#blessings to you and your house stardom

[elitehoe]

#wewantmina is a revolution that won't be denied!!!!

[suiana]

(yandere! fan x gn! idol reader) (cw: murder, stalking, slight nsfw, yandere stuff)

Yoon-Jae likes to think of himself as your biggest fan.

He buys all your albums, attends all your fan-meets, hell, he even buys all your merch! He just wants to support his favourite idol after all.

You deserve it. Really.

He still remembers how you used to be laughed at by the other students for being a nerd.

You, his old high school classmate, the one he's always pined after even when you were a cute geeky nerd that got teased on a daily basis. Those were good times, he thinks. Before your rise to stardom and exposure to the rest of the world. When times were simpler and you were just someone he had a huge crush on because you were so his type. You two didn't even talk to one another but he had already decided that you were his crush. His first and only crush.

Yoon-Jae still finds it hard to believe that time has already passed by just like that. It's been a good couple of years since you two were in the same class, he still can't believe it. Cute, nerdy, and a little bit of a loser. Sure he knows he's popular and attractive, but opposites attract don't they?

He remembers it like yesterday, to when he first decided to act on his growing feelings for you.

It started out with small things. Following you around in public, being your own personal paparazzi. A little click here and there never hurt anyone. Not when you were so beautifully going about doing your things. His breath always hitches whenever he brings his camera up to his shaky blue eyes to snap another picture of you. The perfect you.

It was like you were made for the spotlight. Made for the cameras. I mean, how could you not be? You're perfect. Everything about you is like a blessing from the god's above. Your smiles, your laughter, the way your face would flush a little from laughing too much... Everything about you needed to be framed in a mueseum. Truly a work of art.

Click, Click, Click.

His camera fired away at everything you did. Even the most mundane of things. The tall Korean man estimates he probably had taken about 5000 pictures of you on a day to day basis back when you both were still students. If you ask his present self how many pictures he takes on a daily basis now it would probably be 2 or 3 times more than what he used to take.

In any case, he finds it a little cute how you were completely oblivious to his photo-taking. How you went around your day-to-day life while remaining blissfully unaware of the photos he shot of you.

Then things got a bit worse.

He thought it wasn't enough to just follow you around outside. No, he needed a glimpse into your private life, the one you kept behind closed doors. Yoon-Jae thought it would help him learn more about you.

And it did. It helped him to learn more about your character. About the person that hid behind a pair of thick round glasses and a nervous stutter when around others in class. The person he saw through a rose-eyed lens.

It was as though he got a glimpse into your soul.

So of course he had to continue breaking into your house to see you in your private space. Of course he had to install cameras in your room to observe how you acted when no one else was around. Of course he had to watch you 24/7. Of course he had to.

It was cute seeing you dance and sing around like some famous idol. Your voice was always so soothing that he'd fall asleep while watching you. This was something he never thought the cute little nerd in his class would enjoy doing. But if it makes you happy he'll be more than happy to support it. You were already an idol in his eyes anyway. It's even better if you wanted to act like a real one.

To be honest, he had secretly hoped you'd notice him. He finds it arousing to say the least. To be caught doing such an intimate thing with his beloved muse... It sends his heart racing, sweat rolling down the sides of his pale forehead as his member strains painfully against his sweatpants.

But you never did and he can't tell whether it's a blessing or a curse that you were so oblivious. No matter, the dark haired man can wait. He's always been patient after all. It's something his mom praised him for since he was young.

The more he learned about you, the more Yoon-Jae couldn't help but be a little peeved that you were still being bullied. He couldn't understand why such a sweet thing like yourself would get teased and called names for liking things so passionately. It's cute. So very adoravle. And he absolutely hated it that others would make fun of you for it. He hated it.

So he decided to get rid of them. What is the point of their lives if they couldn't appreciate the perfection that you are? They are the scum of the earth. Vermin who didn't deserve to live.

His usually neat and tidy appearance was a mess by the time he was done getting rid of the first person. He still regrets wear his favourite white shirt to get rid of all these pests. Their filth got all over him after all, blood and tears staining his pristine clothes.

Yoon-Jae remembers his mother horrified expression as she immediately clutched his arms, asking if he was hurt. He had to repeatedly reassure her that he was fine and just doing it for you. Her face immediately relaxed after that.

"You found your other half then? Are they like your father?"

"Mom it's not-"

"You should bring them back soon. I want to meet my son's beloved! I've been waiting for this day for so long!"

The Korean guy was so confused by his mother's words. Love? He never saw what he was doing as love. He thought it was just... doing what he should do. You're perfect so he should devote himself to you. That's how things are, no?

He started questioning himself after that. Did he... love you? Really? I mean, yeah, he did have a crush but it couldn't be love, could it? Love is a really strong word... He thinks he's just giving you the attention and affection you deserve.

In the midst of getting rid of his final victim, he decided to spill his heart out to them.

"I just... I don't know whether I really love them, you know? Like... I'm doing all this but... It's more like, I want them to be safe and protected from all the bad people. And yeah, maybe I wanna get with them too but that's not very important, is it?"

"U-uh..."

His soft black locks stick to his sweaty forehead, his chest heaving slightly as he continues talking about his feelings to the half dead person. Maybe they'll give him some enlightenment? I mean, they decided to harm you... They should at least give him some advice, no?

"Hey, what do you think? Since you decided to make fun of them you probably know right?"

"I-I don't know-"

"What was that?"

"I meant you probably love them! P-Please don't kill me!"

And just like that, it was like a switch was flipped in his brain.

He made quick work of the person... Well, at least they were useful in the end. He supposes they're not totally good for nothing.

Yoon-Jae decides to confess to you the next day. He brings in flowers and sprays his special cologne. He's positive that you'll reject him today, but he doesn't care. He'll just continue to confess until you finally give in and love him back. You're bound to fall for him one day or another.

Sadly, his luck completely failed him that day and you weren't anywhere in sight. At all.

He spent the whole day asking about your whereabouts, fretting over your well-being as his minds spirals into a states of paranoia. Were you kidnapped? Did someone hurt you? Sick? Where the hell were you?!

And that's when he heard it. You got scouted by an entertainment company and moved to a school closer to your agency.

An idol. You were going to become an idol.

It was as though his heart had stopped and his whole world was flipped upside down. Oh.

Oh.

The realization that you were actually going to stand on a grand stage with hundreds of thousands of eyes on you finally settled in and his heart couldn't help but swell with pride. His idol, his beloved idol. The one he loved and would protect to death. Yoon-Jae couldn't help but feel satisfied knowing that some person finally realized your potential. Took them long enough, he mumbles while walking back home with the bouquet of flowers.

Was he sad that he couldn't confess to you? Sure, yeah he was. He's not going to deny it or lie. It really fucking hurt when you weren't there to witness his confession. But the fact that you had actually gone to become an idol... That made everything all better.

He'd finally be able to worship and love you like you were meant to be worshipped. An idol. His idol. He'd be able to prattle and gush about you without receiving any weird looks. Everyone else will be doing the same thing anyway. They can't and won't be able to judge him. In fact, they'd be understanding of why he's so obsessive over you. You're perfect, he repeats. Such perfection is worth losing his mind over. He's sure everyone would agree.

He can't help but grin in excitement as he anticipates your debut. A cute concept? A sexy concept? Both? He thinks that you'd suit everything.

When you finally debuted he feels like he could die at that second. You, in all your glory, was standing in the middle of a stage. A soloist. The sole star of the show. He's glad your agency hadn't put you in a group. He'd feel bad for your other members, already knowing that you'd outshine them all. It's not even up for debate.

It's no surprise that Yoon-Jae's the first to buy all your merchandise. The first one to book tickets to all your shows and fan meets. He's in the front row screaming your name with his heart, blue eyes all wide and cheeks flushed as he publicly displays his devotion for you.

You don't notice him at first, but as time goes by and he continues to support you, he's become a familiar face amongst your ever growing crowd. Yoon-Jae. You hadn't realized that the popular guy in your old class had liked your music so earnestly. Maybe it was a safe haven from the horrible deaths back in your old school. You believed your music to be comforting after all.

His slender hands intertwine with yours as he appears at your fan meet for the nth time. He comes bearing more gifts than before, way too excited to chat to you one-on-one again.

"Darling, darling! You look amazing like usual! I bought this expensive cartier necklace for you today. Do you want me to put it on for you?"

"Haha, of course. You're my sweetest fan! Come put it on for me?"

The lines between idol and fan slowly start to blur to him. Yoon-Jae thinks that you truly mean what you say whereas you were just doing what an idol does. Fan-service.

But Yoon-Jae doesn't care about that. Why would he? You're his other half. He even got his mother to watch your content with him. She says she's eager to meet her son's future spouse. His father is a little bit more reserved, always hiding in his room and reading quietly, not wanting to talk to him. Whatever, he'll meet you one on one when the time comes. And you'll be his when the time comes. Though he loves you as an idol, he loves you as his lover more. The tall black haired guy is already counting down the days to when your contract ends.

For now, he'll continue supporting you as your biggest fan. He always will be your biggest fan even after your career too. You're an idol in his eyes through and through and nothing will change that.

Nothing will ever change that.

[astrogre]

Venus Conjunct Mars in each Sign

I noticed that Cancer Venus conjunct Mars are LOVED and protected by so many, like the people in their life see them as someone who must be protected at all costs because they’re so “precious”. The people around them may behave as if they’re bodyguards to this native, if any harm were to occur around them they’d rush to protect them like a little sister/brother. Usually these people have a good reputation of being sweet in their personal circles and individually are deemed acceptable by society. Honestly this placement gives princess treatment from the people in your life, especially those under the themes of the house it’s in.

E.g Zendaya, Keanu Reeves

I think in general Venus conj Mars can bring an influx of opposing blessings of the themes of the sign its in, it can show where you have a high concentration of passionate appreciate/admiration. Like I said with cancer, it makes native highly protected (Marian trait of cancer), and cared for (Venusian trait of cancer). This was originally supposed to be an Astro observation but I wanted to talk about this more.

Aries Mars conjunct Venus makes those around them feel inspired and intimidated of the native, also noticed that they’re dominators of their fields and that’s usually where that sense of intimidation/fear others have for them come from. Despite this those around them know that they can’t outdo the native. You guys are like a monopoly company, you already have all the shares. People may get up in the morning in your name so that they can one day be on the same battlefield as you. It’s not that people want to outdo you but it’s more is that people know you’re so accomplished that they want to compete at the same level. You are respected for the way you don’t back down, you are loved for your drive and the way you stand up for the people you love most, you can also be defended by people a lot, like having die hard fans or people who get very angry of someone speaks ill of you.

E.g Christiano Ronaldo, Queen Victoria (yes the one responsible for British empires colonialism), Napoleon III, Lupita Nyong’o.

Taurus Venus conj Mars makes those around the native feel good about themselves like the Taurus native is a trophy wife in a way, dreamy boyfriend- if you remember Chad Dylan cooper from Sonny with a chance more like that. A heartthrob, they can be seen as the ideal person to be with like the diamond of the season in Bridgerton terms. To be around them not only feels good but is also a status symbol, a bragging right. You feel spoiled to be around them. They treat those around them good, they’re the kind to pay for the entire tables food and say “it’s on me tonight, it is my pleasure”. These people are also very much well looked after by those around them because of this placement, others feel like they just deserve it, but these natives are also VERY stubborn when it comes to achieving or owning something (Taurus rules 2H) to the point they don’t back down.

E.g Kanye West, Adolf Hitler, Charlie Chaplin, Jessica Alba

Gemini Venus conj Mars causes those around the native to feel giddy, excited, like they have a high school crush on the native and are wiling to escape anywhere with them on command, people feel like they are being energised around you but also a sense of conflict around you too, it’s as if the people around the native views the native as overwhelming at times. People may view you as fun and always full of good ideas but also after a while it just gets too much for them since there is a lot of energy here. You’re always talked about because of how comical you are but also people can poke fun at you through humour memes or something like that if mars is aspecting negatively to other planets. You’re able to attract anyone with this placement but just don’t be surprised for people to turn their backs on you after that high is over for them. Honestly I have seen this placement manifest as an influx of stardom and connections all for those same connections to just say “meh” when asked about their opinion of the native overtime. Despite all this they ALWAYS remain popular.

Eg. Wendy Williams, Charli D’Amelio, Naomi Campbell, Mike Tyson, Dwayne Johnson, Boris Johnson

Leo Venus conj Mars is celebrated and uplifted, people around the native encourage and celebrate them, they’re glorified for the bare minimum, everything they do just seems like it is crafted to perfection by the gods and they’re treated like celebrities, royalty, like they’re better than everyone else,like the teachers favourite class pet, they can also make those around them feel like they want to be the top dog and take their position, that’s why because of this they can have many impersonators since people want to take their fame and glory but they can’t do it like you because you create,not copy. They want to be praised and put on a pedestal like these natives. You guys are seen as the blueprint, main characters or whatever you want to call it. People around you just think you have it good and want a slice.

E.g Amy Winehouse, Playboi Carti, Riley Reid, Monica Bellucci, Daniel Radcliffe, Donald Glover, Emily Ratajkowski

Virgo Venus conj Mars are likely to receive support too but a different kind, more like mentors, teachers. I think these people get tough love, if they put in the bare minimum they won’t get away without being hounded for it. People around these natives always want to help them and give constructive criticism so they can become better, people see them to be competent, they may also be perceived as a modest, the people around them may treat them with respect with politeness, honestly the way a butler would behave to its child client is how these natives are treated. Alfred Batmans Butler comes to mind when I think of how they’re treated and how they’re seen by others. People can go into specifics about what makes you flawed or beautiful by dissecting your behavior. Yet at the same time people want to aid you because they see potential in you. It’s like being the child prodigy in a 1990s Karate movie

E.g. Austin Butler, Blake Lively, Bruno Mars, Amber Rose, Joe Jonas, Wiz Khalifa

Libra Venus conj Mars are romanticised but not in a dreamy way but in a “trendy” manner, think of Libra being a ruler over Venus and the detriment to Mars already makes the native treated by others in a way that perhaps they’re not taken seriously, they may be undermined just down to their looks or physical appeal but they’re given compliments, treated like a delicacy like chocolate. You’re the treat. And with this placement you can embrace it. They have an undeniable appeal to them but it’s so soft no matter how big, how tall, how unattractive, how masculine they are, they always have this softness to them that makes them liked by their peers. People might even treat these natives like they’re dating them or something. They are highly sought after in terms of relationships due to their charm and romantic aura. For some reason those around the native may feel that their energy screams girlfriend/boyfriend material.

