#btr packs

[comicscdcollection]

LET'S MAKE WAVES | BIG TIME RUSH

[elitheidiot1]

he’s so prettyyyyy (I have mental illness)

[burning-thistles-bt]

Fernpaw legs shook as she stepped as quietly as she could into the apprentices' den. With a shaky intake of breath, she slowly inched forward, staring at the trembling mass of gray fur so pale, it was almost white in some lighting---but not here. No, it looked black in the dark of the den, not an inch of moonlight seeping into the thick ceiling of the apprentices' den.

She swallowed with another intake of breath, trying not to think about how loud it sounded in the... silent and too empty den. "Tulippaw?" she whispered. "Are you... are you alright?"

A shrill wail pierced through the cold midnight air and Fernpaw shrank backwards, the fur along her spine fluffing up. Her heart raced so fast she thought it had burst straight out of her chest and flopped on the ground in front of her. Her own breath stuttered then sped up, chest heaving up and down.

"They're coming for me! They're coming for me---I can feel them breathing all around me! Their jaws, their jaws!" Tulippaw screamed as he thrashed around, his eyes wide and his paws flailing out, claws slashing at the ground as they curled irregularly.

Fernpaw stepped backwards from her brother. Her entire body shook and then, suddenly, she gagged and coughed, feeling a strange, sickening, horrible feeling squeeze at her chest and throat so viscerally she might throw-up.

She saw a dark shape lurch forward from the darkness and she startled backwards, the large, towering forms of dogs flashing in her vision. "Hey, hey!" the shape said as it crouched beside Tulippaw's side---Elderpaw. Their sister. It was just their sister... just... the three of them... three... Ashpaw... "Hey, it's alright, there's no---"

Tulippaw's claws slammed into Elderpaw's side and she yowled. The sound made Fernpaw's vision so dizzy that she wasn't even aware when she had fallen to the floor.

"Fernpaw!"

Fernpaw stared at the bramble-woven wall of the den, numb and suffocating without breathing.

What... what had she done...? She had just wanted to get rid of Lionstar's dastardly offspring! Not... not...

...Oh StarClan.

Oh StarClan, oh StarClan, oh StarClan above, forgive her, please, for the thought of spending eternity suffering in the Place of No Stars was too great for her to bare.

With a horrible, sickening feeling of dread building in her chest, she realized exactly what had happened to Ravenwing when he had killed Graystripe.

And what was going to happen to her now that she had done the same.

Related.

[acute-crashout-jeyuso]

Sacrifices (Book 2 of 3 BTR Series) a Jhea Fanfic.

Chapter 26: beginning of swollen feet..

Thursday, March 6th, 2025 – 8:27 PM

“Girl, you really letting this thing ride out, huh?” Trinity teased, sitting cross-legged on the guest bed as she helped Rhea fold the stack of baby onesies laid out between them.

Rhea sat on the floor, her back against the edge of the bed, carefully smoothing out the tiny fabric in her hands. “It hurt me, Trin’,” Rhea muttered, her voice quieter than before. “What he said… it really hurt.”

Trinity sighed softly and set down the onesie she’d been folding. “I understand,” she said gently. “I heard the whole thing. And you know… it’s normal to feel like this, but don’t you miss him?”

Rhea paused, her eyes fixed on the onesie she was holding. “At night, yeah,” she admitted after a long silence. “Sometimes I wanna cave in and let him hold me, just so I can feel okay for a second. But then I squash it and remind myself I’m still mad. We sleep in the same bed, Trin, but fuck man we might as well be on different planets.”

Trinity tilted her head as she studied Rhea, concern clear in her eyes. “That doesn’t sound sustainable, Rhea. You’re not just shutting him out—you’re shutting yourself down, too.”

Rhea pressed her lips into a thin line, her shoulders tensing. “What the hell am I supposed to do? Act like everything’s okay? Like he didn’t make me feel small?”

“I’m not saying that,” Trinity replied, her tone steady. “I’m saying talk to him. For real, this time. You two are having a baby. And I’ve known you long enough to know that when you’re holding onto something this tight, it’s eating you up inside.”

Rhea rubbed her forehead and sighed. “I just… I don’t know if I’m ready to talk to him about it yet.”

Trinity leaned forward, placing a hand on Rhea’s knee. “It’s okay if you’re not ready. But don’t wait too long, Rhea. You know Jey—he’s not perfect, but he loves you. And you love him.”

Rhea didn’t respond right away, her gaze distant as if lost in her own thoughts. “I don’t know what love is supposed to look like anymore, Trin,” she whispered finally.

Trinity gave her knee a soft squeeze. “It looks like two people who keep showing up for each other, even when it’s hard.”

Rhea blinked rapidly, trying to push back the sting of tears. She let out a shaky breath. “I’ll think about it.”

“Good,” Trinity said softly, leaning back and picking up another onesie. “Now, let’s finish folding these before your little thunderstorm comes into this world already dressed to rock.”

Rhea laughed lightly despite herself, a small smile tugging at her lips. “You and Damian really gotta stop calling my kid that.”

“Not a chance,” Trinity grinned. “We’ll let Jey try to win that argument when the baby’s here.”

—

Jey carefully packaged up the gift he’d bought for Jaciyah, smoothing out the red wrapping paper before setting it on the counter. Across the room, Jon stood on a stepstool, stringing up a black and red “Happy Birthday” banner over the living room entryway.

“Man, this banner better stay up,” Jon muttered, stepping back to admire his work. “I ain’t tryin’ to redo this tomorrow.”

Jey chuckled lightly as he taped down the edges of the gift. “You act like you ain’t used to this. You’ve hung up a million birthday banners for your kids.”

Jon smirked as he stepped off the stool. “Yeah, but I’m gettin’ older now. Banner duty ain’t my thing no more.” He headed toward the kitchen, pausing to shoot Jey a pointed look. “But for real, Uce… Damian’s got a point.”

Jey sighed, his shoulders tensing as he looked up. “Man, can we not? I’m tryin’ to focus on tomorrow.”

Jon ignored him, grabbing packs of meat from the fridge and setting them by the sink. “Nah, I’m just sayin’—you’ve been messin’ up lately. Rhea’s holdin’ it down with the baby and everything else. You lucky she’s still ridin’ with you.”

Jey didn’t answer right away, his focus shifting back to the gift. “I know, man. I don’t need you tellin’ me.”

Jon turned on the water, rinsing the meat. “Well, somebody’s gotta. You can’t just keep lettin’ it slide, Jey. You’re gonna have to step up at some point.”

Jey leaned back against the counter, staring at the ceiling for a moment before muttering, “I am steppin’ up. I’m tryin’, alright?”

Jon glanced over his shoulder, his tone softening. “Tomorrow’s about Jaciyah, though. You gotta make sure he feels like the king of the world for his day, no matter what’s goin’ on with you and Rhea.”

Jey nodded, his voice quieter now. “Yeah… I got it. Tomorrow’s for my boy.”

“Good.” Jon grabbed a knife and a cutting board, starting to prep the ribs. “Now, go make sure the grill’s cleaned out. I don’t want no excuses when it’s time to throw the meat on tomorrow.”

Jey let out a small laugh, shaking his head as he grabbed the tongs from the drawer. “Ain’t nobody gonna outcook me, Uce. I got this.”

Jon smirked as he sprinkled seasoning over the meat. “We’ll see.”

As Jey headed toward the backyard to prep the grill, he let Jon’s words linger in the back of his mind. Tomorrow wasn’t about him or the tension in the house—it was about Jaciyah. His oldest boy deserved a perfect day, and Jey was determined not to let him down. Everything else could wait.

—

Rhea had just finished showering, her damp hair clinging to her shoulders as she dressed in silence. The tension between her and Jey had become a third presence in the room, unspoken but suffocating. She plugged her phone into the charger and turned off her bedside lamp, climbing into bed without so much as a glance at him.

“Goodnight,” she said softly, her back already turned to him.

Jey stared at her for a long moment, the weight of her coldness pressing on his chest. Finally, he sighed heavily, his frustration bubbling to the surface. “I’m tired of this, Rhea.”

She stiffened but didn’t turn to face him. “Tired of what?”

“This,” he said, his voice rising slightly. “This distance. Us actin’ like strangers in our own house, in our own bed.”

Rhea turned abruptly, sitting up to face him. Her eyes glinted with anger and something deeper—hurt. “What do you want me to do, Jey? Just forget everything you said? Pretend like I didn’t hear it?”

“I never said that!” he shot back, sitting up to meet her glare. “But I can’t fix it if you keep shuttin’ me out!”

Her laugh was bitter, a sharp contrast to the warmth they once shared. “Fix it? Jey, you think you can just fix this with words and gifts? You think that makes it all go away?”

“I’m tryin’, Rhea!” he snapped. “I’m here, ain’t I? I ain’t givin’ up on us, but you gotta meet me halfway!”

Rhea’s voice broke as she responded, her emotions spilling over. “Maybe there is no ‘us’ anymore, Jey! Maybe it’s better if I just raise this baby on my own!”

