#benson the handbag

[stinkylittleboiii]

Forby at the sushi train, which plate he grabbin?

[dubaivisasolutions]

Know about Dubai International Airport Duty-Free Shopping

The colossal Dubai International Airport (DXB) has truly earned the moniker of one of the largest and busiest airports in the world. Spanning over 7,200 acres, this sprawling airport is also an integral transit hub for numerous international flights and you can only imagine the number of footfalls each day. With millions of people passing by every day in DXB, it is only fair that it offers an equally phenomenal shopping experience to everyone. While shopping in the city of gold is one of the most exciting experiences, shopping in the Dubai Duty Free is truly an incredible experience. Come, let’s check out what all you can buy at the Dubai Duty Free.

There are two major Dubai international airports – DXB and Al Maktoum and both of them have a plethora of shopping outlets for you to peruse both at the arrival and departure. However, the Terminal 3 of DXB is where all the action is. It has the maximum number of outlets and sells everything from jewellery, cosmetics, bags, electronics, perfumes, chocolates, shoes, souvenirs, alcohol, fashion accessories, clothing, and more.

About Dubai Duty Free

Dubai Duty Free is the largest retail airport retailer globally having won this title more than 10 times until now. Spread over a staggering area of 40,000 sqm combined, the DDF is open 365 days of the year 24/7 and offers one of the most extraordinary Dubai shopping experience. The cherry on the cake is you don’t even have to pay import duties or service taxes on the goods purchased so you can splurge as much as you want. Another advantage is that there is an online site for people who are short of time and can shop and get the products delivered directly at home. Isn’t that fantastic?

Here is a break-down of the various categories and outlets that are available.

Lifestyle, beauty, and fashion

No surprises that some of the top notch luxurious global brands in fashion, makeup, skincare, and lifestyle have their outlets at the DDF. Gucci, Armani, YSL, Burberry, Lacoste, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Prada, Dolce and Gabbana, Estée Lauder, Coach, NARS, Lancôme, Givenchy are just a few to make to the list. Gift yourself a gorgeous Gucci handbag, a stunning pair of Dior sunglasses, or a YSL perfume, as you are indeed spoilt for choice here.

Electronics/Tech

DDF is a haven for tech gadgets and you can find an assortment of electronics under one roof including laptops, mobile phones, cameras,tablets, drones, and everything that your heart fancies. From Apple, Samsung, and Sony, to GoPro, Bose, JBL, and Dyson, you can find many stores here. 

Jewellery

Dubai is famous for its gold souk and people generally love to buy at least some gold jewellery during their trip. You can even buy gold bars ranging from 18 carats to 24 carats at the DDF. Some of the well-known stores here are Bvlgari, Cartier, Tiffany & Co, Rolex, Swarovski, Pandora, Frey Wille, Damiani, and Liali.

Luggage

You are dragging a heavy suitcase and the wheel comes off, or the zip of the bag breaks. Well, worry not as DDF comes to your rescue. Get them fixed from Samsonite, Go Travel or Tumi, or better yet just buy a new piece of luggage. Also check out the travel pillows, luggage tags, sleeping masks, backpacks, and earplugs here.

Alcohol and Tobacco

Alcohol and tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, vapes, and electronic cigarettes are much in demand among shoppers. Fun fact is that alcohol is the bestselling product in the DDF. Marlboro, Heets, Jack Daniels, Glenfiddich, Johnny Walkers, Benson & Hedges, Davidoff, Dunhill, and Iqos are the popular brand available here.

Chocolates and Confectionary

Food is an important part of shopping and also make for great souvenirs to carry for your loved ones. Cookies, candies, dry fruits, and chocolates from brands like Godiva, Toblerone, Hershey’s, Reese’s, Lindt, M&Ms, Butlers are just perfect to indulge in.

Toys

With so many exceptional shopping options for the adults, how can the little ones be left behind? Whether it is action figurines, cars, soft toys, or dolls, shops like LEGO, Disney, Marvel, Hasbro, and Crayola are there to fulfil your needs.

Souvenirs

Collecting souvenirs from any new place to remember the vacation fondly is one of the best things to do. From fridge magnets, stuffed camels, key chains, to themed chocolates, Bateel dates, and miniature models of iconic monuments like Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, etc. are some of the impressive ones that you find here. There is also an exclusive Emirates store where you can buy merchandise such as caps, t shirts, luggage scale, and also the Boeing 777 model aircraft.

Watches/Clocks

Watches from world-class brands like Rolex, Casio, Omega, Tag Heuer, Tissot, Rado, Fossil, Skagen, and Michael Kors, are available in the DDF.

Apart from these myriad products, DDF also has many raffles, car draws, bike draws, and other programs where travellers get a chance to win money, vehicles, and many other goodies. Do try and participate as you may be the next lucky winner of a Mercedes Benz or a BMW.

You can visit their official website to find out more about these programs or the various stores and how to navigate them.

Conclusion

The Dubai Duty Free promises a wholesome shopping experience to all its customers with freebies, loyalty points, and other unique promotions to sweeten the deal a little more. We suggest you go through their official website before hand and make a list of the things that you want to make this process more memorable.

[alisonsfics]

high school reunion

pairing: chris evans x reader

summary: in high school, you were one of the smart kids. You had been focused on two things a.) your grades b.) chris evans. chris was a year older than you and an absolute daydream. he never noticed you or your pathetic crush on him. when you run into him at your high school reunion, you realize he may have paid more attention to you than you thought.

word count: 3.1k

warnings: drinking, swearing, smut, unprotected sex, oral (f & m receiving), face riding, blowjobs, multiple orgasms, praise kink, dirty talk, minors DNI (18+ ONLY)

As you walked into the old gymnasium, you were struck by the booming bass coming from the dj’s booth and countless flashbacks to your high school experience.

It all came back to you in a flood of memories. You remembered the dreaded dodgeball games and watching awkward promposals. Within an instant, it’s like you were a teenage girl again, and your only concern was your upcoming physics test.

As you took it all in, someone walked up to you. You almost missed them saying hi to you as you reminisced. “Wait...Camille? From Ms. Benson’s home room? It’s been forever. How are you?” You asked, remembering the girl who sat next to you in home room. She had traded in her grunge aesthetic and denim jackets for a designer dress and a Gucci handbag.

“I’ve been doing great. It’s nice to see you. You look amazing. I almost didn’t recognize you” she said, and you giggled at your identical dilemma.

In high school, you would have refrained from calling yourself a nerd and instead chose “academically inclined.”

Here you were, almost twenty years later, and you definitely had not peaked in high school. You were now the CEO of a successful business. Let’s just say, your appearance now put your high school self to shame.

“Meet my husband, Robert” Camille said, introducing you to the man at her side. You both exchanged polite smiles and a handshake. After you had gotten all the pleasantries out of the way, Camille got to the gossip. “So are you married?” She asked, paying close attention to your answer.

You shook your head politely. “No, I’m single actually” you informed her, casually glancing around the room. “Really? I would have assumed you and Chris would have ended up together” she told you, and you nearly choked on the air.

She smirked at your reaction. “I—ummm. Why would you think that?” You asked, innocently. You still weren’t a very good liar, and she noticed.

“Come on. You were head over heels for him in high school. I always assumed he had a thing for you too. You two would make an adorable couple” she teased you. You felt a small grin appear on your face as you remembered the love of your life during high school.

Chris had been the one thing that distracted you from school. He was like a Ken doll. You had gone to school with him since kindergarten, and once high school started, you were in love. You believed he was your soulmate. It ended up just being a silly fantasy.

“He didn’t even know I existed in high school. Besides, now he’s a big successful actor” you told her, stubbornly. She didn’t seem convinced by your words. “Well, I have some more people to say hello to. Let me know when you and Romeo finally get together. It’s been good to see you” she said, taking her husband's hand and walking away.

You tried to ignore the heat beating off of your cheeks. You headed towards the open bar, knowing you would need a drink to deal with tonight because along with the nostalgic high school flashbacks, came dealing with the preppy girls who had once been cheerleaders and were now three-times divorced.

You thanked the bartender and took the glass out of his hand. You turned around and ran right into someone. You stumbled backwards and felt a strong pair of hands grip your forearms and stop you from falling.

