#body positivity exclusive for the celebrities only

[sobanooodles]

geez, i really want to wear shorts when i go outside. but are the world's judging eyes prepared to see the stretch marks on the backs of my big thighs?

[pinksturniolo]

Switch - Chris and Matt Sturniolo (Part Two)

Chris x Matt and Fem Reader

Summary: Cherry Bomb - The largest underground BDSM club in Los Angeles, California. Its member list is extremely exclusive, only granting access to celebrities, influencers and the filthy rich. No one really cares who you are or what you do, they come for one thing and one thing only. Whatever happens at the Cherry stays at the Cherry….

Content warnings: smut, oral, fingering, protected sex, bondage, use of sex toys, spanking, teasing, threesome

this story has heavy themes and descriptions of bdsm, so if you’re not comfortable with that pls don’t read <3

word count: 2,909

“What do you think Matt? Think she deserves to cum?”

“Give her what she wants.” He replies, and you almost moan at his words.

Chris tucks himself back into his boxers and removes his shirt before standing up and flipping you around so he can lay you face down on the bed, towards the middle.

He positions you in the way he wants, his hand pulling your hips up, so your back arches and your ass sits in the air. He spreads your legs slightly and then you feel his belt wrap around the middle of your thighs, squishing them tightly together, making it hard for you to move.  

He runs his hand teasingly down the back of your thighs, and then yanks down your soaked panties, the cool air hitting you. You shiver and grip onto the blanket under you, turning your head, your face smushed against the sheets, to set your gaze back on Matt.

His hair is disheveled, from running his hand through it several times, a bead of sweat shining on his forehead, as he's still holding himself through his boxers, his dick throbbing from the way your body looks arched on the bed. He keeps his eyes on you, lust consuming him.

The sight of Matt touching himself and the feeling of Chris’s fingers now parting your folds from behind has arousal coursing through your veins.

Chris blows cool air on your heat, making you whimper. He runs one finger along you again, playing in your slickness. He kisses your ass cheek, running his tongue along your skin. Biting into your flesh softly, his finger still teasing you. He does this for a few minutes, torturing you.

You can’t take it anymore and buck your hips against his hand, a whine escaping your throat. “Pleaseee…”

He hums, moving his head down to place soft kisses on your inner thighs. “What’s that, princess? I can’t hear you.” He replies.

You sigh, frustration building from his teasing. “Please, Chris. Please, I’ve been good. I need you.” You say, wiggling your hips again.

He slaps your inner thigh to get you to stay still, gripping your hip in his other hand.

“You hear that, Matt? Such a needy little slut.” Chris says, not bothering to look at Matt, because his eyes are transfixed on your dripping pussy, his hand spreading your cheeks further as he runs two fingers down to your clit, applying pressure on the bundle of nerves.

You moan loudly, Chris wrapping an arm around your thigh so his fingers can rest on your clit, making circles, as sparks of pleasure crackle through you. You then feel his warm tongue against your hole, licking at your wetness until he pushes it in and out a few times.

You’re trying to stay still but are failing as you move your hips against his hand and face, the restriction of the belt putting you in a tight position.

“Oh my god…” You moan out, and you can hear Matt’s panting from across the room and see his hand moving a little faster over his bulge, the veins in his neck straining, still looking into your eyes.

The fact that he’s getting off to your pleasure, pushes you closer to your orgasm as you feel yourself clench around Chris’s tongue.

“Chris…” You whimper, his breath coming out rapidly against you as he responds. “Yes, princess?”

Before you can reply he pushes two fingers deep inside you, curling against your g spot and your eyes roll back into your head. You can’t stop moaning as he thrusts them into you roughly, smacking your ass again.

He leans down over you, rasping into your ear. “You were saying something?”

You’re barely able to talk as you feel your release rapidly approaching, the coil inside you threatening to unravel. His fingers continue to slip in and out of you, as he’s pressed against you, his dick still rock hard in his boxers, puffing hot breaths on your neck.

“Please… I’m gonna cum.” You manage to say, your voice strained. You can tell Matt is losing his self control from the way his chest is heaving and the way he’s rubbing himself over his boxers.

But then his movements stop when you say that, and he looks you straight in the eyes, his face cold.

“You’re not cumming until I say so.” He says and your heart drops as Chris suddenly removes his fingers from inside you, getting off the bed completely.

You almost cry from the feeling of emptiness, the sweet release that’s been ripped from your grasp. You hear Chris chuckle as he removes his belt from your thighs and your legs collapse, as you stay face down on the sheets.

You look at Matt with a pathetic gaze in your eyes, not saying a word. His face is still expressionless, and he’s already zipped his jeans back up, his hands crossed as they rest on his stomach.

For a moment there, it seemed he was giving into the pleasure, watching you lose yourself on Chris’s hands and tongue and you were starting to get extremely irritated with all the teasing. You needed him badly, you wanted him close to you. To touch you. To please you.

But he was being fucking mean, and you hated it. Yet, it turned you on more than you cared to admit.

“Turn around.” You hear Chris say and you do as you’re told. You see him retrieve a rope from the cabinet on the other side of the room and there’s something else in his hand, but you can’t really tell what it is. Until he walks back over to the bed and your legs tremble with a mix of fear and anticipation.

It’s a pretty pink vibrator wand and this one is remote controlled. You look back at Matt now and honestly you should’ve seen this coming, but you’re not surprised. He holds the small remote in his hand, and he can’t help the smirk from appearing on his lips when he notices you see it.

Chris sets the vibrator on the bed next to you and then forcefully moves you up a little higher, your head resting against the pillows and brings both of your wrists above your head to tie them with the rope to the metal headboard.

He then removes your bra and panties, his eyes full of hunger, and places wet kisses all over your breasts, sucking on your nipples that only gets you panting again.

He sits up between your legs, spreading them open wide and takes himself out of his boxers, rolling a condom on and lining himself up with your entrance. Your breathing is shallow as he rubs his tip up and down a few times, bumping against your clit.

His hands are on your hips and he watches as he pushes himself slowly inside you, a slight burn as you adjust to his size. His eyes flick up to you as you inhale sharply, your fingers tugging on the rope.

“You can take it baby.” He mutters, pushing himself to the hilt, and places a hand on your lower abdomen to feel how deep he is. “Feel me in your tummy, princess?”

The way Chris talks almost sends you over the edge again and you whine loudly, struggling to move your hips in the death grip he has on you.

“I know, sweetheart. Hurts, doesn’t it?” He responds to your needy whimpers, starting to thrust his hips against you in an agonizingly slow pace. You simply nod your head, your eyes rolling back at how good he feels inside you.

“Don’t worry, Daddy’s gonna make it better. Just be a good girl for me, yeah?”

“Yes…”

“Yes what?” He digs his fingertips harder into you, now thrusting faster, your tits bouncing.

“Yes, Daddy.”

Chris smirks at this, adoring the look of pure bliss on your face as you throw your head back, your wrists straining against the rope he tied them with. To be quite honest, he’s wanted to make you scream his name and have you cum whatever way you wanted since you walked into the red room, and he laid his eyes on you.

But Matt was the one who was really in charge here, and his plans for tonight were different. Nevertheless, he really enjoys how submissive you are and the way you’ll obey any word that comes out of his or Matt’s mouth. He’s almost jealous of the fact that Matt has had you so many times before him, and he’s starting to become addicted to the way your body feels on his hands, his cock… his mouth. He could spend hours just making you his.

And now, Chris is practically fucking the words out of you as there’s nothing left in your vocabulary, except moans and whimpers of his name, begging and pleading with him to help you get the release you so desperately need.

“What’s that? I can’t hear you.” Matt says, demanding your attention back on him, hearing the little cries you make. You turn your head to look at him, your vision blurred from the pleasure.

“Matt… pleaseee. I-I wanna cum.” You tell him.

“Mm, just a little longer, princess. I think you need to learn your lesson.” He says, referring to the smart comment you made earlier.

Chris takes this as initiative to grab the vibrator and place it on your clit, earning a loud gasp from you as Matt suddenly switches it on the lowest setting.

You cry out loudly, the feeling overwhelming as Chris continues his pace, groaning when you clench around him.

Before you can even say anything, Matt turns the setting up higher, and tears stream down your face from the intensity. It feels insanely good but almost hurts too much. “Fuck, Matt! Please- I can’t.. can’t take it.” You pant, your body shaking and Chris doesn’t stop, his own resolve starting to crumble as his thrusts become sloppy.

“You wanna cum baby?” Matt says.

“Yes! Please, please, plea-“

“Go ahead. You’ve been so good, you can cum princess.”

He’s barely getting the last word of his sentence out before you orgasm, a warm gush releasing as you squirt all over Chris, who’s own orgasm has hit as well, his head thrown back, the muscles in his neck and arms straining. He helps your ride through it and your whole body feels as if it’s on fire.

“Fuck. You feel so fucking good…” He pants, staying in you for a few seconds before pulling out. You’re absolutely exhausted and your wrists are burning, your legs still shaking as Chris places a kiss on your stomach sweetly and then climbs off the bed to discard the condom and vibrator.

You’re still catching your breath when Matt finally gets up from the chair and walks over to you, untying the rope from above you. He rubs soothingly on your wrists and brings them down, smoothing your hair back from your head and placing a kiss on your forehead.

“You did so good, princess. I know you have one more in you and I want it to be when I'm inside you. Can you take it?” He asks and you would be a fool to say no.

“Yes, Matt.”

“That’s my girl.” He praises, his voice deep and sultry, his eyes admiring your face for a few seconds before he gives his next command.

“Unzip my jeans.”

You swallow and move your trembling hands to his crotch, that’s now eye level with you. You unzip him, his black boxers underneath and see the outline of his thick, hard cock just aching to be touched, a wet spot from the precum that leaks from his tip. Your mouth waters as you look up at him and pull the jeans down his hips and off his legs.

His jaw is clenched, his eyes full of nothing but lust for you as he looks back down at you.

You’re a mess, your hair wild and fluffy, mascara-streaked tears drying on your cheeks and red, swollen lips from biting down so hard. But he thinks you’re nothing less than beautiful and his ego swells with pride because he knows that he’ll be the one to pull your last orgasm from you, that he was the one you needed permission from, not Chris.

“And my shirt?” Matt continues, an eyebrow raised, and you get up on your knees to pull his white t shirt over his head, his muscles rippling and flexing from the cool air as you toss it to the floor.

Chris watches from the end of the bed, still mesmerized with the way Matt controls you.

“Good girl…” Matt mumbles, giving you a slow, but warm kiss on your lips, causing butterflies in your stomach again and then he shoves you down before you can really get into his sweet kiss, giving him a disappointed look as you fall to the bed.

“Don’t pout... I’m gonna make you feel good, baby.” He says and turns you around so you’re on all fours again, his strong hands holding your ass up for him and pushing your shoulders down so you’re in the same position you were for Chris.

But this time Matt is behind you and Chris is sitting on the bed in front of you, your face coming to rest on his thigh as he moves close to you. He strokes his hand over your jaw, gathering your hair in his other hand when you feel Matt stroke his tip through your wet folds.

“You’ve enjoyed this haven’t you? Letting us use your body however we want…” Matt pants, his words making your heart race and your pussy throb as he continues to tease you, pushing his tip against your hole but not entering you.

You whine desperately, your tongue sticking out to slide over the side of Chris’ cock, and smush your wet lips against it. He groans, his jaw slacking open as he watches you, your little moans vibrating through him. He wasn’t gonna last long with the way you were slobbering on him.

“Answer me.” Matt demands now, smacking his palm on your ass cheek harshly. You jolt forwards, gripping onto Chris’s thighs.

He smacks you again when you don’t answer right away, making you cry out. “Yes!”

He rubs both his hands on your ass soothingly, his dick still rubbing against your wet core. “You know who you belong to right?” He says, dominance in his voice.

“Yes, Matt.”

“Who does this pussy belong to you?” and he slides into you halfway, only to pull out and slap you on the ass again.

You moan loudly, his teasing unbearable. “You, Matt. I belong to you.” You want nothing more than to feel him inside you again, as you wrap your lips around Chris.

Chris grips your hair tighter in his hand, easing his cock further into your mouth. “Shit, that’s not what you were saying when you were moaning my name earlier, pretty baby.”

Jesus Christ. How the fuck did you get so lucky to have these two men battle for dominance over you?

