#and why hilson was always on course

[thankstothe]

What he does is who he is

[kagamicyan]

Wilson seems very depressed and doesn't want to see anyone , he shut himself on his apartment

I am some selfish moron? I know he wants to be alone yet i want to be there with him taking some of his pain away and be the one that puts a smile on his face

It's now or never I knock his door

-what do you want ? The voice came so distant , tired and more husky than usual

I hesitate and shyly ask him , if he is up to some cereal night

-No but it would be fun if we can watch old cartons and just be there in silence - mmm fine I just take a shower .

While he is taking his shower I decided to do the same nothing more refreshing than eating cereal with cold milk that is in the freezer for like half an hour to ease my soul.

And there we are in his room I ask him if he is ready to eat he nods I serve two perfect cold cereal bowls a perfect mixture of cold holy grail of sugar and carbs nothing more perfect to bring memories of better times .

Just two grown up men on their jammies eating cereal

I know we are not speaking at all we are just there

Eating together in the company of the other we have all we need right now.

I'm just taking all the stuff and I was ready to leave

- you don't need to go it's ok if you stay a little longer

He proceeded to lay on his bed and make space for me to jump in , not literally that would break the bed

I just lay there when suddenly Wilson just put his legs and all his weight on me I froze a little but don't say nothing after some time in silence I just say:

can we watch something while you are crushing me ?

-But I'm sure you love being crushed

-im autistic you know ? Of course I love it

But you corrupted my flower who will marry me now?

- don't be a dramatic house everybody leaves , remember?

But not him that's why even when he don't want to be with anyone he push himself in his life.

They just lay there in the bed in each other company house shyly hug Wilson and spoon him he feels Wilson hug him with their legs and feels warm so warm almost like crying, he has done so much for me I just want to do the same i was so ungrateful with him still in not doing any of this out pity it's hard to admit it but I know now without a doubt I want to be with him for the rest of our lives and if they are more than this one I want that to be reunited again and again in different worlds places and times always meeting each other like the first time , he may not know I'm me and wil not know it's him but still feel like we know each other and again just laugh together, kiss for the first time again maybe this time under the rain and just embrace each other

a simple word take me to reality - Thanks I had a lot fun I just simply nod and we fall sleep.

Disclaimer

This is my first attempt to write a short scene

English is not my first language and I was supposed to sleep early I have to work in like half an hour but I was just scrolling the hilson tag and thought I always say I'm gonna write so I write something

[majorbaby]

as someone who has Feelings about House (I was watching it when I became disabled so oof), do spill the House takes?

Gregory House is a relic of early 2000s, vaguely Dane-Cookian, edgelord-style comedy so it's somewhat amusing to watch tumblr blorbify him. It gives me the sense that people are unaware that he's the type to unironically say, "I'm not racist, I hate all races equally". Blorbofication seems to to really rely on projecting on a character, or identifying with them, and House is a character who should be blorbofied with care. Of course you can identify with a character that makes poor choices and behaves badly while simultaneously condemning those actions IRL, but honestly, there seems to be a lot of irony-turned-sincere in the "asshole (affectionate)" sector of various fandoms these days and the push to rehabilitate House in fanwork so that he's a better person leaves me with a lot of questionmarks.

the rest of this is beneath a cut because it got super super long, sorry about that!

Here's one thing I do like about him: sometimes his unabashed assholery allowed House to do and say more progressive things than any heroic protagonist could ever say on television at the time, because radical speech is almost always an affront to the status quo. House could be pro-choice, staunchly atheist and practically allergic to any kind of traditional romantic relationship, and this was all acceptable to audiences because House is intentionally written as an asshole.

He's still an asshole though, in plenty of ways that aren't cute or excusable. The show and the character are plenty misogynist, racist, homophobic and yeah, House is disabled himself, but he's also ableist towards his patients. I'm not pointing these things out to say "don't watch this show because it's bad" but they're also unavoidable truths about the show. It's not subtle at all either, and it extends to production. House MD is famous for its wacky plotlines and doctors committing all kinds of medical malpractice or outright felonies, with the exception of Foreman who got less material because, as House would put it, "black guy". This kind of works out for Foreman because by virtue of getting much less material beyond "only sane man" or "voice of reason" or "endlessly patient with his racist boss", he's the most normal of the cast, and it made sense for him to succeed Cuddy at the end of the series. Every woman on the show exhibits saint-like patience towards him. Cuddy, Cameron and Thirteen could've collaborated to quietly murder this guy and I'd be shocked (well. would I??? this show did some truly wacky things) but I can't say I'd feel a terrible amount of sympathy.

The issue I have with a lot of the recent fic and headcanonry around the show is this "healed by love" trope that I keep seeing pop up. House's most basic traits are that he's 1) brilliant and 2) an asshole. The show asks over and over whether or not House will ever change, and the answer is always no. If he's rehabilitated, he is no longer Gregory House. Like, write what you want but why write House if he's not going to be an asshole? Or if you are going to rehabilitate him, understand that there's 8 seasons of television that deliberately, consistently portray him as being a lost cause in terms of positive character development. I've seen the claim that he's "good disabled rep" and like, on its face I agree with that. House is in pain 24/7, his brain functions differently from other people, he struggles in social interactions, he wants to be loved in spite of knowing he is hard to love, he tries to do better but he repeatedly fails. All of these experiences have a place in fiction, but rehabilitating him revokes that place.

More specific to my own blog, I've encountered a few posts comparing beejhawk to hilson and that's on its face ridiculous. Even if we disagree that Hawkeye is a good person, MASH frames him as a good person whereasHouse is a bad person who is framed as a bad person. I'm more ambiguous towards the Wilson-BJ comparison, but at least Wilson is canonically shown to possess some of the traits that are commonly assigned to BJ within fanwork. House and Hawkeye on the other hand... like Hawkeye and Wilson have more in common with one another, Wilson being compassionate and communicative towards his friends and patients, including House when House isn't being particularly likeable (there actually might be a bit of BJ in House, lol).

imo, it's part of a trend of homogenizing ship and character dynamics, molding characters/ships/settings to certain popular tropes rather than the other way around across fandoms... to what end, I have no idea. I'm of the opinion that nothing in fanfic presents any kind of real-world "risk" in comparison to mainstream media, but it seems to me that presenting all the big gay ships as being "the same", essentially inventing new gay stereotypes is something we maaaay want to move away from. Or at least ask ourselves why we do this with gay men specifically.

okay MASH/perils-of-gay-fandom tangent over. basically, House is a mediocre show, albeit with some very good acting. it offers great fodder for fanwork because the characters are all some kind of hot mess (except for Foreman), it's got plenty of sex and drugs, and despite the fact that every medical drama to ever exist has contained all of these elements setting each other off, there's still a societal expectation that doctors and nurses have their shit together. these are people who are responsible for human life, so they can't possibly be sex-having, substance-abusing, hot messes, right?

[neverwritewhatyouknow]

I’ve been wanting to make this post for a while now, but I decided to make it my last RWRB related post. It’s clear the production will never give a statement about why they changed Nora’s character from Jewish to not, and there’s other shows and movies and productions I need to focus on. But before I switch gears, this needs to be said.

I was wrong about something and I need to just make it very clear how sorry I am to Rachel Hilson for involving her in the discourse around the movie to the degree that I did.

When I first started this blog the day the cast was revealed (over a year ago), I had no more information than anyone else. The only thing I knew about Nora that she was a Jewish character (along with everything else obvi) (book) and that Rachel was rumored to be Jewish (TikTok). In my quest to point out the antisemitism in Hollywood (a very true thing), I allowed logical thinking to guide me down an incorrect path.

That path was thinking that since Nora was Jewish in the book that of course she had to be in the movie too. It wasn’t an insane assumption, since the two options were A: A non-Jewish actress playing a Jewish role, or B: totally erasing Nora’s ethnicity. For some reason, the second option felt impossible for the longest time because to me Nora being Jewish was a part of who she was and for a good chunk of time I didn’t consider that they could separate it, plus the first happens literally sooooo much (especially on Amazon) that I was certain it was happening again.

But I was wrong. Nora’s canon Jewishness was erased very early on in the adaption and Rachel was at fault for none of it. She did an amazing job (like I knew she would), but I need to apologize for what I’ve posted. In my attempt to call out Hollywood for once again casting a non-Jewish actress for a Jewish role, as they do all the time, Rachel got caught in the cross fire and that’s not fair to her. It’s the fault of the movie’s creative team, not her. I always knew that, but I’m human, I make mistakes, and I own up to them when I do. I let the emotional impact of seeing Jewish roles played by non-Jewish actors again and again influence my posting here, and while nothing I said was incorrect regarding Hollywood’s constant erasure of Jews and even the erasure of Nora’s own Jewishness, I was wrong to loop Rachel into that the way I did. I wanted to settle the rumors that she was Jewish, and I did that, but I wish I had known that Nora was just not going to be Jewish period from the start. I should’ve focused more on option B for this movie and not A, but how was I to know when it all started? Regardless, I’m going to be going through my account this weekend and deleting anything that’s directly tied to Rachel, but it’ll take a few days.

So, to Rachel: I doubt you have tumblr, you’re an extremely busy actress and this place is a time wasting hellhole, but I know you or your team knows this account exists. If you see this or hear about this, I want you to know that I really am sorry. You don’t have to forgive me, but you deserve an apology. To anyone connected to Rachel who also feels as though they were caught up in this too, I also apologize to any and all of you.

I don’t use Instagram anymore, but I know Rachel does. If anyone DMs her this apology post, this is the disclaimer that the sender didn’t write this. She’s owed an apology and I just hope she sees it somehow.

Was my calling out of RWRB’s Jew-erasure wrong? No. Was the way I did it wrong? Yeah. I focused on the wrong things based off prior knowledge and assumptions. Truly my only regret is involving Rachel, I wish I hadn’t done that. At the time it all made sense, but even then I should’ve had the restraint and waited until I knew more. So anyway, I’m sorry about that. Hopefully Rachel will someday, somehow, someway hear about my apology and understand that I was upset about the circumstances in this movie and how often it always happens, and that she just honestly was in the wrong place at the wrong time. And for that, I’m immensely sorry.

This is my last RWRB post. Unless something crazy happens. So keep following me if you wanna hear more about antisemitism and Jew-erasure in Hollywood, but I think I’ve exhausted all the things I can say. Thanks to anyone who’s supported me calling out the movie about their erasure, what they did wasn’t okay, but I’m ready to move on unless they say anything else about it.

[my-lover]

2/3 through s2 character updates

Chase-genuinely was confused he was Australian and not British NOT because I’m ignorant lol but because before I ever saw House I was obsessed with Jesse Williams character in Winning London, the Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen movie in which he plays a British man! Him almost clapping after House is finished juggling and says “what, no applause?” This poor boy has so many daddy issues

Foreman-honestly love him! I appreciate his level-headedness and his ability to relate to patients. He’s not blindly compassionate like Cameron but he cares a lot and uses what he has to to get through to people. I didn’t think he needed to try being the boss lmao but I get why he thought he did

Cameron-oh sweetheart. I feel like we’ve seen a dip in her after the beginning of s2, and it’s not her fault! Like the writers are kinda just ignoring her after the House stuff so I’m waiting for them to remember we love her again

House-what is he dooooing to poor Wilson like you’re gonna stop him from moving but then be a dick?? Is this because he’s worried they’re getting too close and needs to pull pigtails to cover his tracks? While not wanting to actually put distance between them and let him move out.