E.g Freddie Mercury, Kobe Bryant, Adam Driver, Future

Scorpio Venus conj Mars have this intense intimidating but sultry air to them. They’re treated like the way a dog treats its owner with treats. People may submit to them and do what they want in order to get something out of them and also because they know if they don’t there may be consequences. They can make people feel uncomfortable because of their intensity, almost as if they’re being seen through. People can also feel uncomfortable with the energy these natives surround themselves with because everything is so intimidating. Venus is already in detriment and it’s conjunct the Scorpio Mars… it makes every interaction with you feel like a battle or a reminder of some power dynamic at play. Natives can have strange company around them or they themselves ARE the strange company, usually their love interests are villains or are seen as victims of the natives, it’s very much a people either love you or hate you but regardless of what it is they all share the information they have about you together, hence why these natives can amass dedicated stalkers. Venus is in detriment here so these people aren’t treated very “soft”, others can actually be unnecessarily harsh on them in circumstances where they deserve to be treated better- like scowling at the native when they offer a hand because of underlying hidden resentment towards them. they don’t need to say anything in a room but it just feels intense because of them. Others may go into extensive psychological analysis, digging things up from the past, or trying to track this natives movements, where they are, what they’re doing, who they’re with, how they met, their relationship history. There may be more darker levels of adoration for these people like obsession, lust and envy, even a lack of compassion. They’ve probably been stalked or harassed once in their life. And everyone’s justification for treating them this way is because of the way they look or act

E.g. Leonardo Di Caprio, Finn Wolfhard, Joe Biden, Greta Thunberg, Sydney sweeny, Bruce Lee, Joaquin Phoenix, Jimin

Sagi Venus conj Mars are treated like a compass on the ocean, you guys are the good luck, people think you have such interesting philosophy and may also treat you like you are the wise one. Like the way a child asks a question to a magician expecting them to pull an answer out of their ass, you guys have an expectancy to bewilder others. Treated with openness, like anything you do is a whatever thing, people don’t expect conformity from you. You guys are admired for the straightforwardness you have in your life. People allow you to be you. These natives are the risk takers they’ll just be like “fuck it!@“ and do something like jump in a pool. People treat you with honesty, they just tell you what they think of you and your behaviour sometimes giving unwarranted advice to you. In general others may think you’re a little silly as well as if you don’t take life seriously for what it is. You’re perceived as funny, a great time to be around the party person but when people don’t like you they attack you for being so easygoing, it’s like they see you as someone who just doesn’t care enough when in reality you’re so gleeful towards life because as they say; “if you don’t laugh you’ll cry”

Eg Bella Thorne, Kendall Jenner, Hayao Miyazaki

Capricorn Venus conj Mars are treated like the owners of the place. Think of the eldest sibling, the first grandchild, the first one who graduated in the entire lineage. They are treated like THE standard, the blueprint, used as an example of what “to be”, the one in charge, the one you have to convince. People look up to them not in admiration or desire, but in respect and authority. Others treat this native with practicality and formal courtesy, they won’t use slang around this person but may even address them with honorifics that explain their status. They’re like the blue tick on social media, they are the establishment. Those around them may also be conservative because of their nature. People don’t want to say anything stupid around you because they know it can affect their status and your response would make them feel foolish too. The people around you may treat you like they’re a contestant on dragons den and you are the investor judge. People might even stammer because of you, they really don’t want to embarrass themselves. But at the same time others have no mercy for your mistakes. If you mess up, everyone will hold you accountable.

E.g. Walt Disney, Brad Pitt, Jim Carrey, The weeknd, bjork, Neymar, Mads Mikkelsen, Prince Andrew, Avan Jogia

Aquarius Venus conj Mars people around them act like fans, followers. People always want to know your next ideas they could read, listen or watch whatever it is you’re doing because it’s so unique to them. Others are fascinated by your ideas and intellect. Honestly I’d even say that’s how you can get someone in bed that’s your magic charm. People also just feel like they have been friends with you for a while even if they just met because your humanitarian spirit comes through. MANY have a friend crush on you (really want to be your friend). People with this placement also are very independent thinkers, they don’t base their ideas on standard but rather on their own unique perspective. You can make others see things they hadn’t noticed there before. You bring what is under the ground to the table. Imagine a prehistoric man bringing home the tribe cow milk after playing with its udders and showing how them how it can be a source of calcium. You guys have strange solutions and you do it for the sake of others.

E.g Hozier, Harry Styles, Zoella- Zoe Sugg

Pisces Venus conj Mars you guys are the dreamy ones people idealise you so much like oh “______?? They could never do no wrong” people are very sensitive and compassionate towards you and those around you love your creativity, how you’re able to just bring something poetic and meaningful to this world. You’re the person a stranger would start crying and pouring out to on a bench next to a park at 7am due to the perceived empathic presence you have. Those around you may always feel safe around you and they can trust you, natives with this placement gain mass trust by those who are vulnerable and they too can be vulnerable themselves. There is strength in their weakness, their ability to appear so tender can allow them to be non-judgmental and have power over others because they are not being opened up to. They show people the strength in playing small. You make people wooed by your kindness and care for others, no matter how disingenuous it may be.

E.g. Heath Ledger, Vincent Van Gogh, Jeffrey Epstein 💀, J.Cole, Machine Gun Kelly, Lewis Hamilton, Mac DeMarco

[themotherofhorses]

figures dancing gracefully (across my memory)

— simon "ghost" riley x oc!silentdove reyes.

setting: call of duty x marvel cinematic universe

summary: she’s much too damn young to be handling all of this trauma, this . . . baggage. everyone says that when they first meet her; nevertheless, Dove persists.

warnings: explicit language and mentions of previously experienced abuse (per the Red Room theme).

note: in conjunction with this specific post. the RedBack has been a personal OC WIP of mine for maybe four(ish) years. despite being an obvious OC-insert series, everyone is welcome to enjoy it.

It is snowing again. For the fifth night in a row. 

SilentDove tells herself that is why she cannot—for the ever life of her—find the comfort of sleep tonight; instead, she opts for a nice hot drink on the couch. Mint hot chocolate, to be exact, topped with four puffy white marshmallows. It tastes especially good with that particular combination. Natasha picked up a new packet of them the last time she went grocery shopping, saying something along the lines of how ‘every safe house needs to be well-stocked with good snacks!’

The black cat mug is cute too.

The truth is she cannot sleep — no matter how hard she tries, how absolutely fucking desperate she feels, or how many of those tiny blue melatonin pills she pops in her mouth. Nothing helps. God, it fucking sucks. 

Whenever she closes her eyes, the memory resurfaces. Empty, sometimes blurry, fuzzy, loud, absolutely unbearable, but at most times very specific childhood memories. 

Ballet. 

Schooling. 

Harsh, overwhelming, hardhearted training — the sort where you snap a poor sister’s neck within the first few hours of the morning before sinking to your feet to tend to an (almost) fractured ankle in the evening, swollen and bruised and agonizing to step on. Or sit at a school desk, dressed in a freshly-steamed schoolgirl uniform, forced to recite some classic Disney movie word-for-word….or until you are told to stop. 

(It is hell on Earth, hidden in Russia.) 

“Again.” 

She can still hear the coach, voice tinny, instructing them to repeat the dance. Again. Again. Again. That is perhaps one of the worst memories, in her opinion. Somewhere in the middle, or maybe towards the end, a dancer messed up and he noticed. That is not good, child, nor it is allowed to happen. Seated on the pretty polished floors are the baby spiders —the маленькие пауoки—watching every detail with big and hungry eyes.

No, the маленькие пауoки must never be introduced to such sloppiness, not at this age.

The Bolshoi Theatre demands only the finest ballerinas — girls that are light on their toes, beautiful in their face, with potential for stardom.

Dove takes another sip of her hot chocolate while remembering . . . remembering . . . remembering . . . dancing, dancing, dancing, again and again; all while ignoring the terrible ache burning through her poor feet, flaring up near the bone of her big toe before shooting up to her ankle, and the large soldier fixated near the door. 

(The thing about the soldier was that he never made a sound. Precise strikes, fatal slashes, heavy exhalation through his ebony mask he always wore, but never a sound from his mouth . . . if he even had one.)

From where she is hunkered down in her father’s ranchhouse, propped up against comfy pillows, she flattens both legs before gazing down at her feet. A beat. Then she curls her toes before wiggling them. Her nose scrunches. They’re horribly disfigured and knobby — and ugly if she is honest with herself. 

Bless her soul, Natasha had given her some of that fancy, high-tech medical cream (courtesy of Dr. Helen Cho); a week later, her toes are slowly beginning to appear better. Or, maybe, just normal, like how a young woman’s foot is supposed to look.

Her toenails are painted a soft white, much like the snow blanketing the Montanan plains; it makes her smile a little (she once heard that the color “white” represents a mix of purity, cleanliness, and freshness. Rebirth, the fourth word might’ve been. Well, that and the nail polish was displayed too prettily at the store to overlook, discounted too, and never before had she the privilege of painting her nails).

Dove wiggles her big toe again; beneath it, along the stretch of her right foot, is a long stripe of scar tissue. As much as she dreams, it will never fade away, regardless of the scrubbing in the shower or pretending it does not exist or using those fancy Stark creams.

One of the many scars from the Red Room.

She’s much too damn young to be handling all of this trauma, this . . . baggage. Everyone says that when they first meet her; nevertheless, Dove persists. Natasha knows that certain feeling all too well, and Yelena too. They are in the same busted-up boat, drifting down the same river.

However, the therapy sessions they both suggested are good — incredible, even; they allow her to voice her most inner and brutal thoughts while patching together bits and pieces of a long-forgotten identity. She was a ballerina, Dove tells herself; she had to have been one — there was the Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and A Midsummer’s Night Dreams. 

Her pointe shoes were a pretty pastel blue, the sort of color belonging to the summertime sky, while her favorite leotard was a deep navy. Natasha wore the same during her time there, she thinks. And Yelena, too. Maybe even their mother, Melina.

(Melina cycled through the Red Room four times — Dove couldn’t even imagine how that could’ve felt.) 

The two women are her family. 

Family. Such a . . . distant concept to Dove. She glances down at her feet again, sighing. Sometimes . . . Dove slips up and calls Natasha “momma” . . . and sometimes . . . Natasha will call her “my sweet маленький пауoк” in return; she’ll then remind her that she’s not alone. Not anymore. It is okay to weep…to scream and shout, and to come to her if need be.

Silence is no longer necessary.

Is it, though? Dove was born silent. At times, that is all she is capable of feeling. 

But, alas, it still makes Dove feel a bit better, even if the conversations consist of recycled words. She is not alone, not anymore. There is no more slipping stale bread for breakfast, no more being handcuffed to the bed, and no more being disciplined for sneezing a little too loudly.

No more being considered a weapon with a face — capable of nothing more but murder. Natasha is her family now, and maybe even Clint Barton and Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson too. 

Her hot chocolate is cold now — the marshmallows look kinda weird now, too, like drowned little white bodies, nothing like how they appear in those silly Hollywood movies. But drinking it makes her feel happier, a lot lighter, sleepier, and safer. Sometimes, Dove wonders if a different childhood may have had more steaming mugs of hot chocolate with all those different flavors Yelena once told her about.

(She had seen them in some grocery store in Manchester, England — an entire aisle jam-packed with hundreds of colorful flavors. It smelled good, too, Yelena had said.)

Melina claims she did not have a childhood.

Oh, but she did. 

It was sitting before computers, watching Russian propaganda before sipping on a random juice box (grape-flavored most of the time). It was hours upon hours of constant ballet practice, perfecting all those turns and leaps. It was standing before human-shaped shooting targets, a red hourglass centered in the middle where the human lungs exist.

It was the massive soldier in the backroom—the one with the two long, dark braids—teaching the widows how to place their victims in a tight headlock before demonstrating the move on them, snapping their tiny, skinny necks in one quick motion. Or how to silence a person with a blow to the kidney.

“Hey.”

“Hi, Nattie.”

“How are you feeling tonight?”

“Fine, I guess.”

“. . . Nightmares?”

Dove pauses. “Nah. It’s snowing over here; there is something therapeutic about watching it and—”

Natasha cuts her off. “Doesn’t work on me, kid. You should know that,” and there is a beat of silence, and Dove can already see the sad smile tugging at her lips, “—so, was it nightmares again?” 

“No. Not this time. Memories…of Dreykov, y’know, and the ballet and—” she takes a small sip of her cold drink, “—and just anything I can remember, really.  Sometimes, it is gun practice, something it’s combat. I’m getting better, actually, thanks to Bruce and Helen. It’s still kind of hazy, but now I can make out things. People. Places. Objects. Y’know, all that shit. I just can’t sleep because of it.” She places the phone on the coffee table before leaning back and inhaling deeply. “M’fine, Nat, really. Y’know, it is all part of the recovery process.”

"Yeah. No, yeah, I get it. But hey, just remember, I'm here. I know you have your therapy sessions, and I know it helps to some degree, but all that shit? I know it firsthand. Everything you've been through, Yelena and I have too, so you're not alone. Not in this lifetime anymore.” 

She smiles. It is times like this that SilentDove hates when she took assignments that sent her on the other side of the world. “Thanks. How’s it over there?” 

“Boring. Humid as fuck, and Clint is such a loud snorer. Hey, make sure all the doors are locked before you go to bed.”

Like clockwork, of course. 

“I will. Talk to you tomorrow?”

“Sure, kid. Get some rest. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.”

The call soon cuts after that, and Dove is left to her thoughts again. Her dark eyes drift across the living room, studying every little detail before her — from her grandmother's star blanket to the pretty picture of her mother hung above the fireplace.

She hums. There are ghosts in this house.

Ghosts.

Her own ghosts.

Oddly enough, that thought doesn't bother Dove at all. She’s always liked the idea of ghosts.

[catmansquad]

The Thirst

Vampire Miguel AU? Why not. I will inevitably add this as a proper chapter in The Looking Glass, but this is the X Reader version. Typing on mobile is hard...

Earth 9962 (Iteration: 300)

The Unorthodox, London, 2022

The club had once been an old church, now it served another order of service altogether; aglow in vibrant neons, heaving with the pulse of music and life. Dancers lost in the beat on the shining floor, couples lost in each other on plush sofas on the upper levels and at least one or two strangers passed out in each other's arms somewhere in the shadows.

'The regular tonight, Mike?' The bartender spoke up to be heard over the pounding beat of the music, addressing the figure seated before him; Slicked dark hair, brown eyes, always mumbled when he spoke, always with a strange hunger about him, yet the guy couldn't be lacking in cash, for the pricy clothes he always strutted up in.

'Yeah, just the usual...' He took the crinkled note that was slid across the counter in response and replaced it with the strongest whiskey the house could offer. The whiskey would not soothe the ache in him, Miguel knew that, but this scene served two purposes: the first reminded him of what it meant to be human, to do things mortals did- like breathing, and drinking. For certain he could still eat and drink, hell he could even still get drunk if enough of a vast quantity passed his lips, but these were just simple pleasures, nothing would truly sate him. Then came the second reason; the club itself, the heaving bodies, the pulse of life. He could hear the heartbeats over the music, practically smell the liquor laced blood thundering through excited veins. He glimpsed at his watch, marking the time and raised the glass in a silent toast before taking a hefty sip. Here was to five-hundred years. Five hundred years since that night in old Mexica where his life had been stolen and his death denied.

It had been a long journey, of tragedies and wars, and loss. Eventually he had grown numb to it all, mortals did as they did, and eventually they slipped away and the next generation made the same mistakes. He had made mistakes, too. A frantic and young Fledgling who assumed he ruled and had quickly learned humility, of failed romances, of the fleeting fatherhood stolen by plague, of so many broken hearts. Even an Elder felt that kind of pain still. It was a blessing and a curse both, to be untouched by time, disease and death.

'What a nice surprise...' The scent of sweet perfume, the ghost of a hand across his shoulder, the beautiful vision in silken crimson cooed by his ear, her free hand clutching her bag tight.

