#artist: bennie k

[haveyoulistenedtothisalbum-poll]

Tracklist:

School Girl ~東京Ver.~ • Sunshine • Nai • Silence • Hole In Da Tribe • 最終決戦 • 理由 1 ~Interlude~ • Melody ~Night Fly~ • タイトルコール ~Interlude~ • Crazy Day • P-Dad • Superdome

Spotify ♪ YouTube

[kathlare]

balancing act

Lando Norris x Amelie Dayman

Summary: A glimpse into the whirlwind of Amelie and Lando's intertwined lives, balancing their thriving careers and personal moments amidst the chaos of London.

Wordcount: 2.1 k

Warnings: just fluff

full masterlist // request over here!

July 2nd, 2024 - London, United Kingdom

The early morning sun filtered through the thin curtains of Amelie’s cozy London apartment, casting golden streaks across the wooden floor. The faint hum of traffic from the streets below mingled with the occasional meow from Benny, who stretched lazily on the windowsill. His brother, Björn, darted around the living room in pursuit of a stray piece of crumpled paper, his antics filling the space with chaotic energy.

Amelie sat cross-legged on the floor, her laptop balanced precariously on her thighs as she typed furiously. A half-empty mug of coffee rested beside her, forgotten in her focused haze. Benny sauntered over and plopped himself onto her lap, purring loudly as he demanded attention.

—Benny, cabrón, not now,— she muttered with a laugh, gently scratching behind his ears.

The door to the bedroom creaked open, and Lando emerged, still rubbing sleep from his eyes. His curly hair was a mess, and he wore a McLaren hoodie that was clearly one size too big for him—her hoodie.

—Morning,— he mumbled, his voice thick with sleep. He shuffled toward the kitchen, glancing at the chaos Björn was causing. “Jesus, your cat is feral.”

—That’s not news, babe,— Amelie replied without looking up. —He’s been like this since the day I got him. Maybe he gets it from me.—

Lando snorted as he poured himself a cup of coffee, adding an ungodly amount of sugar. —Doubt it. Benny’s more your spirit animal.—

The early morning banter set the tone for their day. Lando leaned against the counter, sipping his coffee, his gaze softening as he watched Amelie wrestle with Benny’s insistence on being the center of her universe. The apartment was a mix of their lives—her eclectic taste evident in the mismatched throw pillows and vintage posters, and his influence peeking through in the occasional F1 memorabilia scattered around.

—You’ve got that radio thing at ten, right?— Lando asked, breaking the comfortable silence.

—Yeah, and the magazine shoot after. You?—

He groaned, running a hand through his curls. —Interview at Silverstone. Something about “British pride” or whatever. Then another one in the city later. Can’t wait to be asked for the fiftieth time what it feels like to drive a car.—

Amelie chuckled, closing her laptop. —Poor thing, living the dream sounds exhausting.— She placed Benny gently on the couch and stood, stretching. —Well, at least we’ve got lunch to look forward to.—

—You mean we’re actually sticking to the plan today? Miracles do happen.—

She rolled her eyes, swatting at him playfully as she headed to the bathroom. —Go shower. You smell like yesterday.—

By nine, the apartment was a flurry of activity. Amelie’s glam team had taken over the living room, their chatter mingling with the buzz of curling irons and the faint strains of her album playing in the background. She sat in front of a mirror, her makeup artist deftly applying a bold eyeliner as her hairstylist curled strands of her dark hair into soft waves.

Björn leaped onto the counter, knocking over a bottle of setting spray.

—Björn, hijo de tu madre!— Amelie exclaimed, reaching out to grab him before he could cause more chaos.

Lando, freshly showered and dressed in his signature black jeans and a Mclaren tee, watched the scene unfold from the doorway, amused. —Your cats are more dramatic than you are.—

—Takes one to know one, Norris.—

—Touché.—

He wandered over, leaning down to press a kiss to the top of her head. —You look nice.—

—They’re not done yet.—

—Still.—

Her stylist smirked. —He’s a keeper, Mila.—

Amelie met Lando’s gaze in the mirror, her lips quirking into a soft smile. —Yeah, he’s alright.—

By noon, their schedules had dragged them in opposite directions. Lando was seated in a glossy studio in Silverstone, fielding a barrage of questions about his hopes for the weekend, the car’s performance, and his thoughts on the iconic British Grand Prix.

—It’s home turf, so yeah, there’s always pressure. But honestly, I’m just trying to enjoy it and give the fans a good show.—

The interviewer leaned forward, grinning. —And is it true you’ve been spotted around London with a certain Oscar-winning actress?—

Lando’s cheeks flushed, a boyish grin creeping onto his face. —Uh, yeah. Amelie and I are dating. But you already knew that.—

—Lucky guy.—

—Tell me about it,— Lando replied, a spark of pride in his voice.

Meanwhile, Amelie was stationed in a chic Soho café for a photoshoot, balancing a steaming cappuccino in one hand and answering questions in between poses.

—Your album Short n Sweet drops next month. What inspired the title?—

She tilted her head thoughtfully. —It’s kind of an inside joke. I’m not exactly known for being concise, but this album is. It’s a snapshot of where I am right now, you know?—

The photographer motioned for her to shift, and she adjusted her position, her heels clicking against the tiled floor.

—And where’s that?—

She smiled, thinking of Lando. —Happy.—

At 1:30, the two of them met up at a quaint bistro tucked away in a quiet London alley. Lando had beaten her there and was scrolling through his phone when she arrived, her presence announced by the clink of the bell above the door.

—Hey,— he greeted, standing to pull her into a quick hug.

—Hey yourself. Survive the morning?—

—Barely. You?—

—Björn didn’t burn down the apartment, so I’m calling it a win.—

They settled into their seats, the hum of conversation around them providing a comforting backdrop. Amelie reached for the menu, her fingers brushing against Lando’s in the process.

—What?— she asked, catching his amused look.

—Nothing. Just happy you’re here.—

Her heart skipped a beat, but she played it cool, flipping open the menu. —You’re such a sap.—

They spent the next hour laughing over shared appetizers, swapping stories about their hectic mornings, and stealing bites off each other’s plates. Despite the whirlwind of their lives, these moments felt sacred—a reminder of why they worked so well together.

As the waiter cleared their plates and brought the check, Lando leaned back in his chair, his arms crossed lazily over his chest. His eyes glinted with a teasing mischief that Amelie had come to recognize all too well.

—So, did they ask you about me today?— he asked, a grin playing on his lips.

She rolled her eyes dramatically, reaching for her purse. —Of course they did. Apparently, being in a relationship is my entire personality now. Forget the album, forget the acting, it’s all about Lando’s girlfriend.—

—Sounds like great PR to me,— Lando quipped, leaning forward to grab the bill before she could.

—You’re not paying, cabrón,— Amelie shot back, tugging at his hand.

—Too late,— he teased, holding the receipt just out of her reach. —I already made up my mind.—

—Lando!— she groaned, but the playful frustration in her voice only made him grin wider.

—Relax, you can pay next time.—

—There won’t be a next time if you keep this up.—

He laughed, leaning in to kiss her cheek. —You love me too much to mean that.—

She rolled her eyes again but couldn’t hide the soft smile tugging at her lips. He’s infuriating, she thought, but he’s also kind of right.

The afternoon saw them go their separate ways once more. Amelie returned to her apartment for her final interview of the day—a candid sit-down with a popular podcast host. Her team had transformed the living room into a cozy set, fairy lights twinkling against a backdrop of bookshelves and her own album cover prominently displayed.

—Welcome to the show, Amelie!— the host began, their voice warm and inviting.

—Thanks for having me,— she replied, tucking a stray curl behind her ear.

The conversation flowed easily, touching on her creative process, her inspirations, and how she balanced her career with her personal life.

—You’ve been incredibly busy lately, movies, music, and now you’re performing at the Summertime Ball. How do you stay grounded?—

Amelie paused, her thoughts drifting to the curly-haired boy who’d teased her over lunch. —Honestly? It’s the people I surround myself with. My family, my friends, and, um, my boyfriend. They remind me of what really matters.—

—Lando Norris, right?—

She nodded, her cheeks tinged pink. —Yeah. He’s been great. Super supportive. Even when I’m all over the place, he’s just…there.—

Meanwhile, Lando was back at Silverstone, fielding another round of questions under the hot lights of a press conference.

—So, Lando, you’ve got the British Grand Prix this weekend and your girlfriend’s album dropping next month. Will you be celebrating both?—

He smirked, his blue eyes sparkling with mischief. —Of course. I’m her biggest fan, so if she wins a Grammy someday, I’ll be taking all the credit.—

The room erupted in laughter, but Lando’s grin softened as he added, —Honestly, though, I’m proud of her. She works so hard, and she’s amazing at what she does. I’m just lucky to be along for the ride.—

By the time evening rolled around, Amelie was packing for her trip to Paris. Her suitcase lay open on the bed, a mix of chic outfits and comfortable staples spilling out. Benny lounged on top of her folded clothes, his soft fur a stark contrast to Björn’s wild leaps across the room.

By the time evening rolled around, Amelie was packing for her trip to Paris. Her suitcase lay open on the bed, a mix of chic outfits and comfortable staples spilling out. Benny lounged on top of her folded clothes, his soft fur a stark contrast to Björn’s wild leaps across the room.

Lando appeared in the doorway, holding two steaming mugs of tea. —Need a hand?—

—If you can convince Benny to move, sure,— she said, gesturing at the cat.

He set the mugs on the nightstand and walked over, scooping up Benny with surprising ease. —Come on, mate. You’re in the way.—

Benny purred contentedly as Lando scratched behind his ears, and Amelie couldn’t help but smile.

—You’ve got a way with him. Björn, on the other hand…—

—Björn’s just misunderstood,— Lando joked, dodging as the mischievous cat pounced toward him.

They spent the next hour together, folding clothes, sharing stories about their day, and stealing kisses in between. The cozy atmosphere of the apartment felt like a refuge from the whirlwind of their schedules.

As Amelie zipped up her suitcase, she turned to Lando, her expression soft. —You know I’m going to miss you, right?—

He pulled her into a hug, his chin resting on the top of her head. —I’ll miss you too. But it’s only a week. Then I get to see you light up Wembley.—

She smiled against his chest, letting his warmth settle over her. —You’re coming, right?—

—Wouldn’t miss it for the world.—

They stayed like that for a while, the sounds of the city fading into the background. For all their chaos, these moments of stillness reminded them why they worked. They were each other’s calm in the storm—a love as steady as it was electric.

[justtwotired]

Whispers of the night - Lloyd Garmadon x F!reader

Part 1 - previous - next

Tag list: @cipheress-to-k-pop @whore-of-many-hot-men @bodieohbo @anyth1ngfor0urmoony @luvlloyd @viannasthings

Guys- can we like- talk about this fanart I added here of Lloyd?? Cause I love it so, so much! Smits such good art and the artists OC -Christal- is also so beautiful! The Artist is ‘Scarlets.Doodles’ btw. I also wanted to say that all the art I use in the beginning of the chapters is not mine, but I always find it on Pinterest and than I can’t find the original artist, if you do know, please tell me so I can give the artist credit for their work!<3

Anyway, it’s bonding time for Y/n and her little brother😍

Your POV:

The holidays where over and it was time to go back to school, fun…!

Not.

But I guess it means I could see my friends everyday so it isn’t THAT bad, I guess, we did have fun at school the first day back.

It was a Monday, which meant school ended early for me. Dad was busy at work and mom was out with my aunt, our nanny was not available on Mondays, so that meant I was on duty of getting my little brother from school and my sister from daycare.

Luckily for me, they where right next to each other. I went to get my brother first and I walked onto the school grounds, waiting around with parents for the bell to ring and for the kids to come running out.

After five minutes off waiting, the bell rang and kids started streaming out of the school. Trough the crowd, I didn’t manage to spot Ace.

