#at any rate here is a Jean for Madeline to get to know | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

miss-madeline-beiste · 4 years ago

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Moving Forward | 9/20/20

Tagging: @miss-madeline-beiste & @faithhudson Location: Madeline’s suite Date: Sunday, September 20th, 2020 Summary: A calming scene followed by a conversation about wants, needs, and the future.

Fae's stomach churned a little as she approached Madeline's door, but that was a common thing since she'd quit drinking. That made it impossible to know whether it was nerves, a bad lunch or the incredible urge to drink something, anything, that would make her feel good. Truthfully she was excited for the night - to kneel for a while, something to occupy her mouth and her mind, and just let herself try to find some kind of peace. The talk that would follow...well, that was more disconcerting. Fae wasn't sure just how intense it would be, what they were both willing to say and not say, and what it would all mean in the end. But it was a talk that she wanted to have, and one she hoped Madeline was as invested in as she was. The door had been left unlocked for her, so rather than kneel she knocked and quietly let herself in. "Good evening, Miss."

Madeline turned toward the door when she heard it open, and she smiled at the sight of Fae letting herself in. She liked that a lot, for reasons she didn't want to allow herself to think too much about. She was both excited and nervous about the conversation they were planning on having, but she didn't want to get too far ahead of herself. The gentle scene while they watched some TV would be a good introduction to the evening. "Hi, Fae," she said brightly. "Go ahead and put your bag down in the bedroom--you can take the guest room if you'd like, or you can join me if you prefer. Take your shoes off and get comfortable, and then join me back out here when you're ready, okay?"

Fae's memory was getting better, at least incrementally, but she still tried to pay careful attention to instructions when they were given. Her mouth moved slightly as she repeated them to herself, and once they were firmly in her head she smiled. "I'll join you if you don't mind, Miss. I'll be right back." Fae turned the full force of her grin on Madeline before heading into the master bedroom. Her bag was placed gently down in the corner and she set her shoes down as well, considering for a moment before unzipping her bag and swapping her jeans for a pair of sweats. If she was going to be kneeling, jeans didn't seem like the best idea. That done, she returned to the living room. "All set, Miss."

"Good girl," Madeline said, noting with a smile to herself that Fae had swapped out her jeans for something a bit more comfortable. She was wearing a sundress with a cardigan herself, taking advantage of some of the last few warm days of the year before fall truly started. She grabbed a pillow from the other end of the couch and set it on the floor by her feet. "Come kneel in front of me, Fae," she told her, sitting up straight as she waited for the Switch to join her.

Those two words had begun to feel like a compliment of the highest order, and Fae knew that it spoke volumes about her status as a Switch and what it was that she really wanted. Taking a moment to appreciate the sight of Madeline in a nice dress, Fae couldn't help but smile at the way she set down a pillow to make kneeling easier on Fae's knees. She didn't know a lot of Dominants, but the difference in attitude between them could be startling. "Yes, Miss Madeline," she agreed, moving into position and settling on the pillow. "I hope you've had a nice day so far?"

Madeline automatically reached out and began to stroke her fingers through Fae's hair once she was down on her knees in front of her. God, would having this beautiful woman submit to her ever get old? She smiled and gave her a nod. "I have," she said. "The best part has been texting you, though. How are you feeling?"

Fingers in her hair was a sensation that Fae loved more than just about anything, and she tilted her head into the touch to enjoy it a little bit more. "You're very sweet to me," she blushed. "Today's not a bad day. I'm shaky, but it's not so bad that I can't do up buttons and stuff, so I call it a win. I'm craving, for sure, but I'm not thinking about it every second."

Madeline listened carefully to Fae's response, glad that she had taken the question seriously rather than brushing it off as a simple greeting. "Well, let's get a bit of a distraction started so you can hopefully relax some, okay? Now, I want to try out that gag that you put in that basket for the auction tonight." She leaned forward and grabbed it from the coffee table and held it out for Fae to see. "Remind me what your safe gestures are?"

"That sounds nice, Miss." Fae was looking forward to trying out the gag, and the distraction that it would provide her. "I'm ready for it. I think this is going to be a good experience." She studied the gag for a moment, nodding her agreement. 'One finger on the left hand for a break, a peace sign if I need to immediately stop what we're doing." She held up her index and then added her middle as well, demonstrating both of the gestures to be sure she was being clear.

Madeline nodded as Fae showed off her safe gestures, and she repeated them herself. "Good girl," she said, "thank you. If you don't have any questions, I'd like you to go ahead and open up for me so I can get this situated on you."

Fae smiled easily. "You're welcome, Miss. And no questions, I'm good." Settling her shaky hands at her sides, she tilted her head back a little and opened her mouth to accept the gag. She was ready, and prepared for what would come next.

Once she was sure Fae was ready, Madeline brushed her hand down through Fae's hair one more time before placing the gag in her mouth. The front of the piece stretched out widely over her cheeks, and Madeline made sure it didn't cut in too harshly as she strapped the gag in behind Fae's head. She gently pulled a few strands of hair out from underneath the strap where it looked like it was pulling, and then she sat back to look at the sub in front of her. "How's that feel?" she asked. "Thumbs up if it's okay, one finger if it's not."

The ball on the inside of the panel gave Fae something to set behind her teeth, allowing the full panel to rest against her face. It was bigger than she'd expected, covering from just under her nose down to her chin and a good amount of her cheeks as well, but it wasn't uncomfortable - just new. Madeline's care and attention in making sure her hair wasn't trapped was good, and she nearly smiled before remembering it wouldn't look like anything. She took a deep breath through her nose, making sure she was set, and gave Madeline a firm thumbs up.

Madeline felt her heart rate slow as she immediately relaxed at the sight of the thumbs up. Gags were a new concept to her, and knowing Fae felt okay so far made a big difference. "Good girl," she praised, petting her hand across the top of the Switch's head again. "Go ahead and turn to the side for me so that you can rest your head on my lap and see the TV screen. Once you're settled, I'll put something on for us."

Fae leaned into the touch, smiling behind the panel even though she knew Madeline wouldn't know it. Turning her body on the pillow, she settled onto her knees again once she was in position and laid her head on the Dominant's lap. Once she was set she offered another thumbs up, giving Madeline the go ahead to put something on for them.

Madeline appreciated the second thumbs up. They hadn't discussed a safe gesture to mean green, go ahead, but they were clearly on the same page here and that made her feel a lot more comfortable in her Dominance. She rested a hand on the Fae's upper back while she flipped through Netflix until she found The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. "I think you'll like this, Fae," she said as she hit play.

Fae hummed softly against the leather panel, wanting to acknowledge Madeline's words and the touch of a hand to her back without having to signal. She felt...calm. As the show began, she let her focus leave the way that she shook, the way that she craved something to drink, all of it. The only sensations that were important were the feel of leather against her face, the soft ball between her teeth, and the hand on her back. It felt a little liked what meditation was probably supposed to feel like.

Madeline let Netflix autoplay through into the second episode after the first one ended. They were short enough that she wasn't concerned about it being too much for Fae, and she hoped that the other woman was enjoying the show as much as she was. She'd seen it before, of course, but it was still just as funny the second time. As they watched, she focused half of her attention on Fae's body, both looking out for any signs that she was uncomfortable and taking the opportunity to rub her back, neck, and head gently. It was a simple gesture, but one that reminded them both that they were there together. When the credits came up on the second episode, she hit the pause button before it went into a third one. "All right, Fae," she said gently. "Head up. You've been such a good girl for me."

The show was as funny as Madeline had made it sound, and Fae made occasional chortling noises that were muffled by the gag in place of laughter. For the most part though it was like a wave, washing over her as she tried not to focus too hard on any one thing. The gentle motions of hands against her drew out more tension from her slight frame, and gave her an anchor to ensure that she didn't drift away entirely. The end of the second episode had escaped her, but when Madeline spoke up she moved to comply, lifting her head but not turning her body - she'd only been ordered to do the first part.

Madeline smiled down at Fae and reached behind her to undo the buckle of the gag. "Easy," she said as she carefully pulled the gag away from Fae's face and mouth. Once it was out, she set it aside quickly, making a mental note to clean it and her end table later. She went back to petting Fae's hair, smoothing it out in particular where the strap had been. "You've been such a good girl for me," she repeated, unintentionally. "I'd like you to be where you're most comfortable right now, either on your knees or up here next to me. Your jaw's probably going to be a bit sore for a while now."

Ducking her head a little to allow easier access to the buckle, Fae let out a soft groan as she opened her mouth to let the ball pass between her teeth. She hadn't felt it while she was kneeling there, but with the gag removed she could definitely feel the strain that had been involved. Madeline's repeated praise made her flush with pleasure, and the attention to her hair was never going to get old. There was still a slightly dazed feeling in her mind, like she wasn't quite awake or asleep, and a contented sigh escaped her lips. "Thank you, Miss," she murmured. "I'll stay kneeling. May I put my head back on your lap?"

Madeline had been sure Fae would choose to join her on the couch, so she was very glad she’d given her the option to stay kneeling. “In just a minute,” she replied. She grabbed a bottle of water from the coffee table—a reusable one with a built-in straw—and held it in front of Fae’s mouth. “Have a few sips of water for me first, and then you can put your head down and tell me how you’re feeling.”

Fae sipped from the water, surprised to find herself more thirsty than she'd expected. If she'd been thinking more clearly it probably could have been blamed on the gag, but that was a level of clarity she was missing just then. "Thank you, Miss," she nodded, waiting for Madeline to set the water down before laying her head in the Domme's lap once again. "Floaty," she began with a murmur, looking for the right words to explain her mental state. "Just a little bit disconnected. Not in a bad way, but like..." Fae trailed off, a bit frustrated that the words wouldn't come. "Like things aren't bothering me. If that makes any sense."

“That makes perfect sense,” Madeline said, her hand seeming to land back on Fae’s head of its own accord. Before she even realized she was doing it, she was running her fingers down through the other woman’s hair once more. “Let me know if you start to feel more grounded, or if the floating starts to feel not so good. Otherwise, we can just sit here and relax a bit, hm?”

Letting her eyes flutter shut, Fae let out a soft noise of approval as Madeline's fingers worked in her hair once again. It was a gesture that felt good, and right, and helped her stay in the submissive mindset that the kneeling and gag had helped create. Fortunately she understood Fae's point, because she wasn't sure she could have made it make more sense, and Fae nodded against her lap. "That sounds nice, Miss, thank you."

"You're welcome, Fae," Madeline said encouragingly, still running her fingers through her tresses. It felt good to just sit here with Fae at her feet and her head on her lap. It felt right. She didn't know what that meant for the conversation they were going to have once Fae felt more herself again, but she hoped it was a good sign, at the very least.

Fae didn't know how long they sat like that. It was a passage of time that went almost completely unnoticed, as she let herself fly free in her head for just a little while. Only when she began to feel the ache in her knees and her jaw did she realize that she'd come down from her high. "May I join you on the couch now, Miss?" she asked softly.

Madeline let her hand run through Fae's hair one last time after she heard the question, but then she pulled her hand back to give the other woman some space. "Yes, you may, Fae," she said, shifting to get more comfortable once Fae's head was off her lap. She grabbed the water bottle again and held it out for her to take. "A few more sips of water, please."

Fae nodded. "Thank you, Miss." She sipped from the water, sighing contentedly as she put it back. Her knees popped a little as she stood, but fortunately she could go straight from there to the couch, resting alongside Madeline with a smile. "That was a good show. Just as funny as you said it'd be."

Madeline lifted her arm up to drape it over Fae's shoulder as she settled in next to her. "I'm glad you enjoyed it," she said. "It's been ages since I watched it the first time. We can watch more anytime you want."

Snuggling into Madeline's side, Fae smiled. "We'll make a regular thing of it. Maybe when I get back from meetings. Did I show you my fancy coin?" It was just a token for 24 hours of sobriety, but she wanted to show it off anyway.

"When you get back from your meetings sounds perfect," Madeline agreed. "I think that's a perfect time for something light and funny." She turned to look at Fae's face and shook her head. "You did not. Do you have it here with you?"

"Definitely. Those things get pretty heavy, so light and funny would be a nice change." Her face lit up a little. "I do! Let me go grab it for you." Fae scooted into the bedroom and dug through her things, emerging with the coin and a triumphant smile. She handed it to Madeline as she took a seat again, snuggling close. "Twenty four hours sober."

The proud look on Fae's face when she handed over the coin just about did Madeline in. She felt tears spring to her eyes, and she was glad that Fae sat down again with her so quickly. "That's such a huge deal, Fae," she said, her voice wavering just a little from the surge of emotion inside her. She examined the coin, front and back, and then pressed a kiss to the top of Fae's head. "I'm so proud of you," she said as she handed the coin back over.

Madeline's shaky voice made her wonder if she'd done something to upset the Dominant, but the kiss a moment later seemed to put paid to that idea. "Thank you, Miss," her cheeks reddened a little. "I know it's only twenty four hours but it's a start, right? If I can go that long without messing up then maybe I can get the next coin too."

"What's the next one?" Madeline asked, having recovered her poise with Fae back in her arms again. "And I know you can do it, however long it is. It's like Kimmy said--you can do anything for ten minutes. You can do anything for twenty-four hours, too, it seems!"

"I think the next one is thirty days," Fae frowned. "Which is a lot harder than the first one, so that seems unfair somehow. But I think I'll try that, and focus on the ten minutes. Trying to do a month in 24 hour chunks would be too much."

"Ten minutes it is, then," Madeline said, already making a mental note to create a special chip for 1 week. Fae deserved more positive reinforcement than having to wait almost an entire month. In the meantime, she grabbed the water bottle and handed it over again. "A little more water," she said gently. "How are you feeling? Would you like a blanket?"

Fae accepted the water bottle, draining the last of it in a few big gulps. The gag had definitely left her a bit more dehydrated than she expected, but that was good to know for the next time. "Actually I'd love a blanket, Miss. I don't know why I'm a bit cold, but maybe from staying in one position for so long..."

Madeline guided Fae to sit upright before getting up to grab a soft, fuzzy, sherpa throw blanket from a basket across the room. She brought it back and draped it across Fae's body, and she grabbed the empty bottle of water. "I'll be right back, Fae, okay?" she said before going to refill the bottle. She brought one back for herself as well, and before long, she was settled back in next to her. "Drink some more water if or when you feel like it," she told her. "Are you feeling any better now? It's not uncommon for a sub to need to cozy up after a scene."

"Mmm," Fae hummed as the blanket was laid over her. She hadn't realized just how much she needed it, and she snuggled into it as completely as possible. "I'll be here, Miss," she promised, not even making a joke. "Much better, Miss, thank you. I think the extra time on my knees with my head on you went a long way to making it better. It wasn't even bad, really, I just felt kind of spaced out."

"You're adorable, Fae," Madeline said before she could stop herself. She smiled at her before lifting the blanket to shift her legs beneath it, too, making sure not to take enough away from Fae that she'd get exposed to the cool air around them on her other side. "Are you feeling more like yourself now, then?"

Fae chuckled. "There aren't many people who've ever called me that, but I'm happy that you're one of them." She contentedly shared her blanket, nodding at the question. "Much more, Miss. For good or bad, I'm back in my head now. If we wanted to do that again sometime, though, it was nice to be out of it for a while."

"Well, anyone who isn't saying it out loud is certainly thinking it," Madeline teased. "But any time you want to get out of your head like that, I want you to speak up and let me know--though I know I don't have to worry about you speaking up for yourself. That's one of the things I really appreciate about you, Fae."

Fae snorted. "I think you confuse your high opinion of me with other people's, Miss, but I'm glad you think so." She nodded, a smile lighting her features again at the compliment. "I don't know any other way to be, I don't think. If I don't speak for myself, nobody else is going to."

Madeline smiled to herself. Perhaps Fae wasn't wrong about Madeline thinking everyone else had the same opinion of the other woman as she did herself, but that was neither here nor there. She was just glad to make her smile. "One day, your Dominant will speak up for you, too," she pointed out, surprising herself at how smooth this transition might end up being after all.

"That's true," Fae conceded. "That is part of the job, or at least that's what they tell me in Switch 101." She'd still never really experienced the urge to play on that side of her mark. It could be done, she'd done it with DJ and Fauna, but it didn't feel as right. As natural. Being on her knees for Madeline or Evan had felt a million times more like the person she was meant to be.

Madeline hummed in agreement. "The right Dominant for you will make sure you're taken care of, all the time," she said. "That doesn't mean that they'll walk all over you. It just means that they'll support you and protect you while you give the same back to them through your submission."

Fae stayed silent, trying to make sure that Madeline had the time and space to talk without interruption. It wasn't easy for someone like her, but she made the effort. "And do you think I can do that? Be the kind of submissive that someone deserves?"

Fae's question made Madeline frown and pull the Switch closer in against her side. "I know you can do that, Fae," she said firmly. "Your submission... it's a wonderful gift, every time you choose to let me experience it. I'm grateful every time that you do."

Fae cuddled up a little closer in response. Madeline had a ton of faith in her, more than she felt like she really deserved, and it was overwhelming sometimes - in the best of ways. "I'm glad to hear you say that, Miss. Because I'm always happy to give it to you. You make it feel like it's special to you."

"That's because it is special to me," Madeline responded. "I'm not a Domme who enjoys ordering around reluctant submissives. I expect titles and basic respect, of course, but I don't see the enjoyment in making someone submit to me who doesn't want to. I really appreciate that you want to give yourself over to me in scenes. I know it's not something that comes easy to you, Fae."

"It's not," Fae shook her head. "But it's made easier with people who I know respect me. And people who know all of me. It's easy to know someone's good parts and like them. You've seen my shitty parts. And you like me - but more than that, you treat me with respect. That's the thing that blows me away about you. And you're a good Domme, Miss. In my humble opinion, at least."

Madeline found herself blushing at all of Fae's compliments. "Thank you, Fae," she said. "You have no idea how much it means to me to hear you say that. I know how hard you've been working to try to improve yourself, and you've been doing such a good job. You even got your 24-hour coin!" She grinned brightly at that. "I just want to do my best to treat you just as well as you deserve."

"You're welcome, Miss," Fae smiled. "I'm only speaking the truth, that's all." She glanced at her coin, trying to take in all that it represented. "It's a start," she nodded. "And I hope you know that you always have. Always." Madeline never made her feel less than, never made her feel like the hopeless drunk she often considered herself. She'd always taken Fae's wants and needs into consideration, and never talked down to her.

"It's a start," Madeline agreed. "And hey, look. You've gone ten minutes a few times now since you arrived here. It's already dark out." She nodded toward the nearest window to the outside. She licked her lips and stared out into the branches of the trees outside her window for a short while before continuing. "So... Fae. What have you figured out it is that you're looking for in your Dominant in the future?"

Fae looked out the window, blinking. Time had actually gone by pretty quickly, it felt like, and she hadn't had to struggle too hard. "I guess I have at that, Miss." She was content to stay silent as long as Madeline wanted, and only perked up again when she asked a question. "It's a tough question, Miss, but I think it's supposed to be. I don't...the actual D/s side of things isn't as crucial to me, if that makes sense. I want someone who's going to treat me with respect, like a person. Who knows about all my shit, and isn't bothered. And who I can count on to keep me safe no matter what we're doing. Those are sort of my three needs."

Madeline focused in on Fae's words as she spoke. This was an important conversation for both of them, and she wanted to make sure she heard everything Fae was saying--and everything she might not be saying, too. "I would say that all three of those are very good qualities to have in a Dominant for most submissives," she pointed out. "Though, obviously, not every Dominant is going to be able to meet all of those needs. How do you feel about living a D/s lifestyle, though? Being a submissive all the time, in public and in private?"

