#and they would hold their mics for them to come forward and sings and it was the cutest sweetest thing...

[babieken]

Just finished watching yesterday's concert...

[be4chywritez]

Juno | max verstappen

max verstappen x singer!reader

request: I have so many short & sweet videos on my fyp right now. I can’t stop thinking about singer!reader announcing her f1 bf by arresting him and dedicating Juno to him like Sabrina does at her concerts. The fans would go wild!!! I’m desperate for this fic

beachy’s masterlist🐚

You quickly run towards your mark, adjusting your hair just as the lights dim. The moment Dumb and Poetic ends, you flash a smile, perfectly timed with the spotlight snapping back on.

“That was probably one of the saddest songs I’ve ever written,” you spoke into the mic, slowly pacing the stage. Your eyes sweep the crowd, and then they land on him. Max. He’s standing there with his pink VIP pass, wearing that blue shirt you love on him—the one you practically begged him to wear.When his gaze meets yours, he sends a shy wave, and you can’t help the giddy smile that pulls at your lips.

“Anyways,” you drawl, tearing your gaze from him and turning towards the other side of the stage. “I just want to thank you all for coming tonight!” The crowd roars in response, and you revel in the energy for a moment before heading back to where Max is standing, your steps slower, more deliberate now.

You stop right in front of his section, heart thumping with a spontaneous idea. The kind of idea that makes your pulse race in the best way.

“Oh my god, girls, come quick!” you exclaim, beckoning toward your backup dancers, “I just saw my future husband, and I need you guys!”

The crowd screams, excitement rippling through them as they try to figure out who you’re talking about. Jaz and Nat, your backup dancers, strut over to you, Jaz already twirling the pink fuzzy handcuffs in her hand, playing right along.

You dramatically point at Max, your grin widening as you watch the tips of his ears turn red. “Look at him right there!” you say, throwing a glance over your shoulder at Jaz and Nat, who are doing their best to hide their shocked—and entertained—expressions.

“Oh my God,” you breathe out, fanning yourself as the crowd’s cheers grow louder. Max’s cheeks are flushed now, and you drink in the sight, loving how flustered he is under the attention.

“Sir, you are under arrest for being too hot,” you say, biting your lip and giggling as the red and blue lights flash across the stage. The audience goes wild.

You lean forward a little, locking eyes with Max again. “What’s your name?” you ask playfully, knowing full well who he is. The big screen switches to the crowd, scanning for your chosen “arrestee,” building up the suspense.

Max cups his hands around his mouth, yelling back at you, “Max!”

“Max!” you shout back, playing it up, your excitement making the crowd scream even louder. The camera zooms in on his face, and the arena erupts in cheers and claps as the fans finally catch on to who exactly you’re teasing.

“Max what?” you ask, pointing the mic in his direction. He rolls his eyes, a smile tugging at his lips, before shouting, “Verstappen!”

You laugh, a little giddy yourself, before dramatically exclaiming, “Y/n Verstappen!” You hold your hand up, examining your ring finger as if imagining the wedding band already there. The fans are beside themselves, giggling along with you.

“I like that name,” you say to Jaz and Nat, who are laughing along with the bit. “I’m thinking so many dirty things right now. The polo, the hair, the eyes, the nose—oh!” With a dramatic gasp, you pretend to fumble with your outfit as your tear-away maxi skirt drops to the floor. “Oh my gosh, how embarrassing! My clothes are falling off for you, Max!”

Jaz hands you the pink fuzzy handcuffs, and you saunter toward the edge of the stage, crouching down to hand them to a security guard, who passes them to Max. “These are for you, Maxie baby,” you say in your most sultry voice, earning even louder screams from the crowd.

You stand back up, flipping your hair back over your shoulder. “Monaco, help me sing this song for my Max baby!” you scream into the mic, the intro to Juno beginning to play in your ears, and the crowd’s energy is at an all-time high as you prepare to serenade him.

As Juno reaches the pre-chorus, you lock eyes with Max again, the playful smirk never leaving your lips. You saunter across the stage, your body moving in sync with the sultry beat, feeling the heat of his gaze on you.

"You make me wanna make you fall in love..." you sing, dragging out the words as the crowd sings along, but you only have eyes for Max now.

Your lips curl into a wicked grin as you hit the next line, "Wanna try out some freaky positions?" You hold the mic in one hand while sliding into a teasing pose, exaggerating every movement, making sure Max doesn't miss a thing. 

His eyes widen, and though he tries to keep it cool, you can see the flush creeping up his neck. The crowd screams, but it's just background noise now.

When you hit, "Have you ever tried this one?" you drop into an unmistakably suggestive pose, making sure to hold eye contact with Max, biting your lip playfully.

The way his mouth twitches, like he's fighting back a smile—or something more— just fuels you further.

The crowd is eating it up, but all you care about is his reaction. You wink at him, standing up slowly, as the song continues, your voice dripping with flirtation as you finish the verse.

The lights begin to dim as the final chords of Juno play out, and you blow Max a final kiss before stepping off the platform. You can feel his eyes still on you, even as the roar of the crowd fades behind you.

“Monaco there is a lot more where that came from!” you tease going on to your next song.

Backstage, the energy is electric, but all you can think about is getting back to Max. You spot him the moment you step off the stage, standing in the shadows near your dressing room, waiting for you. The second your eyes meet, the playful, teasing vibe of the performance is gone, replaced by something hotter, heavier.

"You were something else out there," Max says, his voice low, but you can hear the smile in it.

"Oh, you liked that, huh?" you tease, stepping closer to him, still on the high from the show. "You looked a little flustered out there, Maxie."

He rolls his eyes, but there's a blush coloring his cheeks as he tugs you toward him. "I think you enjoyed teasing me a little too much."

"I can't help it. You make it so easy." Your voice drops to a whisper as you slide your hands up his chest, your body still buzzing with energy. "Besides, I think you liked it."

Max smirks, his hands settling on your hips as he pulls you even closer. "Maybe," he says, his voice low and teasing. "But you owe me for putting me through that."

You grin, wrapping your arms around his neck.

 "Oh, I plan to make it up to you," you whisper, leaning in close.  

"Starting now." And with that, you close the distance, the playful tension from the stage melting into something more intimate as your lips meet his.

[sweatyracoon]

After Party

Summary: After his performance of Red Lights, he caught you, one of his staff, in his dress room. You were simply changing the question, like always, but he felt a rush of confidence he didn’t knew he had, and confessed.

Warnings: Smut! MDNI! Soft!Dom!Reader, pet names(puppy, baby), sex drunk!Seungmin, Sub!Seungmin, oral(m), teasing

Ever since he met you three years ago after his debut, you both became good friends. You were both the same age, and enjoyed the same things. Even your habits were similar.

The staff called you, The Puppies, and have thought of you both as long lost siblings. You thought it was funny, but Seungmin always flushed at the teasing comments. He had grown attracted to you, slowly, but it was there. He was worried you didn’t feel the same way, seeing as you were both perceived as sister and brother. He went with it, not wanting to explain it.

For this show, they were performing a song made by Chan and Hyunjin called Red Lights. Seungmin fell in love when he first heard it, attracted to the sexiness. He seemed very innocent at times, and his looks didn’t help, but he truly was anything but.

The way he imagined you at night, or when he was alone in his hotel room. The sounds he would make, your name falling from his lips and he stroked himself to the thought of you.

He was ashamed. His closest friend, someone who sees him as a brother. Why did god make him feel like this?

He was getting ready, excited for the concept. The group tried to keep the shows pg, but this one, he shook with anticipation. He knew you were watching them on the monitors. You knew about the song, but didn’t know about the set up.

When he was finally on stage, crouched, he let himself loosen, resting his face into a scowl. It didn’t last long, but he didn’t want to look innocent either. He wanted to be sexy.

For you.

The moment he brought the collar around his neck, he felt something he had never felt before. It was so strong that he nearly stopped singing entirely. But he didn’t. He stepped forward a bit more than the others, letting it tighten around his windpipe. He groaned lightly, and, it thankfully didn’t catch on the mic feed.

He knew what he would be buying once he got home.

The show was over before he wanted it to be, but he had more songs to perform, not giving him much time to think. He still felt the phantom of the thin collar hanging on his neck, trying to hold it for as long as he could.

What if he wore a collar, you holding the leash, tugging it aggressively towards you, a whimper escaping from his throat. His eyes lolled at the thought, his breathing becoming heavy. Thank goodness they were on their last song. He couldn’t stand it if he got a boner on stage. Imagine all of the pictures that would be used against him.

Finally, he was practically running off stage towards his changing room, leaving the others to celebrate on their own.

You were the only thing that filled his mind as he rushed towards his safe space, thinking about how you would make him sit on all fours with a single tug on the lead. How you would control his pace as he ate you out by wrapping the leash around your wrists, holding him in place.

His beer was now uncomfortable, his tight leather pants not helping.

He finally made it into the room, locking it behind him. He breathed out in relief, starting to unbutton his pants. He unzipped the zipper before he heard your voice.

“You were amazing, Minnie! The idea for red lights! Mwuah! Perfection,” You said with a chefs kiss, standing from your sitting position.

Seungmin turned towards your voice, his hands and wrists covering his growing bulge. “What are you doing in here?” He said, making your brow raise.

“I’m praising my best friend? Was I not supposed to?” You asked, slightly bewildered. He would always come and hug you after a performance. What’s different this time?

“I need to get dressed first, uh…”He looked away shyly. “My pants ripped,” he lied, hoping you would leave him be for a little while. He just needed some time to get rid of his problem.

“Oh! Where? I can sow it, no problem,” you were already in front of him, hands reaching towards his own. This was new territory for you both, but you didn’t seem fazed at all. Seungmin didn’t realize what you were doing until he felt your hands, not reacting quick enough to stop you from pulling them away.

“Oh…” Was all you said, looking at your friends boner.

Seungmin snapped his gaze to where you were looking, moving his hands back in front of him. “Oh my god, I’m so sorry, y/n!” He quickly whispered, taking a few steps back. Why was he like this?

“For what?” You asked, confused. It was natural, so why would he apologize to you?

“Aren’t I like…your brother? Isn’t that weird? Brothers and sisters seeing each others…y’know?” Seungmin knew he was rambling, making you smile. He was nervous.

“Are we siblings? Last I checked I thought we were just best friends. I don’t find it awkward. Do you?” You stepped closer to him.

“Uh…” He looked anywhere but you.

“Do you want me to leave?” Your voice lowered, sultry and seductive, making him twitch in his boxers. His pants still hugged his waist, open in the front.

You smiled, cupping his face. “What’s got you so worked up, Minnie?” Your nose nearly touching his, and you felt his ragged breaths on your face.

“The collar…Red Lights…” He could barely speak. His breathing was now too heavy to form actual sentences. His brain started to fog as he fell into submission.

“Ah…Puppy like wearing a collar?” You teased, earning a small moan from the boy in front of you. It shocked you. How a simple pet name that he’s called everyday could evoke such an intimate reaction. “Wanna free your little friend down there, puppy? It looks like it needs attention,”

You stepped back after seeing him nod, and watched as he slowly took off his pants. You didn’t move, signaling that you wanted his shirt off too. He pulled it off, revealing the abs you didn’t know he had, your core clenching around nothing.

“Such a pretty puppy, yeah? Get on the floor, baby,” You cooed, undressing yourself as he got on the carpet. He watched you intently, his eyes widened at the sight of your lace set, the color of sand.

You got on your knees, caging his legs with your own. His face was enough to get you off, his eyes blown and glossy, and his mouth hung wide, drool leaking from the corner, his braces glistening with spit.

“Wanna kiss you…” He panted, moving his arms around your waist. You complied, starting this kiss off slowly.

You teased his lips with light kisses, slowly turning into hard ones, desperately moans emitting from him. He grabbed you harder, making you gasp. He took that chance to slip his tongue in, battling yours for dominance. You won, eventually, earning a whine from him. You broke the kiss, a string of saliva connecting the two of you. When Seungmin saw it, his eyes rolled back, whimpering. You kissed down his jaw to his neck, sucking n the most sensitive spots you could find.

“Does puppy want a collar? Perhaps I could get you one…if you behave,” you playfully nipped at his Adam’s apple, feeling him shudder beneath you.

“Wanna be your puppy…wanna be yours,” He shut his eyes as you went lower, breathing faster.

“Shh…calm down, baby. Imma make you feel good, okay?” You said before licking him through his boxers. A loud moan escaped from him. He nodded at your words.

You smiled before pulling him out of his restraints, looking at his size. He was long. He wasn’t thick, but wasn’t thin either. Just by looking you could already tell that he wouldn’t fit in your mouth, so, you spit on your hand, the sound loud and dirty, and Seungmin loved it. You wrapped your lubricated hands around him, stroking slowly. His hips bucked into your touch as soon as he felt you.

“Puppy’s a little needy, huh?” You whisper, licking the tip.

“Please…m’so needy,” He was so far gone that all he could do was agree with you. You barely touched him, and he’s already no longer able to think. He would be embarrassed later.

You, however, found it hot. You felt you could do anything to him and he would let you. You felt your wetness in your panties.

You took him in your mouth, slowly pushing yourself down, and then back up again. His pants turned into whimpers at each bottom, loving the way you felt around him. He didn’t dare move his hands to your neck. He didn’t want to hurt you. But he also preferred to not be in control. It was better that way.

You quickened your pace, stroking what you couldn’t fit with your hand. He was full on moaning now, not holding back.

His beautiful vocals didn’t go unnoticed. You had once thought if he would sound as beautiful in bed as he did on the stage, and you now know, he sounds SO much better in bed. It was the only music you wanted to listen to from now until the rest of your days.