Once you finally got your balance, you looked at the person the arms were attached to. You nearly spit out your drink.

Chris Evans.

“I’m so sorry. Are you okay?” he quickly apologized, but you were left speechless. Slowly, your brain began to function again. “Yes, no I’m—I’m fine” you stuttered, still not believing your eyes.

You didn’t think Chris would even show up tonight. You assumed he was probably busy with work, being famous and all that.

He chuckled as you stumbled over your words. “Wait. It’s you?” He asked, a sense of realization washing over him. His eyes gazed over your body, engraving it all into his memory. “You look...wow” he mumbled, breathlessly. It was the first time he had gotten a good look at you.

Just like that, your walls shattered. In high school, you viewed Chris as amazing in every way. He was perfect in your eyes. Finally, twenty years later, you knew he wasn’t. He was just like everyone else. Every expectation you’d had of him for years was shattered.

You were invisible to him in high school. You didn’t think he had ever even looked in your direction. You only now had his attention because you were attractive. He wanted nothing to do with you when you were the smart girl who aced all of her tests. Now that you had an amazing figure, he was all over you. He was just like every other guy.

“Thank you...for finally waking me up. I can’t believe I let myself think you were a good guy” you said, muttering the last part to yourself. Then, you moved your arms away from him and walked right past him. After having your “aha moment”, you wondered why it took you so long to see him for what he truly was.

You quickly busied yourself with making small talk with a few friends. You weren’t really that interested in the conversation, but you desperately needed a distraction. It didn’t help that you could feel Chris’ eyes burning into your skin.

Even when he was talking to other people, his eyes would find yours over the shoulder of whoever he was talking to. It felt like your skin was on fire; all because he was watching your every move.

You headed towards the bar, needing another drink to cope with this. Before you could make it to the bar, someone grabbed your hand and pulled you towards them. In your heart, you knew who it was, but you prayed it wasn’t.

You were right.

It was Chris.

He had pulled you towards the dance floor, and his hands were resting on your hips. You tried to pull away, but he had a firm grasp. “Let me go” you said, simply but sternly. He shook his head, not giving in an easy as you would have liked.

“Can we just talk?” He asked you, looking into your eyes. You huffed, but eventually gave in. You wrapped your arms around his neck and swayed from side to side with him. “What did I do to make you upset?” He asked you.

You could see how genuine he was in his eyes. After all these years, he exuded comfort.

“Do you think I didn’t see you checking me out?” You asked him. His brows furrowed in confusion. “I didn’t mean to be creepy. It’s just...you look good” he told you, but his eyes didn’t leave yours. No lingering glances that rolled down your body. He was looking right into your eyes. You couldn’t help but start to believe him.

You were torn. You didn’t want to fall for his trap, but you had twenty years worth of feelings that hadn’t disappeared. “It’s not that you looked. It’s that you didn’t look before. In high school, I was invisible, but now all of a sudden you’re interested. Now that I’m not the nerdy smart girl, you are suddenly invested in talking to me” you said, sharply.

He made it hard to be mad at him. You wanted to hate him, but you couldn’t bring yourself to do it.

He seemed confused by what you said. “I was just shocked that you look so different now. It took me a second to recognize you. And you were never invisible to me” he told you, his thumb rubbing into your hip.

“Oh please, you barely knew my name in high school” you said, unconvinced. He chuckled to himself while looking down at the floor. “No, I got nervous around you. I barely knew my own name when you were around” he told you, bashfully.

You didn’t know whether to believe his words or not. He was an actor, so it wouldn’t be hard to trick you, but the look in his eyes felt genuine. “Prove it” you challenged him.

A small chuckle passed through his lips as he looked at you. “Okay. When you were really focusing in class, you would bite the end of your pencil. Your golden rule was that you had to get above a 93% on any test you took. Sometimes when it was dodgeball day, you would sneak under the bleachers to read your favorite book: Something Wicked this Way Comes by Ray Bradbury” he rambled, and you were blown away. He had been paying attention to you all those years.

“Wow” you said, stunned. He smirked as he watched you realize everything he said was true. “Believe me now?” He questioned. You just nodded your head. You suddenly felt embarrassed for being so mad at him.

“I’ve been waiting twenty years to do this, but can I kiss you?” He asked you, his bashful expression reappearing. You felt your cheeks heat up and the butterflies in your stomach as you nodded.

Within a moment, his lips were on yours. It was perfect. You had been dreaming of this day for over twenty years. You always assumed this moment would be underwhelming if it every happened, but you were wrong.

His lips fit perfectly in yours. They tasted like cinnamon. Your fingers laced through his hair, gently pulling on the soft strands. His hands gripped your hips, pulling you closer to him. You both pulled away with contagious smiles.

You felt a warmth beginning to pool between your legs. You wanted his lips on you forever; however, your high school reunion was hardly the place to have those thoughts.

You rested your head against his as you both continued to dance. After about ten minutes, you both were getting restless. His lips grazed over yours again, with a gentle, feather-like touch. “How about we get out of here?” He mumbled against your lips.

He noticed your eagerness as you quickly nodded. “We did just get here. I’d hate for you to not get to see everyone” he said, teasing you.

You shook your head. “You were the only one I was hoping to see tonight” you told him, honestly. With that permission, his hand was in yours, and he was pulling you towards the exit.

Within twenty minutes, you both were pulling up in front of his house. You both rushed inside, hand in hand. As soon as the door was closed, he pinned up against it. His lips were instantly on yours. He had an insatiable appetite that only you could satisfy.

“I have waited so long for this” he mumbled against your lips. Your lips were met in a messy kiss; both of you needy for the other’s touch. He grabbed at the back of your thighs, hiking one of your legs up to wrap around him.

“I can tell” you muttered, feeling his already-hard cock pressed up against your thigh. He jutted his hips into your own, desperate for some friction.

He let out a low groan as you tugged on his hair. He cupped your ass, pressing your body against his. You could feel the pressure building in your abdomen; your arousal pooling between your thighs. “Need you so bad, sweetheart” he begged for his release.

You spun him around and sunk to your knees. His mouth watered at the sight of you looking up at him through your eyelashes. You slowly started to undo his belt and then unzipped his pants. You tugged down his boxers, and his cock sprung free, leaking with precum.

You started slow, licking a stripe up his length. He threw his head back against the door as you repeated the action. “Fuck, honey” he moaned, breathlessly. You put his tip in your mouth, and ran your tongue around him. The salty taste overwhelmed your tastebuds.

You took in more of him, while massaging his balls with your hand. “You’re doin’ so good, fuck—right there” he moaned out. His hand found itself in your hair. He bobbed your head up and down.

“Feel so good—your pretty mouth wrapped around my cock” he moaned at the sight of you. You could feel his cock throbbing inside your mouth.

The tip of his cock brushed up against the back of your mouth. You swirled your tongue around his length. “I’m gonna—” he mumbled, before shooting his seed into your mouth. You swallowed and pulled your mouth off of him with a popping sound.

He grabbed your hand and tugged you towards his bedroom. “Let me repay you, sweetheart” he said, his eyes dark with lust. He tugged off the rest of his clothes and then moved to you. He unzipped your dress at a painstakingly slow pace. You shrugged it off your shoulders, letting it pool at your ankles.

He grabbed your hips and pulled you towards him. He laid down on the bed, pulling you with him. “You want to sit on my face, sweetheart?” He asked, and your stomach did a flip. You nodded, shyly.

He beckoned you closer to him. “Bet you taste so good” he said, kissing you. He pulled down your panties, letting you kick them off. Then, you positioned yourself over his head, holding onto the headboard.

He gripped your thighs and pulled you closer to him. With no warning, he licked a stripe through your folds. You tightened your grip on the headboard as a wave of pleasure ran through your body.

His tongue expertly drew figure eights. “Fuck, Chris” you moaned. He buried his face in between your legs. “I was right. You taste so good” he muttered.

He lightly sucked on your clit. “Right there—God” you mumbled, breathlessly. His tongue dove into your folds, his nose brushing up against your clit. You began to grind down on his face.

“That’s it, sweetheart” he praised, speeding up his pace. Your knuckles turned white as you clenched onto the headboard. You rocked your hips against his face. “I’m getting close” you said, feeling your approaching orgasm.