'Another sweet night, my darling...?' Her voice was soft as silk in his ear, he merely took another sip from his glass, placing it back on the counter. If only the sheep knew there were now two wolves prowling incognito among them.

'Entertain yourself elsewhere, Christina, I am not in the mood for your games.' His response was curt, uncaring. Her charms would not work on him. Christina's smile was unfaltering, her icy blue eyes found his own inevitably. Once she had been a model, an actress of considerable skill, destined for stardom. Now she was barely half a century into her darker existence and had adapted far better than most. Miguel did not know who had Turned her, but the rare few who shared these streets with him knew one thing; this was his city, first and foremost.

'Aww, always a pleasure, sweetheart..' She purred with a playful wink, heels clicking on the floor as she weaved between the crowds, effortlessly drawing longing stares from man and woman alike, someone would find themselves going home with her tonight. Miguel shouldn't have looked, should have returned to his drink, but his eyes lingered as the crowds parted briefly, that was when he saw you.

High on life and booze, you had found yourself on the dancefloor, limbs twirling, uncaring for anything else as you and a friend lost all awareness for the outside world. It was only when the beautiful woman in red passed did you briefly falter, like the mere sight of her had hooked something into your skull. Then she passed by and the spell broke.

'You've got an admirer!' Your friend called out over the deafening thrum, and repeated themselves louder still as you held up a hand to your ear. You followed their pointing across the room to the bar; the tall, broad man sat half in shadow as if the light refused to cling to him, the feeling of hungry eyes upon you. Perhaps you'd get lucky tonight after all...

Miguel had drained the glass, uncaring for its burn down his throat and plotted his next move with patience. He could be very, very patient. You were aware of him, and he of you. He was content to wait, to see if you would make the next move. It would be so easy for him, just a touch of vampiric charm, a slight crook of a finger to beckon and you would be in his lap in moments, mind wrapped around his little finger. No. That would be far too easy.

He felt the atmosphere shift, something inside him bristled at the new presence; full of swagger, a young man had entered the club, dressed for a night out, for someone who desperately wanted attention. The eyes of every mortal on him, finding him irresistible. All Miguel saw was a troublesome Fledgling who needed to be put in their place.

He smothered the Fledgeling's charm with a strong arm across his shoulder, steering him away from the dancefloor- away from you, no sooner did they find a relatively quiet spot, did the troublesome new one find himself slammed against the wall with a hand at his throat.

'There are now three of us here. That is too much trouble to keep quiet. I also do not appreciate you so brazenly strutting in like a preening rooster, there is an art in charm and seduction that you wield with all the grace of a sledgehammer.'

The Fledgeling hissed at him, fangs bared, trying to amp up his intimidation through vampiric willpower. It was almost cute. Still easily keeping him pinned, Miguel stepped closer and returned the favour, fangs bared in a snarl, eyes ablaze crimson, letting the newly Turned vampire feel the full weight of an Elder's presence. He briefly relished the fear that followed realisation in those eyes, watched how he tried to shrink into himself, knees trembling.

'I'm sorry! I'm sorry! Sorry, sorry..!' His blubbering was an inelegant as his charms had been.

'Get. Out. Do not make me regret what mercy I show you now...' He kept his voice low, but those sensitive ears would pick it up all the same. Miguel could just as easily break a man's mind as his body. Satisfied that the message had been received, he released his crushing grip, and watched the terrified Fledgeling hurry to the exit, sparing horrified glances over his shoulder. He blinked, eyes losing their furious crimson lustre as he scoured the crowds once more, ensuring you were still there.

'So many hot people here tonight, god!' Your friend called out, but you did not look, barely paying attention, eyes firmly on the man who regarded you still; tall, broad, stylish, and looking right back at you. When did it get so hot in here? He took his hands from his coat pockets, glancing at his watch before giving you a charming smile and beckoning softly with one curled finger.

You would come to him, he had almost grown fond of you. He would look after you, keep you safe from the hungry Fledgelings. Tonight, you knew you had gotten lucky. Little did you know you would feel the bliss of his aching kiss.

Part 2

[misshoneyimhome]

Better In Time I Frederik Andersen

[Prologue]

Summary: You and Frederik have a deep connection that dates back to your early childhood, having been best friends since you were just three years old. However, on Freddie's 18th birthday, a personal conversation sparks a shift in your relationship, taking it to a level that goes beyond just friendship.

Tropes & warnings: Frederik Andersen x reader, friendship, best friend!Freddie, talk about losing your virginity

Word count: 2.3K

➼｡ﾟ

October 2007

It was just another ordinary Tuesday evening when you found yourself at the Andersens' house for Frederik’s 18th birthday family dinner. The warm, inviting scent of home-cooked food filled the air as you walked into the familiar home with your dad - a place that felt almost like a second home, as you’d spent countless hours there over the years, growing up alongside Frederik Andersen.

_

Your connected stories began long before you were born, when your dads, childhood friends, played for the local Herning Blue Fox hockey team, where they shared dreams of hockey stardom and a bond forged on the ice and in the locker rooms, their friendship only growing stronger over time.

However, when your dad was just 20 years old, his life took a turn, when he got an amazing chance to pursue a hockey career overseas in Ontario, Canada. Playing for the London Knights, his career took off, and for a while, everything seemed so perfect. But fate had other plans, and a serious knee injury abruptly ended his dreams, just before any chances for the bigger leagues, making him reconsider his future. And instead of returning home to Denmark, he decided to settle down in London Ontario, married your mum, and a few years later, you and your twin brother, Tom, were born.

Yet, misfortunes never come alone, and tragedy struck your family when you were just three years old - your mother sadly died in a car accident, leaving a huge void in your lives. And in the wake of this devastating loss, your father decided to return to his roots, seeking comfort and support in his hometown. So, your now smaller family moved into a house just a few doors down from the Andersens, bringing a sense of familiarity and reassurance during a difficult time.

And Ernst and Charlotte Andersen were a real blessing during this period. Ernst, with his connections and steadfast support, helped your father get a job at the local sports club, bringing some stability to his professional life. Meanwhile Charlotte, with her caring nature and endless compassion, stepped in to offer love and support. She often helped out with you and Tom when your father had to work late, providing a comforting presence and a helping hand. In short, their kindness was beyond measure.

This was probably why you and Frederik had become so close over the years. Despite the three-year age gap, you spent nearly every day together, and your bond was hard to put into words. It might have been due to your shared love for hockey, a passion you both inherited from your fathers and indulged in at the rink. You would spend hours there with your dad and his friends, like Ernst, bonding over the sport. Meanwhile, Tom, who had a deeper passion for football, attended a sports boarding school on the other side of the country, leaving you alone with your dad for the rest of the school year.

_

Still, you didn’t mind at all. Frederik was your closest friend, and sitting next to him during the meal that night felt completely natural. You cherished these moments, especially now as Frederik was about to step into adulthood and start his promising hockey career as a highly skilled goaltender. And as his best friend, you were beyond proud of him and excited about what the future held for him.

As the meal finally came to an end, Frederik turned to you with a cheeky grin on his fair, red-haired face. “Finished?” he asked. You nodded with a smile. His younger siblings, Sebastian and Amalie, had already headed to their rooms, and the youngest Andersen, Valdemar, was snuggled up in his mum’s lap. “Wanna get out of here?” he suggested, noticing that the adults were still engrossed in a serious conversation, leaving you and Frederik eager for a bit of private time.

"Absolutely," you replied swiftly, giving Charlotte a warm smile and heartfelt thanks for the lovely meal. 

Charlotte had always been like a second mother to you, a role she took on since you never had one of your own. She was the most nurturing person you’d ever known, treating you as if you were her own daughter both before and after Amalie was born. Her kindness and warmth had simply always been a steady source of comfort and stability in your life.

So, with dishes in hand, you and Frederik laughed and joked as you made your way to the kitchen. The rhythmic clinking of plates and cutlery was a backdrop to your easy conversation, a soundtrack to the familiar and comforting routine you both enjoyed. And once the dishes were set in the machine, you headed to his room down the hall.

Frederik’s room was nothing but a testament to his passion for hockey and his journey so far. Posters of hockey legends and heroes covered the walls, each image reflecting the spirit of the sport he adored. Framed photos of his father and mementos from his hockey career were displayed on the shelves, alongside game tickets from around the world that he’d attended with his dad, and sometimes with the whole family. Hockey jerseys, sticks, and various pieces of memorabilia filled the room, creating a shrine to the sport that had shaped Frederik’s life. And these familiar sights only made you smile as you settled onto his one-and-a-half-person bed.

Although you never played hockey yourself, you were a passionate fan. You loved watching Frederik play and spent countless hours at the rink with his teammates and friends. You even volunteered to help with younger teams and eagerly went to any ice-skating events that came up. 

“So, any birthday wishes?” you asked Frederik with a warm smile as he settled into a lounge stool in front of you.

“Not really,” he chuckled. “Honestly, I just wish for success in my hockey career,” he said modestly. That was very typical of Frederik. He wasn’t one to talk much or share his deep thoughts in public. He always stayed humble, even though his talent as a goalie was clear to everyone. And success seemed almost inevitable for him, one way or another.

"Well, we all know that's going to happen," you said with a playful grin. "Come on, there must be something else?"

Frederik didn’t answer straight away. Instead, there was a pause as he seemed to wrestle with his thoughts; something personal and perhaps even a bit awkward was clearly on his mind. It was unusual for him to hesitate like this. He had always been open with you, sharing his deepest thoughts and insecurities, and your close bond was something neither of you had with anyone else. But this time, he seemed reluctant to speak, and you respected his choice to share or not. Even though you were curious, you wouldn’t pressure him into revealing something he wasn’t comfortable with.

"Well... there is something," Frederik finally said, fidgeting with his fingers and scratching the back of his neck. "Or rather, not something, but something I’d like to do," he admitted softly, glancing down with a hint of nervousness in his voice.

"Freddie, you can tell me," you said gently, trying to catch his eye and reassuring him that he was in a safe space with just the two of you.

"It's a bit embarrassing," he admitted, finally looking at you and offering a shy, blushing smile.

You could tell he really wanted to share his thoughts, and your curiosity grew with each passing moment. "I’m your best friend, Freddie; nothing’s too embarrassing," you reassured him softly, which prompted him to let out a deep sigh as he gathered his thoughts.

"Well, you see... the thing is..." he struggled to find the right words. "I’ve never... you know... done 'it'," he almost blurted out, his freckled cheeks turning a deep crimson as his gaze fixed on the wooden floor of his room.

The room fell into silence as the meaning of his words sank in.

"Oh," was all you could say at first, your mind processing his revelation. "Wait... what?" you added, slightly bewildered by what Frederik had just shared. "You’ve never done it?" Your voice carried genuine surprise.

"Shhh..." Frederik quickly hushed you. "I don’t want Seb to find out too."

"Sorry..." you whispered back, keeping your voice low and calm. "I’m just so surprised," you added, meeting Frederik’s gaze as his blush slowly faded and his fair skin returned to its normal colour.

"Why’s that?" he asked, his expression a mix of slight offence and confusion.

But you simply mustered a warm smile for him. "Well, have you met yourself?" you chuckled lightly. "Freddie, you’re one of the most amazing guys I know. You’re kind and wonderful," you said sincerely, looking earnestly at your best friend. "Besides, you have so many friends, both guys and girls, so I just assumed that you’ve..." you trailed off, earning a small smile from him.

Your words touched him, and he knew you meant every one of them.

"Well, I guess I’ve just never been with someone I felt strongly enough about to take that step," he explained, the slight tension between you gradually easing, along with your body language.

"What about Maya?" you asked, referring to the girl Frederik had dated from the ice figure skating team.

It was something of a 'tradition' among the hockey boys to date girls from their own age group, and Frederik had connected with Maya, a tall, fit beauty with big brown eyes and light brown hair. Quite different from your appearance. You were shorter, with light hair and summer freckles, and you had more curves—breasts, hips, and thighs. Not that you were unhappy with how you looked; it was just that you were different from the other girls often seen around Frederik and his hockey friends.

"We never actually did it... I mean, we did 'stuff'—and it was nice, but we never went all the way," he explained, and you nodded in understanding.

"Why not?" you asked, curiosity clear in your voice.

Frederik shrugged. "I guess I just wasn’t ready... and I didn’t feel comfortable going all the way with her…” There was a pause, and you gave him a simple nod before he continued. “What about you?” he asked in return.

But no, you hadn’t done it either. You hadn’t even had a boyfriend or anything close to one. Although you had many friends, including boys, none had ever shown an interest in you in that way. Some of Frederik’s friends had made a move or two, but it was mostly in jest. Besides, Frederik had always made it clear that you were off-limits in that regard.

So you shook your head gently. “No,” you said softly.

“Fair enough,” Frederik replied with a friendly smile. “I mean, you shouldn’t do it if you’re not ready, or just because everyone else is.”

And of course, you knew that. You’d never felt pressured to explore those aspects of yourself, even though many of your closest girlfriends had started to do so with their first loves. But with that said, you had begun to explore on your own, inspired by what they’d shared in your close-knit girl group. 

You had started slowly, with gentle touches on your breasts, softly massaging them and lightly pinching your nipples a few times. Then you’d moved your fingertips down your torso, gently rubbing what you had come to understand as the clitoris—a small, sensitive area that brought you pleasure, even though it felt a bit odd at first. And so, with patience and practice, you learned to enjoy the soft circular movements, which elicited soft moans. Gradually, you began exploring further, starting with a finger at your entrance, learning how to gently please yourself. 

Yet, the idea of having someone else do it for you was still somewhat new and intriguing.

"I know… but the thing is..." you almost whispered, your mind wrestling with whether or not to share your thoughts. "I think I’m actually ready…" you admitted, once again meeting Frederik’s gaze, which prompted a small ‘oh’ from him.

"Really?" he asked, sounding a bit more surprised than he meant to. You nodded in response.

"Yeah... I don’t know why exactly... I guess I’m just really curious about it," you said, keeping your voice low and steady as you looked to Frederik for his reaction. You hoped he wouldn’t judge your sudden revelation, and as always he didn’t. 

His expression remained gentle and composed, though he seemed slightly conflicted about whether to continue the conversation or end it before it veered into suggestions that could impact your friendship. But in the end, he decided to move forward.

"So…" he began, trying again to find the right words. "Do you have anyone in mind?"

You shook your head. No, you hadn’t thought of anyone in particular for this. It had simply been an intriguing idea that had crossed your mind recently.

For some reason, Frederik felt a wave of relief wash over him. Although he knew he had no claim over you, the thought of another guy touching you felt slightly odd for him. And then, a thought struck. 

He had an idea but wasn’t sure if it was too bold for both of you to share such an intimate experience. “What if…” Frederik began tentatively, breaking the silence that had settled between you. “What if you and I, you know, did it?” The words hung in the air, and he seemed genuinely surprised by his own boldness.

You were momentarily taken aback. The idea wasn’t entirely new to you—it had crossed your mind once or twice—but you had never expected Frederik to bring it up. Yet, his suggestion made your heart race, and it also brought a small, intrigued smile to your face.

After a brief pause, you gently nibbled on your lower lip and looked at him thoughtfully. “It wouldn’t be awkward, would it?” you asked hesitantly, the vulnerability in your voice evident.

Frederik let out a soft sigh, a blend of relief and contemplation in his eyes. "How about we just call it... one friend helping another?" he suggested playfully, trying to lighten the mood and ease the tension. And his suggestion made you chuckle softly, and you found yourself nodding in agreement.