You pulled up from him, still stroking at the same pace. He looked at you through tear filled eyes.

“No!Please…nghnn…” His head fell back when you squeezed his cock, groaning at the sensation.

“Is puppy gonna come for me? Hmm? I bet puppy would be so pretty when he cums,” You said, feeling his cock twitch. He truly was your puppy.

“I’m gonna-“ A moan cut him off, and you knew he was close.

You smirked at him, making sure he saw it before lowering yourself back down, putting the tip on your flattened tongue. You watched his face scrunch, and, like a chain reaction, it seemed to lower down to his stomach, seeing his abs flex as he came in your mouth. This moan was the loudest yet, and it sounded like heaven to you.

His seed filled your cheeks, and you swallowed it hungrily, moaning at the taste of him. His stomach convulsed one last time before his breathing shallowed, his dick now limp in your hands. You pulled away, wiping the drool off your chin. You looked up at him, seeing his eyes shirt as he try’s to come back from his high.

You leaned forward, placing a soft kiss to his cheek. “You okay, Minnie?”

His eyes shot open, and he looked straight at you. “Y/n…” His eyes were so much like a puppies that you had to fight not to look away. They were so devastatingly beautiful.

“Yeah?” You were worried now, that you took things too far. He had called you his sister earlier, and doubt started creeping into your chest.

He took a deep breath before speaking his mind.

“I’m in love with you,” when you didn’t say anything, he kept going. “I have been for the past three years and I never knew how to bring it up because I didn’t want to ruin what we had, and-“

You broke him off with a heated kiss, making him groan into your lips. You both stayed like that for a while before you pulled away, smiling at how he chased your lips with his own.

“I love you too, Seungmin,”

You both kissed each other again, but before it could go anywhere, there was a knock at the dressing room door. It was Bangchan.

“Hey, Seungmin? You okay, bud? You’ve been in there for forty-five minutes. We’re going to the bar!”

You both pushed away from each other, giggling.

“Be out in a minute!”

[xxgoblin-dumplingxx]

i am so obsessed with how you write the poly relationship w wolverine and deadpool, i would love to see more!!!

"Come on Peanut, we're going out!" Wade declared, throwing him his jacket.

Logan groaned and took a drag off his cigar, exhaling slowly. He'd been looking forward to a night in. To some quiet. Wade had been going out with friends tonight, going to carouse and be obnoxious. Laura was busy. Altha was out... It was going to be bliss.

Absolute bliss.

And now that was shot to hell.

"Where are we going?"

"Karaoke," Wade said, "The sweet little angel baby who lives upstairs is going. And so are all her super hot friends."

"Christ," Logan groaned. Wade's sex drive made his look low. But. If you were going at least he'd have someone to talk to. You could talk intelligently about... a lot of shit. And your sense of humor was good.

"Just remember," Wade called over his shoulder, "No stabbing in front of the normies."

________________

"Su-i-cide. Su-i-cide. Su-i-cide."

The crowd took up Wade's chant and you rolled your eyes.

"Good fucking luck, My brain is like 90% song lyrics," you caution, sipping from the pint you'd been nursing.

"That's the price you gotta pay, Angel," Wade teased, fluttering non existant lashes, "if you wanna save Logi-bear from having to sing you gotta take all the songs I want."

"You get 3-"

"7" he countered.

"5, asshole"

"Done!" he said, jumping off the stool and going to put your songs in.

Logan looked at you and shook his head. Your friends had left to go dancing and you bowed out. And for the last two hours you'd been... theirs. "You don't have to do that," he said.

"The mob has spoken. Also, even if I sound like shit they're all drunk so. It's fine. Pretty sure Wade doesn't want to humiliate me. He just wants me to sing something."

He nodded, "Probably." Wade definitely didn't want you humiliated. He wanted you in their bed- Logan was on the fence about it. Something was... wrong with you. Fragile. And he didn't know if you could handle it, honestly. Or if they could handle you.

Your name is announced along with the song and you roll your eyes. "He would. He fucking would. I mentioned this ONE TIME." But you go, Taking the mic and casually giving Wade the finger as you step up and take your first breath. Only to start 'Holding out for a Hero'.

The line up gave you a headache.

'Holding out for a Hero' 'Baby Got Back' 'I'm the Only One' 'Work it' And then to cap the whole thing off 'Lucky' Honestly, either Wade didn't know how old you were or forgot that music tended to stick around for a good long while. But You did all 5, Blind with no time to prep and did your best to kill it. And hell if you didn't need water when you were done.

"Dick," you tell him, without any actual heat, "I told you-"

"And I bow to the queen," he said. "Logan, I'm in love!"

Logan snorted. "She can do better."

"See," you tell Wade, taking the water he offered and a chair gratefully, "someone knows how to charm a girl."

Wade clutched his chest and took own seat, "Angel baby, I'm hurt. We're a package deal. And I'll have you know I can be VERY charming."

"Mhmm."

"Help me out here, Peanut-"

"Oh no, this is all you. You wanna fuck the girl, you gotta do the work."

You pause, drink half way to your mouth and clear your throat, setting it down, "Pardon me?" You'd been operating under the assumption that this was all just banter. Harmless fun. Wade and Logan were together. Wade flirted with EVERYONE. Logan was a grumbly old man but he was a softy when he wanted to be. You liked them. You knew they liked you. But you didn't know it was LIKE that. At least for Wade.

"Look at her," Wade said "She's precious-"

Logan cleared his throat. You didn't smell aroused. And he could hear your heart racing. "Sorry, kid," he said. "I thought-"

"I-uh... Excuse me for a second?" You hop off your stool and grab your bag, weaving your way through the room to the ladies room. Taking a second to take a breath. To think. You lean on the sink and wonder if you've had too much to drink. But you know you haven't. And you know no one's drugged you. Wade's beat the shit out of people for doing that- and Logan would never. They're good guys. Not creeps. Certified good guys, really. So why- this is wild.

And it doesn't happen to girls like you.

People don't want you like that. Unless it's a weird fetish thing. Or they're hobosexual. Or some other reason. But they don't want you for you. No one ever does, at least not for long. But you like them. They're friends. Will they stay friends if you say no? If you say yes what happens? Do you even want to say yes? What the fuck is happening? There are a lot of thoughts in your head. Too many.

And when you make your way out of the Bathroom, going to duck outside to get a breath of fresh air, an unfamiliar chest stops you. "You did Pretty good tonight," the oily voice said.

"Thanks, Randy," you tell him, stepping back. The Karaoke creep. You all laugh at him. He uses cash advances at strip clubs and tucks in his polos. The most divorced man to have ever lived.

"Suicides are hard. They're not for everyone," he said, picking his teeth with a coke nail. "But for a retar-"

"Hey fuckface," Wade said, "that's not a nice word." He inserted himself deftly between you and the other man and leaned on the bar, "Didn't you ever learn not to say fucking slurs?"

"Wade," you tell him, "It's just Randy it's not that-"

"She's retarded and you're fuck ug-" A crack and a clang made you help and this time it was Logan standing there as Randy crumbled to the floor.

"And he has bad hair plugs," Wade said. "Only one of us has a problem. And he paid for his."

[cofay]

★ ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁.ᐟ➤ sleepy.

part3(previously)

A/n : I try to allow people to imagine themselves as the reader so I’ll try not to be descriptive with the hair or style but this is a fem reader!

˙✧˖°📷 ༘ ⋆｡˚

It’s Sunday you woke up bright and early got wash put on your favorite dress and did your hair as your getting ready you get a text from Bakugou

‘You ready yet?’ 3:20 p.m

‘Almost just let me do my makeup’ 3:20 p.m

‘Don’t do it’ 3:21 p.m

‘Y??😐’ 3:22 p.m

‘Because you look fine without it’ 3:22 p.m

‘Thanks…I still wanna wear makeup so I’ll do a natural look 4 u <3’

‘ 4 o clock outside.”

‘Byee’

Do you always talk to your friends this way saying you’ll do things just for them because if you did Bakugou would be pissed but he doesn’t mind you talking to him this way it makes him feel special that you’ll just tone your makeup down just for him? Gosh…it’s like he’s actually falling in love.

🫐

As you come outside right on the dot he eyes widen you look so…pretty actually fuck that you look beautiful. You walk up towards him smiling.

“Do you think I look pretty?” You look up at him practically resting your chin on his chest batting your eyes at him as you smile he tenses up his face getting red as he looks the other way and rest his arms on your shoulders pushing you back a bit

“You look fine.”

“So I’m not pretty??” You pout grabbing his wrist gently and placing his hand on your cheek. “Come on look at my pretty faceeee tell me I’m pretty” his face turns a even darker shade of pink that you didn’t know existed causing you to laugh pulling back from him you shove him slightly. “You know I’m joking right?”

“Bastard.” He grunts “Come on they’re probably waiting for us”

“Can I..um hold onto your arm again?”

“…fine” he holds his arm out for you to take and you cling onto it gladly walking with him making your way to the karaoke place.

🎤🎧🎶

As you guys show up you can already hear his friends outside of the room singing their hearts out it made you smile a bit as you enter the room Mina comes up to you and Bakugou

“Finallyyy!! Sit here next to me girlll” Mina practically drags you towards her and Bakugou sits close by but chills with Kirishima.

“Hi Mina, did you pick a song yet?”

“No I was waiting for you!!”

“What why?”

“Because we totally should spilt a song and sing together like I swear we’ll be a good duo” a faint smile appears on your lips

“Okay well do you want to look for one now?”

“Sure thing girl!”

As you guys look for a song Kirishima and Sero try to convince Bakugou to sing with them also while all this is going on my guy Denki is hitting them notes BABY!! anyways….

You and Mina end up picking the song ‘A night to remember by laufey and beabadoope’ you took bea’s parts while she took laufey’s you guys were giggling in the seat slapping your hands together until Kirishima handed you guys the mics you guys were like little kids telling each other to go up first.

You and Mina go up and the music starts to play you’re basically smiling at her as she sings her voice soothing she walks up to you spinning you around as you giggle and then you sing your parts

Bakugou looks at you endearingly it’s like he saw a whole new you, listening to your sweet soft voice and how you sing it’s like listening to angels. Your song is ended unfortunately for him and you and Mina sit down. You scoot closer to Bakugou tapping his shoulder.

“Are you going to sing?”

“I don’t sing.”

“Why I bet you have an amazing voice come on!” You beg

“No”

“Pleasee”

“No”

“Pleasee”

“Fine.”

Bakugou abruptly gets up and takes the mic off from the table picking the song ‘Cooler than me” by Ethan fields

I mean even though his voice may be rough and raw it sounds good with the type of song he’s singing right now he try’s to look straight forward but as he sung he couldn’t help but look at the cute smile that formed on your face.

✭∞∞∞∞🍒∞∞∞∞✭

As the night drags on you and Bakugou separate from the group walking down the sidewalk until you pass a convenience store

“Katsuki, can we stop by here really quick?”

“Okay.”

As you roam around the store Bakugou dragging his feet behind you, you grab a box of sparklers and a lighter also some cute headbands after you pay for it.You and his friends relocate meeting up at the park

This city light and the hanged lights around the poles on the sidewalk lit up the park ever so slightly it was cute like a perfect spot for a date. Even a proposal maybe you and Bakugou sit down in the grass as the others sit around you pull out the sparklers and the lighter.

“Let’s light these up it would be super fun.” You say with a big grin, Mina chimes in

“Oh my gosh!! Yes that would be fun!! Okay!” You hand a sparkler to each person along with a complementary headband.

“Katsuki come here” he scoffs sitting next to you and leans in closer so you can put it on. He rolls his eyes pulling the last one out the bag

“I’ll do yours” he places yours on your head rather gently his hands staying there for a little longer than he needed to be. Anyways you get up pulling out the lighter telling everyone to come around so you can light it up as you light the sparklers up Kirishima automatically starts chasing Denki with the sparkler as Mina giggles and joins in leaving you and Bakugou with each other.

He looks down at you staring at the sparkler with a smile that could be considered contagious. You turn to face him.

“Can we put ours together? It’ll make it bigger!”

“Sure..” he places his sparkler with yours making the light burn brightly.

“It’s so beautiful” you say softly

“You’re beautiful.” He says almost below a whisper but you heard him for sure. You look up at him shocked and flustered

“What?…”

“You’re beautiful.” He said it again with more clarity staring at you with a blank face the fire dies down and it just leaves you two illuminated by the city lights dimly lit.

“Y-you really mean that?”

“Yes.” You’re a full on mess at this point your face is so hot you don’t know what to say it’s when he leans in to kiss you when you’re brought back to reality.

A soft yet painful kiss his hand resting on your cheek as he pulls you in closer. His lips felt so soft and you could just sink into his touch his rough yet warm hands cupping your face. Gosh..you place your hands at the back of his neck kissing him back

Now Bakugou on the other hand he was so nervous he made sure to be extra gentle with you, just in case you didn’t want it. But when you kissed him back it was like his whole world was falling apart not in a bad way but in a good way like his harsher exterior was slowly crumbling.

PART5B0Y

@armeenix @sukunasbottomlefteyeball

[cornishkat]

All I Want - One Shot

Bob Floyd x F!Reader

Warnings - just fluff, fluff and more fluff for Christmas.

Summary: Allegedly Bob has been flirting with you but both of you being idiots it takes Phoenix to give you both a little push.

“You do realise he is flirting with you”.

You almost choked on your drink as you stared incredulously at Phoenix who was sat across the table from you.

“Don’t be so ridiculous, he is not, why on earth would he be flirting with me”.

Making a dramatic sigh Phoenix put her head in her hands and shook it,

“Are you kidding me, he is crazy about you and that is him flirting.  And I know that you feel the same way about him so don’t even try to deny it to me”.