His beard scratched against the inside of your thighs, giving you the friction you craved. He mumbled words of praises, the vibrations going straight to your core. You continued to rock your hips, the coil in your stomach tightening.

He grabbed your thighs and pulled you even closer to his face, his tongue reaching deeper inside of you. “You gonna cum all over my face?” he asked, beginning to suck on your clit again.

The tight coil snapped as your orgasm washed over you. You continued to suck on your clit, making you squirm above him. He lapped up your juices and peppered kisses on the inside of your thighs.

You rolled off of him, and he met your lips with a kiss. You could taste yourself on his lips. “You did so good, honey” he said, smiling into the kiss.

His hands slipped behind your back and quickly unclasped your bra, letting it fall to the floor. “So gorgeous” he mumbled, massaging your breasts with his hands. You closed your eyes, trying to recover from your orgasm.

You felt something cold and wet. You opened your eyes and saw Chris sucking on one of your nipples, his tongue swirling around the hardened peak.

“Chris...I need you” you whined. He picked his head up to look at you, before crawling on top of your body. “Where do you need me, sweetheart?” He asked, brushing a piece of hair out of your face.

“Inside me—fuck. Please just fuck me” you begged him. He smirked to himself before kissing you again.

He gripped your hips and lined himself up. “Hurry up” you pleaded. He wore a cocky grin. You had waited years for this moment, and you didn’t think you could wait any longer. “So needy, baby” he said, before pushing his length into you.

He was much bigger than anyone you’d ever been with. “Shit—you’re so big” you moaned, adjusting to his size. He slowly pulled out and then thrusted into you again. “You’re so tight” he groaned, as he slowly pushed himself all the way inside of you. He lightly brushed up against your g-spot.

Once you adjusted to his length, he began to thrust in and out of you. You wrapped your legs around his waist, letting him reach even deeper inside of you.

The sounds of soft groans and your skin slapping against Chris’ filled the room. You pulled his face towards you and kissed him. He moaned into your mouth, loving the way you felt around him.

“Am I filling you up good, honey?” He asked, pounding into you. You were a whimpering mess under him. “Yes—fuck, so good” you moaned, biting down on your lip.

You balled the sheets up in your hands as you got closer and closer to your peak. With a new determination, he sped up his pace. “Almost there” he muttered. Your eyes rolled back as he repeatedly hit your g-spot. “Look at me. I want to watch you fall apart” he told you, prompting you to open your eyes.

His fingers found your clit and drew tight circles. Your walls clenched down on his cock. You could feel him twitch inside of you, and then felt him cum.

“You can do it, sweetheart” he said, continuing to push into you. With that, your orgasm washed over you. He slowed his pace as he felt your pussy pulsing around him. You both breathed heavily as you came down from your highs.

He rolled off of you and laid there speechless. You propped yourself up on your elbows and looked over at him. “That was...wow” he said, cupping your face and pulling you in for a kiss.

He wrapped his arm around your shoulders, pulling you into his side. “I’m really glad that I ran into you tonight” he whispered in your ear. You nodded your head, agreeing with him.

“Imagine telling our high school selves that this would happen” you said, softly giggling to yourself. You felt his chest shake as he laughed. “I think I would have lost my mind. I never would have believed that I’d end up with the girl of my dreams” he said, beaming down at you.

“Well I never would have believed that one of the most popular boys at school liked me back” you said, drawing shapes on his chest.

“Yeah, we’re both pretty lucky” he said, kissing your temple.

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[randomvarious]

Nuyorican Soul - “I Am The Black Gold Of The Sun (4 Hero Mix)” Science Fiction Jazz Volume Three by Minus 8 Song released in 1997. Compilation released in 1998.  Future Jazz / Broken Beat / Soul-Jazz

From critic Daryl Easlea:

The brainchild of Masters at Work, Kenny ‘Dope’ Gonzalez and 'Little’ Louie Vega, Nuyorican Soul was an outlet for the house producers’ jazzier, old-school tendencies. Picked up [by] Gilles Peterson’s Talkin’ Loud Imprint, the album created an enormous impact across UK radios throughout 1996 and 97.

By taking a collection of well-chosen covers and sympathetically written new material and working with an array of fine guest artists (such as George Benson, Eddie Palmieri, Tito Puente, Roy Ayers, Hilton Ruiz and Vincent Montana Jr), Vega and Gonzalez fashioned an album — designed as a box of fine Cuban cigars — that celebrated their Puerto Rican roots. But at the same time, it was a symphony to the New York street.

The album was how many people first encountered Rotary Connection’s [“]I Am the Black Gold of the Sun[”].Sung by Jocelyn Brown, it reclaimed her from the handbag house she’d be voicing for years and proved that she was one of the most powerful soul vocalists working.

Inexplicably, neither appearing on that incredible all-star lineup of a Puerto Rican future soul-jazz album nor its re-release that consisted of an extra disc of remixes is this superb eight-and-a-half minute remix of “I Am the Black Gold of the Sun” by London breakbeat legends 4hero. Half a rehashing of the original that strips out all of Jocelyn Brown’s solo lead vocal and half deep broken beat / drum n bass pattering, this extended remix not only gives an excellent revisit to the underappreciated psychedelic soul band that provided late 60s backing to both Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf, but it also links with the contemporaneous present with its combinations of breakbeating snare strands and bass plunks on the back end. It’s a one-two punch that begins with a rendition of some soul-puncturing classic soul-jazz and follows up with a newer method to pierce the soul: lightly punching and thumping electronic percussion.

Very confused as to why this remix wasn’t included on the re-release of the Nuyorican Soul album. The 12-inch that it originally appeared on was never sold in the States either, unless as an import. And the comp I discovered it on, DJ Minus 8’s Science Fiction Jazz Volume Three, was only sold in Germany and Switzerland. I mean, this is one of my most favorite songs of all time. See, this is why I go hunting for comps that weren’t released in the US. There’s plenty of gold to mine here, but that black gold of the sun evidently lays in further reaches 😅.

[ienjoywallpaper]

Yet More SDV Grandpa

Still going with Chuck and Charlotte. Lots of feels in this one. I wrote it initially for using the Inktober week-long prompts by @buttonso (Dance of the Moonlight Jellies) Enjoy, or don't... But I hope you do ;)

When coming up with this story, I ended up doing a LOT of mental math and figuring out timeline for not only my own farmer, but also my farmer's parents. While it's never expressly stated, I determined Chuck and Charlotte got married in 1947 (Chuck was 21 and Charlotte was 19). This fic takes place in 1962, the year my farmer's mother was born...

(PS: it's on the long side for what I write, but nearly half the length of the next one I plan on posting. Just a heads up.)

Dance of the Moonlight Jellies

By: ienjoywallpaper Word Count: 2308

Summer 22

"CHARLES FRANKLIN LOWELL! GET YOUR MUDDY BOOTS OFF MY CLEAN FLOOR!" Charlotte screamed. She side-eyed the offending footwear. More than likely that's not even mud, and I'm definitely not touching them if that's the case. She crossed her arms as Chuck entered the room, smug as you please.

"Oh, darlin', a little dirt never hurt anyone." Charlotte rolled her eyes.

"Except your dirt is more likely scat. Now make like a dung beetle and get that dirt a-rollin'! I have to go see the doc." Charlotte brushed back her hair and smoothed down her dress. Chuck raised an eyebrow.

"You sick, darlin'? Want me to go with you?" Concern colored his voice. Charlotte waved her hand dismissively.

"No need, just a checkup." She hated lying to Chuck, but this wouldn't be the first time in the nearly 14 years they'd been married she had gotten her hopes up for no reason. No need to dash his hopes also. She smiled and kissed him on the cheek. "When I'm done at the doctor's, I'm gonna go check on Evie. She's had a rough couple of weeks with little Frank, and Simon and Louise have been of no help. I thought I might go visit and see if I can help with the baby at all." Chuck nodded.

"I'm sure George and Evie appreciate that. Give the kids hugs from uncle Chuck." He wrapped a hand around Charlotte's waist and planted a kiss solidly on her lips. As he pulled away, he grinned playfully. "And that was for you, but if you wanna pass it on to Georgie, I certainly wouldn't complain." He let out a deep belly laugh and Charlotte smacked his arm, disapprovingly glaring up at him.