Matt’s response is to shove his cock into you, his hips against yours, burying himself as deep as he can go. You whimper, Chris now hitting the back of your throat.

He doesn’t wait for you to adjust, doesn’t take it easy on you, as Matt slams into you over and over, skin clapping against skin, and it feels so damn good you think you might just pass out.

You manage to keep your head bobbing on Chris, his hands still holding your hair as you suck him off the best you can, Matt fucking you from behind.

“Fuck, baby, you’re soaking wet…”

“You’re such a good girl…”

“Look how good you take me…”

“Let me see those pretty eyes…”

The praises coming left and right from both Matt and Chris have you in heaven, leaking down Matt’s cock and your saliva drooling over Chris’s. Your moans are nonstop, feeling yourself near another orgasm. And you're not the only one.

Chris is throbbing, his hips bucking as his fingers tangle in your hair, moaning your name as he spurts hot thick streams down your throat. You swallow every drop, and pull away, swirling your tongue around his tip as he trembles with pleasure, his head thrown back.

Your voice is strained as you moan Matt’s name, his cock stroking your walls. It’s his turn to pull your hair now, and he does harshly, tears stinging your eyes. He watches your face as you unravel beneath him, clenching around him tightly, your arousal coating him.

He groans loudly, pulling out before he can release inside you, painting white streams over your ass and lower back.

The three of you are a hot, panting mess, sweat mixed with your wetness all over your bodies.

After a few minutes, Chris gets up to grab a wet towel for you, but Matt stops him with a simple, “I’ll get it for her.”

So instead, Chris takes this opportunity to brush your hair back from your face gently and wipe the tears from your cheeks. You smile tiredly at him, holding his hand on your face.

Matt watches with jealousy as he wets the towel and then comes back to the bed, pulling you from Chris and into his arms so he can clean you up.

Aftercare is arguably the most important part of each session, and they do nothing but make you feel at ease while you rest, whispering how proud they are of you.

It’s incredibly sweet but you can’t help and notice the constant battle they have for your attention, and you know now that this experience is only your first of many with them at Cherry Bomb.

a/n: sooo i’m definitely gonna write a lil blurb for this one day about subby matt and chris, can we all agree how hot that would be 👀🤭

thank you so much for 300+ followers!!! i love each and every single one of you and i appreciate everyone who interacts i think it’s so cool and pls don’t hesitate to send messages if you want!!

taglist <3:

@sturniolopepsi @tillies33ssss @whicked-hazlatwhore @riasturns @christhopersturniolo @junnniiieee07 @sturnsjtop @seahorsie11 @inveigledvex @honestlyjb @mattslolita @certifiednatelover @glassesmattsbae @eryismum @sturncakez @sturniololoco @wh0resstuff @sturnlova @sturnioloco @mattsturniololoverr @raysmayhem-72 @mattscoquette @6ix9inewiturmom @mattsleftnipple03 (some users are on permanent tag list and some are just for this story so lmk if anyone wants to change or be taken off 🩷)

[reasonsforhope]

"Five people have gone into remission thanks to advancements in medicine — and a sixth patient may also now be free of HIV.

One of the biggest breakthroughs in HIV/AIDS prevention in recent years is the widespread use of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis). 

This drug therapy, approved by the Federal Drug Administration in 2012, has been a key player in preventing HIV transmission through sex or injection drug use. Antiretroviral drugs, such as PrEP, also slow the replication of the virus and prevent it from progressing to AIDS.

Although PrEP has become a more accessible treatment for the virus, scientists have been hurriedly working towards cures for HIV for decades — and we’re finally seeing some results.

In February of this year, scientists in Germany confirmed a fifth-ever patient had been cured of HIV after receiving stem cell transplants that include genetic mutations that carry a resistance to HIV. 

But it looks like a sixth patient may soon be able to join this very exclusive club. 

The man, referred to as the “Geneva patient,” underwent a stem cell transplant after cancer treatment, though these cells did not include the HIV-resistant genetic mutation. 

Still, he went off antiretroviral therapy for HIV in November 2021, and his viral load remains undetectable. 

Instead, doctors are researching whether a drug called ruxolitinib may be partially responsible for his recovery. 

Ruxolitinib decreases inflammation associated with HIV by blocking two proteins, JAK1 and JAK2. This helps kill off “reservoir cells” that lay dormant in the body and have a potential to cause rebounds in patients with HIV.

Experts say the AIDS crisis can end by 2030 across the globe — as long as leaders prioritize this goal. 

A new report from UNAIDS shows a clear, optimistic path to ending the AIDS crisis. (This looks like a 90% reduction in cases by 2030.)

The organization’s report includes data and case studies that show that ending AIDS is a political and financial choice — and that governments that have prioritized a path towards progress are seeing extraordinary results.

By following the data, science, and evidence; tackling inequality; and ensuring sufficient and sustainable funding across communities, the global community could wipe out the AIDS pandemic by the end of the decade.

The report demonstrates that progress has been strongest in the countries and regions that have the most financial investments, like eastern and southern Africa, where new HIV infections have been reduced by 57% since 2010. 

Investments in treatments, education, and access to care have also led to a 58% reduction in new HIV infections among children from 2010 to 2022 — the lowest number since the 1980’s.

Plus, the number of people on antiretroviral treatment around the globe has risen from 7.7 million in 2010 to 29.8 million in 2022.

The moral of the story? This goal can be achieved, if world leaders put their minds — and wallets — to it. 

A region in Australia might be the first place in the world to reach the United Nations targets for ending HIV transmission. 

Researchers believe that the central district of Sydney, Australia is close to becoming the first locality in the world to reach the UN’s target for ending transmission of HIV. 

Specifically, new infections among gay men have fallen by 88% between 2010 and 2022. In fact, there were only 11 new HIV cases recorded in central Sydney last year, and almost all HIV-positive Australians are on antiretroviral drugs. 

... "These numbers show us that virtual elimination of HIV transmissions is possible. Now, we need to look closely at what has worked in Sydney, and adapt it for other cities and regions across Australia.”

Namibia is ahead of schedule in UN targets to end HIV/AIDS. 

Although the virus is still the leading cause of death in Namibia, the country is well on track to hit 95-95-95 UNAIDS targets before its 2030 deadline. 

In Namibia, 92% of people know their HIV status, 99% of people living with HIV are on treatment, and 94% of people living with HIV who are on treatment are virally suppressed.

In addition to these exciting statistics, new infections have plummeted. The estimated rate of new HIV infections in Namibia is five times lower than it was in 2002, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.

These encouraging numbers are thanks to the investment and strategic response of PEPFAR, but also to the willingness of local governmental agencies and organizations to adhere to the UN’s Fast-Track approach.

Breakthroughs are being made in HIV vaccine therapies.

Long before we were all asking each other “Pfizer or Moderna?” about our COVID-19 vaccines, scientists have been researching the potential of mRNA vaccines in treating some of the world’s deadliest diseases — like HIV.

And with the success of our mainstream mRNA vaccines, an HIV inoculation remains a goal for researchers across the globe.

Last year, the National Institutes of Health launched a clinical trial of three mRNA vaccines for HIV, and similar studies are being conducted in Rwanda and South Africa, as well. 

CAR T-cell clinical trials are underway to potentially cure HIV.

This spring, UC Davis Health researchers have dosed the second participant in their clinical trial, which poses the use of CAR T-cell therapy as a potential cure for HIV.

The study involves taking a participant’s own white blood cells (called T-cells), and modifying them so they can identify and target HIV cells, ultimately controlling the virus without medication. 

The first participant in the study was dosed with anti-HIV T-cells last August, and the trial is the first of its kind to utilize this technology to potentially treat HIV. 

Of course, the trials have a long way to go, and the lab is still preparing to dose a third participant for the study, but CAR T-cell treatments have been successful for lupus and forms of cancer in the past...

“So far, there have been no adverse events observed that were related to the treatment, and the two participants are doing fine.”

Guidance on how to reduce stigma and discrimination due to HIV/AIDS is reaching people around the globe.

While the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS has significantly decreased — especially towards the LGBTQ+ community — with advancements in treatment and prevention, discrimination is certainly not gone. 

While most people now understand HIV/AIDS better than they did decades ago, those most impacted by the virus (like gay men and low-income women and children) still face ongoing barriers to care and economic security. 

It is vital to maintain awareness and education interventions. 

After all, experts suggest that eliminating discrimination and stigma are key factors in reducing disease.  And not eliminating stigma impedes HIV services, argues UNAIDS, “limiting access to and acceptance of prevention services, engagement in care, and adherence to antiretroviral therapy.” 

Luckily, UNAIDS provides guidance on how to reduce stigma and discrimination in the community, workplace, education, health care, justice, and emergency settings. 

The goal is to, of course, decrease stigma in order to decrease disease, but also to provide folks with the culturally significant support they need to live safe, integrated lives — with or without disease. 

For instance, a 2022 study conducted in Northern Uganda showed that local cultural knowledge passed through Elders was a successful intervention in reducing HIV-related stigma among young people.

“Research in school settings has shown that the use of local cultural stories, songs, myths, riddles, and proverbs increases resilient coping responses among students and strengthens positive and socially accepted morals and values,” the study’s discussion reads. 

So, while an uptick in acceptance gives us hope, it also gives us a directive: Keep telling the accurate, full, and human stories behind HIV/AIDS, and we’ll all be better for it. "

-via GoodGoodGood, August 3, 2023

[americasass81]

Back To Nature

Warnings 18+ for the following:- Pretty much nothing but actual fluff as far as I cat tell.  Any sexual encounters are merely hinted at.  Seriously do not read if any of this upsets you, the warnings are there for a reason. Feedback is welcomed and any mistakes are my own.

By proceeding you are acknowledging that you are over 18 and are consenting to the content below the cut.

Author’s Note 1:- This was written especially for @navybrat817 who celebrates her birthday today.  Hope this brings a smile to your face Navy.  I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this type of gift than you.  Have a wonderful day love.

Author’s Note 2:- [Text Message]

Author’s Note 3:- As always, all images have been found through google search.

Synopsis:- Who knew being gifted a weekend away would turn out to be the birthday treat that would change your life for the better?

Pairings:- soft!Bucky Barnes x Female Reader

Word Count:- 3,053

Rolling over in bed as the morning light broke through another blissful night, you knew one thing deep in your bones ... you didn't want to get up.  Now it wasn't that you were depressed or anything serious like that, you had simply had enough damn it.  Work days spent shouldering the majority of the tasks as colleagues commended you on the fabulous job you were doing while never quite doing their own share in return, had finally taken its toll.

And that was before you started dwelling on your personal life.

Guaranteed four weeks vacation time a year from work, there always seemed to be some crisis or emergency that only you could fix and so dates dwindled down to nothing and nights out with your girlfriends seemed to have you leaving the venue early just to get a few decent hours kip before the week began again.

So when then was it going to be your turn?  When would you be able to let your hair down, kick your feet up and just say to hell with responsibility?  When would your birthday be something you genuinely looked forward to instead of yet another day that passed by in a total blur?

Giving yourself five more minutes now before finally giving up on what might be while dragging your body into a sitting position, your hand reaching out to switch off the bedside alarm clock brought a startling realization to your still addled brain however.  The alarm clock wasn't there.  Bringing back your hand now and searching through your memory for a fragment of the dreaded sound that never failed to wake you up, the lack of it and the monstrosity that created it, now found you wide awake in a way you never were before.  For something was definitely amiss.

Feeling around the bedside unit once more and finding a lamp now instead of the aforementioned alarm clock, its light cutting through the remaining darkness showed you things were far more sinister than they first appeared however.  For this was not your room, your bed or even your house if the man sleeping beside you was any indication.

So what the fuck then was going on?

Reaching quietly for your phone now while switching off the lamp to plunge the bedroom into darkness once more, the glow from your phone now illuminated a discarded robe by the side of the bed and so leaving the comfortable structure without waking the beast you were not yet ready to deal with, a successful trip out to the waiting kitchen and living area brought you some kind of answers at least.

You had woken up in a hotel it seemed.  But how did you get here?

Sitting down in the nearest chair now while ignoring the clothes discarded haphazardly around the room, the torch on your phone, the card on the counter and the brochure on the coffee table began to paint a clearer picture of what was going on at least.  Your girlfriends had had enough.

