#beyoncé voice sometimes you lose

[scionshtola]

sometimes i really, really have to resist the urge to tell someone their opinion is bad before i block them

[aphrodeiities]

ɴᴏʀᴛʜ ɴᴏᴅᴇ ᴛʜʀᴏᴜɢʜ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱɪɢɴꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴏᴜꜱᴇꜱ

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and this was a prize post for surpassing a following milestone? im not sure but either way thank you for everyone who has helped me gain this much supporters <3

north node is now cheaper when trying to buy asteroids/others through my paid readings :)

i did my research by talking to close friends and researching celebrities! take the degrees with a grain of salt.

♇ the north node is about your individual path your life takes and inevitably becomes. can mean where you are exposed, what you could fear and even obsess over.

♇ north node in aries/1h [1°/13°/25°] ⟶ becoming a leader, being the face of something, a company, a show etc. being the first to do something, specifically within your family. anger issues, passion for sports or being a champion. excellent at theatre/acting, people might want to expose your life, your goals so they can steal. if not careful can become filled with rage, could have accidents with the head. could have a fear of being pushed aside, not recognised.

celebrities with this north node placement ⟶ mariah carey, emilia clarke and martin luther king.

♇ north node in taurus/2h [2°/14°/26°] ⟶ excellent cooks. to become rich, and obsession with feeling beautiful, could be obsessed with money. very possessive over other people or their own possessions. very vocal people. could get sore throats a lot, can have their privacy exposed/boundaries crossed. great singers, distinct voices, a need to be heard. and could have a lot of people wanting to be them, could have a fear of losing their value, or losing their possessions. classis beauty.

celebrities with this north node placement ⟶ lana del rey, sharon tate and bella hadid.

♇ north node in gemini/3h [3°/15°/27°] ⟶ spokespeople, known to say silly things. like to win arguments, very direct people. other people might ridicule or nitpick everything they say. insecure of not being taken seriously, be careful of car accidents or just bad drivers, being associated with cars. amazing at marketing, people could parade the person a lot.

celebrities with this north node placement ⟶ khloe kardashian, jfk kennedy and billie eilish.

♇ north node in cancer/4h [4°/16°/28°] ⟶ to make a family, a foundation or a legacy and leaving a will. to have a tribe, obsession with sense of belonging. conflict with family. disconnection with family, can also be a try-hard. can com from a popular family.

celebs with this north node placement ⟶ britney spears, prince harry and michelle obama.

♇ north node in leo/5h [5°/17°/29°] ⟶ charismatic, can be obsessed with achievements and goals. famous children. are very goal-oriented, can have a fear of failure, which sometimes causes them to be strict. protective over children, having children with popular/wealthy people and they can be easily admired and glorified. succeed in their talents and hobbies.

celebs with this north node placement ⟶ beyoncé, angelina jolie and kim kardashian.

♇ north node in virgo/6h [6°/18°] ⟶ could have a problem with health, obsession with being perfecting. servicing others, a worker, deep insecurities. copying others. could have a fear of not being perfect, anxious, can be harsh with your words. very erratic as well.

celebs with this north node placement ⟶ kylie jenner, jennifer lopez and kourtney kardashian.

♇ north node in libra/7h [7°/19°] ⟶ could be obsessed with getting into relationships. could have a fear of being disliked. beware of too much cosmetic surgery. inevitable marriage, soul-mate finding. marrying someone famous/wealthy. can be very flaky, needs to find balance. sometimes could find themselves with troubling marriages. fear of ending up alone.

celebs with this north node placement ⟶ madonna, michael jackson and ashanti.

♇ north node in scorpio/8h [8°/20°] ⟶ be careful with cosmetic surgery. obsessive spending, money obsession and sex. fear of losing everything, possessions, money and power along with liberty. destined to be or become rich or leave a legacy. obsessive, easily addicted to drugs and can be vengeful. could be stalkers or are the ones stalked and scrutinised by others.

celebs with this north node placement ⟶ megan thee stallion, paris hilon and jungkook.

♇ north node in sagittarius/9h [9°/21°] ⟶ teachers, students of life and researches. fear of feeling stupid or stuck in life. not believing yourself. can be very conceited, others might like to steal from others. feeling like a God, superiority complex; obsessed with learning. burn-outs or spoiled. can be too lustful; becoming publishers, directors and screen-writers. even Gurus, people looking up to them. trading illegal stuff, talent with bitcon.

celebs with this north node placement ⟶ ariana grande, cardi b and demi lovato.

♇ north node in capricorn/10h [10°/22°] ⟶ unbalance with power, authority issues. public clashes, fear of being forgotten or overlooked. seen as attractive, some can be crazy or pushed to be crazy. ambitious, rich and bold. can mean accidents, fear of being watched, fear of failing. obsessive with reputation and legacy, destined to be known for something, becoming a boss, or another high position.

celebs with this north node placement ⟶ adele, selena gomez and gwyneth paltrow.

♇ north node in aquarius/11h [11°/23°] ⟶ fear of loneliness and losing friends. could be a controlling friend or have friends who are controlling/manipulative. random fame, random wealth. fame from the internet, getting money from the internet. inventing something, creating trends and being a humanitarian. ego-death. accidents. deceptive friends or is the deceptive friends, angry conflicts on the internet, with friends or with people in the same community as them.

celebs with this north node placement ⟶ lady gaga, miranda kerr and the weeknd.

♇ north node in pisces/12h [12°/24°] ⟶ falling into delusions. obsessive and intrusive thoughts, can become famous, but fame will be very damaging fo the mental health. addictions, specifically with alcohol. nightmares. making sacrifices, people having ill-intent, doing witch-craft on you or you could be someone who practices it. can mean moving far from home place, nasty hidden enemies, having your dreams come true.

celebs with this north node placement ⟶ rihanna, justin bieber and marilyn monroe.

masterlist

paid chart readings

♇

[phenomenologically]

As "Ameriican Requiem" opens with gospel-inspired elegance, the melody will quickly switch into -- what will become -- Cowboy Carter's signature acoustic twang. As the melody turns with synth sparkle, you realize Beyoncé has provided us her new 'pledge of allegiance': "For things to stay the same, they need to change again." Amen!

The gospel -- in terms of scripture, rather than musicality -- captures my attention here. Perhaps I've been listening to too much old-school blues, but Cowboy Carter's biblical references provide through-lines to the heart of Southern Black country and blues music. This isn't to say that this is Beyoncé's first time bringing God into her lyrics; but rather, the spiritual exclamations and jubilations of Cowboy Carter seem more fully realized when married with the sounds of blues' forebearers like Blind Joe Taggart ("God's Gonna Separate the Wheat from the Tares); Sister Rosetta Tharpe ("Precious Lord, Take My Hand"); and Arizona Dranes ("My Soul is a Witness"). These parallels can be drawn through acoustics, through the embellished runs Beyoncé uses to emphasize milestones within her songs' narratives (think of the octave change on "early age" in verse one and the bridge of "16 Carriages").

The prose-like approach to personal narrative throughout the album also serves the connection to late-1800s/early-1900s emerging blues, "negro spirituals," and country songs from Black artists of the era. While Beyoncé has drawn her life experiences plainly into her discography prior to Cowboy Carter, the styling of the album feels particularly attuned to imparting heartfelt, genuine lived experience.

In "Protector," Beyoncé soothes her children (in the song, Rumi's voice is sampled) with promises of protection, projection, and "Liftin' you up, so you will be raised." The content here reminded me, by contrast, of the well-loved blues anthem "(Sometimes I Feel Like A) Motherless Child" covered by icons like Sister Rosetta Tharpe, multi-hyphenate Paul Robeson, and folk-revivalist Odetta. While the singer of "Motherless Child" laments their lonesomeness, their isolation "a long ways from home," Cowboy Carter subverts this relationship and ensures that she will "lead you down that road if you lose your way." This points to another relationship between the album and its possible early blues-inspirations: "For things to stay the same, they need to change again."

Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter seeks to establish a new dialogue between Southern Black parent and child; husband and wife; community and individual. "Texas Hold 'Em" clarifies my point. Here, Beyoncé invites her muse to "lay your cards down," a phrase relevant to cardgames, yes, but one that's also used figuratively to indicate succumbing to vulnerability. In the pre-chorus after verse one she says, "I can't read your mind," indicating that while her partner may be connecting with her physically (on "the floor"), he still needs to "lay [his] cards down" so they can "work [their problems] in the middle," rather than side-stepping and dancing around them.

Her continual request to "pour some sugar on me," while immediately recognizable as a possible allegory of Def Leppard's "Pour Some Sugar On Me," the line reminds me more of "the Empress of Blues" Bessie Smith's "Need a Little Sugar in My Bowl." In the song, Bessie pleads for "some good man to tell my troubles to," -- laying her cards on the table. Interestingly, both Bessie Smith's "Need a Little Sugar," and Def Leppard's "Pour Some Sugar," carry a... frisky, let's say, subtext. I would be remiss to say that "Texas Hold 'Em," is entirely about breaking down emotional barriers between partners, without recognizing there's a lot of physical barriers Beyoncé tangles with as well. However, ultimately "Texas Hold 'Em" helps to elucidate that larger theme of the album: starting hard conversations among partners and families, and reasserting love and forgiveness above all.

The empassioned declarations of love and support -- to daughters, to husbands, to mothers and fathers -- are peppered throughout the album. "Bodyguard," "My Rose," "Alligator Tears," and "II Hands II Heaven," provide Beyoncé the platform to express these wishes singularly; while duets like "II Most Wanted" with Miley Cyrus more explicitly illustrate how important unhindered commitment in partnership is to Beyoncé. And, once again, these themes between romantic/sexual/lifelong partners mirrors much of the content of early blues, particularly (to me) the work of Sippie Wallace: the inspiration of blues/rock artist Bonnie Rait.

For instance, Sippie's biggest hit, "I'm a Mighty Tight Woman," recounts her wishes for a good man who will make her happy, "and I will make him happy too." She describes herself as a "jack of all trades," able to support her "pretty papa" in any wish or struggle -- mirroring some of the promises Beyoncé extends in "Bodyguard," for example. Much of Sippie's discography presents cynical (but wise, perhaps) views on marriage. Her song "Women Be Wise" advises married women, "don't advertise your man," as desperate women will come looking for him: a similar case as Cowboy Carter's "Jolene." Yet, once again, Beyoncé reaffirms her pledge of change by telling Jolene, "I'ma stand by him, he gon' stand by me." She doesn't relent to the "inevitability" of female competition, of unfaithfulness. She reaffirms wholeheartedly the trust in her partnership, and the value they add to one another. This is an evolution on Sippie's narrative, in which "Women Be Wise," ends with her own admission of guilt: "Lord honey, I just might sneek up and try to make him mine." Rather than committing to a partnership, she too moves on to the next.

I would be remiss to publish this review without addressing "Ya Ya." Here, Beyoncé partners with a soulful chorus to opine on American realities: sex, God, and shady insurance companies. The narrative retelling of these moments intercut with a toe-tapping "ya ya ya" chorus brought to mind lawyer, professional football player, activist, singer and actor (that's what I meant by multi-hyphenate) Paul Robeson. His famous rendition of "Joe Hill," details the 1914 murder of union organizer and communist Joe Hill. Parallel to the repetition of "ya-ya" and "la-la" through Cowboy Carter, Robeson returns again and again to Joe Hill's empowering response to questions of his death: "'I never died,' says he." And similar to Beyoncé's questioning of "workin' time and a half for half the pay," so too is "Joe Hill" questioning the working class: if your leader dies, does your cause die? Does your need for change die? No, "they organized." For this, Beyoncé prays "that he don't crash," but similarly, that her hardworking man "gotta keep the faith." Now -- "Ya Ya" is not a call to union organization and worker's empowerment as "Joe Hill," was. But, it's an important touchstone onto my earlier point: that Cowboy Carter is calling not only for changes within partnership and family, but larger communities and perhaps, American society at-large. To recognize the shared struggle, faith, and love of delicious cheesy grits that has always connected working-class Americans -- rather than superficial categories pre-determined by melanation -- despite a bloody "History that can't be erased."