The room fell silent, her words hitting Jey like a punch to the gut. His eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat. “What?” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Rhea looked away, tears threatening to fall. “I can’t keep doing this. The hurt, the feeling like I’m not enough. I’m tired, Jey. And maybe it’s just better this way.”

Jey’s heart shattered as he stared at her, his hands trembling. “You’re serious?” he asked, his voice cracking. “You think I’d just let you walk away? Let you raise my baby on your own?”

Rhea’s eyes snapped back to his, her tone sharp. “It’s not your baby, Jey. It’s my baby.”

That was it. The breaking point. Realizing his mistakes for the first time, his jaw clenched and he leaned closer, his voice firm but laced with pain. “You know what? You’re wrong. It ain’t just your baby—it’s our baby, Rhea. Yours and mine.”

Rhea shook her head, tears streaming down her face. “You don’t get it, Jey. You don’t understand how much this hurts.”

“I do,” he said, his voice softening as he reached for her hand, though she pulled away. “I know I messed up, and I’ll regret it every damn day. But I love you, Rhea. I love you and this baby, and I’ll be damned if I let you shut me out.”

Rhea’s lip quivered as she looked at him, her defenses crumbling under the weight of his words. “Jey…”

“I’m not givin’ up on us,” he said firmly, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. “I’ll fight for you, for us, for this family. But you gotta let me in, Rhea. You gotta let me try.”

She covered her face with her hands, sobbing quietly. Jey moved closer, hesitating for a moment before wrapping his arms around her. This time, she didn’t pull away.

“I’m scared, Jey,” she admitted through her tears. “I’m so scared.”

“I know, baby,” he whispered, holding her tightly. “But we’ll get through this. Together. I promise.”

Jey pulled back from the embrace just enough to look into Rhea’s tear-streaked face, his hands cradling her cheeks. His voice was steady, full of conviction. “You’re gonna be my wife someday, Rhea. I’ll be damned if I let you leave like this. We’re gonna be together—through it all—until we’re old and gray. Because my feelings for you never changed. I love you, Rhea.”

Rhea stared at him, her breath hitching as his words sank in. She saw the sincerity in his eyes, the unwavering love he still carried for her despite everything. Her walls crumbled completely. Without thinking, she leaned in, her lips crashing against his in a desperate, passionate kiss.

It wasn’t just a kiss—it was everything. All the pain, the longing, the nights spent apart, the unspoken apologies, and the love that refused to die. She clung to him, her fingers curling into his shirt as if anchoring herself to the one person who had always been her safe haven, even in their darkest moments.

Jey responded just as fervently, his arms wrapping around her, pulling her impossibly closer. The warmth of her lips, the way she melted into him—it was everything he’d been yearning for. He kissed her as if trying to prove every word he’d just said, pouring his heart into each moment their lips met.

When they finally pulled away, both of them were breathless, their foreheads resting against each other. Rhea’s voice was shaky but firm. “I don’t want to do this without you, Jey. I’m just so scared of losing us again.”

“You won’t lose me,” he promised, his thumb brushing against her cheek. “We’ve been through too much, baby. We’ll figure this out. Together.”

Rhea nodded, her tears drying as a small smile broke through. “I love you,” she whispered.

“I love you more,” Jey replied, his lips grazing hers again in a softer, more tender kiss.

For the first time days, the weight on both their shoulders felt lighter. They weren’t fixed—there were still cracks and scars—but they were together, and that was the foundation they needed to start rebuilding.

—

Friday March 7th, 2025 7:11 AM

The next morning, Jeyce sprinted toward the lamppost at the end of his street, his backpack bouncing on his shoulders. As he reached the familiar spot, he spotted Demi already waiting for him. She was leaning casually against the pole, dressed in her usual edgy style—a black Motionless in White band shirt, snug gray jeans, and a pair of well-worn purple Converse. Her matching purple butterfly lunch bag hung from her shoulder, likely filled with the snacks she always packed for them to share.

When Demi noticed Jeyce approaching, her face lit up with a bright smile. “Took you long enough,” she teased playfully, tucking a strand of her dyed lavender hair behind her ear.

“Blame my dad for that,” Jeyce replied, smirking as he came to a stop in front of her. “He wouldn’t stop giving me that ‘man of the house’ talk again.”

Demi giggled. “Sounds like Jey.”

Without hesitation, the two leaned in for a quick, shy peck on the lips—something they had started doing since officially becoming a couple. Jeyce felt a rush of warmth in his chest, and judging by the blush on Demi’s cheeks, she felt the same.

“Ready for another thrilling day at school?” Jeyce asked sarcastically as the bus came into view.

Demi rolled her eyes. “Totally. Algebra’s just been fhe highlight of my week.”

Jeyce laughed and adjusted his backpack. “Hey, at least we’ll survive together.”

“True.” She grinned, looping her arm through his as the bus pulled to a stop in front of them.

As they boarded, the two settled into their usual seat in the middle of the bus, chatting about anything and everything—school, music, their weekend plans. For Jeyce, these moments with Demi made the school day something to actually look forward to.

Meanwhile, Jey and Rhea stood under the warm spray of the shower, the steam curling around them like a soft veil. It had been days since they shared such a moment of quiet intimacy, and for Jey, it felt like a piece of what they’d been missing had finally returned. He let the water run down his back as his eyes settled on Rhea.

Her fifteen-week bump was more noticeable now, a gentle curve that seemed to reflect the life growing inside her. She stood with her head tilted back, letting the water cascade over her shoulders, her skin glowing in a way that Jey couldn’t help but admire.

“You’re glowing,” he said softly, his voice just loud enough to rise above the sound of the water.

Rhea opened her eyes and gave him a small, tired smile. “I feel huge already,” she said, resting a hand protectively over her belly.

Jey chuckled, shaking his head. “Nah, you look perfect.”

He reached out and gently placed his palm against her belly, feeling the warmth of her skin. His touch was tender, reverent, as if he were connecting not just with Rhea, but with the life they had created together. Without thinking, he leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, then another on her lips.

Rhea sighed into the kiss, her hands coming up to rest lightly on his chest. For a moment, everything else—the tension, the arguments, the lingering doubts—seemed to wash away with the water.

“I missed this,” Jey admitted, his voice thick with emotion. “I missed you, baby. I know I’ve said it a hundred times, but I’ll keep saying it until you believe me.”

Rhea looked up at him, her green eyes searching his face. “I’m trying, Jey,” she whispered. “I really am.”

He leaned his forehead against hers, his hand never leaving her belly. “That’s all I ask. Just… don’t give up on me. On us. I need you, Rhea.”

A tear slid down Rhea’s cheek, quickly lost in the spray of the shower. “I won’t,” she promised, her voice trembling.

Jey kissed her again, more deeply this time, pouring every ounce of his love and determination into the gesture. It wasn’t just a kiss—it was a vow, unspoken but deeply felt.

For the first time in days, it felt like they were truly connected again.

Rhea and Jey stepped out of the shower, the warmth of the water still lingering on their skin. Jey walked over to the sink to grab a towel, tossing Rhea one as he met her eyes with a soft smile. She returned it but was already focused on getting dressed.

Rhea took her time, drying off and starting to pull on her black cargo pants. She slipped into her black vintage Jey shirt, the one he’d given her as a joke during a road trip, but now it fit her with a special significance. She slid on her black Vans, but as she stood up to look at herself in the mirror, she noticed they felt a little tighter than usual.

“Ugh,” she muttered under her breath, adjusting her shoes. The pressure on her feet was starting to build. The early signs of swelling had begun, and it only irritated her further. She bent down and rubbed at her feet, trying to ease the discomfort, but there wasn’t much she could do.

Jey, noticing her struggle, walked over with a frown. “You okay?”

Rhea sighed and rolled her eyes. “Yeah, just the beginning of swollen feet. Gonna be a long day.”

Jey chuckled, though the sound was warm and full of concern. “You’re gonna need more comfy shoes soon, huh?”

She gave him a sarcastic smirk. “I swear, you’re the last person I want to hear that from.”

Jey raised an eyebrow and gave her a teasing look. “What? You don’t want your loving fiancé to remind you to take care of yourself?”

Rhea shook her head but couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at her lips. She appreciated the attention, even if it was wrapped in humor.

“Alright, alright, I’ll take it easy today,” she said, giving in. “But only because Jaciyah’s birthday is today and I’m not missing it..”

“Good. We’ve got a whole night planned for him. He deserves a great birthday,” Jey replied, looking over at the time on his phone. “I’ll make sure everything’s ready here. You just focus on him.”

Rhea nodded, her eyes softening as she thought about their son. Despite everything that had happened recently, she wanted to make this day special for Jaciyah. “Thank you,” she said quietly, her voice full of affection.

Jey smiled and leaned in, pressing a quick kiss to her forehead. “Anything for you, baby.”

As they finished getting ready, Rhea still felt the slight ache in her feet but pushed it aside. Today wasn’t about her discomfort—it was about making sure Jaciyah had the best birthday he could have. And for that, she’d give it everything she had.

Despite the discomfort in her swollen feet, Rhea made her way down the stairs with a soft smile on her face. The moment she entered the kitchen, the sight of the yellow cake in the display made her feel a sense of pride. It was the final touch to Jaciyah’s birthday celebration. She pulled out the chocolate frosting and began to carefully cover the cake, her movements slow but deliberate.