"Agreed," you replied softly. 

[kakiastro]

The Astrology of Chris Farley

Now if you grew up in the 90s/early 2000s era, then you probably grew watching this man comedies. He passed when I young but my family still played his movie Tommy Boy all the time!

I thought this would be a cool tribute to him.

So let’s take a look shall we!

(Whole Signs)

-He’s a Leo rising which is literally the sign that represents stardom and fame! He was warm, outgoing, had a fun personality. Their was a childlike quality about him that you just love. He was known as “the class clown” growing up and Leo always have the spotlight on them. Rising degree 5°(Leo degree) Leo degrees indicate fame in a persons chart. Now the 5° is known as short term fame which is true for him unfortunately.

His chart ruler is the Sun. He has Sun Aquarius 7h. Aquarius is the sign of the collective and society. The 7h is the house of partnerships and relationships. This tells me that his entire essence was the people closest to him. Especially his male friends. He might’ve been the more popular of his friend group. People with 7h placements tend to be really popular and well loved. His Sun is 26° (Taurus degree). Taurus energy is stubborn! He was probably very charming and he was able to get away with a lot because of it lol. His 5h which is Leo house is in Sagittarius. He may have known lots of people and sag 5h loves to travel. If he was still here, he would’ve probably met his wife in a foreign country who may have been in the entertainment industry as well.

What first stands out to me though is that Sun-Asc opposition. How he portrayed himself to the public is different than how he actually saw himself. People saw him as this outgoing and open type and he was but he was also very much a loner or he felt like he didn’t fit in. He wanted to fit in because his Sun was there! His lesson was to learn to just be himself without putting on an act.

The 2nd thing that stands out to me is his Sun-Mars Conjunction. No wonder why he had an insane amount of energy. With Saturn connected mean he had great control of his body movements. Being in Aquarius makes it even more fascinating because aqua rules over electricity!

His Pisces moon 8h tells me he was very sensitive to his surroundings and the people around him. He could probably read people very well. Hollywood toxic environment wasn’t it. He should’ve made a movie and moved to the mountains Chile. Pisces rules over substance abuse. With his moon being in the 8h, he was hurting emotionally and drugs was an escape. Scorpio/8h moons emotions are intense and overwhelming. They need to harness that pain into their power! It doesn’t help that his moon ruler Neptune is in Scorpio 4h. Too many emotions. Honestly he needed to be in a quiet environment surrounded by water. Water environments can be a healing environment for him. Therapy and journaling would’ve helped.

Saturn Aquarius 7h only backs up what I was saying earlier. Even though he was really popular, he still felt like an outcast. Saturn 25°(Aries) Aries rules over your physical body and self. Really bad self conscious issues. This poor man omg!🥲

Uranus-Part of Fortune 2h means he will be blessed with wealth and it he would get it once he’s famous (Sun Aquarius). Virgo is ruled by Mercury which rules over comedy! He also has Uranus-Pluto aspect 2h and this can also indicate huge amounts of wealth(Pluto means wealth) this can indicate abusing your finances. Uranus 2h oppose Chiron Pisces 8h, using your money to help feed your inner demons and pains.

Mc conj Jupiter Aries

Mc is the public perception of you and career. In Aries, you are seen as bold, confident, passionate, fiery and very active. Aries Mc tend to do well in any career of their choosing as long as you’re passionate about it. Anytime you have Jupiter in an angular house (1h, 4h, 7h, 10h), also the 11h, it can indicate mass fame! Mc 9h mean your journey to fame is well known and inspiring. How you became famous is talked about than your actual career lol.

Asteroid Varuna is in his 10h. Varuna is known as God-level famous. Everyone knows your name. It gives you “immortality fame”

Asteroid Fan 1h conj Part of fortune 2h. He’s blessed with having a solid fan base that will keep his memory alive even though he’s no longer here.

South Node Capricorn. In a past life, he was too hard on himself. He may have worked a lot and have health issues. 8°(Scorpio degree)

North node 12h Cancer. He was suppose to learn to go with the flow and focus on his private life. Once he got famous, I think he should’ve lived a more quiet life and not the hardcore party scene. Not saying he couldn’t have a good time but not like how he did it. Asteroid Fama conj NN and I think it’s sad that his drug addiction is a huge theme surrounding his death. The good news is that his fama is in the house of idolization so he’ll always be remembered for his comedy.

Thank you for reading! Check out my other fame post in the pinned post. I’m also open for chart readings!

[divyaastro-ashram]

Will You Be a Rockstar? Your Musical Potential with Astrology

Music is a universal language that transcends borders and connects souls. Many aspiring musicians wonder if they have the potential to become rockstars and make a significant impact in the music world. While talent and hard work are essential, astrology can offer valuable insights into your musical abilities and career prospects. By examining the influence of various planets and houses in your birth chart, astrology can reveal your innate talents and guide you on the path to musical success. Discover how the celestial bodies shape your musical journey and unlock the secrets to achieving stardom with a cosmic perspective on your career horoscope.

Planetary Influences

Venus: The Planet of Creativity

Venus governs creativity, pleasure, and the arts. A strong Venus placement in your horoscope indicates a natural inclination towards music and the arts. This planet’s influence can bless you with an innate sense of rhythm, an appreciation for melody, and a deep connection to musical expression. Individuals with a prominent Venus often find themselves drawn to careers in music, art, and entertainment, where their creative talents can shine. Venus also enhances your aesthetic sense, helping you create visually and aurally appealing performances.

Mercury: The Messenger of Music

Mercury represents communication, learning, and intellectual ability. A well-placed Mercury signifies a good sense of rhythm, a knack for grasping musical concepts, and the ability to learn and master musical instruments quickly. This planet’s energy enhances your capacity to write lyrics, understand complex compositions, and communicate your musical ideas effectively. Musicians influenced by Mercury tend to be versatile, often excelling in multiple instruments or musical styles. Mercury's quick-thinking nature can also aid in improvisation and spontaneous performances.

Jupiter: The Guru of Growth

Jupiter is associated with knowledge, growth, and expansion. A strong Jupiter can endow you with musical wisdom, the ability to compose intricate pieces, and the potential to achieve fame. This planet’s influence encourages you to seek deeper meanings in your music and share your knowledge generously with others. Jupiter's expansive nature can lead to opportunities for growth in your musical career, such as international tours or collaborations with other artists. Additionally, Jupiter fosters a sense of optimism and enthusiasm, essential qualities for enduring the challenges of a musical career.

Rahu: The Rebel with a Cause

Rahu represents unconventional thinking and ambition. A positive Rahu placement can give you the drive and originality needed to become a unique and successful musician. This planet’s energy propels you to break traditional boundaries and create music that stands out from the crowd. Rahu's influence often results in a magnetic stage presence and a strong following, as your unique style captivates audiences. Furthermore, Rahu's ambitious nature can drive you to continuously innovate and push the limits of your musical expression.

House Analysis

The 5th House: Creativity Unleashed

The 5th House signifies creative pursuits, self-expression, and entertainment. Planets located in this house can indicate your musical talent and potential for success. A strong 5th House suggests that you have the creativity and self-confidence to shine on stage and captivate audiences with your performance. This house also governs your ability to take risks, which is essential for artistic innovation and growth. With a well-aspected 5th House, you may find joy and fulfilment in creative endeavours, making your musical journey more satisfying.

The 10th House: Career and Recognition

The 10th House represents your profession and public image. Strong benefic planets in this house can signal a successful music career and public recognition. This house’s influence highlights your ability to build a lasting career in the music industry and achieve widespread acclaim for your talents. The 10th House also pertains to your reputation and status, suggesting that your musical achievements can bring significant social recognition. Additionally, this house's influence can indicate the support of influential mentors or connections that can help advance your career.

Analyzing Your Chart

Yogas: Planetary Combinations for Musical Talent

Yogas are specific planetary combinations that can indicate exceptional musical talent and potential for stardom. An astrologer will analyze your chart to identify these auspicious combinations. Yogas involving Venus, Mercury, and Jupiter can be particularly significant for musicians, enhancing your creative abilities and chances of success. For instance, the Saraswati Yoga, which combines Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury, is known to bless individuals with artistic talents and intellectual brilliance. Understanding these yogas can help you harness your potential and focus on areas where you can excel.

Dasas: Timing Your Success

Dasas are planetary periods that can reveal when your musical abilities are most likely to flourish and bring opportunities. Knowing the timing of these periods can help you plan your career moves strategically. An astrologer can guide you on the best times to release new music, go on tour, or make significant career decisions. The planetary periods can indicate favourable times for public performances, collaborations, or starting new projects. By aligning your efforts with these periods, you can maximize your chances of success and avoid potential setbacks.

The Importance of Free Will and Hard Work

Astrology emphasizes the importance of free will and hard work alongside planetary influences. Even if your horoscope shows strong musical potential, dedication and practice are crucial for success. Your determination to hone your skills and pursue your passion will ultimately determine your achievements. While astrological insights can provide valuable guidance, they are not a substitute for the hours of practice and perseverance needed to master your craft. Remember, even the most favourable planetary positions require your active participation to manifest success.

Why You Should Check Your Horoscope Before Pursuing a Career in Music

Identifying Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Checking your horoscope can help you understand your natural strengths and weaknesses in music. By analyzing the positions of key planets, you can discover which musical skills come naturally to you and which areas may require more effort and practice. This insight allows you to focus on honing your strengths while addressing your weaknesses, giving you a balanced approach to your musical career.

Choosing the Right Genre or Instrument

Your horoscope can provide guidance on the type of music or instruments that align with your astrological profile. Certain planetary influences may suggest a proclivity for specific genres, such as classical, rock, or jazz, or indicate a natural talent for particular instruments. By aligning your choices with your astrological tendencies, you can enhance your enjoyment and proficiency in your musical pursuits.

Timing Your Career Moves

Astrology can reveal auspicious times to make significant career moves, such as releasing new music, going on tour, or signing a record deal. Understanding planetary periods and transits can help you plan your actions when the stars are most favourable. This strategic timing can maximize your chances of success and minimize the risks associated with career changes.

Overcoming Challenges

Your horoscope can highlight potential challenges and obstacles in your musical career. By identifying these astrological hurdles early on, you can take proactive measures to mitigate their impact. Astrological remedies, such as wearing specific gemstones or performing certain rituals, can help you navigate these challenges more effectively and maintain your focus on achieving your goals.

Enhancing Creativity and Inspiration

Planetary influences can significantly impact your levels of creativity and inspiration. By understanding the astrological factors that boost your creative energies, you can optimize your work environment and schedule to tap into these periods. This knowledge can help you make the most of your creative bursts and produce your best work during these times.

Building a Sustainable Career

Checking your horoscope can provide long-term insights into building a sustainable and fulfilling music career. It can offer guidance on maintaining your public image, staying motivated, and finding a balance between professional and personal life. These insights can help you create a stable foundation for enduring success in the competitive music industry.

Boosting Confidence and Self-Awareness

Understanding your astrological profile can boost your confidence and self-awareness. Knowing that the stars align with your musical ambitions can provide a sense of validation and motivation. This enhanced self-belief can empower you to pursue your career with greater determination and resilience, overcoming doubts and setbacks along the way.

Embracing Your Musical Destiny

Remember, astrology is a tool for guidance, not a guarantee of success. With dedication, talent, and the right guidance from the stars, you can increase your chances of achieving your musical dreams. Whether your chart indicates potential or not, your passion and perseverance are the keys to unlocking your musical destiny. Embrace the wisdom of astrology to discover your strengths, navigate challenges, and make the most of auspicious timings. Whether you're destined to be a rockstar or a musical virtuoso in another genre, the stars can illuminate your journey and help you achieve your dreams.

Consulting a Professional

For a personalized analysis of your musical potential, consulting a qualified astrologer is recommended. They can provide detailed insights based on your unique birth chart and guide you on your path to musical success. Their expertise can help you navigate your career horoscope and maximize your potential. An astrologer can also offer tailored advice on overcoming obstacles and leveraging opportunities specific to your astrological profile. With their guidance, you can make informed decisions that align with your cosmic blueprint.

 

The Bottom Line

Unlocking your musical potential involves a blend of astrological guidance, personal effort, and unwavering dedication. By understanding the influences of planets like Venus, Mercury, Jupiter, and Rahu, and the significance of the 5th and 10th Houses, you can chart a path to success. Embrace the wisdom of astrology to discover your strengths, navigate challenges, and make the most of auspicious timings. Whether you're destined to be a rockstar or a musical virtuoso in another genre, the stars can illuminate your journey and help you achieve your dreams. With the right combination of talent, hard work, and celestial guidance, you can turn your musical aspirations into reality.

[fangirlshrewt97]

DILF Jakanna?

I cannot believe it has been two weeks since I posted a fic, but it has been a while. I hope to get back to TAOAT real soon, promise. 

I am begging you all, please never let this fic escape Tumblr. That being said, this is totally crack, and hopefully as funny to you as it was to me. 

Also my very first foray into real person fic. It’s genfic though, no pairings involved.

Inspired by a conversations started by @iam-siriuslysher-lokid!! Thanks for your help with this fic too my friend! Hope you like it!

Oh and for my non-indian readers:

Ludo is a strategy board game for two to four players, in which the players race their four tokens from start to finish according to the rolls of one or two dice. The board looks like this.

///

Charan was contemplating the ludo board carefully. Tarak had already cut one of his pieces back despite Charan’s puppy eyes, and had two pieces close to home base. One of Charan’s pieces could cut one of Tarak’s but he would need to roll an eleven. On the other hand, if he rolled a 4 and a 3 he could move his two free pieces into safe spaces. He scratched his chin, looking at Tarak’s smirking face from above his glasses. He rolled the dice.

“Yes!” he cheered when the dice showed an eleven, allowing him to gleefully skip a piece up till Tarak’s and cut it, sending it back to base.

“Areey!” Tarak groaned, pouting slightly as Charan shot him a smug smile.

Charan was happy to be back from holiday. The trio were gearing up for a second round of press tours for RRR, this time internationally, and Charan tried not to think too hard about it, lest his head explode from the insane way the movie had blown up abroad. Rajamouli garu had asked to meet with them both, so Tarak had offered his house. Charan had arrived earlier in the day, and both men had shared a lunch after a long break, enjoying the time spent together.

They’d been feeling bored though, so Tarak had gone and retrieved the board game from his kids toy closet, making Charan grin. Stardom was a beast of its own, and rarely left time for engaging in simple childhood joys like ludo. Even if your friend was ruthless as an opponent.

“Revenge is sweet.” Charan said.

Tarak rolled his eyes and threw down the two dice, crowing when one of them stopped at 6. He removed his recently eliminated piece from base, winking at Charan who was gaping at him. He moved his other piece five spaces away from Charan’s.

Charan bit his lip as Tarak rolled the dice again, groaning when he got a five and cut his second piece.

“You are terrible.”

Tarak laughed, the sound deep and joyful. Charan grinning fondly at him. At his him, Rhyme snuffled at the loud noise, burrowing deeper into the couch cushions. Charan ran a hand over her back, scratching her ears.

Charan took the dice back, preparing to roll. With two pieces in base, and one only a quarter of the way through the board, against Tarak’s two pieces at home base and two active pieces, he had a slim chance of turning the tides for this round.