After a while, I finnaly spotted his dirty blonde hair and smiled, yet it fell when I saw he was being pushed around by a few other boys seemingly a bit older than he was, making my blood boil.

“Hey!” I called out, walking towards them, they looked up and the four boys quickly scurried off. I contemplated going after them but decided on staying with my brother.

“Ace, are you alright?” I asked concerned, squatting down next to him and turning his head towards me when he avoided looking at me. “Hey, look at me,” I said softly, “are you alright?” I repeated.

He shook his head, tears in his eyes and barreled into me, hugging me tight making me hug him right back.

“Hey, hey,” I said, softly stroking his hair. “It’s alright, they where just being little pricks,” I said and he pulled away, looking at me with a pout. “Why where they mean?” I asked softly.

“They are always mean to me,” he sniffed, whipping away the tears that threatened to spill, “just because I sometimes play with girls and dolls too,” he said and my heart broke.

“They do this more often?” I asked, glancing at the direction the kids had ran and I noticed their mothers in conversation with each other while the boys fooled around, looking oh so innocent as if they hadn’t been bullying my little brother.

“Oh, kiddo, why didn’t you tell me? Or mom and dad?” I asked, wiping away the fresh tears running down his face.

He shrugged and hid his face in my shoulder, making me kiss the top of his head. “Come,” I said, picking him up, “I’ll talk to their parents,” I said and began walking over.

“You don’t have to!” He panicked and I frowned lightly at him, “it’s fine, really!” He insisted and I shook my head.

“Ace, they are bullying you, that is not okay,” I said softly, “let’s try to solve this on our own before involving the school,” I smiled and continued walking.

The mothers looked up when I arrived, looking at me with questioning glances.

“Can we help you?” One of them asked, looking rather annoyed. Great, this was going to be harder than I had initially thought.

“Those are your kids?” I asked, nodding towards the four boys. The mothers all nodded. “I’m Y/n, Ace’s sister,” I introduced, “I just noticed your kids pushing him around and calling him names,” I looked around the group of mothers.

“You- you did?” Another asked concerned, glancing over to her son with a worried glance. “Oh great god, I am so sorry, I’ll talk to Bennie about that,” she shook her head.

“Oh please, they are just having a bit of fun, boys will be boys,” the woman who had been the first to speak waved it off.

“Clarice, if they are bullying ace we cannot take it lightly,” another told her, laying a hand on her shoulder, “we as parents are responsible to teach our children to be kind and respectful to everyone,” she smiled softly at me, making me smile back.

“Are you sure they where bullying him?” The fourth mother spoke, “I mean, they could indeed just been having fun,” she shrugged, looking over at her child as he laughed with his friends, probably not able to imagine him bullying someone.

“Seeing that my brother was crying, I am pretty sure,” I said dryly and she frowned but nodded. “I hope we can all just figure this out without having to involve the school, but if it does not improve, I’m afraid I’ll have to get my parents to speak with a teacher,” I informed.

“Oh yes, of course,” Bennie’s mother nodded hastily, “we’ll talk with our children and please, if nothing improves, come to us and we will talk with the teacher together,” she smiled and kindly touched my shoulder.

“Thank you so much,” I gave her a appreciating smile, “if you’ll excuse me, I do need to get my sister from daycare,” I said and bid my goodbyes.

The first one huffed in annoyance as I left and I heard a, “can you believe that? Accusing our children of bullying!” Coming from her mouth, making me roll my eyes.

Well, teo of them took it amazing, one seemed a bit sceptical, and they other was a total bitch. But it went better than I had expected.

“See,” I looked at Ace with a smile, “that wasn’t that hard,” I kissed his hair and put him down, holding out my hand for him to take as we both headed to the daycare before taking the car back home.

That night, when my siblings laid in bed, I entered the living room where my parents where watching tv.

“Mom, dad,” I said and they looked up at me, my father pausing the movie.

“Yes, sweetie?” My mom asked, her smile dropping at my concerned face.

I had decided it was best to talk with them while Ace wasn’t there, I didn’t want to embarrass him or make him cry by thinking about what was happening.

“Did you know Ace was getting bullied?” I asked and their faces fell, and I swore I saw actual tears form in my mothers eyes.

“Our little boy is getting bullied?” My dad asked, eyes full of rage and my mom grabbed his wrist, muttering his name, trying to calm him down.

“I saw him being pushed around and being called names by four boys about two to three years older than him,” I explained, “when I asked he said it was because he hung out with girls and played with dolls,” I looked at the ground, chewing on the inside of my cheek, “he looked so upset,” I shook my head sadly, my voice cracking.

“We need to talk to the teachers,” my mom insisted, “this is not okay, god, we should have put him in a private school, a public school is just-”

“Mom!” I cut her off, “public school or no, children are just little shits sometimes,” I shook my head, “besides, I already spoke to their mothers, I think they’re going to handle it but I can’t be sure and I wanted you to know,” I explained and my mother threw her head back and sighed.

“Oh, sweetie,” she said and walked up to me, “you’re amazing, I am so proud of you,” she hugged me tightly and I chuckled hugging her back.

“I bet it was that Lucas, wasn’t it?” Dad asked, his eyes still full of rage and he looked at me as my mother let go off the hug.

“I don’t know, but I know one of them is named Bennie, or Ben or whatever,” I shrugged and my mothers brows rose.

“Really?” She asked surprised, “Bennie’s mom is such a nice woman,” she shook her head in disbelief.

“Oh, yeah she was really nice,” I quickly nodded, “she promised to talk to her son- there was this one woman who was being kind of a bitch though,” I said and my mom shot me a look.

“Language, Y/n,” she said and my dad stifled a chuckle, making me shoot him a light glare.

“Sorry,” I muttered, “anyway, her name is Clarice and I swear I want to punch her in the face,” I huffed and crossed my arms.

“Oh… her,” my mom scoffed, “yeah, she’s Lucas’ mother, she is a horrible woman with an equally horrible husband,” she shook her head. “I don’t think she will be talking to her son about this,” she said sadly.

“Then we’ll have to step to the school eventually,” I shrugged, “for now let’s just support Ace,” I glanced towards the stairs where I had just come down from after reading Ace a bedtime story.

“Im proud of you,” my mom said, and pulled me into another hug, making me chuckle and hug her back.

It was a week later, I waited for my parents and little brother to get back from the conversation they had with the school and the parents of the kids bullying Ace.

The bullying had in fact, not stopped and my father was ready to sue. Luckily my mother was reasonable and just arranged a meeting.

When they got back, Ace just went up to his room without a word and my parents walked in aswel, rather frustrated.

“It seemed the school has the same motto as Clarice,” my mother said a bit disappointed, “apparently boys will be boys and they will get over it soon enough,” she said making me scowl and roll my eyes.

“Hey, you know where that Clarice lives?” I asked, “I might pay her a visit and try get some sense into her head, maybe the teachers aswel,” I said darkly and my father met my gaze.

“Good idea” he started but my mother cut him off.

“Absolutely not!” She said and hit the back off his head. “You should not be supporting this behaviour, Elijah!” She scolded my father, “we will handle this like adults, besides, tomorrow they have that costume party in the evening, maybe we’ll get something out of that,” she said with a small smile.

My father and I shared glances, both knowing it was probably not going to happen, but we didn’t say anything.

The next evening, I held my brothers hand as he, James and I, walked into the decorated school grounds. Kids in costumes ran around, some off the parents where even dressed up, aswel as the teachers.

I spotted some kids around our age too, also in custom. I guessed they where older siblings like me.

James, Ace and I where dressed as pirates. James and I wore our costumes from two halloweens ago, we had spent ages on making them.

Ace wore a costume that I bought at a toy store, I had pimped it with accessories and sewed the costume here and there to make it more realistic. I got him a plastic sword, an eyepatch and painted a beard on his face.

He was extremely proud and quickly went to show off to his friends. I did notice there where four girls, but there where two boys aswel that seemed to be friends with him, so I wondered why it was Ace that was targeted by bullies.

I almost tripped when four kids in ninja costume came running past me. One of them wore green, the others red, black and white. I chuckled at the sight before the masks went off and my smile fell.

“What?” James asked when he noticed, giving me a frowning look.

“Those are the four kids that bully Ace,” I whispered, “little shits,” I murmured right after.

“Oh, that’s them aye?” He asked, making way to go talk to them- or well probably their mothers as they stood next to them, showing off, making me grab his arm.

“Jamie,” I said, “don’t, we don’t wat to make it worse,” I frowned and looked at Ace, who was beaming at me, making me smile back. “Ace is happy, let’s leave it like that,”

James nodded and together we headed over to Ace who introduced us to his friends who where all dressed up differently, looking cute as ever.

After abput two hours, both me and James sat on a bench, drinks in hand as we where quietly judging costumes, giggling amongst ourselves.

“There’s so many ninja outfits,” he commented, making me nod. There where indeed, even one teacher was dressed up, fully in blue.

One girl was proudly dressed as the water ninja, boasting to the four little rascals about how she was the best ninja.

They countered that by saying that the green ninja was the best and the most powerful, which just made her stick out her tongue.

I averted my gaze to three girls, who I guessed where in grade seven or so, playing with skipping ropes, doing tricks that almost made me jealous, because I could never do that when I was their age.

James made a comment about that and I shoved him, causing him to almost fall off the bench while laughing.

With a chuckle, my eyes searched for Ace and my stomach sank when I watched how he was harshly pushed and he fell to the ground, making me seath with rage.

“Hey!” I stood up and quickly made my way over, “what do you think you’re doing?!” I called and a few people looked up to see what was happening. From the corner of my eye, I saw two people also quickly making their way over.

“Bennie!” His mother called out, and the boy looked up, eyes wide, looking like a deer in headlights.

I quickly kneeled down next to Ace. “Are you hurt?” I asked worried, fussing over him, James also coming to stand next to me.

“Are you four crazy?” He interrogated the children, “he could’ve been seriously hurt!” He pointed at Ace who had thick tears streaming down his face as I kissed his forehead and hugged him tightly.

“Oh, I am so, so sorry,” Bennies mother said to me, before turning to her son and starting to scold him. “Oh, and you three to!” She turned to the other three boys, who wore the same expression as their friend.

“Gavin,” another mother kneeled down to the level of her child, “what did we talk about, we do not hurt other kids, neither with words or our hands,” she said in a serious tone.

“I wanna go home,” Ace cried and I sighed, picking him up and letting him sit on my hip.

“Lets go, it’s late anyway,” I shook my head, starting to walk off.

“Hey, hold up!” I turned around at a hand in my shoulder, facing Bennies mother. “Bennie, say sorry to Ace,” she looked at her soon with an expecting look.

“Sorry, Ace,” he said softly, and I was quite surprised to see ehe genuinely meant it.

“You too,” the other mother looked at the remaining three kids who also muttered their sorry’s. She then turned to me with a soft look. “I promise this will not happen again,” she said and that’s when the third mother arrived aswel.

“Hey, what happened?” She asked worried glancing at Ace who was still whipping away tears.

Bennie’s mother quickly explained and the woman frowned and turned to her child.

“Felix, have you apologised to Ace?” She asked and he nodded, she looked at me for confirmation and I nodded aswel. “I am so sorry, dear,” she shook her head.

I muttered something before walking of, mostly focused on getting Ace out of here. James followed after me, a hard look on his face.

James hates bullies. He himself was bullied when he was little too and he did everything to protect those who were targeted.

One time, he sucker punched some guy who was bothering a first year, stealing their backpack and everything, it was pretty amusing.

Back at home, James said goodbye to me and Ace and I headed inside, holding Ace’s hand.

My mom was in the kitchen and he quickly hugged her when he spotted her, making her look at me in question, probably wondering why we where back so early and why Ace seemed like he had cried.