Complaining non-stop about the three weeks of intensive work that had kept you away from them and enjoying your life, they had foregone physical gifts this year and treated you instead to a luxury birthday weekend at the very exclusive Emerald Forest Spa & Resort.  Their only request being that you chill out, forget about work and bring each of them back a home spa kit.  That and maybe find a man while you were at it.

Well, if the scene in the bedroom was anything to go by, you had that part of the weekend covered it seemed.  But what else had you been up to?

Relaxing deeper into the couch now that you at least knew where you were, the gaps in your memory still needed filling and so you decided to start at the beginning.

Leaving work two hours earlier than usual when your boss discovered you were going away for a birthday weekend, your case was already waiting in the trunk of your car and so now all you had to do was set off on the road.  Turning the key in the ignition and programming your destination into the GPS, three hours later and the time for relaxing had finally begun.

Driving up to the exquisite lodge and stopping your car outside the entrance, it finally felt like your weekend had started and you suddenly felt lighter.  Handing your keys to the valet then while the porter took your case and told you to meet him at reception, you now made your way into the lodge, received your room key and followed the kindly porter up stairs and along corridors until at last the door opened on the most spectacular suite you had ever seen.  God, you were going to kill them.

Tipping the porter now and thanking him for his service, you opened the doors leading out to the balcony, took in the view and shook your head as you sat on a lounge chair and hit the group chat message logo on your phone before typing.

[A suite ladies?  What were you all thinking?  You know I would have been happy with a broom closet.  You really are too kind to me.  Thank you all so much.  Love you loads to the end and back, we'll chat again when I get home.]

Sending the message then and bringing the phone to your chin as you smiled at how blessed you truly were, the ambient noises drifting up from the outdoor pool made you long to leave the world behind and begin enjoying yourself, so that's exactly what you did.

Heading back into the suite now and moving your case into the bedroom, you quickly peeled yourself out of your office attire, grabbed an equally quick shower and dressing next in the beautiful turquoise swimsuit Lisa had gifted you on your last birthday you then claimed a complimentary robe, pulled it on and headed back down to the lobby with your tote bag to where this whole adventure had first begun.  Making your way to the outdoor pool then, the mob of people socializing around here and creating the noise that had traveled quite well up to your balcony was a bit much to start off with however and so, returning indoors, you inquired directions to to the indoor facilities, found your way there easily and exhaled a genuine sigh of relief.

This was definitely more your pace.

Two women chatting amongst themselves.  A man and a woman on opposite sides of the pool, one reading a book, the other engrossed in an actual newspaper.  While a couple in and around your own age cuddled in the hot tub in a manner you had to admit was something you could definitely go for at this point.  Nothing outrageous or sexually inappropriate given where they were, they simply seemed to be enjoying each other's company, but it still didn't stop them from passing along a pleasant hello as you walked past.

Returning the hello and walking on to the nearest available lounger, you placed down your towel and bag by the side before directing your attention to those people present and asking if they minded you using the pool.  Telling you to go ahead and enjoy yourself, you did exactly that as those around you returned to their activities as if you weren't even there or had been a part of the group since the very beginning.  And as it turned out, that's exactly how they made you feel when your muscles cried out for a break and the lounge chair you claimed earlier called out to you once more.

Laying on it now as the young couple, Debbie and Marcus, took up the other two available spaces, a pleasant conversation between the three of you revealed that this was their first vacation since their daughter had been born.  Which was why relaxation and rejuvenation was so important to them it seemed.  At least according to Marcus anyway.  Opening up to them a little bit about yourself then and the circumstances that landed you here, it was Debbie who spoke up now and warned you not to leave here without making use of the spa facilities.

Oh sure, the pools were great and the outdoors were fabulous given where the lodge was located, but you had to promise her that the spa and its treatments would be a priority.  Apparently, at least if the gentleman across the room was to be believed when he also joined the conversation, their treatments could add years to your life, get rid of knots you never even knew you had and thoroughly rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.  Well with a recommendation like that, who were you to argue?

Smiling and agreeing to their requests now as Debbie and Marcus said their goodbyes and headed off on their next activity, you now reached into your bag, took out the book you had started reading two months back and beginning all over again, was now more relaxed than you had been in ages by the time you reached the halfway point.  Checking the time on your phone now and agreeing with your stomach when it started complaining, you put away your bits and pieces, said your goodbyes to the few new people who now occupied this space and headed off back to your room to plan how best to satisfy your appetite.

Which apparently was quietly you decided once you made it through the majestic building and all the way back to your suite.

Closing the door upon stepping back into the solitude of your room, a quiet evening was now your plan for finishing the day and so calling down for room service, you left instructions for it to be placed on the dining table and then headed off into the bathroom to shower and slip into something best suited to an autumn evening relaxing at home.  Completing all this, you then found yourself twenty-five minutes later curled up on the sofa enjoying a glass of wine and a delicious meal that you had to admit may actually have been better than sex.

Then again, maybe it had just been so long since you'd had sex that you had actually forgotten how good it could be.

Leaving this thought aside however as you could find it beginning to dampen your mood, you instead finished your meal, took the remainder of your glass of wine into the bedroom and switching on some music tossed your body back on the bed until morning found you fully clothed and far more relaxed than you could ever remember feeling.  It seemed switching off really could happen.

Rising out of bed the next morning now as a newfound energy coursed through your well rested body, you changed out of your comfy clothes, grabbed a quick shower to freshen up and fifteen minutes later found yourself downstairs in the restaurant tucking into a deliciously healthy breakfast you then intended to walk off.  Heading out the main door of the lodge then, you popped in your earbuds, switched on some music and made it a few steps into the surrounding woodland when the reality of where you were and what you were doing finally hit you.

This was not the city.  You didn't need music here to drown out the noise of traffic in order to find a calm and quiet space.  This was a calm and quiet space.  Smelling like the outdoors were supposed to smell, the sound of the breeze whistling through the trees, the birds chirping all around you and the crunch of twigs under your feet all blended beautifully to send you on your hike with a newfound appreciation for the sense of solitude you knew the city could never provide.  This was relaxation the way it was meant to be.

Returning to the lodge now two hours later feeling totally reinvigorated, yet sore in places you haven't exercised so much in years, a salad and sandwiches back in the restaurant you had set out from earlier checked off another box on your to do list and now it was time to shut your body up, keep your promise and partake in some of the spa treatments this place was apparently famous for.  So that's exactly what you did.  Heading back to your room for a quick shower, one phone call and a thorough search through the catalog later and soon you were ready to see just what this place was capable of.

As it turned out, you weren't disappointed.

Letting go of a lifetime of tension with a full body massage.  Relaxing through a facial.  Actually dozing off during your meditation session.  While wincing slightly through your waxing appointment, it was definitely the wrap session that topped off the whole experience and you reminded yourself to thank Debbie for the push she gave you if your paths ever crossed again.  Choosing a mixture of seaweed and algae, the twenty minute session followed by the warm shower afterwards definitely left you feeling like a new woman and now a hot meal with a few drinks at the bar seemed the perfect way to finish off the night.

Which is how it seemed you had ended up how you had woken up.

Booking a table in the restaurant for an hour after your spa experience finished, you arrived at the bar feeling totally refreshed and signaled the bartender for a Cape Cod before finding a vacant stool to enjoy your drink in peace while you passed away the intervening time.  But apparently that plan was not to be.  Walking through the entrance now and asking the same bartender for a beer, a guy that knew his way around a gym asked if the stool beside you was taken and what were you supposed to say?

'Of course not, but I'd prefer it if you didn't sit there.’  ‘You could sit there but you look like you're on the prowl and I'm so not interested.'  God, even in your head both those statements sounded incredibly rude and that was not the type of person you were.  So what other choice did you have?

Honing in on your nice girl qualities and plastering on your best fake smile, you told him to go ahead and that's exactly what he did because it seemed he did indeed have an ulterior motive after all.

Starting off your second drink now as the bar began to fill up with couples and single men and women, it was clear to see that some indeed were on the prowl as you had suspected earlier of your silent companion and one more drink and a short conversation revealed that protecting your peace had been his only intention.  Realizing now that his presence had kept the trolls from actually bothering you, you suddenly thought ill of your first impression of him and hearing your name called for your table you quickly decided to show him some consideration instead by asking him to join you.

To which of course he readily accepted.

Chatting together in the restaurant now as meals were delivered, plates were cleared and glasses were emptied, the time seemed to fly by and as the customers slowly scattered you knew you were having too good a time for it to end so soon ... so why should it?

Requesting a bottle of the same wine both of you had consumed throughout dinner, you then asked Bucky, for that was his name apparently, if he wished to end the night in your company.  And of course he was only too happy to accept if it was something you truly wanted.

Reassuring him now that you wouldn't have made the offer if it was not something you were comfortable with, a trip up the stairs, a glass of wine each and soon the suite was witness to an orgasmic coupling your body had not experienced in quite some time.  And if you were honest, it was every bit as restorative as the treatments in the spa.  But you couldn't see them putting that in the brochure.

Laughing to yourself at this thought now as the sound of the bedroom door opening brought you back to the present, Bucky joining you on the couch now made you a little nostalgic for the night you'd just had and the feelings it had reawakened.  But you knew this couldn't last.  After all, this was just a weekend trip for you and while what happened last night had been truly spectacular, life would have to return to normal when the sun rose again in twenty-four hours.  And that wasn't even touching on the fact that you didn't really know all that much about Bucky.

Oh sure, you had both divulged what you were doing here and what both of you did for a living.  But other than finding out he was here mending a broken heart, you had never actually asked him where he lived.  Like you, was he a city person born and raised around traffic and smog and alarm clocks that dictated each and every second of your lives.  Or perhaps he was more like the location both of you now currently inhabited.  Free spirited, sweats wearing nature boy who thrived in an environment as unpredictable as he had been between the sheets the previous night.

Making sure to hide your embarrassment now as this thought conjured up some of the activities both of you had engaged in last night, Bucky somehow seemed to zone in on what you were thinking however and whatever plans you might have had for the morning quickly had to be thrown out the window when your robe was ripped open and Bucky helped himself to his own form of breakfast.

Laying on the couch then in a helpless pool some time later, Bucky reappearing and carrying you off into the waiting bathtub gave you plenty of time to discover his secrets however as he now showed you firsthand the benefits that could be experienced when a bath that easily accommodated two was mixed with sex and powerful jets.  This was definitely shaping up to be one birthday you weren't going to forget any time soon.

[bsaka7]

Amy Lawrence: When Arsenal faced new challengers, Arteta and his players found new solutions (full text below)

The Tottenham Hotspur DJ cranked up the volume at full time as Arsenal’s players made their way towards their supporters. It seemed like an attempt to drown out the provocative noise of celebration, but Mikel Arteta didn’t need words to express himself as he went to embrace his players. All week, they pushed themselves when Arsenal dearly needed it and the manager’s compliments after the 1-0 win were heartfelt.

Preparations for this match had thrown up complication after complication. “I didn’t enjoy it because I didn’t sleep much,” Arteta said. “I looked ahead to Spurs for four or five days and I had a clear plan how to do it. I prepared all the meetings, the training sessions and everything. Then I get the news that we’ve lost a player, and then another player and then another player, and I had to completely change it and adapt the plan to the players that we had available. It was a great challenge.”

Rising to that challenge was something he and his players addressed with seriousness and sacrifice. It required adaptability, mental and physical willingness, and, for some of the personnel out on the pitch, the determination to stretch their body to the limits.

Jorginho, who pressed and harassed and was a general nuisance to the opposition with the leadership necessary for the occasion, was cramped up in stoppage time. It was only his third full 90 minutes for Arsenal this calendar year. Jurrien Timber, who has been feeling his way back carefully from his anterior cruciate ligament injury, played with combative relish to start and finish a Premier League match for the first time.

There was a perception that this was a good time to play Arsenal, with the first-choice midfield decimated. At one point, there were four Hale End teenagers watching on and warming up from the sidelines.

The team meetings building up to this north London derby were intense and full of heart. Can you play 90 minutes? Yes. Can you play a different position? Yes. Whatever the question, they endeavoured to give a positive answer. Every player selected stood tall, listened, adjusted and bristled with positive attitude. This was a match about finding solutions to problems.

Strategically, Arsenal turned to a good, old-fashioned 4-4-2. It was a practical way of best using the limited resources available, to pair Jorginho and Thomas Partey in central midfield so they could share the load, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli were positioned to scrap when necessary and zip forward when possible.