However, before he could roll, Rajamouli walked into the room, staring down at his phone in bewilderment.

“Hey Jakanna! Good afternoon!” Tarak greeted cheerfully.

“Hmm, afternoon Tarak. Charan. Thanks for meeting with me.” Jakanna said, glancing up at them before going back to scrolling at his phone, brows furrowed.

“Uh…is everything ok sir?” Charan asked. Normally the man was not so glued to his phone unless they were on set. Was there a problem with the press tour?

“I- Can you explain what this means to me?” Rajamouli asked as he entered the room properly. “Karthik is busy, and the producers wanted me to look through our Instagram page. There was this one photo of me doing the interviews in US, and I don’t understand the comments.”

Tarak snorted. “That may be a blessing. If it is just one, leave it. It’s not rude no?”

Rajamouli frowned, scrolling through his phone some more. “I have no idea. There are so many saying the same thing though. And some are just…inappropriate.”

Charan tilted his head. “What are they saying?”

“What does Di-dilf? D-I-L-F mean?” Rajamouli asked. Charan froze, brain blue screening  as sirens started to ring in his head.

“What?” he asked, voice sounding strangled.

Rajamouli shrugged. “A lot of the comments have that acronym. Others are just saying daddy Jakanna. What does it stand for?”

Charan swallowed down a scream, looking wide eyed as he turned to Tarak. Who was staring at Rajamouli with a look of abject horror.

“Uh…what am I missing?” Rajamouli asked as he finally looked up to see the pair.

Tarak got up so swiftly he knocked the pieces askew on the board, marching straight to the man and grabbing his phone and throwing it in the direction of the couch.

“Tarak!”

“You haven’t had anything to drink yet! Come on, go to the kitchen and get some water. There’s also lemon rice and the chicken curry left over from lunch if you’ve not eaten.” Tarak said as he pushed the man out of the room.

“But! My phone!” Jakanna said as he tried to push back but Tarak was determined.

“Will be here when you get back. Go!” and then he slammed the door in Rajamouli’s face.

Charan looked on with his mouth wide open. He turned to see Rajamouli’s phone laying unlocked two feet away. He shouldn’t…

He grabbed it, scrolling up to the top. It was a decent photo of the director, sitting comfortably on the chair, with his curls nicely tousled, beaming at the camera. The top comments were most praise for the man and the movie, but it only took a couple minutes to get to the comments in question.

There were a lot which were just strings of emojis and DILF or Daddy sprinkled in between.

Then he got to the actual thirst tweets.

‘I may not know you as a father, but I’d like to get to know you as Daddy.’

‘I would like SS Rajamouli to direct me with all the positions he wants in bed.’

‘I respect Rajamouli so much that even my p*ssy calls him Daddy.’

Charan choked at the last one, sure he was red as a tomato. From the corner of his eye he saw Tarak wince.

“Charan.” Tarak warned but Charan was already trembling. One look at Tarak’s stern face broken him.

Charan burst out laughing, throwing his head back as his body shook with how hard he was laughing. He leaned back, accidentally pressing on Rhyme, making her whine loudly. But in his attempt to correct himself, he lost balance and tumbled to the floor. His vision blurred as tears started to stream down his face. Pain radiated from his hip but still he could not control his hysteria. His removed his glasses to avoid breaking them, wiping uselessly at the tears continuing to pour from him.

Tarak was standing a few feet away, one hand on his hip as another pinched the bridge of his nose. “Seriously Charan… it cannot have been that bad.”

Charan curled into himself, pushing Rhyme back from where she was indignantly snuffling in his ear for waking her up so rudely. His stomach was starting to hurt from all the laughing. He waved the phone he was still clutching at Tarak. The man came closer and took the phone, scrolling through the comments himself, face twisting into a grimace even as he started to blush too.

He shut off the screen, pocketing the phone. Clearing his throat, he crossed his arms across his chest and stared down at Charan, who was still losing it.

“Are you done?” Tarak asked as Charan’s laughter started to slow. Except the question had the opposite effect, sending Charan into another laughing fit, this time so hard the man wasn’t even making any sound, just shaking.

“This isn’t funny!” Tarak hissed at him. “This-devuda, this is why I stay away from social media.”

“Are-Are you kidding me?” Charan wheezed. “This is-the best thing ever!”

“Charan!” Tarak snapped.

Charan lifted his hands in surrender, biting his lip as he tried to calm himself down. He placed his head between his knees, hugging them until he was mostly back to normal. Tarak came back to the couch, sitting heavily on it, one calf resting against Charan’s side. “Are you seriously saying you’ve never once gone through comments where the fans were drooling over you?”

“I-that-this is not about me!” Tarak stammered, a dark blush covering his cheeks that made Ram chuckle and press his cheek against Tarak’s knee.

“What the hell do we tell him?” Tarak wondered aloud.

Charan was still giggling. “The truth.”

Tarak threw him a glare making him giggle harder. “I am not explaining what DILF stands for.”

“Do you know what DILF stands for?” Charan asked curiously, snickering when Tarak knocked on his head. “Hey! I was just checking, Mr. The Internet is scary and I am above it.”

“Oh and I bet you know all the slang?” Tarak challenged. Charan winked.

“Upsi and I make a game out of finding the most ridiculous and creative ones that are addressed to me. My fans…love me very much.” Charan replied.

Tarak snorted while Charan grinned at him with all his teeth. “Now who is the terrible one?”

“Pass me my phone.” Charan asked.

“Why?” Tarak asked, squinting even as he did as requested.

Charan grinned at him, unlocking his phone, and scrolling his recently called till he reached the one he wanted. He video called him, lifting a hand to stop Tarak’s question.

The call rang four times before Rana’s face filled the screen. From the background, he looked to be sitting in his balcony. Perfect, this would have been awkward if he had been outside. “Yo! Charan!”

Charan laughed “Rana!”

Tarak jerked next to him, trying to dive for his phone. “Charan, no!”

Charan dodged him, scooting back on his butt. “Shut up, this is too good to keep to ourselves. Plus Rana will confirm that this is, in fact, hysterical.”

“Give it.” Tarak hissed, shifting to look like he was going to pounce.

“My phone.” Charan said, resisting the urge to stick out his tongue.

“Uh…did you need something?” Rana asked, eyebrow raised.

“You know how I was supposed to meet with Rajamouli sir? You will not believe what happened.”

“Charan!” Tarak begged, lunging at him. Charan scrambled, but he forgot that Tarak used to play rugby, and lost his breath as the man tackled and half pinned him.

“Tarak!” Charan choked out. “Get off! You’re heavy!”

Tarak wrestled his phone out of his grip, his concerted face meeting a vaguely confused but mostly amused Rana. “Am I interrupting something boys?”

Tarak rolled his eyes. “Charan needs to learn when to take things seriously.”

Charan laughed, jerking upwards hard enough to send Tarak sprawling next to him. He crowed as he sat up, crossing his legs underneath him as he retrieved his phone. “Ha! Some rugby player you are.”

Rana was clearly holding in laughter. “I still have no idea what you called for. Congrats on getting Tarak off your back.”

Charan winked at him. “Going to the gym helps. Anyways. Rajamouli. He came in today because he was confused about a comment someone left on Instagram.”

“Ok…?” Rana said. “I love the man, but he isn’t exactly up to date on the internet lingo. What had they commented?”

Charan smiled wolfishly, making Tarak groan and drop his head, the thunk loud enough to be heard. “He came into the room and asked us what ‘DILF’ meant.”

There was a beat of quiet before Rana started to roar with laughter, setting of Charan’s own cackling. Each time one of them managed to get their laughter under control, they’d look at the other and the laughter would start again.

Tarak had sat up by then, and after watching this go on for a solid five minutes sighed and grabbed Charan’s phone, cutting the call.

“Hey!” Charan protested lightly, still snickering. “I wasn’t done speaking with him!”

“I was done hearing you both laughing like lunatics.” Tarak stated.

Charan pouted, pawing at Tarak to return his phone to him.

“Ok, enough, you’ve had your fun.” Tarak said. “What do we tell him?”

Charan shrugged. “Hey Jakanna, that acronym you asked about? Essentially all those people want you to bend them over a desk and fuck them?”

“What?!” came a squeaked question.

Tarak and Charan froze before whipping their heads towards the room door simultaneously. A very red Rajamouli was standing there looking at them in terror.

Oops.

///

Tagging (If I missed out on anyone in the taglist, please let me know!):  @rambheem-is-real @budugu @bromance-minus-the-b @junebugyeahhh @hissterical-nyaan @obsessedtoafault @hufhkbgg @yehsahihai @rorapostsbl @bluesolace1 @fadedscarlets @alikokinav @chaotic-moonlight @rambheemisgoated @rambheemlove @jaganmaya @burningsheepcrown @lovingperfectionwonderland @rosayounan @iam-siriuslysher-lokid @thewinchestergirl1208 @dumdaradumdaradum @ronaldofandom @jjwolfesworld @jrntrtitties @kashpaymentsonly @jeonmahi1864 @zackcrazyvalentine @stanleykubricks @m3gs1mps4a @tulodiscord @teddybat24 @sally-for-sally @ssabriel @jadebomani @stuckyandlarrystuff @veteran-fanperson @ohfuckoffpls  @carminavulcana @jrntrtitties @yashuika @doodlesofthelastpage @filesbeorganized @meownique

[gleefanfictionfriday]

July & August Masterpost

Between the months of July and August, we have 5 posting days. Below, you’ll find links to each of the stories posted, divided by author. We would LOVE to have more of you participate! It’s always awesome to have more authors and more new stories to read. Remember, you can fill any prompt any time after the prompt is posted, and you can post your fill any time after the posting day for the prompt. Please consider joining us!

Meanwhile, if you haven’t had a chance to yet, please check out the works that have been posted for our prompt fills! They’re amazing! Enjoy!

Stranger Than Crackfiction by @gleefulpoppet Multi-Chapter work: Chapters One through Five (Chapter Six now available) Summary: [AU] In the magical land of Hollywood where dreams come true, there’s an adage that states, "It’s impossible to tell what is real and what is fiction." It’s even harder for Kurt Hummel and Blaine Anderson to separate as they were thrown into stardom overnight six years ago, and their show, His & His, is still the hottest thing on TV. Add to that being head over heels in love with each other, addicted to fanfiction, and have a propensity for roleplaying, and it’s got everyone buzzing as fans try to decide what these Hollywood stars are up to. Because sometimes, reality is stranger than crackfiction. Read it now on AO3!!!

Braid of Gold by @jayhawk-writes​ (In Every Lifetime series Part 16) Multi-Chapter work: Chapters One through Four (Chapter Five now available) Summary: Kurt and Blaine ask Caphriel to make the decision about where they go next. He chooses a lifetime where Kurt and Blaine will have to navigate a situation they've not yet been in. They'll have to work through loss and betrayal and ultimately, their bond will be stronger as a family because of it. Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

Stargazing Memories by @jayhawk-writes One-shot Summary: Kurt reminisces on some of his experiences here in Cassville while waiting for Blaine to show up. This is one of those memories. (This story was inspired by KB.Ellen’s Summer Story.) Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

Nerds by @jayhawk-writes One-shot Summary: Kurt decides to move away from home for college to a much more liberal town than Lima. So what if it happens to be the same place his favorite team is? That’s just icing on the cake. He fully expects to go to classes and make friends. What he doesn't expect is to meet the love of his life in the most unexpected of places while wearing the most unlikely of outfits. Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

Poppet’s Standards of Communication by @jayhawk-writes One-shot - Part of the Outlined on My Finger ‘verse Summary: Kurt and Blaine are excited to read and learn from Poppet as she releases her first book into the world. Their communication is already pretty good. How much better will it get after reading her advice? Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

Could I Have This Dance? by @jayhawk-writes One-shot - Part of the Outlined on My Finger ‘verse Summary: This wasn't exactly what Blaine had in mind when he told Kurt he fantasized about lap dances. He loves it just the same, though, and he'll never think of science the same way again. (Directly follows Poppet’s Standards of Communication) Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

Crimson Yarn by @teddyshoney​ (In Every Lifetime series Part 15) Multi-chapter work - Complete Summary: Back from New York, Kurt has just purchased a lake house in need of fixing up to keep him busy while he tries to heal from his past relationship. Back from LA, Blaine reluctantly takes a job from his father while he mourns the loss of his dream. Will red yarn, coffee, and some heavy conversation be enough for both boys to realize that there may be an answer to their healing right in front of them? Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

Do You Have A Moo? by @teddyshoney One-shot - Part of the Klaine Goes to Daycare series Summary: Four-year-old Kurt is excited to get to daycare. Why? It's "'magination Friday," and they get to play dress-up. But thanks to having to eat breakfast before playing, Kurt doesn't get to play the part he wants to play. Blaine, however, is determined to make it all better for him. Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

Five Letters and A Geronimo Lily by @teddyshoney One-shot Summary: Letters slipped under doors, flower delivery, showers, and singing. Shared apartment walls are typically so annoying. Not this time. This time, they're a blessing. Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

Football and Gaga by @teddyshoney One-shot Summary: Kurt and Blaine have been dating for nearly 18 months when Blaine comes up with the perfect plan to surprise the love of his life. However, he missed just a few important details, and now he needs Burt's help—complete with codenames and phrases—if he's going to pull this off and give Kurt a magical 18 month anniversary. Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

The Poetry Marathon by @teddyshoney One-shot Summary: Blaine's set himself a goal: 24 poems in 24 hours. He's focused, and he's going to complete his challenge. Kurt, on the other hand, would really like just a couple of moments to distract him because he NEEDS Blaine. Read it now on AO3 or FF.net!!!

[yeochangguscheeks]

Cube ent has done lots of things wrong, but I dare say, the one thing that they’ve definitely done right with their boy groups, is that, they raised a family, a band of brothers.

I have no idea how korean ent companies work, but I’d imagine the boy groups and girl groups are handled by different departments, judging from how ptg was treated vs how clc is still being treated.

I have unintentionally fallen in love with all 3 generations of cube boy groups. BEAST was my very introduction into kpop and I’ve been following them since their Bad Girl days. Just as I thought I was too old to fangirl, my interest in BTOB piqued. While I never noticed ilhoon when he first debuted, I fell completely in love with him during their Remember Me comeback. I even saved up enough money to fly to Korea to watch the Dream Concert for BTOB (bless those pre-covid days). And then, just as I once again believed that I’m genuinely too old to check out newer groups, I somehow fallen into the Pentagon trap. I remember watching ptg maker because they were from Cube, but then I didn’t follow them until recently.

This is really just me rambling. It honestly warms my heart so much to see how these 3 boy groups genuinely treat their members like family. I mean, there must be a reason why Highlight and BTOB are one of the few gen2/3 groups who are still relevant.

It’s also kinda amazing how all three groups struggled before exploding into stardom. Beast was literally called the ‘Recycled’ group and it didn’t help that the much more popular 2pm are also branded as ‘Beastly idols’, who genuinely had better bodies than our dear beast themselves. Lol. I remember Gikwang sharing about how their house was in the basement and you can look into the house from the road and fans could literally look into their shower.

Or poor BTOB who nobody paid attention to until Yook Sungjae somehow snagged a role in School 2017 and they blew up. People finally realised their talent. Not only that, BTOB gave off a genuine vibe, like they’re just your neighbourhood hyungs. But look at them now. Pretty much every new group looks up to them, just as how Beast was THE goal for newer groups in their earlier days.