"Oh, Chuck!" The humor behind her glare made it into her voice. "What am I going to do with you?" She half-smiled as he pulled her into an embrace.

"I already know that, darlin'. You're gonna love me forever." He kissed her forehead and she sighed.

"I suppose. But you don't make it easy." Chuck pulled away, his eyes gleaming with humor.

"Ah, but that's the secret. If it were easy, It wouldn't be fun." Charlotte shook her head and attempted to hold back a smile. Like usual, she failed. She kissed him tenderly then pushed away.

"Despite my better judgement, I love you Chuck." She picked up her handbag and checked her hair one last time. "I'll see you tonight."

"Don't forget, give that love to Georgie Boy, Evie and the kids." Charlotte shook her head and laughed as she walked out the door.

***

"Good afternoon, Mrs. Lowell." Doctor Benson smiled warmly as he entered the exam room. "How is Chuck and everything on the farm?" Charlotte twisted a handkerchief nervously.

"Oh, everyone's fine. Chuck is…" she chuckled softly, "Chuck is the same as always." Doctor Benson nodded.

"But, we're not here to talk about Chuck, we’re here to talk about Charlotte. What seems to be the trouble?" Charlotte worried her lip and twisted her handkerchief tighter.

"Well, Doc, I seem to be… past due for… my courses." He nodded.

"I see… well, Mrs. Lowell, how tardy are they?"

"A few weeks, maybe a month, best I can tell. I never gave them much mind after so long." Charlotte hung her head and rubbed her arm. "I suppose I figured they'd come when they come like they always did. I've been nauseous and uncommonly tired too." Doctor Benson pulled a chair over and sat down closer to eye level with Charlotte.

"I know how much you and Chuck have wanted children, Charlotte. You're only 32. Women older than you have healthy babies every day, if that's what you're worried about." He patted her hand, "I've got a test I can do. It can take a few days, and it is a little pricey, but we should know for sure before the moonlight jellies." Charlotte considered this and sighed, a heaviness dragging on her heart.

"I want to know so bad, Doc. But it's been 14 years, don't you think if we could have children, it would have happened by now? I just don't want to waste your time and our money if it's just going to be a stomach flu." Tears stung the back of Charlotte's eyes. The years of shame and questions flooded her mind. "Have you tried…?" "Don't you want kids?" "Who's gonna carry on the farm when you're gone?" "When are we getting grandchildren?" "You know what your duties are…" Like she had any control in the matter. Were it up to Charlotte, she and Chuck would have had an entire gridball team of children by now. Apparently, that was not in the cards for them.

"I won't force you to have the test, Charlotte. But in my professional opinion, you should try. If you are in the family way, the sooner you know, the better care you can receive and the higher the chance both of you stay healthy." Charlotte dabbed her eyes with the handkerchief, small bits of mascara wiping away with the tears.

"I know you're right, Paul, but… I don't want to be let down again." She looked up at him and his face softened.

"I think you might be more afraid if it comes back positive. For what it's worth, I think you and Chuck will be great role models. Whether for your own children, or otherwise." It wasn't exactly the pep talk she wanted, but Charlotte knew the doctor meant well. She took a deep breath.

"Ok, doc. Let's do it. What do I have to do?" He stood and opened a cupboard behind him, pulling out a small cup with a twist-on lid.

“I’m going to need a urine sample. The restroom is around the corner and to your left. Just screw the top on and bring it back to me when you’re finished.” He handed the cup to Charlotte and moved to open the door. Charlotte stood.

“I realize this is probably a silly question, but… you aren’t going to tell Chuck about this, are you?” Paul gave her a gentle smile.

“He’s your husband, I’ll leave you to tell him what he needs to know.” She nodded and headed to the restroom.

***

Summer 28

Charlotte couldn't remember a time when she was more sick. She was nauseous, sure, but it went beyond that. Hiding the nature of her visit to Doctor Benson from Chuck all week had been a chore, and the stress was starting to eat away at her. She just wanted the results to come in from the test, then she could relax and maybe the nausea and anxious headaches would ease up. Chuck seemed aware of her state of mind, but not the cause, and Charlotte wanted to keep it that way.

"Chuck, I washed your beach clothes yesterday. I laid them on the bed. Please, try not to get any more mysterious stains on them this time." Chuck peeked around the corner and smirked.

"Now, Darlin', what sorts of mysterious stains could they possibly get layin' on the bed… without help that is?" He wiggled his eyebrows. Charlotte rolled her eyes and attempted to hide a smile behind a disapproving frown.

"Oh Charles, you stop that! We're getting ready to go in public, for Yoba's sake!" Chuck laughed and walked over to where Charlotte stood at her dresser. He wrapped his arms around her and grinned.

"My dear Mrs. Lowell, I have no idea what you think I was referrin' to, but if you're willin' to invoke the name of Yoba, it must be quite scandalous." Charlotte sighed and tried to turn back to her mirror. Chuck let her turn and held her from behind, gazing at their reflections. "Have I told you how lucky I am to have you?" Charlotte blushed.

"You sure about that, my dear?"

"Darlin', I've been sure since the moment I first locked eyes with you."

"And then I smacked you across your face…" Charlotte smirked. He chuckled and nuzzled against her neck

"Ah, but what a lucky smack it was. Knocked some sense into this stubborn head and made a man outta me." Charlotte frowned and Chuck considered her profile. "Hey, why the long face?"

"Do you ever regret marrying me because we can't have a family?" She whispered. Chuck pulled away and turned her to face him, lifting her face to look into her eyes.

"Hey, now, we are a family. Anyone who says otherwise doesn't know the meaning of the word." Tears stung the backs of Charlotte's eyes.

"But don't you wish we had what George and Evelyn have?" Chuck gave her a lopsided smile.

"But, we do. Yeah, sure, they have a few extra passengers. But just because we don't yet, doesn't mean a thing, darlin'." He kissed her gently on the forehead. "If you're the only car on this train for the rest of my life, I'm one lucky son of a gun." Charlotte smiled, but her mind caught on the word "yet" and another wave of guilty nausea passed over her. "What brought this on, darlin'? Too much hanging around Frank last week?"

"Maybe," Charlotte shook her head, "Anyway, don't mind me. I'm being a silly woman." She pushed Chuck's chest and turned back to her mirror. "Now go on and get ready or we'll be late for the lantern lighting!" Light laughter rumbled in Chuck's chest.

"Yes ma'am."

***

The entire town turned out for the dance of the moonlight jellies every year - it was one of Charlotte's favorite nights. Getting to watch the eerie, captivating glow of the jellies as they seemed to be carried by the waves - and yet drifted in their own direction. George and Evelyn waved from their spot on the dock as Simon and Louise ran off with the other local children toward the tide pools. Chuck laughed and sped up his pace to go chat with his friend while Charlotte hung back. The sun had set on the walk to the beach and the floating candles twinkled in the fading twilight. She watched them bobbing on the waves and reflected on the previous week.

"Good evening, Mrs. Lowell." Doctor Benson's voice broke her reverie. She smiled.

"Good evening. You know, outside the office you don't have to be so formal." He nodded.

"Oh, I'm aware… but, this is a bit of an official visit." Charlotte's stomach twisted anxiously.

"Paul, if it's bad news, I don't want to hear it. You can send me a letter like any other patient. This is my favorite night of the year and I won't have it ruined." She crossed her arms and stared intensely out over the quickly-darkening horizon. Paul laid his hand on her shoulder and tears welled up in her eyes, waiting for the apology.

"Mrs. Lowell… your results came back positive… Charlotte, You're going to be a mother." Charlotte reeled, not believing what she was hearing.

"I'm sorry… what did you just say?" He smiled gently, his eyes crinkling behind his glasses.

"Pelican Town's population is about to go up by one." In that moment, Charlotte's world shifted. They were going to have a baby. More tears streamed down her face - tears of joy. She dabbed at her face and hugged Dr. Benson around his neck. He chuckled and patted her back. "Now, that's enough of that. I'll have Celia schedule you some appointments for the coming months, but we can discuss that later. For now, I think it's time for you to make your favorite night just a little bit brighter for a certain farmer." Charlotte let go and turned to run down the dock.

"THANK YOU DOCTOR BENSON!" she called behind her as she ran. She wove between the villagers and families looking for any sign of Chuck. She spotted him standing next to the mayor with a big grin on his face holding a skinny, lit candle. The mayor waved a flag to get everyone's attention.