“How I feel about him is irrelevant, he is not interested, and he is not flirting with me”

As Phoenix opened her mouth in protest but Bob came back from the bar with drinks and sat down with you both.  You hadn’t lied to Phoenix about how you felt about him but there was no point in talking about it with her, she was convinced he liked you and just wanted the two of you to admit your feelings and get together.  But as you looked across at him now, smiling while wearing a truly awful Christmas jumper.  He turned his eyes to meet yours as he felt you watching him and his smiled widen.  Did he like you, was Phoenix right had he been flirting with you when you just thought he was being friendly.  As you felt heat spread through your cheeks you looked away, focusing your eyes on your drink in your hands.

“Right time for some singing, I hope you have all got your songs in.  It is time to get Christmas started”.

“Phoenix no one needs to hear me sing, please do not inflict that on them”.

“Bob, I gave you plenty of warning you knew there would be Christmas karaoke.  Y/N/N have you got your song in?”

“Not happening Nix, can’t we just get Rooster to play some songs on the piano and all sing along”.

No, we agreed on Christmas Karaoke, I tell you what if you sing Y/N/N I will let Bob off the hook”.

Bob looked at you pleadingly with his big blue eyes,

“Please Y/N/N”

“You owe me big time Floyd”.

“Anything you want, just please don’t make me have to get up there”.

Shaking your head, you turned to Phoenix to see a smug grin on her face,

“Not a word, let’s get this over with before Hangman sings another song”.

You watched Phoenix go to wrestle the mic off Hangman, taking a deep breath and shook your head at Bob.

“Thank you for this, I mean it anything you want Y/N/N”.

“It is a good job I like you Bob and I will hold you to that”.

Phoenix was bouncing up and down and grinning as you joined her, and she handed you the mic.

“OK song is ready to go”.

“What have you put on, I thought at least you would let me pick my own song” “Believe me what I have picked is perfect”.

And with that she bounced back to the table and sat next to Bob, as the music began to play.  You smiled and shook your head as you recognised the music and realised exactly what Phoenix was up too.  But there was no backing out of it now, so taking a deep breath you began to sing.

I don't want a lot for Christmas There is just one thing I need I don't care about the presents underneath the Christmas tree I just want you for my own More than you could ever know Make my wish come true All I want for Christmas is you

As you sang you made eye contact with Bob, his eyes held yours and widened as he realised what you were singing.  Even with Phoenix digging him in the ribs and prodding at him he never broke the stare.

I just want you for my own More than you could ever know Make my wish come true All I want for Christmas is you You, baby

Stepping forward you reached out your arm and pointed at Bob and watched as a blush spread through his cheeks but still, he didn’t look away from you.  Well even Bob could not be in any doubt that you were singing just for him, it was up to him now and if he didn’t do anything about it you could always try pass it off as a joke even if it would hurt like hell.

'Cause I just want you here tonight Holding on to me so tight What more can I do? Oh, baby, all I want for Christmas is you You, baby

The rest of the team were clapping and cheering as you finished the song and lowered your gaze before placing the mic down.  Blushing slightly, you walked back and grabbed your drinking glancing at Bob from under your lashes.

“You were amazing, told you the song was perfect”.

“No idea what you are talking about but isn’t about time you got up there seeing as you have bullied everyone else into it”.

“I’m going, but I’m not sure how I am meant to follow that”.

Phoenix heading up to sing meant you and Bob were left alone at the table,

“Y/N/N you were unbelievable, you voice is beautiful”.

“Flattery will get you nowhere Bob, let’s talk about you saying you would do anything I wanted if I got you off the hook”.

You could see him swallow hard as he started to blush again, it made you smile, it was so much fun flustering him.  

“I meant it, anything you want.  What do you want Y/N/N”?

“Did I not make that obvious in my song?”

“I didn’t want to presume, and I never thought you liked me”.

“How could I not Bob, so anything I want?”

“Anything you want”.

Taking his hand, you led him across the bar, so you were stood next to the piano, he looked at you slightly confused as you stood in front of him.  Smiling you raised your eyes up above your heads at a large sprig of mistletoe.  Bob nervously licked his lips and slowly stepped into you, dipping his head and gently lifting your chin.  He was giving you every opportunity to stop him if you wanted to, rising onto to your tiptoes you rested your palms against his chest and pressed your lips to his.  It was soft and sensuous, and you placed your hand on his neck to pull him closer to you, as he deepened the kiss it took your breath away and you had to eventually break apart to catch your breath.

“Wow, I really wasn’t expecting that”.

“Y/N/N please tell me you mean that in a good way, because I really want to do a lot more of that”.

“Oh, I mean it in a very good way, and I really want to do some more of that too”.

You saw relief wash over his features as he rested his forehead on yours,

“So, what now?”

“Take me home Bob”.

“Yes Ma’am”

You almost managed to make it out of the Hard Deck unnoticed but just as Bob opened the door for you, you heard Phoenix's voice from across the bar.

“About time, I told you I was right”.

Blowing a kiss at her you stepped out into the evening air with Bob’s hand in yours.

[slippinninque]

🎤Songbird's Blues🐦

Shigeru Kimura x BlackFemReader

In which your cry is heard and admired.

warnings: none much, cursing, fluff, heartbroken!reader, long fic, prt 1

"God, what a racket that one is making..."

Shigeru didn't even answer as he took in the foreigner pouring her heart into every empty glass in the bar.

He supposed that it was only right for Saturday night. The young and heartbroken often frequented this little bar he'd meet his old friend at.

Over the years it got better with a renovation and then aged again, a variety of memories tucked between seasons and familiar faces.

Now he frequented to check in Kage, who's just entered retirement. Shigeru still kept his distance after his revenge, yes, but he could never turn away from his old friend. Who clearly needed more help acclimating than he originally thought.

Shigeru was teaching him, it was all in the little things. Taking your grandson to lunch, meeting your son for dinner, checking in on a friend over drinks.

Though Shigeru still proved to be a bigger fan of the karaoke machine that was installed a year prior than Kage.

"Ah, they're having barbeque tonight! Always goes good with beer, y'know!"

Kage chattered on happily as he lit his 2nd cigarette of the nigh tand Shigeru was glad to see his friend in better spirits than when he called earlier in the evening. His eyes wandered back to the stage as Kage flagged down a waitress.

She was pretty, very drunk and clearly heartbroken. The microphone stand was the only shoulder she had in the world from how she rambled on about finding a good song.

From this part of town, Shigeru would bet he and Kage were the only two who could understand her as she rambled on I'm English.

"You guys have a nice line up, I-I know alooot of songs but..." to "The Wakage Goutaru album? Alright, ya'll are cooking!"

She rambled on long enough that the mocking stares turned more and more irate. From the back corner of the VIP booth, a hand waved with purpose. A waitress was already stalking the stage as she waited for the right moment to intervene.

Through it all, the foreigner had no clue as her stumbling brought her further into the overhead light--illuminating her sad face. Shigeru hoped she would at least get a few more tears out before she was chased off...

"There-there's a song I wanna sing but you don' have it...Mariah Carey..." A small belch into the mic led a series of words that made no sense to Shigeru but got a laugh out of Kage.

/Each day of my life

I'm filled with all the joy I could find

You know that I

I'm not the desperate type /

Her voice swelled, loud and aching as she recalled the song. The waitress lingered before shrugging and returned to her patrons who now looked at the woman on stage with more curiosity. than annoyance.

Shigeru found himself leaning forward himself enraptured by her expression. He has never heard such a voice.

/ If there's one spark of hope

Left in my grasp

I'll hold it with both hands

It's worth the risk of burning

To have a second chance /

She started crying and when she wiped her face, the mic muffled and whined with a little feedback. It wasn't enough to dampen her, though as she put a balled fist to her heart,

/ No, no, no, no, no, no, I need you, baby

I still believe that we can be together

Whoa, oh, no, no, no, ooh

If we believe that true love never has to end

Then we must know that we will love again, mmm

Ohh /

She swayed on her feet as she appealed to blinding lights when there was a burst of commotion from the front of the bar.

"She's here! I found her!"

A trio of young adults--two men and a woman. While the woman stopped to apologized to management that gathered to spectate. The two men went to the stage and tried to coax the woman down.

"I know, I know, c'mon and let me get you down!"

"Hey--Down here! Ah, don't cry like that--come on down and let's have another drink, huh?"

She moved away from them and continued to sing, her voice ringing clear and mournfully,

/ I still believe

Someday you and me

Will find ourselves in love again

I had a dream

Someday you and me

Will find ourselves in love again /

Kage said something at the same time one of the coaxing men had enough. He picked her up and put her over his shoulder. Much to the amusement of the spectators, she continued singing.

The speakers held true even after the group hustled out of the bar, still trying to calm down their friend against the wireless microphone's impressive range.

All he could see in his mind was her beautiful, tear streaked face. Turned to in Shigeru's direction, desperately wanting to be seen by someone.

/ I miss your love /

The last words before the microphone fully spirited away. Shigeru thought it was a shame that he had no name for the voice that lingered in his ear, but focused on his friend once more....

------------

Featured song:

💜ending notes💜: I couldn't get this out of my head thanks to Bullet Train's amazing soundtrack! Definitely have a prt 2 brewing! Tell me what you think with a comment and like!! Thank you for reading!!! Also, the spicy is coming soon swear lmao

✨taglist✨: @megamindsecretlair @sageispunk @astoldbyaja @miyuhpapayuh @kindofaintrovert

@ms-angiealsina @queenandkingofthedragons

[fandomgirlz01]

Just Like You 

Luke Patterson X Reader

Imagine on my fandom instagram?: No

Prompt?: No

Request?: No

Requested prompt?: No

Edited: Yes

Word count: 6,348

Ko-fi

Masterlist

Warnings here

You can listen to the story be read out loud here.

Post Date: November 30th 2022

Post Time: 11:36 pm

Summary: Reader is Alex’s sister, but she also happens to be Luke’s best friend. She’s the person he always runs to for anything. so it doesn’t really come as a shock to anyone that she died alongside them. Reader also really hates shoes so it’s a huge shock to the boys when they find her hanging out around home in the one thing she really hates: shoes. 

Please refrain from stealing our work, thank you and please enjoy!!

Y/n’s Pov: {December 12th, 1995} 

I stand off to the side of the stage by a table with my brother's and best friend’s towels in my hand. I wiggle my toes against the cold floor and smile at the soothing feeling. I hold my shoes with my socks stuffed in them and on my shoulder is my brother's fanny pack. 

I lightly drop my shoes down to the ground before pulling the fanny pack around to my front to get out a piece of gum. The boys start playing Now or Never, making me smile as I watch them dance around. I watch as they play and I see Luke look down at my feet before chuckling and shaking his head, then starting to sing. 

♪ Take off, last stop

Countdown 'til we blast open the top

Face first, full charge

Electric hammer to the heart ♪

I smile at the passion my brother and best friend have up on the stage. All the boys are sweating as they jump around and jam to the music. I continue to dance around and Luke keeps smiling when he looks at me, making my stomach flip every time. 

♪ Clocks move forward

But we don't get older, no

Kept on climbing

'Til our stars collided

And all the times we fell behind

Were just the keys to paradise ♪

Luke sings and as they come up onto the next part the others join in on the verse. I stop dancing for a moment to watch as Luke finishes his line so passionately. I smile at him as I wiggle my toes a bit. 

♪ Don't look down

'Cause we're still rising

Up right now

And even if we hit the ground ♪

They all end the last verse together and Luke sings the next part. He continues to smile at me like a lovesick puppy and I can’t help but do the same. I watch in awe as he sings like he’s singing to me and I find myself wishing he would be. 

Being best friends with the guy you're in love with and one of your brother's best friends is hard. Alex of course knows how I feel, heck, he pegged me liking Luke even before I realized it. But he’d never in a million years spill my secrets. 

♪ We'll still fly

Keep dreaming like we'll live forever

But live it like it's now or never ♪

I blush lightly when Luke winks at me as he sings his heart out. He smirks when he sees my reaction, then goes back to singing and I wiggle my feet some more as they continue with the song. 

♪ Hear the noise in my head

It's calling out like a voice I can't forget

One life, no regrets

Catch up, got no time to catch my breath ♪

Luke continues to look at me and I can’t help but to have an overwhelming feeling of love for him even though we are very much not a couple. I move over and take Alex’s fanny pack off my shoulder and grab my water off the stool I had set it on. As I move the floor is colder on my feet and I can’t help but smile as I wiggle my toes again. 

♪ And clocks move faster

'Cause it's all we're after now, oh ♪

Luke finishes the last line and nods at Reggie for him to come sing with him. Reggie goes over to him and they sing together into the mic, facing each other and I smile even more. 

♪ Won't stop climbing

'Cause this is our time, yeah ♪

Reggie and Luke sing the line together, then Luke smiles as he pushes Reggie back to his spot on the stage as he continues to sing into his mic alone. Luke turns and looks back at me with a huge grin. He shakes his head again, but never wavers in his singing. 

♪ When all the days felt black and white

Those were the best shades of my life ♪

When Luke is done with the last line, they all come in to sing the next part and I sway with the song. If we were in the garage, I’d be full on rocking out, but we aren’t, so I dial my dancing down a bit. 

♪ Don't look down

'Cause we're still rising

Up right now

And even if we hit the ground ♪

When they all finish, it goes back to Luke, who continues to have the most energy on the stage. I continue to lightly dance as my best friend and brother seem to push their passion on me. 

♪ We'll still fly

Keep dreaming like we'll live forever ♪

After Luke sings his line, the guys come back in to sing with him again. Now I quietly sing along, still enjoying the coolness of the floor on my feet.