Kai Havertz, with Leandro Trossard in support, dovetailed efficiently enough. But it was the defence, the rock upon which this team is built, that enabled Arsenal to tackle this game with confidence, despite the deficiencies they would have preferred to do without.

Let’s talk about Arsenal’s back line for a moment. They have a culture, a shared love of defending, an inbuilt understanding between them, which has created a collective fearlessness. That is about to get its biggest test next weekend at Manchester City.

But in general, the way they help each other out and defend as a group, rather than individuals, makes them bigger than the sum of their already impressive parts. It must be wearing for attackers trying to break them down.

The partnership of William Saliba and the matchwinner Gabriel is well established, but it was notable that David Raya and Timber, two newer members of the rearguard, played with character and authority.

Raya’s calmness and confidence have kicked on enormously since last season. As for Timber, this felt like a breakout performance. He played so assertively that it felt as if he had been part of this for years. Winning this match with his own contribution felt like a moment when he was officially inducted into the back four. Welcome, Jurrien, to this very exclusive joint.

Arsenal needed a moment, a hero, to seize all the points and it came when Saka delivered a perfect invitation for Gabriel to turn his head into a human cannon ready to fire the ball into the happy oblivion of the Tottenham net.

Arteta was delighted with the collective response from his squad. “Loving the game means that you can do things regardless of the context,” he says. “Jorginho loves the game. When he’s not playing, he’s training like an animal every day even though he’s won everything. When you ask him to play 90 minutes, which he hasn’t played for months, he can do it.

“The same with Jurrien. It’s been a year out and he hasn’t played 90 minutes at all. He was struggling but he managed to do it for the team. Kai, without a pre-season, I don’t know how many minutes he’s played, but he was unbelievable. All of them — that’s the spirit and the characters we have that I love.

“It’s a tough week coming and, instead of finding excuses, we did the opposite. The team got hungrier and hungrier to play the game. We have people that are hard and have thick skin. They love the game and we love winning. To love the game and win, you have to do things that people call ugly. ”

The fixture list hardly threw up a gentle set of away games to open the season, with Aston Villa, Tottenham and Manchester City in early succession. Even though the performances have not been perfect enough for Arteta, finding ways to win the first two, without conceding a goal, augurs well.

The week ahead remains hugely demanding, with a Champions League trip to Bergamo to play Atalanta, before the Etihad and all the vibrations that brings.

There will be more problems, more questions and the need for more solutions. One thing Arteta can be sure of is that his players will do their absolute best to find them.

[hippolotamus]

Tease Tidbit Tuesday

Thanks for the tags @jesuisici33 @disasterbuckdiaz @daffi-990 and anyone who tagged me for Sunday 🥰 It's not quite Tuesday yet, but I'm excited and not sure when I'll be able to post tomorrow.

IDK if anyone else remembers this WIP from... a while ago, but, uh, may I present pole dancer!Buck, with a hint of baby gay!Eddie. This was formed from one too many listens to T Swift's Mirrorball, which came up on the playlist tonight and demanded I work on this. Tomorrow it's back to a WIP I should be working on (she says as if logic is useful here).

From behind the sparkling, glittery curtain, designed to mimic a shimmering night sky, Buck extends one leg toward the stage. The warm, hazy spotlight envelops the exposed skin, from mid-calf to his toes, positioned in a perfect demi point. If only Maddie’s old ballet instructor could see him now. She always fussed that he was all leg and no balance. Take that Mrs. Lahn.   Cheers and whistles from the Saturday night crowd add to the warmth, reaching, caressing, pulling at him. The regulars and newcomers alike know what’s coming, what to expect. Buck has become somewhat of a local celebrity, drawing patrons – and business – away from other clubs on the nights he performs. He knows what they’re waiting for and his body hums with the anticipation of providing it, of pleasing and being worthy of their praise. The emcee finishes Buck’s introduction and the opening beat of his music begins to play. A rhythmic snare drum that momentarily slices through the floaty feeling already encasing him. The disruption lasts only as long as it takes to slip past the curtain and emerge on the stage. A switch flips in his head, reminding him he’s on. Any remaining traces of Buck fall away, left backstage in a heap just like his civilian clothes and makeup case in the dressing room. The only person left now is an alter ego who is fluid, confident, sensual. An unforgettable presence for the next five minutes and forty seven seconds. He’s barely reached the twenty second mark before he notices. Before he connects with dark eyes and a piercing stare. The same one that’s been growing more intense in the weeks since the man first took up residence at a high top table in the last row. Gradually shifting from hesitant but curious to devastatingly certain, as if something slotted into place.  Buck’s vision narrows to that single point of focus even though he should be periodically scanning the crowd. The dancers are never supposed to appear as if they’re playing favorites. Like they aren’t equally enthusiastic about each and every warm-bodied potential tip in the room. Even if they’re personally responsible for a spike in revenue, like Buck and one or two others. He figures he can save his charms for when he’s working the floor. It’ll be easier then to slip on the other mask that makes every lap dance feel exclusive, like he’s not doing the same for anyone else with enough cash.

no pressure tagging @shortsighted-owl @eddiebabygirldiaz @stereopticons @911onabc @apothecarose @barbiediaz @buckaroosheart @buddierights @chaosandwolves @elvensorceress @eowon @fionaswhvre @fortheloveofbuddie @gayedmundodiaz @giddyupbuck @heartshapedvows @honestlydarkprincess @hoodie-buck @indestructibleheart @jamespearce9-1-1 @ladydorian05 @lemonzestywrites @loserdiaz @messyhairdiaz @monsterrae1 @singlethread @spaceprincessem @spotsandsocks @statueinthestone @steadfastsaturnsrings @the-likesofus @thekristen999 @theplaceyoustillrememberdreaming @thewolvesof1998 @underwater-ninja-13 @watchyourbuck @weewootruck @wikiangela @wildlife4life @your-catfish-friend and anyone else who wants to share 😘

[intoloopin-archive]

LOOPIN, THE GROUP.

First announced as 'Boy Of The Week Project' in late 2016, promised to eventually become an extension of Blockberry Creative's LOONA mostly housed under New Wave Music, BBC's novice partner company, LOOPiN was for a long time a myth: with no official records of the reported 24 trainees set to compete on 'Boy Of The Week', a mix of korean and international young men and teenagers, it's impossible to know how and when exactly LOOPiN came to be. Off the pre-pre-debut official recruiting, only seven met debut – them being Beomseok, Taesong, Minwoo, Seungsoo, Haruki, Dylan (with a one year delay compared to all others) and Haegon. Remaining members O.z, Hanjae and J.J joined the final lineup under undisclosed circumstances.

Once officially formed, LOOPiN had an almost siamese start as their sister group: debuting two to three members, one in every week of the month starting from mid 2018, then conjoining them under a unit until all 10 members had been formerly introduced to the public, officially becoming LOOPiN on August 2019.

As LOONA had The Loonaverse, LOOPiN's cosmic horror, highly nonlinear concept, named as The Looploore, stayed heavily with them up until New Wave Music's split with Blockberry Creative and complete buyout of their exclusive contracts in October 2022. Beomseok was the only original member that refused to renew and left the group, as well as celebrity life, on March 2023, quickly being replaced by Gyujin.

Former leader and group producer Minwoo left the group and the music industry in April 2024, midway through New Wave Music's sudden bankrupcy scandal and the settling of the members individual contract signing with Rare Rhythm. LOOPiN will move on as a 9 piece act under the label.

Known for being a highly self produced act with all members deeply involved in the creation of the group's visual, musical and storytelling aspects, as well as for having the most unlucky and polemic starts to almost every year, LOOPiN keeps on kicking high and ranking as one of the most prolific and eye catching groups in K-Pop now – a merit that seems to be far from being taken away from them anytime soon.

LOOPiN, THE MEMBERS.

PARK TAESONG.

With a history of being mocked for his kindness and taunted for his need to please, Park Taesong has been from day one the weakling in the eyes of every single one of his teammates, and he's been fighting a never ending war to not let them mold him into something he's not – into one of them. Even when his high tendency to anxiously spiral and his chronic fear of his own frail health get temporarily in the way, Taesong is always choosing to try to stay calm, stay sane, stay by his own side – but he still might prefer to give up on himself before he gives up on LOOPiN.

He's gentle, cowardly, optimistic, controling.

GIVEN NAME: Park Taesong. OTHER ALIASES: Taeng (nickname). BIRTHDATE: 02.15.97. PROFESSION: Idol. GROUP POSITIONS: main vocalist, leader (2019 - early 2022). ETHNICITY: Korean. NATIONALITY: South Korean. FACE CLAIM: Lee Minhyuk.

BANG MINWOO.

Bang Minwoo believes he's known hunger more intimately than anyone else around him, and for that, he is brutal. With a relationship with music that borders on obsession, he's given up body and soul for his art and will spare nothing to keep LOOPiN going – or so he wants the world to believe. Truth is, there is a caring, deeply empathic nature in Minwoo that he's been trying to ignore for years, and it's dormant now, but not gone. Ever since he began being confronted by past actions and his own secret history, Minwoo hasn't been able to sit with himself at peace and sleep.

He's dedicated, irritable, reliable, obsessive.

GIVEN NAME: Bang Minwoo. OTHER ALIASES: Noah Bang (english name). BIRTHDATE: 07.08.97. PROFESSION: Idol-songwriter (retired), music producer (retired), ??? (temporary). FORMER GROUP POSITIONS: leader (early 2022 - early 2024), main rapper, vocalist, dancer, group producer. ETHNICITY: Korean. NATIONALITY: South Korean (Guryong natural). FACE CLAIM: Lee Changyoon.

NA SEUNGSOO.

Na Seungsoo has always marched to the beat of his own drum, in a rhythm that hardly makes sense to anyone else. The never serious, untalented with academics youngest child of a lineage of successful doctors, Seungsoo took a gamble with the entertainment industry and believes himself to have won big. But where his stage act is a success, his interpersonal relationships suffer – quick to love and even quicker to hate, practically a stranger to forgiveness of even the smallest off offences, Seungsoo can't help but hurt everyone he tries to guide to what he considers to be safety.

He's romantic, intrusive, enthusiastic, impulsive.

GIVEN NAME: Na Seungsoo. OTHER ALIASES: Sonny Na (english name). BIRTHDATE: 10.19.97. PROFESSION: Idol, music producer, choreographer. GROUP POSITIONS: lead vocalist, lead dancer, group producer. ETHNICITY: Korean. NATIONALITY: South Korean (Busan natural). FACE CLAIM: Kwak Dongyeon.

FUKUNAGA HARUKI.

Coming from one of Japan's longest artistic driven families, a direct descendant of a long line of dancers, painters and classic musicians, Fukunaga Haruki was always expected to conquer the world. Now standing as a KArts drop out with an addition to highs and lows first, successful Idol second, Haruki can't see himself as anything but a projectile that failed on the launch path. He might be LOOPiN's most well known face, but that hasn't come without a price – as the keeper of secrets that can bring his entire company to ruin, he has to be compensated. But after years of pretending, his luck seems to have run out and the silent act has grown tired.

He's passionate, evasive, resourceful, mercurial.

GIVEN NAME: Fukunaga Haruki. BIRTHDATE: 09.22.98. PROFESSION: Idol, dancer, model. GROUP POSITIONS: main dancer, vocalist, visual, face of the group. ETHNICITY: Japanese. NATIONALITY: Japanese. FACE CLAIM: Takahashi Fumiya.

WOO GYUJIN.

A once commercial kid on the rise, Woo Gyujin vanished from the spotlight in his tween years and came back with a brand new face, brand new body and a fully developed voice, an adult with a solid base built over the buried skeletons that were once in his closet. His inherited need for a long, quiet life of stability keeps crashing with his want to be famous and seen. Now integrated into a group filled with chaos addicts and missing pieces, mess might crawl its way into his new life and doom Gyujin once again if he doesn't do something to help close the open wounds of his bandmates.

He's adaptable, incitive, assertive, unstable.

GIVEN NAME: Woo Gyujin. BIRTHDATE: 11.01.98. PROFESSION: Idol, actor (formerly). GROUP POSITIONS: main vocalist, songwriter. ETHNICITY: Korean. NATIONALITY: South Korean. FACE CLAIM: Lee Jongwon.