I explained the story and she was lost for words for a moment before hugging her son tightly, whispering reassuring things to him before taking him upstairs to get ready for bed.

I also went upstairs, texting with James who just got home and wondered how Ace was doing.

I yelped when my window -which I had slightly opened just in case- opened, greenie stepping inside with a wide grin as he pulled off his mask.

“Hi, princess,” he greeted and I chuckled, sending James a quick goodnight text before getting off the bed.

“Hi, stinky,” I said, scrunching my nose as I smelled the sweat from only a few feet away. He pouted at me and I chuckled.

“You bully,” he said, whiling away fake tears making me jab his side. He laughed, catching my hand before I could do it again.

He pulled me forwards into a kiss and I chuckled, before my face fell slightly when he pulled away, making him frown.

“What’s wrong?” He asked concerned, cupping my face in his hands.

“Lloyd,” I said softly and he hummed in acknowledgment, “can you do something for me?”

Lloyd POV:

I stood in front of Y/n’s house, gi and mask on, a small helmet in my hands.

The front door opened and Ace came running out, followed by a chuckling Y/n who was holding his hand, being dragged towards me.

“Ready to go, little man?” I asked and he beamed at me, almost jumping up and down.

“Yes!” He said in excitement and I chuckled, kneeling down to help him put on the helmet.

“Does that fit?” I asked and he nodded, looking up at Y/n to show off, making her chuckle.

“Good luck, you two,” she smiled and I stood up again, ruffling her hair affectionately making her mumble a soft curse before quickly glancing at Ace who luckily didn’t hear it.

“I’ll see you later,” I said, making her smile and nod. “Now, let’s get you onto the bike,” I said before lifting him up and putting him on the bike before also getting on myself.

“Drive safely!” Y/n called before I drove off, Ace shrieking and laughing in excitement the whole ride.

When we got to his school, I helped him off the bike, before kneeling down and also getting the helmet off. It revealed an excited grin and I chuckled, holding out my hand for him to take.

There were already a few parents and kids in the parking lot who watched with wide eyes.

The two of us walked onto the schoolyard and many heads turned in wonder and surprise, making me grin from under the mask while Ace buzzed in excitement.

“Acey!” A girl came running up followed by a few others, she hugged him tightly, making him let go of my hand to hug her back.

only when she let go did she seem to notice me, making her eyes grow wide. “The green ninja!” She gasped and the other friends yaws dropped aswel as they watched me in awe, making me chuckle.

“Hi there,” I greeted with a small wave. I scanned the grounds quickly and then spotted a small group of four boys, watching in awe. I recognised them from the pictures in the yearbook Y/n had showed me, so I diverted my gaze and looked back at Ace.

“How do you know him?” A boy asked, looking at me, then at Ace, then me again in awe, and then back at Ace.

“He is my sisters friend,” Ace said, a bit shy now as he answered the questions his friends had for him.

“Excuse me?” I looked up at a woman who was holding a phone and a man beside her. “Can I take a picture of the lot of you?” She asked with a warm smile, one of the Ace’s friends went to hug her legs and I guessed this was her mom.

“Of course,” I said and the kids bustled around, all posing as the woman took a few pictures. My hand rested on Ace’s shoulder the whole time.

I never really did pictures and autographs, but just for this one time should be fine.

“Hey, Mr. Green ninja?” I looked up to see a man approaching, he stuck out his hand and I shook it in silence. “I am William Wright, the principal. May I ask you what gives us the honour for you to visit our school?” He asked and I shrugged.

“Oh, I just came to drop off Ace here, his sister was supposed to, but she had an emergency. We’re great friends so she asked me to do it, seeing it is in my patrol area anyway,” I said and the principle nodded.

“Say, can I take a picture for the schools instagram?” He asked, I contemplated for a bit, before just deciding to agree.

Both me and the kids all posed again as the pictures were taken. At one point, I swooped Ace of his feet and got him to sit on my neck, making him laugh and the other kids giggle.

After the pictures were taken, the kids hurried off to play elsewhere and I turned to the principal.

“Say, I’ve been talking to Ace’s sister, and I heard he has been having some problems with bullies, is that correct?” I asked and the principal looked nervous.

“Oh, well, we had a meeting about it a few days back, but, we worked out that it was just a bit of fun, nothing big,” he waved it off and my eyes narrowed.

“Hm, interesting, seeing as he came home yesterday with bruised elbows,” I said and the principals eyes widened.

“Oh that is concerning,” he nodded hastily, “we will look into it, I promise,”

“I am happy to hear that,” I said, glancing at the four boys who were still watching in awe, but didn’t dare walk up to me. “I do really hate bullying, it just disgusts me, you know?” I said, I knew they could hear me.

“Yes, yes of course,” the man nodded and chuckled, “we do really not tolerate bullies here, thank you for informing me of the situation,” he said and then quickly excused himself.

He better do something about it, otherwise I might barge into his office some time later.

I waved at Ace in the distance before leaving with a content smirk on my face.

(Are you liking the fluff? Just asking… for no reason at all)

[sjsmith56]

Assignment Bucky Barnes, Chapter 5 - Going Steady

Summary: Ariel confides in Merton after Bucky spends the night. The couple, along with Steve, attend a free Benny Goodman concert in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park.

Length: 5.2 K

Characters: Ariel, Bucky, Merton, Mrs. Houseman, Steve.

Warnings: Frank talk about sexuality, mean girls, Ariel dealing with her own rapidly developing feelings for Bucky.

Author notes: While writing this chapter I listened to Benny Goodman songs online.  What fun it was to imagine a young Bucky Barnes jitterbugging to the music, especially the song Sing, Sing, Sing.  From what I read, the dancing at Benny Goodman concerts was as frenetic as that at modern concerts.   He did appear at a free concert at Prospect Park, although I couldn’t find out if it was pre-war or post-war.  Goodman and his orchestra were the first jazz artists to play in Carnegie Hall.  The concert was sold out with a top ticket price of $2.75 (equivalent to $53 in today's currency).  It was recorded but not released as a record until 1950, and is still considered one of the best live recordings of a jazz big band orchestra. 

<<Chapter 4

Bucky stayed the night with Ariel, curled together in her bed.  In the morning, when the sun rose he awakened first and watched her sleep, then gently kissed and woke her so that she could get up for work at the library.  While she watched from the bed he got up, got dressed and kissed her goodbye before climbing out the window, looking back at her from the windowsill. 

"I'll walk you home from the Library," he promised before he left.

After he was gone she put her robe on and took clean underwear with her to the bathroom which she changed into after her shower.  Merton was up and looked appraisingly at her as she came out from her morning ablutions.

"Well?" he asked.

"It was good," she said.  "He's a giving man and he made me feel like I was the centre of his universe.  When he asked if we could skip the movie and go watch the ocean I knew we would end up together.  He didn't want our first time to be in the back seat of the car so that's when we came here."

"How about the rest?"

"He's a gentleman," she stated.  "It was probably one of the best dates I've ever been on.  He didn't leave until after the sun rose and he woke me up first.  He's meeting me to walk me home from the library."

"Did you learn anything?" was Merton's final question.

"He's afraid," she said, in a quiet voice.  "For all of his bravado I think he's fearful of ending up alone and unloved.  It made him vulnerable.  Considering all of his sexual experience I don't think he's ever been emotionally intimate with a woman, until last night.  I'm going to write it down in the diary before I go to work."

While she dressed he made them both breakfast, oatmeal with brown sugar and fruit.  As she ate, Ariel wrote in the diary.  Some researchers would physically record sexual acts as they happened but Ariel always thought that was not respecting the intimacy of the moment with the partner.  Merton watched her as she wrote, trying not to read her writing.  He could hear them from his room while they made love and while he appreciated they tried to keep it quiet he felt at some point, he as "uncle" would have to discover them in the act and then behave accordingly after.  He decided to bring it up.

"May I ask you a question?" he asked and Ariel stopped writing.  "At some moment I am going to have to catch you two in your bed.  It's been my experience, from when I've heard of acquaintances discovering their daughter or niece in a similar situation that a proposal of marriage is needed to make the act acceptable.  Have you anticipated that?"

"Yes and no," she said.  "I don't think I can accept a proposal for marriage as that would be dishonest of me, since I know of his fate.  I don't know if I can adequately pretend that we would have a future together.  I could consent to a formal declaration of a relationship.  In fact, we had a moment where he asked if he was now my beau and I said yes.  Would that be sufficient to a "father figure" of this time to justify the physical relationship?"

"To an enlightened one, perhaps," replied Merton.  "To a traditional one, no.  Not under any circumstances.  Considering they have already determined that I am gay there is good reason for him to perceive that I am likely to be more enlightened.  I could perhaps justify giving you the privacy of your bedroom for your encounters by being sympathetic to you exploring your physical relationship.  Will Bucky believe and accept that?"

"I think he would," answered Ariel.  "I can leave the time of your discovery of us together to you.  It would certainly add to the authenticity of my reaction.  It may also provide an opportunity to determine how deep Bucky's feelings for me go."

"Was he prepared for the encounter?" asked Merton.  "Did he have contraceptives?"

"Condom," replied Ariel.  "He said he brought them just in case but didn't expect I would go along with it.  I understand many men of this time pull out early, which isn't the most effective method, so I appreciated his thoughtfulness."

Ariel returned to her writing and finished the diary entry before leaving for the library.  Being Saturday it was very busy in the branch, and she found herself on the circulation desk for most of the day.  One of the highlights of her day occurred twenty minutes before closing when Bucky came inside to borrow some books, taking out a couple of C.S. Lewis books and the Raymond Chandler book that Mrs. Houseman put on hold for him on Saturday morning as soon as she arrived.  They both noticed Bucky in line with the other patrons and smiled at him when he presented his card and the two Lewis books.  Mrs. Houseman brought the Chandler book over to Ariel to sign out to him.  When the return date was stamped on the Return by slip fastened above the book pocket he leaned closer to Ariel.

"I'll wait outside for you," he said loud enough for Alma and Irina to hear from their stations.  "We can go walking again, can't we?"

Ariel nodded her assent, bringing another brilliant smile from him that lit up the Library.  He sauntered out as she helped the next patron.  While she didn't look at the other two women, Mrs. Houseman leaned close so that Ariel could see her smile.  She, at least, was happy for the young librarian.  With an announcement of closing a couple of minutes before closing time, they helped all the remaining patrons sign out their books.  While the door was locked the women went through the library, pushing chairs in, picking up books left on the tables and placing them on the carts for re-shelving Monday as the Library was closed on Sundays.

Ariel went to the staff room to pick up her purse and coat.  Even there she could hear Alma and Irina whispering inside, with her name mentioned.  Before she entered to give them a piece of her mind she heard Mrs. Houseman's voice tell them to stop being gossips.

"You know a petition is being circulated asking for Sunday hours," she said loud enough for Ariel to hear.  "It would mean more work for those of you who are unmarried but don't think for a moment that I will assign you those hours if you treat Miss Black with anything but respect."

"We tried to warn her off of Barnes," said Alma's voice.  "He'll ruin her reputation."

"Or she'll improve his," stated Mrs. Houseman.  "You only have yourselves to blame for giving in so quickly to him.  Look, girls, he's an attractive man with a healthy interest in the opposite sex.  If he prefers Miss Black to you then accept it.  I personally think he has good intentions for her and I'm willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.  I don't want to hear you making insinuations about Miss Black's reputation.  If I hear any gossip spreading here I will know it came from you."

Quickly, Ariel stepped into the ladies room to wash her hands.  Mrs. Houseman came in and looked at her, shaking her head in exasperation.