Wilson-we all love Wilson but my god if I had a friend irl that could not stop cheating on his partners I’d be so over him!! Please sir go to therapy!! Which is funny because he’s always telling House he should be bettering himself.

Do you have any favorite episodes in season 1 or 2 (before episode 17 because I’m on 16 as we speak)?

"Jesse Spencer LMAOO Jesse Williams is of course another dreamy doctor from Grey’s Anatomy House just wants to push Wilson so much to see if he’ll still love him 😭 my guy 😭 just ask for a kiss"

LOVEEE your thoughts so far omg !! it's so interesting seeing it from someone else's perspective !! i think you got it so right. the writers definitelyy forget cameron exists for an arc or two, haha, but i do really enjoy what they /eventually/ end up doing with her character. i really liked foreman for a while ! the end of season 2 flipped that on its head, though, and now i kind of just appreciate him for what he does to the plot / story structure

AND YESSS i just finished s2 on my own rewatch, and the hilson moments are CRAZY !! insane !! i adore their domestic era, but god house is possibly the worst roommate i can imagine hahah and yes !! i loveee wilson, but omg he would drive me insane. i think it's hilarious how big of a hypocrite he is and i love him for it

i think my favourite eps are definitely house & wilson's prank war in s2, and i just adore three stories from s1 !! what about you ??

and also i cracked UP at jesse williams hahaha omg i also love him in grey's <33

[itstimetodrew]

You know that post about a redditor joining Tumblr and realizing that the Star Wars community on Tumblr was making gay edits of their favorite characters. I've been here for about a year now and I never really got it until I watched house and saw how much people on here loved to ship Hilson, but of course that wasn't really a shock to me because actually I watched house because of how weird people on Tumblr were about it. and if you asked me before I saw your account I would say there is no way you can ship any guys from Frasier because they're all family but nope you decided to just entirely pick a different piece of media and ship them together, and then proceeded to make probably the best edit I've seen, for characters that never talk to each other. not really an ask, I mean I could ask why but I have seen the results and know that they rock so...

ps. I put all the fucking colors in there because I hate walls of text I always lose my spot.

That’s the power of NormNiles!! 🫶💚💛

[helaenasupremacy]

The Way I Are

Summary: Helaena Targaryen has to attend a dinner alone with Jason Lannister and Johanna Westerling. She is bored to death by his talks and has too many cups of wine to manage the situation.

Word count: 1565

Genres: Fluff and comedy

Song inspo: The Way I Are by Timbaland, Keri Hilson, D.O.E., Sebastian

Author's note: Hello! Oh em gee I'm actually posting a fanfiction. I wrote this earlier in May. I'm totally open to requests for House of The Dragon characters so if you wanna see anything specific, please let me know. Other then that, enjoy!

Helaena Targaryen had no taste for wine. She found the liquid bitter on her tongue, preferring something far sweeter such as apple juice. It was immature of her yet she found it comforting. It was something that hadn’t changed since her childhood. She shared her father’s trait of having a sweet tooth. Viserys would always ask for dessert before the rest of the royal table was done eating (something Helaena took great advantage of when she could). Her husband, Aegon, had quite the taste for alcohol. She found she had nursed him through more hangovers than either of them cared to admit. She had never been drunk, she couldn’t see why he would reach for another jug after throwing up the contents of his first. It couldn’t be worth the pounding headaches she had to guide him through nor the way it heightened his anxiety. 

Yet on one particular night, she found herself gripping her goblet filled with the grape. She was at a dinner, in the presence of Lord Jason Lannister and his lady wife Johanna Westerling. Aegon was spending some much needed time with the twins. Jaehaerys and Jaehaera were three. They constantly asked for him after learning how to speak. It was endearing enough for her husband to set his cups aside for a day to bond with them. Her mother was tending to her father, his sickness had spread throughout his body and the King spent most of his days in unbearable pain. Aemond had no care for the Lannisters and had the ability to merely decline an invitation to the dinner (a luxury Helaena wished she could have). This left the young woman alone, a polite yet strained smile on her face as she listened to another round of Jason’s ramblings about Casterly Rock’s winery. 

The girl kept sipping from her cup as the Lord went on and on about things she had no care for. She was not interested in the reputation nor the profitability of his business endeavours. The Red Keep had no ties to the Lannisters besides their eagerness to see Aegon take the throne over Rhaenyra once their father’s sickness took him. One goblet of wine became two, became three, became four until she had had several full chalices of the drink. It was safe to say she felt the effects kicking in. She had been eating alongside her beverage but after a certain point, the food didn’t soak up nearly enough for her to not be drunk. She was slouched in her seat, her violet eyes barely peeking over the edge of the table. She rolled them and dramatically tilted her head back to the ceiling as she heard another rant begin leaving the lion’s lips, this time about his condolences surrounding the King’s illness and how he looked forward to Aegon’s coronation (the one even the young prince didn’t wish to happen).

“You do not seem to understand, my Lord, but it is my half-sister, Rhaenyra, who shall be ascending the throne instead of my husband.. an arrangement we both think is best,” the girl said once she had enough of the blonde’s rambles.

Jason gave a curt smile. “Why, of course, my Lady.”

“Princess,” Helaena was quick to correct, pushing herself up in her seat so that her posture was back to its usual placement. She settled her elbow on the table, her cheek pressed against her fist. Her gaze bore into his, awaiting the apology she was owed after such a mistake. It never came. The man merely continued to eat his pie, making quiet jests to his wife. “Well then,” she said, getting to her feet and briefly stumbling as she figured out her centre of gravity since the room around her seemed to distort into unusual shapes thanks to the amount of liquor in her system, “thank you for your company this evening, Ser Lannister, Lady Johanna,” she gave a brief nod to them both, “but I ought to take my leave. Please enjoy dessert on my behalf.” She turned to leave, her silver hair moving against her back.

“It is Lord Lannister, your highness,” Jason spoke up, a bewildered look on his face.

Helaena didn’t grace him with a response, taking brisk steps out of the hall they were dining in. 

The Princess began walking through the empty corridors back to her own chambers. During her journey, she decided that her pumps against the rocky stone floor were doing her balance no favours. She lazily kicked her shoes off, reaching down to pick them up. With one heel in each hand, she continued to make her way back to her room. Everything felt strangely fuzzy, her senses dulled. It was a new experience for her. She had never drank enough to be tipsy before nevermind inebriated (she let her husband drink enough wine for the both of them). She giggled at the thought. Her? Drunk? If Aemond were here, she knew he would be struggling to believe his eyes.. eye.. she giggled again which caused a few of the maids to cast worried glances toward her. She awkwardly coughed, straightening her posture out as she approached her and Aegon’s room. She didn’t know what her husband’s reaction would be to her solution for handling Lord Lannister’s rambles. She doubted he would’ve reacted differently other than drinking more than she had. She pushed open one of the two wooden doors that lead into their room, blinking at the sight.

Aegon was sat on their bed, cross-legged, working little braids out of his short and shaggy hair. His eyes shifted from where his hands were tugging out the plaits, seeing his wife. “I thought the dinner was meant to go on until midnight? Surely it isn’t that late?” He asked.

Helaena merely blinked at him again, her head tilting. “Are those.. your fringe has been braided?” She asked.

“Very astute of you,” Aegon grumbled back, working out the last two twists, “the twins wished to make one of us a princess.. I suggested maybe that is something Jaehaera would enjoy, the two shook their head in unison and I was made Princess Dada of Westeros.”

“If it makes you feel any better, you are an awfully pretty princess,” Helaena said, unable to stop the grin pulling at the corners of her lips. 

“It does make me feel better, thank you so much,” her husband replied, his hands falling to his lap. His hair was left curlier then it usually was due to their children’s work. He looked at her for a moment, “Helaena Elanor Targaryen.. you are drunk.”

The girl felt herself straighten up again at his assumption, her hands twisting in the fabric of her skirt. “Very astute of you,” she mumbled back lamely. 

Her husband’s face turned into a devilish grin. Aegon got to his feet, walking over to her. He set his hands on her shoulders, keeping her steady as she seemed to be swaying on the spot. “Ñuha jorrāelagon, nyke would daor pirtir naejot ao.  Lannisters issi qopsa naejot rȳbagon naejot syt tolī bōsa mijegon mirri averilla,” [My dear, I would not lie to you. Lannisters are hard to listen to for too long without some wine] he said smoothly, his thumbs brushing over the fabric of her dress.

Helaena grunted in agreement, her body tilting forward so that his hands held more of her weight. Everything felt heavier, even her hair. 

“Ivestragī īlva jiōragon ao naejot ēdrugon, Helaena,” [Let us get you to sleep, Helaena] Aegon spoke again, keeping his voice nice and soft to reduce the chances of her getting a headache. One was likely to happen but he’d be damned if he was the cause of it. 

“Uh huh,” Helaena mumbled in agreement, beginning to move further into the room. Aegon moved to her side with one arm wrapped around her waist, the one now furthest from her body still settled on her shoulder to keep her steady. 

Aegon guided her towards the bed, carefully setting her down on top of the blankets. He took her heels, putting them at the bottom of the bed. “Do you need some water? A snack?” He asked, kneeling down in front of her. He took her hands within his own, his thumbs brushing across her knuckles. 

“Hm.. you’re cute,” she mumbled back lazily, “but you talk a lot.”

“I’m glad you think so. I do talk a lot, don’t I? Enough talking then, to bed with you,” Aegon said, getting to his feet. He gently lifted her legs by her ankles, essentially spinning her to be sat horizontally on the bed.

“Hey! I am perfectly capable of putting myself to bed, ao orvorta,” [You dick] she grumbled, lying back with her head comfortably landing on the pillows. Her husband merely chuckled, leaning down to press a loving kiss to her forehead.

“I am sure you are, ñuha jorrāelagon,” [My dear] he murmured, “I will see you in the morning where, I assure you, you will be begging me for that cup of water I offered. I love you.” He pulled the duvet up to her shoulders, tucking her in.

“I love you, too.. even if you talk a lot,” Helaena replied, her eyes already feeling heavy but she saw the adoring smile on her husband’s face just before her eyes closed to get some much needed rest.

[atlafan]

Juvenile and Family Law, is it something that a kid dreams of practicing? No, not really. Is that where the big bucks are if you’re not interested in taxes and wills? Yes, it is. College is expensive, and so is law school; gotta pay it off somehow. It takes a while to build your clientele, a lot of it is word of mouth. You work your way up, and slowly but surely, build a good reputation for yourself. And if you’re lucky, you’ll make partner.