"It has been another successful year for Pelican Town, and as we welcome our aquatic visitors, I would like to wish everyone good luck in the coming season. This year, our favorite local farmer, Chuck Lowell, will have the honor of setting off the lantern-boat that invites the jellies to shore. Without further delay, launch that boat!" Charlotte watched as Chuck grinned and lit the lantern in the small boat and cut the tie, launching it out into the bay. She approached and took his hand as they watched the glow of the jellies slowly move toward shore.

"I didn't know you were going to launch the boat this year, my dear." She whispered as he put his arm around her shoulders.

"I didn't either. Mayor Pommert asked me to do it. Obviously, I jumped at the chance. I know how much you love this night." He looked down at her and kissed her temple. "Happy Anniversary, darlin'."

"Happy Anniversary, Chuck. I have a bit of an extra gift for you." Chuck cocked his head.

"Do ya, now? Been holding out on me, Mrs. Lowell?" He chuckled. Charlotte shook her head and giggled.

"Not intentionally. Chuck I-" she stopped as a group of jellyfish gathered near their feet, lighting the area in a calming, green glow. She looked back up at Chuck, overwhelmed with happiness. She took a breath. "We're going to have a baby." Chuck blinked. For a moment, Charlotte thought he was upset, but then a wide, genuine smile broke his face and tears formed in the corners of his eyes. He pulled her close and kissed her deeply, not caring there was a crowd of people witness to this private moment of sheer bliss. And as the jellies glowed in the water below, not one of them shone as brightly as Charlotte's heart did.

[houseofmonasblog-blog]

HOUSE OF MONA is the best shopping brand at your fingertips... You are only one request away from your desired perfumes,body spray and oil perfumes handbags,shoes,cloths, hair wig,weavon,makeup and many more... Instagram handle @house_of_mona and monas_fragrance. Facebook @monalisa Benson Call/WhatsApp: 08105615523 Just a DM,we're at your doorstep😌😌 (at Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria) https://www.instagram.com/p/B6AplWslDOj/?igshid=ywaqig9a1von

[stinkylittleboiii]

A very handsome rotund boi and their new pin

[egoldenretriever]

Mom Brings New Puppy At The House, And The Older Dog’S Response Is Going To Take Your Heart Away

There is nothing at all, which make us more cheerful than a dog with a giant giddy smile. How may you remain in a bad temper once you’ve got a lovely pup gazing right at you along with a grin on their face? It isn’t humanly possible! Yet occasionally, we have gotta give back. That dog gets a puppy gift as a thank you for being so cute.

That is precisely what one family has done, they chose to grant their very own dog a puppy surprise, and it is melting all of our hearts.

It is well known that this caring family has the amazing good doggy; therefore, they would like to provide them the very best surprise feasible. Their dog is always caring and kind and enjoys having hugs.

Honestly, that is why they desired to let this beautiful golden pup have the chance to spread a bit more love.

Their beautiful golden retriever, Lulu, is such a pleased dog, yet she’s going to become a whole lot happier.

The family had just got themselves a little puppy. An additional golden retriever named Benson. As excited as they were, they recognized Lulu would end up being on cloud nine. Therefore they chose to surprise her with the idea.

Lulu sits straight down with patience while her human mom gets into the room with a giant handbag. At that time, Lulu spots her new very little sibling. You can observe how giddy she actually is as she begins running around the surrounding.

Both dogs would be the best of pals – a cheerful family all over.

Just how lovable can this be? It is well known that it’s not just human beings that love getting surprised with a puppy dog. Dogs are actually equally as excited to be given a new best pal to adore and play with.

Do not forget to observe this stunning dog gets a puppy surprise in the video beneath. Likewise, at egoldenretriever.com we appreciate experiencing all of your thoughts. Therefore please let us know whatever you thought of the content inside the comment section below.

Credit

source https://egoldenretriever.com/mom-brings-new-puppy-at-the-house-and-the-older-dogs-response-is-going-to-take-your-heart-away/

[hlkmnp]

Cole Haan Handbags Cole Haan Benson Leather Continental Zip Wallet $180.00 $51.98 71% off Event ends in 2 days https://www.pntrs.com/t/SENKSE9OS09DR0lGT0ZPQ0dIRk1PSA

[kingsmakers]

❛❛ Please stay with me tonight. I don’t want to be alone. ❜❜ Frankie & Elijah because girl needs a guy like this ;)

Frankie was wasted by the time she left the Whyte Wyrm. Wasted with no way home and no money. Cursing under her breath, she pried off her heels and cast around the place. She really wasn’t interested in getting a lift from a Serpent in return for some kind of favour. She groaned and tilted her head back. Once again, she’d gotten herself into a real mess.

“You need a lift?” The familiar male voice made Frankie spin around, her tense shoulders slumping in relief as Elijah Benson strode over to her. The young Serpent was probably one of the few decent guys on the south side, and if there was anyone Frankie could trust to take her home and not expect anything in return, it was Elijah.

“That would be amazing.” Frankie dumped her heels in her handbag. “Did you come on your bike?”

“Nah, I brought the car.” Elijah indicated the vehicle in question, taking his keys out of his pocket and unlocking his car. Frankie slipped into the front seat, wishing she hadn’t had so much to drink but grateful that she had a way home after all.

She kept the window down on the drive home, relishing the feeling of the cool air on her face. By the time they reached her place, Elijah turned off the engine and turned to glance at her, raising his eyebrows.

“You need help getting inside? You seem pretty drunk.”

“Maybe a little,” Frankie admitted, easing herself out of the passenger seat. She stumbled up to the front door and fumbled with the keys for a few moments, before Elijah gently took them from her and unlocked the door with a soft click. Once inside, he set her handbag down on the kitchen bench and helped her get to her room.

He was even a gentleman about it, going to get her some aspirin and a glass of water while she changed into her pyjamas. Once she was decent, he walked in and set them on the bedside table, stuffing his hands into the pockets of his leather Southside Serpent jacket.

“Need anything else?”

“Please stay with me tonight.” Frankie collapsed against the pillows, not really looking forward to the idea of being in an empty house. “I don’t want to be alone.”

“I think I can manage that.” Elijah gave her another charming smile, slipping off his jacket and boots before flopping onto the bed beside her. Frankie curled on her side with a smile of her own, feeling content in the knowledge that while Elijah was there, she was safe.

[alvskat]

below the cut are lil descriptions of my precious children for anyone that is new and wants to plot or anyone that just totally forgot i was a thing from my long hiatus!! just like this and i’ll come to your messages!!

cordelia genevieve von jenner (gigi hadid fc) - 21;; art major, fashion design minor;; aries;; queen bitch;; cordelia grew up in beverly hills, california with literally everything she could have ever wanted. her family is like the kardashians of beverly hills. everyone thinks they’re perfect, but she really has a shitty home life. her dad is never around--he’s always partying or with clients--and her mom is rarely around and when she is, she’s extremely critical of her daughter and offers her free plastic surgery to help fix her daughter’s “flaws.” cordelia was mainly raised by nannies. she goes through men like she goes through handbags, constantly falling in and out of love for the wrong reasons. she’s been cheated on by every person she’s ever dated. she’s kind of a huge bitch when it comes to things, and she says like more than she blinks, but in all reality, she isn’t a bad person. just confused and sad and especially lonely. she’s also the most airheaded person you’ll ever fuckin’ meet. when in doubt, remember that she’s basically a mix of cher from clueless and serena from gossip girl tbh.

margot avery benson (nina dobrev fc) - 21;; pre-med major;; leo;; the sweetheart;; margot is probably one of the kindest people that anyone has ever met. she cares about people to an extreme degree. she’s competitive to a fault, headstrong, and never without a smile on her face. she’s also the biggest klutz known to man and tends to make awkward situations 200x more awkward than they need be. she’s the second oldest of four siblings--the eldest of whom recently died in a tragic car accident over the summer. this really affected margot’s world negatively and made her re-evaluate things. she was dating a boy that now goes to nyu with her for a very long time--they were high school sweethearts and everyone thought they would go on to be together forever--but after her sister’s death, she immediately pulled away from him, breaking up with him because she realized she hadn’t gotten to experience much of life without a boyfriend. basically, her purpose is now to feel as alive as possible and be the best person she can be the next two years she has of school.