"You heard them," she stated.  "They're jealous of you.  Both of them fell prey to his charms on the first date but were disappointed when he didn't call either of them for a second.  He is a womanizer but he's not a gossip, never once have I heard of him bragging about his exploits.  The girls on the other hand ...." She sighed.  "He hasn't had an easy time of it.  His father was in the military then lost an eye in an accident.  The only job he could get after was at the shipyard.  At least he had a job but the family's prospects dropped considerably, especially during the Depression, forcing Bucky to work manual labour instead of going to college.  Bucky is smart, whip smart, but also cursed with a handsome face, attractive body, and an easy attitude towards women.  Both your uncle, Mr. Burnett, and I have encouraged him to be more well read."

"You know my uncle?" asked Ariel, not realizing they were acquainted.

"Quite well," she said, "better than you think, and I say that with the greatest delicacy."  She looked at the door to make sure there were no eavesdropper's legs visible through the grate at the bottom.  "If you and Bucky are an item, be discreet.  Encourage him to better himself.  He is a fine man but he needs to hear that to believe it.  Now, I really must be going.  Mr. Houseman will be wanting his dinner on the table before 7 o'clock."

She went into a stall while Ariel went into the staff room, empty now, to pick up her coat and purse.  The security guard was on duty at the door and smiled at her as he unlocked it for her to leave.  Bucky sat on the steps and stood up, his books in his arms, as she came out.

"I was worried when you didn't come out right away," he said.  "Everything alright?"

"Just had a little chat with Mrs. Houseman," she replied, then she smiled at him as they began walking.  "How was your day?"

"I did some yard work for my mother," he said.  "Trimmed some plants, dug up some vegetables that were ready."  He looked down for a moment.  "I told them I stayed at Steve's last night.  You might not believe me but I've never spent the whole night with a woman.  Usually, I leave after ... you know."

"That's quite an admission to make," noted Ariel.  "Why are you telling me?"

"Because I don't want there to be any secrets between us," he admitted.  "I meant what I said about finding a girl to commit to.  I really want it to be you."

His face was flushed and for a moment Ariel almost wanted to tell him everything but she bit her tongue and instead placed her hand in the crook of his free arm, then lightly leaned her head against his arm.  Aside from the warm feeling it gave her it was definitely new information about the enigmatic man James "Bucky" Barnes, information which justified the increased familiarity of this assignment.

"So, what does Bucky Barnes do on a Saturday night and on a Sunday?" she asked breezily.

"Well, tonight I thought we could take the bus to Prospect Park," he said.  "There's a free outdoor concert.   Several jazz musicians are supposed to be there but it's a surprise who."

"That sounds like fun," replied Ariel. "I would love to go."

"Are you alright if Steve comes with us?" he asked, with a hopeful catch in his voice.

"Certainly, why wouldn't I be?" she retorted. 

"You're the best, you know that, right?" he smiled broadly.  "Do you think your uncle will lend us the van to go to the beach tomorrow?  My parents go to church and need the car for that."

"You're just full of surprises," she replied.  "I'll ask.  What do I wear to a concert in the park?"

"Not as dressy as dinner last night," he said.  "If you have a nice summer dress and bring a sweater.  Bare legs are alright.  Most of the women that go don't wear stockings because of the heat and the dancing.  It's perfectly respectable."

Soon they were at the antique store and waved to Merton as he helped a customer inside.  Bucky pulled Ariel into the stairwell again and they stood in the heat at the bottom of the stairs.  Putting his books on the bottom step Bucky put his arms around Ariel and kissed her firmly. 

"I like your lips," he said when he stopped the kiss.  "They're so soft.  I just want to kiss them all the time."

"Thank you," she replied.  "You're a good kisser.  When are you staying over at Steve's again?"

He grinned then looked intently at her.  "Anytime you want," he said soberly.  "I liked waking up with you in my arms."

"So did I," replied Ariel, then she cupped his jaw with her hand and they kissed again, more sensuously.

"I'll be back at 7 o'clock," he said.  "The concert starts at 8:15 and it will take us a while to get there."

He almost said something else but smiled and opened the stairwell door instead then stepped out onto the street.  Ariel noticed he left the books on the step and called to him, handing him the three books.  Taking them from her hands he walked away, looking back a couple of times.  She went into the store where Merton was now alone.  He was tallying up the day's sales as he looked at her from his ledger.

"Plans for tonight?" he asked.

"Free concert at Prospect Park," she said.  "Steve is coming with us.  He told his parents he stayed over at Steve's last night.  Said he never slept over with any of his dates before."

"That's new information," said Merton.  "Some of those concerts are quite good.  Did he say who's performing?"

"Apparently it's a surprise," she replied.  "Before I forget he wanted to know if he could borrow the van tomorrow so we could go to the beach."

"I think so," said the older man.  "It would be best to go early and stake out a good spot before it gets too crowded.  Sounds like a fun weekend, what's left of it."  He saw that Ariel seemed distracted.  "Anything else?"

"Oh, the librarian Mrs. Houseman, said she knew you," she replied.  "Said you and her both encouraged Bucky to improve his mind.  Is she aware you're gay?"

"The short answer is yes," he said.  "There was a time I was a little indiscreet and she was sympathetic to me.  We have a very good and friendly acquaintance.  She doesn't judge me and I don't judge her.  I can't tell you any more than that without her permission."

"She's gay, isn't she?" asked Ariel, making a guess but Merton wouldn't answer so she left it alone.  "Bucky is coming for me at 7 o'clock.  What can I make you for dinner?"

"I already prepared some vegetarian lasagne," said Merton.  "Just heat the oven up to 425 and pop it in for about 30 minutes.  I thought you might like a break from all the meat dishes."

"Thank you," replied Ariel.  "I appreciate that.  You know, I'm actually enjoying the meat.  It's quite tasty."

He smiled at her, then returned his attention back to his ledger.  She went upstairs, turned on the oven and took the lasagne out of the icebox.  Rosie rubbed around her legs so she opened a tin of tuna for the kitten, spooning it out into her dish and mashing it down a bit.  While she set the table she wrote in the diary about what Bucky admitted to her.  By then the oven was hot enough and she put the lasagne in, noting the time.  She went to her closet to choose a dress for the concert and noticed a small box on her dresser.  Opening it she smiled as it held a bracelet, gold in colour with small coloured enamel flower sections on it.  She attached it to her wrist and looked at it in the mirror.  Glancing at the window, she shook her head, thinking of Bucky sneaking in during the day to leave her the gift.  As she picked up the box a small slip of paper fell out and she opened it.

A little gift for my steady girl.

B.

"Oh, you are a romantic at heart, aren't you?" she said out loud.

Immediately Ariel took the diary out and wrote about finding the box on her dresser.  Knowing money was tight she expressed concern about Bucky spending money on what could be seen as frivolous gifts but she was flattered by the thought.  Checking her watch she saw it was almost time to take the lasagne out and she went out to the kitchen where Merton was.  He glanced at her as she came in so she held her right hand up to show him the bracelet.

"How much did you charge him?" she asked.

"I charged him exactly what he offered," he said, somewhat defiantly.  "He wanted you to have something pretty from him and he liked it."

"Merton, you can't let him spend money on frivolous purchases like this," she admonished him.  "Money is tight."

"I'm not going to say no to the man," he replied.  "He likes you, more than likes you.  At least if he comes to me I'll make sure he gets value for his money.  Now be a good girl and accept the gift."  He looked up at her with a horrified expression on his face.  "I'm so sorry it came out like that.  I think I've been here too long."

Ariel began to laugh.  "Your face just now," she said.  "It was priceless.  Alright, but don't let him spend too much on me."

They sat down to their meal, talking about events of the day.  When they were finished Ariel began to clean up but Merton sent her to get ready instead.  By the time she was finished Bucky and Steve were there with a bouquet of flowers like he promised.  She took a vase out of the cupboard and filled it with water, arranging the flowers in it.  Then she thanked him for the flowers and the bracelet.  He tried to say he didn't know what she was talking about but Merton shook his head.

"She figured it out pretty quickly," he said.  "She's one smart cookie, Bucky.  You won't get much past her.  Oh, and you can borrow the van for the beach tomorrow.  Just make sure to put some gas in it."

Bucky agreed and they headed down the stairs to catch the bus to Prospect Park.  The closer they got the more people got on and both Steve and Bucky speculated that the rumours were true about who was performing.

"Who do you think is playing?" asked Ariel.

"Benny Goodman," said Bucky. "If so it will be a dance concert.  We'll be up there all the time."

"Bucky, I told you I'm not a good dancer," said Ariel.

"Darling, I can make you look good, trust me," he said, putting his arm around her.

When she wouldn't respond he made pouty faces at her to make her laugh and she finally had to give in.

"I'm not a good dancer either," said Steve.  "But I'm willing to give it a go, if you will.  You'll let me dance with Ariel, won't you Buck?"

"Sure, just not the romantic ones," he said.  "You'll have to find your own girl for that."

Steve turned beet red, and immediately Bucky put his hand on his friend's arm, then gave him a friendly smile, knowing he had touched a nerve.  More people crowded onto the bus and both men gave up their seats for some women.  Although they gave Bucky the eye he made sure they knew he was there with Ariel.  Eventually they arrived at Prospect Park, finding it quite crowded.  They finally found some seats and Bucky suggested taking their jackets and sweater off to reserve their chairs.  It was a very warm evening and others were doing the same so Ariel took her sweater off.  As the two men speculated it was confirmed that the Benny Goodman orchestra was performing, with Helen Forrest singing.  Bucky was over the moon.  Fortunately for Ariel she had listened to some Benny Goodman recordings and watched some ancient film footage of the band so was somewhat familiar with the musicians in Goodman's band.  For herself she was looking forward to seeing Gene Krupa play drums having seen his intense performance of Sing, Sing, Sing on footage from an appearance of the band in a film and with his own quartet on the Ed Sullivan Show sometime in the 1950s.

"Do you think they'll play Sing, Sing, Sing?" she asked.  "I love that song."

"I hope so," said Bucky.  "If they do it will be the last song.  Darling, would you be offended if I danced with someone else for it?  It's pretty energetic and I wouldn't want you to try it without some practice with me."

"You can dance with anyone, Bucky," she said.  "As long as they know you're going home with me."

He kissed her enthusiastically on the cheek and by the smile on Steve's face it was the right answer.   Soon, the musicians took the stage and Benny Goodman was announced.  When he came out, Ariel was surprised how normal he appeared considering he was one of the top jazz artists of the time.  He reminded her of a mild mannered teacher.  As Goodman stood in front of the crowd he commented on how many couples seemed to be there that night so to get things going the band would play Taking a Chance on Love.  Immediately Bucky stood up, took Ariel's hand and proceeded to show her what a good dancer he was.  When he said he could make her look good he wasn't kidding as he led her so well she thought she was in a movie musical.  The next song was How Long Has This Been Going On? introduced as a new arrangement.  The third straight song they danced to was The Man I Love sung by Forrest but played only by Goodman, his piano player, the drummer, and a man on the xylophone.  Bucky bent his head close to Ariel's while they danced, close enough that she could feel his breath on her neck.  It was very intimate and when it was over he looked intently at her.  They sat for a breather and listened to some of the faster tunes.  By the look on Bucky's face she could see he wanted to be out there dancing and she felt bad that her dancing wasn't up to his level.  Tugging on his sleeve she raised her lips to his ear.

"I don't mind if you dance the faster ones with someone else," she said loudly.  "Really.  I like watching you dance.  Just come back to me for the slow ones."

He looked at her and kissed her intimately on the forehead.  "I love you," he said, then he got up and found a single girl who agreed to dance with him.

For a moment Ariel didn't know whether to laugh or cry but she must have had some look on her face because Steve leaned towards her and put his hand on her arm.

"Are you alright?" he asked, his face close to her ear.  "Did Bucky say something bad?"

"No, he said he loved me," she admitted, then she did cry, stunned that his words would affect her so much.

Immediately, Steve took his handkerchief out and gave it to her.  He held her hand while she dabbed her tears with the handkerchief through two fast songs.  When Bucky came back and saw she was crying he frowned and sat next to Ariel, then looked at Steve, his face confused.