Trinity was already downstairs, busy at the counter baking Jaciyah’s favorite—brown butter chocolate chunk cookies. The sweet scent of freshly baked cookies filled the air, making Rhea’s stomach growl despite her discomfort.

“This boy, all he wants is sweets,” Rhea remarked with a laugh, as she spread the frosting evenly on the cake.

Trinity chuckled, shaking her head. “That’s your bonus son for you.”

Rhea smirked, but the smile softened as she looked over at Trinity. “Where is he, actually?” she asked, curious.

“He’s at his job,” Trinity replied. “Went in early so he could leave early. Wanted to get the day started and have some time for himself later.”

Rhea nodded as she finished the last corner of the cake. “Of course, he’s growing up too fast,” she muttered, almost to herself, as she set the frosting knife down.

The kitchen was filled with the sound of cookies being scooped onto a baking sheet. Rhea grabbed her backpack and keys, ready to head out for work.

“I’ll see you guys later when I get off,” Rhea said, throwing Trinity a quick smile.

“Have a good day at work, babes!” Trinity called, her hands busy but her eyes warm as she waved Rhea off.

Rhea smiled as she pulled on her jacket, feeling the warmth of her family around her even as she headed out the door. It wasn’t the easiest of days, but moments like this made everything worth it. She was grateful for the love and support, even if it was just the little things like frosting a birthday cake or baking cookies in the morning.

As she stepped out the door and into her car, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of hope for the day ahead. No matter how challenging things might get, she had her family, and they were always there to help her through it.

—

10:26 AM

Jeyce grabbed his science book and stuffed it into his locker, glancing at the little details that decorated the inside of the door. His eyes softened at the printed selfie of him and Demi, her wide grin and his shy smile captured perfectly in the picture. Just as he smiled to himself, his phone lit up with a notification.

Before he could check it, a tap on his shoulder pulled his attention. He turned to see Demi standing there, her excitement almost tangible.

“Did you see what I sent you?” she asked, practically bouncing on her toes.

“I just opened my locker,” Jeyce replied with a laugh. “Give me a second!”

“Well, hurry up and look!” she said, nudging him playfully.

Jeyce unlocked his phone and opened her text message. It was a flyer for a Motionless in White listening party tomorrow at CD Master Copy. His brows furrowed until Demi grinned and pointed at the screen.

“Check the bottom! Zoom in!”

Doing as she said, Jeyce squinted at the tiny print at the bottom: “With an appearance from lead vocalist Chris ‘Motionless’ Cerulli.”

“No way,” he muttered, eyes widening.

“Yes way! He decided to make a last minute appearance!” Demi said, her excitement bubbling over. “And guess what? My mom got four tickets! Two for you and Jaciyah, and two for me and Daya!”

Jeyce grinned, his enthusiasm matching hers. “That’s awesome. I can’t believe we’re gonna meet Chris Cerulli in person!”

“I know, right?” Demi said, practically squealing. “We’ll pick you and Jaciyah up tomorrow morning. I was thinking we could grab breakfast first, then head to the store.”

“Sounds perfect,” Jeyce said, sliding his phone into his pocket. He leaned against his locker and smirked. “You always know how to make things fun, huh?”

“That’s kind of my specialty,” Demi said with a playful shrug. She reached for his hand, giving it a quick squeeze before letting go. “Now get to class before you’re late!”

Jeyce laughed, watching her walk away, her purple butterfly lunch bag swinging at her side. Shaking his head with a smile, already looking forward to the weekend ahead.

As Jeyce grabbed his English book, a rough shove sent him slamming into his locker. He turned to see Bart—the flunkie and Demi’s ex. Bart stood there with a smug look, towering over most of the seventh graders in the hall since he’d been held back a year.

“Still wasting your time with Demi?” Bart sneered, loud enough for nearby students to hear. “Guess nobody told you she’s just practicing until she finds someone better.”

Jeyce squared his shoulders, his hands balling into fists. “Back off, Bart.”

Bart laughed, stepping closer. “What’s the matter? Truth hurt? Ask anyone. Before me, Demi was all over Sam last year—said she’d still be with him if his parents didn’t make him switch schools.”

“That’s not true!” Jeyce snapped, his voice rising. He glanced around, noticing a few students stopping to listen.

Bart shrugged, his grin widening. “Oh, it’s true. She’s got a type, you know—whoever’ll fall for her ‘poor me’ act. Thought you were smarter than that, but I guess not.”

Jeyce stepped forward, his jaw tight. “Don’t talk about her like that. You don’t know anything about her.”

Bart’s grin turned into a mocking smirk. “I know enough. Like how she’ll dump you the second someone cooler comes along.” He turned to the crowd that had gathered. “What do you guys think? Should we take bets on how long it’ll take?”

Laughter rippled through the group, and Jeyce’s blood boiled. He could feel the heat rising in his chest. “Shut up, Bart!”

Bart shoved Jeyce’s shoulder. “Or what? You gonna fight me? Demi’s not worth it, dude.”

Jeyce snapped. “She’s worth more than you’ll ever be!” He swung, his fist connecting with Bart’s shoulder.

The hallway exploded into chaos. Bart stumbled back but quickly recovered, tackling Jeyce into the lockers. “You think you’re tough, huh?”

Jeyce struggled against him, shoving him off and throwing another punch that landed on Bart’s jaw. Bart retaliated, grabbing Jeyce’s shirt and yanking him forward.

“Stop it! Leave him alone!”

Jeyce heard Demi’s voice, but it only fueled his anger. He pushed Bart off him, shoving him hard against the lockers. “Keep her name out of your mouth!”

Bart swung again, but Jeyce ducked, grabbing him by the shirt and slamming him back. The crowd around them was yelling, some cheering, others calling for a teacher.

“What is going on here?!”

The booming voice of Mr. Daniels broke through the chaos. The crowd scattered as the teacher stormed forward, pulling Jeyce and Bart apart. “Fighting? In my hallway? Both of you—principal’s office. Now!”

Jeyce was still breathing hard, his shirt wrinkled and his knuckles sore. Bart smirked, rubbing his jaw as they were escorted down the hall.

As they walked, Bart leaned over, his voice low and taunting. “She’s going to ditch you, Jeyce. Just like she ditched me. You’ll see.”

Jeyce didn’t reply, but the fire in his eyes burned brighter. He knew Demi better than anyone, and no lies from Kevin were going to change that.

—

Meanwhile, Jey, Trinity, and Jon were lounging in the living room, watching The Sopranos. The dim glow of the television cast flickering shadows across the room as the sound of Carmela’s sharp voice filled the space. Barry and Bella, the family’s loyal dogs, lay sprawled out beside Jey on the couch, their tails occasionally thumping when Jey absentmindedly scratched behind their ears.

Trinity was perched on the arm of the recliner where Jon sat, both sipping on glasses of sweet tea and sharing quiet commentary about the show. Jey, however, was half-watching, his phone resting on his thigh as he absentmindedly scrolled through emails.

The quiet was interrupted by the sharp buzz of Jey’s phone. The screen lit up with a familiar number, and he furrowed his brow. “Hold on, y’all,” he muttered, picking up the call.

“Hello?”

“Mr. Fatu, this is Vanessa from the Mead Middle School division,” a crisp, professional voice began on the other end.

Jey sat up straighter, immediately alert. “Uh, yeah, this is him. What’s this about?”

“I’m calling regarding another incident involving Jeyce,” Vanessa said, her tone both apologetic and firm.

Jey rubbed his forehead, already bracing himself. “What happened now?”

“There was an altercation between Jeyce and another student this afternoon,” Vanessa explained. “It appears there was some kind of disagreement that escalated into a physical fight. Both boys have been sent home, and we’ve scheduled a meeting with the principal to discuss disciplinary action. We’d like for you to attend on Monday morning.”

Jey closed his eyes, letting out a heavy sigh. Trinity and Jon had paused the show, both of them watching him with concern.

“Is he okay and my son takes the bus, how is he getting home?” Jey asked, his voice strained but calm.

“Jeyce is fine, though it seems he’s a bit shaken up and we’ve contacted a Demi Bennett, she said she is on her way.” Vanessa replied. “But this is the second incident we’ve had involving him recently, and we’re growing concerned. We’ll need to address this more formally during the meeting.”

Jey clenched his jaw, nodding even though she couldn’t see him. “Alright. Monday morning. What time?”

“Eight o’clock sharp,” Vanessa said. “We’ll see you then, Mr. Fatu.”

“Thanks for the call,” Jey said shortly before hanging up.

He dropped the phone onto the couch beside him and leaned forward, rubbing his temples.

“What’s going on?” Trinity asked, sliding off the recliner and sitting beside him.

“Jeyce got into another fight,” Jey muttered, his frustration evident. “They want me at the school Monday for a meeting.”

Jon let out a low whistle. “Man, that boy’s got fire in him, just like his old man.”

Jey shot him a look, not amused. “Not the time, Jon.”

Trinity rested a hand on Jey’s shoulder. “What was it about?”