♪ But live it like it's now or never ♪

When they all finish singing, Alex takes his part and Reggie does the background parts. I smile as my brother seems to have found something that makes him happy, which makes me happy. 

♪ We ain't searching for tomorrow (tomorrow)

'Cause we got all we need today (today) ♪ 

Once Alex and Reggie finish, Luke takes over singing again. I see Alex look at me briefly and I give him a thumbs up in encouragement with a huge grin. He smiles as he quickly gets back into it and I can’t help but smile proudly. 

♪ Living on a feeling that's been running through our veins ♪

After Luke’s line, Reggie then takes over this time to sing his part. I smile as Reggie, who's normally more shy than the others, gladly sings his part without even an ounce of shyness.

♪ We're the revolution that's been singing in the rain ♪

After Reggie sings they all come in again, but this time they bring claps into the mix. I smile as I clap along to their beat while they sing.

♪ Don’t look down 'Cause we're still rising up right now and even if we hit the ground ♪

“They're good, yeah?” A girl comes up and starts to clean the table that I’m next to. I turn to her with a smile. 

“Yeah, they really are. I'm proud to call the lead singer my best friend and the drummer my brother,” I say as we bop our heads to the very end of Now or Never. 

“You're one lucky girl to have their music in your life everyday,” she says and I smile. 

“Yeah, I am,” I say, turning back to watch the boys as I continue to dance lightly to the song. 

“Let me guess… don’t like shoes?” she asks as she points down to my feet while moving to a new table. 

“Yeah. I just don’t really like the construction of them…” I admit as I look down at my own shoeless feet. 

“My sister used to be the same. Then she started having to wear them more for pilates… that new workout thing…?” she explains before trailing off and I nod. 

“Yeah I’ve heard of it,” I tell her and she nods. 

“Well when she started that, she started wearing more workout shoes and now she loves them,” she continues to explain and I smile at her. 

“I don’t think I’ll ever be one to wear shoes. My mom tells me she’d put me in some when I was little and then not even two seconds later, Alex or Luke would be telling her I took them off,” I explain with a giggle and she giggles too. 

“Well that sounds like you definitely love being shoeless,” she comments and I nod in agreement. 

“Oh I definitely do,” I tell her and she grins before going back to whatever she was doing beforehand. 

♪ We'll still fly

Keep dreaming like we'll live forever

But live it like it's now or never

It's now or never (now or never) ♪

Just as we finish our conversation, the boys are finishing up and I smile as they all pat each other’s back. They stay on the stage, basking in the feeling, then they talk for a minute before coming down to where I’m standing.

“Hey, sweetheart. What'd you think? Wasn’t that awesome?!” Luke uses the nickname he’s always had for me, but I can’t help but wish it was in a different way. 

In all his sweaty glory, he comes over to hug me from behind. I squeal before giggling, nodding as he lets go of the hug and grabs his towel from my shoulder.

“Yeah, hon, it was electric,” I agree with him as I use my pet name for him and smile when Alex puts his arm over my shoulder. 

“I was on fire, sis!” he exclaims and I smile. 

“Yes you were, Lex!” I concur with a nod before giving my brother a kiss on the cheek. 

“Anyway sweetheart, we’re going to get street dogs to celebrate. You gonna come?” Luke asks as he now replaces Alex's arm with his. 

“Yeah, I think I will,” I reply and Luke smiles before giving my cheek a kiss. I push back the thought that I wish that could be a kiss on the lips. 

“Well if you’re coming, you should put your shoes back on,” Alex tells me as he bends down to pick up my shoes. 

“Do I have too?!” I whine out like a five year old, making both Luke and Alex laugh. 

“Yes, sweetheart. You have to. I promise you can take them off as soon as we get to the alley,” Luke tells me and I grin at him. 

“Ok. I guess I can,” I reluctantly agree as Alex hands me my shoes, rolling his eyes before giving me the ‘we are so talking about this later’ look. 

“I’ll put them back on here in a minute,” I assure them and they both nod before Alex grabs his fanny pack along with my water. 

“Hey! Bobby, where are you going?!” Luke asks as we watch Bobby go up to the girl I talked to earlier.

“I’m good,” he replies, turning back to Luke for a moment with a shrug before he goes back to the girl with all of us now following. 

“Vegetarian. I could never hurt an animal,” Bobby boasts as he tries to flirt with the poor girl. 

We all come up next to him and Luke puts his other arm up onto Bobby’s shoulder. He holds my hand with his other hand, something we’ve just always done platonically. Reggie stands next to me with an arm on Alex’s shoulder as Alex is on the other side of him. 

“You guys are really good,” the girl praises them and smiles at the boys. 

“Thank you,” Luke sheepishly says with a big smile on his face. 

“I see lots of bands. Been in a couple myself. I was really feeling it,” she emphasizes as she looks at us. 

“That’s what we do this for. I’m Luke, by the way,” Luke continues to flirt with her and my stomach twists with jealousy. 

But then Luke squeezes my hand and I smile at the fact that it’s for no reason but to let me know he loves me. We’ve always done that when one of us seems to be upset, just as a sign of ‘I’m here, you’re ok,’ to calm the other. It’s our way of saying we love one another without having to say it, always has been and always will be. Again, Alex gives me a look and I shrug, making him roll his eyes. 

“Hi, I’m Reggie,” Reggie introduces himself in a flustered tone. 

“Alex,” Alex chimes in, putting a hand up in a wave. 

“Y/n.. nice to meet you,” I interject with a sweet smile as I lift my hand and give a small wave like my brother did.

“Bobby,” Bobby chirps as he pushes Luke behind him a bit. 

“I’m Rose. Nice meeting you guys,” the girl says amusedly, and smiles a beautiful smile.

Luke then gives Bobby a wet willie and I giggle lightly when he does. I then hold a shoe out to Alex and he nods as he takes my left shoe to hold it for me. With my right shoe I take my sock out and Alex takes the right one as well. 

I bend down and Luke keeps a hold on my arm to balance me. I smile up at him in thanks, then finish putting my socks and shoes on.

“Oh, uh, here’s our demo. And a tee shirt, size beautiful,” Reggie croons, now flirting as well and I roll my eyes as I stand up right again. 

“Thanks. I’ll be sure not to wipe down the tables with this one,” she jokes as she holds it up to herself before she throws it over her shoulder.

“Oh, good call! Whenever they get wet, they kinda just fall apart in your hands,” Alex informs her and I smirk at him as he bashfully looks away. 

“Don’t you guys have to go get hot dogs?” Bobby asks as he tries to get us all to leave so he can be with Rose. 

“Yeah. He had a hamburger for lunch,” Luke informs Rose as he pushes Bobby back so he can talk to Rose. He then pushes off the table with his hands and grabs my hand again before leaving. 

“That’s what I’m talking about!” Luke exclaims and Reggie giggles as we all walk out the back door of the Orpheum. 

“The smell of sunset boulevard?” Alex asks and I snort as I start to giggle before groaning. 

“The shoes?” Alex asks me and I nod.

“No. It’s what that girl said in there tonight,” Luke explains as he swings our hands back and forth and kicks the puddle that’s in front of us. 

“About our music, right? It’s like an energy. It connects us with people,” he elaborates and I smile even though in my mind I’m only wanting to take my shoes off. 

“I mean, he’s got a point Lex, that’s what connected me and Luke,” I agree and Luke smiles, pulling me in so I’m against his side with his arm around my shoulders. 

“She’s not wrong, man, but they can feel us when we play. I want that connection with everybody,” Luke bursts happily and pulls the boys into our little huddle as well. 

“Then we’re gonna need more t-shirts,” Reggie jokes as he holds up one of the sunset curve shirts I helped them make a couple weeks ago and the rest of us laugh. 

“Let’s go,” Luke playfully orders and I giggle as Luke pulls me closer to leave a kiss to the side of my forehead. 

“I love you,” I muse, making him smile. 

“I love you too, precious,” he parrotes me, making me grin and nuzzle into his side. 

Out of my peripheral I see Alex shake his head lightly and I only cuddle Luke closer. Alex lets out a huff and I shrug as Luke lets go of me. 

“Let’s go boys,” Luke commands as pops his hood up over his head as we all head to the front of the Orpheum. “And best friend,” Luke adds, making me giggle. 

We continue walking forward until we pass a group of girls who are all talking and not noticing anything at all. 

“Ladies,” Reggie croons as he walks up to them and hands them the leftover shirts he has. 

We stop and wait for him as he hands them the shirts before coming back to us. Then we all continue walking and the girls open the shirts only to let out a scream. 

“Reggie, wait!” One of the girls yells out, making me giggle as Reggie smirks. 

We walk for a while before coming up to the alley to get our hot dogs. We get our hot dogs from the cook before we each pile condiments onto them from the back of an Oldsmobile. 

“Man…. I can’t wait until we eat someplace where the condiments aren’t served out of the back of an Oldsmobile,” Alex states as he turns to Luke and then walks off to the owner. 

“I mean, I can’t say I don’t agree,” I tell Luke and he chuckles as he grabs my hand. 

“Hey… sorry I got some pickle juice on your battery cables,” Alex informs the much older man and I hold back a giggle. 

“No problem. It’ll help with the rust,” the older man jokes with a laugh. 

“That can’t…. okay. What?” Alex asks in confusion, then just deciding to let it go as he walks away from the man. He shakes his head and I giggle when he comes back up next to me. 

“Confused?” I ask him and he nods. 

“Duh!” he tells me and I snort out a giggle. 

We walk over to a couch with our food and sit down. Reggie sits farthest to the left and Luke sits next to him before pulling me down onto his lap and Alex shakes his head as he sits down next to Luke. I push my hot dog into Alex’s hand and he rolls his eyes. 

“Uhh, ok sure. I’ll hold it for you, sis,” he sarcastically jokes and I giggle. 

I reach down and quickly pull off one shoe along with its sock before ripping the other off. I lean back into Luke with a sigh and he chuckles as I take my hot dog back from Alex. 

“This is awesome, you guys. We’re playing the Orpheum! I can’t even count how many bands have played here and ended up being huge,” Luke says excitedly as he keeps his arm around me while holding his hot dog with the other.

“We’re gonna be legends!” Luke exclaims with a smile. 

“Yes, you guys will be. And I’ll be right beside you the whole time,” I agree and promise them with a big smile. 

“Eat up, sweetheart. You too, boys. Cause after tonight, everything changes,” Luke informs us as he squeezes my hip while holding his hot dog in the air. 

We all put our hotdogs together as if toasting to something, then each take a big bite.

“That’s a new flavor,” Alex mentions with a mouth full of hotdog while looking at us. 

“Chill man, street dogs haven’t killed us yet,” Reggie jokes, making me giggle. 

“I mean he’s got a point. We’ve been eating here for how long?” I ask with a shrug before we all continue to eat.

Little did we know, the hotdogs had bad chemicals in them, chemicals that aren't good to ingest at all.

Y/n’s Pov:{2020 after the Orpheum performance} 

“Knock knock,” I speak as I stick my head through Julie's bedroom door. 

“Ahh, if it isn’t my favorite ghost that actually has manners. You can come all the way in,” Julie jokes as she turns to look at me and I grin as I step all the way in. 

“Hi, Julie. Yeah, the guys are not well mannered, that's something we can agree on,” I say with a laugh and she smiles, also laughing. 

“Come to get away again?” she asks and I quickly turn away from her before starting to look around her room again. 

“Yeah… he’s just…” I sigh and shake my head as I make my way to her closet. 

“Infuriating?” she fills in for me and I bite my lip as I nod. 

I start to look around her closet and find a shirt I really like. Smiling, I pull it off the hanger and turn to her as I hold it up. 

“Can I try this on?” I ask her and she nods as she gets up and grabs a notebook off her chair. 

“Sure. Just don’t do what your boyfriend apparently likes to do,” she tells me with a giggle as she sits back down and I pull it off the hanger. 

“One, he’s not my boyfriend. Two, Alex tells that story too much. It was one time!” I quickly defend Luke as I walk over to the mirror to slip it on over my shirt and Julie shakes her head. 

“Whatever, just make sure it stays the way it is and comes back to me,” she jokes and I roll my eyes in the mirror at her. 

“Yeah, yeah. One time. One time Luke steals a shirt and cuts it up, then we both become shirt villains,” I joke as I turn to look at her. 

“Well? Does it look good on me?” I ask her as I hold my arms out and spin a little. 

“Yeah. It does. Go ahead and borrow it whenever you want to,” she tells me when she looks up at me from writing and I grin at her.

“Thank you, Jules,” I tell her and she smiles sweetly back at me. 

“Of course. That’s what girlfriends are for,” Julie says as she continues to write in her book. 

“I’ve never really had girl friends. I’ve only ever had the boys…” I tell her, my voice thick with emotion and she gets up from the bed. 

“Well, you have me and Flynn now,” she tells me as she comes up beside me. 

“Wanna try on anything else?” she asks and I shrug, making her smile. 

“Really y/n, it’s ok. Try whatever you like,” she reiterates to me and I grin, making her smile as she goes and sits back on her bed. 

I excitedly walk over to her closet and look through it. I look at her shirts for a few minutes, but nothing jumps out at me. I sigh and let my head fall with my eyes falling closed, making Julie chuckle. 

“Nothing speaks to ya, huh?” she asks and I huff, opening my eyes. 

My eyes light up as I see something and Julie seems to notice as she once again gets up to come over to me. I bend down and pick them up with a smile on my face. Julie watches me carefully as I straighten up and look at her. 

“Do you have socks by chance? I don’t know if mine would even be in the bags in the garage or not. I never really kept any around,” I say excitedly and she smiles, walking over to her dresser. 