I could unpack many, many more connections between Cowboy Carter and the blues genre, but I'll end on the poignant necessity of "Amen." Here, Beyoncé returns to the hook of "Ameriican Requiem,": Can you see her point? Can you hear her history? "Looker-there, looker there now," she croons in the opening track. "Have mercy on me," she belts at the close. "Amen," brings us visions of the present South; meticulously upkept plantation homes "built with blood and bone," though the homes of the enslaved Americans who built them have "crumbled." Civil War and Colonial-era monuments standing above struggling neighborhoods, beautifying the "lies of stone."

"For things to stay the same, they need to change again." For freedom to remain intact, to remain the foundation of "country," it must evolve to new heights, new communities, new dialogues. To "purify our Father's sins," requires not only a reckoning with the self, but a reckoning with the greater culture. It means not only shamelessly extending love and support to those closest to you, but recognizing the opportunities to spark love with those farthest from -- or most dissimilar to -- you.

Favorite Tracks:

"16 Carriages"

"Alligator Tears"

"Ya Ya"

[anotherblogaboutguys]

I want to do something that I did for the first time on my other blog around this time last year. These are some of my favorite songs from 2023. They're not necessarily at the very top of my list of favorite songs of the year. But they're a sampling of songs that put a smile on my face during the year. Enjoy!

Kylie Minogue - Padam Padam

One of THE songs of Summer 2023. Although I like a handful of her songs, I've never been the biggest Kylie Minogue fan (Sorry!). This ditty about the electricity of a first meeting (or is it about a certain throb during oral sex? - maybe that's just my dirty mind at work) was too catchy to deny, though.

Luke Combs - Fast Car

This Country remake of Tracy Chapman's flawless 1988 tale of love and the harsh realities that sometimes come later had a lot of fans, but is also a song that some found problematic. Regardless of everything else, I appreciated how faithful Combs stayed to the original...right down to leaving the original pronouns intact, which some often DON'T do when remaking a song originally recorded by someone of the opposite gender

Metro Boomin' featuring The Weeknd & 21 Savage - Creepin'

This one is a quasi-remake of a song about cheating and betrayal named I Don't Wanna Know that was originally released in 2004 by Mario Winans. Even though some aspects of the new version are different from the original, I liked the new feel that noted producer Metro Boomin' put on it.

Pink - Never Gonna Not Dance Again

Never Gonna Dance Again was a pure fun way to bring 2022 to a close and kept me dancing well into 2023. Things can sometimes get so heavy that we forget to stop and enjoy life. This was a perfect reminder to not get so bogged down in your own bullshit or anyone else's that you lose your happy. Advice we could all stand to keep in mind.

Sza - Nobody Gets Me / Kill Bill / Snooze

R&B singer/songwriter, Sza, probably had the biggest 2023 of any artist NOT named Beyoncé or *shudder* Taylor Swift. She's been a rising star in the genre since 2017 and had a breakout 2023. I enjoyed all three of the songs listed above and didn't want to leave any of them out of this spotlight. While Snooze is a song about passion for a relationship, Nobody Gets Me and Kill Bill are essentially breakup songs on opposite sides of a coin. One is soft and the other - inspired by the Quentin Tarantino movie of the same name - uh...isn't.

The Weeknd featuring Playboi Carti & Madonna - Popular

Popular was associated with the short-lived show, The Idol, which The Weeknd co-created and co-starred in with Lily-Rose Depp. I liked this tale about a celebrity who enjoys the limelight. Plus, as someone who knows a lot about the limelight herself, it was cool to hear Madonna's voice on this one.

[danielsiegelalonso]

A Crucial Collaboration: Importance of Working with Writers and Producers for Music Artists | Daniel Siegel Alonso

Many times, musicians are seen as solitary geniuses, hunched over instruments or microphones like a mad scientist, conjuring up songs from thin air. But the reality is that behind every great musician is often a team of talented producers and writers helping shape the magic. Sure, the artist is the face and voice, but many of the world’s most iconic songs would never have reached their full potential without the right collaborators. Daniel Siegel Alonso dives into why working with producers and writers is essential.

The Architect of Sound

1. Shaping the Vision

Siegel Alonso draws parallels between a good record producer and a film director — they can see the bigger picture and help guide the artist toward their best work. Take George Martin, often referred to as the “Fifth Beatle.” While John, Paul, George, and Ringo were no slouches, Martin helped the Fab Four push boundaries and realize their wildest musical ideas. From the lush orchestration on “A Day in the Life” to the innovative use of studio trickery on later albums, Martin expanded The Beatles’ sound. His technical expertise and musical intuitions helped their songs transcend into timeless masterworks.

2. Bringing Technical Expertise

Producers understand the nuts and bolts of music in ways many artists don’t. Their technical prowess in the studio is invaluable. While an artist may know what they want, a producer knows *how* to get it. Madonna, for example, has always been a shrewd collaborator. In the 1980s, she teamed up with producer Nile Rodgers for her Like a Virgin album, creating a sound that defined pop music for years. Later, she worked with William Orbit on Ray of Light, a transformative record that brought electronica, Eastern sounds, and trip-hop to mainstream pop. Producers brought cutting-edge technology and new sounds that kept The Material Girl relevant and ahead of the curve for decades.

3. Serving as a Creative Mirror

One of the producer’s most noteworthy roles is acting as a mirror to the artist’s creativity. They’re not there to take over but to reflect the artist’s ideas back at them — sometimes adding a new viewpoint that unlocks a song’s potential. It’s a fine balance of supporting and challenging. The best producers know when to let the artist shine and when to step in to suggest that extra flourish that makes a good track great.

The Master of Words and Melodies

1. Elevating Songwriting

Some artists excel at melodies but need help with lyrics, or vice versa. That’s where songwriters come in, Siegel Alonso says. A strong writer can elevate raw ideas into something versatile. Carole King, for example, started her career writing for others before stepping into the spotlight herself. King penned iconic tracks like “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” alongside her then-husband Gerry Goffin for Aretha Franklin. King’s ability to tap into the human experience with simple yet deep lyrics transformed these songs into timeless anthems.

2. Unlocking New Perspectives

Teaming up with different writers can also help artists explore new perspectives. When an artist is stuck in their creative headspace, a fresh voice can bring new themes, structures, or emotions to the table. Even artists like Beyoncé, who have strong personal voices, often work with a host of top-tier writers to hone and perfect their tracks. Collaboration shouldn’t dilute an artist’s vision — it sharpens it.

3. Expanding Musical Styles

A great writer can help artists extend their style in unexpected ways. Think of Michael Jackson’s working with songwriter Rod Temperton on Thriller. Temperton’s knack for hooks and rhythms took Jackson’s pop sound to new heights, creating one of the best-selling albums. Their collaboration fused pop, funk, and soul in an innovative and irresistible way, showing how a great writer can help an artist evolve without losing their essence.

The Power of Collaboration

Daniel Siegel Alonso notes that what ties all these examples together is the transformative power of collaboration. Whether it’s a producer like George Martin pushing The Beatles to explore uncharted sonic territory or a songwriter like Carole King crafting timeless lyrics for other singers, the right partnership can boost music in exceptional ways.

In the end, music isn’t a solo sport. The best songs, LPs, and careers are often the result of a partnership — a delicate dance between the artist’s raw talent and the expertise of those who help refine it. Remember: the face you see on the album cover isn’t the only genius at work.

[jaypturnerbhm]

Gay Dads of Birmingham 2.7.2024

Last night at Gay Dads of Birmingham I tried a new format for our conversation. I usually have an outline drafted with some commentary, quotes, research, and discussion questions. It's a great way to guide our conversation but can sometimes restrict our conversation.

In honor of Valentine's Day, I pulled together a bunch of quotes on singleness and relationships, put them in an envelope that we passed around the table, and every guy pulled out a quote, read it, and then we discussed it around the table.

The format and material made for a REALLY great conversation! Every person had a voice and everyone was so engaged. I will definitely use this format again! Here are the quotes that were in the envelope:

I’m not alone. I’m with myself.  And I’m fabulous. – Eva Longoria

I think it’s very healthy to spend time alone. You need to know how to be alone and not defined by another person. – Oscar Wilde

To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance. – Oscar Wilde

Being single used to mean that nobody wanted you. Now it means you’re pretty sexy and you’re taking your time deciding how you want your life to be and who you want to spend it with. – Carrie Bradshaw

I never found a companion that was so companionable as solitude. – Henry David Thoreau

Love yourself first. Because that’s who you’ll spend the rest of your life with.

Don’t be scared to walk alone. Don’t be scared to like it. – John Mayer

If you aren't good at loving yourself, you will have a difficult time loving anyone, since you'll resent the time and energy you give another person that you aren't even giving to yourself. – Barbara De Angelis

You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody. – Maya Angelou

I don’t need Prince Charming to have my own happy ending. – Katy Perry

Love that stammers, that stutters, is apt to be the love that loves best. — Gabriela Mistral

We cannot really love anyone with whom we never laugh. — Agnes Repplier

“It is not our purpose to become each other; it is to recognize each other, to learn to see the other and honor him for what he is.” — Hermann Hesse

“Be honest, brutally honest. That is what's going to maintain relationships.” — Lauryn Hill

"Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage." — Lao Tzu

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

“The most painful thing is losing yourself in the process of loving someone too much, and forgetting that you are special too.” — Ernest Hemingway

“To be fully seen by somebody, then, and be loved anyhow — this is a human offering that can border on miraculous.” — Elizabeth Gilbert

“To say that one waits a lifetime for his soulmate to come around is a paradox. People eventually get sick of waiting, take a chance on someone, and by the art of commitment become soulmates, which takes a lifetime to perfect.” — Criss Jami

“You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you.” — Bob Marley

“Truth is everybody is going to hurt you: you just gotta find the ones worth suffering for.” — Bob Marley

“Love is an endless act of forgiveness. Forgiveness is me giving up the right to hurt you for hurting me.“ — Beyoncé

“When you take care of yourself, you’re a better person for others. When you feel good about yourself, you treat others better.” — Solange

"People should fall in love with their eyes closed." — Andy Warhol

"I'm selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best." — Marilyn Monroe

"Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same." — Emily Brontë

"I'm much more me when I'm with you." — Unknown

[jkbabiey]

Rising Signs Observations 🌜

ATTENTION: pls don't throw hate if you don't agree - these are based on my experiences, therefore are subjective.

🌜scorpio risings always have really defined features - like a defined jawline or an incredible bone structure; their faces seem to have been sculpted fr. Every time I look at my scorpio rising friends I just get the idea that everything has a very harmonized specific place in their face if that makes sense??? they’re like REALLY hot, one of the prettiest mfs out there

🌜also, scorpio risings tend to keep themselves a secret from everyone. they may be the friendliest people you meet, but while they make you think you are getting to know each other, you don't really know anything about them.