rowan scott vitto (jeremy allen white fc) - 21;; journalism major;; capricorn;; the stoic stoner;; rowan is a party monster, honestly, and has a love for the green stuff. overall, he’s not so much different from his frat brothers--he parties, he sleeps around--but he is a kind, poetic soul at heart. he spends most of his time reading old literature and writing his own poetry. he has two younger sisters, chloe and venus, who he protects like no other. his father is a little out there as a person and, in turn, so is he. they’re a close family for the most part, but the death of their mom really took its toll on all of them. when he’s graduated, rowan wants to get a job as a news reporter for the new york times and pursues this by being co-editor of the school newspaper. he’s ambitious and romantic and just the sweetest lil southern gentleman  you’ll ever see in your life. he’s also ridiculously rich and is very giving because of it, as he knows that not everyone has the same opportunities as he does.

waverly renee heart (cher lloyd fc) - 19;; music tech major;; scorpio;; the virtuoso;; waverly is a free spirit to say the least. she grew up in a small town in pennsylvania and absolutely hated it. everyone there was closed-minded and, as a proud and out bisexual who had dated women frequently, it never sat right with her the things that were said there. her parents have always been supportive of who she was and she’s particularly close with her mom. she has never really been school smart, but discovered that she had a natural talent for music when she was very young. she was practically a prodigy and could learn (and has learned) any instrument that she’s set her mind to. naturally, her love for music grew and her hatred for school work did as well. most of her time is spent mixing new tracks instead of paying attention to her studies. she djs right now on the weekends for various clubs in the area and sings at a restaurant in the city on week nights to earn some extra cash, but she really wants to be in los angeles one day spinning professionally. until then, she’s partying away her days at college.

dylan helena jones (eliza taylor fc) - 20;; biology major;; aries;; the reformed bad girl;; dylan’s gone through a lot in her years of life, despite her young age. she has a twin sister that she doesn’t know exists. when she was a teenager, she came out to her parents as gay and, the religious folk that they were, they promptly kicked her out. she moved to california to live with her aunt and cousin until she left for university. she still goes back on breaks and what not. for a while, she was the rebellious type, trying every single type of drug and alcohol that she could get her hands on, but that didn’t last. over the summer, she overdosed on pills by accident and was rushed to the emergency room. she went to therapy for a while and doesn’t really fuck with drugs or drinking anymore, afraid of a repeat. her aunt and cousin are incredibly protective over her now with everything that’s happened and she’s trying to keep herself in check, as well. she’s tight-lipped about what happened and hasn’t really told anyone unless they’re incredibly close to her. she just wants to do well at this point and make up for the time in her life she spent giving everyone a heart attack and just being a bad kid, but reform is hard when all your old influences are coming back out to play as the semester starts up.

[houseofmonasblog-blog]

HOUSE OF MONA is the best shopping brand at your fingertips... You are only one request away from your desired perfumes,body spray and oil perfumes handbags,shoes,cloths, hair wig,weavon,makeup and many more... Instagram handle @house_of_mona and monas_fragrance. Facebook @monalisa Benson Call/WhatsApp: 08105615523 Just a DM,we're at your doorstep😌😌 (at Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria) https://www.instagram.com/p/B6ApZLql2C9/?igshid=e7foxynw1hvm

[356mission]

List of individuals and groups who have participated in an event at 356 Mission

LeanThe New Dreamz (Rose Luardo and Andrew Jeffrey Wright)

Andre Hyland

Whitmer Thomas

Jessica Ciocci

Michael Webster

Asha Schechter

Gabu Heindl & Drehli Robnik (screening)

Rachel Kushner (with parts read by Barry Johnston, Gale Harold, Karen Adelman, Paul Gellman, Stuart Krimko, Stanya Kahn, Alex Israel, Milena Muzquiz)

Mina Stone

Ken Ehrlich & Emily Joyce

Flora Wiegmann with Alexa Wier

James Lee Byars (screening)

Trisha Brown (screening)

Ei Arakawa (screening)

Jennifer Phiffer

Euan MacDonald and Henri Lucas

Fundación Alumnos47

ForYourArt

Derek Boshier

Alex Kitnick

Cherry Pop

De Porres

Aaron Dilloway

Jason Lescalleet

John Wiese

Final Party (Barry Johnston)

Crazy Band

Aram Moshayedi

Bruce Hainley

Gary Dauphin

Kathryn Garcia

Leland de la Durantaye

Sohrab Mohebbi

Tala Madani

Tiffany Malakooti

Negar Azimi

Barbara T. Smith

LeRoy Stevens

Joe Sola and Michael Webster

Math Bass and Lauren Davis Fisher

Angel Diez Alvarez (screening)

Hedi El Kholti

K8 Hardy

Anna Sew Hoy

L.A. Fog

Trinie Dalton

Rita Gonzalez

Alex Klein

Mark Owens

Tanya Rubbak

AL Steiner

C.R.A.S.H.

Lao

Mexican Jihad

Zak-Matic

Laura Poitras (screening)

Parker Higgins

Domenick Ammirati

John Seal

John Tain

Bruce Hainley

Lisa Lapinski

Kate Stewart

Sarah Lehrer-Graiwer

Ian Svenonius

Entrance Band

Allison Wolfe

Geneva Jacuzzi

Chain & the Gang

Shivas

Hunx

Jimi Hey

69

Tim Lokiec

Scott & Tyson Reeder

Total Freedom

Prince William

Kingdom

SFV Acid

Jesse Fleming

William Leavitt

Lucas Blalock

Oliver Payne

Meredith Monk

Jessica Espeleta

Rollo Jackson (screening)

Jack Smith (screening)

Noura Wedell

Sylvère Lotringer

Jesse Benson

Zoe Crosher

Alex Cecchetti

Patricia Fernandez

Jeff Khonsary

Ben Lord

Shana Lutker

Joseph Mosconi

Suzy Newbury

Scott Oshima

Kim Schoen

Clarissa Tossin

Mark Verabioff

Brica Wilcox

Michael Clark

Ben Brunnemer

Ted Byrnes / Corey Fogel

Kirsty Bell

Johnston Marklee

Emily Sundblad & Matt Sweeney

Kevin Salatino

Wooster Group (screening)

Shannon Ebner

East of Borneo

Sue Tompkins

Alexis Taylor

Leslie Buchbinder (screening)

Odwalla88

Dean Spunt

Bebe Whypz

Saman Moghadam (screening)

J Cush

Hive Dwellers

Bouquet

Dream Boys

Jen Smith

Thee Oh Sees

Jack Name

Alex Waterman and Will Holder

Jonathan Horowitz

Ali Subotnick

Brian Calvin

Dean Wareham

Gracie DeVito

Indah Datau

Jake DeVito

Sara Gomez

Luke Harris

Sarah Johnson

Julia Leonard

Jillian Risigari-Gai

Joseph Tran

George Kuchar (screening)

Andrew Lampert

Reach LA

Oscar Tuazon

Black Dice

Danny Perez

Avey Tare

Shinzen Young

Jesse Fleming and Lewis Pesacov

Mecca Vazie Andrews

Mira Billotte

Julian Ceccaldi

Oldest (Brooks Headley & Mick Barr)

DJ Andy Coronado

François Ceysson

Amanda Ross-Ho

Raphael Rubinstein

Wallace Whitney

Bradford Nordeen

Chris Kraus

Samuel Dunscombe & Curt Miller

Jay Chung

Lev Kalman & Whitney Horn (screening)

Maricón Collective

The Shhh 

Alice Bag 

Martin Sorrondeguy

Sex Stains

Kevin Hegge (screening)

Rhonda Lieberman

Lisa Anne Auerbach

David Benjamin Sherry

Eric Wesley

Tamara Shopsin, Jason Fulford, and Brooks Headley

Deborah Hay

Becky Edmunds (screening)

Kath Bloom

Erin Durant

Ben Vida

Charles Atlas

Laurie Weeks

Kerry Tribe

Renée Green

Fred Moten

The Office of Culture and Design / Hardworking Goodlooking

YUK, MNDSGN, and AHNUU

PATAO

Michael Biel

Mark Von Schlegell

Graham Lambkin

Lex Brown

Jibade-Khalil Huffman

Dan Levenson

Sarah Mattes

Carmen Winant

Gloria Sutton

John Musilli (screening)