"Are you mad at me, doll?" She shook her head no.  "You told me to dance the fast ones with another girl."  She nodded her head yes.  "Then what's wrong?"

Ariel began crying again so Steve motioned him close.  "You told her you loved her," he said loudly, in Bucky's ear.

The band was particularly loud at that moment but neither of them needed to hear as Bucky very clearly mouthed the word "shit."  He took a deep breath and put his arm around Ariel, holding her close and bending his head to hers.  Pressing his lips to the side of her head he ignored the band and looked intensely at the crying woman in his arms.  Then he picked up her left hand and kissed it.  Suddenly she got up and ran towards the back of the audience.  Bucky stood up and ran after her, leaving Steve to look behind him then he faced forward and stayed where he was.  This was Bucky's mess and he would have to fix it.

At the back Bucky lost sight of Ariel but an acquaintance he recognized asked if he was looking for the crying girl and pointed in the direction she went.  Bucky ran in that direction and finally found her on the path surrounding the pond.  She was standing looking over the water, her shoulders hunched over.  He ran towards her, slowing up as he got closer.  Unsure what to say he stepped in front of her and ran his hands over her upper arms.  Her sobs subsided and with the sounds of the music in the background he looked at her in the darkness, lit by the rising moon.

"Has no one ever told you they loved you before?" he asked gently.  She shook her head no.  "So, you're not ready to hear it yet?  Is that what this is about?" She nodded yes and Bucky took a deep breath, looking up at the sky.  "It just slipped out but I've felt it all day, since last night.  Do you like me?"  She looked up at him and he could see how emotional she was so he nodded.  "I'll take that as a yes.  Do you think you might love me, but you're afraid to say it?"  She looked away and nodded yes.  "I can understand that.  I didn't even realize I said it.  I'm not sorry I said it, Ariel.  It's true and it's frightening for me, but obviously not as frightening as it is for you.  Oh Baby, come here."

He held her close in his arms and she wrapped her arms around him, feeling his heart pound through his shirt.  The declaration had caught her completely by surprise and even though she knew pragmatically that it was said in a matter of fact way it hit her hard.  She had never told anyone she loved them or been told that in return.  Despite her active sex life in college it had never been more than casual sex, ever.  Now it was, and she was torn between telling Bucky everything or continuing to pretend she was a 1940s woman.  The problem was that if she told him she knew it would make him angry, if he didn't think she was crazy first.  But the longer she didn't tell him the more she felt like an imposter, that she was leading him on, even though she did have feelings for him, strong, deep feelings.  She took a ragged breath and buried her face in his chest, feeling safe there and he accepted it, not moving, or asking her to do anything but be there with him.  After several minutes Ariel finally felt calm enough to let Bucky go and she stepped back looking at him.  He bent over, placed his hand on her cheek and kissed her, then smiled, as if confirming she was better.

"Do you want to go back now?" he asked.  "It is is a good concert, isn't it?"

"It's the best," she said.  "I'm sorry I ruined it."

"You ruined nothing," he replied emphatically.  "You're my girl and nothing you do ruins anything.  Come on, it will be intermission soon and I'll get you a shaved ice."

After nodding her head in agreement, Bucky put his arm around her and led her back to their seats.  The intermission came up a couple of songs later and he went to get them some shaved ice, bringing three back.  She returned Steve's handkerchief, thanking him for it.  The smaller man looked at her sympathetically but said nothing, which she appreciated.  Before the second half started she told Bucky to dance and she would watch, then kissed him full on the lips in front of everyone after she said it, to make sure he knew she was okay with it. 

The second half was fun as the energy level of the dancers was high, Bucky included.  There were a couple of slow songs that he returned to Ariel for and even a couple that Steve danced with her but he danced the rest of the energetic songs with assorted women including the finale, Sing, Sing, Sing, which was over 8 minutes long by Ariel's estimation.  She was torn between watching Bucky dance and watching Gene Krupa pound the drums.  After a standing ovation for the band with the rest of the dancers Bucky returned to Ariel's side, kissing her firmly.  Then he put his arm around her shoulders and they began making their way through the crowd, before queuing for the bus.  It was well after midnight when the two men stood outside the antique store with Ariel.

"I had a good time with you two," said Steve, offering Ariel his hand.  "I'm glad you worked out your misunderstanding."

Ariel kissed Steve on the cheek.  "Thank you for being there for me," she said.  "You are a gentleman, Steve.  I know there's someone for you and you will find her one day."

He blushed, noticeable even in the dark, and walked about half a block away so they could have their privacy.  Bucky caressed her cheek, smiling softly at her.

"It doesn't look like I'm staying over tonight," he said quietly.  "You are important to me, Ariel.  What you did tonight, trusting me to dance with other women meant so much to me."  He looked up at the sky and suddenly smiled, pointing upwards.  "Meteor.  That's supposed to be good luck, isn't it?  A shooting star?" 

He looked back at Ariel and gathered her in his arms, kissing her passionately.  She returned his embrace just as passionately.  Then she swallowed hard and pulled Bucky's head down to hers.

"I love you, too," she whispered, before she turned and opened the door, running up the stairs before he could say anything.

He stood and watched the door for several moments, debating whether he should go after her or go home.  Reason won out and he began walking towards Steve, then looked back at the second floor apartment and a soft smile crossed his face.  She loved him.

Chapter 6>>

Series Masterlist

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[silverwasafukintrainwreck]

hello! here’s a masterpost of songs i like and my favorite lyrics from each of them! if you’re looking for recs or are just interested, it’s all under the cut!!

"I am an artist, please God forgive me." -Art is Dead, Bo Burnham

"I'll be the jester; entertain ya to the best of my ability." -Test Me, Melanie Martinez

"Don't need money, don't need fame, I just want to make a change." -Oh No!, MARINA

"Maybe if you tried more, then you would deserve it. Maybe if you fixed the whole world by yourself, then you'd earn it!" -Self Care, Penelope Scott

"Eu vi em seus olhos sorte, com um toque máximo de azar; Um grande grau de morte, trazido de outro lugar." -O Treco, k a m a i t a c h i

"A spider preaching with poison on its lips: 'To get out of here is to promise me a kiss.” -Honey, I'm Home, Ghost and pals

"Porque eu sou foda, foda pra caralho, e eu que inventei que a inveja não mata." - Arrogância, Lourandes

"Am I the most fuckin' fantastic freak you've ever seen?" -Beautiful is Boring, BONES UK

"Well, say my limbs are torn apart, and the stuffing falls out; Let the toy wind down, it should've never been wound." -Amygdala's Ragdoll, Ghost and pals

"Welcome, to the land of the broken minds!" -Little Game, BENNY (seriously listen to this song it's so fucking good. it’s about being trans)

"Hi, nice to meet ya! got nothing to believe in! So let me know when my breathing stops." -Parents, YUNGBLUD

“In my defense I wasn’t supposed to be around this long?” -Cigarette Ahegao, Penelope Scott

“I think i might have died there twice and I would do it all again.” -Feel Better, Penelope Scott

“Caught me like a bad tattoo; Always under skin even when it gets removed.” -THE CONTORTIONIST, Melanie Martinez

“But I can’t let her see me swoon, or else she will think I am weak.” -Butch4Butch, Rio Romero

“If you can’t handle the choking, the biting, the loving, the smothering, til you can’t handle it no more, no more… Go home.” -High School Sweethearts, Melanie Martinez

“Tu portami dove sto a galla, che qui mi manca l’aria.” -ZITTI E BUONI, Måneskin

“Instead of being sixteen and burning up a bible, feeling super super super super, suicidal.” -Teen Idle, MARINA

“I got so good at being untrue, I got so good at telling you what you wanna hear; i disassociate, disappear.” -Poison, Hazbin Hotel/Blake Roman

“Kick me, punch me, I don’t care; slap me, scold me, pull my hair. Beat me til i’m blue, is that what you wanna do?” -FRESH WOUNDS, Chai (this is a mikan tsumiki song! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!)

“You have to stop the world just to stop the feeling.” -Good luck, babe!, Chappell Roan

“São ruas sem fim, vias de fato aos pés de quem - desrespeitou sinais, e atravessou ileso; decidiu flutuar que se plantar de peso.” -Vias de fato, metá metá

“Should I choose a noble occupation? If I did, I’d only show up late and sick. […] Plus my only natural talent’s wasted in my alcoholic friends.” -My Alcoholic Friends, The Dresden Dolls

“Apathy’s a tragedy and boredom is a crime. Anything and everything, all of the time!” -Welcome to The Internet, Bo Burnham

“She just can’t help but be this way, she lost her true self long ago, now all of her friends have been pushed away because a caricature is all they know.” -Candle Queen, Ghost and Pals

“Living life like I’m in a play, in the limelight i want to stay. I know i got a big ego, I really don’t know why it’s such a big deal, though.” -Primadonna, MARINA

“Nem todo trajeto é reto. Nem o mar é regular.” -Cobra Rasteira, Metá Metá

i’ll add more later!!

[danses-with-dogmeat]

2000 Followers Celebration!!!

& Fallout Alphabet Poll End Results!

Hey all, so the secret is out! (Kinda) But all these past polls have been the prelude to my 2K Followers Celebration BONANZA. (That's not the official title, I just wanted to use the word BONANZA).

Anyway, a HUGE, MASSIVE thank you to every single one of you folks who are a part of this little community and who've supported me and my fanfiction writing journey for the past few years (which is crazy that it's been that long, omg.) But I love and appreciate you all SO MUCH and am absolutely baffled that I've made it to this. I thought 100 was crazy, then I thought 1K was crazy and then it just kept on going! Ahh, I'm just so so so glad that there's a thriving Fallout community out here of amazing writers, artists, and fans that are still so involved 😊

I don't know what I would do without this space, so thank you all for being a part of it <3

ANYWAY (x2) Here are the final results to all 22 polls that I posted, with more event details just below!

So I've posted the 1st place winners, 2nd place, and then a 3rd "runner up" position that will only be filled by non-companion npcs, just to give them a chance to shine, and me a chance to write for some folks I'm not as used to. For the purposes of the 2k event, I will only be using the 1st place winners for the 'prompts' (which I'll explain in another post), and then a few of the 2nd placers and (almost) all of the runner ups will be used in ANOTHER upcoming event that I'm going to start prepping for (because I'm an insane person).

--

A:

1st: Arcade Israel Gannon

2nd: Arthur Maxson

3rd: Dr. Amari

B:

1st: Benny Gecko

2nd: Butch Deloria

3rd: Beatrix Russell

C:

1st: Charon

2nd: Craig Boone

3rd: Caesar

D:

1st: Deacon

2nd: Danse

3rd: Dazzle

E:

1st: ED-E

2nd: Easy Pete

3rd: Edward Deegan

F:

1st: Fawkes

2nd: Fahrenheit

3rd: Fantastic

G:

1st: Gob

2nd: Glory

3rd: Gary(s)

H:

1st: Robert Edwin House

2nd: Harold

3rd: Harkness

I/O:

1st: Old Longfellow

2nd: Captain Ironsides

3rd: Oliver Swanick

J:

1st: John Hancock

2nd: Joshua Graham

3rd: Julie Farkas

K:

1st: The King

2nd: KL-E-O

3rd: Kent Connolly

L:

1st: Lily Bowen

2nd: Legate Lanius

3rd: Red Lucy

M:

1st: Mysterious Stranger

2nd: Magnolia

3rd: Moira Brown

N:

1st: Nick Valentine

2nd: No Bark Noonan

3rd: Nate/Nora

P:

1st: Preston Garvey

2nd: Primm Slim

3rd: Pickman

Q/U/X:

1st: Ulysses

2nd: X6-88

3rd: Dr. Usanagi

R:

1st: Raul Alphonse Tejada

2nd: Robert Joseph MacCready

3rd: Rotface

S:

1st: Sunny Smiles

2nd: Sturges

3rd: Swank

T:

1st: Three Dog

2nd: Tinker Tom

3rd: Travis Miles

V:

1st: Veronica Santangelo

2nd: Victor

3rd: Vulpes Inculta

W:

1st: Whitechapel Charlie

2nd: Wiseman

3rd: Winthrop

Y/Z:

1st: Yes Man

2nd: Captain Zao

3rd: Yefim Bobrov

[vircan]

Something for art final (*ﾟ▽ﾟ*)

Yeah, I’m already done with half of 10th grade. That’s scary. I’m scared LOL

If I have to do art final. We have to draw it in α famous artists style.