🌜 I’ve said it once, and I’ll repeat it - libra rising is one of my least favorite placements ever, it’s very common to see libra rising changing themselves just to be liked by others, they lose their own personality just to fit into the crowd (at least, in my experience)

🌜taurus risings have fantastic bodies, these mfs are so freaking hot and sensual - these are the type to make you fantasize about them in a sexual manner without even knowing them. They tend to pass out that femme fatale vibe, but once you get to know them you see that they have a really soft and kind nature to them.

🌜also, most taurus risings have really sexy and sultry voices (either the singing voice or the talking voice - sometimes, even both)

🌜and if they want to seduce you, believe me, they will because they know exactly the effect they have on people (they know what they’re doing). While they can be the most nurturing person on earth, they can also be so sexy and seductive. (Example: Gigi Hadid, Lana Del Rey, Camilla Cabello, Mariah Carey)

🌜pisces risings always look sleepy to me, they’re eyes just tend to look kinda sleepy and tired lol ( Example: Billie Eilish, Ryan Gosling or Clara Bow)

🌜also they give me a really dreamy vibe

🌜libra risings have really symmetrical and delicate faces. Seems like their face is really close to perfection in terms of symmetry. (Example: Doja Cat, Beyoncé). they’re are so pretty - these are the kind of people you can't point out one physical feature you don't like about - these people are ruled by venus so it explains a lot

🌜aries risings have a really extraverted vibe to them. you just know that if you come up to them and say "hey let's do bungee jumping tomorrow" they'll agree.

🌜also their heads or foreheads tend to be on the bigger side

🌜cancer risings have this really comforting vibe to them. they give me momma bear vibes. you definitely know they won't judge you in a bikini. also, really pretty lips?? a lot of cancer risings i know have doll lips, and it's the prettiest thing ever.

🌜male sag risings look really sexy and attractive when they're in that manspreading position. really makes you want to sit on the lap.

🌜sag risings and their eyes!!!!!! really pretty and big eyes - most of the sag risings I know have either really pretty and big eyes or really different colored- eyes (either way, their eyes are by far what catches your attention at first sight). their noses also tend to be on the bigger side.

🌜gemini risings always have something out of the ordinary in their appearance. They just look different from that beauty stereotype without even trying, and people still find them pretty, because that lack of worry about others' opinions is just so freaking attractive. If they think they look pretty, then they look pretty. Periodt. (Take Lady Gaga or Amy Winehouse as an example)

🌜Same with aqua risings. The only difference is that Gemini risings don't really try to go against society's stereotypes, while Aquas really do it on purpose. they want to differ from what other people think is pretty. They just don't care about your opinion and they'll want to go against it. They are the baddest bitches around fr. (Example: SZA or Nicki Minaj)

🌜Virgo rising look like business people. They just look so put together all the freaking time. Their face is nearly perfect and everything about them looks just so tidy and organized I can't- (Example: Bella Hadid - this woman could do ANYTHING to me)

🌜Also, they tend to have really low contrast in their appearance (like, their eye tone is really similar to their hair tone and it all mashes really well with their skin tone - there isn't anything in particular that stands out).

🌜Capricorn risings look like they age backward fr. Like they look younger in their old twenties than when they were like 18. I don't even know, they look so young and jovial and like they just don't age. (Example: Ariana Grande, Kylie Jenner, or Megan Fox as an example)

🌜Also, they always sound like they're being sarcastic when they talk, even when they're not.

🌜Leo risings are the fuckboys/it girls of the zodiac. They are smooth talkers. They demand all the attention, and, honestly, we don't mind giving it to them, because they do it so well. Fr these mfs can get you to do anything they want you to. They're just so smooth all the time.

🌜Something else about sag risings - the tone they use when they talk. It's not their voice. It's the way they talk, the tone they use when they talk. Fr, like, they use this tone where it seems like they're tired, and it's so fucking sexy, for god's sake. It's like they're constantly talking in their morning voice.

[ascenderehq]

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈 𝐓𝐀𝐒𝐊 𝟎𝟎𝟏: 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐂 𝐌𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐒 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐖𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐀 𝐃𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄!

Do you know which Muggle artists released amazing, fire music in 2006? Beyoncé, Arctic Monkeys, Carrie Underwood, and Pink. Who Knew, Before He Cheats, Irreplaceable, and I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor are pretty great songs. Their lyrics can probably make for good first sentences for a starter, right? Right.

Welcome to the first mini task of Ascendere HQ! Under the cut, you’ll find prompts taken from the Muggle artists mentioned’s 2006 albums and instructions on what to do with them.

INSTRUCTIONS:

- Select the character(s) of yours you want to steamroll into this mini task. Drop their name in the #technical channel on Discord.

- A random generator will put the characters into groups of two.

- Pair up with the mun of the character your character is paired with. Pick a first sentence you both like from the list below. You can modify the first sentence a bit if you want to!

- One of you write a starter with the prompt as the first sentence! Have fun. And don’t forget to tag the starter with ascendere.mini001.

FIRST SENTENCE PROMPTS:

Right now, he's probably buying her some fruity little drink cause she can't shoot whiskey. (Before He Cheats, Carrie Underwood)

She saw both their lives flash before her eyes. (Jesus, Take The Wheel, Carrie Underwood)

She said, “Sometimes love slips away and you just can't get it back. Let's face it.” (Wasted, Carrie Underwood)

He's got a Friday paycheck lined up, down the block at daddy's shop. (The Night Before (Life Goes On), Carrie Underwood)

“My hotel in Manhattan holds more people than our town. And what I just paid for dinner would be a down payment on a house.” (I Ain't In Checotah Anymore, Carrie Underwood)

They knew better. (Who Knew, Pink)

Nobody likes to lose that inner voice. (Nobody Knows, Pink)

“The pissed off complicated thirteen year old me.” (Conversations With My 13 Year Old Self, Pink)

There is no heartache if you can afford everything delivered right to your door. (I Got Money Now, Pink)

No more waking up to innocence. Say hello to hesitance. (Long Way To Happy, Pink)

Is he the best ever? That's the argument. (Deja vu, Beyonce)

It's very seldom that you're blessed to find your equal. (Upgrade U, Beyonce)

“But now my suspicions of you have multiplied.” (Resentment, Beyonce)

“I can have another you in a minute.” (Irreplaceable, Beyonce)

This is taking a toll, the way the story unfolds. Not the picture-perfect movie everyone would have saw. (Ring The Alarm, Beyonce)

The lairy girls hung out the window of the limousine. (The View From The Afternoon, Arctic Monkeys)

“Oh, you've saved me,” she screams down the line. “The band were fucking wank and I'm not having a nice time.” (Fake Tales of San Francisco, Arctic Monkeys)

They get their address and their names took but they couldn't care less. (Riot Van, Arctic Monkeys)

What is he doing? What on earth's the plan? Has he got one? (Perhaps Vampires Is A Bit Strong But..., Arctic Monkeys)

And they said it changes when the sun goes down around here. (When The Sun Goes Down, Arctic Monkeys)

“Well, over there, there's friends of mine. What can I say? I've known 'em for a long long time.” (A Certain Romance, Arctic Monkeys)

[ts1989fanatic]

Taylor Swift, Britney Spears and the media cycle that demands pain from our pop stars

Emma Clifton 08:30, Feb 16 2021

Britney Spears was robbed of her public image during the height of her fame. Taylor Swift was robbed of her music during the height of hers.

Why does our pop culture system seem so intent on punishing the very women who keep it afloat. Emma Clifton looks at a decade in young singers – and the variously terrible ways they get treated while in the public eye.

There was a theory floated on the podcast You’re Wrong About that ‘fame is abuse’ and you’d be hard pressed not to agree if you were one of the many people who saw the recent New York Times documentary Framing Britney Spears, and realised just how badly we as a society treated Britney Spears before, during, and after her rise to fame.

The paparazzi, the media, the comedians – and then the fans and look-i-loos who continued to buy all the magazines that ran headlines about what a train-wreck she was, when really she was just someone in her early twenties, trying to raise two children while being one of the most famous – and hounded – people on the planet.

The documentary discussed at length how we as a pop-culture obsessed society love to build up a talented, attractive young woman and then buy popcorn in preparation of when we can gleefully watch them tumble from grace.

(And it’s not just pop stars, of course; the resplendent rise and then the racist fall of Meghan Markle’s position in public opinion is one of the most recent examples we have of when good headlines go bad.)

When I was working at Creme magazine, between 2009 and 2012, our pages were over-flowing with talented young pop singers: Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, The Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Rihanna, One Direction, Justin Bieber.

When you look back on the decade that has passed by since, time has not been kind to any of these people.

Either the showbiz demon took something from each of them – or they had to completely disappear from sight for years at a time in order to survive. Sometimes both.

There have been eating disorders, drug overdoses, rehab stints, broken marriages, abusive relationships, chronic illnesses. These kids – and they were kids – were so young when they started, they’re already on their fourth or fifth reinventions.

Most of them haven’t hit 30 yet.

And when you’re a female pop star, so many of these reinventions revolve around your sexuality.

Heck, when I was at Creme, Demi, Selena and Miley were part of the ‘purity ring’ club, where they all gushed about staying away from sex until marriage while their stylists dressed them in the tightest clothes possible.

The message from the marketing teams behind each of them was very clear: Sell sex, but don’t ever enjoy it.

This is the same battle Britney faced a decade previously – look like a Lolita, but make sure you never have sex with your long-term boyfriend because then you’ll be expected to cry about the shame of it on national television.

This was also the time of paparazzi trying to take up-skirt photos (exactly what it sounds like) of female actresses as soon as they turned 18; 18 – the age where you can legally have sex in America – was a big deal in pop culture.

There was a countdown for when the Olsen Twins turned 18. When Lindsay Lohan turned 18, Rolling Stone ran a breast-focused cover shoot with the headline: ‘Hot, ready and LEGAL’. And it was just fine! Totally accepted. These girls, they were always up for it, right?

And then we get to Taylor Swift.

Taylor is re-releasing Love Story, the song that made her famous, the song that I first heard in the shower (yes, I had a shower radio) when I was 20 and immediately started crying, because it hit me square in the middle of my pop culture diagram: love songs and references to Romeo and Juliet.

It’s from her second album, Fearless, which she wrote when she was aged 16-18 and which won her four Grammys, including Album of the Year. It’s also an album that no longer belongs to her and she can no longer perform, due to some millionaire f...wittery committed by her former manager. But we’ll get to that.

From 2008 onwards, Taylor became a big deal for her music and then, like it always does for women, her love life became the centre drama.

She never talked about a purity ring (thank God) and she sung pretty openly about sex from her third album onwards (Sparks Fly, an iconic song), plus she had the audacity to date a bunch of boys and look happy while doing so. Naturally, her punishment awaited.

To this day, she is still ridiculed about lyrics she wrote in her first couple of albums… songs she wrote herself when she was literally a teenager.

If I had had written an album when I was a teenager, it would have been about my crush who caught the bus, Kevin from The Backstreet Boys, worrying about my thighs, and, I don’t know, my cystic acne.

I’m just saying – we let powerful men get away with s... they pulled when they were young with the old line ‘boys will be boys! They were just kids!’; it just never seems that generosity is never extended to young women and their far more harmless explorations of teenage sexuality.

Because she had yet to have a public mental health crisis or rehab stint, it was clear that Taylor was never going to be the architect of her own media downfall.

Luckily, one was invented for her. After a long-lasting stoush with Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, where absolutely no-one (including Taylor) came out looking good, Taylor suddenly because persona non grata in pop culture and the long-awaited comeuppance began.

And so, she disappeared – in a way that celebrities can do these days. (As a side note, can you imagine how different Britney Spears’ life might have been if she had been allowed to disappear for a couple of years?)