Fae nodded. She knew there weren't going to be a lot of "right" Dominants for her, because she was a lot to put up with and doing so required a certain level of patience that not everyone possessed. But they were, she thought, the important ones. "I don't have practice living the life," she admitted. "But here's the thing. I don't want to be somebody's toy. I don't want to walk around on a leash, stuff like that. Because I can't do that. What I can do is call someone by a title, do what they tell me most of the time, and do my best to be good company."

Madeline frowned to herself, not sure she was understanding Fae properly--and not liking what she was hearing if she was. "It sounds to me like you're not really interested in much submission at all, Fae," she said, trying to keep her voice light and curious. "Would you say that's true? That you're only looking to submit to the extent that it makes your partner happy?"

Fae shook her head. "No, I'm sorry, that's...that's not what I was trying to say. I meant, like...you see people walking submissives on campus on a leash, and it just looks like they're property. I don't want to be property - I want to be a submissive person. The submission part I like, but I need practice at it. Like...what we did here tonight, you and me, with me kneeling and gagged? I liked that. The scenes we've done? I liked those. I will do stuff like that anytime as long as the person I'm with is a person who treats me like a person. It's like when we go to town and you order me to leave the bar. I've never fought you on that, and that's part of what submitting means to me. Letting you take control." She frowned. "Am I making any sense at all, or should I start over?"

Madeline's heartrate started to slow a bit as Fae responded. The way she described it this time helped, and she nodded a bit. "I think that does make sense," she told her. "So what I'm getting--and tell me if I'm wrong--is that there are forms of submission that you do like and enjoy, but it has to be with a Dominant who makes you feel respected and protected? Do you think you would enjoy any sort of pet play as a scene, or does that seem to be too property-like to you?"

Fae was glad to hear that she'd found a way to explain herself, because it wasn't always easy when it came to this kind of thing. "Exactly," she nodded agreement. "It's the respect that lets me put myself in another person's control." Without that there was no trust, and without trust she couldn't give herself over. "No, I think pet play could be fun. I haven't taken any classes for it or anything but I think wearing some cute ears and a tail would be a good time."

"I've done a bit of pet play, and it can be a lot of fun," Madeline said. "Maybe sometime soon we can try it out together, hm?" She reached up to run her fingers down Fae's hair once more, and she tucked a strand behind her ear. "So that's one thing that's an absolute no for your future claim--being treated like property. Are there any other things you definitely don't want in your future claim, Fae?"

"I'd like that," Fae smiled, soft noises of contentment on her lips as Madeline played with her hair. That was such a good feeling. "Other things I definitely don't want...to be...what's the word? Restricted? In what I do. Like, I'd still like to be able to work outside the house and go out for dinner with friends if that was something I wanted to do and I'd earned it. I'd follow whatever rules I had, of course, and only do those things with permission, but I wouldn't want claimed life to be like a prison. And..." she hesitated a little. "I know how dumb this sounds coming from someone who warred against my Mom and Stepdad's relationship for so long, but I wouldn't want a claim without love in it."

"I wouldn't either," Madeline replied. Her own parents' claim was a good example of a claim full of love--for one another and for their children. She knew her mother had been part of a claim that may have had love in it at one point but that was based on fear, and she never wanted that for herself or for Fae. "Love is an important part of a claim for me," she said. "And I can't imagine restricting a submissive that I love, other than as a punishment or for their own good--which is something that I would discuss with them and we would hopefully come to an agreement on."

Fae 's smile was growing increasingly bright as they talked. Madeline had always done a good job of understanding the things that she said, as well as the things that she didn't, and helping her realize when a word or concept had eluded her. "I'd say we're really on the same page there," she nodded, wracking her brain for anything else that might be worth mentioning in her wants and needs. "I think those are the important ones for me, Miss. That, and to be claimed by someone who's willing to come to meetings and go on this journey with me."

Madeline felt like a weight had been lifted from her chest. We're really on the same page there. "Everything you said is very reasonable," she told her. "And very realistic, too. You deserve a claim partner who is going to do all of those things for you and more." She paused for a moment, reaching for her water bottle to sip from it and buy herself a moment of time. "What about... physically, Fae? What do you need physically with your Dominant?"

There was a lot of room in a conversation like this for things to go sideways, but to Fae's pleasure they hadn't had that happen just yet. The longer they talked, in fact, that better it seemed to be going. "And you deserve someone who can be the submissive you deserve, Miss. Who can give you the things that you want." The question wasn't one she'd expected, although she realized she should have. "If you mean sex, Miss, here's the thing. I've had lots of sex. For lots of reasons. So that people would buy me drinks, or give me a place to stay. I've had it because I like it. And sometimes I've had it because I had a drink or two in me and wanted to feel something." She sipped her own water, clearing her throat. "So I don't have requirements. If I'm with someone who likes sex as much as I do, cool. If I'm with someone who isn't, I'm more than capable of taking care of those needs myself."

"Thank you, Fae." Madeline could never bring herself to speak about sex as bluntly as many of her classmates seemed to do. She didn't consider herself a prude, and she was quite happy for everyone who had a nice, healthy sex life. That just... wasn't her. She'd known coming into the institute that it would likely cause her some issues when it came time to find herself some submissives, but she'd always remained optimistic that there would be other people out there like her, ones who didn't need or even want sex with their partners. "What about no sex at all?" she asked, her uncertainty coming out in the tone of her voice. "Would you be comfortable doing that entirely on your own or with someone who wasn't your Dominant?"

Fae had assumed for some time that sex might not be something Madeline was into, for whatever reason. She didn't need to know what that reason was, nor did she need that to change. She wanted to give the question an honest and thoughtful answer, and so she paused for a moment to consider it. Would a relationship without sex bother her? Finally she nodded, keeping her eyes fixed on Madeline. "I would. Be comfortable, that is. As long as my Dominant could allow it happen with others without it causing strife in the claim. Because if it was going to cause jealousy, then it's something I could handle on my own. I'm good with toys."

Madeline gave Fae a little nod of encouragement, but that was the most she was able to do. How did other people talk so openly about sex? She felt completely comfortable with Fae, and she would always be honest with her, but this topic of conversation was something she was fairly sure she'd never be capable of having without her stomach trying to tie itself up in knots. "That's... relieving to hear, Fae," she said. "I don't... For some reason, I don't find sex enjoyable like other people do. It's-- I don't know. It's not something that sounds pleasurable to me. You should know that up front."

She wasn't normally the sort of comforting person who would be good in this sort of conversation. But Madeline had opened up and told her something deeply personal, and Fae planned to treat it with the respect that it was due. "To be a hundred percent honest, Miss Madeline, I'd sort of figured," Fae's smile was gentle and encouraging. "This is the longest I've ever known anyone who didn't ask for, or make moves toward sex, so I kind of figured it wasn't something you wanted. You've been very honest with me, and I will be honest with you too. I don't need you to explain it, or give me a reason. I'm not going to assume that you don't find me attractive, or think that you're frigid or some stupid thing like that. It's a part of you, like your hair or your eyes, and I wouldn't ask you to change any of those things." Fae licked her lips. "If we went forward together, then all I'd need from you is a promise that I could still get kisses on a regular basis. Nothing more than that."

Madeline blushed--honest to god blushed--at Fae's comment. She had known in the back of her head that it probably wasn't going to be that big of a surprise that she wasn't into sex. Most people here seemed to fuck like rabbits, and someone not participating in sex like that would stand out like a sore thumb. "I don't know why I don't like it," she said before clearing her throat. "It just... isn't something I like. I don't understand it. I wish I did. Kisses, though... that I can definitely do." She felt a little more relaxed now, and she pressed a soft kiss to Fae's cheek.

Madeline's blush was perhaps the most adorable thing that Fae had ever seen, and it took a lot not to comment on it - but she didn't want to seem as if she was making fun. "And that's fine. You don't need to know, Miss. I don't know why I don't like anchovies, or left turns, I just don't. You don't need to explain it. You just need to tell me that's how it is." The kiss made her smile. "Then that'd be just fine by me."

"Thank you, Fae," Madeline said, though she wasn't sure she was able to get enough emotion into her voice to show her just how much the acceptance meant to her. She pulled her close, resting Fae's head on her shoulder and her head on top of Fae's. "How do you feel about having another sub around?" she asked after a few moments of simply enjoying the other's existence.

"Of course, Miss. You're so welcome." She leaned against the Domme, taking those quiet moments to contemplate everything that could potentially lay ahead of them. They hadn't actually said the words yet, but she was fairly certain they were agreeing to pursue a future together. There was a part of her - a big part - that was sure she didn't deserve that, but Madeline had told her over and over that she thought otherwise. And while Fae was aware that her path wouldn't be smooth, perhaps it would be easier together. "A double claim, you mean?" she gave that a moment's thought. "I think it would be selfish of me to say I have to be the only one you care for. You've got a big heart, and I think there's lots of room in it for two. I'm not going to pretend I'd be great at sharing you, at least right away, but I'd learn."

The way Fae slipped from a hypothetical future claim into speaking specifically about belonging to Madeline made her heart flutter. She'd done her best to keep the conversation focused on a generic Dominant and a generic claim, though she knew she'd spoken a bit about herself recently. Yet hearing Fae speak so clearly about being Madeline's sub was an absolutely wonderful feeling. "I've always pictured myself with two submissives," she explained. "I know that's not for everyone, though. And I wouldn't want you to agree to a double claim with me or with anyone else just because you don't want to be selfish. That's one thing you absolutely should be selfish about, if you want it to be just you and your Dominant, Fae. I don't want you compromising on that. It's not fair to you, me, or the other sub."

Fae nodded, wanting Madeline to know that she was listening. "I never pictured a future until pretty recently, Miss. I always figured at best I'd join the 27 club and at worst I'd make it to thirty and go where all the unwanted go." She nestled further into Madeline's shoulder. "So I've never really considered whether I'd be in a double claim. How that would make me feel. And truthfully, I still don't know. Here's what I do know: I would be happy to try. If it turned out that I couldn't live like that, I would be honest. But the only way I'm going to know anything is to try it. I won't turn my nose up at anything without at least making an effort."

Madeline was surprised to find herself petting Fae's hair again without noticing that she'd started to do so. "You're destined for so much more than either of those options," she said firmly. She would see to that. There was no way she'd let any of that happen to her, no matter what happened between them. "I think... it sounds like you'd like to try this. Us. And seeing where we go from here."

When Madeline began to stroke her hair once more, Fae let out a contented sound. She didn't know why it felt so good, but she wasn't interested in examining it either - it felt good, and that was all that mattered. "I'm glad that you think so, Miss." The words from Madeline's mouth weren't unexpected, but they had power and weight and Fae had to pull away, just a little, to make sure they were looking eye to eye as they were spoken and responded to. "I would," Fae agreed. "I know there aren't any guarantees, but I think this could be something. As long as it's what you want to, Miss Madeline, and you don't feel pressured in any way."

Madeline was almost overwhelmed with emotion as she looked back into Fae's eyes and gave her a bit of a nod. "I don't feel pressured," she told her. "I hope you don't, either, Fae. I... quite enjoy taking care of you, and the moments I've been happiest the past few months have been the ones when you're entrusting yourself to my care. I don't know if you understand just how precious those moments are to me." She smiled softly. "I think that this could be something, too."

"I don't," Fae promised. This was a point in her life that she'd never imagined reaching. She hadn't lied or exaggerated when she'd said that she fully expected to be dead or a slave by thirty, and imagining the sort of feelings that were surging through her now would have been impossible even a year ago. "Not at all." She took a breath to try and ground herself, wanting to be sure that she spoke her mind with clarity. "Those moments have meant a lot to me too, Miss. It sounds corny to say it out loud, but you're kind of my hero. You got me here." She smiled brightly at Madeline's declaration, leaning forward unprompted to press a soft kiss to her lips. "Sealed with a kiss," she chuckled. "I'm afraid you're stuck with me now."

Madeline laughed in surprise at the kiss, but she leaned forward to take a second kiss. They were short and sweet kisses, but they were exactly what she needed right now. "Sealed with a kiss on my end, too," she said, her smile bright on her face as she looked back Fae. "You got yourself here, Fae. I'm just here to offer you support and protection. But you're the one doing all of the hard work."

She hadn't expected Madeline to return the kiss, but Fae smiled widely in response. She was dealing with a happiness that was overwhelming, in a very pleasant way. "I needed a reason, though," she shook her head. "You gave it to me. You put your faith in me, no pun intended, and treated me like I could do this. I don't think it would have happened without you."

"I treated you like you could do this because I could see that you could do this," Madeline told her. "I may have given you a nudge in the right direction, but you did this on your own. You deserve a lot more credit than you're giving yourself. I'm here to help you along the way, but your successes are your own, Fae. Don't forget that."

Getting emotional wasn't in Fae's wheelhouse, or her comfort zone. But there was no denying that she'd been on a remarkable journey since arriving in Lima, one that had changed not only the person she was but the person she wanted to be. And Madeline had been a remarkable part of that story. Eyes welling up at last, she leaned closer and buried her face against the Domme's neck. She held a lot in, and maybe it was time to let some of it go.

As Fae's head landed against Madeline's body, she placed a comforting hand on the back of it, holding her in place against her. "I'm so proud of you, Fae," she murmured. Holding her like this felt good and right and like they were starting on a journey to somewhere perfect. "And I promise you, I will do everything in my power to support you and protect you and keep you safe."

Fae took in the words, empowered knowing that Madeline would stand behind her whether she failed or flew, and let herself cry for a while against the Domme's shoulder. It would have embarrassed her on any other day, but she needed the emotional release in that moment, and she only pulled back again when she was sure she had some kind of control over herself. "Sorry," she murmured, laughing around the lump in her throat. "Guess things kind of caught up with me."

Madeline didn't know what was going through Fae's head right now or what was causing her tears, but she did know that she felt honored that the other woman was allowing herself to feel this here with her--and that she was able to take some comfort in Madeline's presence, too. She simply held her and let her get it all out. "You have nothing to apologize for, Fae," she said, hooking a finger under her chin to guide her to look at her. "Do you have words for what's going through that beautiful head?"

Eyes red-rimmed, Fae met Madeline's gaze without hesitation. "I think it was just...letting go of some baggage, Miss. Being able to kind of sit back and realize that I'm so incredibly lucky. How far I've come and this new journey we're going to take, it's just a lot of good things and I don't think I've really sat down and let myself feel all of it until just this second. So when it hit me it kind of all hit me at the same time."

Madeline gently swiped her thumb underneath each of Fae's eyes in turn, wiping away the remnants of the tears that she'd just released. "You really have come so far in just the few months I've known you," she said, "and you're going to go so much further from here. I'm really glad you want me around to support you through that, because I can't wait to see who you are a few months from now... even a year or two from now."

Fae let her eyes shut as Madeline wiped her tears away, a smile ghosting across her lips. "Hopefully whoever I end up being is still the person you want to have in your life, Miss Madeline. Because I know future me isn't going to have changed her mind about wanting to be in it." It was cheesy, but she was pretty certain it was the truth.

Madeline smiled at Fae. "I won't hold it against you if I end up not being the sort of Dominant you want long-term," she said, her insecurities about her sex issues surfacing once more. "But let's try this and see where it leads us, hm? We'll take it one day at a time, and hopefully, we'll have a lot of days together ahead of us."

"I don't think that's possible, Miss. You've never given me any reason to think I'd change my mind, and there's nothing about you I want to change. But you're right. We'll take it a day at a time, and this journey will be something we take together." She stole one more kiss, on the cheek this time, and nestled against Madeline.

Madeline blushed softly at the kiss. She didn't know if she'd ever get used to Fae's affection for her, and part of her hoped she didn't. She didn't ever want to lose this feeling. "Come here," she said, wrapping her arm back around Fae's shoulders. "Today's been a very good day," she murmured. "I bet tomorrow will be, too."

Fae snuggled as close as humanly possible, her outburst of emotion having tired her out more than a little. "It's been a great day," she nodded agreement. "Tomorrow's the start of something new, and it's also going to be great. We should do something to celebrate."

"Yeah?" Madeline asked, looking down fondly at the girl in her arms. How had she gotten so lucky to have Fae trust her like this? Whatever it was, she'd do it again in a heartbeat. "What do you have in mind, Fae?"

"Well, I've got two night passes that I won during the basket auction," Fae smiled. "I thought we could use one of them and go out on the town. Go for a nice dinner, maybe walk around a little and just enjoy the company, and then stay in a hotel for the night. Something with a nice comfy bed where we could order room service and watch tv and fall asleep with each other."

Madeline smiled. Part of her wasn’t sure she wanted Fae using one of her night passes on her, but she reminded herself that they were going to try something more serious together and that it made perfect sense in that context. “You’ve got excellent ideas, Fae,” she said. “Perhaps... after parents week is over?”

Fae smiled. "That would be great, Miss. We can definitely do it afterwards, and make sure that you've got as much time to spend with your family as you can. After all, it only comes once a year, right? I wouldn't take you away from that."

“You know I want you to be a part of that this week, too, right?” Madeline asked. “I know that meeting my parents probably takes on a bit of a different feeling now, but... I would still like you to meet them, if you’re still up for it.”

The thought of it was slightly more terrifying now, but Fae wasn't going to back out because of that. No matter what might happen in the future, she did still want to meet Madeline's family. "I'd like that too, Miss. I'm still up for it."

"I'm really glad you are," Madeline replied, smiling brightly at the Switch. "Both of my parents are really nice, so you shouldn't feel intimidated or anything. We just aren't going to have this opportunity for another year, and, well... I'm just glad that you're willing to give it a go for me."

"I'm happy to try anything that makes you happy, Miss. I won't lie and say I'm not going to be intimidated, but I do want to be there with you even if I don't say much. I'm not sure what the etiquette is when it comes to introducing yourself as a recovering alcoholic."

Madeline's fingers had found their way in between strands of Fae's hair again, and she smiled at how the gesture seemed to comfort them both in a way. "I think the etiquette really is whatever makes you the most comfortable. Your recovery is your business. If you want to share that with them, they won't think any less of you, but if you want to keep that to yourself, I support that, too."

Fae hummed softly as Madeline played with her hair. Clearly it was something they both enjoyed, and it was nice that they had a little physical contact that made them both happy. "I'll think on it," she nodded. "I don't know if I want to go all true confessions on them, but if the subject comes up I won't keep it a secret, either."

"I think that sounds like a good plan," Madeline said. "I'm glad you're thinking about it, too. You don't ever have to share parts of you with anyone else if you don't want to, but as long as you feel safe, I don't think hiding is necessarily the right decision, either."

"I'm sure it'll take me some time to figure it all out," Fae admitted. "How much people get to know about me. Until now I've been pretty straightforward about being a drunk, but if I'm actually going to not be that anymore...maybe I don't want to tell just anyone."

"If it's relevant information, then I don't see why you shouldn't share your journey if you feel comfortable doing so," Madeline said, "but you need to do what feels best for you. Alcohol doesn't define you."

Fae's eyes welled up again, and she blinked a few times to clear them. She was still getting used to people who saw her as something more than her habit. "Thank you, Miss. I really appreciate that - that you see me that way, and that you give me the chance to define myself."

Madeline smiled, tucking a stray strand of hair behind Fae's ear. "You should always feel like you have the ability to define yourself," she said, "and I don't feel like this is something I deserve thanks for, but you're welcome, Fae. I'm always here to support you."

"Not to disagree with my Domme or anything," Fae was testing the words out, and she found she very much liked the way they sounded, "but you do deserve some thanks. You're an amazing person, Miss, and I want you to know that I think so."

Madeline hadn't expected to hear the words my Domme from Fae's lips just yet, but god, did she love the sound of them. She could get used to that, for sure. "Well, thank you, Fae, for thinking so. I'm glad my submissive feels that way about me."