“They didn’t say much, just that it was a fight. Second one already…” He let out another sigh, shaking his head. “I swear, he’s been acting up ever since we moved here. I don’t know if it’s the school or something else, but I need to get to the bottom of it.”

Trinity gave him a reassuring squeeze. “You’re doing your best, Jey. He’s a good kid, just going through something. You’ll figure it out.”

Jey didn’t respond immediately, his mind already racing through how he’d approach the situation with Jeyce. Barry nudged his leg, and he reached down to pet the dog absentmindedly, wishing for a moment of peace that felt increasingly out of reach.

—

Rhea pulled up to Mead Primary School, her frustration mounting as she spotted Jeyce sitting on a bench near the entrance, his head bowed. Beside him stood the secretary, Vanessa, holding a clipboard and wearing an expression of polite concern.

Rhea put the car in park, sighed deeply, and got out. Her vans hit the pavement with a determined stride as she approached the pair.

“Jeyce,” she said sternly, her hands resting on her hips. “What did you do now?”

Jeyce didn’t respond, keeping his eyes fixed on the ground.

Vanessa cleared her throat. “We’ve already contacted Jeyce’s father about the situation, Ms. Bennett.”

“Well, I’m his stepmother,” Rhea replied firmly, crossing her arms. “So what did my son do this time?”

Vanessa adjusted her clipboard. “He was involved in another altercation with a fellow student. It seems this incident escalated into something physical. This is the second time—”

Rhea held up a hand, cutting her off. “On your brother’s birthday, really, Jeyce?” she said, her tone dripping with disbelief as she fixed him with a sharp glare.

Jeyce finally looked up, guilt written across his face. “He was saying stuff about Demi,” he muttered, his voice guilty.

Rhea sighed, crouching down slightly to meet him at eye level. “What kind of stuff?”

“He’s lying about her,” Jeyce said, his tone defensive now. “Saying she flirts with other guys and cheats on me. It’s not true, and I’m not gonna let him talk about her like that.”

Rhea closed her eyes briefly, pinching the bridge of her nose. “And you think throwing punches is the way to fix that?”

Jeyce shrugged, his defiance slipping as guilt crept back in. “I didn’t start it.”

Vanessa chimed in. “Regardless of who started it, Mr. Fatu, the situation needs to be addressed. We’ve scheduled a meeting with the principal on Monday morning to discuss next steps.”

Rhea straightened up and nodded. “Fine. We’ll be there. But for now,” she turned back to Jeyce, “get in the car. Your father will be having a serious talk with you when we get home.”

Jeyce stood up reluctantly, slinging his backpack over his shoulder as he trudged toward the car.

Rhea looked back at Vanessa. “Thanks for letting us know. We’ll handle it.”

Vanessa nodded, her expression sympathetic. “We’ll see you Monday.”

Rhea got back in the car, her fingers gripping the steering wheel tightly as Jeyce sat in silence beside her.

“You’re lucky I came instead of your dad,” she said after a moment. “He told me he is already frustrated about this whole thing. You need to start thinking about the consequences of your actions, Jeyce.”

Jeyce stayed quiet, staring out the window, his jaw tight.

[partiallypearl]

her sense of style, it really rocks (lucy stone in the style of claudia kishi)

a/n: this, my friends is the result of a roadtrip to montana, a very bored pearl, and my slight obsession with lucy stone, early 2000s pop punk, and how female characters get mistreated in childrens tv shows. trigger warning for mention of beau being a jerk (him trying to take things too far and lucy saying no), parental neglect, and general teen angst.

taglist: @myloveforhergoeson @raging-violets @ceruleanmusings @zackmartin @fiyero3305 @icegirl2772 @selangkir @cant-get-enough-btr-forever @bishounenbtr

lucy stone finds the linda lindas when she’s 12 and has a realization of “oh. that’s what i want to be”.

she spends the next 6 years playing the dutiful daughter her parents want while listening to paramore and all time low and sleeping with sirens in between piano, violin and cello classes.

she dates beau because her mom keeps talking about how nice that lillis boy is, and how she’s so sad that lucy doesn’t have a nice sweet boyfriend like him.

the first time beau tries to take things further than lucy’s comfortable with, she goes home and listens to avril lavigne’s don’t tell me, on repeat for two hours.

she never tells her mom what happened that time. or the next.

she stays with him because honestly in their small town, he’s the only boy she really feels comfortable with, and because breaking up with a lillis boy is like dumping a kennedy - you just don’t do it.

so they play the part of the perfect couple, lucy going to all of his football games and acting like she doesn’t hate how all the cheerleaders fawn over him, and beau going to her violin concerts, acting like he actually cares and isn’t texting whitney cooper from up his block.

the night lucy turns 18, she packs everything she owns into three bags, and looks up directions for the palm woods - a hotel for up and coming stars. she has $2000 in cash, her belongings, and the guitar her wai po bought her for her 14th birthday despite her parents dislike of the instrument.

“you are music itself,” wai po had said in her soft voice. “my lucy. my musician. don’t let your parents hold you back. promise me that.”

and she did. 4 years later, she was fulfilling that promise. no matter what happened.

lucy takes one last look at her childhood and blows a silent kiss to it. she gets into her dad’s old ford F250 lariat, and plugs in a mixtape cd that she had scribbled, lucy’s getaway soundtrack, onto and as she peels out of the drive at 2:38 in the morning, collapsed by aly and aj starts blaring out of the speakers.

she gets to la, a day and a half later. she takes a pit stop at a super 8, and runs into a rite aid and gets cherry red hair dye and a bottle of root beer.

it takes two hours to dye the streaks in her hair, and to make her feel like she can actually go outside with her new look.

she looks in the mirror and sees the red in her hair and her first thought is, i look like me. and that, is what makes her break.

not the fact that she’s 2,342.0 miles from home, or that she never technically broke up with beau or that she’s trying to keep a dead woman’s promise, but that she looks and feels like herself.

she cries for what feels like forever before she shakes her head and begins to pull herself together.

“you are lucy stone.” she tells herself, “rockstar extraordinaire. you’re not lucy from laurens, south carolina anymore. this won’t break you.”

she leaves the super 8 and finds a goodwill two blocks away and spends $250 on a brand new wardrobe. she buys rock band shirts, skinny jeans, and low neck tops that would give her mother a stroke. she buys necklaces to layer, and skull rings.

an older woman, with whispy blonde hair smiles at her in the jewelry aisle. “trying out a new look?” she asks, and lucy bites her lip before nodding. “i wish i had the guts to do that. but an oldster like me? not an option.”

she pauses looking at lucy with a critical eye before she gently places her hand on lucy’s shoulder. “you’ll be okay kid. trust me on that.”

and for some reason lucy does.

[btr-rewatch]

Big Time Rush Season 1, Episode 14: “Big Time Dance”

Highlights: Lots of weirdness happening as the guys set up the first annual Palm Woods School Dance. Also, the first appearance of our friend Fabio!

It's the end of the year, and finals week is wrapping up at the Palm Woods School. After announcing the upcoming, notoriously boring class party, BTR suggests that they have a dance. A real one, with music and dates and NOT Bitters making awful balloon animals. Mrs. Collins agrees, but there are a few small obstacles to overcome first, such as the fact that they need to find chaperones, come up with a theme and decorations, get food, and find a place to hold the dance by that night. Oh, and there's no money available to spend on it.

The boys will find a way to pull it off, though.

Btw, this classroom is absolutely ridiculous. Those desks are packed together so tightly that I'm almost certain it's against both room occupancy regulations and fire code.

Look at that tiny sliver of space between Kendall's and James's desks. If there was an emergency, none of these kids would be able to promptly and safely evacuate without stumbling over desks and backpacks. They'd probably end up trampling each other. So many violations happening in this room. There's no way this classroom setup is legal.

After school ends, the guys get to work planning the dance. Jo is happy when she spots Kendall approaching, as she naturally assumes that he's going to ask her to be his date. Though, if you recall "Big Time Party," you know that his approach to inviting Jo in that episode involved asking her to be his, "guest, friend, person-thing." Quite frankly, Jo's hopes shouldn't be so high.

Somehow, Kendall manages to do an even worse job this time around and simply tells Jo to get snacks and sodas for the dance. Jo's reaction is understandable.

She's trying so hard to remember why she has a crush on this guy.

After being told by Bitters that they can't have the dance at the Palm Woods, Logan does some quick research and finds them a great deal at a warehouse in L.A.'s "Murder District." (they decide to pass on this deal)

Surprisingly, Gustavo says they can have the dance at Rocque Records under the condition that they perform at it. They agree, then run off to find dates. Well, James, Carlos, and Logan do. Kendall tries to be responsible and wants to find chaperones. Carlos strikes out with each of the Jennifers, then heads to the park to ask any other girls he can find. James decides to help Logan ask out Camille.

He also mentions that Camille's a good choice because she isn't his (James's) type, and can I just say that I kind of disagree with that? In fact, Camille might be the most compatible girl for James in terms of the recurring female characters we see on the show. She's just as high-maintenance, emotional, and passionate as he is, and I think they could have had an interesting relationship.

Or maybe they're too much alike and would have ended up killing each other. Idk.