It was only when she released her documentary Miss Americana on Netflix that the public got what it had been craving the whole time – the dark side of Taylor Swift’s fame.

An eating disorder, a sexual assault that she ended up being sued for and, then, the poisoned cherry on top, losing the rights to all her past music thanks to her old manager.

Finally, our hunger for bad news had been satisfied. We had seen her scars and so we could allow her back into the spotlight again.

It’s been interesting watching the roll-out of new music from so many of these female artists during a pandemic: Selena, Demi, Miley, Ariana Grande are among the singers who have eschewed the normal long roll-out of publicity in order to release their own music, without much of the media fanfare that typically accompanies it.

Taylor herself released two albums, without any of the (slightly inane) games she normally includes in the lead-up. You can’t help but wonder that – stripped of their endless touring, performances and appearances, these female artists have found some freedom in being able to just get back to the actual work.

If a pop star releases an album in the middle of a pandemic and no-one is around to give a shit about any of the outfits she’s wearing, does it still count? Turns out, yes.

Following the betrayal of Britney, Taylor, Miley et al by the media, you can see the slow change to have total ownership of their voice these artists have taken.

Social media can be a devil for many reasons but it has overtaken journalists and publicists as the middle man when it comes to how these women get portrayed to the public. Beyoncé has been instrumental in this – it was she who first released an album overnight back in 2013; a move that came without warning and changed the entire industry forever.

She who stopped giving interviews almost entirely, choosing to use her own platforms to get her message and music across. As a result, she’s never been more powerful and she’s never been more private.

As an explicit ‘F... you’ to the powers-that-be who bought her music from under her, Taylor has announced she will be re-recording all of her old albums.

Stories about millionaires against millionaires rarely draw sympathy from a reader but it does highlight how little actually belongs to the artist at the end of the day.

They can have limited control over their image, their public appearances, their private life, their work and their songs. And these are the success stories – these are the people whose names we know.

You have to hope that anyone young and female entering the music business has their eyes very wide open as to just what can go wrong – and what can go wrong even when everything goes right.

The first album Taylor is re-releasing is Fearless, the album that is the most chock-a-block with fairy-tale imagery and glittery optimism.

She’s promised that the songs will be new interpretations on the old originals and that seems only fair.

You can’t help but think that those fairy-tale songs are going to sound a whole lot different being sung by a 31-year-old who’s been through the public wringer then they were as a wide-eyed 16-year-old, on the cusp of making her dreams come true.

[dovesnroses]

For your consideration, I present to you...

Obey Me (if it was a ‘Magical Girl’ anime)

Lucifer: Fire - Lucifer, the devil himself, wields the power of hellfire. Conjures it at will most of the time through his hands. Could literally burst into flame if he wanted, but he would lose all of his clothes. Because of his fire, Lucifer runs hotter than his brothers. He wears gloves to not scorch the documents he sorts through.

Mamon: Wind - Mammon and his whirlwind personality are like the wind. He’s gentle but strong and sometimes he can be chaotic. Mammon uses his wind like a knife. His wings can create force enough to slash through any enemy. He is also the fastest brother. When not in a fight, his wind comes in handy for photo shoots. Think Beyoncé hair.

Levi: Water - it’s Canon that Leviathan was the Devildom’s highest ranking Naval Officer. His mood can determine how strong the current is if he’s not too careful, and he’s been known to start many a summer storm. Has caused many shipwrecks in his time. In his Otaku days, he chooses to pull water from the air so that he doesn’t have to get up to refill his water bottle.

Satan: Ice - Was something Lucifer could control in his Celestial Days but was lost when he birthed Satan. While Lucifer runs hot, Satan’s touch is as cold as ice. While Levi controls water, Satan can manipulate it to its physical form. Has definitely created ice to shove down his brother’s backs.

Asmo: Sound - Think Black Canary. Asmo’s voice can destroy eardrums and buildings. He’s also able to detect and distinguish sound. Was a spy during the celestial war. His wings can also create a high frequency attack. Unfortunately for Asmo, his powers don’t help his singing and he probably sings like a frog.

Beel: Thunder - Beel can use his strength to amplify the sounds he makes. A clap of his hands can send shocks through the air. Where Asmo’s sounds are high pitched, Beel’s rumble low like thunder. It relies mostly on how much force he puts out. Why his stomach growling can shake the house if he’s not careful.

Belphie: Lightning - Electric and angry - Belphie’s powers are the most chaotic. He controls them best when he’s around Beel, but alone his strikes are erratic. Next to Lucifer, his power is the deadliest. Electricity thrums through his body and comes out in static shocks. Will shock you on accident if he’s not careful.

MC: MC will use their ring of light to manipulate light similar to an Angel’s power. Can make physical objects or hone light alone into a weapon. While Angels have yellow almost white light, MC’s light appears as if its’ coming through a prism in multicolor hues. Most of their powers come from the ring and the magic they learn. Can use the pacts they have to enhance their magic, but can only be done with a brother’s speciality (can you tell I was watching too much pretear?)

Diavolo: Darkness: Our Demon Lord can manipulate the shadows around him. Can become shadow if he chooses or he can manipulate darkness into something physical. Has superhuman strength and can control fire to a degree. Can conjure anything he’d like from the dark, and sometimes creates a double of himself to stand in during important meetings.

Barbatos: Time - If this were that kind of anime Barbatos would be the strongest. If he chose, he could stop time. He doesn’t care enough to try it though and only uses his powers to protect those he cares for. The secret weapon of Devildom.

Solomon: Solomon is a powerful sorcerer and the ring of wisdom enhances that tenfold. His magic is unstoppable and is only rivaled by MC’s magic. Can use both darkness and light at will. Knows magic from all three realms. He’s been given permission by the highest authorities to know even the most secret of spells.

Simeon and Luke: Angels have different powers. They’re healers, and they do this by expending their own energy. Simeon is an exceptionally good healer and would be able to revive someone/thing back from the dead. Is specialized to work more with sentient beings. Luke’s healing is geared towards smaller things. Since he’s still young he works on plants to develop his powers. Imagine him seeing a trampled flower and being able to pull the plant up and growing again.

All angels can use light as a weapon. Simeon wields a golden spear.

[jbbuckybarnes]

Hated

Bucky x Reader Trope: Accidental Eavesdropping Descr: Angst & Fluff

Masterlist

You wanted to walk into the kitchen when you heard your name fall from Bucky’s lips. You stopped in your tracks and decided to turn around until they were finished mentioning you in there. Until you heard what it was about. “She acts like she has pity for all of us. It makes me uncomfortable. She’s trying too hard.” you turned around and ran to your room after these words. Your only fear with the team was to be disliked by them. You joined the group only days before Bucky and always did your best to be there for everybody, to not be annoying and to learn enough about them. “It concerns me, she’s overworking herself where she shouldn’t. She’s way too worried. I feel like she needs the same level of attention she gives to us and we’re not giving that to her.” he finished his little monologue and Steve pressed his lips together with a nod. Bucky has been your training partner since you both came to the compound and you always tried your best to help him with the problems he had with his PTSD. He was still very distanced towards you, but not in a negative way. At least that’s what you thought until you accidentally eavesdropped on him talking about you. You decided to not eat breakfast, your appetite was gone anyways and you still had a few episodes of Brooklyn 99 left to watch. Bucky noticed when you didn’t come to eat breakfast. It worried him, you always made sure everyone ate enough and you talked about the shows you currently watched every evening. “Friday? Can you deny the rest of the team access to my room? Except for Tony, of course.” you looked at the ceiling. “Of course.” the gentle female computer voice answered. - “Friday? Can you tell me where Y/N is?” the brunette asked after everyone had finished breakfast and went about their day. “She is in her room. It seems like she doesn’t want to be disturbed.” the voice answered him. “Is she medically okay?” he asked. “Yes, her vitals are normal. She seems to be upset but wants to be left alone.” she informed him. He slowly exhaled with a frown. This wasn’t like you at all and he knew something must’ve happened in the last 24 hours.

“Y/N?” he knocked against your door before turning the door knob, expecting the door to open. “Can you let me in?” he asked with a calm voice and you put on headphones to not hear his voice anymore. “If you need me, I’m-” music interrupted his voice and a tear ran down your face. He turned away from the door and walked towards the training area. “Do you think someone upset Y/N?” Bucky looked at Steve with a frown. “Might be the case.” he shrugged before continuing his set of pull-up’s. “She didn’t eat, I can’t open her door. I hope everything is okay.” he started his own workout. “She’s a big girl. Probably just needs a day off.” came back. After blasting Linkin Park and Beyonce through your headphones for almost two hours you thought yourself capable to continue a fairly normal day. You’d have to figure out ways to get past the soldier but you couldn’t let this interfere with your life too much. With headphones on a low volume and in cozy clothes you made your way to the kitchen to at least eat a sandwich. “Oh my god, Y/N. You’re okay. What happe-” he tried to hug you but you walked right past him. Under his confused glare you made yourself a big sandwich with Aerosmith blasting guitar solos through your ears. Cleaned up, started the dishwasher and made your way to the training room. “Hey, no food in the training room.” Sam joked and your eyes were venom. “Get off my nonexistent dick, pigeon.” he never saw you this aggravated and any comeback in his head vanished with his shock. You sat down on the box in front of the big window, eating your sandwich, trying to calm down. One side of your headphones was slowly taken out, “Who do I need to beat up, babygirl?” Sam meant it, he never saw you this irritated before and whoever was responsible for this should get a concussion of a lifetime. “Bucky.” you mumbled and just saying his name ruined your mood again and made you lose a tear. Arms were gently placed around you and pulled you in, “What did tin-man do to you?” “He said…that I act like I pity all of you and…” a sob left you and he started frowning, “…that I make him uncomfortable and that I’m trying too hard. I heard it when I wanted to get breakfast this morning.” He would lie if he said he wasn’t angry at his friend for making you feel like this. “Hey, babygirl. Listen to me.” he took your face in his hands, “You are the best teammate out of all of them. You make us sandwiches, make sure we eat and drink enough, stitch us up after missions. You don’t make me uncomfortable ever. You’re not annoying. Sure, mothering me isn’t always what I prefer but I would never take you for granted like that.” he tried to soothe you. “Thank you, Sam.” you got the tears off your face. “No problem. You deserve to hear that every once in a while.” he hugged you again. “Can I work out with you?” you looked up at him and a soft smile formed on his face. “Of course, but I think you should eat that sandwich first.” he nudged his head over and you nodded. “I think I did something wrong…but I don’t know what?” Bucky said to his best friend. “Try to talk to her later or whenever she wants to talk to you again.” his hand was on Bucky’s shoulder when they heard you laugh and walk in.