Fae processed the use of "my submissive" for a second, more than a little surprised at how good it felt. "She absolutely does, Miss, Very much so." There wasn't any doubt or hesitation in her voice, and she relaxed all the more against Madeline. "I'm really happy right now," she murmured.

"Me too," Madeline replied, unable to keep the smile off her face if she wanted to. Fae was hers. It wasn't in any sort of official, legal way, but they were going to try this, and she could think of nothing she wanted more in this moment.

Fae turned a little so that she could look up at Madeline. "Think we can head to bed and cuddle for a little, Miss? I can make us something to eat later - or order something, whatever you'd prefer. You might be better off getting something ordered in," she joked quietly.

Madeline chuckled and nodded. "Maybe we can get some cooking lessons together," she suggested. While she would prefer one of her subs to take care of cooking and cleaning, she didn't want to be helpless, either. She was a decent cook, but she could always learn more, and it sounded like something fun they could do together. "Let's go to bed and think about food later." She pushed the blanket off of them and stood up, holding a hand out to help Fae get up, too.

"I'd like that," Fae smiled. "I don't make any promises about how well I can learn, but I'll give it my best." Accepting Madeline's hand, she let herself be pulled from the couch and smiled at her Domme. "That sounds like a heck of a plan to me, Miss."

Once Fae was up, Madeline shifted her grip so that she could hold her sub's hand as they walked back to her bedroom. She thought about changing into pajamas but decided that she'd rather just stay dressed and cuddle sooner. She let go of Fae's hand long enough to climb under the covers, and she patted the bed next to her for Fae to get in, too.

Fae contentedly followed, giving their joined hands a squeeze. She wasn't sure why she felt a little tired, except maybe that the flood of happiness she'd felt had worn her system down. Fortunately they could just cuddle - there was nowhere to be and nothing they had to do, and she could just curl up contentedly in Madeline's arms. Smiling, she slid between the sheets and curled up, taking the little spoon position and sighing happily.

Once Fae was settled in front of her, Madeline settled the sheet and comforter down over her and scooted in behind her, her arm draping protectively over Fae's side. "Hi," she whispered into Fae's ear, and she let out a bit of an excited giggle at how good this felt. "Just close your eyes and rest a bit, if you can."

"Hi, Miss," Fae smiled. Her giggle made Fae's smile all the brighter, and she cuddled in just as close as she could. With an arm over her, she felt safe and warm and protected. "You too, if you can. I think we both need it."

Madeline hummed and pressed a kiss to Fae's neck, just behind her ear. "I'll do my best," she said softly. "It certainly helps knowing exactly what I'll be waking up to."

If she grinned any more widely it would be painful. "I know exactly what you mean, Miss. I promise you that." She couldn't wait to wake up beside Madeline, even if her adrenaline only let her have a few minutes.

"Good girl," Madeline said softly, and she kissed her neck one more time before closing her eyes. "Rest now, Fae."

Humming with pleasure, Fae let her face turn slightly into the pillow. "I'll see you soon, Miss," she murmured as she let herself start to drift

#para #p:faith #p:moving forward

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popculturebuffet · 5 years ago

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Analysis of X: Excalibur: The Sword is Drawn

In honor of britan’s premire superhero team returning today, we take a look back at the original team. Kitty Pryde and Nightcrawler must team up with a drunkard magical british superman and his chipper shapeshifting sorta girlfriend to save their old teammate from an alternate dystopian future with the power of a god from both a squad of skin stealing wolves sicced on her by a sinsiter reality show producer from another dimension and a group of intergalactic weirdo bounty hunters after her due to an entirely separate omniversal dictator who wants to bang british superman. Somehow, Grant Morrison didn’t write this. I would like to, if I may, take you on a strange journey after the cut.

Excalibur has always been the odd mutant out of the X-Men franchise.And that’s in part because the bulk of it’s mythos and characters come not from the deep wells of the X-Men comics of the time, but from another character Chris Claremont had a huge hand in: Captain Britain

Created shortly after Claremont got his start on the All-New All-Diffrent X-Men, redefining the X-Men forever and making them into the sales juggernaut they were for the 80′s and early to mid-90′s and are again today at long last, Captain Britan was Brian Braddock, a scientist who, while escaping a hired goon who torched his workplace, crashed his motorbike. He was saved by, of all things, Merlin... yes exactly the one your thinking of.... and his daughter and omniveral guardian Roma. They choose Brian to be their champion choosing either the staff of right or the sword of might and, not really being a fighter, Brian chose the staff and a hero was born.

Cap was created for the UK Divison of Marvel and while Claremont did a sizeable amount of work on the character, including introducing Brian’s sister and future X-Man and as of this week Captain Britan herself Betsy Braddock, it was two other men who made most of his mythos and the stuff that would end up being the backbone of Excalibur: Alan Davis, an absolutely monsterous talent of an artist and all around nice guy and... your going to want to sit down if you don’t know this I sure as hell was surprised, Alan Fucking Moore... and if that’s not his actual middle name it should be. Yes he of long beards, genere definting runs and yelling at the young people to get off his lawn and DC to stop hurting his baby Watchmen, THAT Alan Moore worked for marvel breifly. This was his only work with them shockingly. Not so shockingly he and Davis redefined the character, created most of the concepts that would be carried over to Excalibur, and gave the character a spiffy new costume seen above, one so good it’s stuck even into the modern era. Moore, and some other artists in addition to Davis, crafted a long epic about Cap going up against Mad Jim Jaspers, a reality warping mutant who was as insane as his name suggested and introduced many things that would become the backbone of the character, as well as establishing Moore’s habit of taking a less than sucessful B-List hero and utterly turning him on his head. Their also the ones who dubbed Marvel’s main universe 616, a fun fact I honestly had forgotten. But of course after Moore left Cap fell by the wayside, making a cameo or too in other marvel books in the US while Betsy made her way to the X-Men just when they needed new blood most. More on that in a bit. But he wouldn’t stay on the sidelines for long. See Chris Claremont has a habit of taking characters he created and using them later if they’d been forgotten somehow or put off to the wayside. Mystique, one of the x-men’s most iconic enemies... was a Ms.Marvel (The carol danvers one before she got the rank up), enemy. Sabertooth? An old iron fist villian he’d created and taken a shine to. Arcade was inveted for a team up of Spider-Man and Captain Britan before primarily becoming an X-Men villian for most of his life. And of course Betsy was a a supporting character who became one of the x-men’s most iconic members through a weird mind swap with a japanese woman before recently getting her old body back. Claremont dosen’t like leaving his charcters to twist in the wind and thus brought most of them into the x-men mythos. Even Spider-Woman, depowered at the time, ended up as a major Wolverine supporting character. One of Claremont’s strengths as a writer to me is that he never truly forgot anything he created or worked on, and the X-Men benefited greatly from it. So while it probably surprised american readers who only thought of Captain Britain as a c-list hero who teamed up with Spider-Man and Captain America, it’s no surprise in hindsight that for his second X-Men ongoing, having also made a TON of mini series, he choose to bring Brian to the big time. While I can’t find much background on Excalibur, I conjecture that Chris wanted to go a bit lighter.

The X-Men were in a DARK place at the time. I mean the X-Men were never all sunshine and roses but most of the humor of the book and lighter moments were gone at the time thanks to the Mutant Massacre, an event where the Morlocks, a group of disfigured homeless mutants who felt at odds with society and thus lived in the tunnels under New York, were slaughtered by professional hitsquad the Mauraders who killed all but a handful of them and during the fight with the X-men took 3 of them out of commission: Nightcrawler had fallen into a coma after overtaking his already crippled teleportation powers defeating one of the mauraders, Kitty Pryde slowly started to disappear, unable to phase back to solid after taking an electric spear for Rouge, and Colossus was heavily wounded in ways I forgot and since he rejoined the X-Men, aren’t really relevant here anyway. The X-Men were up against the wall against a barrage of ruthless opponents, working with longtime foe magneto since Xavier got trapped in space, as you do, and were not in a really happy place. So it feels like, even if the angst was still present because Claremont would go into withdrawl if there wasn’t some form of angst to work off, Excalibur was created as a way for him to do something different in the X-Mold and lighter so he could go as dark as he needed to. So by injuring Kitty and Kurt, he took them off the board and had a starting point for the team, and by adding Captain Britan and his girlfriend Meggan, a shapeshifting empath brought back one of his own creations and brought him into the american side of Marvel, and gave him an almost complete team. It also had the bonus of likely enticing Alan Davis, who in one of the few background things I could find about this book, didn’t really want to work on an established title like X-Men where there were expectations how it was supposed to look etc. But they were still about one member short of a team... but thankfully chris claremont had squared away a spare x-man for just such an occasion.

Enter. Phoenix, aka Rachel Summers. The daughter of Jean Grey and Scott Summers from the Days of Future Past timeline, Rachel ended up in our timeline, bonded to the Phoenix Force like her mom, and struggling with the power, eventually running away after attempting to kill Selene, an evil sorceress who hunted her in an attempt to drain her power. She fled, not sure wether she should rejoin her team or not, and was instead lured into joining Mojo on the promise of a new start. Mojo.. is this guy.

Strap yourselves in for this one: Mojo is the dictator of another dimension that runs off TV, essentially crafting shows for the media hungry populous and kidnapping the X-Men every so often to show up on his programs, to the point he once swapped Psylocke’s natural eyes out with robot camera eyes that looked like the normal eyes so he could record the X-Men’s adventures as it happened, which itself isn’t a bad concept. He didn’t show up to Rachel in person of course, partly because he’s too lazy and partly because he looks like what happens when lightning strikes a pile of twinkies and exposed wiring and somehow brings them to life. She was sent here for the same reason as Kurt and Kitty: to keep her off the board and set up her return here. It’s one of Claremont’s strengths to me: While he ocasionally forgets a subplot or dosen’t realize how wonky one is, more often than not he knows where the story is going and has a plan for it, and thus set up Excalibur a year in advance in the pages of Mutant Massacre.

Speaking of setup there’s one final thing to cover before we begin, the second X-Men crossover event and the one that directly leads into this: Fall of The Mutants, aka one of the worst days in the life of one Kitty Pryde. First her best friend and human google translate Doug Ramsey died while on a misson with the new mutants, sacrificing himself to save the life of his girlfriend Wolfsbane.

As if someone was challenging god to make her days worth, at the same time as this tragedy the X-Men, at the time made up of Storm, Wolverine, Psylocke, Rouge, Havok, Dazzler, Longshot and with tag along Madeline Piror whose story is too much to get into here, were locked in a battle with force of chaos and actual demon Nemisis, a being summoned by their sorta ally Forge by accident. Forge can also build any device he pleases but since every fifth x-men character has magic ruin their life, someone had to take the bullet caked with demon blood. At any rate the only way to stop him.. 9 souls were part of the ritual that brought Nemisis in, 9 souls were needed for the ritual to seal him up. And the X-Men, being true heroes determined to do whatever it took, gladly offered up their lives to defeat the demon and save the world. As the world looked on, the X-Men died, for once not feared and hated, but honored and mourned as heroes. Of course this being a comic book Forge’s method of saving the world was turning the X-Men into pure soul energy and throwing them at the demon but that somehow makes it more epic. And of course, it’s no suprise one of their dearest friends was watching from Muir Island, which was serving as a recovery ward for the surviviors of the massacre and was run by longtime X-Men Ally and lynchpin of Hickman’s run Moira Mactaggert

Thankfully, Kitty got one tiny sliver of sunshine on the worst day of her life: Kurt woke up from his coma... just in time to tell him the only family he’d ever known is dead. And that’s where we pick up, with our two heroes trying to figure out what to do now they’ve lost everything. But before we FINALLY get started, this bit was way longer than I meant it to be, your probably curious how long the X-Men stayed dead as well.. this is comics and they were the hottest team int he world. This wasn’t going to stick even if Claremont was serious about ending the series. And the answer, and i’m not making this up I counted, is two pages. Yup, TWO PAGES. Not kidding. Ironically enough Roma, the omniversal goddess daughter of merlin I mentioned, got wrapped up in all this and, moved by the X-Men’s bravery, gave them the chance to come back and start over however they like, and the X-Men choose to be unable to be picked up on tape and let the world think they were dead so they could strike back at their mounting enemies. Granted I feel that while the “play dead and take out our worse foes while we have the advantage” is a good part of it, not telling the new mutants or kitty and kurt is not only cruel, but just paints a target on a bunch of teenagers backs. Sure teenagers who’ve faced worse but still. But I digress, that’s a rant for when I cover Fall of the Mutants at some point and this exposition has taken far longer than I wanted it to. And so here we are at the one shot that would forge a team and finally, we can get into it: The cover, way up there is decent. It shows a nice right melee between Excalibur, the Warwolves and the Technet, though it makes it look like Gatecrasher is part of the team when she is in fact one of the issue’s main antagonist and is overall a bit weirdly composed. It doesn't help the proper Excalibur #1 has one of the best x-team covers of all time.

As you can see the comparison dosen’t help the far messier above cover. It’s just average in comparison to the creative and funny covers Davis would provide throughout both runs and the majestic one above. WE open on Kitty Pryde, understandably, having a nightmare, being dragged by a crew of makeup people just off screen and smack into

Oh good marvel’s already working on the new X-Men movie. Thank god I thought they really WERE going to take 5 years to do it. Naturally she is curious why their in hollywood but dosen’t suspect fowl play because well... to put it in a personal persepctive if I saw my grandpa I lost a few years ago or my dog I lost in high school that was the same age as me, alive healthy and back, i’d be confused as hell but mostly? I’d just be relived and hope beyond hope it was real, as poor Kitty is diong. Unfortunatley the illusion something isn’t up lasts all about a panel before this happens.

First of all: AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!. Second. as AHHHHHH! as it is.. it could’ve been worse.

It soon becomes clear something is up as Kitty wails around confused, wondering why Rouge’s powers don’t work and why the X-Men are acting as if nothing is real before action is called and they run off.. it’s then Kitty finally encounters a freindly face.

It's now from context clear just what the fuck is going on: this isn't JUST a dream: Rachel has somehow dragged Kitty into Mojoworld through her dreams, warning her, as seen above that with the X-Men gone, their image can be twisted and exploited by those wanting to use it for their own image. This warning is cut short when Fake Xavier starts shouting and soon we get this lovely image.

As we can see Rachel deeply regrets running but Mojo won't let her go.. fortunatley Kitty phases the chains and lets Rachel go, with Rachel promising to see kitty again soon as she flees.. unfortunatley Kitty's pissed off Mojo's actors...

Again, it could’ve been worse.

Kitty wakes up and naturally angsts a bit over that fucked up dream she had and then sees a phoenix in the sky, wondering what could it mean and what could the dream mean.

A lot to unpack here. First off... Perverso...

Second, my heart breaks at that last line.. and it’s true. Kitty likely feels, like a lot of people going through grief, that maybe they could’ve done something. Maybe if she was there she could’ve stopped their deaths and saved the day or failing that, she could’ve gone with them. So she wouldn’t have to feel awful about being here while they aren’t, so she wouldn’t feel the unbearable weight of being one of the last X-Men. But the sad truth is, she wouldn’t of made any diffrence. None of them would’ve taken the last slot and would’ve given it instead to their tagalong Madeline Prior so she could see her family again. They died selfilesly, and nothing she could’ve done would’ve stopped them.

As seen above Kitty tries to take solace in petting her dragon Lockheed. Yes Kitty has a dragon for those who didn’t know about him or were only familiar with her from the cartoons.. though why X-Men Evolution never thought to introduce Lockheed is beyond me. He’s a space dragon that stowed away when the X-Men returned from well.. space, and saved Kitty’s life, taking up residence as her pet. He was later revealed to be far more sapient than he seems, but still hangs around Kitty because it’s an effed up world, but it’s a two player game. But as demonstrated Kitty’s powers have inverted. While she has gotten better, as I talked about in my Mauraders #1 review she was fading from existance shortly after the massacre, her intangiable state is now her natural one. She has to concenrate to turn solid. So in addition to having lost just about everything, her powers are broken too. Kitty then sees a picture of her shortly after she joined the X-Men before having a good cry about how most of the people in the picture are dead and professor xavier got shot up into space. Thankfully he dosen’t have to watch cheesy movies.. unless it’s Cho’d turn to pick the movie. For some reason it’s ALWAYS Cool as Ice. no one knows why.

Meanwhile, in the seas of mood whiplash, we meet Meggan. Meggan, like most of the cast, is a mutant, something I was unaware of until now even though the I just thought she was some sort of magical creature, but no, she’s a mutant and the naration outright calls her one. I’m just stupid or thought they just classifed her wrong I guess. Unlike most mutants, who manifest powers at puberty, she manifested hers at birth. Megan is an empathic shapeshifter, basically meaning that she shifts based on those around her’s perception of her. And sadly her upbringing was not a happy one as, since she was born with fur, her parents saw her as a monster and left her in a caravan alone, with the rest of her romani community making up rumors about her.. and due to being unable to control her powers shape shifted into the monster they thought she was. She was raised on televisoin and thus has a rather naive sense of the outside world, and later bonded with brian after he took her in, her home having been destroyed due to lots of stuff I don’t have time to go into, and she later took up her current default form after realizing she was a shapeshifter in the first place. But yes our bubbly shapeshifter is swimming with the dolphins and due to her emphatic ablites, she can commuincate with them learns how to swim like them and, thanks to her ablities, has shifted to do so the best. She’s lost track of time though and heads home to the lighthouse she and Brian live in. She returns home to find the place ransacked, and since she didn’t feed her mogwii after midnight.. this time, she searches for the cause.. and the cause turns out to be similar to the reason Kitty is crying her eyes out miles away in scotland.

When Kitty and Kurt lost their surrogate family, Brian lost his too. As stated far above Betsy was his sister, and they were very close from the looks of it, and the loss of her naturally shattered the man. Meggan tries to comfort him but.. it goes about as well as you’d expect, especially since Brian has been heavily drinking on top of his grief.

This scene.. is really damn sad but really well written. Brian, as I joked in the teaser, has the powers of superman basically minus the add ons like heat vision and frost breath.. yet he couldn't save Betsy. But as Meggan accuratley puts things, he couldn’t of known she was in danger and she was a grown woman. As I said, she choose to sacrifice herself, and as I didn’t fill in, the spell only works with WILLING participants. All that would’ve changed had he gone is Madelyne Prior would be alive and not him. And it’s things like this that also made me take such umbrage with the X-Men faking their deaths: their causing, real genuine greif to people... while I joked mildly about the telpathy thing, i’m not sure betsy’s range, I AM sure that being a telepath one of the simpliest trick is masking your presence. It’d take a lot of effort and be mildly invasive, but keeping yourself hidden to tell your brother goodbye is hardly more morally grey than faking your death and leaving him in a drunken stupor. This is especailly bad once they get a teleporter shortly into their australian stay, as Gateway could SEND HER to him, with no risk of detection, and have her explain it in person with storm in tow. Instead they hurt their friends and loved ones for a plan that ultimatley didn’t quite pan out.

Meggan herself mopes for a second, understandable as Betsy was her friend too and she's hurt she's gone and blames herself.. before snapping out of it, realizing that Brian is just lashing out and needs help, but unable to face him like he is, she leaves him a pictoral note, since she's functionally illiterate, and goes to get advice from Kitty and Kurt, wanting to help him open up the way he helped her do the same. Meanwhile...

Jesus christ this comic loves abrupt tonal shifts.. but yeah Kurt is excercising, but then reflexively teleports after he takes a hit. As I mentioned earlier Kurt’s teleporting is strained, having gotten injured in a battle with Nimrod, who really hickman you couldn’t of come up with either a better name or a reason he’s called that when you brought him back in House and Powers?, and as a result comaed himself defeating one of the mauraders. And while the coma thing cleared up nicely his powers are still a fraction of what they once were and one teleport while injured no less leaves him too shaky to continue and reaching for the saftey panel. Thankfully Kitty phases through it while checking up on him, having been told through the island’s backup alarms that he was doing this borderline suicidal shenanigan. Kitty naturally lays into him over it.