Logan musters up every ounce of confidence he has within him and manages to do this

Commendable attempt, Logie.

Over in 2J, Mrs. Knight agrees to chaperone the dance, then loses her cool and promptly flees the scene when Katie suggests she should find a date to bring. Kendall asks when the last time was that their mother went on a date, and Katie says when she was three.

Not gonna delve TOO deeply into the Knight family headcanons, but for Mama Knight to have been in the dating world when Katie was that young, it means Mr. Knight had been out of the picture for quite some time already. Probably just after (or even a little before) Katie was born?

Meanwhile, Carlos is at the park, looking at girls through binoculars like a weirdo.

The Jennifers approach and tell him that they want to be his date to the dance. Except they don't want him to go as himself. Instead, they've all prepared alternate personalities that he must embody and rotate through during the night. Very normal behavior.

Gonna skim over some stuff because this episode has so many different storylines going on at once, but basically: Carlos is roped into being three difference people at the dance, James keeps inadvertently inviting random girls to be his date while trying to help Logan, and Logan manages to ask Camille out with the aid of cue cards, but she turns him down because she doesn't want his invitation to be coached.

Additionally, Kendall and Katie are struggling to find their mom a date. After almost setting her up with Bitters and bombarding her with a plethora of attention from a horde of handsome doctors, she tells them she'll only go on a date with the man who is on the cover of one of her romance novels. Of course, she does this assuming it'll be an impossible task for them, but nothing is impossible for Kendall and Katie.

They're adorable and I love them so much

They head down to the lobby to use the computer to track down Fabio (Kendall doesn't have his own laptop??) and I can't get over the way Kendall just shoves the guy already seated at the computer out of the way.

This is some First Episode Kendall behavior, honestly.

They manage to get in touch with Fabio, hold him hostage in the bathroom, and convince him to go out with their mom. Kendall also fumbles another opportunity to ask Jo to the dance, and Logan faces several other failures trying to ask Camille.

We go the dance later that night, where Carlos quickly crumbles under the pressure of being three different guys and ends up with Stephanie. I always really liked her btw, and I wish she would have stayed on the show as Carlos's long-term girlfriend. They were cute together.

Logan finally finds success in asking Camille to be his date.

Kendall finds Jo and asks her to dance, but Jo is still upset at the fact that Kendall never actually invited her to be his date. Kendall replies that he didn't ask because he just assumed they were already together. It's sweet, but I think these two need to work on their communication skills.

The guys perform "Stuck" (great song), James gets chased by the angry mob of girls he accidentally asked out over the course of the day, and we close the episode with everyone having fun on the dance floor.

Cannot believe so many shenanigans unfolded over the course of just a handful of hours. I wonder if time doesn't progress in the same way in the BTR universe as it does in the Real World. I mean, as it is, their world is barely governed by the same rules and basic scientific principles as our own is. Impossible scenarios are just everyday occurances to them, and absolutely absurd happenings don't even make them blink.

Honestly, the world of BTR is a scary one. Gustavo's marketing team shock-tests people for research. Sexist coffee makers try to murder you with foam. Doctor Hollywood is out there actually giving people medical advice. Children are packed in school rooms like sardines, with no hope of escape if a fiery inferno consumes the building.

Well...anyway! Silly episode! See you next time :)

[myloveforhergoeson]

ash's july 2024 reading round up

find all the books and fics i read this month under the cut with a link to the synopsis and my reviews/ratings attached :)

this is just for fun! i'm not a professional, i just like to read <3

booklist:

Bride by Ali Hazelwood (18+!)

• aside from the fact that the main character's name is misery, i well and truly enjoyed this book!! i'm such a sucker for any type of vampire-related story, and i absolutely loved what ali hazelwood did in terms of worldbuilding! the implications of human-werewolf-vampyre politics were so interesting, yet easy to understand, and unlike that of any other story i've read. it tied in well to the reasons for vampyre misery's marriage of convenience to the alpha were lowe and had major implications for the overall plot of the story as well. i loved the mystery element and the romance felt so natural and unforced. in reading almost all of hazelwood's other books, i did have a small idea of the formula her stories usually follow, so i was able to clue into some of the twists a bit early, but even then, the mystery just kept unraveling and unraveling and it still kept me hooked until the very end! even with my correct guesses, there was even more i didn't clue into until the very end and i looooved it so much! so unexpected! misery and serena were such a cute and accurate description of best friends. each word of the use "bleech" (bitch + leech - vampyre name calling) was just so funny to me for whatever reason. misery's character development over the course of the story was fascinating, watching her come from a cold and uncaring vampyre society into the interconnected pack mentality of the were's was incredible. all of her actions with lowe's little sister anna melted my heart and exemplified the changes misery was going through to be the person she wanted to be! and of course, her and lowe were so electric and steamy, despite coming from two different worlds and their dedication to each other and their goals was staggering. such a wonderful read, could not recommend enough! i was super worried the supernatural and otherworldly elements would fall flat because hazelwood has thus far written contemporary romance, but i really can't emphasize enough the intricacies and care she put into this one; it really shines through :)

• rating: 5/5 jars of peanut butter

fic list:

first, one i forgot on my list from last month - sorry!

Music of the Spheres, or, Reading is FUNdamental by ItsyRoyal

• SUCH A CUTE JAMES/LOGAN (jagan? lomes? talk about rarepair) fic about learning and music and love and ugh i read it like three times over im just obsessed. highly, highly recommend this lovely story

2. A Million Little Things by @btr-rewatch

• god these boys... the most adorable story about the boys pre-canon highlighting the importance of their friendship <3 kendall gets into a fight defending the other boys from a bully and they rally together to take care of him 😭 some of the best characterization of the boys ever and the displays of care are so them but so tender and ugh. i said this in the comment i left but i feel like btrtv loses a lot of importance on their friendship when the shenanigans come out to play; it was sweet to read here <3

3. Assorted works of @selangkir <333

• Continuation of their Jo/Lucy fic!

• katie & gustavo blurb!

the way you write these familiar characters with your own personal flare never ceases to amaze me. i always think you capture them perfectly and the stories you share always emotionally impact me so deeply. the jo/lucy fic has me kicking my feet and giggling and god i love them so much and i can't wait to read more. the katie & gustavo fic was so funny and heartwarming. the way you see them is so unique and we are lucky you want to share <3

4. Assorted works of @ceruleanmusings :)))

• Big Time Girlfriends - Carlos & Sammi

• No Idea; 1: Miscalculation

• .8

• .9

• Blood Diamond Prologue + Year One

• you had me at pie - mickames

• in sickness and in health - mickames

friend... what can i say that i haven't already? Impeccable storytelling every single time you open your preferred writing platform; i always feel like im right there in the scene with the characters. sensory description is like your bread and butter and i'm just in awe every time you share something. bt girlfriends was so cute - i don't know much about your version of carlos or much about sammi, but the scene at the carnival with the two of them was just adorable. they're such good friends and i love how they're able to help each other out :) miscalculation is gutwrenching, but james and mrs. knight sitting down to have that conversation was necessary and so well navigated. your take on brooke had me screaming into my pillow btw... blood diamond was an incredible read - love baby james <3 and the two mickames stories... god they get me every time. the way you combine the romantic elements with points of mickey and james' pasts and emotions just kills me. truly some of the best writing in the world and i'm not just saying that because i love them so much! the thought you put into your work is always evident and i hope one day i can tell my own stories even half as good as you <3

5. Assorted works of @partiallypearl

• wake up, sunshine

• may you always know you have my hand to hold

• btr girls blurb

• life's what you make it (so let's make it rock)

• hey, hot stuff

pearl!!! ahh!!!!!! the way you were able to take random and simple one-word prompts and turn them into literal works of art is just astounding to me!!! the small three blurb collection was so sweet and showed off the characters personalities so well in such few words. coming from someone literally incapable of writing anything short that just amazes me. i also couldn't get enough of the carlos & logan story gah the boys get me every time... it goes back to what i said in point two lol, the display of their friendship is so uplifting to see and you've just mastered it. and the lucy/logan fic... lots to consider here... i just can't get enough of you and your work!! <3

6. Assorted works of @icegirl2772

• Brontide + Sphallolalia blurb

i know you are busy living your life and working and everything so i will sit and wait patiently for more kaelyn and james content until the end of forever. happy to accept the tiniest of blurbs about them and this one was just too cute! ty for indulging me hehe <3

7. Assorted works of @cant-get-enough-btr-forever

• Big Time Amnesia

!!!! i love your stories so much !!!!! top tier characterization, hilarious dialogue, character-driven stories... god you've got it all up in there. while i'm not typically a fan of the amnesia trope, the way you worked it into the story just had me hooked; poor carlos and his new British ways... and the end had me laughing out loud tbh i know how you feel about logan and his southern accent so the personal touch there made it all the better! tysm for sharing yet another incredible story <3

8. A Field of Blooming Tulips by @bunnyfern

admittedly i was a bit worried the first time i read this story, but after the rework i'm enjoying the story you're developing so much! all the bits and pieces you throw in about crowe have me dying to know more about her and her past, her likes and her dislikes, and seeing her grow and change to fit into her new environment is very well done! she and james 👀 though quite different already have a little spark of chemistry and i'm excited to see where the story takes them!!!