-

You walked into the kitchen laughing at one of Sam’s joke and ignored the rest of the room. “You lost the bet, not my fault.” he smiled at you. “Fine. I’ll make you a sandwich. But only cause you’ve been such good company today.” you gave him a stern look. “Don’t want to see you sad, babygirl.” he said sitting at the counter. “Don’t flatter yourself too much. Half of the work was done by Beyoncé on my headphones.” you snorted before preparing him a sandwich and presenting it to him. “THIS is what victory tastes like.” he grinned and you both fell into a laughing fit. You both had the tradition of journaling together in silence twice a week and when you didn’t show up for that, he knew he did something wrong. It must’ve been him. The last thing he said to you the day before was a normal “Sleep tight, Sugar Plum.” He called you that, not because of actual sugar plums, but because plums were his favorite and you were his favorite. You were more than just his favorite but you didn’t know that. He actually planned on getting everyone on board with giving you the love back that you gave everyone. That was what he had talked about earlier that day with Steve. He wanted to tell you sometime in the coming weeks. Wanted to make you emotionally better by telling everyone to treat you a little better. And here he sat alone on the couch, you hated him and he didn’t know why. “Tasha?” he looked towards the redhead that had just walked in and got her attention. “James?” she smiled. “Do you know what I did for Y/N to be so cold towards me? I don’t remember saying anything hurtful or triggering. Maybe I’m just incredibly dumb but…would you please do me a favor and find out?” he looked so heartbroken. “Talk to her, Buck.” she suggested. “She won’t let me.” he bit his lip nervously. Sam walked in with a scolding look, “Never saw someone make such a mess while being so obviously in love, holy.” “What?” Bucky was confused. “Wait, you don’t know what you did?” Sam’s eyebrows raised up. “Nobody is telling me, no.” he answered and let himself fall against the couch cushion. “I played with the idea of breaking your nose and giving you a concussion when she told me.” his hand went over his face. Nat left the room but was clearly still listening in. “You talked about her this morning.” Sam started and a nod came back. “You said she acts like she’s pitying all of us, that she makes you uncomfortable and that she’s trying too hard. Tell me WHERE you wouldn’t be mad in her skin?” he smacked his friend over the head. “Fuck, that wasn’t even meant that way. I was talking to Steve about her getting too deep into this whole caring and mothering thing when she feels mentally unstable. I just asked him if he was on board with the idea of asking the team to treat her a little better…so that she feels better again. She must’ve heard only the first part, shit.” he rubbed his temples. “Then go and fix it, you absolute dumbass of a man.” he was really not having it. “I will.” he stood up to go straight to your room. Four knocks, Bucky. “Y/N, can we please talk?” he asked with his softest voice. You ignored him deliberately, for good reasons. “I know why you’re mad but that’s not what I actually said.” his forehead was against your door. “Friday? Can you play the kitchen surveillance footage of Steve and me this morning. On her screen?” he asked and you took your headphones out. Your TV switched to a video of the kitchen. He made you relive this? Really? * “What’s wrong, buddy?” “I don’t know. I’m just concerned for Y/N.” “Why? Something wrong?” Steve asked concerned. “I know she probably doesn’t show it as obvious to the rest of you but she seems very mentally drained. But instead of putting herself first she keeps giving. She acts like she has pity for all of us. It makes me uncomfortable. She’s trying too hard. It concerns me, she’s overworking herself where she shouldn’t. She’s way too worried. I feel like she needs the same level of attention she gives to us and we’re not giving that to her.” “We should talk to the others about that.” Steve answered. “God, I love her. I just don’t want her to end up completely shattered.” “When did you plan on telling her?” “I don’t know. Probably when she starts getting better. I don’t want to be manipulative by accident.” “Hey, it’s gonna work out fine. Trust me.” he calmed down his friend.

*

With a shocked face your TV went back to a screen saver. Slowly and shaky you made your way to the door and opened it to see a Bucky that was internally beating himself up. “I’m so sorry.” he seriously looked like a hurt puppy. You closed the door behind him. “I didn’t know you were there. I said it in all the wrong ways. I should’ve stopped after the first two sentences. I was so worried for you. I’m so sorry.” he was a waterfall of words. “It’s okay, Bucky.” you both had sat down on your bed and you took his hands. “It’s okay. It’s okay.” you drew circles on the back of his hands to soothe him and get him out of his intrusive thoughts. “I’m so sorry.” he looked at you again. “Hey, it’s okay. We would’ve worked it out sooner or later. It’s okay.” you hugged him. “Why are you so nice to me after I made you feel so awful?” he asked in a shaky voice. “Cause there is an explanation for it and I love you. Why would I hold grudges against you.” you took his head into your hands. “Really. I mean it when I say it’s okay, Bucky.” now he grabbed you into a tight hug. “I’ll choose my words better next time. I promise.” he mumbled. “I hope Sam didn’t hurt you.” you giggled while the hug broke apart. “Smacked me over the head.” he huffed with a small smile. “Poor Bucky Bear.” you jokingly pitied him. “I hope you don’t change because of what I said. I love you the way you are, okay? Just…maybe try to overwork yourself less.” his hands went over your waist and hips. “Sorry I missed out on our journaling bit.” your hand went through his hair soothingly. “You know, I planned on confessing to you in a completely different way. Had it planned out.” he looked at you with a shy smirk. “You still have time,” you smiled, “What was the plan?” “Telling you why I call you Sugar Plum.” he chuckled. “And why do you call me that?” your grin got wider. “Sugar, cause that’s how I called girls in the 40’s. Plum because they are my favorite fruit and you’re my favorite person. You’re way more than my favorite person and I thought you deserve to know that.” A boyish but shy smile was on his face and he was blushing. “Gosh, hopeless romantic.” you rolled your eyes before closing the distance between the two of you. He pulled you onto his lap, one hand on your lower back, one hand messing with your hair. His lips were soft, tasted like cinnamon, the cinnamon buns you’d left on the coffee table. After he kissed you dizzy he looked at you with your messed up hair and kiss-swollen lips. “Still wanna journal together?” he asked with the happiest smile ever. “Of course. Don’t get too touchy feely tho.” you winked before climbing off of his legs and walked towards the door with a, “Friday, grant the team access to my room again when I’m in it. And Bucky also when I’m not in it.” he eyed you from behind with heart-eyes that were visible to Alaska. “Gosh, you can do that now without getting possibly caught. I’m not responsible for broken noses and dents in walls.” you smirked over your shoulder. This journaling date was definitely different from the others.

[weregonnaneedmorewhiskey]

Covet

Chapter 1- “It’s hot girl spring break, get the stick out of your ass”

Synopsis: covet

/ˈkʌvɪt/

verb

yearn to possess (something, especially something belonging to another)

When Karla, a college senior meets James Brookes, a no BS marketing exec infamous for getting his way, she quickly gets into a relationship with him. But what will she do when his very shady past comes to surface and how far will James go in order to get what he wants?

Songs for this chapter:

Savage Remix- Megan Thee Stallion ft Beyoncé

Excuse Me Miss- Jay Z ft Pharrell

Act Up- City Girls

Karla

March, 20th.

"Ok, what are you doing?" Taty's loud ass just had to walk in and interrupt the peace I was in enjoying in my hotel room.

"I'm reading" I wave my book in the air.

"Yes, I see you reading and you shouldn't be. Karla, we did not fly all the way from San Francisco to Miami for you to sit indoors with Audre Lorde" Taty walls towards me and grabs my book from my hands.

"Well you want me to relax right?" I ask her. "Yes with some Don Julio, in a club and maybe you go home with a man. It is Hot Girl Spring Break, get the stick of your ass" I now spot the bottle of Don Julio in her other hands.

"You're gonna make drink that?" I already know the answer

"Yes but by not here. Chanel found out this party they're having at this beach house and we're going. Her and Adrienne are already there" She passes me a black micro bikini. "And you're wearing THAT to the party so go get dressed. Now."

Taking the book from her hands, I put under my pillow and begrudgingly go into the bathroom to go change. It's been a while since I went a party so one in a beach house sounds like fun.

"Ok I'm ready. Let me just grab a sarong to wrap around my ass so it's not just hanging out the entire time" I walk out of the bathroom. Looking through my bag, I see something that wasn't originally in there.

"Taty?"

"Yeah"

I hold up the pack of condoms that magically appeared in my bag because I'm sure I didn't pack them.

"Did you put these in my bag?" I know she put them in there because it's such a Taty thing to do.

"Yeah, because I'm surprised you didn't bring any with you" She looks at me like I have two heads for asking that question.

"Look, I'm all for a hot girl spring break but I'm not looking to fuck a random dude. Getting drunk with my girls, that sounds like a good time"

"NOW...you are speaking my language. Well partially because I still don't get why you won't hook up with a random dude but enough chit chat. Let's go".

What sprung to mind when Taty said "beach house party" I was expecting a decent sized house and pool with a few kegs and red cups. The reality was literally something out of a Migos video.

Actually I wouldn't be surprised if all a sudden Offset or Quavo just popped out. Half of the girls here were influencers, making sure to get the perfect IG photo for their paid partnership with FashionNova with a City Girls or Meg Thee Stallion lyric as their caption. Speaking of taking pictures for the gram...

"Bitch...I need a picture with one of the pool floaties!" Chanel shouts from across the pool. Taty is all systems go to, phone at the ready to take the picture.

"Let see it!"

Chanel is the dream IG model. I mean she could easily be a runway model. That's how pretty she is. She screams glamour and diamonds. An aesthetic she lives by.

"I'm surprised you got her out" She says to Taty.

"Can't I go a party without being dragged?" They act as if all I do is stay indoors. We haven't even been in Miami longer than a day and I get dragged for reading in the room.

"Yes you can but sometimes you need a little convincing"

Queen B, want no smoke with me. Then turned this motherfucker up 800 degrees. The opening bars of Savage Remix starts playing and I swear every chick in this party just lost their shit includes.

Bougie, he say the way that thang move is a movie. Adrienne joins us with a bottle of Hennessy in her hand ready for me to take a sip from. The familiar burn runs down my throat. The four of us start rapping the lyrics to each other.

"Hips tick tok when I dance, on that demon time, she might start an only fans" I start whining my hips and Chanel's loud ass starts hyping me up

"If you want to see some real ass, baby here's your chance" Chanel screams.

My eyes then spot someone looking at me. He's over in a private section of the party. There's a few girls around him but he seems to not be focused on them and rather his gaze is focused on me.

"Karla, why that white dude staring at you like that. You know him or something" Taty has also noticed him staring at me.

"I don't know that man. He's probably Miami community dick anyway" I'm not entirely sold on what I said but a part of me wouldn't be surprised if he was.

"Community dick or not, he's fine. And I don't even like white men like that" Chanel gives her two cents

"Please say that louder with your racist ass. I'm sure he heard you the first time" I joke. Taty and Adrienne are now lounging on a chaise lounge and have swapped their bottles. My gaze returns back to the private section of the party and he's whispers into a waiter's ear but his gaze is still on me.

"Karla! You still need to drink some Don Julio. You've already drank some Henny" I'm sure Adrienne is already a bit tipsy. She's always been the one to get drunk the fastest but can wake up in the morning with no hangover. It's annoying

"Excuse me miss?" I snap out of my thoughts to see the same waiter with a Margarita.

"Sorry, I didn't order this"

"I know Miss. It's been paid for by Mr Brooks" he says.

"Girl, take it or I will" Taty says

"Hey it's my drink. I'll take it. Thank you"

"Karla, you should talk to him. Thank him up close and personal" Adrienne says with a wink. I know what that means and that's not happening.

"I'm sure he'd appreciate that" Of course Chanel is behind this.

"Alright! What do you want me to do? Suck his dick for buying me drink. Goddamn. You're right, I should say thank you to him. I'm going up there".

Jay Z 's Excuse Me Miss, one of my favourite tracks starts playing through the party

Excuse me, what's your name? I see some ladies tonight that should be hanging with Jay Z, Jay Z

As I walk to his section of the party, I realise how tall he is. Height wise around 6'1, 6'2, hair is slicked back. Ocean blue eyes. He's dressed pretty casual. White shirt, unbuttoned. White tank top and some shorts. Cartier Watch and a Corona in his hand. Got a little stubble on his face.

"H-Hi" Why is my voice sounding so nervous?

"James Brooks" 

Excuse me Miss, what's your name. Can you come, hang with me. Possibly can I take you home tonight

"Karla. Thanks for the drink, that was nice of you" I go to sit opposite him. Now that I'm closer, I see his eyes aren't totally blue. He has a small brown fleck in his right eye. I guess even things that appear to be perfect have their little cracks.