Kitty's rage is entirely warranted: She just lost her surrogate family and her best friend. Things with her parents are strained. She dosen't want to loose the only family she really has left because he feels the same things she feels and is nearly killing himself to try and deal with it. Kurt apologizes, admitting the painful part of it: that he was HAPPY when he woke up from his coma, overjoyed to finally be alive again, to live again.. only to find out his family is dead from one of his closest friends. And with this i'm reminded of Steven Universe.. just go with me. There Pearl mourned for a good decade about loosing Rose because well.. she was everything she had. She , literally and metaphorically, freed her, she was her world.. and Rose moved on to someone else romantically and then decided to up and leave the mortal coil. Her entire world left her and she had no idea to cope or as she put it in song, "Who am I now in this world without her?" That's what our heroes are dealing with: for Kitty and Kurt the X-Men were their world.. not in such a co-dependent way as rose but for Kurt, it was his family: through them he went from a monster in the world's eyes, hiding from it and tired of having to do so, to a bold hero who refused to hide who he was anymore and who had family and a purpose. For young Kitty, she found parental figures in a time when her actual parents, particularly her dad, were going through a messy divorce, found strength she never knew to the point she EARNED her right to stay on the X-Men after Xavier started a junior class and wanted her to go there, and really came of age. The X-Men made them who they are today and without them.. just who are they? But before they can dive into that themselves our heroes find out something disturbing: they had the same exact dream about rachel, complete with helping her escape. Maybe they really did or maybe it was just a warning, the conculsion our heroes reach, and while Kitty does resolve to do something about it, determining that just because their injured dosen’t mean they’ve stopped being X-Men, but before they can deal with this they get a guest.

No but she’s just as weird and abrubt:

This is Gatecrasher, leader of the The Technet, a group of interdimensional mercenaries and bounty hunters. She wants to speak with the lady of the house but that’s not really and option as she’s kinda on a schedule. You know people to grab, drinks to be drunks, sapient racoons to bone.. that sorta thing.. and the last one isn’t something I pulled out of nowhere the recent Rocket Racoon solo not only brought in the technet but had her fancy the guy. Guess it’s the fuzzy, as Kurt himself will tell you chicks dig the fuzzy. It’s why he’s Krakoa’s orgy meister. Before Kitty and Kurt can find out who Gatecrasher is and why she’s here, Meggan soars in.. and hisses at Gatecrasher. See The good captain and the Technet have a history: they’ve been both enemies and reluctant allies, so naturally Meggan is worried their here for Brian. But this time they have no buisness with the good Captain... and when asked by kitty why she’s here Gatecrasher uses a telecom crystal, some sort of magic hologram recording, to explain herself:

Saturnyne is , as she says an omniversal majestrix. This basically means she runs the day to day operations of the Captain Britan Corps, basically the Captain Britians for every reality, helps give underdeveloped words nudges toward advancment and general multiversal maintince stuff. Sorta like a combination of Omnitraxus and Hekapoo from star vs the forces of evil but without being a racist asshole. I mean she’s still an asshole, just not a racist one. She and Brian have a romantic history. As you can also see each of the team is having a different reaction to her: Kurt is popping a boner just off screen, maybe he can invite her to Krakoa orgy night hmm?, Meggan is pissed because she and Brian were a thing once, and Kitty just found out she likes ladies AND she likes guy. What i’m saying is it dosen’t take an intellectual to get that she’s bisexual. And yes I know she turned down Karma off screen later on but that was A) the result of another writer changing things after the previous writer on both character, Chris Claremont himself, apparently had sizeable ship tease for them. and B) if her ex boyfriend iceman can be retconned to have been a heavily closeted until very recently gay man this whole time, Kitty can also have been sticking to the closet or just simply have not explored that side if we want. Anyways it turns out there here for rachel at Saturnyne’s orders, because she’s apparently a theat to the multiverse.. not too much of a stretch when in one reality her mom going dark phoenix destroyed damn near everything and even here the phoenix force has snuffed out entire galaxies. She’s apparently on her way back to earth, and it’s the Technet’s job to catch her. As for the specifics.. Gatecrasher has no idea. And frankly when an omniversal goddess asks you go fetch someone for what I assume is a yak that has a comparentment in it’s back with millions of dollars stashed inside, you don’t really care. Kitty being Kitty, refuses to help her find their friend and until she knows more, she’s willing to fight her on it. Unfortunatley, as you can probably tell, Gatecrasher wasn’t dumb enough to go after a being that can eat an entire solar system alone.

It's here we meet the Technet proper and a fight between two former teammates, a shapeshifter they only just now met and who only Kurt recognized, and a team of weird as shit but highly trained bounty hunters goes about as well as the classic matchup of Wolverine vs "Anyone trying to get between him and his beer stash". Kitty is quickly taken out by the yellow girl with green hair, scatterbrain, whose power is.. just that: anyone she touches has their brain go all spacey and weird and kitty knocks herself out falling over when Scatter shuts her thinky parts off. And as for Meggan..

This is Bodybag. And his power is exactly what it looks like: he gulps people up and then keeps them in his sack on the back. It’s weird but i’ts my kind of creative weird and it makes sense for a team of bounty hunters to have a member to store their quarrry. Kurt wisely BAMF’s the fuck out of there, but Gatecrasher decides not to persue him: He’s not their target, and if he wants his friends he’ll have to come back for them anyway, so it’s not like chasing him all over is really worth the effort. She does have Bodybag snag kitty though, and plans to use her and Meggan as bargaining chips.

Meanwhile Rachel finally returns to the story, as seen above a bit discombobulated given you know, she just crossed dimensions or whatever hapepned. She then ends up at a charity masqurade party , just poofying out of nowhere and when she tries to you know, leave...

I just... what the fuck kind of charity event IS this? The chains she brought with her but “no one leaves without permisson. “ I just... THIS IS A CHARITY BALL NOT VIETNAM. And who, besides racist assholes, thinks holdiing someone down with chains is a good idea. Just WHAT IS THIS SCENE. Thankfully we get some other party crashers.

These are Warwolves, a new, as far as I can tell, creation and basically Mojo’s literal hunting dogs. Rachel tries fighting them off but naturally, their Psi-Proof so just blasting them with telekenisis won’t work and uses the objects around her, including her own chains to duck them. But she mutters what’s the point it’s just another sound stage.. except as I said, it isn’t. She’s in foggy london town.

Rachel continues her run through the urban jungle eventually ending up in a subway. No not the restraunt, she’s not that unlucky. Duckign onto a train one of the warwolves globs on.

To be fair most hollywood contracts are basically slavery, but Rachel as a point.. she was basically tricked into singing it, again not exactly uncommon, and refuses to take this bullshit.

This bit is awesome, and doubly so as I left out a bit of Rachel's backstory on purpose earlier: she was a hound. Basically it meant she was enslaved and conditioned to hunt down other mutants, only escaping shortly before days of future past happened and then escsaping into the present. So naturally the thought of being enslaved and forced to do some asshole's bidding again, to loose her free will? She'll die before that happens and slaughters the warwolf to prove it.. though also scares her fellow passangers in the process. While Rachel tries to explain thing the warwolves greeve.. and Teleporter, Gatecrasher's lizard thing, has located Rachel. Meanwhile Madison is grappling with the fact that not every issue can be settled by comittee... Meanwhile Kurt arrives at the Lighthouse to find Brian stinking of booze and asleep, so he decides to do the only logical thing he can think of.

I fucking love you Kurt. So since Godzilla is too busy at his tax audit to save him from the depths of the ocean Brian wakes up himself pissed and assuming someone tried to kill him. Which granted Kurt outright admitted he might drown but given the only two friends he has left in the world and an innocent he just met who fought beside him despite having no reason to besides it being the right thing are in mortal peril, he has no time to play nice. Kurt’s responses to Brian’s outrage are fucking amazing.

Fucking brutal and accurate: Brian’s alcoholism is killing him and is just as borderline suicidal as Kurt’s play session with largely the same intention. Kurt has no time for wallowing in self pity, no time to baby Brian, as much as it might be warranted, through his grief. Kurt Wagner needs a hero, and since the avengers and fantastic four would likely take hours he dosen’t have, Brian is his best bet at saving his friends. He has no time for pity or sadness, he only has time to save what he has left. He explains the situation to Brian as well as how the hell he found him: since he at least knew of Brian, likely due to Betsy as she was staying with the X-Men prior to joining and just before the massacre, he dug up the X-Men’s file on him and spent the rest of his time getting to him. Brian is, unsurprisingly, in no real mood to help and mopes that there’s really no point in it… and that’s when Kurt somehow gets even more pissed off and 20 times as awesome, with a speech worthy of Sir Patrick Stewart himself.

And as I’ve made abundantly clear that’s the point of this story: The X-Men’s temporary death was unfair, left a lot of pain in their wake and left our heroes scrambling to figure out where do they go from here? And it’s here Nightcrawler is the first besides Meggan, whose simple world view means it was a lot easier to process things and took her three panels to get herself in gear to help Brian, to really turn a corner on his grief. He’s sad his friends are dead, he wishes more than anything that he could’ve died a hero like them instead of living with the misery and sorrow of them being gone.. but he’s alive. And he’s going to honor them the best he can by being the kind of man they wanted him to be. And to me this is why Kurt became leader: out of the five he has the most experience, with only Brian rivaling him in that, but also the most drive. He may of lost everything, but by god he’s going to keep moving. Sure his friends died, it’s the risk of the trade.. but they’d want him to live, to take up the sword and keep fighting so that the dream dosen’t fade out. It’s why, as much as I don’t agree with it, they kept hteir resurrection a secret: because the safety of all mutants, of their friends, is more important than one man. And Kurt is going to honor that. But not before giving Brian another verbal bitchslapping.

Of course it’s not easy as Brian DID die to become captain britan.. and the memory haunts him. And he wonders when it’ll come from him.. and he’s afraid of it. But the question is will he let his fear of the reaper swallow him whole or live like Kurt, fighting on anyways. To truly live.

Meanwhile Rachel is the only member of the forming team to not have had a full on mope sesh so she gets on that, but it only lasts for about a panel and like most of the angst in this comic is warranted: Rachel comptemplates if she should go back to the X-Men.. but realizes despite running out on them , their family, and she has no other options. But before she can learn the truth the technet are upon her and bodybag scoops her up. Gatecrasher plans to release Kitty and Meggan and one thing I like that I hadn’t noticed in previous reads is Gatecrasher is a fairly intresting antagonist. She’s not “evil”, she’s just a merc wanting a payday, and in this case was hired by a legitmate if pompus source. While she takes Kitty and Meggan, it’s more out of pragmatisim and as noted she plans to release the two when she could’ve let Bodybag digest them, and when first showing up is perfectly cordial to Kurt and Kitty, and only fights when it’s clear our heroes won’t let her just walk off with their old friend. It makes me glad there’s far more of her and the technet to come as the series goes on and a ton more in Alan Davis run when I get to that. Their intresting characters with unique power sets and inject a sense of fun into what would otherwise be a fairly dreary story. Anyways before she can do that the warwolves strike and are too dumb to know when to quit so a fight breaks out and Gatecrasher beats the piss out of one while Kurt arrives, watching from the shadows. As for why no one’s spotted him... i’ts simple: One of his powers is to blend into shadows. It’s not used often and it’s forgotten quite a bit, but it is one he’s used on ocasion and even IF Claremont just retconned it out, his foes are too busy to notice. Kurt once again shows how awesome he is and tricks one of the wolves into slashing the bags containing his friends open. Gross but oh so triumphant.

Unfortunatley his victory is short lived: Meggan and Kitty are still woozy as, while I didn’t mention this earlier, Bodybags bags contain a paralyzing goop so they still aren’t quite ready to fight and while Rachel is, she can’t psy zap the dog. Luckily for Kurt gatecrasher yanks it away. Unluckily, she prepares to beat him into furry blue chunklets on the ground. Luckily...

Brian has finally gotten his shit together to save the day.. for all of a panel…

While Brian is fighting who or whatever that is Rachel and Kitty try to get into things but are blindsided by ringtoss and joyboy whose powers well...

Yeah while ringtoss, if still weird isn’t TOO out of the ordinary for Marvel, Joyboy seems like he’s some sorta lost Jojo’s bizarre adventure stand. It’s also another reason to love the technet as again, their powers are just so fucking creative and weird. But that’s also what makes them such a threat: Their powers aren’t what most heroes usually deal with, and thus they have the element of surprise, helped by the fact their all from separate dimensions, meaning even in space, where their likely more ready for nonsense, they still have the upper hand by being races most space peeps aren’t ready for. Speaking of not ready,w ehave two last members to cover...

They speak for themselves, and while they do so Brian tries to rescue Meggan but is stopped by scatterbrain. Nightcrawler notices their asses are getting kicked and figures out WHY: The Warwolves and The Technet are teams. They work together regularly. Excalibur at this point is three former teammates in a disorienting situation and two british persons they just met. And if they don’t’ start working together they aren’t going to last. So Nightcrawler decides to fix that by knocking a warwolf into Ringtoss, who then collapses into waxwork whose touch takes out both and leaves Rachel free. Rachel quickly takes out Joyboy and with him out of the way, Kitty and Kurt can focus on Gatecrasher:

And with that Gatecrasher knows when to fold em and teleports the team away to fight another day, while the Warwolves slinked off in the confusion. Both will be back, obviously, but for now our heroes have one, Brian and Meggan make up and make out, and with the chaos settled Kitty, Rachel and Kurt have a tearful reunion.

Our heroes celebrate with a campfire and memories of their fallen comrades, with Rachel admitting she’s not sure what’s real or not after her experiences with Mojo. Brian prepares to leave and take care of the Warwolves himself.. but Rachel objects. The three others don’t have lives to return to, and just because the X-Men are gone dosent’ mean Xaviers dream should die out, likening them to the symbol of King Arthurs sword Excalibur. Kitty and Kurt start to agree, pointing out their dream taught them that if theirs a vacuum left in the X-Men’s legacy, someone will use it for their own ends. Rachel affirms her reasons for staying as a team, saying she’s tired of running: She’s done so all her live and she wants to , for once, stand for something. Meggan, having had similar problems in the past, agrees with her and the rest of the crew quickly come on board and thus we close on this image as a new team, and a new legacy, is forged: Excalibur is born.

Final Thoughts: The Sword is Forged is an utter classic and a great way to start things off. Our heroes are established, Rachel, who I felt was a bit thrown around by the plot during her time on the X-Men, is fleshed out a bit more and given purpose while Brian and Meggan are decently introduced to the audience. My only real complaints is that Davis and Claremont sometimes forget that American audiences won’t know who half these people are and while they introduce the Technet and Saturnyne well enough, they still never backtrack to explain them better later and what history I DID get I had to dig up for myself online. That aside the story, while having a lot of angst, is well done and has a good flow to it and ends on a high note, the characters are likeable enough, the villains are all creative though the Warwolves feel slight next to the Technet and will get fleshed out a bit more in the series proper. And of course I’d be a moron if I didn’t compliment Alan Davis wonderful art, which captures the whimsical tone well, the emotion in certain scenes perfectly and holds up beautifully years later. Overall The Sword is Forged is a great team origin story and if you liked what you saw here I’d recommend checking it out. Next time, hopefully tonight, we finally get to to the new Excalibur as Brian and his sister and thrust into the shit and a new Captain Britain is born. Until then, courage.

#analysis of x #excalibur #captain britan #meggan #nightcrawler #kitty pryde #rachel summers #the technet #gatecrasher #warwolves #mojoworld #x-men #chris claremont #alan davis #dawn of x

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klaussstilinski · 5 years ago

Text

Chapter 4

An: I was slipping plain and simple. I truly hope you enjoy this chapter. Please leave your feedback, all is welcome. Sorry for the long wait but another chapter is coming Thursday!!

Disclaimer: DON’T OWN ANYTHING ABOUT ON MY BLOCK, JUST MY CHARACTERS DAISY, JACKIE, AND MADELINE.

You ever get that feeling like your whole world is falling apart and then boom something exciting happens and everything is fine in the moment? If so, well, congratulations you’re human, and you’re not the only one with those feelings. When your world Is falling apart you have this crushing feeling in your chest; like there’s an elephant sitting there just waiting for you to stop breathing. Although it feels like your heart is beating faster and is going to beat out of your chest cavity it’s actually all in your head, that’s called panic. Your heart rate is picking up because of your fear of death. Then all of a sudden, your lungs start expanding like a balloon when someone starts blowing warm air into it. That crushing feeling is finally lifted off your chest and you can take a gulp of fresh air. That. I wanted that. As I'm sitting on my warm chocolate brown recliner couch, I wipe my eyes as I realize that the meeting with Oscar didn’t go as I had planned, or even hoped for. It was so much worse, and to be honest I don’t know how I'm going to face him or the kids for a while. ~THAT MORNING~ I wake before my alarm clock starts going off. Excitedly I get up to start my morning routine; hair up, brush teeth, wash face, moisturizer, pull hair down just so I can put 2 french braids in and dance my way to my closet to pick out a semi-comfortable outfit. Boyfriend jeans, a basic grey V-neck tee and a black and an old black and grey plaid shirt matched with some white vans. Smirking I all but skip to the white nightstand, unplug my phone, grab my necessities and walk to the wooden front door, set the alarm and walk to the car. Nothing is going to wipe this big smile off my face. That is until I walk into the back door of the bakery. “Daisy! Oh, thank god you’re here. I need you to pick up Jackie’s shift, she came down with the flu.” Maddy gagged, “It was real nasty! She facetimed me this morning, her nose was so red and her eyes were so puffy. OH and her voice was basically gone.”

“That’s fine, bu-but um wasn’t she trying to finish some cupcakes for a 8 year old's birthday party?” I asked swallowing hard.

“Yeah, so she finished half of the order, which was 50 cupcakes, but the other half of the order was the 2-tier cake.”

“I-I didn’t know about the cake. When is the deadline?”

“Sunday...but like I said the cupcakes are done!” She quickly adds when I look at her as my jaw hits the floor.

“Maddy! Today is friday, just please tell me she already has the framing of the cake.”

Walking to the fridge she opens the doors with a grand gesture. “She actually does, and she has base coating done.” Breathing a sigh of relief, I put my belongings away, put on my apron, wash my hands, and get started making the fondant for the marvel birthday cake. By the time I get finished covering the cake with the fondant, it was already 12. Short day my ass. Jackie owes me big time.

~4 THAT EVENING~

R- 3:13 pm: Daisy raincheck on tonight's meetup!!

R- 3:17 pm: You know you could at least text me back...

R- 3:19 pm: Okay so I know you got this message; it says it was delivered

M- 3:25 pm: DAISY! The boys, mainly Ruby, wants to reschedule. Call me as soon as you get this!!!

M- 3:40 pm: Why haven’t you called? Are you hurt?

J- 4:01 pm: Just to formally update you woman, we can’t make it to the meetup tonight...

Well for once I'm glad my phone was on silent. Hanging my apron, I clock-out and quickly head out the door putting my phone up to my ear.

“Hey, sorry I had to cover Jackie’s shift at work. I saw y’all couldn’t make it to the meeting tonight but why did you need me to call you?” I ask as soon as Monse picks up.

“You’re fine, yeah something about Ruby needing to move his things into his room with his abuela. But I actually need to talk to you. It’s really important.”

“Talk, I'm driving!”

“I think I might have feelings for Cesar.”

“Um yeah I know, I think we all know at this point.”

“But he’s pressuring me to tell everyone. He I feel like he wants to stake a claim, or something.”

“Are you home? I’m on the way, we’re going to my house to talk.”