9. MY OWN DAMN STORY

unfortunately i've been reading my own story more than i've been writing my story. rames fan #1 isn't producing rames content fast enough to keep up with her own demand... help!!!!!

[ithinkyouhealedmyheart]

30 Days of November

taglist: @myloveforhergoeson @partiallypearl @inkameswetrust (you really liked the idea)

12. Gloomy

The last thing Ashlynn wanted to do in the rain was walk home from work. The weather app on her phone had lied to her, and she hadn't packed an umbrella in her backpack. She also needed a warm coat. Watching the world from the cafe window, she frowned. The sky was grey, and rain pattered down in an erratic rhythm. No light would peek past those clouds.

"Can't you ask your boyfriend to pick you up?" Mark asked, wiping down the counter for the twentieth time. Some Karen had thrown her cold drink at him for some stupid reason.

"Boyfriend? I don't- Carlos is not my boyfriend." She furrowed her brows and crossed her arms.

"The fact he spends every other day here in the same spot by the window says otherwise." Her boss chuckled and took off his patron. "Or, I could drive you home."

"I appreciate the offer, but I'll wait out the rain."

"Ash, it's going to rain all day," Mickey said. Her hair was braided with various colors; she was sporting a rainbow.

"Okay, then I'll walk." Ash sighed and tugged her backpack tight on her shoulders.

The bell was atop the door, and she didn't turn to look at who entered the cafe. The dark-haired girl was focused on the steady rain. She could hear it tap against the gutters and rattle down the side of the building. It was louder than anyone expected but could quickly fade into the ambiance.

"Or, I could drive you."

Her ears perked, and she turned around. At the same time, he always arrived after work at Rocque Records and was the helmet-wearing singer from the boyband Big Time Rush. Carlos Garcia. Ash jumped and whirled around.

"Technically, it would be Logan driving you because I don't have my permit yet, and you would probably be squished in the back with me and James..." Now that he said his inside thoughts aloud, he started thinking it through.

It was a sweet gesture, and at this point, she would take anything instead of walking across town in the rain. Okay, across town was an exaggeration, but it was still too far to walk. She had her license but needed to get a car. The option was to ride in a car with her boss, who was more like a father figure than anything, or squish into the backseat of a BTR mobile with James and Carlos. The first option seemed comfortable, but she would have to wait for her boss to get off work; the second option would mean she was squished between two guys in an already cramped car, but it was better than waiting around and doing nothing.

"Okay."

Carlos had been rambling while she was weighing her options. He stopped mid-sentence and stared blankly at her. He was dumbfounded and maybe a little speechless. The boy floundered like a fish out of water, staring at her while she stuffed her apron into her backpack.

"I think you broke him," Mickey snickered.

"Okay!" Carlos squeaked. He couldn't contain the smile on his face. "Let me just go-" He tripped over himself as he practically ran out the door to inform his friends their seating situation would change.

Mickey snorted and laughed behind her hand. Ash chewed at the inside of her cheek. Sometimes, Carlos was like a puppy. He was so excitable and happy but also eager. It was almost like he worshipped the ground she walked on. From the window, she watched him talk to his friends. He wore a hood instead of his signature helmet, which she should have noticed when he walked in. His hands waved frantically as he presumably got his friend to move over and make room. Next thing she knew, she was squished between Carlos and James in the backseat, holding her backpack on her lap.

The brunette to her right was checking his appearance in a handheld mirror, and to her left, Carlos gave her puppy eyes. She swore there were little hearts in his eyes. But, for now, they were friends. It wasn't that she was afraid he would hurt her, but she wasn't sure if she could handle a romantic relationship. Carlos understood this despite how big of a crush he had on her.

When they go to the PalmWoods, Carlos removes his jacket and uses it like an umbrella to cover Ash from the rain. She is only an inch taller than him, so it isn't all that hard. Their proximity made her blush, but he dropped the jacket and shook off the water once inside, accidentally getting water on the carpeted floor. Thankfully, Bitters wasn't around.

"Hey, do you want to watch a movie?" Carlos asked quietly. He was half expecting her to turn him down, as most girls did. She most likely wanted to go out with James.

"Only if we watch Grease. It's my favorite movie to watch when the weather is gloomy." Ash cracked a small smile. Carlos' face lit up.

"Okay, yeah. We can watch whatever you want!" he exclaimed, trying to keep himself from quite literally jumping for joy. She followed him when he practically ran off to the elevator with a pep in his step.

Mrs. Knight and Katie weren't home because they were off doing something most likely related to girl things. All four guys were entitled to the apartment, but Carlos kicked the four of them out. Kendall and James weren't phased because they had prior plans to hang out with their girlfriends, but Logan had been in the middle of his math homework. Instead of moving, he sat down in the hall and worked away on his laptop.

"So, what is Grease?" Carlos pulled up one of the RCM-CBT streaming services to look for it on the television.

"Well, it's a musical..." Ash knew well that his favorite types of movies were action movies, but when he didn't react adversely, she let out a breath, which she didn't know she was holding.

"It's a romance movie?" Carlos didn't scrunch his face up or fake gag. That was how he reacted to his friends. "Why do you want to watch a romance movie with me?" He quirked a brow.

"It's perfect for rainy days." Ash avoided his gaze.

Carlos started the movie and stretched his arms across the back of the couch. Ash sat beside him with a platonic distance between them, but the more the movie played, the closer she scooted to his side. Until she was cuddling against him.

The energetic boy tried to hide the fact he was crying, but she reached for the tissues on the coffee table and handed them to him. She had seen this movie about a thousand times. She remembered how she cried the first time watching it. Beauty School Dropout was her favorite song. Carlos blew his nose and tried to keep it together. He didn't want to seem weak, crying in front of her, but he couldn't help it.

[peakyscillian]

Bend The Rules | Cillian Murphy Series

Summary: Cillian is unhappily married, to someone who doesn’t care about him, surely he can bend the rules? Warnings: Cheating, drama, Smut, Mature themes, sexual content, language. Angst. Minors DNI Pairing: Cillian x Fem!Reader Part: 12 A/N: No disrespect to Cillian/his family this is purely fiction.

Bend The Rules | Part Twelve

Masterlist | BTR Masterlist

Part Twelve

It had been ten months since Manchester, six months of sleeping in your sister's guest room, four months in a houseshare, but today was the day you were moving, a new job had come along in Dublin, not somewhere you ever saw yourself going after everything that happened. 

The job was too good to pass up, something you could throw yourself into and forget about any mistakes you’d made. Dublin was a big enough place to never have to run into Cillian. 

You’d kept your promise, you had messaged him two months after leaving Manchester, let him know you were okay, he’d replied and told you how he was heading to New Mexico for a new Christopher Nolan role, you were a little bit jealous that his mistakes hadn't cost him his whole career. 

You had wanted to ask about her, if he was still with her, if she was really having this baby that had blown everything apart, but you stopped yourself, why would you torture yourself with an unwanted answer. 

So instead you’d sent a short message back, before trying to move on. 

-

Cillian was shattered, but his brother had convinced him that he needed to come out for the evening, he’d just got back from filming, the jet lag still biting him in the ass, but he hadn’t been out for a while, hadn’t let himself have any kind of life. 

The pub was busy, which wasn’t unusual, Friday night in Dublin was always packed. He had been in the pub for an hour, when it was his turn to buy drinks for the group, he’d weaved through the crowds, getting a spot at the bar, people next to him shouting their orders over the noise. 

“Shit, sorry” he heard the small laugh from behind him as someone stumbled into his back “Shona! Watch yourself please” the voice shouted, he turned to let the person know it was okay, no damage done. 

The second he spotted her, all 5ft of her, the smile pulling dimples onto her cheeks, he froze he hadn’t seen her in nearly a year, and here she was in one of his favourite bars, in Dublin looking so at home with the group of girls behind her.

“Y/N?” he shouted, god no wonder he used to get up the next day with a no voice in his younger years, she looked up with eyes wide “Cill” she smiled, biting at her lip. 

“Can I get you a drink? and your friends?” he asked, she nodded “We were getting wine, a bottle, if that’s okay?”, “Works over for the week” she added. 

Your heart was hammering in your chest, three weeks in Dublin and of course you’d run into him, his hair was still short, you’d seen pictures of him filming for Chris’ new film, he looked so thin, loved to throw himself into a role right down to the smallest details. 

Cillian handed you the wine with five glasses “Is one enough?” he laughed, you nodded “We’ve had two already, but thanks” you shrugged, “Can we catch up?” he smiled, hoping you weren’t going to walk away again.

“Tonight?” you asked, the girls were heading to find a table, bottle of wine in hand, you didn’t think they’d have any luck, “Yeah, please” he turned quickly to pay for the drinks “You can sit at our table, it's the massive one in the back corner, enough room for all of you” he suggested.

You took two of the pints “Is that okay?” you asked, as you followed him to the table “Of course” he turned with a smile, you gathered your friends, all slipping into the booth together. 