I picked Takahashi Rumiko. (Lum, Inuyasha)

It’s BENNIE K’s first album cover 「CUBE」

[biggiegeorges]

2023, a year in music

Janvier

Boldy James - Indiana Jones [Rap]

Ice Spice - Like...? [Rap]

Popstar Benny - University! [Rap]

Lakecia Benjamin - Phoenix [Jazz]

Malcolm Stracham - Point of no return [Jazz Fusion]

Lucas Santtana - O Paraiso [Brasilian Folk]

Icytwat - Siddhi World (Deluxe) [Rap]

Shaudy Kash & Top$ide - On The Yeah Side 2 [Rap]

Boogotti Kasino - Pink House [Rap]

MarijuanaXO & TGE L Masi - Ball Til We Fall [Rap]

RX Papi - Marlo [Rap]

Bic Fizzle - Clark Street Baby [Rap]

qua - Solo Tape [Jersey Club]

Slimesito - Paid N Full [Rap]

SteezTheProducer - Versatility [Jersey Club]

Février

Meemo Comma - Loverboy [Electronic]

Lokowat - Elementos [Batida]

Kelela - Raven [RnB]

Dai Ballin - 448 pt.2 [Rap]

Liv.E - Girl In The Half Pearl [RnB]

Young Nudy - Gumbo [Rap]

3Phaz - Ends Meet [Electronic]

Acid Arab - Trois [Electronic]

Caroline Polachek - Desire I want to turn into you [Pop]

Christian Mcbride's New Jawn - Prime [Jazz]

Braxton Cook - Who are you when no one is watching [Jazz / Soul]

WB Nutty - Im not an artist [Rap]

Paco Panama - The Wire vol.1 [Rap]

Shaudy Kash - Ghetto Heartthrob 2 [Rap]

Ayoolii - 2 Grams [Rap]

Ayoolii & Run Along Forever - Crashing Tf Out [Rap]

SME Taxfree & Big Homie Dre Cash - Just Like Brothers [Rap]

Karol G - Manana Sera Bonito [Cumbia]

LilC4 - The Blueprint [Jersey Club]

Cashcache! & Slime Dollaz - The Life of Slime [Rap]

Yeat - Aftërlyfe [Rap]

Mari Montana - Outstanding Member [Rap]

Tae rackzz - Who Is Ju ? [Rap]

Mars

RXKNephew - Till I'm Dead [Rap]

Mariboy Mula Mar - Effortless [Rap]

RXK Nephew - Ready 2 Ball [Rap]

Tisakorean - Let Me Update My Status [Rap]

Luh Tyler - My Vision [Rap]

CEO Trayle - The Collection vol.2 [Rap]

DJ Girl - Hellworld [Electronic]

Lonnie Holley - Oh me Oh my [Soul]

Adi Oasis - Lotus Glow [Soul]

Kali Uchis - Red Moon in Venus [Soul]

Cécile McLorin Salvant - Mélusine [Jazz]

Lojay - Gangster Romantic [Afrobeat]

Boygenius - The Record [Pop]

Billy Childs - The Wind Of Change [Jazz]

Surgeon - Crash Recoil [Techno]

Bear1Boss - Blow Up! [Rap]

Yves Tumor - Praise A Lord Who Chews But Which Does Not Consume [Rock]

Subiibabii - Webb2 [Rap]

Lucile Ghatti - Tears From A Clown [RnB]

Vayda - Breeze [Rap]

Avril

DJ Finale - Mille Morceau [Afrobeat]

DJ Danifox - Ansiedade [Batida]

Nondi_ - Flood City Trax [Footwork/Techno]

Jim Legxacy - Homeless N*gga Pop Music [RnB]

Niontay - Dontay's Inferno [Rap]

Nourished By Time - Erotic Probiotic 2 [Pop]

MC Yallah - Yallah Beibe [Rap]

BackwoodzStudioz - High Bias [Rap]

Babsy Konate - Tounga [Gao Rap]

Fly Anakin - Skinemaxxx Side A [Rap]

Icytwat - Have Mercy On Us [Rap]

SME Taxfree - I'm Still Industreet [Rap]

Kara Jackson - Why does the Earth give us people to love [Folk]

Kiko El Crazy - Pila'e Teteo [Dembow]

Funny $Money & OTR Trapbaby - Trap Money [Rap]

Myaap - No Guarntee vol.1 [Rap]

Jass Clutch - No Deal [Rap]

Mariboy Mula Mar - Mula Ova Errthing [Rap]

Ayoolii - Brudderman [Rap]

Mai

Hitech - Detwat [Ghettotech]

Billy Woods & Kenny Segal - Maps [Rap]

Idlibra - Muganga [Electronic]

Guiss Guiss Bou Bess - Jolof Bass Music [Electro Sabar]

DJ Ramemes - Sem Limites [Baile Funk]

3Phaz - Drumtratrax [Electronic]

RP Boo - Legacy vol.2 [Footwork]

Ghetto Baby Boom - Boom Talk [Rap]

RXK Nephew - Neph Crockett [Rap]

RXK Nephew - Drunk Nights [Rap]

RXK Nephew - Summer in Miami [Rap]

SME Taxfree & Dai Ballin - House Party [Rap]

Gale - Lo Que No Te Dije [Pop]

Baby Stone Gorillas - Babyst5xne Gorillas 2 [Rap]

Smoke Chapo - Over The Counter [Rap]

RRB Duck - Back in tha K [Rap]

Vayda - Dawn [Rap]

Paco Panama & Deemuney - Faces of the Hill [Rap]

Juin

Veeze - Ganger [Rap]

Sexyy Red - Hood Hottest Princess [Rap]

Peso Pluma - Genesis [Corrido]

Asake - Work Of Art [Afrobeat]

Certified Trapper - Trapper of the Year [Rap]

Amaarae - Fountain Baby [Afropop]

Nicky Schrire - Nowhere Girl [Jazz]

Blue Lake - Sun Arcs [Folk]

Nicola Conte - Umoja [Jazz]

Ambrose Akinmusire - Beauty Is Enough [Jazz]

David Kofi - Live At Late Night Jazz Royal Albert Hall [Jazz]

Ayoolii - Montessori [Rap]

RXK Nephew - The ONEderful Nephew [Rap]

RXK Nephew - Shawty RXK Too 3 [Rap]

Glokk40spaz - Glokk Files [Rap]

RealYungPhil - Victory Music [Rap]

WifiGawd & Gawd - Block Music [Rap]

RRB Cheese & RRB Mel - Shake Da Blender 1 [Rap]

Vontee The Singer - Lovers & Friends [RnB]

Rylo Rodriguez - Been One [Rap]

Babydrill - Madman [Rap]

D30 - Turn the Streetz Up [Rap]

Louie Ray - Even Stronger [Rap]

Super Throwed Dave - Smacking Fire [Rap]

Juillet

African Head Charge - A Trip to Bolgatanga [Experimental]

Bandgang Lonnie Bands - Bam Bam [Rap]

DJ K - Panico No Submundo [Baile Funk]

Babyface Ray - Summer's Mine [Rap]

Surf Gang - Fast 5 [Rap]

RX Papi - My name Is my Name [Rap]

Matt Wilde - Hello World [Jazz]

Icytwat - Final Boss [Rap]

Fly Anakin - Skinemaxxx Side B [Rap]

Ayoolii - Enigma [Rap]

DJ WS Da Igrejinha - Caça Fantasma vol.1 [Baile Funk]

Gordão Do PC - Victor Era Meu Nome de Nerd [Baile Funk]

MC Saci - Funktroit [Baile Funk]

D.Silvestre - Espanta Gringo [Baile Funk]

John Coltrane & Eric Dolphy - Evenings at the Village Gate [Jazz]

Carly Rae Jepsen - The Loveliest Time [Pop]

Papo2004 - Pap on P.E.D.'s [Rap]

Subiibabii - Swag School [Rap]

Icytwat - 4 Da Troopz [Rap]

Babyxsosa - Bling Bling [RnB]

Osamason - Osama Season [Rap]

Myaap - Worth The Wait [Rap]

Louie Ray - We still don't grind the same [Rap]

SuperThrowed Fay Fay - FreeBandz Forever [Rap]

Août

DJs Di Guetto - DJs Di Guetto [Batida]

Alfredo Rodriguez - Coral Way [Latin Jazz]

Jaimie Branch - Fly or Die Fly or Die Fly or Die ((World Jazz)) [Jazz]

Zach Bryan - Zach Bryan [Country]

Emma Rawicz - Chroma [Jazz]

Sha EK & Bandmanrill - Jiggy in Jersey [Jersey Club]

Grupo Frontera - El Comienzo [Cumbia]

Paco Panama - The Matrix [Rap]

Lay Bankz - Now You See Me [Rap]

Jass Clutch - Hustle && Flow [Rap]

Dai Ballin - BallHog [Rap]

YTB Fatt - Who is Fatt [Rap]

Septembre

Slowdive - Everything Is Alive [Shoegaze]

Jlin - Perspective [Electronic]

DJ Arana - Rock Pesado 2 [Baile Funk]

Ruger - Ru The World [Afropop]

Cash Cobain - Pretty Girls Love Slizzy [Rap]

Tropa Do Bruxo - Baile Do Bruxo [Baile Funk]

Yussef Dayes - Black Classical Music [Jazz]

Jalen Ngonda - Come Around And Love Me [RnB]

DJ Znobia - Inventor vol.1 [Kuduro]

Deena Abdelwahed - Jbal Rrsas [Electronic]

Club Casualties - Bridge Underwater [Pop]

Olivia Rodrigo - Guts [Pop]

Margo Cilker - Valley of Heart's Delight [Country]

Cléo Sol - Gold [RnB]

Cléo Sol - Heaven [RnB]

Kamaal Williams - Strings [Jazz]

SME Taxfree - My whole life a mob movie [Rap]

Tinashe - BB/Ang3l [RnB]

Chicken P - Ain't Lost Shit [Rap]

Chappell Roan - The Rise And Fall Of A Midwest Princess [Pop]

Goldenboy Countup - Dawg Pound [Rap]

2sdxrt3all - Fuck School [Rap]

SCY Jimm - Highly Favored [Rap]

2rare - Truth or Rare [Rap]

Octobre

Black Pumas - Chronicles of a Diamond [Soul]

Vanyfox - Sonho Azul [Batida]

Xexa - Vibracoes de Prata [Electronic]

Nidia - 95 Mindjeres [Batida]

Philly Goats - Philly Goats [Jersey Club]

DJ Jeeh FDC - Alcateia [Baile Funk]

Bad Bunny - Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Manana [Latin Trap]

Junior H - $ad Boyz 4 Life II [Corrido]

Guiss Guiss Bou Bess - Drum N' Mbalax [Electro Sabar]

EQ Why - Dance Floor [Footwork]

Mike Reed - The Separatist Party [Jazz]

Shaudy Kash - Mr Bitche$$$ [Rap]

D'Cantwo Junior - Sayajins [Baile Funk]

Ayoolii - No Love [Rap]

Ayoolii - Nailed It [Rap]

RXK Nephew - Certified Alcoholic [Rap]