“Yes, how far are you?”

“About 10 minutes away, be ready!” I reply hanging up the phone. Arriving I blow the once before she comes running out the front door and quickly jumping into the car.

“I didn’t know you had a record player.” Monse yells through the house.

“It was a gift from grandma, along with all of her old vinyls.” Picking up a Nat King Cole record I turn it over to show her the vintage vinyl.

“She was into Jazz?”

“Stop beating around the bush. What’s going on with you and Cesar?” Glancing at the clock, it’s already after 5.

“So, we’ve been seeing each other since I came back from camp and-”

“Having sex.” I interrupt as I sit down beside her on the couch.

“W-what?” She stutters looking at me with wide eyes.

“Monse, I'm not dumb I know y’all are having sex. Do I approve? Hell no. Do I wish you would have waited? Hell yeah. But hey,” I turn and look her in the eyes. “I’m not disappointed in you Monse. I’m not judging you either because there are worse things you could be doing. But just a 1 question, are you using protection?”

“Yeah...” But she’s looking everywhere but at me.

“Monse?”

“We’re only using condoms, but not all the time.”

“What?” I screech.

“Dad has never talked to me about birth control or even sex. I’m not even sure if I should talk to him about it. Wouldn’t that be weird?” Her round cheeks turn slightly red, reminding me of the time mama first told me about sex and I got so embarrassed.

“Well since you already technically know about sex, I'll let you know right now that condoms are good birth control but they aren't 100 percent effective. That’s why sometimes it is best to be on some kind of birth control yourself, not saying you have to though. There’s the pill, IUD, the shot, the patch, implant, ring, sponge, and so many-”

“Okay I get it!” Monse yells cutting me off. “There are many types of birth control, but um this isn’t why I wanted to talk you. I’m afraid if we say something it’ll break up the crew.”

Laughter bubbles up my throat and without warning it tumbles out. I stop when I see Monse grinding her teeth.

“See this is why I was afraid to tell you!”

“I thought you were joking, Monse you’re afraid of what the boys will say. The same two boys who are most likely jerking off to magazines or porn?”

“Eww I totally didn’t need to hear that.” Shuddering she jumps up and starts pacing the living room. “I just don’t want things to change between us.”

“Things are going to change, you’re growing up. Everyone changes Monse, you can't stop that. But if they don’t support you in this decision then screw them. Real friends support you in anything and any situation. From what I understand they love you both, right?”

“Right!”

“Okay then I have no doubt in my mind that those boys will accept you two. Maybe you’re just scared of your feelings for him.” She went to interrupt me but instead her stomach growling cuts her short. “I know you Monse, you’re just scared and nervous, which is normal. But maybe you should give it a try with you and Cesar just to see how things will work out. But for right now let's get some food in you!”

“Good idea.” She says chewing on her nails while walking to the kitchen with me following close behind.

Frozen pizza and tater tots were definitely a win tonight. Not the healthiest but who eats healthy 24/7 anyways.

“So, dad is picking me up. He should be here really soon” She says as we’re watching tv after dinner.

“Oh, when did he get back in town?”

“Yesterday, he said something about the two of you not really talking right now.”

“Yeah just somethings I guess we need to talk about.” I shrug not really caring to have this conversation with her.

“That bad?”

“Not really, I just don’t agree with everything he does.” Lights shine through the living room curtain. “Well I guess he’s here, come on I'll walk you to the door.” Heading towards the door she stops to ask me a question.

“Did you use birth control with Spooky?” Laughing I push her towards the door.

“Not at first no, but eventually I started taking the pill, which by the way there’s different kinds of.” Opening the door, I turn to her to give her a hug just to see her face frown with confusion.

“What are you doing here?” Turning around I come face to face with the devil himself.

“Hello to you to.” Oscar announces looking at me the whole time. 30 seconds go by before another car pulls into the driveway.

“Well there's my ride, I'll call you later Daisy, love you!” Monse yells running down the steps in towards dads car.

“Why are you here? It’s not even 8 yet.”

“Thought I'd surprise you; we need to talk.” He walks by me as if I wasn’t blocking his way in.

“Um, excuse me I didn’t invite you in!” I follow him once I close the door. “You can’t just walk into my house uninvited.” Laughing he sits down and leans back stretching his legs and arms.

“Come sit,” he pats the cushion beside him. I choose the other end of the couch. 10 minutes go by before I decide the silence begins to get to me.

“What did you want to talk about?” How awkward.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” He locks his jaw in place.

“What are you talking about?”

“Don't play stupid with me.” Playing stupid? No, I'm actually stupid because I have no clue what the hell he’s talking about.

“Honestly have no clue what you’re talking about Oscar.”

“The baby...” It gets eerily quiet. My body runs cold, it feels like my body turns to stone.

“Got nothing to say now huh?” Hanging my head, I lock my fingers together in my lap.

“I did...I-I came to you and told you.” Glancing up at him, I see him look at me with disgust in his eyes.

“You didn’t tell me that you got an abortion.” His voice gets deep and raspy.

“No, who told you that?”

“That’s not important, you were my girl. You come to me about these things not-”

“How was I supposed to do that when you were behind bars? Huh?” My voice gets louder and louder. “I was 15 and scared Oscar. You weren’t here to help.”

“I would've been if you just told me from the beginning.” His neck is turning red from all the straining and yelling he's doing.

“You know that wouldn’t have stopped you from doing what you did!”

“How do you know?” He laughs, but it wasn’t one filled with humor, no, it was filled with sarcasm. “I would’ve done anything for you.”

“You told me to leave and build a life for myself.” I try to change to direction to conversation.

“That doesn’t mean leaving town, and getting an abortion.”

“Stop saying that, I didn’t get an abortion. Why do you keep saying that?”

“Why won’t you tell me what really happened? I want to believe you, but since you won’t tell me what happened I can only believe what other people tell me.” Was his smart ass response.

“Why can’t you just believe what I’m telling you and leave it at that?”

“Because it was my child!” He yelled.

“It was my child too.” I scream back officially breaking down in tears. “I lost the baby…” I manage to say as I’m trying to breathe through my soon to be panic attack.

Silence.

I guess he didn’t expect that. When you’ve been told one thing for years, a lie, and then hear another thing that might be just as worse as the lie, I guess it would render you silent.

“I was consistently worried about you, me, the baby, what my mom would think, and so stressed out. God I was so stressed, that before I knew it I had lost the baby. I was only 11 weeks along” Wiping my eyes I get up just to slowly pace the floor. “Please…say something.”

“Do you blame me?” Looking up at me, we lock eyes as so stop and face jinx

“No, I never would. The doctor said it happens often.”

“Did you believe them? That it happens often?” He whispered.

“No…it was my fault. I knew I shouldn’t have been that stressed but instead I still decided to take on everyone’s problems and my own.”

“You should’ve told me. You were mine, the baby was mine.” With his head hanging between his broad shoulders he starts running his fingers through his hair. “Had everything planned and written down in there. I was going to behave and get out early. Come home to you and our child. Get a job, buy a home, and have more children. Build a better life for our family. That’s what I wanted.”

“Im so so sorry Oscar!” Closing my eyes as tears run down my cheeks.

“That’s what kept me alive in there. Knowing I had you and our blessing to come home to. Then that all came crashing down when I found out the truth, well what I thought was the truth.” I stayed quite to let him get what he needed off his chest. “I don’t blame you, you shouldn’t have had to worry about me, I put you in that situation. For that I’m truly sorry Daisy.”

“Yo-you don’t owe me an apology.” I know my under eyes had to be an angry red from all the wiping and rubbing.

“I do, because no matter how mad I am I’m still in love with you.” I can’t move, I think I’ve stopped breathing too. “I’ve tried to stop, god I’ve tried. But I know where my heart is and who it belongs to.”

“You don’t mean that, you’re just upset Oscar.” Whimpering I sit down beside him.

“I mean everything I just said. But it’s because I love you that I can’t love you.”

“What? I’m confused. You love me, but you can’t love me?”

“That would put a target on you. Being my girl in the streets would put you and everyone you love in danger. I can’t have that, I would kill everyone for even looking at you the wrong way.” Oscar explains himself.

“I’ve dated you before, I know what it’s like.”

“But things have changed, I’m more powerful than I was before. I won’t put you in danger again, end of story.” He gets up and starts heading for the door. Jumping up I chase after him.

“You can’t just tell me you love me then walk out the door Oscar. That’s not fair. You’ve done this to me before and it left me in pieces last time.” I grab his arm to stop him from walking. “Please just talk to me more before you just close the book on us.”

“Goodnight Daisy, I’ll see you around.” He pulls his arm from my hands and locks the bottom lock before heading out the door. A loud sob comes from somewhere in the room and it’s once I collapse in the chair when I realize that the sound came from me.

~THE PRESENT~

As I’m wiping the tears from my face I decided here and now that this won’t be the end of us. He might’ve walked out but I refuse to just give up on him so easily. Then that’s when it hits me. All this time I’ve been running away from my feelings for him. Everything is so clear.

I’m still fucking in love Oscar Diaz.

My phone ringing brings me out my trance. Running to the kitchen I find the phone on the kitchen table and as soon as I seen the name something else comes to realization within these last 5 minutes. Only 2 people knew of me losing the baby. I hit decline just for the person to pick call right back. I have to options, ignore them and turn my phone off or answer them and confront them of their disgrace and lies. I hate confrontation so option number one sounds really nice right now. Too late!

“Why would you lie to Oscar and tell him that I had an abortion?” I spit in the phone.

“Daisy baby...”

TAG: @mbaku-babygirl @izraahh1 @shesbriaanayy @aka-eb @yxseminx

#on my block #oscar diaz #spooky #omb #monse finnie #cesar diaz #jamal turner #ruby martinez #oscar diaz x oc #spooky x oc #spooky fanfic #oscar diaz fanfic #on my block fanfiction

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leelee10898 · 6 years ago

Text

The great escape

This is from the Cordonians gone wild AU, a collaborative effort by @ao719, @speedyoperarascalparty, @cocomaxley, @riseandshinelittleblossom and myself. You can find other adventures HERE

Pairings: Leo x Alicia, Liam x Anitah

Rating: Mature. Erotic content inside.

"I don't think I can take another tea party, or graden party, or whatever fucking party comes next." Alicia groaned as she tossed herself onto the couch in Leo's quaters. "Seriously Leo. How many parties does one need during an engagement?" Leo chuckled as he leaned down "we sneak away often." His hot breath on her neck. She sat up a smile on her face "we do, yes. I just, I need to get away from all of this" she waved her hands around the room "just for a little while." "Well, then I guess we are sneaking out." Leo grinned.

"Shit." Alicia turned. "Ahh hey Nitah, we're umm, going for a drive?" Anitah stood there arms crossed, it was clear she didnt buy it. "Was that a question or a statement? Because you are a terrible Liar." She snorted. Her eyes went wide taking in the way Alicia was dressed. A pair of tight distressed Jeans and an equally tight tank top, her hair in soft beach waves. Leo dressed down in a jeans and a button up. "You two are going out! Im going."

"Liam will flip if he finds out." Leo sighed. "Just leave him to me, seriously I cant take another garden party. I need to get hammered. Just give me 10 minutes." She turned on her heels and took off towards her room. She returned a few minutes later, changed her clothes and off they went.

They walked into the bar and found a booth in the corner, Leo went to get them some drinks. "Liam is going to flip out when he finds out we snuck out." Alicia giggled. "He will, but, I like when hes Mad." Anitah winked.

Leo returned with the drinks and a few shots. "I say we play a drinking game, it'll be fun." Alicia grinned. "Ok, what kind of drinking game are you thinking love?" "Never have I ever." Anitah pipped up. "Yes! I say the first 2 questions we take a sip, but very 4 questions we take a shot." Alicia smirked at Anitah, Anitah nodded and fired off the first question. "Never have I ever... snuck out of a palace." They groaned and took a drink. "Never have I ever snuck into my house Naked." All three took a drink. Leo looked at the girls "skinny dipping in the Anitahs neighbor's pool, truth or dare, they stole our clothes." Alicia giggled. "My turn." Leo gave that sly smirk. "Never have I ever had sex with someone in this room." Both Alicia and him took a drink "wait a minute, thats not fair.. and I do believe thats a shot for you two." Anitah pushed the shot glasses towards them. They took the shot and the fired off a few more questions. "Never have I ever smoked pot." All three drank. "Never ever have I fell sleep during sex." The words were starting to get mixed up. Leo took a shot. And the girls laughed. "Never have I ever kissed my bestest friend." Anitah giggled as the two took a drink. Leos eyes perked up "really?" "Spin the bottle in ummm 11th grade? 9th grade?" Alicia laughed as Anitah shook her head. "Never have I ever had sex in the hedge maze." Alicia spat out. Anitah guzzled her drink and took a shot. Leo took a drink as well and leaned in towards Alicia. "You didn't drink, I'll make sure to change that tonight." Alicia's lips crashed down on his. Anitah banged her hand on the table. "Ok ok enough you two. "Never have I ever had sex in a bathroom stahl." Anitah grinned at Alicia, Alicia rolled her eyes and both Leo and Alicia drank. "Gotta love New York." Leo chuckled.

"Ok ok newgame. Gimme your phones." Alicia and Leo handed their phones to Anitah and she placed them in the middle of the table. "Ok we each grab a phone, and create a text to any person in their contacts. The owner has to make a choice do they take a shot or do they allow the person to send said text without knowing what was written." They each reached for a phone Alicia grabbed Leos, Anitah grabbed Alicias and Leo grabbed Anitahs. Anitah drew up a text to Alicias ex Mark saying she (meaning Alicia) thought he had a pencil dick and she was screwing a literal prince. Alicia opened Leos contacts and found Madelines name. A wild grin spread across her face as she fired off a text. Leos opened up a text to his brother simply saying the word balls over and over again. "Ok I have Alicias phone. Do you let me send the text or take a shot?" Anitah waved the phone in the air. "Mmmm I love you, but I dont trust you Nitah. Im taking the shot." Anitah laughed. "I planned on telling mark you were screwing a prince and had a pencil dick." Alicia rolled her eyes "all true." She grinned batting her lashes at Leo. "Ok my turn, Leo.. text or shot?" Leo grabbed the shot glass gulping it down "go ahead and send the text Love." He winked as Alicia pressed send. "I told Madeline that you would be in the hedge maze later tonight." Alicia giggled. "Ok Anitah, drink or text?" Leo chuckled. "Yeah thats a shot, you'll probably send Liam a text and I do NOT need him finding out im here." Leo grinned as he handed her back the phone. Anitah grabbed the phone, not realizing her finger accidentally pressed send.

They made their way to the dance floor. Anitah and Alicia dancing around while Leo hung back at the bar.

Back at the palace Liams phone pinged on the desk in front of him. He had some paperwork that needed to be dealt with, so Anitah went to their quaters while he went to work. He looked at his phone, A message from Anitah continuously repeating balls. "What the hell?" He replied, but got no response. He decided to check their quaters to ask her what the text was all about, but once he got there Anitah was no where to be found. "Bastien, I need you to ping Anitahs cell phone, it seems she has disappeared." A few minutes later Bastien appeared. "I have a location."

Meanwhile at the bar Anitah had made friends with some locals and told them her name was Pam. When she was told she looked like the future queen to be she responded by saying "I get that all the time."

Leo and Alicia were on the dance floor trapped in a heated make out session. Anitah spotted Bastien out of the the corner of her eye and made a dash to the dance floor. "Ok you two, we've been made, we need to make a quick exit."

Alicia laughed very loudly "we've been made? You sound like were on some ops mission and our covers been blown."

"It has, now get down and crawl with me. Bastien has found us." Anitah started to army crawl across the floor when she stopped in front of a familiar pair of shoes. "Crawling somewhere, my love?" She let out a low groan "craaaaaaap." She looked up to see Liam hovering over her. "Ahhh Hi Liam." He reachex down helping her up, Leo and Alicia approached. Liam turned to face his brother "I cant believe you would sneak the future queen out of the palace, do you know the scandal it could have caused?"

Alicia slapped Leo on the chest "yeah Leo, what were you thinking?" He gave her a confused look, before looking back at Anitah who was wearing a pleading look. "Ah yeah, sorry Li, I dont know what I was thinking." He rubbed the back of his neck. "Is this the first time you've done this my love?" He questioned Anitah as they made their way to the bar so Liam could get a drink before they left. "Ahh huh, sure yup."

The bar tender approached. "The usual?" Alicia and Anitahs shoulders dropped. Liam gave the bar tender a pointed look "so you know these two?" "Alicia and Pam? Sure they come in all the time..." he grinned "oh Hey Leo." He waved as he walked away. "fuck you Doug." Alicia yelled. "One time you say, Pam?" Liam arched his brow. "Ok so more then once, but hey I used an alias." Anitah giggled.

Liam decided to stay and have some drinks. They got completely wasted and Bastien had to have Brad help carry Liam to the car. Bastien drove Leos car while Brad drove the four back in the SUV.

Anitah slid up to the front of the car "Hey Brad, you know you have really nice hair." She started running her fingers through his hair. "Ah ah tha thank you miss." Brad stammered Alicia slid up next Anitah tangling her fingers through his hair "Oh you really do, and cute at that." "Alicia, come here." Leo called, but was ignored. "Do you work out Brad? Because your ripped." Anitah grabbed his muscular arm. "I ah, I do." Brad gulped looking in the rearview mirror at the king, praying he did not kill him. "Alicia feel, hes so muscular." Alicia ran her hand across his chest. "Mm he is." She agreed. "Ok, that's enough down girls!" Leo grabbed onto Alicia's waist pulling her towards him. "Dont worry Leo, hes got nothing on you." Alicia whispered into his ear.

Anitah climbed into the back of the Suv with Liam. Flipping over the seat landing head first, she was wedged in between the seat and the floor. "Heeeelp, heeeelp." She yelled as her feet kicked in the air. Liam tried to help her up but ended up falling in between the seats himself. The two laughing hysterically as they pulled up to the palace, Bastien and Brad helping Liam and Anitah up and out of the car, and into their suit.

Leo pulled Alica through the palace to the garden, he lead her into the hedge maze. His hands gripping her waist pulling her into him. "I believe I made you a promise earlier." He growled into her ear as his fingers worked to remove her clothes, Alicia returned the favor removing his shirt, jeans and boxers. He pulled her onto the ground, climbing ontop of her, linging his thick long length up with her wanting center and plunged into her. "Fuck you feel amazing love." He moaned out. He settled onto his knees as he pulled her up, he set a slow rough pace. "Oh god, yes Leo." She moaned as he hit that spot, it didnt take long before she gave into her first release.

"Flip over baby, I'm not finished with you yet." He pulled her up on all fours as he sunk into her again. This time picking up the pace as he thrust into her at a vigorous speed. One hand gripped her hips while the other gripped her hair, allowing him to penetrate deeper into her core. "Oh fuck Leo, right there dont stop." She screamed.

As they became lost in the feeling of each other they heard a loud gasp. "Oh my god." They turned to find Madeline standing there mouth agape. Alicia giggled "I see you got my text, sorry Maddie Leos unavailable right now." Madeline huffed and turned and left as Leo continued thursting into Alicia with force "Fuck Alicia you feel so good. Come for me." He demanded as she felt her coil snap she came screaming his name. As they finished the stood and dressed, they walked hand in hand back into the palace towards Leos quaters. "Stay with me tonight?" Leo breathed into her neck. "Do I ever not?" She giggled as he pushed her against the door. "We should sneak out more often." He whispered as gis lips found hers in a heated kiss. "Round 2?" She purred. He gave her a sly grin "Until round 3 and 4." His lips found hers again as he opened the door slamming it behind them.