And now we’re here with dear ol Pentagon. It has taken awhile, but I genuinely hope with the bottom of my heart that they will walk the flower path from here on. I’m honestly so thankful that Cube did not give up on our boys, because they genuinely have so so much more to offer. It’s a little scary thinking about how many years it’s gonna be before ptg is a whole once again, but I trust they will make it work.

I have absolutely looked up to all 3 groups for their sheer resilience and passion to achieve their dreams. I mean, I’m sure other groups work hard too. I have no idea what is it about the Cube boys either, but I’m genuinely in awe with them. If you haven’t, please go have a listen to ptg’s Genius. I’ve never teared from the lyrics of a song, but damn does Genius hit the spot.

From Kino singing about there’s nothing to be envious of people on stages, to Yuto rapping about the fear of going home without becoming successful. Whilst in a different context, I think a lot of people in their 20s would relate. It’s such a dog eat dog world and the word ‘success’ has become so skewed. We’re measuring our ability to succeed with material wealth that is much easily attainable in the past. But that’s a rant not meant for an oppa blog.

I just watched ptg’s idol wonderland and it was kinda surreal seeing Gikwang MC or the fact that Ptg’s main dancer, Kino, danced in front of the Cube Ent’s OG main dancer, Gikwang.

I just seriously love Highlight, BTOB and Pentagon sooooo much. It’s so nice to see them interact with one another, but it’ll be a dream come true if somehow, all three groups can come together for a broadcast. A girl can dream I suppose.

[just-call-me-the-intrusive-thot]

Che Bellissima Neve

Pairings: Romantic Prinxiety

TWs: agoraphobia mention, just a lot of long distance pining

Summary: With his lover constantly travelling the world, acting on stages all over Europe and beyond, Virgil wonders if it’ll be snowing in Venice by the time he sees Roman again...

(Recommended music: Snow In Venice by Elizaveta)

--

Virgil Giordano was never normally one for things like promises and long goodbyes. 

Coffee in hand, he warmed his cold fingers against the mug. His phone was right there by his side, but his right index finger instead busied itself - not with numbers - but with cursive. 

Looping letters. 

Spelling out where his heart lay.

The winter had seen fit to bless Venice with a soft kiss of frost. Gathering in the corners of the windows, haphazardly along the walkways, tickling the noses and lips of passers by. All the while Virgil couldn’t fight off the disappointment as the sky remained clear. The stars were beautiful, but his wasn’t among them. No, his star was miles away from where he should be; back home, in Virgil’s arms. 

Stealing his body warmth while they cuddled together. Complaining at the lack of room for the both of them on the one chair, but still refusing to move. Running his hands through the freshly plum pigmented plume of hair atop Virgil’s head. 

A soft sigh left Virgil as the homebound poet quietly pined for his lover. 

-

Roman D’Angelo had only dreamt of this level of stardom in far fetched dreams and scrawled in journals during drama lessons. 

Even as he walked out of Berlin’s Theatre Des Westens still wearing his getup as Leopold Bloom, Roman could hardly believe he was one of the most sought after up-and-coming musical actors in Europe. Stopping for autographs was brief; Roman adored his fans of course, but the face he always longed to see among them was never there. Not for a lack of wanting, but because his beloved was confined to his home - no, their home, it was always home for the both of them no matter how far Roman travelled - by his agoraphobia. Roman never held it against him, he only wished he could call home more often. 

As his taxi passed a phonebox, Roman politely asked the driver to stop. His wallet held rarely any change these days, but he had what he hoped would be enough.

The cold night air caressed his fingers unpleasantly. Curse his lack of patience, but spontaneity was always Roman’s forte when it came to acts of the heart. Screw his phone that needed charging back in his hotel room, he needed to hear his beloved’s voice that second. Each number dialled brought a new rush of excitement and nerves until the phone began to ring.

He just hoped Virgil hadn’t decided to have an early night..

-

Luckily for Roman, Virgil was as much an insomniac as he was an agoraphobe.

Of course, he didn’t recognise the number, perhaps it was a spam caller? Probably. He rolled his eyes and went back to sipping his cooling coffee, content to let the answering system take a message. Instead of some hack trying to sell him car insurance or some scam worthy payment plan, the voice on the other end had Virgil scrambling to answer the call so quickly he nearly doused himself in lukewarm bean water.

“Virgil? It’s me, though I take it you must be asle-”

“Roman!”, Virgil cursed the crack in his voice as he answered, “I’m here, Princey. It’s been a while, where are you calling from this time, mister world-famous-actor?”

Roman’s hearty laughter had Virgil’s own heart beating so loudly he wondered if he should schedule a doctor’s visit. “I’m not quite there yet, cuore mio. But I’m in Berlin, Charlottenburg to be exact. And it’s still snowing, in fact it’s snowed every night since opening night. Can you believe that?”

“Really?”, Virgil sighed, unable to stop the fond smile making itself at home on his lips, “Sounds lovely.”

“It is…. But it does have its drawbacks.”, the actor mused, drinking in the adorable noise of intrigue his lover made over the phone.

“And what would they be?”

“... It’s not home.”, Roman began, his eyes following the tufts of snow that danced through the skies outside the phone box. “And you’re not here.”

For a moment, Roman wondered if he’d overstepped. If he’d made Virgil feel bad for not being able to be beside him, but his fears were replaced by a longing he wasn’t aware he was capable of as Virgil’s voice - almost strange in it’s softness - caressed his ears, 

“Funny, I was just thinking that myself.”

It was hard for Roman to find the words, but he mustered the courage to ask, “Are you doing alright, Virge?”. The silence gave Roman his answer, he knew Virgil would never admit to him outright just how much he missed him, how lonely he was at night without Roman by his side. Well, not directly.

“... When will you be home again, vita mia?”

Virgil knew Roman would be home in an instant if he could manage it. If he wasn’t bound by the dream he’d had since their adolescent years, Virgil knew his beloved would be in his arms right that second. But the poet knew what he signed up for when he fell in love with Roman D’Angelo; he was prepared to let his beloved chase his dreams while he could never follow alongside him. That didn’t mean it hurt any less to be without him.

“...Virgil? Are you still there?”

“Oh, um, yeah. Sorry, I-“

“Got caught up in your thoughts again, cuore mio?”

Virgil nodded bashfully before realising Roman couldn’t see him, “Yeah. I just…. I miss you so much, Roman..”

“... I know you do. And I miss you too.”

He hadn’t meant for Roman to hear the soft, dejected huff he let out, but as he practically heard Roman frown over the phone, Virgil sighed, “It’s been almost a year, Roman, almost a year of telling myself not to be selfish, just wishing you were here with me instead. I just… I want you to be happy, but I don’t know how much longer I can go on without you.”

The anxiety he felt pooling in his stomach threatened to draw out his tears when Roman softly spoke again over the line. Lord knows, Virgil adored the tenderness in his tone and the love dripping from each syllable,

“Vita mia, anima mia, bisogna resistere...”, Virgil’s breath hitched and he was unsure if it was because he was close to an anxiety attack or because he could feel the hope building itself a home in his chest, “I’ll be home soon, vita mia, I promise.”

He wanted to believe it, but he’d heard those words before and Virgil couldn’t help the doubt his hope was wrestling with, “Before or after it starts snowing in Venice?”, he joked.

Roman chuckled, they were both grateful for the moment of levity, “Never doubt the power of my undying love for you, Giordano.”

Virgil chuckled, affectionately snarking something akin to ‘sbruffone’ as he hung up and got cosy in his armchair. It had just passed midnight, he might as well get comfy considering he wouldn’t be able to sleep now. Not with Roman invading his every thought…

-

Once Roman had returned to the taxi, he was filled with an unwavering resolve. He all but raced to his hotel room; his hands blurred in his vision as he began to pack the few things he had brought with him into his suitcase with one hand while the other held his phone. 

After the couple of times he’d pulled out the charger on accident, Roman was finally able to call his manager. Despite her protests, Roman knew they could let his understudy handle being Leo Bloom for the last couple of shows. Even if it meant it might cost him some valuable work and publicity.

Sure, being on stage was his dream, but Virgil was his life. 

“I’m coming home, vita mia...”

-

The armchair was so comfy. Virgil hoped whoever was knocking at his door was prepared for the consequences of waking him up. 

In fairness, he should have gone to bed instead of snuggling even warmer into the chair, but also in fairness there was no reason for anyone to be knocking on his door at half four in the morning. Seriously, who just does that? Virgil hoped it wasn’t some stranger in need of help; he didn’t fancy having to stomach explaining he was literally terrified of leaving his house. Perhaps it would just be Valerie next door, checking in on him, that’d be nice. That he could deal with. As long as it wasn’t the mailman. Or Mormans. 

If his fear of going outside could be rivalled by anything, it was with his hatred of people trying to intrude on his home.

Virgil’s mental ramblings stopped as his mismatched eyes caught a glimpse of a figure through the frosted glass of the door. It was hard to be certain, but the silhouette, the colours, even when distorted…

Never had the door known such force as Virgil tore open the door and came face to face with the love of his life.

“Roman…!!”

The taller man smiled like the angels Virgil was sure had carved him; his cheeks and nose were flushed rosy red, his dark hair was tousled and stuffed underneath the winter beanie atop his head. By the way he was breathing, Virgil guessed that Roman had run at least the length of the street to get here.

Despite knowing he’d regret it once the intrusive thoughts came for him, Virgil braved the two steps outside his doorway to wrap his arms around Roman, a gesture his beloved returned. Warm hands resting on Virgil’s lower back assured him that everything that was happening was real; that the Roman in his arms was real. He didn’t give a second thought to kissing his darling actor, he just did.

When they finally broke for air, Roman chuckled, sweet as honey, bathing Virgil’s face in warm breath, “Vita mia, Virgil, I’m loath to suggest we stop, but I fear you may freeze if we continue. I love you but I’d rather the love of my life not be turned into a popsicle.”

It took Virgil a second to realise what Roman meant. Not only had he rushed out in his pjs, but his clothes and skin were littered with tiny plumes of snow.

Snow. In Venice. 

When Roman pulled off a surprise, he sure did it in style.

As much as the poet could feel his anxiety over being outside - even momentarily - begin to build, he couldn’t help but let out a chuckle,

“Come on then, Roman,”, Virgil huffed softly, his smile so beaming with love, Roman wondered if it was possible to be burned alive by it, “You have stories to tell me from your travels, and I have a warm armchair and some coffee to for us to share...”

----

Fluff? Straight up fluff? No angst!? It’s likelier than you think!

Seeing out the year with a happy little fic based on smth I talked about with a friend after the Christmas Concert Livestream!

All the Italian used is stuff I tried to cross reference so if anything is wrong or could be improved, please let me know!

(they’re supposed to be talking in Italian the entire fic I just wanted to add in some actual Italian like in the song)

Taglist:

@patton-cake @does-this-look-logicality-to-you @justalittlecorrupted @irritating-lady-knight @katlikethesword @gattonero17 @shadowylemon

[cristalconnors]

TOP TEN ALBUMS OF 2020

10. Women in Music pt. III, HAIM

Think back on all the flavor of the month acts that came and went in the 2010s, bursting onto the scene with a distinct sound and, inevitably, a sophomore album that proved their toolkit wasn't all that deep or varied. It was easy to imagine this fate for Haim, with the bubblegum pop rock of their juggernaut debut Days Are Gone in permanent rotation at Forever 21. That in 2020, nearly 8 years after their meteoric rise, they'd deliver an artistic declaration this varied and admirably strange is kind of shocking. You can hear the liberation of stylistic experimentation across the album as the Haim sisters let go of any ideas they had about how their music should sound.

9. songs, ADRIANNE LENKER

With the world on pause, sequestered in a cabin in The Berkshires, time and space folded in on themselves for Adrianne Lenker when she wrote the 11 tracks on the aptly titled songs. Refracted childhood memories, tender observations on relationships built and broken, and stunningly ethereal ruminations on the nature of life and death coalesce into an improbably straightforward folk album that feels almost like a religious experience.

8. What’s Your Pleasure? JESSIE WARE

What’s Your Pleasure? is often heralded as a glorious revival of disco, and it is that, but it isn’t just disco. It’s also classic R&B. It’s modern synthpop. It’s Prince. Jessie Ware’s luscious tour of the dancefloor tries on a lot of different subgenres on for size and they all fit like a pair of skin tight bell bottoms as Ware puts on her boogie shoes, lets her hair down, and exudes confidence and raw sensuality. 

7. Muthaland, BBYMUTHA

Trap at its most effervescent. Brittnee Moore is firing on all cylinders as she crafts a deceptively complex, hilariously filthy freak-out that charms with its saucy witticisms and insightful observations on motherhood set atop sprawling, immersive beats. The smartest, most expansive rap album of the year and it’s a debut! Look out for bbymutha. 

6. folklore, TAYLOR SWIFT

What a journey I’ve had with Taylor Swift. I couldn’t stand her for years. Hers was music for the simple, homophobic Baptist girls I went to high school with, not me. Still, the rapturous praise folklore received upon its surprise release piqued my interest, so I gave it a go. Listening to it, I couldn’t reconcile what was happening- why is this so good? Everything I’d ever heard of hers (admittedly not much beyond the singles) had been so wooden. So Wal-Mart. But this was stunning. Lush production you could bathe in. Complex melodies atop sparse accompaniment, drawing out layers of meaning in Swift’s lyrics. Was she always like this and I was just a hater? I went back to make sure and *Annette Bening voice* well, yes and no. While I’ll say I hand’t been giving her enough credit before, this is still leaps and bounds better than anything she’s ever done. Of all the unwelcome changes 2020 brought me, becoming a Swiftie wasn’t so bad, I guess. 

5. how i’m feeling now, CHARLI XCX

When we first went into quarantine, we all had that one friend we were particularly worried about how they were going to fare in lockdown. Oh, her? She’s gonna lose her fucking mind 6 weeks in. Charli XCX strikes me as that girl. Hell, she was regularly performing at warehouse parties in her mid-teens. Her whole life has played out at the club, surrounded by strangers and friends alike, lost together in the pulse of the dancefloor. But it turns out, being involuntarily thrust into a life of domesticity turned out to be good for her. Trapped together with her boyfriend for the longest consecutive period of time in their 7-year relationship, she sounds more content here than she ever has. The vast majority of these tracks are incredibly vulnerable, relatively straight forward love songs, not distracted by the frenzied production of A.G. Cook and co. but rather deepened by it. 

4. Fetch the Bolt Cutters, FIONA APPLE

In an era where most music is made with the expectation that its listener will be wearing headphones or earbuds, Fetch the Bolt Cutters demands to be played on the record player in the living room. It needs to reverberate off your walls and fill the room to the point where you can’t tell if the many household sounds that populate the album are coming from your house or hers. Fiona Apple moves with the trees in the breeze, but also the blinds, the floorboards, the pots and pans. She achieves a kind of symbiosis with her surroundings to create a world that’s tactile and buzzes with an always palpable, hard earned sense of self that she’s still working at. 