DYLAN HWANG / HWANG CHIHOON.

An only child born from a dreamy teenage affair in South Korea, Dylan Hwang was raised by his single mother and his grandparents in Santa Monica, California, unknowing of the identity of his father, unknowing of what to do with himself. Picking up his mom's long lost dream of living trought music, Chihoon started auditioning to entertainment companies in hopes to find some sort of enlightenment in fame, got a break of spirit instead – it seems that as long as he's got an eye open, he'll keep on being a quiet witness and attender of the worst the world has to offer.

He's selfless, repressed, attentive, paranoid.

GIVEN NAME: Hwang Chihoon. OTHER ALIASES: Dylan Hwang (english name). BIRTHDATE: 03.17.99. PROFESSION: Idol, singer-songwriter. GROUP POSITIONS: lead vocalist, songwriter, concept co-director (2023-). ETHNICITY: Korean. NATIONALITY: Korean-American. FACE CLAIM: Choi Taeyang.

WU ZHIMING / OH JIMIN.

Born chinese, raised with an iron fist in Seoul, O.z has felt essentially split from a young age. Absorbing a stoicism from his executive father he still can't let go off, Zhiming can only be unapologetically himself trough his genre defying, highly unpopular music. He became an Idol out of spite, set to hate it, but found a new side of himself trought his stage persona and the A list world he's set in – one that the black and white sense of morality he's cultivated trought life makes O.z an odd man out on. It seems Zhiming doesn't ever get the comfort of being able to pick the good side of fame.

He's truthful, blunt, confident, contrarian.

GIVEN NAME: Wu Zhiming. OTHER ALIASES: O.z (stage name); Oh Jimin (korean name). BIRTHDATE: 08.03.99. PROFESSIONS: Idol, DJ, music producer. GROUP POSITIONS: main rapper, group producer. ETHNICITY: Chinese. NATIONALITY: South Korean. FACE CLAIM: Zhang Linghe.

LEE HANJAE.

An extremely quiet child and an even more dismissible teenager, Lee Hanjae wouldn't dare to dream of the spotlight until it came offered to him in a once in a life opportunity. With an ease to art in it's many shapes budded for years while being the target of ill driven mismanagement, Hanjae is the new face being pushed, and to his own bewilderment, the public embraces him as an actor in a way that's foreign. Thriving on a new career path while his members seen close to reaching rock bottom, Hanjae can't make a single move – he's too afraid of what he might do if he ever let's himself reach for what he wants.

He's thoughtful, insecure, reserved, selfish.

GIVEN NAME: Lee Hanjae. BIRTHDATE: 04.02.00. PROFESSION: Idol, choreographer, actor. GROUP POSITIONS: main dancer, lead rapper. ETHNICITY: Korean. NATIONALITY: South Korean (Incheon natural). FACE CLAIM: Oh Seongmin.

XU JIAHANG.

The youngest son of a blockbuster movie director and Miss Chinese International 1989, J.J had fame promised to him as a birthright. Spoiled rotten in his early years, the world took no time beating him off his pedestal while making him look cruelty deep in the eyes once he became a teenager, making Jiahang develop a need to hide every inch of himself, turn into a doll to keep – no more. Fully aware of his worth once again, he wants in back into the spotlight and the fun of adoration, and there's something not quite right about his ambition – it's a factor of deep change. But each step up the ladder only enhances the promise of a nasty fall.

He's loyal, cunning, understanding, overachiever.

GIVEN NAME: Xu Jiahang. OTHER ALIASES: J.J (stage name); Jason Xu (english name); Jay (nickname). BIRTHDATE: 12.10.00. PROFESSION: Idol, model. GROUP POSITIONS: sub rapper, sub vocalist, visual. ETHNICITY: Chinese. NATIONALITY: Chinese (Beijing natural, Hong Kong and Manila adapt). FACE CLAIM: Xue Bayi / Ling Chao.

KIM HAEGON.

Kim Haegon is a time bomb shaped kid trapped inside the body of not quite enough famous, just turned legal adult. Terrified of abandonment even if it's a feeling too well known, Haegon attracts and keeps cruel company, all to avoid being alone with himself. Recently and forcedly divorced off all the relationships that kept him grounded to his childlike ways, Haegon wants maturity, and he wants it now – to be good in someone's eye, he's ready to beg and kill. The road to emotional recovery is a long one, and Haegon doesn't yet know how far his feet alone can take him.

He's intuitive, dependent, devoted, desperate.

GIVEN NAME: Kim Haegon. BIRTHDATE: 03.22.01. PROFESSION: Idol. POSITIONS: vocalist, lead dancer. ETHNICITY: Korean. NATIONALITY: South Korean (Seoul natural.) FACE CLAIM: Park Jihoon.

[bonny-kookoo]

Cannn we get a Drabble for Hoseok and husky reader at a fashion show🥺🥺

"There we go." Hoseok softly says with a smile as he holds your hand so you can step out of the car. Cameras are going off all around you, everyone having been already surprised (positively) when Hoseok had been seen at the airport in South korea, leaving with you next to him.

You're dressed in expensive luxury, Dior having made some of the pieces you wear exclusively for you only by Hoseoks request, and he himself loves the sight of it- just how a princess should be treated, he thinks. It's all very simplified clothing, but with little extras and proper adjustments to, for example, accommodate for your tail- the designated cut out part decorated with straps and lace.

He likes this. It's not just 'just cut out some fabric to pull it through and call it a day' how designer brands used to do it in the past. These days, with hard work and much effort and trouble along the way, they finally managed to really put you up to a position where there's standards for you, no matter what you are. You're no longer 'just a hybrid'.

And while it doesn't solve the entire problem of a hybrid's place in society, it's a start.

You're still a bit unsure how to really pose for pictures - you don't know what people would like to see and whatnot. But Hoseok next to you is the assurance that you need - calmly helping you to look at most of the cameras at least once, directing you so you never feel lost. Other celebrities at the show all look your way, and it reminds you that the sight of someone like you - a hybrid - is still not the norm. It's not something that just happens. It's still special.

Fashion shows are both interesting and very hard to handle for you.

Mostly because you tend to become restless after a while, as it's typical for most canine hybrids. Next to you, Hoseok makes sure that you're never uncomfortable. You lean towards him, a silent request for his attention. "How do they walk in those shoes?" You wonder quietly, and Hoseok snickers to himself.

"I don't know. Looks difficult, doesn't it?" He wonders, his hand holding yours tenderly, thumb running circles over the back of your smaller hand.

"Uncomfortable." You mumble in worry. "I hope they don't get hurt." You say, and the idol next to you can't help but grin to himself. You're just too sweet.

After the show ends, it's very clear that you've now exhausted your batteries - unable to really 'pose' anymore or control your reactions to the extent that you were able to before. But the cameras don't seem to mind- a clip of a cameraman calling out to you just for you to wag your tail and grin going viral later on. The man had tripped, his cap falling to the ground close to you, and you'd picked it up without thought, giving it back with a bow that was answered by a 'thank you so much' from the man, and a compliment on how pretty you look- one that drew exactly that viral reaction from you, your gaze immediately nack on Hoseok who smiles warmly, before he helps you back into the car to drive back to the hotel.

And right now, there's no luxury adorning your body anymore- just a comfortable while shirt and some sleep shorts, makeup gone and collar on the table, while Hoseok sits close to you and brushes out your freshly blow-dried tail. "You did great today." He comments, and the tail in his hands immediately moves.

"Thank you." You mumble into the pillows. "Do you think.. the others saw me today?" You say, before yawning.

"Oh, Yoongi-hyung posted something on his Instagram. He definitely watched it." The rapper explains, putting your brush back into his suitcase. "And Taehyung probably did too." He chuckles.

"That's nice." You say. "Can we sleep a bit longer tomorrow?" You wonder, and Hoseok quietly slips under the covers next to you.

"We gotta catch the flight, princess." He sighs. "But you can sleep on the plain." He reassures. You pout.

"But I wanted to eat breakfast here.." you complain quietly. "Eat a French croissant. Like an actually French one, in France and all!" You explain, and Hoseok laughs.

"I'm sure we can have someone pick one up on the way, puppy." He chuckles, brushing his hand over your head as you stretch and yawn again, before holding onto his arm, before you scoot closer, pecking his lips goodnight.

Hoseok and you.. are special.

He's been very open about his feelings towards you for a good while now- admitting his love openly, and reassuring you that everyone else loves you just like that as well- but he can understand that you might not want to believe in it until they've said it too. So for now, until the rest make that jump and confess, you'll simply continue on like you did before.

And hoseok doesn't mind-

Because it's kind of nice, knowing you kiss only him goodnight like this.

[flu5zn]

✼⠀⠀.⠀⠀⠀،،⠀SO S!CK⠀┉⠀is a fictional co-ed band formed in new england by its members as an independent act in january 2011. consisting of COREY, DEVIN, KIAN, and BILLIE, the band began playing college bars across the region while simultaneously posting song covers to youtube.

the early beginnings of attention placed on the band were first drawn from their respective universities. with corey and devin both attending yale university, they quickly became established as a popular college band, appearing across new haven before eventually being invited to perform at bars associated with other ivy league schools in the area. with kian joining the band's older members at yale and billie beginning to attended columbia university, their popularity would skyrocket, eventually allowing them to notoriety necessary to rent out a small studio for the formal recording of their first original body of work.

securing their manager, DENVER OWENS, would prove to be instrumental in so sick's rise in national prominence before the band would sign an exclusive recording contract just five years after forming.

though active in both the asian and western markets, the band has notably struggled to grasp commercial attention in south korea. despite this, members corey and kian frequently appear in korean programming due to their status as members of the highly influential kim family. similarly, billie, has become a rising star within vietnamese media, even securing a spot as a judge on vietnam idol in 2023.

&.⠀ʿʿ⠀✹ ﹕ it's all romanticism, nonsense, rottenness, art.⠀⸻⠀MEMBER PROFILES.

CORNELIUS ALFRED KIM, better known by his stage name COREY KIM, was born the eldest son of business mogul charles kim and his wife, gemini inc. chairwoman, johanna yeun kim on july 27, 1993 in hamburg, germany. from a young age corey made it known that he was a square peg in a family of perfectly rounded circles. he was thoughtful to a fault, much too sensitive for the ruthless expertise necessary for the businesses he would inevitably lead in his fathers' stead.

a torublemaker at heart, corey's interest in the heavy rock records he collected on vinyl only initially served as a rejection of his impending responsibilities. convinced musical success could free him from his imagined shackles of affluence, corey was the one to first bring the band together in 2011. undeniably, corey continues to be the glue of so s!ck, often acting as the mediator between the ambitions of devin and the sober rationalities of kian.

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE BASICS.

STAGE NAME: COREY

BIRTH NAME: cornelius alfred kim

OTHER NAME: kim jaeyoung

DATE OF BIRTH: july 27, 1993

ZODIAC SIGN: leo

PLACE OF BIRTH: hamburg, germany

HOMETOWN: new york city, usa

ETHNICITY: south korean

NATIONALITY: german & american

LANGUAGES: german, english, korean

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE CAREER.

OCCUPATION: singer-songwriter, guitarist

YEARS ACTIVE: 2011 - present

LABEL: kayak72

BAND: SO S!CK

POSITION: frontman, lead vocalist, guitarist

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE APPEARANCE.

HEIGHT: 6’2” (188 cm)

TATTOOS: n/a

PIERCINGS: n/a

FACECLAIM: woo dohwan

born and raised the third of five daughters, CHRISTINA XIE has never been a stranger to inconsistencies. from her parents' secret divorce to the six cities she had called home before her 16th birthday, her family was never anchored anywhere long enough for devin to care much for anything.

from a young age, she was quite aware of her surroundings. aware of the tension between her parents, aware of her changing environments, but most importantly: aware of the pressure to succeed. the daughter of two celebrity lawyers, devin recognized very early on that she only ever truly fit in with the other misfit kids who stuck to the back rooms of the fancy galas she couldn't stand.

her family's move to new york city in devin's freshman year of high school brought not only new vices to get high off in the school bathrooms, but also a blossoming friendship with a dark haired boy with darker under eyes and an impressive vinyl collection to match. corey and devin's friendship slowly moved from listening to his grungy recordings of their favorite bands to crafting recordings of their own in euphoric stupors in the early mornings before classes.

though corey would never admit it, devin's slow source of joy in the music they'd made together would eventually lead him to assemble a band of their own the summer before their freshman year at yale. as so s!ck's lead guitarist, devin takes an active role in the composition of the band's music, drawing influence from bands like fleetwood mac, paramore, coldplay, and u2.