Harry Styles is good at his job, and is on the brink of making partner at his firm. Gallagher, Hilson & Associates Family Law is a great place to work. Isaiah Gallagher and Maria Hilson are two incredible lawyers, and the other associates Harry works with aren’t too bad either. He doesn’t always love working nearly sixty hours a week, and some of the cases he handles have caused him to see the bottom of one too many bottles, but other than that, he’s happy.

Family Law means working all kinds of cases. Custody, spousal support, paternity, and divorce. All of those cases are messy, rarely are they clean cut. Harry happens to specialize in divorce, which in turn can lead to all of the other things listed above. What’s worse is that a lot of his clients will often flirt with him, so he’s started to wear a fake wedding band to ward off any and all inappropriate behavior. It doesn’t happen every time, but it was often enough that he decided to find a way to just avoid the unwanted attention.

Due to how many hours he works a week, Harry’s social life is a little lackluster. By the time he gets home work, all he wants to do is kick his shoes off, plop down on the couch with some greasy Chinese food, and catch up on some television. He lives in a nice enough building in the city. His apartment has one bedroom, and one and half baths. On Friday nights, he’ll go out with some of the other associates for a drink, so he gets a bitof social time in. He’s not lonely, he actually quite enjoys the quiet and solitude. He’s got a cat, Gerry, short for Geraldine that he takes care of. He has what he needs, and he’s perfectly content.

Whenever he dates, people always want to talk about his work. The last thing Harry wants to talk about after a long day at work, is more work. So, he sticks to meaningless hookups, and his own hand, when he needs that type of release.

He doesn’t have too much to complain about. He’s thirty, and massively successful. Some of his friends still live at home while working retail jobs, not that he’s judging. He was twenty-six when he moved out, and he’s grateful his parents let him stay rent free so he could save up for his own place. He doesn’t like to compare himself to others, but it makes him feel good to know he’s all set. He works hard, yes, but it’s all worth it.

//

With how quiet his personal life is, it’s hard to imagine Harry being a shark in the courtroom, but he is. He’s a master in the art of persuasion and rhetoric. Having been a communication major in his undergrad career, and all. He knows how to read a room, and how to read people. The jury is just an audience waiting to watch a live performance. His theater minor also comes in handy here. Being a lawyer is an act, a role he plays. He knows how to play the part when it’s in a large courtroom, or when it’s just a small meeting in a conference room to divide up assets. It’s not always easy, but he makes it look that way. Harry typically wins most of his cases, and when it’s something small, he’s usually able to get his client the majority of what they asked for. Every customer leaves happy.

These skills can’t all be taught and learned. Some people are born with natural talent, skills they learn to hone in on and perfect. It’s a craft that Harry has worked on for years. Again, he’s only thirty, but because he has such precision and talent, it makes him the hot commodity. The office is constantly getting calls for him. It’s why they want him to become the next partner. Having his name on the plaque as you enter would surely put people at ease. Isaiah and Maria saw potential in Harry from the beginning, and they feel lucky that he’s one of their associates.

There other very qualified associates as well, like Niall – who specializes in custody cases – he’s well on his way up. There’s Candice – who specializes in prenuptial agreements – she got into the lawyer game a little later in life, but she’s as sharp as a whip, and shouldn’t be underestimated. And lastly, there’s Byron – who specializes in paternity cases – he thinks he’s going to be the next partner because he’s a bit full of himself.

Harry and Niall are the closest in age, so they hang out more often. They both really like baseball, and will go to a game or two during the season. Candice is the surrogate mother figure. She has no children of her own, she’s the fun aunt to her nieces and nephews, but she feels oddly maternal towards Harry and Niall. The boys often call her “Ma”, instead of her actual name, and she loves it. She looks out for them, and there when they need someone to listen. She’s fifty-seven, and enjoys baking in her free time. She often brings the boys homemade muffins on Monday mornings, and they adore her for it.

Byron…well…Byron is a forty-year-old womanizer who totally clashes with Harry. Does Harry have one-night stands? Yes. Does he ever lie to his partners? No. Byron enjoys playing the game in all facets, and Harry never takes part in it. Needless to say, Harry hates when he has to partner with him on a case, and avoids it when he can.

Isaiah and Maria each have their own executive assistant, or para: Michele and Kyla. They’re both in their late twenties, and rocking it. Harry only interacts with them over email. He, Candice, Niall, and Byron all share the same administrator: Ronnie. Ronnie is twenty-six, friendly, and organized. She doesn’t have time to help everyone on their briefs, but that’s what interns are for, and there’s an abundance of them circling throughout the office.

Harry has a nice office. Plenty of natural light from the windows, he has a desk riser so he can stand up periodically, and he even has his own mini fridge. (He’s often paranoid about people taking his Bubbly, so he just brought in his own fridge.) He’s got a decent enough view of the city; he likes it best at night when the twinkling lights come through. It reminds him of how lucky he is to be where he is in life. He knows he’s more fortunate than others, so he tries to be grateful. He gives back when he’s able, donate to different scholarship funds and whatnot.

Harry is a good man.

//

On a particularly cloudy morning, Ronnie lets Harry know his 10AM consult has arrived. He didn’t know much about his new potential client, but he was always willing to hear someone out. He stands up from his desk, and waits for the woman to enter.

In walks a young woman wearing an expensive, red pantsuit, black heels, and a dark red lipstick. She gives a soft smile to Ronnie before she closes the door. Harry walks over to her, extending his hand.

“Hi, I’m Harry.”

“Mira.” She shakes his hand.

“Please, have a seat.” He gestures to the two seats on the other side of his desk and they both sit. “What brings you to my office today?”

“I heard you’re a pretty good divorce lawyer, and I need a divorce.”

“Is your spouse aware that you’re seeking counsel?”

“No.” She shakes her head and swallows. “I…I’d be putting myself in danger if he knew I wanted to leave him.”

“What kind of danger? If he’s physically abusive, then you need to- “

“He doesn’t put his hands on me like that. It’s…I don’t love him, and I never have. I was essentially…I was sold to him; it was an arranged marriage. I thought maybe I could learn to like him, to love him, but it’s been three years, and I can’t stand him. I need legal help.”

“What do you mean you were sold to him? Were you a child bride? Were you sex trafficked?”

“No.” She chews on her bottom lip. “He made a deal with my father. Thomas got me in exchange for…something. I can’t get into what exactly with you just yet.”

“Does he think you’re happy?”

“Yes.” She nods. “Well, for the most part. I do my thing, and he does his. His job keeps him pretty busy, and I often pretend to be asleep when he gets home. He doesn’t satisfy my needs, so to speak, and I’ve given up on trying. I want to be freed from him.” She pulls out a packet of paper from her purse, and gives it to Harry. “That’s a copy of the contract he and my father signed when they made the deal. I’m not great with legal jargon. I thought maybe if you decide to take me on you could look that over and tell me if there’s any way, I can get out of this.”

“Are you over eighteen?”

“Yes, well over.”

“And were you over eighteen when you were married?”

“Yes.”

“Then how could your father barter you?”

“Where I come from…it can just be like that. The goods we get in exchange for my hand outweighed my happiness.”

“I’m so sorry.” Harry frowns. “My services aren’t exactly cheap.”

“I wouldn’t expect them to be. I can pay top dollar, if that’s what you require. I have money of my own.”

“Alright.” Harry sets the packet of papers onto his desk. “I’ll take a look at that soon, and give you a call.”

“Does that mean you’re taking me on?”

“I hate to see such a nice person be so unhappy.” Harry frowns. “I got into this business to help people, so I’ll help you, Mira.”

“Oh, thank you so much.” She smiles. “There are going to be some things in that contract that may shock you, so please don’t hesitate to call me directly with your questions.” She takes out a business card from her purse. “There’s all of my contact information. If anyone other than myself contacts you regarding all of this, don’t say a word.”

“Don’t worry, I’m good at keeping things confidential.”

“I heard you’re a very trustworthy attorney.” She nods, and stands to her feet. Harry does the same. “Thank you for taking the time to listen.” She extends her hand, and he takes it to shake.

“Of course, it’s what I’m here for.” He smiles and opens the door. He watches her leave, maybe for a little too long.

[DARK SIDED, COMING TO PATREON ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2ND @ 8AM EST] [Ask]

[chandelyer]

Dua Lipa is the new Versace girl, and I’m not even mad about it

A fashion analysis of Dua Lipa’s most iconic Versace looks, and why they make her the new Versace girl.

If you’ve been following me for a while you’ll know that I’m not into celebrity culture at all. However I do love Versace, and greatly enjoy Dua Lipa’s music, so here we are! I’ll be looking at Dua’s looks from the Future Nostalgia era, and although I am aware she wore a lot of Versace in her previous era, I don’t think she “embodied” the Versace essence enough to be called a “Versace girl”, and frankly, lots of those looks weren’t even that good.

EXHIBIT ONE: THE CHAINMAIL DRESS

It is a Versace staple. No matter where you look, the chainmal dress, in different cuts or colours is always bound to pop up whenever Versace is mentioned.

Let’s start with the one of her most recent looks, the custom-made butterfly gown she wore at the Grammys 2021.

Now this design has a lot of history! It isn’t the first time Versace has created something like this. In fact, a chainmail metal dress with butterfly designs appeared on the runway at Atelier Versace spring/summer 1999, as you can see in the picture below, modeled by Naomi Campbell. Funnily enough, the same dress was worn by Christina Aguilera at the Grammys 2000 and by Dua Lipa herself at the Grammys 2021 afterparty. Now I believe Christina had a custom-made version of this dress, given it had just come out in 1999; however I do think Dua’s dress is vintage, possibly the same dress Naomi wore on the runway, just tweaked a little bit here and there to make sure it fit her body (if you look closely for example, the neckline of Dua’s dress looks less prominent that Naomi’s).

The front of the dress clearly reminds me the famour butterfly top, which made its first apperance at Emanuel Ungaro spring 2000 couture (last picture on the right), so pretty much around the same time Versace came out with the butterfly dress above. It’s hard to know who copied who, but what’s sure is that the butterfly design was very popular at the time and was used by many different designers. 

From the right, you can see two looks from Alaia fall 1991 rtw, a gown from Versace spring 1995 (again) and butterfly jeans from Anna Sui spring 1993.

Apart from the butterfly gown, we have a few short and clear-cut chainmail dresses, and my favourite here si definitely the one Dua wore in the Levitating video (last two pictures). They are all quite similar, although the last two are more drapey, while the first one is tighter, and of course they come in different colours. The necklines are interesting too; the neckline of the first dress is much dear to the Versace house, being introduced first by Gianni Versace, and then re-used by Donatella in several of her creations. Also I love the safety pins on the “Levitating” dress, which again, are a Versace staple and can be found on countless Vesace items.

Here you can see some examples of the famed chainmail dress. On the right we have the dress Dua is wearing in the second picture above, from the Atelier Versace fall 2019 collection, while in the second picture you can see a very similar dress to the one Dua wore for Levitating, which Paris Hilson wore on her birthday at the beginning of the 2000s, and contribuited to making the chainmail dress so popular. The last two are pretty iconic, to be honest. They’re from the last collection by Gianni Versace, that is, Atelier Versace fall 1997, which is a testament to the designer’s creativy, and I highly suggest you check it out, if you’re interested. 