Pieter Schoolwerth and Alexandra Lerman (screening)

Nate Young

Safe Crackers

Frances Stark

Liliana Porter (screening)

Adam Linder

Corazon del Sol

Gary Cannone

Ben Caldwell

Jacqueline Frazier

Jan-Christopher Horak

Haile Gerima (screening)

Barbara McCullough (screening)

Jon Pestoni

Andrew Cannon

David Fenster

Dick Pics

Seth Bogart

Lonnie Holley

Rudy Garcia

Dynasty Handbag

Christine Stormberg

Anthony Valdez

Kate Mosher Hall

JJ Stratford

Diana Adzhaketov

DJs Cole MGN and Nite Jewel

Casey Jane Ellison

Gary Indiana + Walter Steding

Kate Durbin

Michael Silverblatt

Hamza Walker

Wynne Greenwood

Robert Morris

Maggie Lee (screening)

Brendan Fowler

Susan Cianciolo

Aaron Rose

John Boskovich (screening)

Michel Auder (screening)

Lauren Campedelli, Leo Marks, and Jan Munroe

Klang Association feat. Anna Homler (Breadwoman), Jorge Martin, Jeff Schwartz

sodapop

Hoseh

Miles Cooper Seaton & Heather McIntosh

Drip City

Geologist

Deaken

Brian Degraw

$3.33

Angela Seo

George Jensen

Carole Kim & Jesse Gilbert & Friends

Aledandra Pelly

dublab

Mariko Munro

Emily Jane Rosen

Lana Rosen

Max Syron

Mark Morrisroe (screening)

Ramsey McPhillips

Stuart Comer

Jordan Wolfson

Kiva Motnyk

Samara Golden

Sam Ashley

John Krausbauer

Kate Valk

Elizabeth LeCompte

Lewis Klahr

Barbara Kasten

Martine Syms

Margo Victor

Studioo Manueel Raaeder

Mary Farley

Wayne Koestenbaum

Jibz Cameron

Sean Daly

Kendra Sullivan

Trinh T. Minh-ha

Johanna Breiding + Jennifer Moon

Tisa Bryant

Cog•nate Collective (Misael G Diaz + Amy Y Sanchez-Arteaga)

Bridget Cooks

Michelle Dizon

Anne Ellegood

Shoghig Halajian

Katherine Hubbard

Simon Leung

Amanda McGough + Tyler Matthew Oyer

Dylan Mira

Litia Perta

Eden’s Herbals

Matt Connors

Flat Worms

Susan

Lucky Dragons

Dos Mega

David Korty

Monica Majoli

Forrest Nash

Sophie von Olfers

Rudolf Eb.er

dave phillips

Joke Lanz

The Dog Star Orchestra

The Edge of Forever (Elizabeth Cline + Lewis Pesacov)

Lutz Bacher (screening)

Agnes Martin (screening)

Marisa Takal

Moyra Davey (screening)

Suzanna Zak

Wu Tsang, boychild and Patrick Belaga

Snake Jé

VIP

Fictitious Business DBA The Geminis

DJ M.Suarez

Asmara

Weirdo Dave

Mission Chinese

Veronica Gonzalez Peña

Thomas Bayrle

Bernhard Schreiner

Bob Nickas

The Cactus Store / Christian Herman Cummings

Atelier E.B

Iman Issa

Diana Nawi

Sqirl

Downtown Women’s Center

Earthjustice

Juvenile Justice Clinic at Loyola Law School

Loyola Immigrant Justice Clinic

N.eed O.rganize W.ork

Planned Parenthood

SoCal 350 Climate Action

St. Athanasius

WriteGirl

Sean/Milan

John Santos

Thomas Davis

Twisted Mindz

Adrienne Adams

Evan Kent 

Jasmine McCloud 

Gia Banks

Ace Farren Ford

Dennis Mehaffey

Fredrik Nilsen

Paul McCarthy

Joe Potts

Rick Potts

Tom Recchion

Vetza

Oliver Hall

Rigo 23

Gil Kenan & Vice Cooler (screening)

Cassie Griffin

Clara Cakes

Clay Tatum + Whitmer Thomas (Power Violence)

DJ AshTreJinkins

DJs Protectme

Crush

Sara Knox Hunter

Dodie Bellamy

Miranda July

Alexander Keefe

Thomas Keenan

Kevin Killian

Silke Otto-Knapp

Calypso Jete, Essence Jete Monroe, Virginia X, Leandra Rose, Naomi Befierce, Tori Perfection, Foxie Adjuis

Brontez Purnell

Kate Wolf

Adam Soch (screening)

Dar A Luz

ADSL Camels

Cold Beat

Tropic Green

No Sesso

Michelle Carrillo

Ruth Root

Timothy Ochoa

[sommertagshimmelblau]

Speak now

A/N: This is the second part of my Sonny Carisi x reader fic. Read part 1 here. I wanna thank @ghostofachancewithyou and @portal-cat for their support. Without them I wouldn’t have written a single word of this. I’m sorry if there are any errors. I tried my best. T/W: mentions of assault and violence and a lot angst words: 2278

I had to spend another day at the hospital, until the doctors told me that I was well enough to go home. I might have been physically okay, but I didn’t feel fine at all. When I went home I kind of expected Sonny to be waiting for me or maybe a note on the kitchen table, but nothing. No Sonny. No note.

I came home to an empty apartment with an even emptier kitchen table. The only thing that was waiting for me was my black cat, meowing at me. “At least you’re here, cat,” I said while petting him, “Did you miss me?” I tossed my dufflebag in the corner. I felt awful, so I decided to take a shower in order to make me feel better.

The hot water helped me to wash off what had happened at the bar. I finally started to relax a little. After the long hot shower, I put on some comfy clothes and lied down on the couch, cuddled up with a blanket and my cat. He sensed my misery and tried to calm me by nudging me with his little head. I felt okay now and I could finally get some sleep. When I woke up, I saw that someone had left a voicemail on my phone.

“Hi, Y/N. This is Lieutenant Benson. I hope you’re doing fine. Please call me, we need your testimony about the other night. Have a nice day.”

For some stupid reason I started to cry immediately after listening to the message. Maybe it was the gravity of the situation sinking in, maybe it was that I wished to hear Sonny’s voice instead of Benson’s. It was all too much. After an eternity the tears finally started to dry, so I felt like I had enough strength to call Benson. I picked up the phone, dialed and waited.

“Benson. SVU.”

“Hello Miss Benson, it’s Y/N. You said you wanted to talk to me.”

“Yes. I’m glad you called. I hope, you’re okay.”

“I am okay,” I said, trying to sound optimistic.

“I’m happy to hear that. So, Y/N, what I wanted to talk to you about, is that we need your testimony. We need you to tell the ADA what happened at the bar,” explained Benson.

“Okay. Do I need to come to the precinct?”, I asked.

“Yes. It would be good, if you could come over today, if you feel well enough. Otherwise you -”

“I’m gonna come over today,” I interrupted her, “When shall I be there?”

“In about an hour. Great. See you. Bye,” she said and hung up.

Gathering all my strength, I got up, put some nice clothes and a little make-up on.

When I came to the precinct, Benson was already waiting for me.

“Hey, there you are,” she greeted me.

I smiled, but my eyes immediately searched the room for Sonny, who was nowhere to be found. There were only Amanda sitting at her desk and a man in a suit standing next to her. I didn’t know him. Benson and I walked to him and she introduced me to the man.

“Mr. Barba, this is Y/N, Carisi’s brave friend without whom we never would have been able to catch the perp.”

“ADA Rafael Barba,” said the man, introducing himself to me, “I’m ready for you to make a statement, are you ready?”

I nodded. Then we walked into Benson’s office. We sat down and Benson and Barba asked me to tell them everything I remembered. So I told them all I could recall. After half an hour the talk was over and I could leave the office. Mr. Barba would call me and tell me if and when I needed to testify on the day of the trial.

When I left the office I saw that Amanda was still sitting at her desk, so I decided to go talk to her.

“Hi Amanda.”

“Hey, how are you doing?”, she asked standing up and pulling me in for a hug.