“Sure, what kind do you normally like?” she asks as she opens the drawer.

“Umm, you got any knee high?” I ask and she gives me a devilish smile. 

“Oh, I’ve got many…” she tells me as she begins to pull a bunch out:

Julie lays out pair after pair and I marvel at all her choices of knee high socks. I find it hard to pick my favorite pair and Julie chuckles. 

“Pick two or three favorites and you can keep them along with the shoes,” Julie tells me and my head snaps up to look at her. 

“Really? I can keep the shoes and two pairs of socks?” I ask and she nods, smiling. 

“The shoes aren’t really my favorite anymore, so yeah. Keep ‘em. I also don’t really wear the knee highs anymore,” she says with a laugh as she motions to all the socks she has. 

“Thank you, Jules,” I tell her and she smiles, nodding at me. 

“There’s so many new patterns from when I was younger. How will I ever pick?” I ask and she chuckles as she lifts a pair off the bed. 

“I think you’d like these maroon ones or maybe the navy blue, but if you're ever looking to impress a certain someone, then I’d take one of the music notes,” she tells me as she lifts each one to show me. 

“I’ll take the maroon and the yellow and black ones, those ones kinda remind me of when Luke used to call me bee…” I fondly tell her as I pick up the socks before looking up at her to see she has an amused look on her face. 

“What?” I ask and she giggles. 

“He used to call you, bee? Really?” she asks and I blush lightly. 

“It was because bumblebee was my favorite transformer. He used it when we were like 8!” I exclaim when she raises an eyebrow at me. 

“Ok. No, that's actually a very cute reason…” she admits as she crosses her arms and I smile. 

“Isn’t it, though? If Lex were here he’d totally be gagging and rolling his eyes,” I tell her and she chuckles. 

“I could totally see that. Alex seems very protective over you,” she agrees with me and I roll my eyes. 

“You have no idea,” I joke and she laughs again. 

“You can come take my socks whenever. Like I said, I don’t wear them very often. But keep those ones, they’re yours now,” she tells me with a grin and I grin back. 

“Really, thank you,” I tell her again and she shrugs. 

“Hey. It’s nothing. I know you hate shoes, so if you like those and I mean really like them, go right ahead and keep ‘em,” she tells me with a smile and I jump up, grabbing the shoes and socks. 

“I’ll see you later. Thank you for my new shoes and socks. You think Luke will like ‘em? They match his…” I say in a bashful tone and Julie smirks. 

“I’m sure he’ll love them. Heck, he’ll probably just like seeing you excited about shoes for once,” Julie jokes with another shrug and I giggle. 

“You're right. I’ll see you later?” I ask her and she nods, grinning. 

“Got a gig with the boys tonight so I’m sure I’ll see you there. You never pass our gigs up,” she tells me as she starts picking up the other socks. 

“That’s ‘cause I’m the cheerleader. I cheer everyone on, especially now that I’m more of a background manager now that Flynn’s the real manager,” I admit and she shakes her head. 

“You’re part of the team too, even if you do more background stuff. Plus, I think of you more as our stylist than a cheerleader. Those shirts you used to make were awesome. Not to mention how you dressed the guys and me for the last gig,” she raves and I blush at all the praise. 

“Oh… that was nothing, really,” I wave her compliment off and she shakes her head. 

“Y/n, take the compliment. You're awesome at style,” she demands and I slowly smile while nodding. 

“Ok… ok. Thank you,” I tell her shyly and she laughs. 

“Now go try your new shoes out,” she jokes with me, rolling her eyes with a smile and I grin. 

“Ok. See you later!” I wave at her and she waves back. 

I quickly walk out of her room—when she opened the door I have no clue, probably when my head was buried in the closet—and I decide to just apparate to the garage. My feet lightly land on the garage floor and I quickly rush over to the couch. 

I put the bumblebee striped socks on, then the shoes and smile when I finish tying them. I stand up and grin as I dance around a little bit. Soon I get bored waiting for the guys so I decide to figure out the guy’s clothes for the gig tonight. 

I go up into the loft where all of our clothes are and look through Alex’s first. I find him a real nice light pink shirt, knowing he’d want his pink. I then look through his pants and find him one of his many pairs of black sweats. 

I then go over to his new collection of fanny packs and find him a nice jean jacket style one. I lay that all out and look over it. I then grab one of his many snapback hats and add it in. 

The blue of the snapback pairs perfectly with the fanny pack and I decide to let him pick shoes, making me smile as I’m satisfied with the outfit. I then move on to Luke’s outfit, starting with his favorite skull shirt and lay it out. I start to riffle through his pants when I hear the boys land downstairs from apparating. 

“Sweetheart, where are you?” I hear Luke shout out and I smile. 

“In the loft, Lukey!” I shout back and smile when I find the right pants. 

“There you are. Come down and cuddle?” he asks me and I shake my head, smiling more. 

“Sorry, Lukey boy. Can’t. I’ve still got yours, Reggie’s, and Julie's outfits to do before tonight,” I sadly tell him and he frowns. 

“But… if you help me, maybe I can get them done faster,” I appeal to him and he takes a moment to think it over before his frown slowly turns to a smile. 

“Deal,” he tells me and I smile softly at him as he comes closer. 

“Ok. Do you want to finish your outfit then while I start on Regsters?” I ask and he laughs.

“What?” I ask him and he chuckles. 

“You haven’t called Reggie Regsters since we were like ten,” he tells me with a smirk and I shrug. 

“I guess I’m just feeling very nostalgic today,” I comment as I continue to put Reggie’s outfit together. 

“Ok. I’m done with Reginald’s. Are you done with yours?” I ask as I turn around to look at him and again he has a smirk on. 

“What is with you today? Old nicknames and full names?” he asks and I giggle as I look over what he’s added to his outfit. 

“I really don’t know. I was hanging out with Jules today and for some reason it’s put me in a very weird happy and nostalgic mood,” I explain as I give his outfit a few minor changes. 

When I finish his outfit I fully stand up and when I do, I hear him let out a gasp. I look at him and realize he’s looking down at my feet. 

I grin as I stand on my heels, letting my toes angle out before bringing them back in. 

“Oh! Jules gave me ‘em. Aren’t they rockin’?” I ask and he gives me a sideways look. 

“Sweetheart, don’t get me wrong, they are rockin’, but why are you wearing them? You hate shoes…” he asks me and I feel a blush creep up my neck. 

“I really liked them and Julie told me I could have them, so I took them. Do you not like them? They match yours…” I tell him as I bite my lip as I look down at them. 

“No. I love them. It’s just… I’m not used to seeing you wear shoes, sweetie,” he explains as he comes over to me. 

“Oh…ok. I liked em ‘cause they matched yours. Not to mention they’re  too,” I meekly point out and I hear him chuckle. 

“Is that all we had to do all these years to get you to wear shoes? Just find you a pair that matched mine?” he asks, making me look up at him and my breath gets caught in my throat with how close he is. 

If I moved just a little bit more, my lips could touch his. Oh how badly I want to just surge forward and close the small distance, but I don’t. I look down at his lips before quickly looking back up at his eyes in hopes he didn’t catch it. To my relief, it seems like he didn’t. 

“If that’s the case, we shoulda done that years ago,” he jokes and I just watch him as he keeps a smile on his face. 

“Hey. What’s wrong?” he asks me, snapping me out of my thoughts. 

“Oh… nothing, I promise. Just… stuck in thought I guess,” I tell him with a shrug before going around him to try and go down the ladder. 

“Hey. No. I know something is up, y/n. Come on, you can tell me,” he prompts me as he grabs my hand and pulls me back to him. 

“Really. It’s nothing. I’m fine…” I try to lie the best I can, knowing he’ll read me like an open book. 

“No. You’re not leaving till you tell me what’s wrong…” he informs as he again pulls me back, but this time he pulls me into a hug and holds me there. 

“Lukey… come on. Let me go. I can’t talk to you about it, ok…?” I plead with him and he gives me a confused look. 

“What can’t you tell me? You tell me everything, sweetheart. It’s ok. You can tell me,” he promises and I sigh, realizing he won’t be letting this go. 

“I can’t tell you because it’s about you. You’ll stop talking to me and I don’t want that,” I admit in a fast jumble of words. 

“What do you mean it’s about me? Did I do something to make you upset with me? I’m sorry if I did,” he quickly apologizes and I shake my head. 

“Goodness no, Luke… I… uh… like someone…” I tell him as I bite my lip and his face falls. 

“Oh. So you’re…” he trails off and I nod. 

“Yeah. I’m in love with you…” I admit sheepishly and his eyes widen. 

“Wait, what?!” he asks and I give a nervous giggle. 

“What did you think I meant?” I ask him and he chuckles. 

“I thought you were trying to tell me you were going to go out with another guy. Ya know, dial everything back…” he explains with a slow smile making way to his face. 

“Oh… well, no…” I again nervously trail off and he chuckles again. 

“Sweetheart, look at me please…” he asks me and I do, only to see him smiling. 

“Wha-” I start off, but he cuts me off as he slams his lips to mine and I freeze. 

The kiss lasts for a few minutes and it's exactly how I always dreamed of it. At first, Luke kisses me and I can’t move out of shock, but once I’ve snapped out of it I kiss him back. Our lips move in sync and it’s so full of love. 

It’s nice and slow as Luke keeps his hands on my cheeks. My arms slowly wrap around his neck and I play with the hair at the nip of his neck. All too soon though, we are both pulling away for air. 

He lays his forehead against mine as he now wraps his arms around my waist and mine stay around his neck. He gives me one last peck before he’s smiling, making me smile too. 

“I’ve wanted to do that since fourth grade…” he whispers out as he nudges my nose with his. 

“Well… why didn’t you?” I ask him with a giggle when his face scrunches up. 

“Why didn’t you kiss me?” he sassily asks and I giggle again. 

“Because I didn’t know how you felt. I didn’t want to risk losing you,” I admit and he chuckles, shaking his head. 

“I had the same reasoning,” he admits and I grin before we both start laughing. 

“Wait, so we’ve both been oblivious idiots this whole time?” I ask and he nods while still laughing. 

“I could have told you that! As a matter of fact, I did!” Alex shouts from downstairs, making me and Luke laugh harder. 

“Well, that’s definitely one way to do it,” I giggle out and Luke shrugs. 

“I guess so, bee…” he says with a grin on his face and I immediately look down at my socks. 

“You figured it out!” I excitedly exclaim and he nods, smiling. 

“That I did. How could I forget about bee? Now if we had known that all we had to was get bumblebee striped socks and shoes that matched mine, maybe we would’ve had you in shows years ago,” Luke jokes with an eye roll and I scoff. 

“Oh, shut up. At least now I’m just like you,” I tell him with a grin and he smiles more, if that’s even possible. 

“Yes, you are and I love it,” he tells me with a smile before pulling me back to him by the waist. 

“Can I kiss you again?” he asks and I giggle. 

“Well you didn’t even ask the first time around, but you're lucky I love you or else it’d be a no,” I joke before realizing what I had actually said and I pause, waiting for his response. 

“I love you too, sweetheart,” he replies with a big cheeky smile and I can’t help but smile with him. 

“I’m going to kiss you now,” he jokingly tells me and I smile, nodding. 

He leans forward and kisses me again. This time feels just like the first, so full of love and care. I smile into the kiss as does he before again we’re pulling away. 

“You gonna come give me those cuddles now?” he asks and I laugh before playfully sighing. 

“I guess we can go cuddle now…” I reply playfully and he grins. 

“Ok. Come on,” he tells me and before I know it, I’m being pulled towards the ladder. 

We make it down to the bottom and he pulls me over to his couch before he’s plopping down onto it. He looks up at me before holding his arms out and doing grabby hands like a five year old would. I laugh as I sit down on the couch.

He wraps his arms around me and I cuddle into his chest. I sigh when all he brings is a protective warmth over me. Soon before I know it, my eyes slowly drop and I’m off into dreamland, sleeping peacefully in my best friend's arms (well, boyfriend now, I guess). Only the peaceful sleep doesn’t last very long because soon I’m jumping awake. 

“Are you wearing shoes?!” Alex shouts as I sleepily look up at him. 

“Yes, I am. Now go away, I’m going back to sleep,” I grumble as I cuddle back into Luke, who lets out a small breathy laugh and that’s the last thing I hear before falling back into a deep, peaceful sleep. 

The End…

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[losingmymindrn]

You pull me in like the moon does the tide | coralbaird 1930s au

○~~~○~~~○

Her back ached. Terribly. Her work was endless, and she always came home smelling like fish and seaweed. She was pushed into a pile of fish today, actually. Dead fish. A rancid smell, if too overwhelming. Coral just wanted to get home. Tugging at her collar, Coral stepped off the docks, the wet wood creaking under her weight. Now, women weren't technically supposed to be doing work at the docks, that was a man's job, after all. But she had earned her place. By force. She was paid less then her colleagues, but it was enough for a...

'COME NOW, WITNESS THE AMAZING COVEY!'

The bright lights on the sign nearly blinded her. The covey? What was that? Curious, Coral stepped closer, hands shoved in her pockets. "Ay, you wanna see 'em?" A voice called from behind her. She jumped and faced it. In front of her, stood a young man, a bit older than her, with light blonde hair and electric blue eyes, much brighter than her pale ones.

"Ah... perhaps. Who are they?" She asked the man. He smiled and pointed at the sign, where a woman covered in a red dress and colorful feathers stood with a guitar, singing into the mic. "The covey's are musicians, that one's name is Lucy gray. She has the smoothest voice I've ever heard. She's the lead singer." He said. Coral only nodded in response. "Seems... lovely." She said after a moment. "Now, I would love to go, but I don't got much to my name right now." She said with a disappointed sigh. If she had the money, she might've taken her little brother to go see 'the Covey.'