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE BASICS.

STAGE NAME: DEVIN

BIRTH NAME: christina xie

OTHER NAME: xie ting

DATE OF BIRTH: august 21, 1993

ZODIAC SIGN: leo

PLACE OF BIRTH: santa ana, usa

HOMETOWN: new york city, usa

ETHNICITY: chinese

NATIONALITY: american

LANGUAGES: english, korean

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE CAREER.

OCCUPATION: singer-songwriter, composer, lead guitarist

YEARS ACTIVE: 2011 - present

LABEL: kayak72

BAND: SO S!CK

POSITION: vocalist, lead guitarist

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE APPEARANCE.

HEIGHT: 5’4” (163 cm)

TATTOOS: thirteen total

PIERCINGS: seven total

FACECLAIM: amber yang

born the second son to charles and johanna kim on october 15, 1995, MARKUS KIM, usually referred to by his middle name, KIAN, often found himself happiest when he was on his own. the title, "corey kim's younger brother" never bothered him much considering the fact that his brother's peers would never be his own. if anything, in kian's mind, he often reversed the misconceptions people had founded about their family based on his older brother.

the overachieving, know-it-all of the family, kian never struggled with knowing what his place was within the family. frequently, he would even find himself picking up the responsibilities corey had left behind in favor of whatever it was he did in the early hours of the morning. he had his mind set on the future much earlier than most even decide what their favorite color was.

his initial interest in music was brushed off by his family who knew better than to believe he had found an interest other than the family business. but as he began to use music as a free release of negative energy, they all began encouraging him to pursue the industry in hopes of what opportunities it might present him. along the way somehow, corey managed to convince kian to join his band. although apprehensive at first, kian joined the band, figuring he would follow in corey's footsteps for once. currently, kian is the bassist of the group, often lending his talents to playing keyboard for the band as well.

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE BASICS.

STAGE NAME: KIAN

BIRTH NAME: markus kian kim

OTHER NAME: kim jaehwan

DATE OF BIRTH: october 15, 1995

ZODIAC SIGN: libra

PLACE OF BIRTH: hamburg, germany

HOMETOWN: new york city, usa

ETHNICITY: south korean

NATIONALITY: german & american

LANGUAGES: german, english, korean

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE CAREER.

OCCUPATION: singer-songwriter, bassist, keyboardist

YEARS ACTIVE: 2011 - present

LABEL: kayak72

BAND: SO S!CK

POSITION: vocalist, bass guitarist

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE APPEARANCE.

HEIGHT: 5’11” (180 cm)

TATTOOS: n/a

PIERCINGS: n/a

FACECLAIM: im changkyun

WILHELMINA HUỲNH was born to her parents on a quiet night in december. that quietness seemed to be a common theme throughout her young life. speaking very sparingly until the age of 5, billie always had an appreciation for stillness. it was often in the stillness that she was able to get away from the constant doting of her parents who were particularly protective over their youngest daughter.

early on, billie ventured into child modeling even being featured by major brands throughout elementary and middle school. although she loved getting all dressed up, it wasn't uncommon for billie to throw silent, pouty fits to her parents' dismay.

always a girl of very few words, her parents enlisted the help of a close friend to teach billie to play the piano. unknowingly, they ushered in a love for music within the young girl that would continue to determine her dreams for at least another decade.

becoming friends with kian kim and his older brother corey in her freshman year of high school proved to be the greatest decision billie ever made. particularly so when corey begged her to join his band after discovering her musical talent. continuing to be a girl of few words, billie is regarded as the most elusive member of the band and therefore, one of the more popular members.

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE BASICS.

STAGE NAME: BILLIE

BIRTH NAME: wilhelmina mai linh huỳnh

DATE OF BIRTH: december 27, 1995

ZODIAC SIGN: capricorn

PLACE OF BIRTH: atlanta, usa

HOMETOWN: new york city, usa

ETHNICITY: vietnamese

NATIONALITY: american

LANGUAGES: english, vietnamese, korean

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE CAREER.

OCCUPATION: singer-songwriter, drummer

YEARS ACTIVE: 2011 - present

LABEL: kayak72

BAND: SO S!CK

POSITION: vocalist, drummer

✹.⠀⠀،،⠀THE APPEARANCE.

HEIGHT: 5’6” (168 cm)

TATTOOS: n/a

PIERCINGS: n/a

FACECLAIM: lynhci

[mariacallous]

The Muppet Christmas Carol has been voted the best Christmas film of all time in our annual readers' poll – knocking previous winner It's A Wonderful Life off the top spot.

Frank Capra's iconic 1946 drama starring James Stewart has consistently been named the winner of the poll in the many years that RadioTimes.com has been running it, but has to settle for second place this time around, after securing 16 per cent of the vote - compared to 20 per cent for the winner.

Brian Henson's irreverent take on Charles Dickens's classic Yuletide yarn – which famously starred Michael Caine as notorious miser Ebenezer Scrooge alongside a cast of Muppets – had previously finished runner-up, but now tops the poll one year after it celebrated its 30th anniversary.

As it was crowned, Henson spoke exclusively to RadioTimes.com about topping the list – describing the result as "wonderful" news.

"I'm very proud of the movie and I'm thrilled that people appreciate it so much," he said. "It was a very special piece, it took a lot of people working really hard and we really put our hearts into it. And I'm thrilled that it's so popular and it seems to be even building the popularity, which is great."

It's a fitting year for the film to have won the poll given Caine recently announced that he was retiring from acting, and Henson paid tribute to the star and his "incredible body of work", calling him the "quintessential working actor."

He added: "It was really fun doing Christmas Carol with him because he so appreciated all of the humour around him. But he played his part very, very seriously. He said to me, 'I'm going to act as if I'm working in the Royal Shakespeare Company and that's only going to make the Muppets even funnier and more delightful.'

"And he was absolutely right. But it was wonderful because he'd do a take where he's so severe and dark, and then I'd call cut, and then he just start laughing at everything that was going on around him. So he was really just a delight to work with."

Meanwhile, Henson also urged fans to watch one version of his film in particular – specifically the longer cut containing the previously lost song When Love Is Gone, which was added to Disney Plus for UK viewers a few years ago.

"When [the song] is in the movie, the structure of the movie is much, much better," he said. "And the emotional arc for Scrooge and Michael's performance is much, much better. He tuned his entire performance going into that moment and coming out of it and then to sort of cut the meat of it was a real shame, so it's great to have it back in!"

In total, there were 27 films on our shortlist – from classic Hollywood fare such as White Christmas all the way up to last year's Spirited.

The third place position went to 1990's Home Alone, which gained 8 per cent of the vote, while Love Actually came in fourth – also with 8 per cent, but marginally fewer votes – and Die Hard rounded out the top five with 7 per cent of the vote.

Interestingly, Elf, which has regularly been a fixture in the top five and celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, dropped down to eighth position, with Miracle on 34th Street and animated gem The Snowman both coming ahead of the Will Ferrell classic in the final results.

[ed-recovery-affirmations]

So I occasionally browse the notes of this blog just because I know some people Can't Resist Being Shitty in the notes and I occasionally need to go through and block just to keep this blog's engagement positive. However, this evening I found something in the notes that's not exactly...shitty...and more, uh...okay, it's hard to explain. But I felt it's something I wanted to address.

Apparently one of my original posts made it into some fandom drama blogs. I don't really place any restrictions on what blogs people are allowed to reblog my posts to, so I don't necessarily take issue with that. Just a handful of people who Really Like a certain male celebrity (me too btw, but that's not what this is about) and have blogs dedicated to him and have a chain post arguing with each other in my notes.

And I guess in this small segment of the Internet people are getting angry that one blogger made a "woman's issue" about a rich white man. While I never intended my post to be about this certain celebrity, I did want to address something. I am a woman, a cis woman, and so a lot of my posts are about issues that primarily occur in women. But I think it's better if my blog is not exclusive. It's not ONLY women who have these issues. I don't want to make ANYONE'S struggle invisible on this blog.

For example, the original post mentioned things like cellulite, which occurs more often in AFAB bodies than AMAB bodies. However, trans men have AFAB bodies, and some enbies do too. That might be something that causes them to have body image issues, and I would never want them to feel like they can't engage with/relate to a post I made (that never specifically mentioned women btw). Women of course are free to relate to it too!

The post additionally mentioned things like stretch marks and aging wrinkles. AFAB and AMAB bodies both get these.

Not specified in the post, but it's also a natural part of the human experience for disabled people to have stigmatized body differences, and need to love their own bodies as well. Physical disabilities can occur in both AMAB and AFAB people.

I don't know, maybe I didn't need to make this a whole thing. I chose not to engage in that post or respond to anybody on it because it had so little to do with what my blog is actually about, just a lot of people loudly disagreeing on how to be a fan of That One Male Celebrity. Really just Tumblr Being Tumblr. But I think it's important for us to talk about this in ED recovery communities, and recognize it.

It's okay for us to want our own struggle seen and recognized. But we should also take the time to recognize the ED experiences of people whose stories are very different from ours. The traditional ED public narrative tends to be a skinny white cis girl who has anorexia or bulimia. But those who don't fit that narrative still need support and healing. I just want to create a space where everyone can experience that and learn in a positive way.

So unless I make a post that specifically mentions that it's about women - my posts are generally not just for women. I don't believe it takes away any specific resources - since access to my posts are not on a first-come-first-serve basis - for people who do not identify as women to engage a post that many women also identify with. In fact, I hope it might help us to better build a stronger, more understanding recovery community with a diverse understanding of ED experiences.

Off soapbox, send post.

[miroslavcloset]

Leon Goretzka [NSFW Alphabet]

A/N: Good afternoon fellow girls and gays~ Today is Leon's birthday and to celebrate it, yes here we have ✨Smut✨ I present unto you Leon's NSFW alphabet with all my spicy Headcanons for Bayern's resident thot daughter. Hope you like it <3

A = Aftercare (what they’re like after sex)

He would be the one to enjoy the view, if he is on top of you, loves to see his work, your body covered in small sweat drops, blushed, and with cute marks of love bites. Then with a smile full of affection asks you if you need anything and how are you feeling, proceeding to give you a kiss and cuddle next to you.

B = Body part (their favorite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)

Due to his hard physical training, his chest and arms are strong and defined, being a perfect view while being under him. He loves your thighs, especially when he is grabbing them to hold you against him, your legs locked around his waist. Secretly wants you to sit on his shoulders to feel them around his head.

C = Cum (anything to do with cum)

One of his favorite views is how his cum pools in your abdomen when he finishes outside, loving how in a way you're his and his only, that picture being exclusive to his eyes. After that, he will be careful to clean you up, if possible with a warm towel.

D = Dom/Sub (are they more dominant or submissive in bed?)

He loves to dominate you, making sure you know who you belong to, even sometimes telling you to say it in the middle of making love. Of course everything with any boundaries or limits of your preference, he would never hurt you in any shape or form.

E = Experience (how experienced are they? do they know what they’re doing?)

He may be experienced but even he has some questions sometimes, mostly regarding your body and how specific things make you feel, but you notice when he's shy to ask you so he's relieved when you take the initiative in those kinds of topics.

F = Favorite position (self-explanatory)

He can't pick just one, but one that's close to being his favorite is he being behind you while you being all on fours, sometimes your head against the bed. He adores how your back curves to rise your lower back to take him whole.

G = Goofy (are they more serious in the moment? are they humorous?)

He has this serious mood while being on top of you but If you make any joke or something weird happens (ex: while you're both into it and the phone rings or he's unable to unbutton your shirt so he has to admit defeat and let you do it) he smiled and even laughs at his failure of keeping the serious and seductive aura.

H = Horny (how they let you know they want to have sexy times)

Depends on where you are. If you're at his place, some kisses and touches would be enough to let you know he wants you in his bed, but If he's at the club or you're somewhere else some spicy texts would get the job done, also one or two pics wouldn't hurt either.

I = Intimacy (how are they during the moment? the romantic aspect)

When the moment is up for some sweet lovemaking, it may be because there is a special date, an anniversary, or just a lazy afternoon that needs extra affection. There, he wants to make you feel loved and special. Kisses, holding you close to him, and comfortable positions under the blankets are the best parts apart from the soft love you's whispered in your ear while he enters you.