You could feel the skin of his bare arm radiating heat against your own, “Alright Cill, we know you’re divorced now but do you need five girls?” the younger man laughed, Cillian shook his head “Girls, this is my annoying little brother Paddy, who thinks he’s hilarious”, he introduced you all to the whole group.

He was divorced, you felt yourself relax slightly.

-

A few hours later you excused yourself from the table, you needed air, your head was spinning, sitting so close to him, feeling his arm brush against you, the accidental nudge of a foot under the table when you were moving to grab something.

You lit up your cigarette, taking a quick drag as the door opened, Cillian stepped out, fishing a packet of his own cigarettes from his pocket. “Hey” you smiled as he joined you on the small wooden picnic bench, placing his pint down.

“Hey you, it's good to see you” he smiled, you nodded because it was good to see him, you had missed him but Christ you hadn't allowed yourself to think about that for months.

“What are you doing in Dublin?” He asked zipping up his jacket, September had turned cold, “I moved here, there was an amazing job and I'd spent months living with my sister” you explained, Cillian nodded taking in the information, sipping from his pint.

“I should have come after you” he spoke suddenly, you looked up at him, “no, I asked you to let me leave, you did the right thing” you took a long pull on the cigarette.

Cillian nodded, pushing his free hand through his hair, “are you living in the city or further out?”, you dropped the end of your cigarette on the floor “Blackrock, didn't want to live right in the city” you smiled with a shiver.

Cillian laughed lightly, shaking his head “I live down the road, Monkstown, sold the city house when, well you know” he didn't finish the sentence as you nodded, understanding what he was getting at.

You looked at him, taking a sip of his pint with a smile “I need to know, was she actually pregnant?” you noticed Cillian smirk shaking his head “believe it or not she was, not mine though as confirmed by my lawyer she admitted it to Linda, had a baby boy two months after the divorce was final” 

You nodded, hand slowly moving to sit on top of his “I've missed you” you admitted out loud for the first time in ten months, “you've probably moved on, it's just.. yeah it's good to see you” 

Cillian shook his head “haven't moved on, haven't let myself, it was all such a disaster I didn't want to try again” he confessed, you linked your fingers through his, “I'm sorry about that night, I shouldn't have left like that” you looked embarrassed biting at your lip.

“We both made mistakes, I shouldn't have gone and got drunk the night when it all happened, should have come and talked to you” he squeezed your hand, letting the silence sink comfortably between you.

“Can we have dinner or something?” Cillian asked, looking hopeful, “there's some nice places in Monkstown I could pick you up?” He really didn't want to say goodbye to you again.

You couldn't deny it anymore, you had been punishing yourself for too long, had nights where all you wanted to do was call him, tell him you'd made a mistake walking away like you did, “yeah I'd like that” you smiled tucking a loose strand of hair behind your ear.

Cillian returned your smile “Sunday? Or is that too soon?” You shook your head “Sunday is fine” you stood up, shivering in the cold wind, Cillian stood up as well, catching your hand he pulled you towards him “feels good to be near you again” he confessed with the lightest kiss across your cheek.

You held onto him, feeling the comforting press of his body against yours, before you both broke apart, Cillian held the door open for you to walk back into the warmth of the pub.

Settling down at the table again, you felt lighter, Cillian topped up your wine, you thanked him with a gentle squeeze to his knee as you all fell back into conversation with the group.

-

You were sitting in Cillians car, parked outside your house, dinner had been comfortable, catching up on things that you'd both missed. 

You didn't want to get out of the car, you didn't want to end the night and possibly never see him again, you'd found each other so unexpectedly, you weren't sure you could let him go again.

You'd walked away once, you'd broken your own heart packing up your apartment, driving away from the place you'd felt truly happy, but you had needed to leave, you needed to be as far away from it, you'd been humiliated.

“I don-'' you started at the same time he did “we could-” he laughed, allowing you to carry on “I don't want tonight to end” you admitted, Cillian turned to you “we could go to mine? I'll drop you back later?” He suggested, you nodded “I'd like that” Cillian nodded, starting the car and pulling away.

-

Cillian let you both into his house, a Victorian townhouse close to the harbour, he took your coat, “come through” he smiled, leading you to the kitchen “wine?” He asked, pulling a bottle of red from the rack.

You spotted the wine glasses reaching for them, “fit right in” he joked, you shrugged “make me feel comfortable, Cill” you smiled.

He nodded with a smile, filling the glasses before handing you one, “do I get a tour of this big house?” You asked, taking a sip of wine. 

Cillian had his hand on the small of your back, directing you out into the hall “never been to yours before” you giggled lightly.

“Ah but you have, you slipped out in the night” he joked, you diverted your gaze from his “we can joke about it then?” You spoke softly, “of course, makes it easier” he laughed, pulling you into his side “because I've never felt like a one night stand in my life until then, and it was awful” he admitted.

You looked up at him, feeling guilty “sorry” you mumbled, taking a sip of the wine, he nudged his hip against yours “I've done it, just never had it done to me” he confessed.

You giggled slightly “Cillian Murphy the dark horse” his mouth fell open in mock shock “always the quiet ones” you quipped as he pulled you towards the lounge. 

Cillian sat on the sofa, watching as you straddled his legs, in one swift movement he had pulled you into his body, you felt the energy shift in the room as you locked eyes with him, his fingers brushing across your cheek “can I kiss you?” He asked, you instinctively licked across your lips, “please, kiss me” you smiled.

Cillian’s lips softly pecked against yours a few times, tenderly catching your bottom lip with his teeth, you pushed your hand through his hair, tugging lightly at the strands, earning a small groan against your lips, you took the chance to lick into his mouth, tongues clashing together. Cillian’s hands on your waist holding you against him.

You both pulled apart, slightly breathless “we should stop” he huffed out a breath, teeth pulling against his own lip, the feeling of yours still pressed on them. “We should” you agreed.

Cillian cupped at your cheek “we've only just met, should take you out on more dates” he had a cheeky glint in his eye as he spoke, you batted at his chest playfully.

Sinking into his body, lips pressed against his, he pulled away slowly “Stay the night” he asked, you pressed your forehead against his, “Cill, are you sure?” you asked, he nodded biting at his lip “Yeah of course, just want you to stay, nothing else” 

You thought for a second, trying to battle with your head and your heart, you bit at your lip why were you still trying to punish yourself? You smiled nodding your head “give me this grand tour then, don't want to get lost in the night” 

You stood up, taking his hands to pull him up “oh when you sneak out again?”, Cillian lead you out of the lounge, you rolled your eyes “when I need to use the bathroom obviously” you replied, Cillian looked at you over his shoulder as you walked up the stairs “I have an en-suite” 

You gasped “who said I was staying in your bed?”, Cillian stopped, arms looping around your waist pulling you into him again “I've got to keep an eye on you” 

Your arms were around his shoulders, hand on the back of his head “I don't plan on running off ever again” a beaming smile pulled onto his face, nudging your nose with his “thank fuck for that” he sighed, kissing you softly, hands pushed under your jumper resting on the warm skin of your waist. You pulled away from his lips, “I need you” you whined breathlessly, Cillian smiled “I’ve got you darling” he led you down the hall, looking back over his shoulder to take you in, kiss swollen lips, a flush on your cheeks, eyes wild with desire, fuck he’d missed you.

-

Taglist

@cillmequick @runnning-outof-time @look-at-the-soul @gypsy-girl-08 @heidimoreton @thomasshelbee @forgottenpeakywriter @shelbydelrey @allie131313 @cillixn @midnightmagpiemama @zablife @queenshelby @missymurphy1985 @janelongxox @cloudofdisney @being-worthy @vhscillian @radioheadgirl @elenavampire21 @datewithgianni @magicalpieex @camilleholland89 @cilliansangel @uchihacumdump @inkandpen22 @ysmmsy @lyarr24 @anotherhitandrun @alreadybroken-ts @flyingjosephine-blog @moral-turpitudes @duckybird101 @lostgirl219 @blyanyan @flippittygibbitts @stevie75 @winchestergirl22 @stars-of-scorpio @lespendy @lovemissyhoneybee @pocket-of-possibilities @otterly-fey @gotohellandbackforyou @tinyminxie

[howtofightwrite]

How big would an army of conscripts, armed with Dragunov pattern marksman rifles and iron sights, with between 1 and 3 magazines each, a radio headset that allows them to take orders on a platoon level (50 troops to be specific), and a single platoon artilleryman armed with an RPG-7 with 5 rockets, with assistance from a Mitsubishi Type 89 IFV (35mm autocannon, 7,62mm M240 pattern coaxial machine gun, tracked) and an aerial command/reconnaisance/attack/close air support aircraft, need to be to deal with an army of 1000 heavy pikemen, 50 elite knights, 200 heavy cavalry, 100 light cavalry and 200 longbowmen? The pikemen are armed with a pike and wear breastplates, pauldrons, gauntlets, a helm and chainmail. The heavy cavalry are armed with a heavy lance, a sword, cuirass and helm. Longbowmen use English yew bows and wear gambesons and a chainmail on the head. Light cavalry are armed with a spear, a short bow, and a small sword. The elite knights are armed with a heavy lance and a sword, and armoured in a full body suit of plate and horse barding, and they will move with the heavy cavalry.