EXHIBIT TWO: MAKE IT BONDAGE 

If you search on google images “Versace bondage collection” you will be directed to a page filled with looks from the Versace fall 1992 collection. That’s because it is actually known as the “bondage collection”😂 

Dua sports a variety of similar bustier tops (or bodysuit, as you can see in the middle picture), in different colours, which Donatella has created for her more recent collections (the bodysuit might be custom made, I think).

EXHIBIT THREE: UNDER THE SEA

Once again, Donatella recreated one of her brother’s designs (she’s working with a lot of pre-existent material, and I do think she needs to be given credit for being so skilled at adapting Gianni’s vision and art to present collections), aka the sea shell motif.

In the pictures below, Dua is wearing a dress and a top from the Versace spring 2020, which is a tribute to Gianni Versace’s spring 1992.

CONCLUSION: SO WHY IS DUA LIPA THE NEW VERSACE GIRL?

Versace is one of the most coveted and sought-after luxury brands out there, plenty of people wear Versace and yet, not many of them can be granted the title of “Versace girl”. It’s because Donatella, her team and Dua’s team have been able to shape the brand itself around Dua’s person and her music, and more precisely around the aesthetic of her music. Whenever Dua appears on shows or on interviews and she’s wearing Versace, she looks exactly as if she’s popped out of her album’s cover and is ready to go back inot “Future Nostalgia” at the end of the show. Every look is so well-thought out, that it makes Dua a personification of her songs. Another thing that made this collaboration successful is that Versace and Dua’s team chose the right designs from the array of creations which the House of Versace is filled with. They could have gone with the famed medusa head pattern, or neon colours, or some jarring sets of tights and boots. Instead, they went for designs, which, although sometimes lesser known (the sea shell motif, for example), fit the album’s aesthetic and Dua herself.  And I normally wouldn’t care for celebrities and their fashion, however I do love seeing luxury fashion play a part in an artist’s work (whether they are an actor, singer, or whatever) and become something more thanjust luxury fashion (which is sadly normally used by all these celebrities and rich people only to display their wealth) and contribuites to creating something new and different.

HONORARY MENTION: THIS FIT

That’s all I’m gonna say, everyone.

[lokismusings]

Russell T Davies on straight actors and gay characters.

I decided to put this here because I post a lot of Hilson stuff. As an actor, this article hit a nerve. However, as a defender of free speech, Davies is allowed to have his opinion without me thinking of him as insensitive. Just like I am allowed to have my own opinion and argument, and ask questions without being labeled “homophobic, intolerant” etc. (that would just make me laugh because have you SEEN my blog? Anyway, I’ve seen a few other websites covering this article. I am also very skeptical of everything I read, including the sources, and I try not to blindly believe everything. That being said, I felt like posting this to get other opinions and ask honest question to help my understanding. If this has already been covered on Tumblr, please feel free to send me the conversations! Some background on me: I graduated with a BA in Theatre and have worked both on and off the stage since I was twelve years old. I have directed plays and an audio play. Given my experience and dedication to my craft, I think my opinion is worth something.

Also, for the sake of this argument, I am leaving trans-actors out because that’s a whole different post. Here is the article:

https://news.sky.com/story/russell-t-davies-straight-actors-should-not-play-gay-characters-12185652

Okay, so first things first, let’s talk about this: “Speaking to the Radio Times, Davies compared a straight actor playing a gay character to black face.” Something that irks me is when one person tries to speak for a whole community and doesn’t reference people from said community who might disagree: whether it’s the LGBTQ+ community, a religious community, medical community, etc. The list goes on. Here, Davies is speaking on behalf of, or speaking for, both the LGBTQ+ community and the black community, is he not? I am genuinely asking because I would like to be more educated on this kind of speech. 

Then Davies says, "I'm not being woke about this... but I feel strongly that if I cast someone in a story, I am casting them to act as a lover, or an enemy, or someone on drugs or a criminal or a saint... they are NOT there to 'act gay' because 'acting gay' is a bunch of codes for a performance.” Does that not discredit his whole statement? If any actor does a caricature version of anything and doesn’t take it seriously or really works to get into the role and the mindset of a character, they’re not a good actor. At least, they’re not an actor that I’d want to hire. Second, by the logic that a straight person shouldn’t play a gay character, should someone without a criminal record not be able to play a criminal character? Before you go off and say “it’s about identity and sexuality, and playing a criminal is about the choice to break the law” or other arguments, I hear you. I’m not talking about that. I’m talking about the experience. How can an actor who has never committed a crime play a criminal character authentically? They do their research: reading, interviewing, etc. I’m not saying that an actor with a few minor marks on his record shouldn’t be considered for the same role. I’m saying that in an audition setting, if both of these actors were auditing for the role and the non-criminal-record actor just happened to do a better job and fit what the director and/or writer wanted, is that a mark against the criminal-record-actor? Maybe personally because we don’t know what the director is thinking. But chances are, it’s not a mark against the other actor. The other one just happened to have a better audition. Or, a major factor when considering casting, said actor was easy to work with--I’ve seen a lot of talented actors lose a lot of roles because of their inability to take criticism or notes. 

Plus, the whole “Breaking Bad” series?? I highly doubt the main actors were meth-making drug-lords. Or, a better example, “The Wire?” In that show, we see the constant battle and deals between drug-lords and cops. 

Another point I’d like to make:  “...is a bunch of codes for a performance.” That’s exactly right. The audience doesn’t want to know an actor is “performing.” We know that going in, with what is called “suspension of disbelief.” We know the whole show is a performance, but we also expect the actors to be truthful (unless it’s a comedy/farce, but again, that’s a different argument). 

Was it bad that, before 2020, some main characters in TV shows were portrayed as straight but the writers ended up “queer-baiting?” I am referring, of course, to House, M.D. (If you follow this blog, you’ll understand.) But I am also referring to the BBC Sherlock Holmes series. Yes, both pairs of characters (House and Wilson; Holmes and Watson) are assumed to be straight. However, some episodes allude that there could also be something more there. Even the actors have said in various interviews that they aren’t sure if it’s a true romance that the characters are afraid to face, or just a strong bond between best friends that blurs the line between platonic and romantic. I’m paraphrasing, but you get the picture. Therefore, should these characters have only been played by straight actors who are questioning their sexuality or feelings for a best friend? Would it have been disrespectful to gay people if these characters ended up becoming romantically involved? (If we ask the Hilson and Johnlock community, I’m guessing that’s a resounding “NO WAY! IT WOULD BE A DREAM COME TRUE!” xD <3) 

“It's about authenticity, the taste of 2020.” *Cinema Sins sigh*

"You wouldn't cast someone able-bodied and put them in a wheelchair...” Again I say, directors and casting directors need to ALWAYS search for someone who is in a wheelchair, or deaf, or HOH, etc. before looking for an able-bodied actor to play a character with that disability (I’m iffy on the whole term “disability because of its negative connotations, but I’m using that word in order to keep this post as long as possible). But I give you the example of Rainman with Dustin Hoffman. Or A Beautiful Mind with Russell Crowe. Or the play and movie Proof, where the father had a mental illness?  Anthony Hopkins was diagnosed late in life with Asperger’s Syndrome, but the father in Proof was written to allude more to schizophrenia. And yet, Anthony Hopkins did a tremendous job in that role. Or Even Forrest Gump with Tom Hanks. Many people today love Tom Hanks and laud him as a “woke” celebrity. But if he were to portray the role of Forrest Gump today, how many people would try to “cancel” him or at least have very strong words for the director not casting an actor with autism, due to the character’s autistic tendencies? A whole lot of people on the internet and Twitter, I’ll bet. As someone who struggles with anxiety and panic disorder, would I be upset if someone without that mental illness got cast in a role of a character struggling with that? Sure I would. But if they did an authentic job and approached the role respectfully, it would be hard to stay irritated. Besides, there are always more roles created practically everyday. 

To continue on with Davies’ quote: “...you wouldn't black someone up.” Yikes. I’m sure he didn’t mean this in a cast-off kind of way, but that’s how it comes across. I can see now why he said he wasn’t “being woke about this,” because a more “woke” way of putting that would be...what, exactly? “You wouldn’t cast a non-black person in a black role.” That sounds better and less harsh. Or even “a white person in a minority role.” Which should be common sense, and I agree with both statements. 

And then “Authenticity is leading us to joyous places." Oh! Look at that! There’s that word that I’ve been using and emphasizing throughout this whole post! Authenticity is one major brick in the foundation of good, credible acting. 

“High-profile examples of straight performers playing LGBTQ+ characters include Rami Malek's Oscar-winning portrayal of Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody, and Taron Egerton's Golden Globe-winning turn as Sir Elton John in Rocketman.”

I haven’t seen Rocketman, but I saw Bohemian Rhapsody and it was great! Why am I high-lighting this movie? Because it’s the perfect example of a straight actor playing a gay character and playing it authentically, while also looking a lot like the real person they’re portraying. If a look-a-like had been cast who also happened to be gay, but couldn’t act to save their life or couldn’t bring as much as Rami brought to the role, wouldn’t that kind of put a damper on the film? And yet, Rami Maleck both looked the part and brought an authenticity to the role that many Queen fans loved and appreciated. Even the remaining Queen band members said that he did an incredible job and Freddy would be proud. I wonder if Freddy would care that Rami wasn’t gay? I doubt it, but no one can know for certain. 

Then there’s the whole term “gay face.” I personally don’t think this is the right term to use because it could possibly diminish the whole meaning and importance of “black face.” Even if Corden appeared to be mocking gay people (I never watched The Prom so I have no idea what his performance was like), calling it “gay face” takes away from and inadvertently belittles the whole dark history of “black face.” Black face’s whole history comes out of an even darker history of racist times filled with hatred and ignorance. I’m not saying that gay people haven’t had their own experiences with hate and intolerance, but isn’t kind of “un-woke” and “insensitive” to compare the hundreds of years of blatant, public racism against an entire race of people to the intolerance of homosexuals? (Again, I’m asking this genuinely because I want to learn and get other people’s opinions. I’m not trying to speak for any community, and I recognize that my personal opinion on this matter is just that: my opinion. And I could be better informed.)

Along the lines of the above paragraph, is it wrong to say or think that casting a non-minority actor in a minority role is a lot different from casting a straight actor in a gay role? Sexuality comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors; that is to say, every race has people with different sexualities. But I think it would be pretty cringe if a Caucasian actress was cast in a role meant for an Asian or African-American woman. 

Director Joe Mantello told Sky News the casting was not intentional, but rather a "very fortunate series of events".

He continued: "That being said, I think having an out gay cast really did inform the work and it took on a particular kind of tone because of that, which is not to say that's the only way to approach this material. But for this particular group, it did something that I think is very, very special. There's a chemistry that they have."