“I’m okay. Can I ask you something? How is Sonny?”

She gave me a strange look.

“Didn’t he talk to you already?”, she asked.

I shook my head. “I haven’t heard from him in two days, since he left the hospital.”

“Okay. I’m gonna tell him that he should speak with you,” suggested Amanda, “He’s feeling awful for what happened to you. He blames himself, so maybe it takes a little more time for him to get back to you. But you know Carisi, he’ll come to you.”

I nodded and felt tears building in my eyes, when suddenly I felt a hand touching my shoulder.

“Hey,” a familiar voice said softly, “What are you doing here?”

I turned around to find Sonny standing in front of me in his navy blue coat. His hair wet from the rain outside. I must have looked baffled, because he shot me an irritated glance.

“I, um, I had to testify,” I stuttered still staring at him.

“Okay.” He crossed his arms in front of chest, looking at me with furrowed brow.

I tried to read his facial expression, but I couldn’t. Usually I could read him like an open book, but now I just couldn’t tell what he was thinking or feeling.

“Sonny,” I said and paused.

“You should go home now,” he told me, then he turned around and went to Benson’s office.

“That wasn’t weird at all,” muttered Amanda.

“I… I should leave,” I stated and turned around, heading out of the precinct.

On my way out I felt tears streaming down my face already. I felt so lost, the only person I wanted to talk to, needed to talk to, wouldn’t speak with me. I felt like screaming.

I went to the park though it was raining. While taking a stroll through the park, I couldn’t stop thinking about how messed up everything was now. Three days ago I didn’t even know that I was in love him. Now the thought of it made me feel so confused. Was this how people in love were supposed to feel? Confused, lost, sad, just dumb? I felt so stupid for not knowing I had these feelings for him sooner, but at least Sonny didn’t know either. Being in love didn’t feel like the movies at all. It actually sucked.

It must’ve been hours spent at the park. I lost track of time and it was already in the afternoon when I went home.

Strolling trough the busy streets, out of a sudden I felt uncomfortable. Turning around, I realized that someone was following me. I decided I must be hallucinating, that I was just a little paranoid after what happened two days ago. So I kept walking home. I was already in the hallway and right as I was searching my handbag for my buzzing mobile, somebody grabbed my neck and pushed me up against the wall.

“You thought you could set me up, huh?”, he spoke angrily.

I recognized the voice. It was the rapist that I had decoyed a few days ago.

“Let go of me!”, I yelled, but he just tightened his grip on my neck. I tried to fight back, but he was too strong.

“Let’s go to your place now,” he told me.

“No,” I said with clear voice.

“Oh yeah, we are. We are going to your place right now.”

He pulled a knife out of nowhere and held it to my neck.

“Let’s go or you’re dead.”

I thought about running, I thought about fighting, but I knew there was no use. So I led him upstairs. I felt so powerless, like there was nothing I could do. Like I had to let this happen.

I didn’t want all of this. I even wished he would’ve just slit my throat in the first place. I felt tears coming, but I suppressed them. I didn’t want him to think I was weak. When we were at my apartment door, I tried to grab my keys, but my hands were so shaky that I didn’t get them right away. I was too slow for him so he smashed my head against the wall.

“Open the fucking door now,” growled the man, pulling at my hair. It hurt so badly.

From the corner of my eye I saw Sonny coming down the hall. “Help me,” I mouthed. Sonny took a step back, behind the corner and pulled out his cellphone.

I tried to take my time opening the door, but I wasn’t fast enough for the assailant, so he ripped the keys out of my hand, unlocked the door and pushed me in. All I could think of in that moment was my little black cat. I hoped he wouldn’t get hurt. When we were standing in my living room, I turned around, so I could face him and get a look of the door, which Sonny managed to hold, before it closed entirely. He entred my apartment slowly, he made signs that I should be quiet and step away. I did as he told me then Sonny pulled his gun and yelled.

“NYPD!”

The assailant turned around, taking a step towards Sonny, pulling his knife and stabbing Sonny in the abdomen. Sonny broke down on the floor, bleeding.

“Sonny!”, I screamed.

The man ran out of the apartment. I knelt down next to Sonny. I was starting to panic.

“Sonny,” I cried, not knowing what to do. “Everything will be okay. You’ll be okay.”

I tried to convince myself that these words coming out of my mouth were true. Then I realized, I should call an ambulance. I took my phone and called 911.

“An ambulance will be here in 5 minutes. You’ll be okay then,” I told him, stroking his head. His blue eyes looked into mine and I could see the fear in his eyes. He had to be afraid of dying right here in my living room and I was afraid, too. I was so afraid the man I love would die, so I gripped his hand, hoping he would hold on to life just like I held on to his hand.

“Doll,” sighed Sonny, breathing heavily, “you alright?”

I laughed through the tears that were streaming down my face. “You just got stabbed and ask me if I’m alright?”

“He… he didn’t… hurt you, did he?”

I shook my head.

“No, you saved me,” I told him.

He smiled and his beautiful dimples appeared. I carressed his cheek with my thumb. How I loved those dimples. I decided it was time to tell him how I felt about him. This might be the last chance to tell him.

“Sonny, I-”

“Oh my god, Carisi, are you hurt?”

Lieutenant Benson came into my living room, looking terrified.

“He got stabbed trying to protect me,” I sobbed, keeping my eyes on Sonny, “The ambulance is on its way.”

I whispered to Sonny. “You’ll be okay. Everything will be okay.”

Then the paramedics came and took Sonny.

It happened oh so fast and I found myself at the hospital, waiting for Sonny to get out of surgery. I sat in a waiting room filled with tense looking people waiting for the doctors, for their loved ones.

“Y/N, what happened? How is Sonny?”, asked Sonny’s sister Bella out of breath, running towords me.

I stood up, hugging her.

“Bella, Sonny was stabbed. He’s in surgery,” I sobbed.

“What? How did that happen?”

“He was protecting me. I’m so sorry. It’s all my fault.” I broke down crying in her arms.

She held me close.

“I’m sure, it’s not your fault. That’s just Sonny, always wanting to protect people.”

She stroked my head, we comforted each other. We sat down and waited and waited and waited.

Then a doctor entered the room. “I’m looking for the family of Dominick Carisi.”

Bella jumped out of her chair.

“Yes, I’m his sister. How is he?”

The doctor stepped closer to us.

“He was hurt very badly, but we did our best. He’s still in a critical condition and we had to get him to intensive care.”

“Can we see him?”, asked Bella nervously.

“He isn’t awake yet. You can come back in the morning. He should be awake and stable by then.”

“Okay, thank you,” she said to the doctor, who nodded and left, then she turned to me. “I think, I’m heading home to Tommy and the kids. You should go home, too, honey. You look tired. At least I am tired.”

She looked at me and really did look tired.

“I, um, I’d rather stay here.” I told her.

I felt exhausted and guilty and anxious. I couldn’t just leave and go home where I was attacked, where Sonny nearly died.

Bella said goodbye, hugged me and whispered: “He’s lucky to have you.” Then she left.

I sank down onto the chair. The night lasted forever. I tried to stay awake, but I must have fallen asleep. When I woke up, it was already 10am and Amanda was sitting next to me.

“Hey Y/N. How are you?,” she smiled.

I streched out on the chair, yawned. I felt awful as ever. My back hurt, but my heart hurt even more.

“I’m afraid.” I felt tears pricking in my eyes. “Amanda, I am so afraid. I thought he’s gonna die.”

She put her arm around me, stroking my shoulder.

“Y/N, it’s gonna be okay. He’s gonna be okay. You did nothing wrong. You called an ambulance. You saved his life.”

I started crying, sobbing, again. I had never felt this way before. I was so afraid. The fear of losing Sonny was too much. I just couldn’t cope.

“What if he dies? What if he dies because of me? I would have killed him,” I whispered. I would have killed the love of my life. I would have killed Sonny.

“Hi. You’re Dominick Carisi’s family, aren’t you?”, a nurse asked pulling me out of my thoughts.

“I am his partner,” said Amanda.

“Can I see him?”, I sobbed.

[stinkylittleboiii]

Furby at the bus stop

He drank me conk

[cosmiclovestyle]

Benson & Hedges by cute-e featuring rebecca minkoff handbags