3. Róisín Machine, RÓISÍN MURPHY

"Fuck, I’m still unfolding” Róisin Murphy tells NME. So are the 10 tracks of the brilliantly titled Róisín Machine, the only disco released this year that a) actually sounds like it should be playing at the Paradise Garage, and b) pushes the genre into uncharted territory. Parrot’s production is velvet smooth, with heavy, rattling bass and synths that breathe, pulling its listener like a current you can’t fight and don’t want to. What a blessing to all the gays that discovered Murphy via Grey’s Anatomy and So You Think You Can Dance all those years ago to have this miracle of an album. 

2. Set My Heart on Fire Immediately, PERFUME GENIUS

The corporeal and the divine cross paths often on Set My Heart on Fire Immediately, a vivid symphonic vision that is, like Mike Hadreas’s voice, in turns delicate and coarse, evoking baroque pop at times, shoegaze at others, but feels beholden to nothing. After a near decade as music’s premier purveyor of queer longing, this is Perfume Genius’s panoramic opus. 

1. Heaven to a Tortured Mind, YVES TUMOR

Yves Tumor confronts stardom on Heaven to a Tortured Mind. Granted, they’re more critical darling than household name, but listening to this you’d think they were Bowie at the height of the Ziggy Stardust years, being dogged by rabid fans everywhere they went. This is rockstar shit. After the sinister textures of 2018’s masterful Safe in the Hands of Love, electric guitar becomes Sean Bowie’s talisman, unlocking a newfound swagger and fire that permeates every minute of this jagged, unhinged rock n roll triumph.

MORE READING:

#30-21, #20-11

[omniswords]

Chronicles of a Parisian Dumbass 14

Happy Chronicles Update! I promise I'm still trucking along on this baby. I think?? We've also officially reached the halfway mark on this installment, which is kind of. Wow. That's WILD.

anyway, I hope you enjoy!

welcome to today’s episode of Luka’s Word to the Wise: whatever it is, it doesn’t have to be perfect. it just has to be good.

thanks, I.

Ivan is right. And technically, so is his Ma, who’s been telling him and Juleka this for as long as he can remember. But Luka will give them the gratification of saying I told you so when this is all over. Even though he could take a stab in the dark and guess that only one of them would take him up on that offer. And it wouldn’t be Ivan. And it wouldn’t be his Ma.

In between messaging back and forth with Bubbles over the next couple of days, Luka puts together a flyer. It’s not exactly the best—just something he threw together on one of those free graphic design websites, definitely nothing like a Gabriel billboard. But it’s punchy, and it fits the vibe, and it gets the overall message across. And more importantly, Juleka doesn’t give him The Look for it. In fact, she smiles over his shoulder when it’s done, and she rubs her fist in his hair, and she affectionately says, “Now can you chill?”

Luka only grins and throws her into a fireman’s carry for another round of ping-pong. He’s pretty sure he doesn’t know how to be totally chill any more.

They pool pocket money, leftovers from past paychecks, to put in an order for copies at the local print shop. Only Rose has ever been; she tells them she’s tagged along with a couple of old friends from an art club to print issues of the comic they’ve been working on together. It’s nice to see her take the lead, point out the best paper stocks and finishes and spot colors, whatever those are, based on what she’s overheard. It certainly beats the alternative: four barely-adults standing awkwardly at the counter, pretending they know what they’re doing.

Even if, according to Luka’s Ma, that’s most of what adulthood is, anyway.

They decide on something glossy because it makes the colors pop, and admittedly Luka has to thank his lucky, anxious stars for saving the file in every format imaginable because he wasn’t sure which one they’d need. Before he leaves them and heads to work on his bike, Juleka gives him another smile, and Ivan manages a single, subtle nod, and Rose’s eyes sparkle. And it’s starting to feel a little less like a thing he needs to do. It’s a thing he wants to do. With them.

And, well. Any bonuses are just that. Bonuses.

These days, Luka’s made it a point to bike past the bakery on his way to work, because if he’s as much of a regular as the Dupain-Cheng family claims, then he might as well act like it. To be fair, he doesn’t always stop in to talk or buy something; in fact, most times he doesn’t. maybe it’s some silly sense of hope that he’ll be seen. That Marinette really did talk to her parents about picking up an extra shift or two behind the counter. That there’s still room on the bulletin board for him—them. And most times, it is just Mrs. Cheng at the storefront, organizing displays or chatting with a friendly customer.

But sometimes it isn’t. Sometimes it is Marinette, idly staring at the window with what he can only assume is her sketchbook at her side and her apron tied around her waist. And sometimes, she looks up at him. And sometimes, she waves and smiles with all the warmth and none of the sweat of July.

That’s why he does it. For the sometimes.

The flyers, once they’re printed, are nothing short of gorgeous, but Luka can’t bring himself to take any of the credit for it. More than anything, he’s just happy to see his bandmates all in on this, even if he did jump in with both feet. Even if they do still rib him during practice about how he’s way too invested in this. (At least Mylène has only nice things to say. He’ll have to remember to order a few extra pastries just for her.)

They split the flyers into four stacks, because of course Mylène insists on helping and of course Rose and Juleka insist on going together. They run or pedal off in different directions once they’ve put a game plan together, and at least Luka can credit them for not teasing when he offers to take the third and fourth arrondissement. They all know it’s where the bakery is, in spite of how he talks up the Place des Vosges. They know, and they don’t have to say anything.

He’s still trying to figure out whether it’s a blessing or a curse to have your real-life friends on your social media accounts.

Even as he’s hanging the flyers in downtown coffee shops, in libraries, on signposts and public bulletin boards, Luka can’t stop staring. With every flyer he pins or tapes up, he finds something new to love about it. A splash of neon color in the top left corner. The jagged, cutting edges of the lettering. The blurred glow of a spotlight. Every time he looks, he gets the feeling that he’s already there. Music pounding in his ears, stage lights burning so bright and hot they make him sweat, fresh calluses on his fingertips that he’ll regret and adore later. He doesn’t think of stardom often, but he imagines this is something close to it.

At the very least, it’s what he would want to make of it.

It’s close to closing by the time Luka arrives at the bakery-patisserie; the usual lingering smells of fresh bread and sugary frosting and the easygoing music are both conspicuously absent when he walks in. But Mr. Dupain and Ms. Cheng are both missing from the storefront, and he has to double check the time on his phone to make sure he didn’t accidentally arrive too late, or that he’s not interrupting some closing routine. It shouldn’t take long; he spent almost the whole bike ride over rehearsing what he needed to say. He looks around cautiously, even clears his throat in case it gets someone’s attention.

It does. Marinette pops up from behind the counter with a squeak, and it startles him so much he nearly drops the stack of remaining flyers in his arms. And that would’ve been a pain in the ass as much as it would’ve been straight out of one of Rose’s cute romcoms for Marinette to round the counter and help him pick them up until their hands brushed over the same one.

Jesus. He really needs to get out of the house on his sister’s date nights.

He really needs to have a date night.

He also really needs to stop thinking about date nights when the person he’d actually consider a date night with is right in front of—

“Luka?”

He blinks to attention, standing awkwardly in the quiet. God, he really hopes he wasn’t staring at her when he zoned out like that. “Sorry,” he mumbles.

Marinette shrugs it off with an apologetic smile. “We’re fresh out of napoleons, you know,” she says casually, slipping past him to flip the sign on the door. “Guess you’ll just have to come first thing tomorrow morning.”

“Yeah, I guess I will—wait—” He shakes his head. “No, that’s not why I’m here.”

Marinette pauses at that. Even seems to stand a little taller, intrigued. Hopeful? “Oh…? Then why…  are you here?”

Meekly, Luka holds up one of the Kitty Section flyers and nods toward the bulletin board. Here’s hoping he—it— isn’t too much of a disappointment.

Marinette squints at the flyer for a second, and then her eyes widen and spark in delight. She looks… impressed, at least. which isn’t to say she’s never seemed impressed by him before. It just makes all the things he’s been working for a little more worth it. “Wow,” she says. “You really weren’t kidding about being in a band, huh.”

“You know it,” he says with what he prays is a casual shrug; this… wasn’t part of the script. “I don’t wear this thing on my back just to look pretty.”

She stifles a laugh, then claps a hand to her mouth immediately. “Sorry, I didn’t—I wasn’t implying that you’re not handsome—pretty— “

Oh God. She’s stammering. And it’s adorable.

Marinette composes herself with a deep breath and her arms folded over her chest. “There are pushpins in the corner,” she says. “Hang it up wherever you want.”

Except Luka can’t help feeling like she’s got her eyes on him the whole time. Either she’s coming to terms with the fact that he was telling the truth all along, or she’s… judging him. Or the flyer. And honestly, he can’t tell which is worse. “What’s wrong?” he asks once he notices she’s still staring. “Did I put it up at a funny angle or something?”

“No, just… thinking…” Her voice sounds distant, perhaps somewhere he might never find her. But then she snaps her fingers, and she says, “That’s it!”

“Uh.” Luka’s brow furrows. “What’s it?”

“Oh, just… sorry, my thoughts just ran away with me, I guess.” Marinette steps toward the flyer, brushing her fingers over it and wincing. maybe it’s just from the finish; his nails have scraped over then more than once, and it felt just as bad as a chalkboard. “I was just thinking, well…  you’ve been good to my parents and all. Why don’t we help you with promotion? You know, put postcards in the boxes or bags. It couldn’t hurt, could it?”

Luka nearly spotters, but the only thing he can manage to say is, “Where am I gonna get postcards?”

“I can make ‘em.” She says it like the simplest, most obvious thing in the world, and looks him up and down when he falters. “If… you and your band are okay with that, I mean. Cause I, y’know… dabble, in graphic design. But I don’t want to impose, if you’re okay with this. It’s your band and all.”

“I can,” he starts to say; then he stops himself, awkwardly rubbing the back of his neck. “I can ask them?” Idiot, he thinks. That wasn’t supposed to be a question. “I’ll let you know what they say. Have to come in bright and early tomorrow anyway, right?”

Marinette only smiles. It’s faint, almost absentminded, but that sweet little tug at the corner of her mouth is hardly lost on him. “You don’t have to.”

“Ask them?”’

“Come by.” Her bag is hanging on a peg by the register, and she’s off rummaging through it before Luka can ask what she means. He gravitates toward her more than he actually walks to her, and by the time he reaches the counter she’s fishing a card out of her wallet. It’s pink and black, decorated with the same spray of flowers and monogram as her apron. when he turns it over, there’s her name at the top, and below that, two email addresses. And two phone numbers.

He looks up, wide-eyed.

“So,” Marinette says. “Unless you’re coming all this way for a napoleon, a pear tart, and my pretty face, I think you’re good.”

“I—” Luka turns the business card over and over as though it will teach him now to speak again. “I guess so.” Does she know he thinks her face is pretty? Wait—of course she does, he gave her that note. Oh, Jesus, does she still have that thing? It’s been weeks. “Well,” he says, scuffing his heel against the tile. “Who knows. Maybe I’ll come anyway.”

Okay, that was definitely not part of the script.

But then, neither is the way her eyes are sparkling. “Well,” she murmurs. “Maybe you will.”

“I should, uh—” He jerks a thumb toward the door. “Go, um. Happy closing?”

She laughs behind a hand, glancing between him and the tacked-up flyer before she grabs a broom and sends him off with a delicate wave. And to be honest, Luka’s never been angry with nature before, but he curses the wind for being so loud that he can’t hear that giggle in his head, over and over. Almost as much as he thanks it for drowning out all the stupid things he said, and the lingering questions of why she offered at all.

Luka’s Word to the Wise, Part 2:

Progress isn’t linear but it sure as hell doesn’t mean you can’t stutter your way through getting a girl’s number and succeed.

[tabloidtoc]

People, May 10

Cover: Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade

Page 3: Chatter -- Mindy Kaling on technology woes, Amy Adams on wanting to go into acting because of Grease, Gal Gadot on telling her daughters Maya and Alma about her pregnancy, DJ Khaled on using Rihanna's skin-care line, Christie Brinkley on showing off her body on Instagram at age 67, Whoopi Goldberg on writing a superhero movie about an older Black lady

Page 4: 5 Things We're Talking About -- Michael Keaton returns as Batman, Jane Fonda recalls her first and best kiss, Maya Rudolph would give Bridesmaids another go, the stars of ER scrub in one more time, popcorn and donuts team up

Page 7: Contents

Page 8: StarTracks -- one day before Prince William and Princess Kate's youngest child Prince Louis turned 3, Kensington Palace released a new portrait of the little royal to mark the occasion; Kate snapped the photo of Louis, who wore a school uniform and backpack as he rode his bike outside their home in London ahead of his first day of preschool

Page 9: JoJo Siwa and mom Jessalynn went for a roller-coaster ride at Disney's Hollywood studios in Florida, Madonna in a three-piece Gucci suit for dinner at West Hollywood staple Craig's

Page 10: Stars on Set -- Rachel Brosnahan was pretty in pink while filming season 4 of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel with costar Alex Borstein in NYC, John Cena flashed a peace sign when he took a coffee break while filming The Suicide Squad spinoff series Peacemaker in Vancouver, Tika Sumpter and James Marsden shot an action-packed scene for Sonic the Hedgehog 2 in Vancouver

Page 11: Katie Holmes was spotted on a Connecticut set preparing to film the drama The Watergate Girl in which she'll play Watergate prosecutor Jill Wine-Banks, Awkwafina and Bowen Yang filmed the upcoming season of Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens in NYC, Melissa Benoist suited up for Supergirl in Vancouver

Page 12: Brooke Shields who is recovering after breaking her femur in a gym accident walked arm in arm after a lunch with husband Chris Henchy, Britney Spears and boyfriend Sam Asghari posed for a photo before attending a friend's wedding

Page 15: Stars in the Sun -- Maren Morris flaunted her new tan while enjoying a tropical getaway, Simone Biles and boyfriend Jonathan Owens cuddled up during a trip to Florida, Lindsey Vonn caught some waves and some rays while paddleboarding in Tulum, Derek Hough cooled off in the ocean during a beach day in L.A., Brie Larson enjoyed a dip while on vacation in Hawaii

Page 17: Scoop -- Life After Their Split -- how Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez are moving on

Page 18: Inside Caitlyn Jenner's run for governor

Page 20: Heart Monitor -- Tarek El Moussa and Heather Rae Young ready to wed, Pete Davidson and Phoebe Dynevor going public, Zac Efron and Vanessa Valladares split, Billie Eilish and Matthew Tyler Vorce new couple?