And this man summed up my entire argument! He also put into simpler terms what I have been trying to express about the beauty of theatre: there will always be special casts, especially when there’s a great chemistry from a shared experience. A "very fortunate series of events,” indeed. “The casting was not intentional...” leads me to believe that the director didn’t set out to have an all out-gay-cast, but rather, each actor brought great performances to their auditions and were considered by the director to be perfect for the roles. These actors also just happened to be gay.

If you’re still here after all of that, let me take a moment to sincerely thank you for reading the whole thing! I know it’s a lot, but I’m very passionate about acting and giving each and every actor a fair chance. Let me know what you think, and please be respectful!

[coffeeandtletters]

I published the hilson fic!!

Double or nothing.

House kisses Wilson's check as part of an 'act', it feels too natural to him, so, of course, he has to turn it all into a game, Wilson catches up pretty quickly. The ducklings try to not get scarred for life.

               “When did you sneak in?” House asked, going back to coma-guy room just to find Wilson there.

               “Being able to use the stairs is quite useful, you should try it. Where is your food?”

               “Why did you order the salad if you don’t like it? And what are you doing here?”

               “I’m watching my figure. And trying to hide from you.”

               “Oh, honey, but I like you like this, don’t worry.” He said, examining the salad plate, looking for something yummy to eat out of it, he found an olive and picked it up and ate it, it was boneless. “Don’t look at me like that, I washed my hands before coming here.”

               “Why don’t you, I don’t know, buy your own food and then come back?”

               “So you want me to come back?”

               “House, you’re being specially annoying today, why?”

               “I don’t have a case yet, and my ducklings are starting to swim alone, I’m a sad mother duck” House said, taking a second chair and moving it so he could sit next to Wilson.

               “I-” Wilson started, House found another olive and ate it too, now sitting next to Wilson and facing the T.V. “You know what? Never mind. Here, I’ll pay for your food, just go get it.”

               “You’re sending little crippled me to get the food all the way to the canteen and back?”

               “You want me to, not only pay for your food, but go get it and bring it back? You only have to take the elevator.”

               House was about to answer to that and make Wilson go get his food when Foreman entered the room, almost running, lab coat floating around him like a cape, anyone that couldn’t see Foreman was the sexier of his kids was just- anyway.

               “House! We need you.”

               “Always, I know. Why this time though? It’s launch break.”

               “A neurology case. And your launch break was two hours ago.”

               “Boring” he said immediately, knowing that that wasn’t all that was to the case Foreman was presenting, and he was about to explain exactly why.

               “She has almost all the symptoms to Bell’s palsy.”

               “’Almost all the symptoms’, how’s that entertaining? You see what I have to put up with, Wilson?” he added turning towards him, Wilson just arched his eyebrows, still trying to eat his salad, especially the olives.

               “Except” Foreman interrupted his boss, rolling his eyes “She doesn’t have Bell’s palsy. She also has ataxia and her liver is starting to fail. Doesn’t seem to have any brain damage nor allergies, doesn’t drink.”

               “Did you ask her all that?”

               “Yes.”

                “How many times do I have to tell you ‘Everyone lies’” he looked at Wilson and rolled his eyes, remarking his thinking. Wilson just looked at Foreman as if he was asking for forgiveness in House’s place. Foreman already knew the act, so he looked back at his boss. “Well, honey, I’m leaving, don’t wait up for me” he said, and stood up, took his cane and kissed Wilson’s check who remained silent, gapping.

               House smiled at that, he loved having the last word and that wasn’t something he always got away with, with Wilson.

               “Did you just kiss Wilson?” Foreman said, walking as fast as he could to the room their patient was on, knowing he was risking House realizing something and going back to the other room.

               “It was bound to happen” House answered.

               “Don’t get me wrong, last thing I want is for me to look like I care, but, why?” he said calling for the elevator that was there in less time that Foreman used to finish talking.

               “So cold, Foreman, that’s why I like Cameron better. Anyway, is it lupus or no?”

               Foreman rolled his eyes and walked into the elevator.

               House realized then, as the doors closed before his eyes, just being stooped by Foreman, that he had, in fact, kissed Wilson’s check. For a moment he felt paralyzed but Foreman urging him to get into the elevator took him back to reality. Wilson, surely, would have taken it as part of the joke, but it had felt… natural. Awfully natural.

                                             You can read it all in ao3!!

[ofzully]

❛ ✶ ( RACHEL HILSON , CISFEMALE , SHE/HER )  —  did you see ZAHRAH BELLO  walking around campus earlier ? i hear a lot of people talking about the TWENTY ONE year old SENIOR. from what i know , they are studying POLITICAL SOCIOLOGY and are a part of OMEGA ALPHA PI . they come across as + MAGNETIC but also - UNCONTROLLABLE , which makes sense because on their instagram ( @IHEARTZULLY ) it says they are a SCORPIO . when i see them , i think of BOX RED WINE SIPPED ON CRYSTAL GLASSES , LAUGHTER IN THE FACE OF DETERMINATION , HONEY-DEW GAZES AND GLOSS LIP STAINS  . the most interesting thing i’ve heard about them though , is the fact that REDACTED , but don’t tell anyone i told you that . ooc info . layla . 23 . est . she/her .

hi  everyone  ,  i’m  layla  &.  i  think  i’ve  rped  w/  a  couple  of  you  before  but  here  is  my  baby  zully  ! down  below  are  some  quick  tidbits  about  her  !  if  you’d  like  to  plot  w/  her  give  this  a  like  !  i  have  a  few  connections  in  mind  ,  but  if  that  doesn’t  strike  ya’  fancy  ,  we  can  brainstorm  !  

honey  dipped  in  vanilla  ,  she  is  one  of  the  warmest  girl  you’ve  ever  met  .  she  has  kind  eyes  , and  she’s  approachable  in  the  quarter  with  a  smile  and  ringlet  curls  reflecting  the  sun  like  gold  .  many  mistake  kindness  for  weakness  ,  until  you’ve  had  a  conversation  with  her  .  she’s  always  been  extremely  outspoken  about  what  she  believes  in  ,  drunk  ramblings  on  political  views  at  frat  parties  ,  and  long  rants  against  your  professor  --  and  why  his  opinion  is  appreciated  ,  but  nevertheless,  still  wrong --   in  a  shared  class  .  

she  doesn’t  purposely  go  out  of  her  way  to  hurt  people  ,  but  the  sting  of  a  intellectual  comeback  might  sit  on  a  silver  tongue  that’s  mumbled  under  her  breath  .  it’s  the  passion  that  gets  her  in  trouble  ,  and  the  way  it  comes  in  wild  cards  with  people---  subjects ---  and  her  own  morals  set  on  a  ridiculously  high  standard  for  herself  .  

you  pronounce  her  name  like  zara  ,  but  at  the  start  of  college  ,  she’d  gotten  the  nickname  zully  and  it  kind  of  just  stuck  .  it  was  easier  to  pronounce  ,  more  efficient  for  her  professors  to  remember  ,  and  it  became  a  staple  .  the  nickname  was  probably  given  the  start  of  freshman  year  ,  by  someone  on  campus  ---  likely  an  ex  boyfriend  /  girlfriend  ,  or  an  ex  best  friend  .  so  if  you’re  interested  ,  in  that  just  lmk  !

zahrah  is  actually  a  twin  ,  and  her  fraternal  sister’s  name  is  nimah  .  they  hav  always  been  extremely  close  ,  and  look  a  lot  alike  ,  despite  not  being  identical---  you  could  confuse  them  to  be  ,  if  you  didn’t  know  better  .  their  parents  moved  to  cambridge  from  nigeria  when  they  first  got  married  thirty  years  prior  ,  and  her  mother  is  a  doctor  on  a  medical  floor  at  the  hospital  .  their  father  passed  away  when  the  girls  were  sixteen  from  a  cardiac  issue  ,  and  was  a  retired  medical  professional  as  well  .  

when  their  father  passed  away  ,  he  put  money  away  for  the  girls  to  start  their  lives  and  go  to  college  .  however  ,  nimah  had  always  been  more  of  a  reckless  spirit  ,  despite  zahrah’s  freedom  .  nimah  moved  to  new  york  city  the  second  she  turned  eighteen  with  the  money  their  father  left   her  .  this  of  course  ,   causing  a  rift  between  the  twins  and  their  mother---  while  zahrah  went  straight  to  university  and  her  half  of  the  money  dried  up  into  tuition  fees  .  nonetheless  ,  zahrah  has  always  been  in  the  middle  of  a  the  feud  between  her  sister  ,  and  their  mother  .  

zahrah  is  often  misunderstood  ,  and  this  comes  with  the  complexity  of  who  she  is  .  it  wasn’t  a  mistake  that  the  men  around  campus  began  to  notice  her  the  moment  she’d  offered  a  kind  and  inviting  smile  .  though  ,  while  getting  to  know  her  ,  whether  it  be  because  she  was  uninterested  in  them  ,  or  a  personal  hit  to  their  ego---  they  started  using  phrases  to  put  her  in  a  box  .  high  maintenance  ,  uncontrollable  ,  she  wouldn’t  be  the  girl  they’d  take  home  to  their  father’s  in  the  hamptons  because  her  views  and  outspokenness  could  be  a  challenge---  despite  her  kindness  .  she  wasn’t  a  pretty  porecelain  doll  ,  and  she  certainly  wouldn’t  stand  by  your  side  as  a  trophy  wife  ---  to  smile  and  nod  .  

*            PHYSICAL  .  

when  i  say  this  girl  is  tiny  ,  i  mean  it  .  she’s  5ft  even  ----  barely  .  she’s  incredibly  small  built  ,  dainty  shoulders  and  dainty  wrists  .  very  rarely  does  she  wear  heels  ,  so  it’s  noticed---  it’s  probably  the  first  thing  you  notice  about  her  ,  other  than  her  smile  .  her  hair  falls  just  past  her  collar  bones  when  left  natural  , with  dark  ringlet  curls  . vivid  gazes  resemble  stained  glass  ,  the  color  of  honey  dipped  in  sunlight  ,  with  long  dark  lashes  to  match  .  she  has  a  single  tattoo  on  the  corner  of  her  left  wrist  that  reads  :  ignited  ---  in  fine  line  cursive  .  she  wrinkles  her  nose  when  she  laughs  ,  and  she  wrinkles  her  nose  when  she’s  mad  --  her  cheeks  tint  a  deep  red  ,  while  drifting  across  the  bridge  of  her  nose  and  to  the  tips  of  her  ears  .  she  never  stutters  ,  but  starts  talking  extremely  fast  when  she’s  agitated  or  excited  .  