"Thought it would be a nice party favour" he smiles.

"Is this your party?" Would make a lot of sense. He definitely looks like someone who is balling.

"No, it's my client's. But my agency helped organise it so I thought I'd come by. Have some fun. Meet some new people" A smirk crosses his face when mentions the last part.

"Well you're certainly the people person aren't you? I ask.

He laughs. Why am I flirting with this random guy that bought me a cocktail. It must be the Hennessy.

"You live in Miami?"

"No, I'm from the bay. San Francisco. I'm just here with my girls for spring break"

"Nice. I wouldn't mind showing you around Miami. Take you to couple nice spots" I don't know why am immediately taking him up on his offer because I barely give a guy the time of the day but fuck it!

"Maybe you can" He reaches into his wallet and passes me a business card. "You really walk around with business cards. You're that guy?"

"I'm not. I just occasionally take one with him for...insurance" That goddamn smirk come back and it's kind of sexy.

"Insurance? Well I should get back to my friends. I'll see you around" As I walk away, I hear "Hopefully you will"

"What did he want?" Taty asks. "Nothing really, he was just being nice and gave me his number" I wave the card around before putting in my purse. Don't wanna lose that.

"So nice he gave you his number?" Her face now has the famous Taty "that's bullshit" expression, typically reserved for men.

"Karla, no one is that nice. You gonna call him?" Chanel asks

"Maybe. Don't see the harm in trying" I look back up to where he's sitting and he raises his bottle. In response I raise my glass in his direction.

"Well, at least he's fine" Adrienne chimes in

A/N- Hi, so a couple things. Jorja Smith is Karla, in case you didn't guess from the cover. Also they'll be different songs associated with each chapter because I listen to music when I write to sort of capture the environment the characters are in since I visualise the songs. (It's odd I know) Hence the reason why you'll see lyrics in italics

[watchmegetobsessed]

Red thong - Shawn Mendes

😌😌😌😌 its THAT smut 😏😏😏😏

drabble list masterlist

Post-concert Shawn is out of this world for sure, and one of your favorites. His blood is usually still boiling from the ecstasy he just experienced on stage, he is talking louder, but you’re not sure if it’s because of the adrenaline or because his hearing is temporarily damaged from all the screaming in the arena. He jumps around, screams at you happily, sometimes throws you over his shoulder and runs down the hall while your laughter echoes from the walls.

Tonight is no different, Shawn jumps down the steps from the stage and runs right up to you, picking you up and swirling you around.

“Babe!” he screams, his sweaty body pressed against yours, but you don’t mind. “Tonight was awesome!”

“Yes it was, you were great!” you laugh holding onto his broad shoulders.

When your feet are back on the ground he grabs your hand and you head to his dressing room.

“Great job tonight, kiddo!” Andrew grins at him when you meet him in the hallway and they highfive happily.

“Thanks. So I have the night off, right?”

“Yeah, enjoy,” he smirks giving you a look too and you almost immediately blush.

Your sex life with Shawn is a constant joke around the team and at first it bothered you so bad you even started crying one night when Brian took it a little too far, but Shawn soon changed your perspective. You and him are basically the only couple on tour ergo the only ones doing the deed regularly, to be exact every day. The guys are pretty jealous of Shawn living his best life, traveling the world with his best friends and his girlfriend, having sex in a different city every other night. Soon you learned to just get in on the joking and turn it around and let them know you are not ashamed to satisfy your boyfriend every damn night.

Shawn pulls you into his dressing room and starts undressing immediately, throwing his sweaty clothes to the ground while you walk over to the small couch by the wall, sit down and just watch him get around the room, a goofy smile on his pink lips. He starts humming a song and when he kicks his pants off he starts to play an imaginary guitar and you swear this is one of the hottest things you’ve ever seen. Your high on adrenaline, hot boyfriend in only his boxers, playing an air guitar, his body shiny from the thin layer of sweat, luscious curls bouncing with each movement.

He notices your eyes on him and smirking at you he finishes his silent solo, walking over to you. Leaning down he presses his palms into the cushion next to your sides, holding himself up on his arms while he grins at you.

“So, we have the evening to ourselves, no team dinner, no hangout with the guys, just us,” he sighs satisfied. “Wanna know what I’ve been thinking about all day?”

“Mm, what?” you smile at him cheekily, tilting your head to the side while your eyes keep wandering down to his lips.

“That red thong you have on.”

Your eyebrows arch high at his blunt statement, but you’re not too surprised. He can be a sweet puppy some days, but then he would make the dirtiest comments when it’s just the two of you, making you wet at the oddest places, like when he told you at the airport, out of the blue how he wants to finger you on the plane. That flight is in the top three for sure till this day.

“How do you know I have a red thong on?” you ask, remembering he was still asleep when you got dressed in the morning.

He licks his lips playfully shrugging his shoulders shortly.

“You didn’t wake me up, I was up earlier, I just like watching you get ready in the morning.”

“Sneaky,” you smirk at him leaning closer and kissing him shortly. “So, what about my thong then?”

“I want it gone, so I’ll have a quick shower and you and I leave as soon as possible,” he informs you about his plans before pecking your lips and straightening up he disappears in the bathroom.

About forty minutes later the car pulls up at the hotel and you rush inside before anyone could recognize him. The elevator ride up is basically a torture. He keeps biting into his bottom lip, driving you crazy while he warns you if you lick your lips one more time he is going to fuck you right there in the elevator.

“Is that a threat or a promise?” you cheekily ask and he just takes a deep breath, a smile hiding on his perfectly shaped lips as he turns away from you. You smile to yourself, counting the floors impatiently.

He grabs your hand when the doors open and the two of you run down the hallway, right into your room and the moment the door closes behind you he pushes you against it, lips hungrily tasting yours as his hands slide down to the back of your thighs and he picks you up, your legs wrapping around his waist.

It’s nothing more than just eager make out until he brings you to the bed, gently putting you down and standing up right in front of you. His eyes are dark and you push your thighs together because he is making you feel things for sure.

“Take your dress off,” he simply says and you obey, pulling your grey bodycon dress off while he starts stripping too. “The bra too,” he adds.

Your lacy bra that matches the thong gets tossed to the side and you lie almost fully naked on the bed while you watch him pull his boxers down and stands tall and very naked, staring down at you hungrily, already hard for you. It’s one majestic view and you try to remember it for the times when you are far away from him.

“So, you like my thong?” you seductively ask in a low voice as you slowly open your legs, giving him a great view of your lower part.

“It’s pretty nice, but we are getting rid of it,” he smirks at you as he gets down on his knees.

Your breathing fastens as you watch his face get between your legs. He gently kisses you through the lacy fabric, keeping eye-contact the whole time. Then very slowly he takes it between his teeth and starts pulling it down. You lift your hips to help him out and can’t help but bite into your lip at the sight of him with your thong between his teeth.

Once it’s off of your body he doesn’t let go of it, instead he stands up and looks down at you lustfully, the lingerie hanging from his mouth and you swear you almost cum just from this view.

“You gonna keep chewing on that or will you fuck me?” you impatiently ask it, because your vagina just can’t take it anymore, you need him inside you. He turns his head and lets the lacy piece fall to the ground before he turns back, playfully smirking at you.

“Oh, I will. Don’t worry babe.”

In the blink of an eye he gets on top of you, lips crashing down on yours while one of his hands slide to your ass, pulling your hips close to him so you can feel just how hard he is. His lips travel down on your neck, collarbones and chest while soft moans escape your mouth, enjoying the intimacy.

Some girls complain about how their boyfriends don’t want to go down on them. With Shawn, it’s not the case, he is willing to do it any time of the day, literally. And tonight is no different either.

“Fuck,” you sigh in ecstasy when his wet tongue meets your heated clit. He knows just exactly what makes you lose your mind, he basically performs on you the entire alphabet, making you beg for more and more with each movement.

You already know he doesn’t let you cum, but still, when he suddenly moves away from your lower body you ache for more.

“Soon, baby,” he whispers kissing you sloppily as he positions himself between your legs. “I love you,” he breathes out as he slowly but surely pushes into you.

“Shawn!” you moan his name as he picks up a demanding, fast pace with his movements. It’s obvious he doesn’t want to play any longer either.

You move your hips in sync with his rhythm, opening up your legs so he can thrust into you as deep as possible. You watch his muscles on his arm and chest flexing as he is holding himself up above you, his curls covering his forehead, eyes closed, lips parted as he starts panting and moaning himself.

“Fuck, I’m so close,” he rambles burying his face in your neck.

“Me too,” you breathe out, already feeling your climax reaching your body.

His hips smash against you a few more times before his movements become uncontrollable, he falls out of his rhythm and he moans his name in a shaky tone. Just seeing him lose himself throws you over the edge and you try to keep up the ecstasy just a little longer by moving your hips while you’re both just keep moaning.

Instead of falling to the bed next to you, he gets up, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he walks into the bathroom and returns with a wet towel, gently cleaning you up, something he never misses to do and you are always amazed by how much he cares about you.

Once you are all cleaned up he tosses the towel to the ground and finally lies besides you, pulling you into his arms, kissing your forehead gently.

“Wanna know what I’m thinking about?” he asks, breaking the silence.

“My red thong?” you playfully ask grinning up at you. He just smirks shaking his head no.

“Well, now I’m thinking about that, but before, I was thinking about how lucky I am.”

“You are?” you softly ask laying your palm out on his bare chest, gently stroking his soft skin.

“Mhmm, because I’m literally living my dream and I get to share it with the most amazing woman.”

“Didn’t know Beyoncé is here with you.”

He starts laughing, his chest vibrating under your hand and you watch him in awe. His laugh is your favorite.

“I’m hiding her in one of the buses.”

“Rude, I want to meet her too!”

“I’ll arrange it for you, babe,” he smiles down, pressing a kiss to the crown of your head before pulling the covers over you.

[imaginesandideas]

That dress

requested by my dear @youthbitch 🖤 and inspired by Freakum Dress by Beyoncé and That Dress by Pale White (guess where the title came from).

summary: You’re going out to have some fun and forget about Warren. But can Warren forget you? Especially in THAT dress?