Tag list: @gardeningourmet @carabeth @bobasheebaby @scarlettedragon @annekebbphotography @speedyoperarascalparty @greyeyedsmile14 @stopforamoment @mind-reader1 @hopefulmoonobject @alicars @katurrade @indiacater @bella-ca @blznbaby @blackwidow2721 @liamxs-world @simsvetements @furiousherringoperatortoad @choicesfannatalie @crookedslimecreatorpasta @coldcollectornight08 @museofbooks @syltti78 @ao719 @3pawandme @blubutterflyy @itsstillnotwhatyouthink @liam-rhys-x-mc-x-constantine @riseandshinelittleblossom @wannabemc2 @gibbles82 @editboutique @lodberg @zaffrenotes @moneyfordiamonds @give-me-ernest-sinclaire @ooo-barff-ooo @tornbetween2loves @ownworldresident @perfectprofessorherokid

#cgw trr #cordonians gone wild #cordoniansgonewild #leo x alicia #liam x anitah #leo trr #trr au #trr fanfic #choices trr #trr #trr liam #squadgoals #squad trr

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onebadassunicorn · 7 years ago

Text

Three Days

Book: The Royal Romance

Rating: Teen

Pairings: Drake X MC

Words: ~2,400

Takes place after last chapter of TRR. For those of you who love Liam, please don’t hate me for this! I just envision Drake as being very passionate and protective over those he loves, to the point of giving up everything else for her…

It had been three days since he last saw her.

Three days since the Royal Guards drug her from the palace and put her on a plane back to New York City.

Three days since her world came crashing down around her and he was powerless to protect her.

Three days since her lips last touched his in a tender kiss that he would never forget.

Three days since he decided to leave the palace and vowed to never return.

For three days he drank himself into oblivion, trying to quell the seething anger that bubbled inside him and the despair he felt knowing he might never see her again. He felt he was slowly going insane, slipping deeper and deeper into the darkness that threatened to engulf him. Bottle after bottle, he tried to forget…

Forget the way her soft lips felt against his. Forget the way her smile made him feel giddy, almost as if he was drunk. Forget how her body felt pressed against his, how his hands felt in her hair. Forget the way she would moan his name as he kissed her again and again.

However, the recurring image of her panicked face, her emerald eyes wide with fear, kept flooding back to him and it was more than he could bear. He tried to grab her, but the Royal Guards would not let him through. He could see her reaching for him, but she was just out of his grasp. She didn’t look for Liam as she was being taken from the court…she looked for Him. She reached for Him. He tried to leave the palace that night to find her, but the guards would not allow anyone to leave. By the time he was able to depart the following morning, she was already hours away on a plane back to New York. The Royal Family had done everything to ensure every trace of her was gone. It was almost as if she never existed. Even the servants were instructed not to utter her name.

He had warned her about these people and how they are ruthless in their efforts to get what they want. He knew the Queen did not want a commoner from the U.S. marrying into the Royal Family and the smug look on her face as she forced Liam to choose Madeline was proof enought to Drake that she had orchestrated the whole thing. But in the end, they all turned their backs on her. They all stood there and watched as she struggled and tried to explain. They all failed her…Maxwell, Bertrand, Hana…himself. Even Liam, the one person who was supposed to love her and had the authority to put aside custom stood by idly and let the guards drag her out like she was some sort of criminal. He couldn’t protect her. He failed her…just like he failed Savannah.

Drake had tried to see Liam for the first two days following the scandal, but Liam would not see anyone. Once the obligatory photos of he and his future wife, Madeline, were taken by the press, he had shut himself away in his room. Drake knew Liam was distraught with his hand being forced to choose Madeline, but he never dreamt that his best friend would shut him out too. It was easy to forgive Liam for turning him away that same night, but each time he tried to see Liam in the days following, the angrier Drake became each time he was turned away.

Each minute that passed, his anger turned into a blind rage that even the strongest whiskey could not drown. As the fury took over his mind, his blood boiled and all rationale began to leave him. He wanted to make them all pay for how they hurt her, how they embarrassed her, and how they took her away from him. With his temper threatening to overtake him, he knew he had to put distance between himself and the palace.

On the night of the third day, he packed his suitcase with clothes and plenty of whiskey and headed to his father’s old hunting cabin a few miles away from the palace. He knew the cabin would bring him solitude and the comfort of familiar surroundings.

He had loved coming to his father’s cabin as a young boy and many summers were spent there with he and his father hunting and fishing in the lake outside the back of the cabin. The cabin was their refuge away from the nobles and their pretentious lifestyle…a place where they could be themselves without others watching their every move and silently judging them. He had hoped that returning back to the cabin would help to ground him as it always had before.

As he arrived at the cabin, the familiar sights, smells and sounds of his childhood flooded his senses… the smell of the pine trees that skirted the property, the crunch of the pine cones beneath his feet, the smell of the wood logs that made up the walls of the cabin, the sound of the rushing water in the creek that spilled into the lake. He felt a sudden longing to be that small boy again, planning the day’s adventures with his dad without a care in the world. He breathed a heavy sigh of relief as he pushed open the door to the cabin.

With the night air settling in, there was a cool breeze coming off the lake. It filled the cabin and he shivered as the draft touched his skin, sending goosebumps down his arms. He set his bag down next to the door and placed firewood he tookd from the log rack into the hearth.

Once the fire was burning in the fireplace, he sank into the couch with his favorite whiskey bottle in his hand. He opened the bottle and took a big gulp from it, the brown liquor going down this throat like water. As he took a second gulp and a third gulp, the white-hot anger began to leave his body and the dull ache began to set in. He pictured her face, her emerald orbs gazing at him when she had declared she wanted him. He heard her voice, calling his name and laughing at his snarky remarks. He felt her gentle hands on him, running across his the muscles in his abdomen and around the waistband of his jeans, making his stomach tighten at the thought of her touching him even lower. He smelled her perfume, the scent of her hair as he buried his face in it. If he closed his eyes, it was almost as if she were still there.

He wondered what she was doing right now. Was she back in her apartment? Was she out with her friends? Was she thinking about him that very second? Did she miss him as much as he missed her? Does she hurt too when she thinks of him? Does she know how much I love her?

He took a deep breath and turned the whiskey bottle up once more. Determined the make the ache subside, he drank from it until it gagged him. As he put the lid back on it, he laid down on the couch and let his mind succumb to the darkness.

On the fourth morning, Drake woke early as he usually did and headed out to the pier on the lake’s edge. As he stood on the pier, the sun began to peek over the horizon hesitantly at first, its rays stretching outward like small little fingers in the sky. The sunrises here were always breathtaking and he remembered waking up early with his dad on their trips here just to watch it. They would spend an hour on the pier taking in Mother Nature’s beauty in silence, shoulder to shoulder. It was one of his fondest memories of he and his dad, not doing anything…just being…together. He ran his fingers through his hair and was oddly surprised that he did not have a hangover, considering the amount of whiskey he had drank the night before. As the auburn rays of the sun beamed brighter and stretched like dozens of arms into the sky, he closed his eyes as the warmth seeped into his skin. His thoughts drifted again to Her and he knew he couldn’t continue like this anymore.

“Can we talk?” a quiet voice came from behind him, surprising him as he almost jumped off the pier and into the water.

“Christ, Liam” he startled, turning to look him. His eyes squinted as Liam came into focus. Drake was not surprised that he looked like hell. The scruff on his face was full, indicating that he more than likely had not shaved since the night of the coronation. His eyes were bloodshot and his clothes disheveled. “So NOW, you want to talk?” Drake said flatly as he turned back towards the lake.

“Yes” Liam responded quietly. “I’m sorry I turned you away. I just needed time.”

“Time?” Drake hissed and he spun back to face Liam. “Time for what, Liam?

“I needed time to think through all of this!” Liam exclaimed, angrily.

“What is there to think about, Liam?” Drake asked sarcastically as he stepped closer to him. “You know that those pictures were garbage. You know that Riley is not that kind of person.”

“You don’t think I know that? I know she would never do anything with Tariq!” Liam argued back, his eyes narrowing in irritation. “I loved her and I was ready to choose her!”

“You loved her…” Drake laughed mockingly, glaring back at Liam. “What do you really know about her, Liam?”

“I – “ Liam started, but fell silent.

“That’s what I thought.” Drake spat out sarcastically. “Did you know she lost her mother three years ago? Do you know how close they were? Did you know that her father left when she was only 4 years old and her mother raised her? Do you know that she originally wanted to be a marine biologist before her mother fell ill? Did you know she had to give up her dream after getting her degree? Did you know that she moved her mother up to New York so that she could receive care in one of the best hospitals on the Northeast coast and she took a job waitressing to make ends meet while looking after her mother? Did you know any of that?”

Liam shook his head as he lowered his gaze to his feet. “No, I didn’t know any of those things” he answered, sadly. “The little time I got to spend with her during the social season didn’t allow me the opportunity to know her like that.”

Drake sighed as he looked at his best friend. “Then what did you talk about the little time you spent with her?”

Liam looked up at him, his shoulders slumped. “We mainly talked about my family, the traditions and history of Cordonia, the noble families of the court…our conversations always centered around those things. I just wanted to make her comfortable in my world.” he whispered. “I never really asked about her life… but I did love her.”

“And you fed her to the wolves.” Drake countered, his voice devoid of sympathy. “You didn’t really love her, Liam. You loved the idea of her… everything she represented. You loved the freedom she has and how she follows her heart. You love how she is unapologetically herself and doesn’t care whether any nobles accept her or not. You love how she lives life to its fullest each and every day. You love her because she lives a life you want.”

“You of all people know that I am a servant to my crown!” Liam yelled in exasperation.

“Yes…and yet you are the person with the power here. You are the one person that could protect her here in Cordonia. You could have told the guards to stop and postponed the coronation at that point. You could have investigated before making any decision as to who you would choose. You could have done the right thing and the people would have understood because they LOVE you. They have always supported you and they always will. They know you will be a great king. Yet, you let them haul her off like she was a criminal. You let them humiliate her and get rid of her the first chance they got, like she was some piece of trash. You wouldn’t even fight for her.” Drake’s fists clenched at his sides as his blood began to boil.

“Drake – “ Liam contradicted, “I will not yield from my duties that the crown demands of me. I can’t. Not after Leo abdicated.” He sighed heavily as he crossed his arms against his chest.

Drake narrowed his eyes at Liam. “Then you don’t deserve her.” He stalked angrily past Liam on the pier, heading towards the cabin.

“Drake!” Liam exclaimed, as he follows Drake to the cabin.

Drake kicked open the door to the cabin and grabbed his bag he had deposited by the front door the night before. He picked up the keys to his car on a small wooden table next to the door and slammed the door behind him. He walked over to the driver’s side of the car and opened the door, throwing his bag in the back seat.

“Drake, please…let’s finish talking this through.” Liam pleaded with his best friend, the desperation in his voice.

“There is nothing else to say, Liam. You will marry Madeline and I will have an even smaller role in your life from this moment forward” Drake said hollowly, meeting Liam’s eyes. “I cannot live here anymore. The one woman I have loved more than anything other than my family was hauled away from here three nights ago.”

This was definitely not how he pictured telling his best friend that he had fallen for his girl, but after everything that has happened, it seemed pointless to hold it back any longer. He needed her. He missed her. He loved her. And he knew she loved him. The thought of her not being in his life anymore was unimaginable and he knew there was only one thing to do.

Liam’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. Taken aback by Drake’s declaration, and at a loss for words, he could only ask “Where will you go?”

“To find her.” Drake answered, matter of fact. “Because unlike the nobles in this country, I fight for who I love.” He slid into the driver’s seat, started the car and pulled away…never looking back in his rear view mirror.

To be continued…

#trr #drake x mc #liamshipperspleasedonthateme #choices fanfiction

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blazerina · 7 years ago

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I Won’t (TRR - Madeline)

“I Won’t” (TRR – Madeline)

Summary: An intimate look and insight into Madeline’s thoughts and feelings as she goes through this process for the 2nd time.

Author’s Note: This may be a piece based on very unpopular opinion that Madeline is tough, strong and has a lot more to her than others may realize. It also touches on some brief history of her relationship with Leo. I love how this piece turned out and makes me love Madeline even more! She’s such a deep character and while her methods are unconventional, I really do appreciate her determination to go after what she wants.

This is my entry for Choices Creates 29 – Villian theme #ChoicesCreates. Thank you to @holly-park and @moonandstarscollide for hosting this week. What a great theme! :)

Rating: T

—

“Goodnight.” Madeline echoed to Liam as she slid inside her bedroom, closing the door quickly. She turned around, and kicked off her heels, feeling instant relief. With a heavy sigh, she rested her full body against the door, allowing the sturdy entrance to bear most of her weight. Remaining perfectly still and drinking in the silence that surrounded her, she inhaled slowly and exhaled through her mouth, closing her eyes.

After a few moments, her silk dress proved to be slippery as she sunk down to the floor, sliding alongside the door and extending her legs out in front of her. She opened her eyes and reached her hand up above her head, gliding the bolt across the threshold of the door to confirm it was indeed locked. She replayed the evening’s events over and over again in her mind – the voices of the evening, including her own, refused to be quiet inside of her head.

Isn’t Liam wonderful? Cordonia is truly in good hands. I couldn’t be happier to be the future qu...

Her subconscious wouldn’t even let her finish the thought.

“You’ll never be queen, Madeline. Stop lying to yourself.” She said aloud to the empty room.

Staring at her toes, Madeline frowned. The polish on her nails was starting to chip. She examined her feet and noted a few scaly, rough patches on her heels. Making a disgusted face, she then moved her attention toward her hands. Inspecting her fingers, she observed that these nails, too, needed attention. Anxiously, she began to bite at a small piece of skin that had started to form alongside her left thumbnail. Pulling her finger away from her mouth, she stared once again at her hand, and let her eyes linger on the finger next to her pinky. Her ring finger.

Running her other fingers over the space where an engagement ring would typically be, she closed her eyes again and let her hands fall to her lap as she leaned her head back against the door, one more time.

This is stupid.

She pulled herself up on her knees, then on all fours. She crawled to where her heels had landed when she kicked off her shoes, and picked them up in her hands, before heaving herself up into an upright position.

Madeline walked to the bathroom and turned on the shower. She unzipped her dress herself; she had created an unconventional method of pulling one arm out of the dress and up over her head in order to successfully get herself out of her typical uniform these days. The dress fell immediately to her feet in a pool of green satin.

Without thinking, she reached into the large cosmetic bag on the counter and pulled out a rubber band for her hair. Lifting her blonde locks to the top of her head, she twisted and pulled her hair through the tie until it was off her neck.

Taking one last glance in the mirror, she realized she needed to remove her jewelry. She pulled out her earrings and unclasped her pearl necklace. Gazing at the necklace she held in her hands, she exhaled sharply, placing it next to the sink, and stepped into the shower.

Madeline had always enjoyed scalding hot showers. Growing up, her mother would always be alarmed at the redness of her skin when left the bathroom after bathing. Her family was astonished at the amount of heat her body seemed to be able to handle. “Careful, Mads, that’s hot!” was never really considered a warning to her. She could withstand, it seemed, temperatures and situations that were well beyond what others were able to tolerate. Bare feet on scorching concrete. Jeans fresh out of the dryer that burned her legs when she put them on. Scalding tea poured out of the boiling pot. Showers with the water turned all the way on “hot,” that turned the rest of the bathroom into a muggy, humid sauna.

As the water ran over her tired, aching body, her thoughts turned to her current circumstances. Once again, she found herself in a situation that any other woman would not be able to handle. A situation that would cause a typical person to crumble. But she was better, stronger and more capable than a typical person. This was not her first, but her second time to deal with the selection season; the Cordonian royal family; the fellow suitors; the press; the questions; the gossip; the sneers.

She never thought she’d ever find herself in this situation again, but it had been her life for so long at this point, she wasn’t sure she knew how to function in any other kind of reality. The social gatherings, the positioning, the posturing of herself next to or near the Queen at all times – she didn’t even have to think about it anymore. Like a robot being controlled and following commands from a distance, she would flit about from person to person, table to table, with a smile, a wave, a disapproving look to the other ladies, and a nod from Liam, who was across the room.

I know what I have to do. Who I have to see. What I have to say. Where I have to go. But it’s only for a little while. Soon it will be all over. Again. And then what?

As the warm water rushed over her face, she wiped her eyes and turned off the faucet. After drying off with a towel, she slipped into a light pink terrycloth robe and some light blue pajama pants. She put lotion on her face and leaned in closer to the mirror, noticing a few very small wrinkles around her eyes and her lips. Using her fingers she pulled her skin taught, and fake-smiled into the looking glass, not pleased with what she saw.

This is the real me. No make up. No lies. Nothing fake. Flaws and all – here I am.

She dropped her hands to rest on the counter and stared at her reflection, looking into her own eyes. She didn’t recognize herself anymore. Her eyes were empty. Her cheeks pale. Her lips – untouched and slightly chapped.

What am I doing? Why am I here when I know this isn’t going to end the way I want it to?

Madeline clenched her hands into fists out of frustration and leaned over the sink, taking a deep breath. She picked up the pearl necklace she had removed before her shower and took it with her to the bedroom. It was getting late and she knew the morning would be coming too soon. Opening up a jewelry box, she placed the necklace inside and slowly closed the lid.

Glancing at a clock on the wall, she observed the time, and walked over to a small writing desk in the corner of the room. Her large purse hung on the shoulder of the desk chair, and she reached into it to retrieve a black leather journal that had her name embossed in the lower-right corner, imprinted in gold leaf. She pulled out the chair and sat cross-legged as she opened the journal and then fished around in the same bag, for a pen.

As she pulled a pen out of her bag, she accidentally also pulled out a small piece of light yellow paper folded up into a small square. She swallowed hard once she realized what it was, and despite her better judgment, unfolded the paper and read it quickly for at least the hundredth time:

My dearest Madeline – when I saw this pearl necklace I immediately thought of you. Classic. Beautiful. Strong. Steadfast. Known for being regal and reliable. You are the epitome of everything I’ve ever wanted and everything Cordonia has ever needed. This is for you, as a reminder of my love and all that you are destined to bring our beautiful country. Forever yours, Leo

Without even looking, she folded the note back up, into the exact same creases, just the way she found it. She placed the note back inside the bag, then paused a moment, collecting herself.

Slowly, she picked up the pen, beginning a new entry in her well-worn journal. Immediately, she began to write, and write, and write. Once she started, she couldn’t stop. The words kept flowing; her heart was being emptied onto the paper, the ink from her pen representing the thoughts and feelings that ravaged her soul day and night.

There’s nothing you can do to hurt me anymore than I’ve already been hurt by you and your rules, your tradition, your culture. You are the very reason I lost the only love I’ve ever known, and now I’m vying for a chance to serve you? To be your queen? I don’t even really want this.

You look at me as if I have no clue what I’m getting myself into. Do you not remember that I’ve been through all of this before? I’m not stupid – I know you’re not in love with me. The whole country – the whole world – knows it. The mystery woman will be back. You’ll run to her. You may even leave behind your opportunity to rule this kingdom…all for her.

I’m going to show you that you cannot get to me. I am too strong to break. You will not win. I’m not going to let you see how much you hurt me when you look at her, talk about her, and whisper to your friends about meeting up with her. Do you honestly think I don’t know?

I know exactly what you’re doing and what’s going on here. You don’t even want to be close to me, or know me, or have anything to do with me beyond the photo ops, the royal engagement interviews and our scheduled tour stops.

I’ve been hurt too much by all of this to let it wound me again. I have scars and memories from the first time with Leo that will never let me forget what it’s like to “be a part” of this Cordonian family. Each time I’m betrayed by you, the easier it is to move on. I cry less. I move on faster. I know you don’t love me. I know I won’t be queen and that our relationship, our future together, doesn’t stand a chance.