J = Jack off (masturbation headcanon)

You'd rather touch him, but If you're far from each other, there's nothing that a video call can't solve. Loves watching you undress for him while he starts to touch himself in his hotel room. You can spend the whole night telling how much you need and desire each other.

K = Kink (one or more of their kinks)

Is very much into the Dominant kink, liking the restraints and teasing side of it. Most of the time he is the one who likes giving, touching you, making you feel good, and knowing exactly what you like. Wants you to feel comfortable while he takes charge of the situation and lets you feel loved and cherished.

L = Location (favorite places to do the do)

Has discovered a liking to having sex with you in the shower, going for another round while cleaning you up. It gives him the opportunity to touch your whole body, using his hands everywhere, and last but not least, likes to dry you with the towel and brush your hair afterward.

M = Motivation (what turns them on, gets them going)

He normally has a high sex drive when he's around you so giving him extra motivation is going to guarantee you a passionate night. You may surprise him with a new set of lingerie or a different toy to try, even with a new sex position or moaning his name while being touched by him.

N = No (something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

Nothing that implies making you uncomfortable, grossed, or scared. He has very clear that a relationship is for two, not for only one's pleasure.

O = Oral (preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc.)

Has a preference for giving and is very, very skilled. Knows exactly where to use his tongue, and where and how you like it. Your taste arouses him a lot, and also the sweet sounds you make when he swirls his tongue exactly where he knows you'll orgasm.

P = Pace (are they fast and rough? slow and sensual? etc.)

Depends on the mood you're both on. When you're especially sensitive, he will do it slow and sensual, teasing you and wanting to hear you beg for him to fuck you harder, faster, how much you need him.

Q = Quickie (their opinions on quickies, how often, etc.)

A quickie before going to train is perfect to get his day going, being able to taste and touch the love of his life in the morning. It could be without taking off your clothes, using his hands to lower your clothes just enough to get the job done.

R = Risk (are they game to experiment? do they take risks?)

The adrenaline of the risks you may offer him are something he really likes, may it be something in a public place or a new kink you are interested in trying.

S = Stamina (how many rounds can they go for? how long do they last?)

Another of the pros of his physical training is his stamina to go all night long if you're up to it, usually not getting exhausted over one or two rounds. Also, he knows how to extend the night so you're not done after coming only once or twice.

T = Toys (do they use them? on a partner or themselves?)

The toys he likes to use are mainly restraining ones that he'd use in you. If you want to experiment with other ones he is more than open to please you. A rather cute fun fact is that he would be too shy to enter a physical sex shop, so he is good with online shopping.

U = Unfair (how much they like to tease)

Teasing is one of his favorite things, may it be physical, with soft touches and kisses over your body, or when you're not with him, sending you texts or pictures from the locker room and with few clothes to tell you what his plans in bed are with you tonight.

V = Volume (how loud they are, what sounds they make.)

He likes you being vocal, also while being dominant with you would tell or ask you things like "Tell me how much are you enjoying it" and "Moan for me, baby". He is not so loud himself, his breathing and gasps are the only sounds he makes, well, sometimes if the moment is very special you've achieved to draw soft moans from him.

W = Wild card (a random headcanon)

He's very sensitive himself, so if you want to tease him with your mouth, or touch him under his clothes, be prepared for a very turned-on man that will take you by your wrists and shove his tongue into your mouth while grinding his still-clothed erection against you.

X = X-ray (let’s see what’s going on under those clothes)

A very well-built body. You have the pleasure of having a sculptured view to enjoy. Leon knows you like it so while training likes to tease you with a selfie of himself, sweaty and only in his shorts, pulling them down slightly so his hip bones and the skin below are visible enough.

Y = Yearning (how high is their sex drive?)

His sex drive is at its top point when you haven't seen each other in a while, maybe while he is busy with several pieces of training or interviews before an important game, so after everything is done and he can finally rest at home, he would be more than glad to let his body show you how much he missed you.

Z = Zzz (how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

Likes to make sure you're comfortable and that you don't need anything before falling asleep, usually he is not that sleepy afterward so has the time to take care of you before exhaustion takes over him.

[glamnessaaumisc]

Sci-Fi Worldbuilding: The Weeaboo Empire and their Leaders

This is like my first foray into the nitty-gritty of worldbuilding in my sci-fi setting, which I have now dubbed SolarHood (because the entire setting takes place in the Solar Neighborhood, or a bunch of stars that are close to the Sun). cw for mention of child soldiers or something I guess.

Nekos are one of the oldest post-Human races to evolve. Nekos as a race predate the first interplanetary colonies. They began as a slave race engineered by an American corporation known to target the American Japanophile demographic (coloquially known as weeaboos). As such, they were conditioned to behave in a manner similar to characters from fictional Japanese media and advertised as "The first ever real-life cat-maids!" When interstellar travel was made available, the Neko slaves revolted against their captors and escaped to a distant star which they named Sakura.

Due to the unique conditions of its ethnogenesis, Nekoese culture is heavily influenced by fictional media from the ancient Earth-nation Japan[1], so much so that the Nekoese have their own English dialect, dubbed "Nekoenglish," which incorporates numerous Japanese words (often incorrectly) into its vocabulary. Their naming traditions, too, are heavily influenced by fictional Japanese media, as most common Neko names are either the names of anime characters or mundane Japanese words. They're like the aliens from Galaxy Quest but they're weeaboos instead of Trekkies.

The Neko escapees established the Nekoese State, a military government initially geared around defending against a possible invasion from the United States[2]. This changed after the First Kozmite[3] Incursion, when America provided the Nekoese with military aid. Ever since then, the Nekoese have maintained close relations with the United States. Thirteen years before the Solar Restoration[4], the Nekoese State fell into a civil war known as the Children's Rebellion[5]. The last war the Nekoese State fought before the Solar Restoration was the Second Kozmite Incursion, when the Kozmites invaded both the Nekoese State and the Arcadian Convention[6]. The Technocracy ended up losing again, cementing their status as an international pariah.

Goji Harui is the Supreme Admiral of the Nekoese Space Fleet. He was appointed during the Second Kozmite Incursion after the death of the previous Supreme Admiral. His appointment was controversial due to his young age (of 23) and his service to the Bento-Loyalists during the Children's Rebellion[7], but the President took into account two things when she appointed Goji - his distinguished service during the Second Kozmite Incursion, and the fact the previous Supreme Admiral vouched for him before his death[8].

Ikari Koryu is one of the military commanders responsible for the Children's Rebellion. When he was a child, he was enlisted in the Nekoese Army. He was randomly selected for a secret experiment when he was 15. President Bento subjected Koryu to numerous painful and traumatic operations and trials, turning him into the first and only super-soldier in the Nekoese State, whose body cannot feel pain and can rapidly heal from any wound. Koryu rose quickly through the ranks of the Army, eventually becoming a general. As a general, he staged the Children’s Rebellion alongside Admiral Rimaru Sanobashi and was later appointed Supreme Commander of the Nekoese Army. Despite being a celebrated figure among the Nekoese populace, many military commanders, especially the admiralty, tend to steer clear of him[9].

Goji and Koryu despise each other but keep their enmity on the down-low. Rimaru takes a neutral position because neither Goji nor Koryu have fucked up egregiously enough to warrant getting fired yet.

[1] - Despite being heavily influenced by Japanese fictional media, Nekoese culture has little to no influence from actual Japanese culture. Nekos exclusively speak English, and most of them do not know what Japan is.

[2] - The United States, formerly the United States of America, is the oldest and largest extant nation in the Solar Neighborhood. Before the Fall of Sol (which was when the Solar System was occupied by the exiled Kozmite terrorist Zrout), the United States stood at the forefront of interplanetary and later interstellar colonialism. The US is the only Earth-nation to survive the Fall of Sol.

[3] - The Kozmite Technocracy is the third largest nation in the Solar Neighborhood, controlling five interstellar colonies, as well as a puppet state. Its government is structured in a way that all political power is in the hands of a few tech oligarchs, chief among them being the Overlord. The Technocracy is known for its belligerence, having attacked most of their neighbors throughout its history.

[4] - The Solar Restoration denotes the defeat of the exiled Kozmite terrorist Zrout, who controlled the Solar System for tens of thousands of years, and the establishment of the Free Solar Republic. This would be like the first thing that would happen in a hypothetical comic of this sci-fi setting.

[5] - During the First Kozmite Incursion, the Nekoese State began enlisting child soldiers to fill the hole the Kozmites were eating in their manpower. This policy continued until the Children's Rebellion, when then-General Ikari Koryu and then-Admiral Rimaru Sanobashi, both former child soldiers, rebelled against the former President Ryuga Bento. After the success of the Rebellion, Sanobashi was elected the new President and she appointed Koryu to lead the Nekoese Army.

[6] - The Arcadian Convention are a bunch of furries whose convention grew too big so they fucked off to the stars and formed their own nation-state. The region of the Solar Neighborhood that contains the Arcadians and the Nekoese is colloquially known as the "Cringe Sector." Don't get me started on the furry lore in this setting; I'll be here all night.

[7] - Goji Harui was born on the capital planet of the capital system of the Nekoese State. He enlisted in the Nekoese Army when he was 12, one year before the Children's Rebellion. Because he was stationed in the capital, he had no choice but to fight against the rebels. All of his childhood friends were taken captive and killed by General Ikari Koryu.

[8] - "Of everyone who has ever served in my Fleet, one pilot stands out to me. His name is Goji Harui. He used to be in the Army, switched over after the Children's Rebellion. I know he's just 23, but I think he'd do good in my position. I ask that you appoint him the new Supreme Admiral in the event of my death or retirement. He deserves it more than anyone else." -Letter from the previous Supreme Admiral to President Sanobashi

[9] - “I have a great deal of respect for what Supreme Commander Koryu-sama has done for this country. It's a shame the man is a sexist baka when you get to know him.” -Quote from an anonymous Nekoese admiral

[theblackfemininesociety]

Get Ready to Indulge: A Sneak Peek into the Exciting Goodies Headed Your Way!

Hey Besties !

We hope this blog post finds you radiating with positivity and self-love. Today, we want to take a moment to express our gratitude for your unwavering support and shed some light on the exciting initiatives we've been working on behind the scenes. Trust us, it's all for you, our incredible besties!

While we can't spill all the beans just yet, we wanted to give you a sneak peek into the incredible things we have in store for you. Brace yourselves; it's going to be a transformative journey that will leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to conquer the world!

First things first, we've been laser-focused on curating exclusive content that will uplift and motivate you like never before. Our Instagram page is about to become your go-to source for all things black femininity. Prepare yourself for daily doses of inspiration, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking discussions that will fuel your mind, body, and soul.

But that's not all! We understand that becoming your best self encompasses various aspects of life, including personal growth, mental well-being, and physical health. That's why we've been dedicatedly collaborating with experts and influencers in different fields to bring you valuable insights and expert advice. Together, we'll explore topics such as self-care rituals, body positivity, career growth, relationships, and much more. Get ready to embark on a holistic journey of self-discovery and self-love!

In addition to our engaging online content, we're also working on organizing exclusive events and workshops tailored specifically for our beloved community. Picture this: intimate gatherings where like-minded individuals come together to share their stories, celebrate their victories, and uplift each other. These events will serve as safe spaces where you can connect, network, and grow alongside fellow black femmes who understand and appreciate your unique experiences.

At the Black Feminine Society, we firmly believe that empowerment comes from within, but having a supportive community by your side makes the journey even more fulfilling. Together, we'll break barriers, shatter stereotypes, and radiate confidence like never before.

So, dear besties, stay tuned, keep your eyes peeled, and make sure to follow us on Instagram (@BlackFeminineSociety) for real-time updates, exclusive insta-only content, and a daily dose of inspiration that you already know and love.

We owe everything to your incredible support, and we feel immensely grateful to have you as part of our sisterhood!

Xoxo,

The Black Feminine Society Team 💋

[ash-and-books]

Rating: 2/5

Book Blurb:

In this smart and swoony adventure rom-com, a journalist and a movie star find themselves teaming up to cover up a murder...and falling for each other in the process. When freelance journalist Khin Haymar is assigned by Vogue to get a scoop on Tyler Tun, Hollywood’s hottest movie, she's determined to succeed. Tyler has returned home to Myanmar to shoot his latest film, and if Khin’s able to get an exclusive, there may well be a permanent position waiting for her at Vogue Singapore.