*            HOBBIES  .  

zully  loves  to  read  ,  mostly  fiction  romances  ----  when  she’s  not  being  forced  to  study  .  it’s  a  guilty  pleasure  .  you  can  catch  her  in  between  classes  in  the  courtyard  ,  either  at  a  table  or  on  the  edge  of  a  fountain  .  

she  writers  along  with  it  ,  journal  entries  ,  and  they’re  personal  .  she  keeps  a  leather  notebook  by  her  bed  ,  and  for  the  most  part  just  writes  about  her  day  before  she  sleeps  .  

she  sews  a  lot  ,  mostly  because  growing  up  --  she  could  never  find  jeans  that  fit  right  .  they  were  always  too  long  ,  too  big  ,  so  she  had  to  learn  how  to  inseam  before  she  even  made  it  to  high  school  .  

braiding  hair  ,  where  she  got  good  at  it  mostly  because  of  her  sister--  who  often  liked  to  wear  her  hair  in  protective  styles  rather  than  their  natural  curls  .  it  helped  either  way  ,  giving  the  twins  the  ability  to  be  told  apart  . 

*      ��     CONNECTIONS  . 

ex  best  friend  :  likely  they  pushed  for  zully  to  join  a  sorority  ,  but  they  ended  up  in  different  ones  ,  and  drifted  because  of  it  .  they  don’t  really  get  along  anymore  ,  and  the  differences  in  sororities  probably  has  caused  the  rift  .  they  both  miss  each  other  ,  but  will  never  admit  it   .  (  maybe  the  person  who  gave  her  the  nickname  )  

ex  something  :  whether  it  be  they  were  dating  ,   or  on  the  verge  of  dating  ,  your  muse  screwed  it  up  .  they  got  into  a  fight  and  both  ended  up  drinking  ,  except  yours  woke  up  in  someone  else’s  bed  .  either  way  ,  she  hasn’t  spoken  to  your  muse  since  .  (  maybe  the  person  who  gave  her  the  nickname  )  

best  friend  that  never  got  the  chance  :  male  or  female  ,  they  ran  into  each  other  freshman  year  .  literally  .  they  both  ended  up  in  the  nurse’s  room  with  a  concussion  ,  and  they’ve  been  inseparable  ever  since  .  there  could  have  been  the  chance  where  they  were  almost  something  more  ,  but  it  fizzles  .  there  could  also  still  be  unresolved  feelings  on  one  end  ,  but  unspoken  .  

is  this  chemistry  ,  or  are  we  enemies  ?  :  basically  ,  this  muse  shares  one  or  two  classes  with  zully  and  that’s  how  they  met  .  it  started  with  them  loving  to  get  under  her  skin  ,  riling  her  up  to  see  a  reaction  ----  but  then  they  started  to  enjoy  it  a  little  too  much  .  zully  thinks  your  muse  is  the  thorn  in  her  side  ,  but  your  muse  is  starting  to  get  a  little  too  comfortable  wanting  her  to  notice  .  they  might  have  even  unthinkingly  hooked  up  at  some  point  .    this  plot  is  also  based  heavily  off  this  plot  HERE  .  

[bluedaviau]

「 cherry. rachel hilson. cis female. she/her. 」 are you ready for the time of your life, BLUE DAVIAU? the TWENTY ONE year old FINE ART graduate from tulane is ready to HOT AIR BALLOON  in DUBAI this semester. close friends would describe them as IDEALISTIC and CREATIVE, but there’s really only one way to find out. get ready for what august has in store for you, BLUE ! 「 pepper. twenty one. est. she/her. 」

ABOUT THE MUN.  the 2000 claymation film chicken run radicalized me

what up, i’m pepper, i’m twenty four, and not to flex but i’ve had writer’s block for two str8 months !! but i’m hoping to change that right here right now with one ms. blue daviau so thank you for coming on this journey with me friends it’s gonna be wild. a bit about me is i’ve gone to the mall literally every day this week and honestly, i am Exhausted from it so i apologize for the mess this intro is about to be. i’m a taurus with a libra moon and libra rising so do with that information what you will. my favourite pokemon is mewtwo. growing up i had a massive crush on danny phanton and ben 10, like i loved those lanky boys that could transform to fight crime for some reason?? i can’t tell you why. also when i was a child i thought god looked like king triton from the little mermaid. alright that is enough about me, moving on to blue. 

BIO.  if you use my coloured pencils you better put them back in rainbow order

this is going to be the short version of her bio but if you want to see the long rambly messy version you can find my google doc/app here ! which i recommend you looking at for no other reason than to see how cute the little cherry doodle i inserted in there is. it took me so long to get that in there and looking cute. it’s baby’s first fancy google doc 😌 anyways sdjhdsjh 

blue was born and raised in hawaii! her mother, stormi, was miss hawaii state at one point and her father, reggie, was a pro surfer! however before blue was born her father had a surfing accident that left him in a wheelchair. he turned to art to try to cope with the trauma of this accident and the reality of never being able to surf again, and he even opened up his own gallery! his gallery became a tourist attraction in hawaii and pretty well known in the art community and after passing down her crown blue’s mother became a news anchor. so the fact was blue was the daughter of two local legends in hawaii and the expectations were high!

not to mention the fact that all of blue’s elder siblings were amazing too. blue has five older siblings and all of them are successful in their own right and in their own niche. they’re also all named after colours funnily enough. the daviau parents had big hippy energy in case you were wondering. 

so growing up blue was always just kind of the ‘other’ sibling. all her older siblings had showed their talents at a young age and grew into them pretty quickly, while blue was just kind of... there. she was an artist, but she wasn’t a groundbreaking artist. she could sing, but her voice was simply pretty, not lifechanging. she could surf, but she was average at best. to put it simply, blue was the daviau sibling who wasn’t at all special. which ironically, made her stand out like a sore thumb. 

blue didn’t mind too much though, at least not when she was younger. she kept to herself anyways. all blue wanted do when she was younger was read, draw, and explore hawaii’s wild life, so she had everything she could possibly need to be happy right at her fingertips. life was good for her despite her inadequacy, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t aware of it (and wouldn’t develop a complex about it later).

when blue was six though her parents decided that they needed to have sweet, sweet, baby number seven to save their marriage. they named that sweet boy gray. he did not save a damn thing, but he sure was cute. blue was eleven when her parents finally divorced and that pretty much marked the end of blue having any kind of parental guidance. 

long story short, both of blue’s parents went kinda buckwild the moment they were single and most of the responsibility to take care of five year old gray fell on blue. blue was the one to make gray’s meals. blue was the one to give gray a bath. blue was the one to tuck gray in at night and get him into his school clothes in the morning. blue was the one to help him with his homework and hold his hand as he crossed the street and honestly pretty much do everything for him until she was about seventeen. both her parents simply checked out on that front, and it the end blue was more of a mother to gray than either of their parents were. 

the pressure of having to not only take care of herself but also gray when she wasn’t even legally an adult yet, was honestly way too much for blue. her anxiety skyrocketed, and the pressure she put on herself only grew. the only way blue could really cope with it and calm herself down was by 1. losing herself in nature, 2. drawing, or 3. reading, or rather most likely, doing all of the above at once. using art of an escape pretty much guaranteed that blue’s love and passion for it grew, and with that her talent for it. by that time blue was seventeen she had a full portfolio ready to send off to any university outside of hawaii that would take her. because you bet your bottom dollar your girl was getting the hell outta there!

as we all know blue got accepted to tulane. it was hard to leave gray and her family behind, but blue set her mother and father straight before she left, ensuring that gray would be well taken care of in her stead and hoping that some distance between herself and her family that was so dependent on her (her mother never new how to cook so blue made all the meals, her father never knew how to handle gray so he was always coming to blue to advice, gray was absolutely lost without her, etc) would lift that pressure off her shoulders. 

it didn’t at first. the first few months were tough with all the calls blue got from home. that plus the schoolwork she had on her plate almost left her more stressed than before. however, slowly the calls began to fade and slowly blue was able to put her full focus in her art program, and later, her animation programs. 

sorry folks my brain is fried, we’re gonna stop here!

HEADCANNONS. on all levels except physical i am sitting on top of the moon with my legs swinging back and forth

Blue’s father is in a wheelchair from the surfing accident that made him take up art. His past as a professional surfer is actually part of the reason why his gallery is so popular though honestly, because the accident was televised and after that tragedy many of his fans and the public wanted to support him. He just also so happened to be really talented. But yeah, Blue’s father was really talented at surfing, he was even invited to the summer olympics in the nineties! But he was also the type to refuse to go because ‘surfing should be freeing, the olympics have so many restrictions, it takes away from what surfing is!!’ dkjsd he was that type yk? I also imagine Blue’s parents were the type to be on the front lines at protests. As it is, Blue is the same, very passionate, definitely has made some bomb ass posters and t-shirts for every women's march she’s attended.

Blue can play the ukulele really well and she honestly has a really pretty singing voice. However she can’t dance even a little bit. Honestly, she could literally break a bone. Really wants to throw it back though 😔

Loves to bake and cook because they’re relaxing activities with built in rewards. Learned to bake and cook because of having to take care of herself and her brother's meals when she was younger, that is if she didn’t want them both to literally get diabetes. As it is though, now that she doesn’t have to worry about her baby brother’s diet as well as her own, she will make a whole chocolate cake just cause she’s a little stressed and proceed to actually eat it. But she will share though. Catch Blue coming to your hotel room with sweets.

All of Blue’s elder siblings are adults now, but Gray is still about sixteen. They exchanged letters from Hawaii to Tulane and Blue always spends hours decorating hers and including little snacks and cute little knick knacks in them, despite the fact that Gray is now an angsty teenager and does not find these things as entertaining as he used to. Despite that, they are definitely the closest out of their siblings for the most part.

Blue’s siblings' names are Sage, Jett, Jade, Ruby, Rose and of course Gray. Jade and Jett, and Ruby and Rose are both twins.

The type to cry easily honestly. Also the type to carry other people’s problems with her. Like if you tell Blue that someone hurt your feelings last week she will remember and she will check on you the next time she sees you. Very empathetic, almost to a fault though because she’s constantly being careful of everyone else’s feelings rather than her own. The type who’s a good listener though. Also the type to give either really good advice or really odd advice.  

Art still tends to be her happy place, something she got from her father. Trying to find her own place outside of her father's shadow. She wants to get into the world of animation and cartoons but the whole task is a bit daunting. Is planning to work her ass off for it though! Spends a lot of time in coffee shops storyboarding and making animations. I think she may have a contract going on with a cartoon network of some sort, like they may have picked up a show of hers? Because I imagine her putting out some of her first shorts on Youtube and that might have gotten a bit of attention and led to her getting a deal for a show, so. She’s probably working her ass off towards that, and is honestly probably 1.doubting if they really picked up her show because of her talent or her father’s name, and 2.wondering if she can really do this.

Loves water in all shapes and forms. Since she can’t go to the beach everyday, the small bath in her tiny ass apartment??? Suddenly heaven. That said, Blue is either terrified of the ocean or loves it and I can’t decide which. Standby on that.

Makes a great coffee cake. Like it’s to die for.

Is VERY passionate about the environment. Is a pescatarian. Goes to the farmers market to pick out fresh produce. Loves to hike.

Always has the urge to sketch or paint after she reads poetry or novels. Highlights her favourite bits and has the tendency to read them over when she’s sad. The parts she loves are usually the parts that leave her wanting something.