Pangaea - Changing Channels [House]

DJ P7 - Funk Deluxe 3 [Baile Funk]

EthanUno & KimJ - Mexikoreano [Jerseychata / Hyperpop]

WifiGawd - Been Bout It [Rap]

Ken Carson - A Great Chaos [Rap]

Brent Faiyaz - Larger Than Life [RnB]

Fuerza Regida - Pa las Baby's y Belikeada [Corrido]

Che - Crueger [Rap]

KP Skywalka - Rhythm N Bip [Rap]

YT - #Stillswaggin [Rap]

L5 - Blood on Switch Street [Rap]

Novembre

DJ Manny - Hypnotized [Footwork]

DJ Ramon Successo - Sexta Dos Crios [Baile Funk]

Chuquimamani-Condori - DJ E [Experimental]

Bear1Boss - Lil Hot Sauce [Rap]

41 - 41 World : Not The Album [Rap]

Babyxsosa - Babyxsosa [Rap]

CEO Trayle - The Collection vol.3 [Rap]

Joey Alexander - Continuance [Jazz]

Aziz Konkrite - Siba Sawt-System #1 [Electro]

Teni - Tears of The Sun [Afropop]

Bate1Prod - Longa Espera [Batida]

H31R - Headspace [Rap]

Chris Stapleton - Higher [Country]

cabezadenego, Leyblack & M'Bé - Mimosa [Experimental]

DJ Ramemes - Tamborzin de volta redonda [Baile Funk]

El Alfa - El Rey del Dembow [Dembow]

Loren Stillman - Time and again [Jazz]

RXK Nephew & Harry Fraud - Life After Neph [Rap]

Tia Maria Produçoes - São Dicas [Batida]

Wizz Havinn - Super Wizz [Rap]

Actress - LXXXVIII [Electronic]

Kodak Black - When I was dead [Rap]

Duwap Kaine - Bully [Rap]

D30 - Trappers and Scammers [Rap]

Anycia - Extra [Rap]

MarijuanaXO & Joe Pablo - 30 Mil No Deal [Rap]

SME Taxfree - Standin On Bidness [Rap]

Raised Round Bosses - Ain't Nun Better Than A Cracked Phone 2 [Rap]

Yung Threat - Se Grim Reaper [Rap]

Décembre

Chicken P - Bussabrick vol.3 [Rap]

Starlito - Love Drug [Rap]

Iphupho L'Ka Biko - Azania [Jazz]

Ambrose Akinmusire - Owl Song [Jazz]

Ayoolii - Mindstate Of Luxury [Rap]

Tropa Do Bruxo - Baile Do Bruxo (Deluxe) [Baile Funk]

DJ Anderson Do Paraiso - Queridao [Baile Funk]

Vayda - Forrest Gump [Rap]

Osamason - Flex Music [Rap]

Wizz Havinn - Super Wizz The Sequel [Rap]

[fumandteam]

Benny’s moodboard

name: Bae Nayoung

born: July 6, 2005

stage name: Benny

Born in 2005, Bae Nayoung, known by her stage name Benny, is a multifaceted talent in the K-pop scene.

Growing up in a multicultural environment, Benny is of Korean-Danish descent, with her maternal grandmother being fully Danish.

Benny's journey into the world of entertainment began when she was scouted in 2017, eventually training with ITZY. However, she debuted as a soloist under JYP Entertainment in 2021.

education:

Benny attended school in both Korea and Denmark, reflecting her diverse cultural background. Having a strong academic foundation, Benny is known for excelling in her studies, balancing her education with her burgeoning career in the entertainment industry.

musical influences:

Benny draws inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including Standing Egg, Day6, Enhypen, and Taylor Swift. Their music resonates with her, influencing the emotive depth of her own compositions.

talents:

As the main dancer and face of her solo career, Benny's performances captivate audiences with her exceptional dancing skills and stage presence.

Quick-witted and humorous, Benny adds a delightful layer to her persona, earning her a reputation as an artist with both talent and charm.

hobbies:

Benny's passion for dance originated in her elementary school days when she also played soccer. These early experiences contribute to her versatility as an artist.Embracing the world of art and literature, Benny frequently visits galleries, vintage shops, bookstores, and museums.

style:

Benny's fashion sense is a fusion of chic and playful elements, characterized by pleated skirts, funky pants, rings, and her casual charm with converse shoes.

Her love for accessories extends to hairpieces and a keen eye for makeup, adding to her polished and put-together aesthetic.

personal details:

A cat enthusiast, Benny has a cat named Jamie.

Benny is proficient in multiple languages, including English, Korean, Danish, and a bit of Japanese.

She possesses a unique ability to memorize dances after watching them once, complemented by a perfect pitch in her singing.

personality traits:

Benny is known for her quick wit, humor, and a kind demeanor that endears her to fans.

She is supportive of fair treatment in the industry, advocating for healthy friendships between idols irrespective of gender.

friends:

Chaeryeong (ITZY): A sisterly figure providing guidance and encouragement in the competitive world of K-pop.

Wonyoung (IVE): A fellow idol with whom Benny shares a unique bond forged through common experiences.

Yunjin (Le Sserafim): A longtime friend, offering unwavering support in the unpredictable entertainment industry.

Jinyoung: A protective older brother who not only supports Benny but also came up with the affectionate nickname "Benny."

[originalvisual]

Just curious since you post some japanese music related stuff recently... how was your progression music wise? Did you get into jpop because of anime and stuff like so many and naturally migrated to kpop in later years? Do you still listen to japanese music and what are some of your favourits? So far I value your impaccable taste!

hi anon, you got it right! i grew up watching anime, got into jpop and jrock, then discovered kpop thanks to my friends and boa who's still my favourite singer 💓 i admit i don't follow jpop the same way as i used to, i'm not very familiar with newer popular artists but i listen a lot of my old faves. it's probably not gonna surprise you that i've always liked idols, especially from h!p (and also johnny's), later akb48 and their sister groups. i also love ggs like perfume or zone and sooooo many soloists. utada hikaru and nakashima mika will always be my most beloved ones but i also listen to otsuka ai, amuro namie, hoshino gen, hirai ken, yaida hitomi, mukai taichi, shibasaki kou, sheena ringo, miliyah... as for more groups, from the top of my head i could name paris match, yuzu, moumoon, monkey majik, bennie k, foxxi misq, capsule... sorry for listing so many but i could seriously go on and on and on... 😅 i'm sure you know how it is lol!

lately i've been in the mood for endlicheri*endlicheri, some of his stuff is great for emo days 🫠

how about you, anon? what's your story? 😉 if you like any new artists then i'll be happy to hear some recs!

[okcoolthanks]

My entire THING is lesser known music artists!!!!!

MAY I introduce yall to The Skin Cells (one album and it Slaps)

Macseal (only listened to one album but I liked it)

BENNY BENJI IS SO GOID DUDE YOU DONT EVEN K N O W they’re more quiet but I LOVE it

I don’t think sales counts but I’m putting it here

Pacific purgatory!!!! They’re loud but I like em

Nouns (Dogs is so good holy SHIT)

Slater

Not sure if petite league is small or not but I like them too

Jay som

Aaaaaanf pencil legs ((:

There’s a LOT more but I feel like I listed a CRAP ton so that’s it for noww

enough about taylor swift already. reblog and tag the smallest, least known artist you listen to

[hopeonmyphone]

BTS’ j-hope Announces ‘Hope On The Stage’ 2025 Solo Tour, To Hold Manila Concert [Billboard Philippines]

The highly anticipated tour will be the first time the “MORE” hitmaker will be out on the road performing following the end of his mandatory military service last October 2024.

j-hope is going on tour this year.

On January 10, following months of speculation from fans, it was announced that the BTS member and acclaimed rapper is officially set to go on his very own solo tour this 2025, dubbed ‘Hope On The Stage.’ It will kick-off with three back-to-back shows from February 28 – March 2 (Friday – Sunday) at the prestigious KSPO Dome in Seoul. Following this, the tour will head to several cities across the US and Asia, including Manila.

The Asia leg of j-hope’s tour will kick off in Manila’s SM Mall Of Asia Arena on April 12 and 13. The rapper will then head to Saitama, Singapore, Jakarta, Bangkok, Macau, Taipei, and Osaka.

Tickets for j-hope’s Manila dates have yet to be announced. Watch this space for updates.

Check out the dates for j-hope’s ‘Hope On The Stage’ tour here:

February 20 – March 2: KSPO Dome, Seoul March 13 – 14: Barclays Center, Brooklyn March 17 – 18: Allstate Arena, Chicago March 22 – 23: Palacio De Los Deportes, Mexico City March 26 – 27: Frost Bank Center, San Antonio March 31 – April 1: Oakland Arena, Oakland April 4, 6: BMO Stadium, Los Angeles April 12 – 13: SM Mall Of Asia Arena, Manila April 19 – 20: Saitama Super Arena, Saitama April 26 – 27: Singapore Indoor Stadium, Singapore May 3 – 4: Indonesia Arena, GBK, Jakarta May 10 – 11: Impact Arena, Bangkok May 17 – 18: Galaxy Arena, Macau May 24 – 25: NTSU Arena (Linkou Arena), Taipei May 31 – June 1: Kyocera Dome Osaka, Osaka The highly anticipated tour will be the first time the “MORE” hitmaker will be out on the road performing following the end of his mandatory military service last October 17, 2024 after 18 months of fulfilling his duties. The tour’s title is in reference to j-hope’s six-part documentary Hope on the Street, which premiered last March 28, 2024 on Amazon Prime Video and TVING, and sees the K-pop icon tracing back his roots as a dancer with his former instructor Boogaloo Kin.

The documentary was accompanied by its very own soundtrack HOPE ON THE STREET VOL. 1 – a six-track EP, which sees j-hope team up with a number of different artists, this includes fellow BTS member Jungkook, as well as benny blanco, Nile Rodgers, LE SSERAFIM‘s HUH YUNJIN, Gaeko, and YOON MIRAE. It was released on March 29, 2024, a day after the documentary’s premiere.

Prior to his military enlistment, j-hope marked a major milestone in his solo career by making history as the first-ever Korean artist to headline Lollapalooza last July 2022. His headlining appearance at the major American festival was covered in his first documentary j-hope IN THE BOX, which also recounted his time bringing his debut album Jack In The Box to life.

Source: Billboard Philippines

[manmetaphysical]

Many great luminaries were born on this day 16th December. That includes: Catherine of Aragon, epic composer Ludwig van Beethoven, best loved author Jane Austen, playwright Noel Coward, actress Liv Ullman, artist Wassily Kandinsky, philosopher Georges Santayana, anthropologist,Margaret Mead, illustrator Quentin Blake, musician Benny Anderson of Abba, athlete Donovon Bailey, comedian and ace satirist Bill Hicks, comedy actor Christopher Biggins, and many others.

But it's interesting that not one but two major science fiction writers, Arthur C. Clarke (author of Space Odyssey) and one my favourites Philip K. Dick were born on this day too.

Here's Dick's theory of 'spurious' realities confirming how ahead of his time he was, something about his ability to see around corners put him in a league of his own. We are getting closer than ever to the paranoid police 'thought' crime surveillance reality shown in the film 'Minority Report' (2002)- and that's just one example. 'Man in the High Castle' was prophetic.