Page 23: Jana Kramer and Mike Caussin's messy divorce

* Susannah Constantine -- my royal friendship with Princess Margaret

Page 24: Open House -- French Montana

* Baby Boom -- the latest on Hollywood's growing families -- Marie Kondo and Takumi Kawahara welcomed a son, Nick and Lauren Carter welcomed their third child

Page 27: Ed Helms talks life after The Office

Page 29: Passages, Why I Care -- Lisa Kudrow is working with doctors at UCLA to end the stigma surrounding mental health issues

Page 31: Stories to Make You Smile -- most cats can't stand the water but 8-month-old Marlin can't get enough and his Instagram is @carolinejarvis, a first grader's airplane kits give wings to kids' travel dreams

Page 35: People Picks -- Tom Clancy's Without Remorse

Page 36: Limbo, One to Watch -- Shadow and Bone's Jessie Mei Li

Page 37: Pose, Pet Stars

Page 38: The Handmaid's Tale, Thomas Rhett -- Country Again: Side A, Q&A with Olivia Holt

Page 39: The Mosquito Coast, Inspiring America: The 2021 Inspiration List

Page 41: Books

Page 42: Oscars 2021 -- The Return of Glamour -- the show was unconventional, just 170 guests were allowed in L.A.'s Union Station, and COVID restrictions were strictly enforced, but stars did their part to bring back some movie magic

Page 43: Andra Day

Page 44: Fabulous Fashion -- crop tops, ball gowns and bows ruled the red carpet -- Angela Bassett, Zendaya, Carey Mulligan, Maria Bakalova

Page 45: Margot Robbie, Reese Witherspoon, Viola Davis, Amanda Seyfried

Page 46: Behind the Scenes -- Regina King -- the actress closed out awards season in a custom Louis Vuitton creation

Page 48: Shine Bright -- there's no such thing as too much bling -- Laura Pausini, Vanessa Kirby, Zendaya

Page 49: Maria Bakalova, Daniel Kaluuya, Glenn Close, Tiara Thomas

Page 50: Very Well Suited -- these sharp dressers put their own twists on the tuxedo -- Lakeith Stanfield, Colman Domingo, Paul Raci, Tyler Perry, Sacha Baron Cohen, Alan Kim

Page 53: Getting Ready with Andra Day

Page 55: Getting Ready with Angela Bassett

Page 56: Romance on the Red Carpet -- these couples only had eyes for each other -- Sacha Baron Cohen and Isla Fisher, Halle Berry and Van Hunt, Chloe Zhao and Joshua James Richards, Riz Ahmed and Fatima Farheen Mirza

Page 57: Steven Yeun and Joana Pak, Leslie Odom Jr. and Nicolette Robinson, Paul Raci and Liz Hanley Raci, Aaron Sorkin and Paulina Porizkova

Page 58: Best in Show -- there were A-list stars, groundbreaking moments and social distancing as Hollywood gathered safely to honor the best movies of the year -- Reese Witherspoon

Page 61: Alan Kim, Angela Bassett, Rita Moreno

Page 62: Major Moments -- these artists broke barriers during the most historic ceremony ever -- Emerald Fennell, Chloe Zhao, Daniel Kaluuya

Page 63: H.E.R., Anthony Hopkins, Yuh-Jung Youn with Brad Pitt, Mia Neal

Page 65: Yuh-Jung Youn and Daniel Kaluuya and Frances McDormand, Elton John and Dua Lipa, Andra Day and Winnie Harlow

Page 66: Cover Story -- Dwyane Wade and Gabrielle Union -- Dream Team -- the actress and NBA champ open up about protecting their family, fighting for what's right and why they're stronger than ever

Page 72: George Floyd's Killer Found Guilty -- We Can Breathe Again -- friends and family of the Minneapolis man killed by police rejoice after a jury's verdict and vow with supporters to keep fighting systemic racism

Page 76: Bethenny Frankel -- what I know now -- the irrepressible former Real Housewives star and businesswoman is newly engaged and back as a boss with a new show

Page 80: A Son Lost to Suicide, A Father's Mission -- we loved him every day, but it wasn't enough -- after the shocking death of his 12-year-old son, Brad Hunstable has a message for parents: talk to your kids about suicide

Page 84: Andrew McCarthy -- I was never suited for fame -- the beloved actor, and author of a new memoir, looks back on his enduring films, surviving his '80s stardom and how his affiliation with the so-called Brat Pack was a mixed blessing

Page 88: Prince William and Duchess Kate Middleton's 10-year anniversary -- remembering the big day -- those who made the wedding a fairy tale share their memories

Page 92: Country Singer Thomas Rhett -- fame, family and finding my way -- the star opens up about overcoming struggled with his wife Lauren in their 8-year-marriage and learning to put their family first

Page 98: Murdered Soldier Vanessa Guillen's Fiance -- every day I pray for justice -- a year after losing the love of his life, Juan Cruz is determined to make sure the Army specialist's legacy is never forgotten and that her tragic death inspires lasting change

Page 102: George W. Bush -- painting with a purpose -- the former president avoided making waves, until his party's nativist prompted him to use his art to celebrate immigrants

Page 106: Pop Star Julia Michaels -- how I learned to love myself -- the singer talks falling in love, managing anxiety and writing hits for Britney Spears and Selena Gomez

Page 116: One Last Thing -- Josh Duhamel

[yourwannabekpopidol]

Project 15

Apprenticeship Program Name: Radio Campbuzz Project Name: RJ for Rangdhonu and script writer for shows Program Date: Fall 2017 – Fall 2018 Program Description: I joined this program when Kashfia Ma’am was the advisor for the program. She assigned me to a RJ position for a weekly show called, “Rangdhonu”. And I had to write the script for the show as well. What I had to do was be a host for the show and the show is about pop culture and entertainment. So we had to talk about any new update on Hollywood and Bollywood. Program Justification: What the show provided was to let the students know about any pop culture and to let them enjoy some entertainment before going back to class. There were other shows but this show made me realize how fun it is to be a RJ. Due to this show, I was even awarded the best RJ in Radio Campbuzz of Spring 2018. Program Name: Rangdhonu. Program Time: Every Wednesday from 12 pm to 1 pm.

Picture 1: This is me before the show of Rangdhonu at the station.

Picture 2: This is the poster that declared that Nabeela apu and I were the host of the show, Rangdhonu, on social media.

Picture 3: This was the award and the certificate of me winning the best RJ.

Script for the 5th Rangdhonu show: Written by: Wangkhem Thonglen

Link 1

Sonam Kapoor ties the knot! Celebrity marriages are always the talk of the town, especially when it is the much-awaited wedding of one of Bollywood's most beloved stars, Sonam Kapoor. In an event of grand celebrations, Sonam Kapoor has finally tied the knot last Tuesday, May 8, with her long-time boyfriend Anand Ahuja. For those who don't know, Anand Ahuja is a businessman who has founded his own fashion brand named Bhane. His Delhi-based business has made him quite successful despite his young age, and fans know him well for always being addressed fondly in Sonam's online posts. The couple is active on social media, and has never failed to win hearts through their messages of adoration and love. Radio Cambuzz wishes the couple a happy conjugal life!

SaRa May 12 marked the grand opening of SaRa's first showroom in Mirpur. The fashion house made a huge statement with endorsements from stars like Sara Zaker, Oyshee, Shahtaj, Pritom, Xefer, Azim, Doyel and many others. They were present during the opening, along with the owner S.M Khaled.

RABINDRA FESTIVALS AROUND THE COUNTRY The celebration of 157th birth anniversary of Tagore in Shilpakala Academy, Dhaka. Artistes performed in a programme by Jayita Rabindra Sangeet Shomillon Porishod in Mymensingh. Artistes did a cultural show in Rabindra Mela, Channel i premises, Dhaka. Artistes from Bangladesh and India performed in Rabindra Festival in Shelaidah Kuthibari, Kushtia. Also Sirajganj.

30 years of BAMBA - More than just bands After a break of almost four years, Bangladesh Musical Bands Association, better known as BAMBA, recently arranged a mega concert, 'BAMBA Live Chapter 1', in Dhaka. The turnout was huge, with the spacious hall room of the International Convention Centre, Bashundhara, filled to the brim with fans eager to get a glimpse of their favorite bands and listen to their all-time hits. 11 of the 27 bands under the umbrella of BAMBA, including Warfaze, Miles, Shunno, Aurthohin, Nemesis, Vikings, Feedback, Dalchhut, Maq O' Dhaka, Pentagon and Arbovirus performed at the concert. Star Showbiz recently invited BAMBA to participate at a roundtable discussion at The Daily Star Centre. Hamin Ahmed, President of BAMBA; Sheikh Monirul Alam Tipu, General Secretary; Fuad Naser Babu, Vice President; Maqsoodul Haque (Mac), Executive Committee Member; Mohammad Ali Shumon, Treasurer; and Doza Alan, CEO, SkyTracker Limited, took part in the roundtable discussion. It was facilitated by Star Showbiz Editor Rafi Hossain. The discussion focused on BAMBA's current activities and the way forward in the face of the challenges confronting our music industry.

Link 2

Zoe Saldana on the Hollywood Walk of Fame After smashing success as the alien warrior Gamora in the Guardians of the Galaxy films and more recently, Avengers: Infinity War, Zoe Saldana is on a path to eternal stardom, literally. She joins the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin and her co-actor Chris Pratt, by receiving her very own star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Zoe Saldana took to Instagram to express her gratitude, saying she is blessed and honored to be a part of the history of Hollywood. “May this open more doors for Latinx and all other under-represented community!” she further stated. Zoe Saldana has also appeared in James Cameron's 2009 film Avatar and the recent Star Trek trilogy. Being a constant presence in blockbuster sci-fi and fantasy films, Zoe Saldana is expected to become a top name in this specific genre quite soon. 2018 71st Cannes Film Festival From Tuesday May 8th til Saturday May 19th. Australian actress Cate Blanchett has been named as the President of the Jury. Asghar Farhadi's psychological thriller Everybody Knows, starring Javier Bardem, Penélope Cruz and Ricardo Darín, opened the festival and competes in the Main Competition section The Han Solo spinoff Solo: A Star Wars Story touched down Tuesday at the Cannes Film Festival, bringing its cast and a full-sized Chewbacca to the French Riviera extravaganza. Director Ron Howard, wearing a hat that read “A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away,” introduced his cast before the film’s international premiere at Cannes. Sonam Kapoor wows at the red carpet of Cannes Film Festival 2018. Bollywood superstar Aishwarya Rai Bachchan once again stole the show as she walked the prestigious red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival, this time in a stunning ultra-violet, blue and red gown that reflected the metamorphosis of a butterfly. History was made at this year's 71st  Cannes Film Festival on Saturday as 82 women, representing the limited number of women filmmakers selected over its more than seven-decade history, made a symbolic walk up the red carpet. The stars, filmmakers and other professionals ascended the steps of the Palais des Festivals at the Cannes Film Festival, protesting for the solidarity of the women in the industry who are struggling for a voice, equal pay, as well as a safer work place. The five female members of this year's Cannes jury-- Cate Blanchett, Kristen Stewart, Ava DuVernay, Lea Seydoux and Burundian singer Khadja Nin, along with Jane Fonda, Salma Hayek and Marion Cotillard were among the group of women.

Link 3 Mim Mantasha Superstar in the making Winning the country's biggest pageant is not an ordinary feat. Mim Mantasha has won not just a crown, but also the hearts of millions. Awaiting a new journey, the Lux Channel i Superstar 2018 winner shares her story with The Daily Star. A final year student of Fine Arts at Jahangirnagar University, Mim has always been a creative and curious soul. She was an avid follower of the contest for a long time. This year, she finally took the decision to compete. Taking part in the competition was certainly not a cakewalk. “We went through vigorous training sessions. We did yoga in the mornings,” explains Mim.  Before the task rounds, the contestants went through fifteen days of training for ramp walk, acting, dancing, and many other skills. The photo shoots, acting, and improvisation rounds were Mim's favourite tasks in the competition. “I was nervous but in a scene, I got to convince people through my acting that my child was lost. I enjoyed it,” Mim smiles, adding that the competition was an overall memorable experience. Although she is highly enthusiastic about working in the media, she wants to take more preparations before doing so. She is now Lux Bangladesh's brand ambassador and has also won the opportunity to work on television and feature film projects of Impress Telefilm. Before hitting the silver screen, Mim wants to explore the world of television. Being a painter at heart, Mim also wants to continue painting and have her own exhibition in the future. Further to this, she intends to work for children who need special care. “I am in a fortunate position and it is our duty to take care of those in need.” says Mim. With great intentions, we hope Mim Mantasha excels at every step of her future endevours.

Link 4

Avengers Infinity War Review The plot itself is pretty simple. There are six stones that possess mystic powers and he/she who possesses all the stones is by default the most powerful being in the universe. Our Marvel superheroes must forget their own conflicts and join forces against Thanos to restore the fate of the universe and its inhabitants. Of course, watch the movie to know how things pan out. Avengers: Infinity War is the movie of movies, and let me tell you why. Most, if not all, the characters of the MCU are present in this film and bring their own flavour into the mix. Thor is mourning the loss of his home and hammer, Stark feels he needs to take a break from saving the world, Captain America is still out to bring justice the right way, and Hulk has no control over himself. I don't know what formula the Russo brothers have applied in their direction but I watched in awe how all the characters blended to deliver multiple storylines within a movie. Yes, I have also compared this movie to a mega three-hour episode of your daily soap opera. Avengers: Infinity War is the comprehensive Marvel movie; it is the beginning of an end. It lifts you, it hits you, and leaves you with a cliffhanger extraordinaire. See it to believe it and it'll still be unbelievable. By next weekend, Infinity War will top $1.78 billion and could sit around $1.8 billion, ensuring Marvel's year-to-date tally exceeds $3.1 billion by next Sunday.

Deadpool 2 Marketing Right off the bat, you see how Deadpool has scratched out the 20th Century Fox logo and put “TBD,” which is a sly allusion to the ongoing Disney/Fox (and Comcast?) merger drama. The content of the letter is exactly what you might expect from the Merc with a Mouth. Pop culture references, silly puns, bad language, and Ryan Reynolds bashing. Then, at the bottom, instead of the #ThanosDemandsYourSilence, we get #WadeWilsonDemandsYourSisterSorryStupidAutoCorrectSilence. See, you guys, it’s funny! And not at all trying too hard. Kidding aside, the marketing for “Deadpool 2” has been pretty top notch, but perhaps not as great as the first film. Recently, the film premiered a music video for the soundtrack featuring Celine Dion singing an over-the-top ballad while a high-heel-wearing Deadpool does an interpretive dance around the diva. It’s ridiculous and fun. And also, the most recent trailer seems to have struck a chord with fans, who are coming down off their ‘Infinity War’ high.

Link 5

Top 10 Hollywood Box Office Weekend 1. Avengers: Infinity War - $62,078,047 (Total Grossing – $548,090,150) 2. Life of the Party - $17,886,075 (New) 3. Breaking In - $17,630,285 (New) 4. Overboard - $9,864,415 5. A Quiet Place - $6,455,396 (Total Grossing - $169,608,030) 6. I Feel Pretty - $3,805,437 7. Rampage - $3,462,442 (Total Grossing - $89,827,105) 8. Tully - $2,248,945 9. Black Panther -  $2,077,207 (Total Grossing - $696,331,818) 10. RBG - $1,188,186

Billboard’s top 10 Hits 1. This Is America – Childish Gambino (New) 2. Nice For What – Drake (Last Week: 1) 3. God’s Plan – Drake 4. Psycho – Post Malone Featuring Ty Dolla $ign (Last Week: 2) 5. Meant To Be – Bebe Rexha & Florida Georgia Line 6. The Middle – Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey 7. Look Alive – BlocBoy JB Featuring Drake 8. Never Be The Same – Camila Cabello 9. Perfect – Ed Sheeran (Last Week: 12) 10. No Tears Left To Cry – Ariana Grande Learning and reflections: This program made me realize the inner potential I had to be so extrovert and be a good host. I learned what to do or say after getting stuck during a live session. I have improved my speaking skills and the flow of a RJ host on how to talk and say because they have a different tone when it comes to a live session. I have taken all these skills from this program and I even got selected and did a short commercial video for Spice FM Radio. I also learned how to write a script for a radio show.