The man smiled at her. "I'm friends with Lucy gray, I can get you in." He offered. Coral turned to him, bewildered. "Really? Ya don't even know me!" She exclaimed. The man only laughed. "So? Everyone should be blessed with hearing her voice." Huh. Well, it would be rude to turn down such an offer... "Well. Alright." She agreed. He smiled at her. "Great, meet me at the Hob tonight, 6:50. And my name is Coriolanus, by the way." And with that, he was gone. Coral turned back to the sign. Well. Here's to a fun night tonight.

○~~~○~~~○

Like promised, Coral met Coriolanus outside the Hob. Her little brother, Mizzen, had wanted to go, but apparently he wore himself out at school today, making him damn near collapse on the floor. Coriolanus greeted her, a man right by his side. "Coral, glad you can make it. This is Sejanus, my friend." By the way Sejanus was looking at Coriolanus, it didn't seem like they were 'just friends.' Coral nodded at him politely. "Let's head in, we want good seating." The blonde ushered them in, paying for entrance, and practically dragging her into the hob.

They did find good seat, right up front. "It starts at 7, so do you want anything while we wait?" Sejanus asked from his spot next to Coriolanus. "Nah, I'm good." She declined, focusing on the stage. Coriolanus had ordered drinks for them, because even though she declined wanting anything, she couldn't help but get a good ol' Blood and Sand. Soon enough, the spot lights were on, focusing on the stage, and out came the covey. She watched as they came forward, each holding their instruments close. But she was encapsulated by the most beautiful woman she had ever seen.

Lucy gray.

She had red feathers stuck in her curly dark hair. Carnelian eyeshadow brought out her brown eyes, one too many layers of ruby lipstick on her full lips. And a matching red dress clung to her body, making it impossible to look away. Cheers and hoots and hollers rose up from the crowd, but she was to slacken jaw to join. "Hm, red theme tonight." Coriolanus mused.

"Why, hiya y'all!" Lucy Gray grinned at the crowd, a brighter than the sun grin. She got cheers back from the crowd. "Oh I know, I know! It's been a little since I've been up here, huh?" Cheers again. Lucy gray giggles, and Coral could swear it was the most beautiful sound, more so than the calming waves. "Well don't cha worry, I've got many songs to make up for it!" More cheers.

Lucy Gray starts her song, and gods Coriolanus was right. She has the smoothest, loveliest voice known to man. She was memorized. But that's when Lucy Gray looks her in the eyes. Time stops.

The waves crashing outside the hob, gone. The cheers and screams inside, none existent. It was just them. Those brown doe eyes make her legs feel like jelly, and she was grateful for sitting down. She was in a trance. And it seemed as if Lucy gray was in one too. She skipped a line, letting the crowd finish it. But much too soon, Lucy Gray pulled her gaze away from her, back to the crowd. And oh...

Coral thinks she just fell in love.

[this-is-a-dystopian-parable]

What happens in Three Houses and moreover is it in any way (cast album etc) available outside of NY

"what happens" in Three Houses is a little like what happens in Octet. There isn't really a defined story, it's a collection of three personal accounts that focus more on emotion than an actual plot. I think in this case, you really get a solid idea of what's going on from the majority of the reviews.

As far as availability, there isn't anything yet. From talks with the actors a cast album has yet to be confirmed, though I think it's pretty likely considering Octet's success and the positive reviews. I believe at this point we also didn't know yet if Octet would get one.

(THREE HOUSES SPOILERS)

The three of them are at a weird liminal bar run by the Wolf, who encourages each one to step up to the mic and "go deep". They each start by explaining their situation, all three of them recently went through a difficult breakup (in Susan and Beckett's case, a divorce) and moved into a new house right before the pandemic hit. They then each go into an account of how they spent their time, spiraling into obsession and self-destructive tendencies with nothing from the outside world to keep them on track. And they all have puppet companions! Susan organizes her grandmother's books with the help of a dragon figurine named Pookie, Sadie plays 14hrs a day of an Animal Crossing/Sims/WOW game where she has a little badger friend named Zippy, and Beckett talks to a spider he's named Shelab whose webs are taking over his basement apartment he won't clean. The Wolf appears to play minor antagonists in each one, getting more and more intimidating.

Each one discusses their relationship with their grandparents, how they see their same mistakes and faults echoing in themselves. They discuss what drove their relationships apart. It all comes together into a picture of all the parts of themselves that scare them, that they want to hide, but can't anymore because there isn't any normal structure to their lives to push all that underneath.

Beckett is last, and he confidently tells the Wolf he's not afraid, he knows he's going to win (he's the third pig, after all). But Beckett builds up his defenses metaphorically and literally, shutting everyone out and building walls of cardboard boxes around himself. The others join him. But the grandparents stop them, they tell them of their own struggles, and they tell the three of them that they must dance with the wolf, accept the parts of themselves that scare them. Susan and Sadie dance with Wolf, who is now in a grandmother's nightgown (a la Little Red Riding Hood) and a giant grey wolf mask (not the one on the program, we never see that one). Beckett stays put.

At the very end, the three bring together mementos of their grandparents and they sing about meeting each other in a cafe, once it's all over, and accidentally holding hands. It's very The Field/Seconds/Prayer etc, lovely and simple. No more obsessing over the past and the way they are defined by things they cannot control, they are looking forward now.

[the-albster]

Open Mic Night

I thought I was going to have more time to finish this one this week, but alas, college life and extracurriculars have caught up to me. Still, I am very attached to this piece, and I have had this idea for a while. I hope you enjoy!!

Word Count: 2,468

Content Warnings: mild panic attack, self-deprecation, mention of a noose in song lyrics

Summary: Pari signed up to sing a favorite song of hers at an open mic night, and all of her friends come along to watch. It's dark and snowy, and she's getting more and more nervous. She admits she's scared when she's in the bathroom, and Kariah helps her out. Pari gets up onstage and performs, any nerves immediately fading. All of the friends applaud and compliment her, and it ends in a group hug and late-night food.

Content Used: "The Cave" by Mumford and Sons

Art By: @eventidebrine

_________________________________________

It was a cold, snowy Monday night. A very anxious Pari was walking briskly through the snow, holding gloved hands tightly with Kariah, wearing her guitar on her back. Behind them was the rest of the friend group; Faith, Christine, Todd, Marisol, and Tristan. They were all happily chatting amongst each other (minus Faith and Christine, who were arguing again,) and Pari had it completely tuned out.

“How are you feeling?” Kariah asked, squeezing Pari’s hand. She looked gorgeous in her champagne-colored puffy jacket. Pari wished wearing her hair down everyday didn’t bother her as much as it did; her ears were pretty cold from her hair in her signature bun.

“Fine,” Pari said, but that was not what she meant.

Tonight was the yearly open mic night. This one was different from most; you had to sign up in advance in order to be able to perform. Todd said he had heard rumors that it had gone on for almost three hours last year, so they were doing this to shorten it. This year, Pari decided on a whim that she would try to sign up for a position, not expecting for there to be one open for her.

But there was exactly one. Which meant that she was performing in front of an audience.

Pari wasn’t the type that had stage fright normally, but something about this was daunting. Maybe because of the rawness of the song she was playing, and how she would be able to see every single audience member. Also, all of her friends insisted on going along, and none of them had ever heard Pari sing. Todd had heard her tune her guitar, but he had never heard her playing a full song, and he especially had never heard her sing.

What if her voice wasn’t good? What if she was too quiet?

“Honey, you’re not fine. You forget that I can see right through you.” Kariah squeezed Pari’s hand tight. “You’re going to do amazing.”

“You got this, Pari!” Marisol squealed, skipping forward to walk next to her. She was wearing a beanie, her hair now about pixie cut length, and her jacket was so big on her that it didn’t look like she could move her arms. Pari glanced back at Todd, who was looking at Marisol fondly. She smiled softly at him, and then looked back at her.

“Thanks, Marisol.”

They arrived at the cafe moments later, and the anxiety was beginning to overtake Pari. She took a deep breath and then, as a form of comfort, made sure she had everything.

“I have my guitar… Kariah, you have my backpack?”

“Yep. And I looked at your list. Your shirt, skirt, headband, brush, makeup, and heels are all inside. I triple checked.”

Pari breathed a sigh of relief. “You’re perfect. Thank you.”

Todd stepped forward to be near Pari, and he placed a hand on her shoulder. “Pari, you’re gonna be great up there. I can’t wait to hear you sing.”

“And,” Kariah added, “I’m proud of you for trying something new, even if it’s scary. You’re going through with it even though it scares you, and that is bravery if I’ve ever seen it.”

“I don’t feel very brave,” Pari snapped, and she looked down, guilt already filling her heart. “Sorry. I’m just nervous.”

Tristan came up from behind Pari and wrapped her in a big bear hug, patting her shoulder roughly, yet it was comforting. “You’re gonna kill it, Par!”

Pari looked back at Christine, who nodded at her. “You’ll be fine.”

Faith shoved her girlfriend and leaned forward. “You’re going to, like, kill it out there! I don’t know why you didn’t want me to ask daddy to record it professionally.”

“I’d rather not feel like I’m on a news show when I’m performing,” Pari responded. “Also, thank you guys.”

Feeling supported by her friends, Pari walked inside, taking a deep breath. It was, thankfully, right between performances, so nothing was interrupted.

“Y’all go find us seats. Todd, save me one up front. I’m gonna go with Pari to get ready.” Todd nodded and grabbed a program as Pari handed him her guitar. He led everyone to their seats as they all grabbed programs. Tristan handed a couple to Pari and Kariah, and Kariah opened it immediately.

“We have four performances to get you ready, Par. Come on, let’s go find the bathroom.”

Pari took Kariah by the hand, and Kariah briskly led Pari to the restroom. It was a small, yet surprisingly clean single-stall bathroom.

“You go in the stall and change, and I’ll get your makeup and stuff out and get ready to doll you up.” Kariah reached into the bag and handed Pari her clothes. Taking a shaky breath, Pari took them, and she slipped into the stall, shutting the door behind her.

The more Pari thought about the performance, the more anxiety she began to have. She had signed up for this because… well, one, she didn’t think there would actually be a spot for her, and two, because she wanted to give back to her community by participating in a local event. And she wanted to do that, but the idea of going up on that little stage and completely letting herself go in front of all of those people sent a wave of nervousness throughout her body. She would be performing, something she didn’t normally do, and she chose a song that made her feel vulnerable. No one had heard her sing. Kariah was the performer, not her.

Soon, the thoughts came rushing back. “I’m not good enough.” “I can’t do this.” “Everyone’s going to laugh at me.”

And as soon as Pari was dressed, she crumpled to the ground, tears streaming down her face.

Kariah knocked on Pari’s stall door, and Pari moved just enough to open it for her. She sat down next to her girlfriend, brushing a hair out of her face.

“Hey, baby, what’s wrong?”

“I’m…” It was hard for her to admit it, but she did. “I’m scared.”

“Oh, honey…” Kariah wiped a tear off of her face. “Can I hug you?”

“Please… please do.”

Moments later, Pari felt Kariah’s arms around her, and she melted into them, holding onto her so tightly. She was shaking, fearing what was going to happen when she got on that stage. And now that she was crying, it was going to look like she didn’t want to be there. She did.

She was just scared.

“It’s going to be okay,” Kariah whispered, stroking her hair. “You’re going to do great. I’m so excited to hear you perform. You’re going to be the best part of that open mic night, and deep down, you know it.”

“No, you’re only saying that because you’re my girlfriend.”

“I’m saying that because it’s true. I know you’re scared. Trust me, I’m always scared before I go up onstage.” Pari looked up at her, eyes red, and Kariah smiled softly. “It’s true. The pre-show jitters exist. But once you’re up there, and you get started, it’s going to be fine.” Kariah let Pari go and then stood up, bringing her up with her. “Come on. Let’s do some warm ups.”

“In the cafe bathroom?”

“In the cafe bathroom.”

Pari wiped her eyes and took a deep breath. Kariah gave her one last hug and then twirled her around. “Follow what I do, and the pre-show jitters will be gone.”

She led her through some tongue twisters, some energy warm ups, and some stretches. By the time they were done, there were two shows left. As Kariah began to do Pari’s makeup, she looked into her eyes.

“When you get up on that stage,” Kariah said, “imagine you’re in the music practice room. Think of the song that you’re singing, and how it resonates with you. Feel the music, feel the moment, sing your heart out.”

Pari nodded, a soft smile escaping her lips, feeling much better. “Thank you.”

_________________________________________

“Ugh! I, like, love the arts, but I came here to see Pari! When does Pari get to go?” Faith flipped through her program and huffed.

“She’s next, dumbass,” Christine pointed at the program. “That was 11. Pari’s 12th.”

“I’m so excited!” Marisol exclaimed, leaning forward to rest her head on Todd’s. “Todd! Are you ready to see your sister perform?!”

Todd nodded, leaning his head back to look at Marisol. “You know it, babe.”

Kariah was sitting front and center, staring at the stage in anticipation. She was wondering how Pari was doing while she was back there waiting to go. It had only been one performance, but Kariah felt like it had been so long, and she was ready to see her girlfriend shine in the spotlight.

Then, moments later, Pari came out.

Since Kariah did her makeup, she knew how pretty Pari looked, but something about the cozy lighting in the restaurant made her look gorgeous and elegant. Her skirt flowed behind her slightly, and her hair was neatly tied into a bun on her head. Kariah was in awe of how gorgeous her girlfriend was, and the more she looked at her, the more excited she was to see Pari perform.

