doubt if you remember me because I was so young then and you were working on getting knighted but I spent a summer there with your grandmother, Lady Olena. She is quite close friends with my father, or as much as anyone could be and I think she had the match in mind back then because I did spend the entire summer with her and your sister, Margaery. It is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen and I've been to Dorne to see Sunspear and I much prefer the beautiful flowers of Highgarden."

When his hand touched his, she looked down with her lilac tinted blue eyes. She didn't have her families green eyes, she had her mother's lilac ones, Targaryen eyes but everyone knew not to speak on who her mother was, knowing she was King Ares little sister, being married to Tywin only long enough to have Kaera and pass away in childbirth. It was what made Kaera such a desired Lady in court and in truth, she'd hoped that Olyver would be who her father would choose.

Kaera smiled at his touch, her cheeks flushing. "I do believe that you will be easy to love as well, Lord Olyver. You have a very easy nature about you but someone who is dedicated and strong. I do believe I love how read you are as well. It makes me happy to know that you appreciate someone who enjoys learning. I had a fear of my husband making me stop learning. Did I tell you that I can even speak High Valyrian now. I wanted to read texts that were in that language and so my father hired a Septa from Lys and she has taught me how to speak and read." Once more her cheeks turned bright read and she looked down. "You must think I"m a terribl bore to find learning High Valyrian so exciting."