Draws when she’s sad too. Claire Saffitz energy when she’s cooking but also just through life. Very friendly, but an introvert when it comes to gathering her energy.

Lives for libraries and bookstores, and has stacks on stacks of books in her old apartment. Loves old children's books honestly, like The Secret Garden, and poetry. Like whimsical and fantastical fiction with flowery words that just brings you to another place? Blue’s freaking jam. Falls in love with someone in fiction every five days, and desperately wants to be in love in real life, hence all the tinder dates and blind dates. I don’t think Blue ever has fallen in love though, like not really.

An absolute baby when it comes to the cold. Literally there could be a slight breeze and Blue will be acting like she’s suddenly in the arctic.  Any cold destinations will be greeted by a bundled up Blue’s Clues.

Made her first painting out of her own feces at six months old. Her parents proudly framed it. It’s probably still up in the attic in their Hawaii home.

Won her first art show at six but was unsure whether it was because her art really was something worth awarding or because of her father’s name. The award got her on the front page of the Honolulu Tribune but with her father proudly at her back and the title ‘Following in her father’s footsteps’ above her head. Blue just wants to find her own footing in the art world, and be her own person.

Keeps a journal and has since she was a teenager.

WANTED CONNECTIONS. i’m the friend that needs help opening water bottles. 

coming to theatres near you soon!

[checkoutafrica]

Stonebwoy; A major player in Ghanaian Music

Every single month without fail African artists are constantly reminding us that they are in fact the kings and queens in this music game. So far in terms of music, this has really been our year and I could not be more excited! One album we cannot stop talking about here at COA is Stonebwoys ‘Anloga Junction’. This is his fourth studio album and a body of work that the Ghanian musician has been working on for the last 5 years. He describes it as a beautiful African scene with a touch of western experience and influence – Anloga junction is the juncture between those two contrasting perspectives.

Specialising in dancehall, reggae, and afrobeats Livingstone Etse Satekla is not only a major player in Ghanaian music but in African music as a whole which is why he will forever be one of the continents most celebrated artists. Having rose to international stardom after being the first artist of his kind to win a BET Award in 2015 and has subsequently won many other international awards such as Afrima, Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award as well as received nominations from MTV EMA, Grammy Awards and more. This man is not to be slept on!

Who was Stonebwoy 10 years ago?

I mean, I was still doing music …. I mean I was and still am a son, I come from a Christian family, you know? I have been doing music since I was 16, you know what I mean? It never stopped, I just kept going harder and harder. YHHH 10 years ago, I should be out of school, out of uni or something!

You create Afropop, reggae and dancehall, which one out of the three is your favourite genre and why?

I mean all three because, for me, it’s all the same roots but different branches. So when it all comes to me, I comfortably create either of the genres, I find it difficult to actually choose a main one. I think I always do all together because when you pick up any Stonebwoy song, you still feel all three; some dancehall, some afrobeats, some reggae – every single time you pick up any stonebwoy song. But you may notice that it is mainly the dancehall and afrobeat that you can feel everytime you hear any of my songs.

View this post on Instagram

Nominate challenge?

#AnlogaJunctionAlbum #TommyXLewis #BwoyFiger

A post shared by 1GAD (@stonebwoyb) on May 4, 2020 at 1:26pm PDT

You’ve worked with the likes of Kranium, Sean Paul, Burna Boy and of course the beautiful Ms Keri Hilson. Who has been your favourite to collaborate with so far and why?

You know, when it comes to this type of question – the favourites question, it sort of limits me in a way because every collaboration of mine is a favourite, they are all unique in their own ways, you know what I mean? So I can hardly pick which one stands out amongst all of them. However, the one that is making a lot of noise right now, making a lot of impacts and that one that needs to be very much appreciated at this moment in time is the one with Keri Hilson – Nominate. It’s so crazy, it’s amazing! The combination of afrobeats and RnB with some dancehall in there is just crazy, it’s really nice to hear.

How did the collaboration with Keri Hilson come about and should we expect more collabs in the future?

Uhmm what happened is that whilst we were recording the album we really planned to have an American collaboration on it, but the collab with Keri Hilson, it so happened that it was not planned, because if it was planned then that would mean that, that would sound like I called her up and said I wanted her on the album. But none of that happened, a friend of mine met Keri on a flight and that’s how beautifully it happened – we got introduced. My friend didn’t even know it was Keri Hilson until something happened and they got the opportunity to talk and so by doing so, the conversation turned to music, we ended up exchanging contacts right there and then and we gained some nice relationships. Then when I went on tour in America, it so happened that she invited me to the studio and then we cooked nominate as a beautiful song and here we are today!

What was the idea behind calling this album Anloga Junction?

I mean it’s my roots, the intention behind the album is to give it that identity you know? It represents the fact that I have gained some influences and a lot of things having learnt from the African perspective when it comes to the music and it is at this junction that it meets with the influences from the west as well. That is why you get the name Anloga junction.

You said the theme of the album is a beautiful African scene with a touch of western experience and influence. Can you go into more detail on what you mean exactly?

Exactly! Yeah, I just think sonically it is a beautiful African song, the sound and the way the musical wave has taken a diverse turn when it comes to African music and the way it’s been received by the western world lately. All that has influence because I am one of the people, I am one of the musicians, one of the new schools who have added their voices to that type of style, especially coming from mixing the afrobeats with the reggae and dancehall to create the afro dancehall which is what I have been known for these last 10 years. When it comes to the continent of Africa, I think that I am well representing for that African sound and wave, that is a representation of that sound. Plus the Caribbean sound and which is at large the Western sound, which is what I mean by that!

View this post on Instagram

Still on the JUNCTION…which music video should we drop next?

A post shared by 1GAD (@stonebwoyb) on May 22, 2020 at 5:47am PDT

Why did you choose to record the intro track (Le Gbs Gbe) in your home language “ewe”, what was the initial idea behind this?

Yeah, the intro track is in my home language because that is what the album is representing cause when I say Anloga you know that anybody who is going to pick up the record they have to find that masterpiece, they have to find that significance or that representation of the whole of the Anloga vice in there, that is why you find I speak in my dialect for the first track on the album, so it can truly represent what I mean with the album.

You said that some of the songs in your album are actually 5 years old, which of these are and why did you wait to include them in Angola junction rather than epistles of mama?

The reason being for that one is that there had always been a plan and I had known this particular song is timeless enough and that the project that I wanted to bring out was not yet, it was not yet due for that song and so you know as we’ve gotten here and as we started Anloga junction project, this one here qualified. That particular song is called “Nkuto” feat Kojo Antwi, track number 5 – that’s the one, that song is like 5 years old and bow down is like 2 years old. I take time to fix these songs, it took me a total span of 5 years to fix this body of work for the people.

Which is your favourite song from the album and why?

Track one, nominate and everlasting. But the whole album literally! I love the whole album, not going to lie.

You’ve worked with SA artists (AKA, Nasty C and Cassper Nyovest) in the past, do you yourself listen to SA music? If so what’s your favourite thing about their music/ artists?

Yeahh I do, I do. I love their sound and their whole African culture. You know the whole of Africa is culture – when you see Africa, you see strong accents, you see strong melanin, you see black, you see strong people. And all of that is depicted in our music when we sing so per the various places we have and the diverse cultures we have is well well enjoyable when you are a creative and span your scoop into all these areas. I listen wide to all these forms of music, I love south African music; their house, their kwaito etc.

How does it feel to be inducted into the Grammy museum sound of Africa exhibit?

It feels great! That was an exhibition that happened 3 years ago around 2016/2017 that they had to select some African artists who have won in that category before and those who are making strong waves and that exhibition, it was only meant to last a week but went on to last a whole year and it had me in there and legendary Kojo Antwi in there. So it was a coincidence to have him on my album and then for the both of us to be inducted at that level and that is one of the great levels that afrobeats music has been able to reach by the help of Ava Hall and the whole team who put together the BET international category. So thanks to the whole team who made it work!

What would you say is your biggest achievement so far in your career?

So far I still have a lot of things to do, I still have a lot of miles to reach, you know I’m just taking it easy now and I can only say that at this level it might even be difficult to choose my biggest achievement but I know that I must be the number one when it comes to afro dancehall and reggae and I am grateful for that.

What do you believe is the future of African music/ afrobeat’s?

In the next 10/20 years, African music is still going to be on the rise. You should understand that it can only get better and better. I pray that, not only musically but on the African continent that everything can work together for good because our arts and our creative industries are dependent on the governors of Africa. So in the next 10 years, we pray that Africa becomes more independent, more resourceful and more developed in the right sense and that way our music is going to go far. Big up to every African artist who is putting in the work!

The post Stonebwoy; A major player in Ghanaian Music appeared first on CheckoutAfrica.

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[thedarklightwithinus]

Shadow of Darkness | Chapter One

A/N; Answers for the cause of the grey eyes :)

Summary; Revelations and unfamiliar territory. 

Words; 1.8k

Series Masterlist

September 12th, 2023.

Undisclosed Location - USA.

The air around her seemed thicker than usual as consciousness came back to her ever so slowly. Grey eyes fluttered open as she surveyed her surroundings, breathing slightly deeper than usual through her nose. Her head felt like her brain was pounding against her skull, her whole body feeling stiff as though she had been out in minus degree weather. She understood exactly why she felt the way she did and knew that it was only a matter of time before she was feeling herself once again. However, that didn't change the fact that the chamber of coldness she so often visited was never any less pleasant.  

She had long ago figured out exactly what use the chamber had for her. At first, she thought it was a means to keep her sedated until she was needed for whatever mission her superiors had created for her. However, it soon became clear to her that not only was she being kept sedated, but she was also being frozen in time.

From what she could tell in the glass her reflection bounced off, she seemed to stay the same age while the people around her grew out and frail. Their appearance's changed every time she was awoken and knew that a few of the men she had once saw were no longer among the living.

She was torn from her thoughts when a large man made his way towards her in a white lab coat that seemed to want to burst at the seams. He grinned at her, his discoloured teeth on show as she merely eyed him blankly. He was unfamiliar to her but that didn't bother her to much. She was used to be surrounded by people she didn't know. Mostly due to the fact that she didn't bother to get to know them. She had her orders and that was that.

"Nice of you to join us." He said, coming to a stop in front of the chamber she was strapped into, the door wide open. "You've been on your longest journey... Not that you know that of course." He told her, chuckling to himself as though his words were funny. "I have to say, it's such a pleasure to finally meet you. We've heard a lot about you here and we're so glad you're joining us."

He reached out and pulled the strap from around her waist, allowing her to move out from the chamber and come to a stop beside him. He eyed her slightly, frowning when he had to tilt his head down in order to take her in. He raised a brow, turning to look at the chamber that was clearly built to hold a shorter asset.

"I must admit, I thought you'd be taller." She didn't respond, her face blank as she looked at the badge on his coat. Dr. Hilson.