As they were sound-checking Pari, Faith leaned forward and tapped on Kariah’s shoulder. Kariah turned around. “Hm?”

“You did her makeup, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, you did, like, amazing. Pari looks really pretty right now.” That made Kariah smile. Faith, the expert of fashion and makeup in the friend group, gave her a makeup compliment. That made her feel special.

“Test, test.”

The crowd began to quiet down. Kariah looked up at her girlfriend, so excited. She was sensing the nervousness coming back to her by the way she was tensed up onstage and by the look in her eyes. Pari looked out at Kariah, who smiled and gave her a thumbs-up.

“Hi, I’m Pari Shepard, and I’m going to be performing one of my favorite songs. It’s called ‘The Cave.’ I hope you enjoy it.”

Pari took a deep breath, closing her eyes, and Kariah began to smile wider than she had in a while.

And then, she began to play.

As Pari’s fingers moved along the strings of the guitar, Kariah could see the nerves and the tenseness in Pari completely vanish. In fact, as she began to play, she noticed a small smile creeping onto her face. And the music itself was gorgeous. Kariah was expecting her to go up there and play some chords and sing along, but Pari played lots of little, intricate notes that formed a beautiful melody. Kariah was gazing at her, and she couldn’t stop smiling. She was so proud.

And Pari’s voice! Her Polish accent just barely shone through, making her voice sound gorgeously unique. Though her voice was soft, it was still clear, and it filled the room. Everything about Pari was ethereal. Kariah took a quick glance at Todd next to her, who had a look of pure pride on his face.

“I’m so proud of her…” he muttered. Kariah smiled wide and listened as Pari sang.

“But I will hold on hope

And I won’t let you choke

On the noose around your neck

And I’ll find strength in pain

And I will change my ways

I’ll know my name as it’s called again…”

Kariah could tell that the lyrics really meant a lot to Pari; the idea of overcoming struggles and finding strength in hard times. She didn’t want the singing to end. She was lost in Pari’s beauty, her talent, and honestly, just everything about her. The way her eyes sparkled as she sang something meaningful. The way her fingers strummed the guitar. The way she rested the guitar on her knee as she played. The way she smiled as she sang. The way it was so clear that Pari was up on that stage doing something she loved.

God, Kariah was so in love with her.

When Pari was done singing, she looked out into the audience, tears filling her eyes as she smiled. “Thank you.”

The room filled with applause. Kariah stood up, screaming, “Go Pari! You did it, honey! I love you so much!!”

Pari walked off the stage, her eyes watering and her body trembling. The adrenaline must have rushed when she went up there, and now that she was done, it was fading out.

“Pari! Oh my gosh!” Marisol was bouncing up and down. “You did so good!”

She smiled at Marisol’s compliment, and she set her guitar against a chair. “Thanks, Mari.”

Kariah took a step forward, taking Pari’s hands. “You, my Pari, were amazing up there. I’m so, so proud of you. I love you more than anything.”

“Thanks, babe. I love you too.”

Pari leaned forward and gave Kariah a tight hug, and Kariah kissed the top of her head, taking a moment to wipe the tears off of her girlfriend’s face. Those tears were likely a mix of emotions from the song and emotions from getting through that performance. They made Kariah begin to tear up as well.

Kariah felt Todd’s arms around both of them, and then Marisol joined. Tristan came up behind Todd and put his hand on Pari’s shoulder, hugging her too. Faith stepped forward and tried to drag Christine along, but Christine wouldn’t budge, so she joined the hug on both of their behalfs.

The group hug made Pari feel seen. Happy.

Loved.

Like she was lovable.

“Thank you guys for coming…” Pari said between tears, “and thank you for this. I don’t know what I would’ve done without you guys supporting me.”

“Wanna stay and get food?” Tristan exclaimed as the hug dispersed. “It’s on me!”

Everyone cheered and nodded, and as Pari was walking, Christine tapped her on the shoulder. She held out her hand, which Pari took, and they shook hands.

“I knew you had it in the bag, Par. Nice job.”

Pari grinned and nodded. “Thanks, Christine.”

Todd stepped forward and squeezed Pari. “You really did. You put yourself out there, and I didn’t know you could sing OR play like that! What other secrets are you keeping from me?”

A soft chuckle escaped Pari’s lips. “None. Thank you, Todd.”

She went and rejoined the rest of the group, sitting next to Kariah and leaning over on her shoulder. Being on that stage sent a new wave of confidence through her, and lit a fire in her that maybe, just maybe, going on a stage and singing with her guitar was going to be a new passion of hers.

Kariah looked down and brushed Pari’s bangs out of her face. “I really am proud of you.”

Pari smiled and looked down. “Thanks. For once, I’m proud of me, too.”

[cherriegyuu]

Peak Time - (Episodes 1&2)

I like it, I like it a lot. That’s it, really. The whole idea behind it is amazing really and for one I’m really glad that this isn’t an Mnet show. I feel like Mnet, being Mnet, would try to create some sort of rivalry between the groups. I don’t think JTBC will do that, at least considering what I remember of Mix Nine but I can be wrong, it’s been so many years lol. Also the judges are good ones. I personally don’t like Jay Park but this show might change it, idk? Kyuhyun on the other hand… Really starting to dislike him.

I’ll mention only the performances I liked because there were too many to go through them all. There’s really no specific order to this, but I did like some of them more than others 

Team 20:00 (M.O.N.T) – Fever

They made me forget that this is, originally, a JYP song. That’s show good they were. And they didn’t have a whole of dancing and there’s only 2 of them and they managed to make it feel it was their concert. I remember them from Mix Nine and this is a huge jump from that. I’m curious to see how they move forward and how will they be able to tackle other types of music. They seemed to be really in their element on this.

Team 11:00 (Vanner) – Adore U

First off, their story? Amazing, they deserve the world, they just really want to perform, doesn’t matter what they have to do on the side to be able to do so. And their performance? Sooooo good. It takes good vocalists to cover good vocalists and I believe they did a fantastic job. I’m already following them everywhere

Team 8:00 (DKB) – The Real

In this song, more than in others, there’s this energy that’s very specific to Ateez, it’s related to them as people and how they behave. To me, DKB managed to emulate that very well in this performance. They had fun throughout the entire thing and you could see it in their faces. It made me tear up a little bit when they were getting praised and the leader (?) was holding back his tears.

Team 23:00 (DGNA) – Mirotic

As expected, 2nd gen really hits different. Everything about this performance was magnificent, I can’t even really express how good it really was. The hold this song has on me it’s not even funny and the fact that these guys came out singing like that, no backtrack, vocals for days, so powerful all three of them and really dancing is insane. The other groups were so surprised to see them sing like that and I just was so happy, smiling and singing along the whole time.

Team 02:00 (NTX) – No Mercy

This was really good, to me the least expected song. I really liked it and there isn’t a whole lot to comment on it. I know that they’ve been getting some negative feedback from knets, because they dissed 4th gen during the rap verse but honestly? Who cares? Let’s start with the fact that they are, indeed, part of 4th gen and really a lot of the groups tend to focus on visuals and dancing more than anything else, sometimes it feels like watching a dance group that happens to have mics attached to their faces. So yeah, good job to them. (Also, imagine how crazy it is to perform to a song in a competition like this and then have the original singer come out as a contestant.)

Team 14:00 (GHOST9) – Never Ever

I like it, it wasn’t perfect at times, but overall very good. I’m surprised that they had to stay on hold for the judges to decide whether or not they would be able to move to the next round. To me they performed better than Bae143 and ATBO, who passed by the amount of votes imediatly (which don’t take me as reference because I usually hate when people cover exo or any song sang by exo members so). I was really surprised to seem them perform as just 5 and the fact that they had to rearrange the entire performance in day and still managed to do a decent job is really impressive. The guy rapping was screaming a little too much, I’m not sure if he was trying to emulate Jackson’s tone or if he had to take on a part that wasn’t originally his

Heedo – Soloist – Back Door

I’ve been a fan of his for some years now so I’m happy that he got to come out and participate. This performance was really good and really complete, he’s a good rapper and his singing voice is really good too.

Jong Up – Soloist – Anyone

I never expected to see him come to a show like this. My friend, who likes him a lot, said he was doing fine on his own so she doesn’t understand why he came out like this and why he said that B.A.P wanted to come as group. Regardless of that, his performance was really good and it really is different to see a man, man, dancing.

Byeong Ju – Soloist – 4 Walls

Let me tell that this a hard song and he was really good. I don’t have a whole lot to say so yeah, amazing, loved it.

                                                              ------

I hated how JTBC didn’t announce during the show which groups would be through, out of those who were on hold, and the soloists who would make it into team 24:00. “Go to the site”? You couldn’t have spared 10 minutes to announce that while the show was airing? A terrible move if you ask me. Either way, out of the 15 groups in the show, I’ll be watching these 7 more as we move forward, but who knows, it might change.

Compared to Boys Planet, I like this one more, as the nature of the show is to push already formed groups closer to their dream. Regardless of who wins, I hope they find success.

[hypmic-translation]

TOMOSHIBI

CHORUS Turning our hardships into flow, overcoming that which we couldn’t control (yeah) Shinjuku’s luring lights have been let go, been let go, been let go (1) Even the smallest of lights can still glow, and illuminate us So let’s go! We’ll run ahead - our fangs are ready, spitting out my verse

JAKURAI If it might keep me from tripping over my own feet I would help whoever needs me This wish, made to some unknown power No more will I allow it to consume me I’ve stopped counting the things that I’ve lost Now I will fight with what’s left of my anguish My story is unknown, concealed in darkness So I will search for what makes me “myself”

DOPPO “A renewed inspiration for musical creation Having you around, sensei, is the best kind of medicine”

JAKURAI I will put more faith in myself It is fine, you are both here by my side Keep on moving forwards, and don’t ever look back Head towards freedom from this labyrinth’s walls I will bring salvation to everyone, all over Japan No more will this goldfish tear away from my net

CHORUS Turning our hardships into flow, overcoming that which we couldn’t control (yeah) Shinjuku’s luring lights have been let go, been let go, been let go Even the smallest of lights can still glow, and illuminate us So let’s go! We’ll run ahead - our fangs are ready, spitting out my verse

HIFUMI I have a phobia that keeps me closed off like firm tofu But when I put on my suit, of course I outgrow that (2) I want to understand how you express yourself Encouraging my maternal instincts even more today Barely able to stand, staying strong on my knees (3) Don’t turn your back on my emotional instability Conveyed through these words Today may be cold, but still I can’t yet part From this suit I want to gently cover you with (uh) You’ve always been special, my only one The days I spoke those scripted words are coming to an end Sensei and Doppo, I strive to reach them both

JAKURAI “Now together, our three hands shall open this frozen door”

HIFUMI As one, we’ve come to talk and rely on one another Exposing insides, breaking shells, fighting with our scattered flow Putting everything we have into making flowers bloom in this so-called dead earth

CHORUS Turning our hardships into flow, overcoming that which we couldn’t control (yeah) Shinjuku’s luring lights have been let go, been let go, been let go Even the smallest of lights can still glow, and illuminate us So let’s go! We’ll run ahead - our fangs are ready, spitting out my verse

DOPPO I have become my company’s hands and feet In order to keep from getting fired, I work twice as hard All those times I thought “why is it always me?” Honestly, I already knew I was being bitter out of habit Overtime nightscape, there’s still darkness within moonlight Shouting out all these emotions in metropolis Tokyo Acting before speaking, I’ll muster all my courage

HIFUMI “Don’t worry, we’ll always be right here behind you”

DOPPO Good morning, sir! Let me lay out a proposal This isn’t just flattery, it’s full-fledged grovelling Instead of a train strap, I’ll grip my mic and sing So long as I finish work on time, the future outside won’t be dark To the verses supporting me, there’s only one answer Someday I’ll soak my pillow with drool instead of tears Who can I beat while beating myself down? I don’t care for tricks, just an overwhelming sound

JAKURAI With my stethoscope I also hold a “microphone” With this chord I will breathe out my “rhyme and flow”

HIFUMI Bring me any number of “ice shots” Just don’t get drunk off me and I’ll give you my “love”

DOPPO Getting the train to work, I’m “on my way” Swaying with the crowd every day “like a liveshow”

MTR If you try to run away there’ll be “no tomorrow” Determinedly facing the morning together, “life goes on”

CHORUS Turning our hardships into flow, overcoming that which we couldn’t control (yeah) Shinjuku’s luring lights have been let go, been let go, been let go Even the smallest of lights can still glow, and illuminate us So let’s go! We’ll run ahead - our fangs are ready, spitting out my verse

MTR The three of us are going to win this thing, singing without end from here on out The might of just one person won’t open this door, now is the time for us to move forward We don’t have the luxury of slowing down, constantly reaching out towards the moon Hoping that the light we see will never disappear

NOTES:

“Luring lights” is more literally “fire for luring fish at night”, which is the practise of creating a fire on a fishing boat in order to lure them closer. Obviously the fishing reference is purposeful here.

I phrased this the way I did because Hifumi uses the word “卒業” which is “graduation/moving on from something”. It gave me the impression that he knows his Host persona is more mature than his true, childlike self, and wants to grow up a little bit.

The wordplay here was difficult to convey… Hifumi says “どんと” which is an onomatopoeic word for “using all of one’s strength” - but it’s also another way of saying “drinking and vomiting”, which is a technique hosts use on the job in order to stay mostly sober throughout the night. He follows this up with “座って” which is “to sit/hold still”, so I went with the imagery of him on his knees to allude to the throwing up thing while trying to maintain his desire to appear strong.