Here's an extract from 'The Owl at Midnight' 2019 article I wrote about the very extraordinary Philip K. Dick

"He had been brought up as a Quaker and was open minded in this sense free to question. He looked for the holes punctured in the reality as it is presented to us, as if there was another reality underneath. Then the reality underneath that layer, and so on that it becomes a mind-melt. Religion appears in comedic form ‘God in a spray can’ as if ‘god’ which he called ‘Ubik’ as in ubiquitous, was a human invention turned into a commodity. He writes satirically about the smorgasbord of religions that are dial-up, stir-fried instant wisdom using a credit card which can easily expire. So with Mercury in Sagittarius punching holes in the fixed religious mind-sets came as naturally as breathing to him- all very 9th house stuff. Added to this was a streak of tragedy as Muse asteroid Melpomene, the muse of tragic poetry, is conjunct his Sun and Mercury. The stellium in the 9th has Saturn, Mercury, and the Sun leading up to the MC- so that he would be visibly known for stirring up the deep pot of religious beliefs back to Gnosticism. But a good dose of maverick energy with Uranus in Aries in his first house would achieve that too. This Uranus almost exactly conjunct the Ascendant not only startles but has such a voltage it is as though designed to wake up anyone who came into contact with him. Many reported such an impact either through meeting him or coming into contact with his work. He used drugs – mainly amphetamines- Uranus is in Aries- to keep awake during the writing of his novels which he wrote at night until he had a wife who was bourgeois and wanted him to have a day job so he switched to the day- just like that, like he had his finger on the switch. This is a predominantly Cardinal modality and Fire element ruled chart. There were few who could stop him. According to Sect theory in traditional astrology, the chart is split into day and night. Dick definitely had the masters on his team – the Sun and Saturn both above the horizon and the Sun in a fire sign nodding towards a fiery Aries Ascendant. While Mars is below the horizon and aligned to its nocturnal powers, it is placed in Cancer in the 4th, which is its fall, so it tends to burn only to produce steam, but Cancer is a fertile sign, so they energy was funnelled into his work each of his works being his babies. It also may account for his hypersensitivity. He has Venus and the Moon in the day hemisphere, so they could have been weakened outside of their nocturnal home and placed in the ideological Air sign of Aquarius perhaps lacking in warmth more than usual in the and his mother was indeed neglectful and a hypochondriac.

He wanted to update the concept of divinity- VALIS (1981) stands for Vast-Active-Living-Intelligence-System and he even flooded Gnosticism into the novel, just as a great download of information flooded into his mind distorting all the usual lockholds that glued him into the 3D reality. Even David Bowie appears as the character of Mother Goose or Eric Lampton. Dick said this book was his response to Nicholas Roeg’s ‘The Man Who Fell To Earth’ (1976), and one of the reasons Bowie’s son Duncan now directs Science Fiction films is that Bowie ensured his son read books by Philip K. Dick. In VALIS, Dick called himself Horselover Fat. Phil from the Greek means Lover of horses and Dick from the German means ‘fat’. He and the protagonist are flooded with knowledge from Gnosticism and that disrupts the regular functioning of his life which can never be the same again. This was drawn from what he called his ‘2-3-74’ experience and the chart for that day shows a powerful Grand Trine in Air, where one of the points of the trine is a triple conjunction of the South Node the Moon and Saturn which is also square to Pluto. So whatever it was that downloaded into his body-mind in the early 70s – his Gnostic revelations- confused him with multiple esoteric theories and theurgies, but they pointed to accurate interpretations of the world we are now more aligned with. The experience was not just borderline psychosis but a pure kind of mysticism. There is a free-floating completely unaspected Neptune in the chart that day perhaps acting as a wildcard to flood his mind. He was non-conformist on the one hand – Uranus conjunct the MC in Aries that might have made him also a good astrologer should he have chosen -but he had a Calvinist streak on the other- Saturn in Sagittarius in the 6th House. He was quite stern in his beliefs and therefore possibly more than just split but a splintered personality. He was multi-faceted being a different man to each of his wives – he had five- and this could have been exacerbated by having both Venus and the Moon in the 8th house so more than his fair share of hidden rumbling emotions in the potent mix of issues around sexuality and power. Each partner inherited the story of the previous woman in his life but she encountered a different Philip K. Dick.

He died on the 2nd March 1982 after a stroke- lying between a sofa and a coffee table just as his vision had foretold. Perhaps the drink of the waters of the River Lethe had been diluted as he was somehow able to foresee this? The legend of the River Lethe is where between lives we are supposed to drink in order to return to life having our memories wiped out. Anthony Peake suggests in his book ‘The Man Who Remembered The Future’ (2013) that this phenomenon is anamnesis- a form of remembering what has been forgotten or of a previous existence but that can also be in reverse- the idea being at least one layer of time sits outside the linear construct. His remembering was more powerful than his forgetting and that these time loops had allowed him access across windows in time- to jump forwards and see his own death.

This has monumental implications for the study of astrology where fate and free will are often posed as a false dichotomy. Astrologers seek to see outside of time and make useful predictions but they often fall short and settle for understanding cycles of time. Yet the mysterious workings of astrology point to an intricate web of connectivity between the personal unfolding of life and the impersonal energies that seem to operate like a gigantic clock. Dick was at home in this understanding of a purely non-linear world. He was philosophical and could tolerate multiple ambiguities. There were numerous people at Dick’s funeral as he had that rare ability to make acquaintances feel they were his close friends. These were all bank tellers, supermarket cashiers and street dwellers- very Jupiter in the 11th– his range was wide and Jupiter is well known as a multi-faceted polymorphous creature getting anywhere and everywhere. One thing I note in his work is comedic streak. He could perhaps without meaning to be hilariously funny, even just by piling up the contradictions for the bemused characters in his stories.

This last quote is an example of that twisted humour ” Reality is that which, when you stop believing in it, doesn’t go away.”

photo credit: Arthur Knight

[ulkaralakbarova]

A somewhat daffy book editor on a rail trip from Los Angeles to Chicago thinks that he sees a murdered man thrown from the train. When he can find no one who will believe him, he starts doing some investigating of his own. But all that accomplishes is to get the killer after him. Credits: TheMovieDb. Film Cast: George Caldwell: Gene Wilder Hildegard ‘Hilly’ Burns: Jill Clayburgh Grover Muldoon: Richard Pryor Roger Devereau: Patrick McGoohan Bob Sweet: Ned Beatty Sheriff Chauncey: Clifton James Mr. Edgar Whiney: Ray Walston Professor Schreiner & Johnson: Stefan Gierasch Chief: Len Birman Plain Jane: Valerie Curtin Rita Babtree: Lucille Benson Ralston: Scatman Crothers Reace: Richard Kiel Jerry Jarvis: Fred Willard Burt: Delos V. Smith Jr. Blue-Haired Lady: Mathilda Calnan Mexican Mama-San: Margarita García Conventioneer: Henry Beckman Conventioneer: Harvey Atkin Porter: Lloyd White Benny: Ed McNamara Night Watchman: Raymond Guth Engineer #2: John Daheim Fat Man #1: Jack O’Leary Fat Man #2: Lee McLaughlin Red Cap: Bill Henderson Cab Driver: Tom Erhart Moose: Gordon Hurst Waiter (uncredited): J.A. Preston Shoeshiner: Nick Stewart Conventioneer: Steve Weston Film Crew: Casting: Lynn Stalmaster Original Music Composer: Henry Mancini Executive Producer: Martin Ransohoff Writer: Colin Higgins Set Decoration: Marvin March Hairstylist: Joan Phillips Director of Photography: David M. Walsh Editor: David Bretherton Makeup Artist: William Tuttle Stunts: Alan Oliney Producer: Edward K. Milkis Producer: Thomas L. Miller Executive Producer: Frank Yablans Stunt Double: Jeannie Epper Stunts: John Daheim Stunts: Nick Dimitri Stunts: Bob Herron Director: Arthur Hiller Production Design: Alfred Sweeney Stunt Coordinator: Mickey Gilbert Production Manager: Peter V. Herald Production Manager: Jack B. Bernstein Stunts: Janet Brady Sound: Harold M. Etherington Movie Reviews: Wuchak: **_Drama, romance, crime, mystery, comedy, adventure, suspense and action on a train_** A book editor traveling from Los Angeles to Chicago by rail (Gene Wilder) supposedly witnesses a crime while partying with a secretary (Jill Clayburgh). He suddenly finds himself embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy. Richard Pryor plays a helpful thief, Ned Beatty a passenger, Patrick McGoohan a smooth art expert, Richard Kiel a heavy and Len Birman a cop. “Silver Streak” (1976) meshes Hitchcockian murder thriller with the amusing antics of Wilder and Pryor for an entertaining train flick. As my title blurb states, it expertly mixes genres into a fun and compelling rail ride. If you like train flicks like “Runaway Train” (1985), “Transiberian” (2008), “Train” (2008), “Night Train” (2009), “Beyond the Door III” (1989), “The Cassandra Crossing” (1976), “Breakheart Pass” (1975) and “Horror Express” (1972) you’ll also enjoy this one. It’s as good or better than most of ’em. It just includes amusement along with the life-or-death thrills à la the 80’s Indiana Jones adventures. The film runs 1 hour, 54 minutes, and was shot in SoCal, including Century City (studio), Union Station in Los Angeles, South Pasadena (New Mexico train stop), the Mojave Desert (the ranch with the plane) and Brea (the redneck sheriff’s office), as well as Alberta (the prairie scenes), Locust Hill in Ontario, Union Station in Toronto and Northwestern Station in Chicago. GRADE: A-/B+

[help-lana]

"I sincerely thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support and standing with us during these difficult times. Your presence gives us the strength to keep going. I kindly ask you to share this post and help spread it so it can reach as many people as possible,

@hylionyx @bartholomew-junior @asexualfromhell

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I am Lana, a Palestinian residing in Gaza. It is with deep sorrow that I reach out to you today, seeking assistance to relocate my family from Gaza to Egypt. Allow me to briefly share my family's story: During the war, we were compelled to move from the north to the south, experiencing displacement and enduring over seven evacuations. Our current living conditions are incredibly challenging. The situation in Gaza is dire, intolerable, and our lives are in grave danger.

I hope to be on your list or pin the post. Thank you for your humanity.

Relly Need Your Help To Evacuate Them To A Safe Plece As Soon As Possible Outside Gaza

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[stellan-bluesman-viking]

Rest & Bar "MÖLLAN" Proudly Present's Sun 17 Dec - 2023 - FU_K CHRISTMAS !!! A Soul-Funk & R'N'B Christmas Party @ 3 Advent Event !!! https://fb.me/e/xwha4Oq3B with - VIKING's - L.L.B.B. = Lovely Little Big Band !!! Orchestra Line Up 2U4 The Night Is: Feat: Host, Chapel Master & Vocal = Stellan "Iry" Viking... Mrs, Brown aka or alias = Anna Lindahl Ståleker: Lead Vocal. Per-Oscar Nilsson: Lead Guitar. Oskar Ek: Lead Guitar. Karl Martin Almqvist: Tenor Saxophone. Fredrik Davidsson: Trumpet. Ola Åkerman: Trombone. Maciej Szymczynski: Piano & Key's. Johnny "Big Time" Åman: Electric Bass. Nelson Galott Rivera: Percussion. Olle Dernevik: Drums. Samuel "Tin Man" Albertsson: Drums. + Guest Artist's All Night Long !!! Benny Pedersen: Pedal Steel Guitar. Viggo Bjerhagen: Blues Guitar. https://www.facebook.com/events/3213141965657845 @ The Stage 20.30-23.00 (2-Set) Show !!! Be In Time / It's Gonna Be Full Packed !!! _____________________________________________ FU*K CHRISTMAS & VIKING's L.L.B.B. (Lovely Little Big Band) @ Möllan / Sadde’s Place -2023-12-17- 001 https://youtu.be/caFauQulNxg?si=WvzQSUrnhWzUGFle _____________________________________________ FU*K CHRISTMAS & VIKING's L.L.B.B. (Lovely Little Big Band) @ Möllan / Sadde’s Place -2023-12-17- 002 https://youtu.be/QUhdMIvVl38?si=vDpydMACxyL2ww0a _____________________________________________ Arr: * Sadetti Dagli, Rosa Vera Gildag, Möllan Crew & WorldwidewelcomE *