WARNINGS: some swearing, drinking, bunch of innuendos, but generally FLUFF

word count: 2337

~~~~~

“Oh miss! That jealous fool better show up then.” Jean delivered with her hands raised in a gesture of unexpected awe as she entered your dorm. You only shot her a knowing smirk and continued admiring yourself in the mirror. And it was a sight to behold.

The dress was perfect. You know that feeling when suddenly that specific dress catches your eye at the store, and then you asses it and you’re almost completely convinced until you actually try it on and then you don’t want to take it off, like, ever?

Yes. That’s the dress.

It fitted you - perfectly. As if it was tailor-made with your gorgeous self in mind. Not too short, not too tight, not too loose. You know, enough to catch some eyes but not quite as to make people gouge them out. Though you wouldn’t mind blinding some individuals with your glowing appearance.

Cause you did glow.

World seemed to come to a stop as you and Jean entered the club hand in hand, dressed to the nines. Normally you’d say it’s your redheaded friend that catches everyone’s attention. But this time it felt like your night in every sense of the word. It was your time to shine.

After all the tears you’ve shed, all the downs and less frequent ups, you’ve decided it’s high time to get over your ex and finally have some fucking fun.

Because as much as you loved Warren, his impetuous nature and excessive jealousy was slowly driving you insane. Around a week after the breakup you’ve gotten to the point where you’ve realised it was never your fault, and in fact, you’ve missed the sweet freedom of single life.

So there you were, looking drop dead gorgeous, throwing enchanting smiles in every direction.

You approached the booth you spotted your friends in, swaying your hips to the beat along the way.

“____ ! I can’t remember you being so radiant before!” Jubilee teased and you flashed your friends a smile at the compliment.

The evening was about to go better than you’d previously thought. And each praise only fuelled your confidence.

Like everyone else you’ve had better and worse days. Worse? Seemed unbearable, you couldn’t look at yourself without constantly criticising every detail, even the tiniest mistake or minor failure. It took you a long way to become the person you are. Warren - while he was still by your side, was your biggest supporter. After all he’s been through, he knew more than well how hard it is to accept yourself.

And there you were, single, bold and proud in your dream dress. And you were about to have fun. So much fun...

The club was slowly filling up with mutants, many of them unfamiliar to you. You did recognise some faces from the mansion, some of them were your friends, but others were complete strangers with their unique mutations and boldness you had yet to achieve. They had that pride emanating from them, the one that you first noticed in Raven. She has always been a role model for you in a way. And now, surrounded by people much like her you felt a rush of courage in your veins.

No more hiding. No more staying in the darkness.

After few drinks and much needed catching up with your friends in the comfort and relative privacy provided by the booth, you entered the dance floor. Dragging Jean with you.

“_____ is it necessary? I don’t think I’ve drunk enough.” She yelled over the buzzing music. You only sniggered.

“Oh please! We both know you don’t need alcohol to have some fun every once in a while. And besides - you’ve promised to have a great time with me tonight!”

“Oh fine!”

The dance floor was cramped, the bodies around you exuded heat and the energy you couldn’t describe even if you tried. Yet you felt so at home. Like you belonged there.

You made enough space for the two of you to dance in your own rhythm, occasionally twirling and pulling each other closer. Just in case if someone was close to crushing one of you.

Sometimes you’d feel unfamiliar hands on your back, or sweaty limbs grazing you. From time to time you’d feel like someone was observing you. But you didn’t really care. Not while newfound energy was pumping in your veins. You let yourself get lost in the beat, eyes closing, only music leading you.

Until you realised you’ve lost Jean in the crowd somewhere. Panic washed over you and you decided to get out of the dance floor to find a better spot to look for her. Bar could do, so you forcefully pushed your way through the gathered crowd.

Some eyes that locked with your own were distant, zoned out, as if they were somewhere else in their ecstatic state. Not to mention some wasted individuals trying to pull you to them for a dance. Their hands were mindlessly grabbing your hips and arms. But you needed to get out. It was all too much, you needed to breathe, free yourself. And find Jean.

You pushed another slow-dancing couple out of your way and sent them one more apologetic look before finally reaching the bar. You turned around to have a look around the room, but you couldn’t spot Jean. And your booth in the far back of the room was empty.

You were ready to leave at that point, just grab your purse and go. But then you heard Jean’s voice in your head telling you that she’s in another booth, sharing drinks with Scott. Screw your girls night.

And then you saw him.

Out of all people you’ve actually expected to see, he decided to show up too. For what? To spy on you? To check if you’d planned on leaving hand in hand with someone else?

And he was staring at you. Wide-eyed, paralysed like a deer in headlights just few meters away from you. And he didn’t even say a word before you were being forcefully pulled out of the room. You weren’t able to say anything either. His grip was both harsh yet careful not to cause you any pain. You kept staring at his back until he opened the door to the bathroom. Luckily for you it was empty.

“Are you out of your mind?!”

He sneered spinning around after he’s locked the door and it threw you back to the moment.

“Excuse me?”

“Oh don’t act like you don’t know what I fucking mean!”

You were frowning as you leaned back on the cold counter. You crossed your arms over your chest.

“I don’t need your permission to do anything.” You exclaimed confidently to which he responded with exaggerated huff and threw his arms up in the air. “We’re not together Warren. I can do whatever I want and I don’t need no judgment from you or anyone else for that matter. Hell, I never even asked for it!”

“Then stop doing that!”

“Stop doing what?!”

He kept pacing around the room, tiles echoed his steps ominously. It was clear that he was struggling to comment on that without coming off as bitter. He was bitter, but he couldn’t give you that satisfaction. Not yet.

Someone abruptly pulled by the doorknob. Unsuccessfully so the next thing you heard was loud banging at the door.

“It’s occupied dickhead!” Warren barked at the door. It worked and soon you dived back into uncomfortable silence.

It must have been minutes without a word from him, and it was becoming unbearable. You waved your hand at him.

“Hm? You’re thinking or-?”

He sighed, almost embarrassed.

“Your dress, okay?! I meant your dress! I meant the way you look, the way people look at you, the way it makes me feel.”

You were, without a doubt, completely stunned. The dress you were wearing? Well, you meant to look good but... was it really that easy to light him up?

You felt a rush of confidence in your spine. The words left your mouth much quicker than idea for his response crossed your mind. But it was too late. And really - what could you lose?

“And how exactly does it make you feel?” You teased batting your eyelashes. You could sense him tense even more, heat radiating off his body even though you were the one who’s been dancing your soul off for the past hour. He couldn’t force himself to look at you directly, though you could notice him gazing at your legs and cleavage from the corner of his eye.

Surprisingly you felt great with it. Knowing that he’s so desperate, that he’s probably watched you twirl in that dress surrounded by strangers. Strangers who were much closer to you than he was in that moment, strangers who could reach to you, who could touch you.

And where was that school-famous rebel, that local playboy you used to long for so badly? He was gone, barely standing straight in your breathtaking glow. Almost on his knees, and you were pretty sure that soon enough you could make him bow.

“I don’t like you like this.”

“Why?” You asked straightening your posture. You’d break him, you just needed him to admit it.

“Makes me jealous. Makes me want to push all those morons out of my way and take you home. Makes me want to rip it off you and you’re not even mine anymore.”

The thought itself made you bite your lip. You’ve missed that sweet mix of his protective nature and raw lust. You’ve missed that possessiveness of his. Cause no matter how often you two would fight because of it, he could always persuade you with his pretty eyes and sweet promises of change.

Now you had him in your pocket. And it felt glorious.

“Rip it off? Why?” You quietly spoked as you walked up to him. He looked up at an instant sensing the change in your attitude. Soon he was grinning, only a thin of coyness left between you and him.

“Cause I know what’s underneath and I miss it.” Very smooth, you thought.

“Is that so? You think you still deserve it?”

“I can work for it!” He spoke straightening his whole posture. “I’ll earn it. I’ll earn YOU back. Just give me a chance _____. Please!”

He was pretty much begging now. So close to dropping to his knees and kissing his way up to your forgiveness. And then he actually did, his wings spreading behind his back like a blockade for you to stay.

“Please _____. I’m sorry, I’ve been a fucking moron but please let me prove you that I’ve changed.” He was kneeling down at your feet and as much as it surprised you, it felt absolutely terrific. His hands delicately skimmed up and down your legs, his eyes shining with hope as he admired you. A goddess.

You’ve missed those hands, and eyes... and him.

And as much as it was empowering to watch him collapse at your feet begging, you’ve felt like it was enough.

“So? Please?”

“First of all, stand up. I don’t like to feel like a tower.” You sighed defeated and he stood up as if on command. “Second, you I’m not going to promise you anything, at least for now. But I can give you that one more chance.”

His smile grew impossibly wide, emphasising the adorable blush on his cheeks.

“Shit, can I kiss you now? I can’t wait any longer.”

“Well, I’d like that.” You answered with a click of your tongue and he responded immediately closing the gap between you, making you gasp.

“My tigress.” He growled before grabbing you by the hips and kissing you ferociously. It felt so needy, so raw you could barely stand on your feet as he firmly pulled you to him. He kept sucking the air out of your lungs, grasping at your curves as you wrapped your hands tightly around his neck. Suddenly he picked you up and spun you around which made you detach from his lips and squeal.

“Put me down! Warren!”

“Alright, alright! Everything for the princess.” He joked which earned him a small punch in the arm. As much as you enjoyed all different kinds of fun with Warren, wet bathroom tiles weren’t exactly a good spot for it. Though you kept your hands where you liked them the most. Around that gorgeous neck of his.

“Where did the tigress go now, huh?” You continued your frisky game, only a bit softened by the princess nickname.

“Oh she’s still there. I could see her claws and fangs from afar. Swaying her hips like a goddess on that dance floor.” You leaned away from him enough to take his entire face in and eyed him suspiciously.

“Is that why you showed up?”

“Well...” His cheeks flushed as his neck slowly started turning red, accentuating the veins on his neck. He tried looking away but he knew it was pointless with you pretty much still in his arms. “I wanted to get you back. So, that, and umm... You wearing that dress really makes me, uhh, sensitive.”

“Oh! Okay. So I guess I’ll need to stop wearing it, I don’t want you walking around-“

“No no!”

He reacted so quickly you didn’t even get a chance to put the pieces together. But lucky for you, for once he did not leave you hanging.

“I mean, you can wear it. But... maybe not when we go to more official events together? Or you can just wear it inside my dorm maybe?”

“Is that an invitation?”

“Could be. Only if you promise not to hate me if the dress gets wrinkled on the floor.” He said winking at you with lust beaming from his azure eyes. He held his arm out for you before he opened the door. The booming music of the club entered your ears momentarily. There was also a long queue of people complaining outside the restroom. But you did not mind, not when your plans for the night and the future were clearing up.

~~~~~

Comments, ideas and words of notice are always appreciated 💜

Warren taglist: @thesecondlastjedi @fourmisfitz @shae-is-not-ok @simplyvictoria-93 @rockyroadthepastryarchy @hisatumb @samantha-is-fandom-trash @ziamhathrisen @silvver-rose @whatthefluffrichard @mcrmarvelloki

LMK if you want to be on/off the taglist 🙌

[action]

Aw, yeah. It’s another #BlackExcellence365 Artist Spotlight. We’re continuing our celebration of Black artists on Tumblr and how they use their medium to navigate conversation about identity. This week we bring you the gift of your new favorite Afrofuturist, Pea the Faery (@peathefeary ).

Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you came to be an artist. How has Tumblr been a place for you to find your voice?

I’m Pea, a digital artist and creator of things in general. I have been an artist since I was a child, but I have only taken myself seriously over the last two years. I have had a Tumblr for a long time, however, and I started using Tumblr as a place to find memes my friends hadn’t seen yet. Then I realized it was a place I could publicly love myself without judgment. I began to share my art on Tumblr because I am my art and I thought it would be cool for my mutuals to see more of who I am.

What communities do you identify with both online and IRL?

I am definitely an Afrofuturist and mystic. Anything involving fantasy holds my interest. I used to think that it was because I was an escapist, but really I believe there is more to this world than the mundane and I love to share that idea.

How did you come up with your featured piece and how might this relate to the broader conversation surrounding the #BlackExcellence365 campaign?

I am in awe of black women. I am so happy that I was able to incarnate into the body of one and I believe we hold deep magic in our blood. I try to express that feeling of magic and mysticism that comes with being a black woman. Because I don’t think a lot of us know that about ourselves. I grew up consuming a lot of fantasy and sci-fi media and I never saw black women involved. But I have always been in love with anything magical as long as I can remember. With this piece I wanted women and girls to see that they can be seen as fairies, pixies, witches, and elves. These archetypes are traditionally visually represented by white women (beautifully), but I wanted black women to see themselves the way I see them.

Your work encompasses powerful and inspirational women such as Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Janelle Monáe. How do they inspire you?