Tyler has a very private life and doesn’t show any sign of letting down his walls for Khin. But then one night on set, a man follows Khin into the park. When he threatens her, Tyler steps in and things escalate fast. Khin knows they can’t go to the police, even if this was self defense, and even if this stranger seems to have targeted her specifically.

As Khin and Tyler work together to hide their secret and find out more about her attacker, they grow closer and Tyler finally starts opening up. But now the idea of writing the article gives Khin an uncomfortable morality-related guilt. Before long, everything hangs in the balance. Will they get away with murder? Can Khin get the exposé she needs for her dream job? And is she willing to risk Tyler’s trust in the process?

Review:

Who knew that the way to love was covering up a murder. A journalist has to write an article about a movie star... only they both end up working together to cover up a murder and now they are falling in love as well. Khin Haymar is a freelance journalist who has the opportunity to get a job at Vogue... but if she wants her story in there she'll have to get the scoop on Tyler Tun, Hollywood's hottest movie star. Tyler has returned home to shoot his newest project and Khin is determined to get the job. Yet when a man follows Khin off set and threatens her.... and Tyler steps in... things escalate and now Khin and Tyler have a dead body on their hands. They agree to keep it a secret and get the article done, but with a secret to share and more time bonding... romance begins to bloom. But can they get away with murder and can two people from completely different worlds be together? This was definitely an interesting romance premise and while it didn't really work for me I think its a fun enough book for others to give it a try. The story revolving around a murder cover up as well as a journalist x celebrity was a fun trope. The romance just didn't really fell all that there for me and I just didn't really care for Khin all that much. The couple didn't really feel like they have chemistry for me and I just felt myself not connecting all that much to the story the closer and closer I got to the end. While this one missed the mark for me I do think fans of a celebrity x non celebrity romance or a murder mystery romance, I do think you should give it a try!

Release Date: October 8,2024

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Griffin for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Alastair Mordey

Published: Jun 4, 2023

You may have noticed over the last decade a steady increase in the promiscuous use of the word ‘trauma’. A word that once referred exclusively to grievous injuries of body and mind (gun-shot wounds, PTSD, that sort of thing) can now describe virtually anything. Psychotherapists and clinical psychologists are the main super-spreaders of this hyperbolic virus, though educators, politicians and of course celebrities are now getting in on the act.  

But trauma is more than just an annoying buzz word. Its inexorable creep into common parlance is the culmination of aa sustained campaign to politicise healthcare that has been going on for 30 years. Along the way it has resurrected some of Sigmund Freud’s more bizarre theories about childhood development, and married them with social justice concerns to become what is effectively a secular religion. 

Anyone who is familiar with the work of Sigmund Freud knows that his psycho-sexual theories developed in two distinct stages. The first posited that people who were mentally or emotionally unwell had repressed traumatic memories (almost always of sexual abuse in their childhood). He eventually gave up on this theory. In its stead he developed his equally infamous theory of infantile sexuality, in which children experienced sexual feelings through different erogenous zones during distinct stages of their development. It may surprise and horrify you to learn that both theories are alive and well in the current mental healthcare establishment, where they have been rebranded into a pseudoscientific theory about childhood trauma that leads to brain damage, addiction, and disease. 

This Freudian reformation began in the 1990s with the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study. The ACE study as it became known, was conducted between 1995 and 1997. The lead researcher was a physician called Vincent Felitti, who worked at Kaiser Permanente’s Department for Preventative Medicine in San Diego. Dr Felitti ran a weight loss programme at Kaiser, and he had a problem. His obese patients kept dropping out. Not only that, it was the ones who were doing well who were dropping off the most. Confused by this, Felitti conducted follow up interviews with as many of those patients as he could, and what he found was shocking. Out of the 286 interviews, a significant amount reported that they had been sexually abused as children. These revelations caused Felitti to reflect on Freud’s psycho-sexual theories. What if his patients had grown up using their obesity as a protective mechanism to deter sexual predation? Maybe that was why they were unwilling to lose too much weight. Or what if comfort eating was some kind of self-medication? An ‘oral fixation’ which compensated for the nurturing they should have received as children? 

Inspired by these hypotheses, Felitti approached colleagues at the Center for Disease Control and set about designing the ACE study. The study asked some 17,000 patients in California’s healthcare system ten questions about adverse experiences in their childhood (which they dubbed ACEs). Specifically they asked them questions about three types of abuse (physical, sexual, and psychological); two types of neglect (physical and emotional); and five different types of household dysfunction (exposure to mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence, criminal behaviour, and divorce or separation of parents). Those ‘ACE scores’ were then mapped onto the respondents’ current health status as adults. 

The results were stark. Children who experienced four or more of these ACEs were deemed two to four times more likely to smoke, and four to 12 times more likely to become alcoholic or drug addicted as adults, compared to people with an ACE score of zero. Further, the study found that high ACE scores were strongly correlated with ischemic heart disease, cancer, chronic lung disease, and even skeletal fractures later in life. It seemed that childhood trauma wasn’t just causing obesity. It was causing all manner of addictions and health problems in later life. 

Over the following decade Dr Felitti became something of a hero to mental health professionals. Helping professionals like counsellors and psychologists are almost overwhelmingly left-leaning, so Felitti’s work was well received in such circles. It seemed to vindicate their convictions that social ills like health inequality and addiction had purely sociological causes, and could therefore be solved only by direct government action. 

By the end of the decade the ACE study was so lauded that organisations like the World Health Organisation were adopting the concept. In 2012, they issued their own questionnaire (the ACE-IQ) which sought to measure ACEs across the globe. The WHO noted that ACEs can ‘disrupt early brain development and compromise functioning of the nervous and immune systems.’ So not only were ACEs causing actual organic disease, they were permanently rewiring the brain. As a result, large sums of money began pouring into research which sought to isolate the specific bio-markers of adverse childhood experiences, and the idea that early life adversity might be ‘biologically embedded’ took hold. 

By the 2010s the idea that childhood trauma causes physical illness began to seep its way into popular culture. Magazine and newspaper articles ran headlines linking childhood trauma to migraines, cancer, and autoimmune disease. Numerous cities across America (such as New Orleans and Baltimore) started initiatives to protect children from trauma induced brain damage. Universities and schools ran training seminars to create ‘ACE-awareness’ in their staff. In 2018, first minister Nicola Sturgeon gave an introductory speech to welcome some 2,000 delegates to the first ACE-Aware Nation conference in Scotland. She noted that ACEs can ‘affect children’s physical and mental health’ and vowed to make sure that ‘an understanding of ACEs is embedded right across our services.’ All of these initiatives cited the ACE study as their ‘proof’ that childhood trauma causes addiction, disease and mental illness. 

As of 2023, the original ACE study has been cited more than 15,000 times and ‘replicated’ in hundreds, if not thousands of other studies. But few have seriously questioned its findings, or indeed the veracity of the idea that trauma permanently damages the brain. To my mind the ACE study was misleading, both in the way it presented its findings and the types of questions it asked. The results have proved to be disastrous for the mental health of our increasingly fragile younger generations. 

For example, one of the ACE study’s initial findings was that a child who experienced four or more ACE’s was twice as likely to become a smoker than a child with an ACE score of zero, and that those risks climbed with additional ACE’s. What the blurb emanating from the study didn’t emphasise however, was that only a minority of people with four or more ACEs go on to smoke (13.5 per cent). Even lower rates of prevalence were observed with injection drug use and alcoholism (3.4 and 16.1 per cent respectively). Surely, if childhood trauma is the main cause of addiction, and especially injection drug use (as has been portrayed endlessly by trauma advocates such as Dr Gabor Maté, who recently gained notoriety for his televised ‘trauma-focused’ therapy session with Prince Harry) then we should be seeing more than a 3.4 per cent prevalence rate in those most effected. What this tells us as much as anything else, is that 85 to 95 per cent of traumatised children do not go on to become addicts, alcoholics, or even smokers. 

The way the ACE study presented its findings wasn’t the only problem. There were multiple problems with the questionnaire itself. When we look at the wording of the questionnaire, what we find is that many of these so-called ‘adversities’ weren’t actually that traumatic at all. They were subjective, vague, and a virtual open invitation to self-indulgence and grievance. Take question one for example: 

‘Did a parent or other adult in the household often, or very often, swear at you, insult you, put you down, or humiliate you, or act in a way that made you afraid that you might be physically hurt?’ 

This is a hopelessly wide-ranging question. Given that the ACE questionnaire was quantitative, not qualitative, respondents could only answer yes or no. So if a respondent ‘felt like’ they had been frequently ‘put down’ by their parents during childhood, they could answer yes and would then be categorised as having suffered ‘psychological abuse’. 

Question two asked: ‘Did a parent or other adult in the household, often, or very often, push, grab, slap, or throw something at you, or ever hit you so hard that you had marks or were injured?’ 

Obviously a simple ‘yes’ leaves us completely in the dark as to whether the respondent was beaten up repeatedly by a brutal step father, or simply ‘grabbed’ on occasion by his long-suffering single mother who was fed up with him smoking dope in his room. Nevertheless, any affirmative answer scored a point for ‘physical abuse’. 

Question four was particularly weak: ‘Did you often, or very often, feel that no one in your family loved you or thought you were important or special – or [that] your family didn’t look out for each other, feel close to each other, or support each other?’ Surely this is describing the majority of the planet?  

As for the idea that childhood adversity is toxic to the brain, this is actually a radical claim with little in the way of real evidence. In his brilliant book The Trouble with Trauma, child psychiatrist Michael Scheeringa explains why evidence for the stress-damages-the-brain-theory is so thin on the ground. The only reliable evidence that would clearly demonstrate a link between trauma and subsequent changes in the brain, he says, would be a study that captures brain images before and after the trauma (a pre-trauma prospective study followed by another one after the event). Currently, there are very few of these studies due to the obvious fact that it is not ethical to induce trauma.  

Instead there are lots of cross sectional studies. These studies look at brains after the trauma has occurred, but have no way of knowing what the brain looked like before the trauma (e.g. whether the person had an undersized amygdala, over-active pre-frontal cortex, or other neurological disability which might predispose them to a heightened traumatic response). The few before and after studies that do exist seem to point towards pre-dispositional vulnerabilities. Predisposition has also, so far at least, been the most successful theory explaining other psychiatric conditions like depression, schizophrenia, anxiety and bipolar disorder. 

So the trauma damages the brain theory is the outlier here, and it is frankly incredible that governments, top tier universities, and entire professions have placed all their eggs into this big Freudian-hypothesis basket.  

The reasons for this bias are fairly obvious however. Pre-disposition points to genes, a less headline-grabbing area of study, and therefore not as useful for raising funds for trendy political healthcare projects.  

In the DSM-5 (The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition) trauma is defined as a psychiatric disorder (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) which has horrendous and unmistakable symptoms. These symptoms occur (in some individuals) after being exposed to ‘actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violence.’ Things that are certainly outside the realm of ‘normal human experience’. Psychiatrists have known this since the Vietnam war. 

Nevertheless, since the 1990s psychiatrists under the sway of social justice politics (and bolstered by the findings of the ACE study) have been attempting to nudge a more watered-down version of trauma into the DSM. This includes ‘complex-trauma’, ‘developmental-trauma’, ‘relational- trauma’, and other snappy, made-up disorders. These ‘knock-off’ versions of PTSD have proven to be scientifically unverifiable, and have been rejected for inclusion in the DSM on multiple occasions, but nevertheless, they remain incredibly popular with clinicians and the public because they like them, and because they fit with what they believe. This concept creep around trauma is a perfect example of how bad, unscientific ideas can completely capture the zeitgeist when they peddle the right narrative. 

If this politicisation of psychology is not successfully challenged, I have grave fears for what the consequences will be. If we don’t stop using the word trauma, then those who suffer from real trauma (women who’ve been raped, children who’ve been burned, soldiers who’ve been blown up by mines) will have to share their services with those who, frankly speaking, don’t deserve them. And, people with addictions and other conditions that could be turned around with the right treatment will fail, because they are being protected and wrapped up in cotton wool by health professionals who are using them to fulfil their own professional and ideological goals. This cult of trauma must be stopped.