"You of all people should know that size does not matter, Phil." A familiar voice filled the air. "Example A-" The tall, grey haired man motioned towards Phil with his hands. "-You eat several puddings a day and as a result of this, you are now morbidly obese." Phil's face reddened as he pushed his glasses up his nose. "However, you are a damn good scientist. One of the only reasons you are still alive actually."

"Arthur I do-"

"It's Secretary Lewis to you, Phil." Arthur Lewis, Secretary of the United Kingdom's Government. "I have nothing more to say to you. Leave us alone for a moment, would you." He rhetorically asked, leaving no room for reply.

Phil stuttered for a moment. Trying to figure out a reply before he cleared his throat and nodded. He pulled his clipboard towards his chest before he turned on his heal and took off out the room, pulling the double doors closed behind him.

She watched as Arthur let out a breath, pulling his glasses from his face as he breathed on them, using his suit jacket to clean the lenses. He eyed her as he cleaned, a small smile on his face.

"You know, I remember the first time I met you." He began, tilting his head slightly at her. "You were much smaller, teeth to big for your mouth. You would talk and talk and then talk some more. I was young myself back then." She merely stared at him, her features blank. "You know, I almost envy you. You still have your youth while I am old... You know, you were always my favourite." At tat, her head tilted slightly, indicating that she had been listening to him. "Anyway, enough of that... I have to tell you my dear... This is the last we will be seeing of each other. You have done well over the years and I will miss you... For a moment."

"Что из меня?" What of me? She found herself muttering, not sure why she was so bothered by the fact that the man with whom she had reported to, for who knows how many years, was inevitably saying goodbye without actually saying the words.

"Ah, you still have work to do." Arthur told her with a smile, motioning around him. "Welcome to America. I can assure you that you've never been here. Call it a fresh start of sorts. Richard Jackson, you remember him?" She nodded slowly. She remembered meeting him a few years back in Germany. "He's been doing amazing work Stateside and he's the only person with whom I'm willing to leave you too."

She decided not to take notice to that fact that he had all but declared she was some type of trophy to be passed down to whomever the previous owner saw fit. If truth be told, she couldn't remember a time when she was bothered by anything anyone had said to her or about her. She had thrown herself time and time again into her work, trying and hoping to make those above her happy.

"I best be off now." Arthur said, looking as though he really couldn't wait to get off to wherever it was he was off to. "Oh and you're English my dear. Speak English when spoken to with the language. You've always been a smart girl, don't go letting me down now." With that said, he hummed slightly before turning and leaving the room.  

The room fell silent as she stood on the spot, her hands behind her back and shoulders straight. She waited. Waited for direction in a room that she was the only occupant in. Waiting was something that came second nature to her. To her a day is a long time, a week even more. She's had all the practice she could ever need and more. What with being frozen throughout the years, her concept of time was simply so different to that of someone normal.

Normal, she scoffed under her breath. Was there anyone alive who was normal? Before she could dwell on the fact to much, the doors were pushed open and a group of men with guns came in. She raised a brow at them, finding it slightly funny that a few men with guns thought that could stop her from killing them all in seconds with her bare hands.

A man followed behind them, his features hard as stone. It took her no longer than five seconds to realise that the man who had come to a stop feet from her was Richard Jackson. He looked the same as when she had met him years ago. The only different being the slight sagging of his skin and the many more wrinkles that littered his face.

"Well, well, well." Jackson muttered, nodding slightly as he took her in. "You're finally Stateside." He eyed her with a tilt of his head. "What is it they call you again? The blessing in disguise? Hydra's Wayward Daughter? Or is it a mixture of the pair? Yeah, that's right isn't it?" She made no move to agree or disagree as she continued to stare at him blankly. "Let us pray that it hasn't gone to your head... No worries if it has, we can fix that in no time. You see, there was another like you... Not to long back, couple of years give or take.”

She continued to stare at Jackson blankly. He grinned, liking what he was seeing in her. He mostly liked that her artificial eyes were blanker than any he’d seen before. She really didn’t feel anything. 

“He had a life before us. That was his downfall. He remembered.” Jackson tutted, shaking his head as though the thought disgusted him. “Such a shame. Hydra put everything into him and yet, he still broke free. No need to threat, we have no problem with you now do we? You’ve never met the chair because, to simply put it, there’s nothing for you to remember is there?” 

[drreporting]

Puppy Love Pt.9

Owen.

When I saw her on the ground, almost passed out and bleeding, I’d never felt so scared for someone’s wellbeing. I want to say I felt that way because we’re close friends.

“The universe is punishing me.”

“Let me see,” I say, slowly lifting the bag off her face. Ouch.

“How bad is it?” she cringes.

“You look fine,” I lie.

She grabs a basin and looks into it. “I’m going to need stitches, Owen. How is this fine?”

“It’s fine because you’re not going to die,” I say, “I was really worried back there.” She looks away from the basin and at me. Our matching blues lock and my heart begins to race. She’s searching my eyes for something, but I’m not sure what. I want to say my heart raced because we’re close friends.

“How’s your hand?” she asks, changing the subject.

“Oh, it’s fine,” I dismiss, covering my left hand. She ignores me and grabs my hand to examine it. I’d been trying to avoid telling Amelia about my PTSD for months now, but last week I slipped. I had an episode in my sleep and ended up carving a hole in the on call room wall, so now she knows all about it. When she found out, I expected her to pity me, like everyone else does. But, when she knelt before me in that dark bedroom, holding my bleeding hand in her small, delicate ones, I saw nothing but empathy. She promised me she wouldn’t tell anyone and from then, I felt a deeper connection with her. I want to say I felt that because we’re close friends.

She finishes her check-up and I tease her a little about Ryan before taking her outside to wait for him. I know she loves him, I think she’s just afraid to love him. I don’t know why she’s afraid but Ryan is lucky; she’s a catch. I love having her around me. I want to say I love having her around me because we’re close friends.

So imagine how pissed I get when I hear her ask him to move in with her. After three months in a relationship? I mean, yeah the guy basically lives there with his dog, but still. That’s less time for us to hang out.

I want to say I’m jealous because we’re close friends and that him moving in means we’ll probably hang out less, but these days it’s becoming harder and harder to believe that my feelings for her are strictly platonic.

---

I come outside my trailer with my dog and see Amelia rolling in the grass with Riley a few yards away.

“What are you doing?” I chuckle as I approach her. Sato tackles them, thinking it’s a game. She’s giggling uncontrollably as she wrestles my dog. It’s then I notice the small baggie of mushroom next to her. She wouldn’t…

“I can’t believe you’re doing mushrooms,” I laugh, sitting down next to her. She hands me the baggie and I eat the rest.

“For some reason, I keep losing my prescription pad,” she says, ignoring my statement and retiring her efforts with my dog to stare up at the sky. Sato settles for lying down next to Amelia, resting her head on her stomach while Riley stills wiggles around in the grass.

Within the half hour we’ve laid down, I’ve officially become high, because the sky looks purple now. Don’t get me wrong, I completely understand that drugs aren’t good and they mess people up and I have PTSD problems, not to mention we’re both professional surgeons, but it’s fun being high with her. As fun as it is being sober.

“Should I buy Ryan’s dog a red or a blue sleeping bed?” Amelia asks me.

I laugh. “Oh no, I’m not giving you any more advice about men.”

She sits up and looks at me, confused. “What? Why?”

“For you to invite the entire male population to come live with you?” I say, still bitter a whole week later about her asking Ryan to move in. Not that I’d be less bitter if she waited longer to ask him.

“You’re so dramatic,” she dismisses me, lying back down in the grass.

“Look, Keri Hilson is a nice guy,” I admit.

“Kerrigan,” she corrects me for the hundredth time.

“Whatever. I just don’t think he’s the type of guy you shack up with,” I say, “I mean he bought you mushrooms. How does that scream ‘I’m ready for a stable relationship’?”

“How are we any more stable?” she challenges me, “We’re two doctors, high in the grass of my brother’s backyard.” As she finishes the sentence, another thought comes to her. “You live in a trailer in his backyard. At least I have a real house.”

“An apartment isn’t a real house,” I say, “It’s not even yours. You rent it.”

“Whatever,” she says, “The point is, we are the last people who should be judging who’s stable or not.”

She’s not wrong… “Blue.”

“Blue?”

“The colour of the bed to buy for his dog,” I answer, “I like blue.”

“Thank you,” she sincerely says, “Now onto more pressing matters.”

“Like?”

“The dragon in the sky,” she says in a serious tone. I laugh out loud.

I don’t know if Amelia notices, but Ryan and I don’t get along. We only tolerate each other because of our common interest in her. So he moving in made it harder to tolerate him. It got even harder when he gave me a ‘good’ piece of advice and told me to stay out of Amelia’s life. That I’m only getting in their way, preventing her from being a grown up. This is coming from the guy who bought her a bag of magic mushrooms, mind you.

Of course, I did the exact opposite of what he requested. I hung out with her at work, I hung out with her at home, I slept over, and I spent the weekends sometimes, all with Sato. If I was really in a spiteful mood, I’d help her pick out clothes to wear and watch her change into them. I kept telling myself I was only doing this to piss him off, but I liked Amelia. I just didn’t want to acknowledge or admit it yet (I still don’t). It would be too clichéd to fall in love with my best friend.

The best par was that she didn’t even mind, almost like she wanted me there all the time. It got confusing, because she clearly showed more interest for Ryan sexually and emotionally, yet she also showed more interest for our friendship. It was like she was dating the both of us at the same time.

I officially backed off after one night in late October. It was movie night, Ryan was supposed to be out all night and I’d had a line-up of classic horror films to ensure that I’d have her attention for the whole night. We’d gotten through one and a half of the movies when he came strolling through the front door, early. Our gazes met and we both rolled our eyes at each other and sighed. He went to shower and, when he came back, he enthusiastically joined us on the couch to watch the rest of the movie. I should’ve known what he had in mind just from the way he smelled.

“You smell nice,” Amelia had told him, leaning into him as she inhaled his scent deeply. I rolled my eyes as I watched her fall for his typical sexy cologne, aftershave trap once again.

“So do you,” he chuckled, wrapping his arm around her. Their affection was annoying. Or maybe I was jealous.

I tried to keep my attention on the movie, but out of the corner of my eye I could see him drawing circles on her shoulder with his index finger. His hand then lowered to wrap around her waist, drawing circles there too before kneading her thigh eagerly. By then, my eyes were rolling out of my head. At some point, he whispered something in her ear that made her close her eyes, and the next thing I knew, movie night was over and I’d been politely kicked out of the house.

It was then I realised that, no matter how many movies I chose, or whatever amount of ice cream I brought for her, or whatever trust I offered, Ryan would always win. All I could offer her was friendship, and she already had that from him. I was lacking; I couldn’t offer her sex and he had that over me. Well, I could, but that would cause a lot of problems; if she even accepted it. It was unfair, because I’d met her first, so I should have first preference over her, shouldn’t I? Okay, that came out wrong.

So, I gave up on my silly endeavour to cloud personal space and started seeing this trauma surgeon from another hospital, just to get my mind off of Ryan and Amelia. Mostly Amelia, whom I am still not admitting to liking.