But if you think I’m going to stay by your side and silently watch you walk away from me, you are wrong. Your brother may have never wanted to be king, Liam, but he did want me (at least at one time in his life). I’m smart and I learn quickly. I refuse to make the same mistake twice.

I didn’t fight for your brother. I didn’t beg him to stay. He ran away from the throne, and from the kingdom of Cordonia, like a coward. He gave up.

I won’t.

She slammed her pen down on the table and thumped the journal shut. Madeline’s heart was beating rapidly inside of her chest and her vision was starting to blur.

No! No!

She cried out as she rushed to the bathroom, looking for a tissue while tears began to fall from her eyes.

“Stop it! Stop it!” She yelled out, her hands beginning to shake while she pressed a tissue to her eyelids, trying her best to keep the tears from escaping.

Soon, she gave in to her emotions and standing in front of the mirror once again, she sobbed. Her body was racked with heart-breaking cries as her shoulders bobbed up and down. She gasped for breath while she wept, howling every now and then, no longer using the tissue, but letting the water from her eyes fall all over her face; down her cheeks, through her nose, dripping into the sink below her.

After a few long moments, full of emotion, she looked up into the mirror once again, glaring at her own reflection. The red splotchy cheeks. The streaks across her face from her eyes down to her chin. The pink, almost perfect circle forming at the tip of her nose.

Then, she noticed her eyes. No longer were they empty, but full of fire; passion; emotion. The whites of her eyes had turned a bright red, with the hazel flecks in her brown irises glistening like sparks of electricity.

As if something within her had snapped and turned her back into a completely put together woman of the court, she once again stood up straight, dried her face with the back of her bare hands and smiled, all without looking away from her own eyes in the mirror.

“Come on, Madeline. Pull yourself together.” She spoke slowly and eloquently, as if she was instructing one of her maids.

“A woman is like a tea bag, you know…” She trailed off, glancing at the counter, looking for her necklace.

She quickly walked back to the jewelry box where she had placed it earlier. Removing it from the box, she found a full-length mirror in the bedroom, next to the writing desk, where she watched herself put the necklace back on, clasping it delicately around her own neck.

Madeline cleared her throat, looking at herself once again, staring into her own eyes as she repeated, “A woman is like a tea bag.”

Glaring menacingly into the mirror, she moved closer to it and watched her face transition from a weak, fragile, injured girl into a determined, fierce and focused warrior.

“You never know how strong she is, until she’s in hot water.”

She took several deep breaths and calmed herself down, lowering her gaze from her own eyes in the mirror and realizing she was tired. Still in her robe, she climbed into her large, fluffy bed and sighed as the blankets enveloped her. Her fingers absentmindedly ran along the pearls of her necklace as she drifted off to sleep.

“I’ll run this country for you, Leo…” she mumbled as she drifted off to sleep. “…just the way you would have wanted…if you had…stayed…”

#choicescreates29 #choicescreates #choices stories you play #pixelberry choices #madeleine #TRR #mad madeleine #she DGAF #blazerina babbles

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biofunmy · 5 years ago

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Your Best Tips for a Better Uber or Lyft Trip

Who, in a million years, ever thought that the ridesharing idea would fly? You’re going to pay total strangers to drive you around in their own cars? Really now?

Well, yes. Services like Lyft and Uber may have decimated the taxi industry and clogged big-city streets with cars. But they also allow millions of drivers to work on their own schedules, permit millions of riders to save money, keep a lot of drunken drivers from taking the wheel, free up a lot of parking spaces, and give just about everyone an endless source of conversation starters.

Still, there are challenges for both riders and drivers: Finding each other, communicating with each other, coexisting with each other. That’s why, in the previous episode of “Crowdwise,” I invited you to share your tips for improving the ridesharing experience. Here’s what you came up with.

Better ways to summon your ride

Most people begin by opening the corresponding app (Lyft or Uber, for example). But Phoebe Mortensen noted that you can save time and money by starting in other apps.

Google Maps: On the Directions tab, where you see options like driving, public transport and walking, tap the ride-sharing icon: the microscopic man holding up his infinitesimal arm. “At that point, Google Maps shows you price and waiting-time comparisons of Lyft and Uber — information you can’t get in their own apps,” wrote Ms. Mortensen. Once you’ve chosen the service you want, hit Open App to complete the transaction.

Apple Siri/Google Assistant: On your phone, you can say, for example, “Hey Siri, get me a ride to 200 West 79th Street with Lyft” or “Hey Google, book an Uber to JFK Airport.” You’re asked to specify the details. Speaking your destination is always less finicky than typing it on glass.

Amazon Alexa/Google Home: If you have an Amazon Echo smart speaker, you can say “Alexa, ask Lyft to call a ride” or “Alexa, ask Uber to request a ride.” If your robo-assistant speaks Google instead, say “O.K. Google” instead of “Alexa.”

Pickups

Summoning a ride is easy. Finding your driver can be substantially trickier.

You get a license-plate number and car description; the driver gets a tiny photo of your head. If the neighborhood is busy, dark, or nondescript, that may not be enough.

If you’re smart, you’ll seek a safer spot. “Your pickup address does not have to be exactly where you’re standing,” driver Jeffrey Castro wrote. “Choose addresses where the driver can pull over and not block traffic. From a safety perspective, everyone benefits, and your neighbors will appreciate less honking.”

According to driver Tom Deehan (15,500 Lyft rides and counting), the walk-a-short-distance trick can also save you time and money. “At bar closing time, or after concerts and sporting events, everyone orders their Lyfts and Ubers from the same location, causing traffic jams. Walk a block or two away, and then request your ride. You’ll get picked up much faster and you’ll likely save money on surge pricing.”

Finally, often, the app plants your “pin” at the wrong location on the map in the driver’s map. Far better to enter your address manually — or, as Ray Roig noted, to use the name of a building or place of business. “Both Uber and Lyft are built on Google Maps, and the app will recognize the name.”

Safety

In my call for submissions, I requested tips for making ridesharing “smarter, more efficient, or more economical.” One reader noted sardonically that I must be a man, because I didn’t mention “safer.”

She’s right. Getting into a male stranger’s car alone can be frightening if you’re female, especially in the wake of Samantha Josephson’s death at the hands of a man she thought was her driver.

When your ride arrives, “ask the driver for the name of the passenger they are picking up. If it’s not your name, or she or he can’t say, do not get in,” wrote Mikki Ashe and, similarly, Carol Mitchell.

Salomé Mirigay shares every ride’s details with someone she trusts, using the “Share location” or “Share status” button that appears in the app after a driver has accepted your request. The recipient can then monitor her progress on a live, moving map. “It’s comforting that someone has your itinerary and driver’s information in case of emergency,” she noted.

Once you’re in the car, Gillian Horn advises, “sit directly behind the driver. That way, it’s harder for the driver to physically reach you.”

“That being said,” added Julia Butler, “I’ve learned that drivers can get just as nervous about picking up passengers as we may get about drivers. One said to me, ‘We drivers have to pass background checks — but I have no idea who is getting into my car.’ So, caution and empathy!”

Last safety tip: When you reach your destination, open the door on the curb side. “It’s amazing how many people get out of the car into traffic,” Teri Green observed.

Ratings

After each ride, the app asks you to rate your driver (1 to 5 stars). What you may not realize is that your driver also rates you. (To see your average Uber rating, open its main menu. To find out your Lyft rating, ask your driver, or contact the company.)

If there were a Rude Passenger Hall of Fame, no driver would have trouble coming up with nominees: riders who eat stinky or sloppy food in the car, leave the seats covered with crumbs, vape or smoke pot during the ride, slam the doors, make advances on their female passengers, and so on. Those are good ways to get low, low ratings from your drivers.

And what difference does your rating make? “If you rate a driver 3 stars or below, Lyft will not match you with that driver again. But drivers have the same option: if we rate a passenger 3 stars or below, we won’t have to deal with them again,” Jean MacDonald revealed.

Furthermore, a driver isn’t allowed to refuse your pickup request based on your destination. But Ray Roig reported that they are allowed to turn you down if you have a low rating.

Bottom line: Be a jerk, and you’ll have more trouble getting rides.

Courtesy and Tips

“Crowdwise” readers’ most copious category of tips involved courtesy.

“The very first thing I say is, ‘Thank you for picking me up today!’” wrote Glenn Roesler. “It relaxes the driver and often makes them forget, at least momentarily, their last unpleasant rider — and a relaxed driver is always a good thing.”

Then there’s the awkward conversation question. How do you say that you’re not in the mood to chat without seeming antisocial?

“A nice way to phrase it is, ‘I’m so exhausted. Is it all right if we just listen to music instead of chatting?’” proposed Maria Travaille. “Works every time. Honestly, the driver probably doesn’t really want to talk to you, either.”

Or carry a book, wrote Okuta Onfire. “It’s more polite than gazing at your smartphone.”

Many, many drivers wrote to say how rarely riders tip them. “Drivers make a lot less than you think,” pointed out driver Jean MacDonald. “Even a small tip is a nice pat on the back.” She points out that Uber and Lyft keep a substantial chunk of the fare you pay — 20 or 25 percent, plus various fees that can eat up another 25 percent — but the driver gets all of your tip.

By the way: If you tip in the app, the driver doesn’t find out until after having rated you. That’s one reason Matt Morgan always tips in cash. “The driver gets instant gratification, you make their day better, and you’re bound to get a 5-star passenger rating!”

Unless the driver’s behavior was egregious or dangerous, John Bordeaux always gives 5 stars and a tip, “Whatever kind of day I may be having, I’m in the back seat, and they’re fighting traffic.”

Undiscovered Features

Most of the time, you probably use Uber or Lyft for immediate pickup from the spot where you’re standing. But that’s not the end of these apps’ flexibility.

Physical help: Marjorie NYC discovered Uber Assist, which summons a driver who’s trained and ready to help with big packages, extra luggage, or equipment like wheelchairs, walkers and scooters. It’s available in 40 cities and costs nothing extra. “This feature saved me after surgery and when going to airport with too much luggage,” she wrote. (To find it, slide through the car types at the bottom of the screen to the Assist button.)

Order rides for other people (paid by you): Enter your friend’s location as the pickup address, and contact the driver to let him know that you’re not the passenger. That’s handy, wrote Madeline Carter Gooding, for “friends late at night in sticky situations, or family coming in from the airport.”

Make multiple stops: In the app, the + button next to the address box lets you add a second destination, a third, and so on.

Schedule a ride: You can order a pickup in advance, thereby setting it and forgetting it. In the Uber app, the Scheduled Rides button is next to the “Where to?” box. In the Lyft app, after entering your destination, tap Schedule below the list of car types.

Event rides: If you’re hosting a gathering (wedding or corporate event, say), you can prepay your guests’ rides home. You get a code, which you supply to them; it’s valid only during the time slots, within the geographical boundaries, and up to dollar limits you establish. The company refunds to you any amount that wasn’t used up. Here are the details for Lyft and Uber.

As it turns out, then, the ingredients for getting more out of ridesharing are common sense, caution, and courtesy. And what do you know? Those are the same principles that should guide us through every social interaction, inside cars or out.

For the next “Crowdwise:” Money is not just the root of all evil; it’s also one of the most common sources of family friction. Have you discovered any strategies for keeping the monetary peace among couples and families, or teaching healthy money habits to children? Share your tips, policies, and teachings at [email protected] by June 7.

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ivegotsomethingtosay · 7 years ago

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Big Little Lies (TV Review)

Despite sharing an entire medium (film, whether it be or digital actual celluloid), movies and television share very little else. Even today, in our “golden age of television,” the chasm between the big and small screens continues to widen even as its appertain to shrink. Sure, television shows are becoming more like movies, more cinematic, more focused on singular stories. But at the same time, movies are becoming more like television, long form franchises, shrinking variety, more unknown actors.

And then you’ve got HBO, a channel which takes it’s name “Home Box Office” very very seriously. From Game of Thrones, to last year’s Westworld, the premium cable channel has succeeded in delivering some of the best mainstream “movies” without ever selling a single ticket. Sure, Netflix occasionally shits out a gold nugget like Stranger Things or House of Cards, but if you ask me, the real people bridging the ever growing gap between film and TV are HBO, mostly because they’ve been doing in ten times longer and ten times better than anyone else.

Take Big Little Lies, which is easily one of, if not the best movie you’re likely to see all year. It’s the kind of wildly entertaining, star-packed piece of pop art that would sweep the Oscars even on a good year. It’s Gone Girl meets All About Eve. Hysterical, horrifying, brilliant. The catch? It’s seven hours long and you need an HBO subscription to watch it.

And yet, I couldn’t imagine it working any other way. There are three main characters here, all of whom have complex family situations and back stories. To squeeze those into a two or two and a half hour long movie wouldn’t be fair to them or the audience.

First, there’s Jane (Shailene Woodley), a young single mother who moves to the safe, quiet town of Monterey California because of their top notch public schools. There, she meets Madeline (Reese Witherspoon), a type-A helicopter mom and her best friend, former lawyer-turned-homemaker Celeste (Nicole Kidman). In less than a month, someone will be dead. And as we delve deeper into each woman’s life, their insecurities, their fears, their frustrations, the question slowly morphs from “who’s going to die?” to “who isn’t going to die?”

It’s all standard book club fare. Desperate housewives, catty moms, a mysterious murder. And yet the brilliance of Liane Moriarty’s story, and David E. Kelly’s adaptation of it, is how successfully it transcends its chick-lit trappings while also being such a satisfying cinematic experience. The best movies not only direct the audience’s attention; they predict it. Lies always seems to know the conclusions you’re going to come to before you come to them yourself. It manages to stay one step ahead of its audience without ever talking down to them, and it’s this kind of playful generosity that keeps us surprised, engaged, and thinking long after the final credits have rolled.

Of course, it helps to have one of the best casts assembled for anything. Ever. Seriously, this is a team of actors some big producers would only dream of getting. Everyone is fantastic, and fantastic in many different ways. There’s Witherspoon, who balances the scenery-chewing preppiness of Elle Woods with the righteous furry she brought to Cheryl Strayed in Wild to especially disarming effect. There’s Woodley, who plays Jane with a kind of honesty and authenticity that other, less talented actresses would have interpreted as melodrama.

And Kidman. Man, where do I start. Nicole Kidman has always been an interesting actress. She recalls a young Faye Dunaway in the delicate ways she toes the line between subtly and grander. She’s got the look and presence of a golden age superstar with a dark, macabre twist lurking under those glassy Vaseline eyes. As Celeste, she’s all at once impenetrable, vulnerable, confident, terrified. Both her character and her performance are an intoxicating hurricane of contradictions that cast an eerie, almost surreal presence over the material, and help carry it past the line that separates good from great.

If you’re still not entirely sure what I’m talking about: good. Big Little Lies is a show that’s all about the sick pleasure of having your expectations flipped around, stripped down, and exposed for the prejudices they’re actually masking. The less you know about how the show does this and what it does specifically only make the experience all the more satisfying. Suffice it to say that director Jean-Marc Vallee and David Kelly have delivered an absolutely stellar example of what episodic storytelling can accomplish. Together with Kidman, Woodley and Witherspoon, they’ve crafted a image of modern womanhood that’s sure to enthrall, challenge, and educate viewers long after this “golden age” has ended. If it ever ends, that is.

OVERALL RATING: 9 / 10 SEE IT OR SKIP IT: See it (Watch it? I’m not really sure what to say with a TV show…)

#big little lies #tv reviews

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leelee10898 · 6 years ago

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Back to you Chapter 15 pt 2 - Leave right now.

Characters belong to pixelberry except those created for the story Summary: we pick up right where part 1 left off. Ellis is not wild about Leos return. Leo and Aria grow closer, and Ellie almost lets something slip out. Catch up here Rating: Mostly Fluff, slight NSFW Chapter/Title inspiration: Thomas Rhett - leave right now.. Thanks a lot for getting me hooked....@bobasheebaby!!

Tag list: @bobasheebaby @scarlettedragon @katurrade @annekebbphotography @speedyoperarascalparty @greys-anatomy-quotes @stopforamoment @mind-reader1 @xxrainbowprincessxx @hopefulmoonobject @alicars @indiacater @bella-ca @blznbaby @blackwidow2721 @liamxs-world @simsvetements @furiousherringoperatortoad

As always if you want added to the tag list, let me know! Thanks for reading :)

“El, come onnnnn. Lighten up, Leo and I have moved past everything, its time you did too.” Aria whines, while grabbing onto Leos arm pulling herself closer to him. Ellie eyes The duo curiously. “Ellie, I know I put you in a terrible position after, well, everything in Europe, but I genuinely hope we can move forward.” Leo extends his hand turning on his charm. “Ok fine,! But if you hurt her again I will hunt you down and chop off your dick myself. ” Ellie threatened as she shook his hand.The waitress pulls up two more chairs and takes Aria and Leos order. “Ill have 6 honey barbecue boneless and a Pepsi.” Aria ordered. “What are your hottest wings? Leo questioned the waitress. ” homicide,they are very hot. “ she informed him. "Ill have those and a Heineken please.” Aria eyes Leo, you sure you can handle those Rhys? They are super hot.“ Leo shoots her a cocky grin "I think ill be able to handle them.”

The group engages in idle chit chat about whats been going on in each others lives the past few months before the waitress comes back with their food. Everyone eyes fall on Leo as he picks up his first wing. He rips off a hunk of chicken and chews not even breaking a sweat. He finishes the first with no problem. “They have a kick, but I have had hotter.” He takes a sip of his beer. Aria giggles “that’s why your super man.”

They finish their food and rob and Liz take off. “Hey, lets go visit Daniel.” Aria begged. She had not seen him since she left and she was wondering how he and Gary were doing with the wedding plans. “You know I hate that place, but Daniel has a heavy hand, fuck it lets go.” Ellie agrees as they jump up. . Leo pulls Aria closer “so where exactly are we going?” He asked. “A bar.. the one I worked at before I left for Cordonia.” They pull into the parking lot of the bar and wait a few minutes for Jay and Ellie to get there. Jay had a street bike as well, but wasn’t as skilled a driver as Leo was. They finally pull in. “Dude that’s a sweet bike.” Jay admired which turned into a full on conversation between Jay and Leo about bikes and the motocross circuit “If you two ladies want to sit out here and gab all night, Ellie and I are going to go get a drink.” Aria hollered motioning between the two. Leo grinned as he slid up to her side putting his arm around her waist. “My apologies beautiful, shall we.” He motioned with his other hand to lead the way.

They walk in and Daniel looks up from the counter. “Well look at what they cat dragged in, come here.” He ran up to give her a hug. “Hey everyone Aria’s in the house.” He shouted, the bar erupted with cheers. Many of her regulars she served were there. “Something of a celebrity here I see.” Leo leaned in close kissing her cheek. Aria smiled “This is home, this was my life. I spent almost every night with many of them.” She planted a kiss on his lips. “Hey Dan, Ronnie in?” She asked. “Nope.” Daniel informed her as he poured a beer. “Good, let me behind that bar, hey El Alabama slammer?.” She questioned her friend. “Hell yeah! Im gonna go grab a booth.” Ellie nods her head and walks off Aria saunters behind the bar.