They are exactly that, powerful. They are women who see their worth and share their art unapologetically. Their self-expression is a gift to everyone and they are an inspiration to so many young people that I wanted to pay homage to them, thanking them for how they have publicly loved and accepted themselves. I truly believe that growth and spiritual expansion begins with the desire to love all parts of yourself and the more people willing to love themselves the better off the world is.

How did you come up with your current futuristic and magic artwork?

I was actually raised in a super religious Caribbean home and I wasn’t allowed to watch pretty much anything having to do with magic (I still haven’t read Harry Potter to this day. I’m sure I’ll get around to it). I was an extremely obedient child. However, the way I rebelled was with my secret obsession with anything involving mysticism or fantasy. I secretly read a lot of fantasy books. Some that, honestly, no kid my age at that time should’ve been reading, but it’s too late now. And some of the visuals just stayed in my head forever. I also have had quite a few mystical experiences and when I stepped away from religion I started to explore my love of magic and sci-fi again, mostly as a means of self-development. The more I expanded my view of what life really is to me, the more certain images, ideas, and colors would show up in my head to the point where I felt like I was going to lose my mind. The only way to get them out was to draw them. It is the only thing that calms me down sometimes. So basically ideas fill my head, I write them down, and draw them when I have the energy to and that’s pretty much it.

Feel inspired by Pea? Then be sure to follow her at @peathefeary ! Then head on over to your Tumblr and let your followers know what #BlackExcellence365 means to you. Don’t forget to tag it so it’s easily found by the community! 

[toast-connoisseur]

ALL of the Ask Me Stuff questions

* 1: Full name: For safety purposes I’ll shorten it: Maria Barbara Gonzalez (yes, that’s the shortened version. I’m Mexican lol)

* 2: Age: 25

* 3: 3 Fears: Being buried alive, anything bad happening to a loved one, SPIDERS

* 4: 3 things I love: My family, my friends, movies

* 5: 4 turn ons: soft touches, kissing, making me food, a confident personality

* 6: 4 turn offs: Overly cocky people, racists, chewing with your mouth open

* 7: My best friend: I’m lucky to have several and I love them all with the individual pieces of my heart they each own

* 8: Sexual orientation: Queer/Gay

* 9: My best first date: I don’t think I’ve ever really gone on one tbh lol

* 10: How tall am I: 5’1 (barely make it to the 1)

* 11: What do I miss: Bars/clubs and Disneyland. Hugging people. Not losing so many people on a daily basis...

* 12: What time was I born: 3:38AM

* 13: Favourite color: Blood red (NOT maroon)

* 14: Do I have a crush: I always crush on random girls

* 15: Favourite quote: “Seduce my mind and you can have my body. Find my soul and I’m yours forever.”

* 16: Favourite place: It was once Disneyland now, I don’t really have a place lol

* 17: Favourite food: All of it. Of course Mexican food takes the top of the list though

* 18: Do I use sarcasm: Noooo, you think?!

* 19: What am I listening to right now: I’m watching Buffy

* 20: First thing I notice in new person: What vibes you’re giving off

* 21: Shoe size: 7 for the most part but sometimes I can fit into size 4 kid shoes

* 22: Eye color: Dark brown

* 23: Hair color: naturally: dark brown, right now: black

* 24: Favourite style of clothing: comfortable but more on the lines of retro/rockabilly

* 25: Ever done a prank call? Yes!

* 27: Meaning behind my URL: I love toast

* 28: Favourite movie: I have so many but one is Saved!

* 29: Favourite song: Lots, but Guilty Pleasure by Cobra Starship

* 30: Favourite band: Avenged Sevenfold

* 31: How I feel right now: Mellow

* 32: Someone I love: my nephew

* 33: My current relationship status: single

* 34: My relationship with my parents: could be better, but it’s there

* 35: Favourite holiday: Halloween

* 36: Tattoos and piercing i have: I have two piercings on each ear, my bellybutton pierced, and 6 tattoos (R foot, R ankle, L thigh, L wrist, L bicep, R bicep)

* 37: Tattoos and piercing i want: I want most of my body covered in tattoos so I have a long way to go. As for piercings, I want at least two more per ear.

* 38: The reason I joined Tumblr: my friends said it would be a good time

* 39: Do I and my last ex hate each other? I wouldn’t say hate, but we’re not friends anymore

* 40: Do I ever get “good morning” or “good night ” texts? Yes!

* 41: Have I ever kissed the last person you texted? No

* 42: When did I last hold hands? It’s been too long :(

* 43: How long does it take me to get ready in the morning? I work from home now so 0 minutes

* 44: Have You shaved your legs in the past three days? Yes

* 45: Where am I right now? In my bed

* 46: If I were drunk and can’t stand, who’s taking care of me? My best friends

* 47: Do I like my music loud or at a reasonable level? Reasonable usually. I have very sensitive hearing.

* 48: Do I live with my Mom and Dad? They actually live with me, but it’s temporary.

* 49: Am I excited for anything? My upcoming move

* 50: Do I have someone of the opposite sex I can tell everything to? Yes, two actually

* 51: How often do I wear a fake smile? -I work Monday-Friday

* 52: When was the last time I hugged someone? -OOF

* 53: What if the last person I kissed was kissing someone else right in front of me? Hot

* 54: Is there anyone I trust even though I should not? -Everyone has different trust levels tbh. My best friends hold top tier.

* 55: What is something I disliked about today? I had to work

* 56: If I could meet anyone on this earth, who would it be? Beyoncé!

* 57: What do I think about most? The future I want

* 58: What’s my strangest talent? I honestly don’t think I have one? I guess being able to mimic certain voices/accents sometimes but I wouldn’t say I’m pro

* 59: Do I have any strange phobias? I don’t think they’re strange, I just hate feet

* 60: Do I prefer to be behind the camera or in front of it? Behind

* 61: What was the last lie I told? “I’ll work on that”

* 62: Do I perfer talking on the phone or video chatting online? It depends who I’m talking to, but phone tbh

* 63: Do I believe in ghosts? How about aliens? Both are very real

* 64: Do I believe in magic? Yes

* 65: Do I believe in luck? To an extent

* 66: What’s the weather like right now? Nice and cold

* 67: What was the last book I’ve read? I strictly read fanfiction lately

* 68: Do I like the smell of gasoline? Don’t love it, don’t hate it

* 69: Do I have any nicknames? Barbie, Barbs, whore, homo... you know, cute stuff

* 70: What was the worst injury I’ve ever had? I split my eyebrow open and had to get stitches

* 71: Do I spend money or save it? Por que no los dos?!

* 72: Can I touch my nose with a tounge? No, but my best friend can and it’s so cool!

* 73: Is there anything pink in 10 feets from me? My sweats are pink

* 74: Favourite animal? I love animals but wolves are pretty top tier

* 75: What was I doing last night at 12 AM? Sleeping

* 76: What do I think is Satan’s last name is? Sexy. Mr. Sexy.

* 77: What’s a song that always makes me happy when I hear it? -I Wanna Get Better by the Bleachers

* 78: How can you win my heart? Be nice to me and have good conversations to me and occasionally buy me chocolate

* 79: What would I want to be written on my tombstone? The entire lyrics to Act Up by City Girls

* 80: What is my favorite word? Motherfucker

* 81: My top 5 blogs on tumblr: I honestly bounce to and from so many. There’s no way I can only pick 5. All the ones I reblog from are so great!

* 82: If the whole world were listening to me right now, what would I say? STOP GOING TO PARTIES

* 83: Do I have any relatives in jail? Not that I’m aware of

* 84: I accidentally eat some radioactive vegetables. They were good, and what’s even cooler is that they endow me with the super-power of my choice! What is that power? I can turn invisible

* 85: What would be a question I’d be afraid to tell the truth on? None really tbh

* 86: What is my current desktop picture? I made it into a winter wonderland for the holidays

* 87: Had sex? “It’s been 84 years...”

* 88: Bought condoms? I’m gay

* 89: Gotten pregnant? See above

* 90: Failed a class? I think in middle school maybe?

* 91: Kissed a boy? Yes

* 92: Kissed a girl? Yes

* 93: Have I ever kissed somebody in the rain? Sadly, no

* 94: Had a job? Sadly (but also thankfully since I need money)

* 95: Left the house without my wallet? No

* 96: Bullied someone on the internet? No

* 97: Had sex in public? Yes

* 98: Played on a sports team? Yes

* 99: Smoked weed? Yes

* 100: Did drugs? Yes

* 101: Smoked cigarettes? Yes

* 102: Drank alcohol? Yes

* 103: Am I a vegetarian/vegan? No

* 104: Been overweight? No

* 105: Been underweight? Yes

* 106: Been to a wedding? Yes

* 107: Been on the computer for 5 hours straight? Yes

* 108: Watched TV for 5 hours straight? Yes

* 109: Been outside my home country? Yes

* 110: Gotten my heart broken? Sorta but I bounced back pretty quick so idk if that counts

* 111: Been to a professional sports game? Long ago

* 112: Broken a bone? No

* 113: Cut myself? I’m very accident prone

* 114: Been to prom? Yes

* 115: Been in airplane? Yes

* 116: Fly by helicopter? No

* 117: What concerts have I been to? So so so many. I miss them.

* 118: Had a crush on someone of the same sex? I’m gaaaaaaaay

* 119: Learned another language? I’ve been bilingual since I was a child

* 120: Wore make up? Yes

* 121: Lost my virginity before I was 18? No

* 122: Had oral sex? Yes

* 123: Dyed my hair? Yes

* 124: Voted in a presidential election? Yes

* 125: Rode in an ambulance? I worked for an ambulance company so just for fun

* 126: Had a surgery? Besides oral?

* 127: Met someone famous? I live in LA, so yes lol

* 128: Stalked someone on a social network? No

* 129: Peed outside? Yes

* 130: Been fishing? No, I’d like to!

* 131: Helped with charity? Yes

* 132: Been rejected by a crush? Fifth grade was a tough year for my love life...

* 133: Broken a mirror? No

* 134: What do I want for birthday? To be able to see all my friends in a safe environment

* 135: How many kids do I want and what will be their names? I’d like as many as I can comfortably afford. I’d have to discuss with the (future) wife about names

* 136: Was I named after anyone? The Virgin Mary (la Virgen Maria) and some Spanish actress named Barbara something...

* 137: Do I like my handwriting? No

* 138: What was my favourite toy as a child? I loved dolls

* 139: Favourite Tv Show? Bewitched

* 140: Where do I want to live when older? California forever unless properly convinced otherwise

* 141: Play any musical instrument? Used to play trumpet and alto sax. Can’t play anymore lol

* 142: One of my scars, how did I get it? See Q70

* 143: Favourite pizza toping? Pepperoni. I love all sorts of toppings but that’s my fav

* 144: Am I afraid of the dark? No

* 145: Am I afraid of heights? Yes

* 146: Have I ever got caught sneaking out or doing anything bad? Yes

* 147: Have I ever tried my hardest and then gotten disappointed in the end? Daily

* 148: What I’m really bad at: Focusing. In my defense, I have ADHD

* 149: What my greatest achievments are: graduating college, getting promoted at work, buying my own car, purchasing a home

* 150: The meanest thing somebody has ever said to me: I once got told “good luck on the short bus” by a guy that was upset I make more money than he does

* 151: What I’d do if I won in a lottery: take care of all my bills, invest, and then try to help as many of my loved ones as I could with theirs

* 152: What do I like about myself: my resilience

* 153: My closest Tumblr friend: @itssofragile

* 154: Something I fantasise about: My future

* 155: Any question you’d like? Nah, I think we’re good!