[ornisapiens]

Some drafts of a peraxil based fan-character for Serina. The silhouette is newer and better looking, so it goes first. I’ve included a human to illustrate Timber’s height, and made them hold hands as if he’s touring Earth’s cities and asking lots of questions. The sketch is from a spontaneous stream I did during December from memory, hence why his body was rounder and his face finchier than the species of his inspiration. Since I don’t use a mic, notes were sketched on canvas or typed into chat. Details were kept on the vague side as I didn’t want to raise hopes and let people down in case this ended up in the trash bin. It also plays a little bit with the canon like taffy candy.

So... to reiterate Timber’s origins, he popped into my head while I was reading the project via text-to-speech as a narrator character with a penchant for weather forecasts. He speaks with a playful cadence and doesn’t always pronounce words the way we do. Think if Microsoft Mark had a little more emotional/tonal range and that’s roughly the pitch and texture for him.

Timber is an outdoorsy dude largely by obligation, since he has nowhere else to be if not hunkered inside temporary shelter, built or found. Through a combination of his sapience, its ensuing isolation, and sheer boredom, Timber occupied himself with skill-building activities that would eventually aid him on his journeys. He seldom stays in one place, driven by his stomach and a need to satisfy his curiosity of the world around him. It began with uncovering a bug he’d never seen before, which was an unexpected and positive outcome of his father driving him away from the family. It was then he really took in the sight of his surroundings, the trees thinned out to open skies, and he didn’t know why. He has seen biomes that his species hasn’t, with a preference for temperatures slightly warmer than his native habitat. On occasion, some of his rounds bring him back home and he can be seen swinging through the branches.

It doesn’t mean he feels entirely at home with other whitecloaks, and not for a lack of trying. Encounters were sometimes unfriendly to him, even met with violence, which ultimately drove him away.

Timber’s favourite foods are insects and other metamorph species larvae. With some exceptions he’ll eat just about any arthropod, exoskeleton and all. He’d probably do handstands and sing the alphabet backwards to get some lobster from you.

Meeting other sophonts would make him squeak and gesticulate happily, if it’s safe to do so. While his intentions are good, he can come across as insensitive in his questions concerning social norms, traditions, and physical traits.

Humans would make his head spin. Our jaws, forward-set eyes, and ear structure are especially uncanny and interesting to him. He will look you up and down with one eye.

He’ll bring snails and or hug a friend to comfort them. If neither is an option, he’ll apologize and scramble to try something else.

Timber’s OCEAN index scores are highly open, mid to highly conscientious, highly extraverted, highly agreeable, and mid neurotic. If we’re going by human standards, that is.

Last Edited: August 2024 -I didn’t like the implications of his relations within the species and felt it was too heavy and prone to mishandling for what’s largely an overwritten joke character.

[springdandelixn]

Dancing in the Kitchen

Steve Rogers x F!Reader

Summary: You accidentally reveal your feelings to Steve through a song.

Warnings: nothing really—all fluff

A/N: This idea has been brewing in my head when I first heard this song (you’ll find it below) and I just had to write it. Unbeta so may be a bit sloppy but I hope it’s a goodie.

I no longer hold a tag list but if you wish to be updated with new fics I release, follow my archives blog, @springdandelixn-archives and turn on the notifications.

Drabble as this may be, your feedback would mean so much to me. Reblogs would be great too for it will help my story flourish. And as always, I hope you enjoy! 💙

It was a tough mission and he’s glad he’s home. 

The halls of the compound were dark as Steve drags himself through the halls, helmet in his hand and shoulders slumping in exhaustion. Bucky and Sam had already called it a night after stepping out of the jet, stalking to their quarters, and leaving Steve to wander. 

It was his usual routine, walking around to clear his head despite how late it would be. A peace he’s found himself indulging in just to leave the burden of the mission behind. He was happy though for the mission was indeed a success—more Hydra soldiers caught and thrown behind bars but still, the fatigue overpowered the joy. 

It was silent, just how he liked it, as he made his way to the common room. But the singular light shining in the kitchen and the soft hum of someone singing takes his attention and he stalks towards the room even further. 

And that’s when he sees you. 

Opening and closing cabinets and taking out a bowl before shoving what he spies is a bag of popcorn into the microwave. You don’t seem to notice him so he takes his time in the shadows, a smile on his lips as he admires the carefree aura that you exude. 

He’s not told anyone but Bucky of his feelings for you. How he was immediately smitten when Tony first introduced you as Maria’s replacement in overseeing their activities. He was subtle with his attraction, simply being the gentleman that everyone knew him to be. But as each day that’s turned into months and eventually a year, his infatuation grew even further that he dare even say that he’s come to love you. 

It wasn’t simply because you were beautiful—but you were just as beautiful on the inside. Being more caring than authoritative to the team. Understanding when it came to his best friend and not being forceful when it came to taxing missions. The team thought you to be soft at first, a comment he, Bucky, and Sam, never appreciated. But they’ve come to appreciate it even more especially when they realized that the way you treated them, and took care of them, was what they truly needed.

And he fell even more when you showed such sweetness towards him. When everyone, especially Tony, would make fun of him for his lack of knowledge in the present, you’d be there to defend him, being feisty and telling off Tony and oh how Steve basked in such a sight.

But what he liked, or rather loved best was your calming presence. That at times, you would sit with him and simply be there for him when he’s about to face such intense task and other times join him in his solitude walks, not talking or even asking how the mission went, but rather just enjoying the night or the day and allowing the tension within him to seep out.

You were the serenity after the storm.

“Swear the only one I want is you, and it doesn’t matter what we do,”

His eyes grow wide when you start singing, no longer humming as you moved through the counter. 

“We could fly around the world but we always end up dancing in the kitchen.”

He could feel his heart grow full, the smile on his face growing wide as he watches you dance silly in front of the stove. You take one of the spatulas from the drawers and pretended it to be a mic, your hand at your chest as you belted out the lyrics with such emotions. 

He starts walking forward, placing his helmet quietly on the low table of the common room and making his way to you. He calls your name once but it surprises him that you don’t answer, then he notices the small white bud on your ear and it makes a chuckle leave his lips, his heart feeling full by just watching your bubbly state. 

“I could spend a thousand nights right here inside this room.”

He couldn’t help but agree with the lyrics you sing. That as long as he’s with you, nothing would truly matter and everything would be alright in this gruesome world.

“Tell me, Stevie, if you feel the same way that I do.  Ohh~ swear the only one I want is you.”

Did he hear correctly? Did you mix his name into the song? He blinks his eyes and stands frozen, jaw going slack as he continues to watch you move about the kitchen. 

So many questions flit through his head all at once that he could feel his heart beating hard against his chest. His fingers flex as he asks the same question you unknowingly asked him: Do you feel the same way that I do?

He feels a sudden jolt of courage run through his bones and he finds himself moving, walking towards you. He must know, he must take this chance, for if he doesn’t, if he misses this window of opportunity, he isn’t sure when it will show itself again and he wouldn’t forgive himself if it reached another year or before he gets his answer. 

Crossing the counter, he stands before you, hands taking hold of your hips when you accidentally bump against his chest. Your eyes are wide when you turn but they soften almost immediately when you see him, a sweet smile on your face. 

“Stevie, you scare—”

But your words never make it past your lips as he cups your face and leans down to press his lips against yours. And oh how it was just as he imagined, soft and innocent, sweet and pure and he wills himself to hold back, to move his lips gently and treasure each moment that he’s taking. A smile forms on his lips when he feels you kiss him back, your arms wrapping around his neck and he takes it as a sign to pull you close, to hold you flush against him that he never wants to let go. 

You both eventually part for air but Steve keeps his hold around you, his forehead pressing against yours as he inhales deeply, his nose kissed by your sweet scent and popcorn. 

“What were you listening to?” He asks softly, not wanting to break the bubble that’s formed around the both of you. 

You giggle at his question but don’t respond, instead, pulling off one of your earbuds and placing it snug in his ear before taking your phone out of your pajama pocket and replaying the song. 

“City lights looking like ice underneath the stars. Beautiful but I’d rather be right here where we are.”

Steve sways you with him slowly as the music plays in his ear, taking in the melody and the lyrics. He hums softly to the tune as his hands frame your waist, holding you to him and sighing in content when you rest your cheek against his chest, your hands on his shoulders while both of you slow dance in the kitchen.

It was a tough mission but Steve’s glad he’s finally home.

[puppy-steve]

take this as a little practice run for finding the right voices for this group. takes place in '88-'89, roughly, with an outsider pov.

read on ao3

-

Corroded Coffin plays a gig at some dive bar outside Chicago and Steve, Robin and Nancy are there sitting at the bar. The show starts and the whole time Steve watches Eddie with stars in his eyes, like his boyfriend just hung the goddamn moon for him. Nancy and Robin are used to it so they're not paying attention but the bartender, Jack, looks at him with pity, thinking he's another fan who thinks he has a real shot with someone in the band. After the second set and with Steve still laser focused on the stage, he's got to be the one to unfortunately shatter the little bubble he's living in. Jack sets a glass of whiskey down in front of him, startling him a bit.

"Look, kid," he says. "I've worked here a while, seen bands come and go in this place and there's always a couple of guys who have the same exact look as you do."

The boy tilts his head, confused.

"All starry eyed and hopeful, thinking that they're gonna be the one that makes it back to the bus."

The kid has half the sense to at least look a little embarrassed, but he shakes his head. "Nah, man. It's not like that, believe me."

Jack rolls his eyes. "I've been watching you for a while, kid, you're not exactly slick. There's been enough people come crawling back here with their tails between their legs because their fantasies were busted by guys like that."

He points to the stage where Eddie is doing his bit with Jeff, both singing into one mic and Eddie presses a sloppy kiss to his cheek before moving back to his spot. Steve holds back his grin as the audience gets louder. Robin and Nancy go absolutely wild in front of him, having moved closer when the band stepped onstage.

Jack sighs and picks up the rag he was using to wipe down the counter. "I'm just trying to look out for you." He points to the glass. "That's on the house, by the way."

Steve is still a little confused by the interaction, watching Jack for a second before turning his attention back to his boyfriend. Eddie catches his eye and puckers his lips in a kiss, and Steve doesn't hold back his grin, putting two fingers in his mouth and whistling. Eddie laughs.

By the end of the show, Eddie is covered in sweat and amped up with adrenaline, grinning from ear to ear as they thank the crowd and the bar for having them. They help the roadies pack up their instruments and gear into the trailer hitched onto the back of Eddie's van before cleaning themselves up to join the crowd. Jeff and Gareth are the first ones out of the green room and immediately make a beeline for the bar, only stopping for a few autographs and to chat with fans. The band knew the three of them would be there and they looked forward to having their own little corner to themselves for the rest of the night.

Jack gives Steve a raised eyebrow when they walk up and Robin gushes about how good they were. The don't say I didn't warn you goes unsaid. Steve shakes his head and launches into the conversation, his back turned toward the stage.

They hear Eddie before they actually see him.

Well, they don't hear Eddie so much as they hear the crowd when he comes out of the hallway leading to the green room. He's changed from his stage outfit into a faded Poison tee and a pair of what Steve knows are his comfy jeans. Ripped at the knees and thighs and almost threadbare. Steve has told him a thousand times to thow them out but the boy's as stubborn as a mule.

Girls and guys alike flock around him like he's the Messiah to get even a fraction of his time and Eddie eats it up eagerly, the attention whore. He signs autograph after autograph and turns offers of going back to random hotels as gently as he can before he can finally break free.

"Y'know, sometimes I think he's the only reason we have fans in the first place," Gareth muses, leaning his elbows on the bar. "Dude's a natural performer."

Eddie finally makes it over to them and, to absolutely no one's surprise (but definitely Jack's), he pulls Steve in for a kiss with one hand on his waist and the other cupping the back of his neck. The others groan and Steve giggles a delighted "baby" into Eddie's mouth when he starts to get a little handsy.

Eddie pulls away with one last peck. "Sorry, sweetheart, you know how I get when I see you in my clothes."

Steve raises an eyebrow. "Really? Robin's wearing your shirt, too, and I don't see you making out with her," he teases.

Robin gags and Eddie gives her a mock apologetic look over Steve's shoulder. "Sorry, Buckley, but I think it's best if we see other people. You know how it goes, it's not you, it's me, yada yada."

"I completely agree, Munson," Robin nods seriously.

Steve taps his palm on Eddie's chest. "Before I forget, I was given instructions to tell you that when we get back to Hawkins tomorrow, you have to call Henderson immediately. He's missed his dad, so your place will probably be filled with kids the whole day."

"And what if we wanted to stay in Chicago an extra day?" Gareth asks, even though he knows they won't. "See the sights and all that bullshit."

Nancy scoffs. "Are you kidding? Your mom clocked us as soon as we walked in and said that she's proud of you, but she wants to go home."

Steve laughs as Gareth puts a hand over his heart. "Wounded by my own mother! The betrayal!"

Eddie shakes his head. "And does Henderson remember we've been on the road for three weeks? I get back to Hawkins, I'm not leaving my trailer for a week. He can have some patience."

"Patience? These kids?" Robin laughs. "They wouldn't know patience if it bit them in the ass."

From the conversation that Jack is trying oh so hard not to eavesdrop on, he picks up that they're all friends and have known each other for a considerable amount of time. High school, maybe? And going by the way the band's guitarist swooped in and planted one on the kid, they've been together for a while also. So, not a wannabe groupie. Just a lovesick boyfriend. Jack can understand that. He can also see, now, the matching guitar pick necklaces they're wearing.

Eventually, the group decides to call it a night.

"By the way," the kid, Steve, says to him, slapping cash on the counter. His arm is around Eddie's waist and Eddie's is around his shoulder. He throws him a wink before turning to leave. "It's a van, not a bus."