Leo pulls up a chair. He watches her grab bottles of liquor pouring them skillfully into each glass. “So spill. Who’s the hottie?” Daniel gushed glancing over in Leos direction. “Easy there tiger, aren’t you engaged.” Aria chuckled. “Yeah, but you gotta appreciate a good looking guy, and that one is FINE.” Daniel fanned himself with his hand. “That’s Leo, my ex. And current, im not even sure what we are. I guess Friends with benefits? She knew that it was more then just sex between them but could not find the right words. . “What happened to Liam, that was his name right, the prince.” Daniel eyed her curiously. She had wrote him a few emails but had not updated since Liam chose Madeline. He is marrying an uber cunt. Were figuring things out. Oh Leo is his brother.” She rushes her words, regretting them as soon as they came out. Daniel gives her a stern look. “So let me get this right, Liam is a prince, which makes Leo a prince too. You used to date Leo, and then almost married his brother, and you’re here with him now?” Daniel shakes his head “Jesus Ari what have you gotten yourself into?” “Correction Liam is a king, Leo is the former crown prince but abdicate, hes still a prince by birth right. And yes, im currently fucking him. Wanna know anything else Dan?” Aria snaps. Daniel puts his hands up in defeat as Aria grabs the drinks she made,handing Leo his as they make their way to the booth. “Were gonna need a few applebombs Dan, can you bring em out in a few?” She shouts over her shoulder.

Ellie gulps her drink down fast “man I missed how good you make them.” She said sliding her empty cup across the table. “You know how strong I make them, you may wanna pace yourself or you’ll fall off the back of Jays bike.” Aria giggles. “What no shots?” Ellie pouts. “What am I new? I already told Daniel.: She slouched back in her chair. After a few drinks Ellie grabs Arias hand and they make their way to the dance floor. Leaving Leo to chat with Jay. He liked Jay, he was a decent guy and knew a lot about motorcycles and racing. He even knew of Leo from the racing circuit. Leo sipped his beer as he watched her move around the dance floor with her best friend. She was smiling, laughing and singing along with the words to every song that came on. A familiar feeling came over him, it was the exact way he felt all those years ago, watching her be carefree and having fun. He loved her, he never stopped loving her. He pushed it down, even marrying Katie he wished it was her. When danced with her at the Masquerade ball in Cordonia he felt it and he didn’t know it was her, not until he had the PI find out who she was. He loved her, of that he was always sure, but this feeling was more he was head over heels for her. He needed to tell her and soon.

They came back to the table, Ellie was already pretty drunk, she took a sip of Arias Malibu bay breeze “so Leo, you were married huh.” Ellie says with a bit of sarcasm. “I was, it did not work out.” Leo takes a swig of his beer, avoiding eye contact. “Did you have any kids?” She questioned. “No, thankfully Katie and I did not. I only ever thought of myself having children with one person.” His eyes flashed to Aria, her blush hidden with the already redness of her hot face. Ellie picking up on his subtle hint snorted. “That’s to bad, you could ha-” “Ellie, enough.” Aria warned, her voice dropped low and serious. Leo looked between both women, something Ellie mentioned, Aria did not want her to finish. Just then Jay comes up pulling Leo away “Hey some guys I know are fans they wanna meet you, come on.”

As soon as Leo was gone Aria whipped around her eyes never leaving Ellie’s face “what the hell do you think you’re doing bringing that up?” Arias tone stern, her stare was cold, a sad trait she picked up from her time in the courtly life. “Damn, look at you. I guess being around royalty has made you grow some balls.” Ellie spit back. “You know that is something I never want to think about, why would you say that in front of him?” Aria seethed. “Jeeze, sorry I wasn’t thinking. You know you really should tell him. One day, he has the right to know.” Ellie got up to get a refill leaving Aria alone to ponder Ellie’s words. She knew she should tell him, it had been weighing on her for 5 years, if she was going to move forward with either him or Liam she needed to Cleanse herself of old baggage. She would tell him just not here.

Leo, Ellie and Jay made their way back to the table. The mood started to lighten and the drinks kept coming. They settled into a nice groove, laughing and sharing stories. Aria rested her hand on Leo’s thigh, inching it closer every few minutes. A sly grin forms on his face. She moves her hand Dangerously close to the crotch of his pants, she can feel him grow against his jeans. He turns and drops his voice “what are you doing Beautiful?” “I have no idea what you are talking about handsome. ” she feigned innocence. “Ok, if that’s how you wanna play it.” He dips his hand under the table making his way in between Arias legs, he ran his fingers across her sex, she could feel the heat start to pool. She held back a moan as he continued to rub between her legs. She was so sure she had a wet spot by now. They were both so caught up in each other they didn’t notice Jay and Ellie leave the booth. Not wanting to have an orgasm right there she moved her hand away from his crotch above the table to grab her drink. She needed to cool down after that. He keeps his hand on her thigh his body facing her, she raises her glass taking a long sip from the straw. A familar song plays, she tilts her head back “ohh I love this song.” She sings along

Same streets, same party Drowning their problems in Bacardi Same people still talking Oh, I’m so over it, I’m sorry Baby, you and me could leave right now Ditch all your friends, the guy you came with Get to know you where it ain’t so loud Just you and me alone on some old moonlit road But the two of us could disappear Just say the word and get out of here Baby, you and me could leave right now

He stares at her wide eyed and stunned. “You have a Beautiful voice love, how did I not know you could sing?” “hmm I guess its just not something that most people know.” She sips her drink humming the rest of the words to herself. “Dance wit me Leo.” Aria jumps up holding her hand out, He takes it and they head to the dance floor. He pulls her close as their bodies sway to the music.Leo sings along with the chorus.

Baby, you and me could leave right now Ditch all your friends, the guy you came with Get to know you where it ain’t so loud Just you and me alone on some old moonlit road But the two of us could disappear Just say the word and get out of here Baby, you and me could leave right now Meet me out back if you like how that sounds

His voice smooth and sexy, she felt weak in the knees. She didn’t know he could sing. My god another to love about him. She was a goner, if she had any walls left they were completely gone now. She grabbed his hand and they made their way out the door to his bike. Leo twirls her around grabbing her by the small of her back, his other hand brushing her hair behind her ear. His lips crashed down on hers, their lips part and their tongues dance together, fighting for dominance. He pulls back reluctantly, leaving her breathless and light headed. “Come on, I want to show you something.” He hands her a helmet and they drove off into the city that never sleeps.

#prince leo #king liam #cordonia #choices trr #trr fanfic #trr #leo trr #leo roe #backtoyoufic #leaverightnow #thomas rhett

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leelee10898 · 6 years ago

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Back to you: Chapter 8 Rock bottom

Disclaimer: All characters belong to PixelBerry except those unique to the story. Rating: Mature for language Summary: Tension is getting thick between Aria and Liam, with Madeline tightening the Liams Leash. A night out with two friends makes her see one of them in a different light. (this is a LONG one, I thought about breaking it down into 2 parts buttttt...I didnt wanna ;) ) Tag list: @scarlettedragon @annekebbphotography @speedyoperarascalparty @mind-reader1 @bobasheebaby @hopefulmoonobject @greyeyedsmile14 @indiacater @stopforamoment @xxrainbowprincessxx @lizeboredom @indiacater

New to the series? Catch up HERE

Song inspiration: If you have never listened to this song you really should.

Aria had never been a fan or trains so when they learned they would be on one for weeks during this sham engagement tour she knew she would need to spend most of it drunk. At least the parts she could be anyway. Thank God for court parties, there was always some kind of booze available. She was thankful they had hotel accommodations tonight though.

Things had been going well with Liam, but as the days went on his schedule became more and more full. Aria didn’t see him except for glances at social events. Madeline was also turning up the PDA as well. “Lets go Aria we were supposed to be there 10 minutes ago.” Leo groaned waiting for Aria to change into yet another dress. They had dinner with an Italian statesmen who was one of Liams mothers friends. Leo was filling in for the Beaumonts since they were out trying to track Tariq down. “Ok how about this one?” Aria steps out of the bathroom. Leos eyes light up, she looked stunning in a red sequin gown that hugged her body, the back cut so low you could almost see the tattoo she had on the small of her back. Leo stuttered, he couldn’t form words to save his life. Aria laughs “I’ll take that as it’s a winner.” Leo nods his head “yes, now can we go I’m starving.” His words came back.

When they walked into the dinner all eyes were on them. Liam’s mouth dropped open, Aria caught him out if her corner of her eye she stiffened back a laugh. She loved when she could pull him out of that stoic demeanor. Fire courses through Madeline veins. It wasn’t bad enough Liam was constantly drooling over Aria, making her look incredibly stupid. But now she saunters in on Leo’s arm? Aria and Leo take their seats. They are close enough to the head table to have a clear view of Madeline and Liam.

Madeline plasters on a smile as she holds liams hand. She leans in close whispering in his ear “wipe the drool off your face liam, People are watching." He straightens up in his seat. Something had to be done about her, She couldnt have both Rhys brothers after her. Madeline thought to herself, taking a sip of her wine.

At the end of dinner the guest mingled. Aria found a moment alone on the balcony with Liam. “Will you be joining me tonight? She inquired It had been a week since Liam spent the night with her. "Aria I wish I could but Madeline roped us into drinks with the statesmen, I won’t be able to get away.” He reaches out to touch her hand. Aria moves her hand and sighs “ this is the third time this week Liam. You know you have been spending an awful lot of your down time with Madeline.” “Me? You show up here on my brothers arm, wearing that.” He motioned up and down to her dress. “Well, at least someone escorted me to dinner. Maxwell and Bertrand are working hard to track down whoever set me up, or do you even care about clearing my name anymore?” Aria seethed “keep it down, we don’t want to draw attention.” Liam insisted. Aria stares at him wide eyed “You are unbelievable liam.” She scoffs “Oh and the dress was supposed to be for YOUR benefit!” she walks away leaving him on the balcony.

Aria heads over to the bar and hops up on the bar stool next to drake. “Shot of vodka.” She tells the bartender. “Uh oh, that kind of night.” Drake grumbles. She takes her shot and throws it back slamming the glass down on the bar. Drake looks at her for a moment, he can tell she’s having a rough night. “Hey, I was going to go shoot some pool, there’s a bar the outside of town if you want to join me?” He asks trying to hide the longing look he was sure he was giving off. Liam told her she could see other people, the attraction he felt for her was growing stronger. He knew he shouldn’t have these feelings but he did. “That sounds great. Give me 30 minutes and I’ll meet you in the hotel lobby. Aria said hoping off the stool.

She searches the crowd for Leo to let him know she was going to take off, but he found her first. "There you are, I been looking for you.” Aria says “Me? I was coming to ask if you had any plans tonight beautiful? Leo slides an arm around her playfully "Actually yeah, drake and I are going to a bar to have a drink and shoot some pool. Wanna go? Aria asks twirling her hair with her fingers. She hoped he would say yes, Leo always knew how to get her out of a funk. "I could shoot some pool.” Leo says dropping his arm and taking her hand. As they are leaving the resturant Liam sees them across the room. His face scarlet with a mixture of anger and jelousey. Of course she’s leaving with Leo, he’s always there to swoop in after i manage to screw up. If I didn’t pick my game up, Leo wouldn’t have to steal her, she would go willingly. He thought to himself.

After a quick change Aria heads to the hotel loby to meet drake. “Hey Hale, you ready to go?” He asks. “Umm just 1 min… ah there.” She searches the crowd, smiling as she sees Leo. “Hey we ready to go?” Leo approaches. “Oh, I didn’t know you were coming too Rhys.” Drake grumbled. He was not expecting Leo to cut into his alone time with Aria. “Yeah I invited him, hope that’s ok?” Aria said picking at her nails. “Ah yeah I guess.” Drakes voice dripping with annoyance. Leo smirked, he knew what drakes plan was. Aria walks towards the car Drake had waiting. Leo clasps Drake on the shoulder and chuckles “nice try bud, but that ones mine.” Drake gives Leo a stern look before they both get into the car.

They pull up to the bar and Aria gasps. “I don’t believe it. Leo do you remember this place?” She asked Leo nods in agreement “I do. Shall we make the same wager?” He cocks his brow, a sly grin forms “You’re on.” Aria pushes his arm. Drake looks at the two of them confused .

They walk into the bar and grab a booth. Leo gets a few pool sticks and claims a table while drake gets a glass of whiskey, he brings Leo and Aria a beer. “This place hasn’t changed at all.” Aria observes sipping her beer. “How do you know this place?” Drake inquires. “I was here, five years ago. My best friend Ellie and I spent a summer abroad. We started in Italy and ended in France.” Aria tells him. “I actually met leo in italy that summer.” She sips her beer avoiding eye contact. “So thats what you meant, at the Beaumont party about it not being the first time you met.” Drake put two and two together. “We came here a few times.” Aria remembers the first time they came.

“I’m gonna warn you, I’m not that good at pool.” Aria confesses, holding the pool stick in her hand. “That’s ok, I can help you if you want.” Leo says handing her a drink. Aria doesn’t sink one ball. “Well I suck.” Aria chuckles drinking her beer. “ no, your just holding the stick wrong, here let me show you.” Leo slides up behind her, placing his hands on hers. He helps her make a shot. He backs away and takes his last shot. “Looks like I win.” he teases. “Ok, another game but this time lets make a wager.” Aria says a hint of mischief in her eyes. “A kiss. If you lose you have to give me a kiss.” Leo states “and if I win?” Aria inquires “dealers choice.” Leo says a little cocky. “You’re on.” Aria shakes his hand. “You wanna break?” Aria asks while setting the balls up. “Ladies first. ” Leo motions to the table. Aria lines the shot up and Crack! The balls fly across the table, she sinks 2 of them. Leo’s eye go wide as he watches her effortlessly run the table. “I believe I win.. time to pay up.” Aria boasts. “You sneak. You said you weren’t that good.. You failed to mention your a pool shark.” Leo’s mouth hangs open. Aria giggles “What do I have to do?” Leo asks nervously. “I believe you owe me a kiss.” Aria whispers in his ear. Leo grins as he takes her face in his hands. His lips press gently on hers as his tounge slips gently into her mouth. She gives completely in, she feels herself melt away, lightheaded they pull back. Leo flashes her a bright smile and just like that, she was hooked.

“Ready to play?” Leo asked pulling her out of her thoughts. “Drake can play first game.” Aria nodded to the pool table. She took a moment to look at Leo, she forgot how handsome he looked in a pair of jeans, a t-shirt, and that leather jacket. Flashing that bright big smile made her feel a little weak in the knees. Get a hold of yourself Aria. She thought to herself. She watched them play until drake walks up. “He cheats” Drake grumbled gulping down his whiskey. “Oh stop being a sore loser Walker, here do you want a hug?” Leo teased “I regret everything.” Drake huffed walking away to get another drink.

“What do you say beautiful you and me?” Leo challenged. “The usual wager?” Her eyes perked. Leo smiled as she jumped down from the bar stool and walked over to the pool table. After a short game Leo lost, like he always did. “Well I guess I better pay up.” Leo saunters over with a sly smile. A lump forms in her throat, she gulps. As He leans in Drake walks over interupting the moment “hey guys I’m about ready to head out,you coming? He informs them. "Yep, let’s go. ” Aria sighs. Saved by drake she thought. It would have been awkward kissing your almost fiances brother, that was also your ex,in front of your former fiances best friend who also had a major crush on you… Yep her life was totally fucked up.

Once they arrived back at the hotel drake went towards his room while Leo and Aria went towards the lounge. “You know I really wasn’t ready to call it a night.” Aria sighed “who says we have to? We can go back to your room and hang out I’ll get us some booze, you distract the bar tender.” Leo grinned heading towards the bar. Aria smiles as she walks in after Leo, And there they were. Liam and Madeline looking quite cozy in a booth, alone. He had his arm around her, he was leaned in close. He didn’t even notice her staring at them but Madeline did. And then it happened, he leaned in and kisses her. Madeline gave Aria a side eye look and smirked. Arias blood boiled but she remained calm. Leo comes back “Hey what happened? Luckily the bartender was busy.” He said. “You got the stuff?” She asked, never taking her eyes off Liam. He pulls his jacket to the side revealing the bottle of rum. Leo follows her gaze and sees Liam and Madeline in the middle of a seemingly passionate kiss. Aria nods and pulls him by the hand. “Lets go!” As they rush past Liam looks up to see them hurry away.

Once they got to her room She grabbed the bottle of rum and took a swig. Fucking Madeline, who the fuck does she think she is? Aria thought to herself pacing the floor. “You going to share that?” Leo questioned. Aria took another swig and calmed herself down and handed him the bottle. He gives her a concerned look. “I’m fine.” She protest. “you sure? because it looks like your going to wear a hole in the carpet from pacing so much.” Aria stops pacing and walks over to the couch to sit down.

They drink in silence for a little while before aria breaks it. “So you got married?” Leo choakes completely caught off gaurd. She shouldn’t have asked it, she knew better but curoiusty got the best of her. She wanted to know about the woman who landed Leo Rhys heart. She thought she had, but he told her it was just a fling. She was drunk and did not care. “I got divorced.” He countered her question. “Yes I know, but tell me about her, the woman who finally stole Leo Rhys heart.” Her words dripping with resentment. Leo narrowed his eyes at my her, and licked his lips. He could tell she was jealous, and he was loving every minute of it. “Katie was my wife, it lasted a year.” He tells her taking a swig of the rum. “I met her when she was on a cruise, I thought she was sweet and funny. Turns out I was just lonely and she reminded me of someone, or so i thought.” He paused looking at her. “She was a whore who continued to see her two other suitors well after we got married. She ended up pregnant by one of them, so I left and filed for divorce.” He let out a breath he had been holding in.

He did not want to talk about Katie, she was a huge mistake. “Fuck Leo, your just as fucked up as me.” Aria chuckled and pushed his arm. “Yeah I guess I am.” He agreed. “She didn’t steal my heart you know. I gave that away a long time ago. I never got it back.” He looks up at Aria searching her eyes. What does he mean by that? Gave it to who? God those eyes… Aria thought to herself..

I should probably get going, we have to be on the train pretty early.“ Leo broke the tension. "Oh, yeah you’re probably right, we should call it a night.” Aria agrees. she walks Leo over as he opened the door He turns to her. “You know, I do believe I owe you a debt.” He leans in and kisses her lips softly, Aria puts her hands around his neck and deepens the kiss. Their lips part and tongues do a familair dance. She can taste the rum in his kiss. He pulls away and smiles. “Good night beautiful.” Leaning in and giving her one last gentle kiss. “Goodnight super man.” Aria whispers as she shuts the door.

****

Drake went back to his room. Fumimg that Leo crashed his evening with Aria. He tossed and turned in the bed before giving up. He jumped up and put his clothes back on. His feet took him to the bar down stairs. “Whiskey neat.” He tells the bartender.

“Don’t you drink anything other then whiskey?” A familiar voice comes up behind. He turns to find Olivia. “Thought you left court, What are you doing here?” He questions “Well, I’m here for answers. I want to find out who sent me that threatening letter.” She said sipping her glass of wine. “What are you doing here?”

Drake grumbles “planned a night out hanging with Aria.. but Leo crashed.” “So you were looking to get laid and Leo cock blocked you?” Olivia chucked to herself. Drakes silence was all the answer he needed. Olivia traced the rum of her glass with her finger. “You know we used to help each other out quite often.. perhaps we could help each other again?” Drake looks at Olivia contemplating her offer. He gulps down his whiskey and gets off the bar stool. Olivia jumps down and takes his hand as they head off towards her room.

****

Aria laid in her bed. Thoughts of the night running through her head. Liam turned her down, not once but three times this week.. to spend time with Madeline. And then she caught them kissing. She didn’t get it. If it was supposed to be a sham engagement why did he kiss Madeline? That kiss didnt look fake. Why did he blow her off? And then there was the kiss with Leo. It left her light headed and weak in the knees. She was over him,wasnt she? It’s been 5 almost 6 years now. When he left he told her it was just a summer fling. She felt the hurt creep back into her body. Maybe she still harbored feelings, she suppressed them down determined to snuff them out and move on.. The irritating thought in the back of her mind what if they dont find tariq. What then? Will Liam marry Madeline? What happens to them? She couldnt be someones mistress, could she? She didn’t know what was going on in her head or her life anymore, but she did know she was going to have to figure it all out before she let herself get hurt yet again. And she needed to start by getting everything off her chest, starting with Liam. She closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

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