Okay, so, for the record, you're not really supposed to use an SVD's iron sights. (SVD is short for “Dragunov Sniper Rifle,” so, these are formally called, “sniper rifles,” rather than just DMRs.) They were (supposed to be) issued with PSO-1 scopes. This can be a little amusing, because once you know what a PSO-1's range finder looks like, it's absolutely unmistakable, and you will see films and TV shows use them on other scopes. I bring this up, because the SVD has an effective range over 600 meters. (Specifications say it's good to almost 1.3km, but, that's very hopeful.)

However, with optics, those SVDs are going to massive out range any archer.

Your infantry have somewhere between 1k-3k packed rounds. So, if they were the only participants, they would need to be a little careful about ammo conservation. But, when you start factoring in the IFV, it doesn't matter.

This scenario isn't extraordinarily different from early battles in WWI. Where cavalry and infantry charged entrenched heavy machine gun fire, and were annihilated.

This is also a moment when the whole, “elite knight,” bit really doesn't matter. You have a minor noble, who spent almost their entire life training to be a better melee combatant. You put them in the best armor you've ever seen. And, then a bullet fired from a mass-produced sniper rifle, designed to be easily fabricated by anyone with a basic machine shop, and simple enough to be maintained by a barely literate conscript will drop them in less time than it takes to read this paragraph, before the knight even knows that someone is aiming at them.

I will say, this is a little bit of a weird combination, the Type 89 IFV, is a Japanese vehicle. The JSDF (to the best of my knowledge) has never used SVDs. These days, I think their DMR is the H&K 417. Until a few years ago, their primary infantry rifle was the Howa Type 89, which is basically a redesigned AR-18. Prior to that, they used the Howa Type 64, which was a 7.62mm battle rifle. (As far as I know, the Type 64 was domestically designed.)

The Russian/Soviet equivalent to the Type 89 IFV would be the BTR-80. As with the SVD, because it's a Romanized translation, BTR stands for, “armored carrier.” Somewhat obviously, these don't work particularly well if they're not maintained, or if the motor pool Sargent is stripping them for spare parts and siphoning gas to sell on the black market, because the government hasn't paid any of you in six months, but it's still going to have a fairly similar effect on those elite knights from the 11thcentury.

The 50 SVD rifles is weird. Full stop. It's a specialist weapon, not a general infantry weapon. In a situation like that, you'd expect to see conscripts armed with AKMs or AK74s, maybe a few SVDs and RPKs.

Now, if you were looking at a contemporary NATO unit from the 60s or 70s, then, yes, you would likely see battle rifles like the M14, FN FAL, or H&K G3. And, when you're describing using an SVD's iron sights, that's more how you have used one of those cold war era battle rifles. Also, while those rifles do have automatic settings, they're intended for semi-automatic fire.

If you're wondering why I'm not even addressing things like the areal support or the RPG, it's because they really don't matter that much. Areal reconnaissance means never having to wonder where the enemy forces are, but basically anything on this list except the RPG, could probably deal with all of the enemy forces on their own. Stacking them together would be absolutely devastating.

I'm not 100% sure, but I think you could use pretty much any modern IFV as a one-size-fits-all siege breaker if they're dealing with medieval forces.

When you're looking at modern military forces time traveling into the past, the biggest logistical issue is long term depletion of supplies. There isn't really a question of, “who's going to win? A guy with a rifle that's effective at a range of over a 1km, or 10 guys with pointy sticks. The issue is what happens in six months, or a year, when there's only three or four rounds left for that rifle on the planet, and, there won't be any more for another six hundred years.

-Starke

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[madefate]

Blitz: smash or pass + Stolas / anonymous

❝ Y' think you're funny, don'cha ? Nah, let me pack up now, totally done with the whole arrangement - fuckin' of course I'm gonna smash, like this hasn't been my life for a year - do you KNOW how full that thirsty owl makes my voicemail ? You've got a message and it's Blitzy I need you, or Blitzy how was your day, or Blitzy have you heard of this fascinating shibari practice? or Blitzy you MUST see my new rare orchids, and it's like? like what game are you even playing. ❞

❝ Like, I give GOOD dick fuck what anyone says, and we click because don't let that pretty boy face fool you, he takes to kinks like a fish to water. And that's supposed to be it, y'know? It's a business transaction! Fuck what Fizz thinks. That's what he said - I mean, what we said. But Stolas is just ... there, y'know? Blowing up my texts and shit, or popping in. Just the other day he was showing me this lingerie set and - oh, shit, wait - ❞

And, rant seemingly forgotten mid diatribe, Blitz pulls out his phone because fuck he'd forgotten to reply, and pictures are SO much easier to get back to than Stolas' usual paragraphs that take him forever to read.

[ sent🦉🔥: u btr waer that next time ]

SMASH OR PASS BABEY !

[eclecticreviewpeace]

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[spookysaladchaos]

Global Top 7 Companies Accounted for 72% of total Mesocarbon Microbeads market (QYResearch, 2021)

MCMB (mesocarbon microbeads) synthetic graphite is prepared from petroleum pitch or coal tar. MCMB is one of the promising carbon anode materials for Li-ion batteries. MCMB has high specific capacity and a spherical morphology, which is beneficial for high packing density of the anode. The low surface area of MCMB can minimize the unfavorable side reactions during the charge-discharge process.

According to the new market research report “Global Mesocarbon Microbeads Market Report 2023-2029”, published by QYResearch, the global Mesocarbon Microbeads market size is projected to reach USD 0.38 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 10.5% during the forecast period.

Figure.   Global Mesocarbon Microbeads Market Size (US$ Million), 2018-2029

Figure.   Global Mesocarbon Microbeads Top 7 Players Ranking and Market Share (Ranking is based on the revenue of 2022, continually updated)

The global key manufacturers of Mesocarbon Microbeads include BTR New Material Group, China Steel Chemical, Baotailong New Materials, Shanshan Group, Nippon Carbon Co., Ltd., etc. In 2021, the global top four players had a share approximately 72.0% in terms of revenue.

About QYResearch

QYResearch founded in California, USA in 2007.It is a leading global market research and consulting company. With over 16 years’ experience and professional research team in various cities over the world QY Research focuses on management consulting, database and seminar services, IPO consulting, industry chain research and customized research to help our clients in providing non-linear revenue model and make them successful. We are globally recognized for our expansive portfolio of services, good corporate citizenship, and our strong commitment to sustainability. Up to now, we have cooperated with more than 60,000 clients across five continents. Let’s work closely with you and build a bold and better future.

QYResearch is a world-renowned large-scale consulting company. The industry covers various high-tech industry chain market segments, spanning the semiconductor industry chain (semiconductor equipment and parts, semiconductor materials, ICs, Foundry, packaging and testing, discrete devices, sensors, optoelectronic devices), photovoltaic industry chain (equipment, cells, modules, auxiliary material brackets, inverters, power station terminals), new energy automobile industry chain (batteries and materials, auto parts, batteries, motors, electronic control, automotive semiconductors, etc.), communication industry chain (communication system equipment, terminal equipment, electronic components, RF front-end, optical modules, 4G/5G/6G, broadband, IoT, digital economy, AI), advanced materials industry Chain (metal materials, polymer materials, ceramic materials, nano materials, etc.), machinery manufacturing industry chain (CNC machine tools, construction machinery, electrical machinery, 3C automation, industrial robots, lasers, industrial control, drones), food, beverages and pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, agriculture, etc.

[burning-thistles-bt]

semi-context here

not even sure what to write lol just messing around with some ideas/concepts/aus... evil Ferncloud and evil Brightheart au but their evil in opposite directions and both think they're in the right (but like. Brightpaw's is a Catra kind of "I'm in the right" where she knows she's wrong but she's Going Down With It And Taking Everyone With Her. a The World Hurt Her so She'll Hurt the World)

meanwhile Fernpaw is in a cult (but not Frostfur's) and Did Some Things and has just realized it and is struggling to come to terms with it

no i will not elaborate

[acute-crashout-jeyuso]

Sacrifices / BTR Book 2: a Jhea fanfic.

Chapter 8: of course I’m going to give $25 to my nephew..

January 29th, 2025 12:27PM

Jeyce and Demi sat at the usual loner lunch table, sharing laughs as they recounted their morning classes. Demi, as always, had a way of making him laugh, her wit sharper than most people realized. For the first time since the awkward conversation with his dad, Jeyce felt completely at ease.

As she took a sip from her juice box, Demi looked at him, her dark eyes gleaming with excitement. “So… do you have any plans for Friday?” she asked casually, her voice slightly playful.

Jeyce shrugged, though his heart was already racing. “Uh, yeah… kind of. My brother Jaciyah’s coming down with our mom. He’s been staying with her to help her with the move to Stamford,” he explained, trying to keep his tone casual.

Demi nodded, a small smile forming on her lips. “Well, I was going to invite you to a listening party for The Smiths at this place called CD Master Copy downtown,” she said, her voice hopeful. “My sister is visiting this weekend and she said she could take us. She’s cool with it.”

Jeyce’s brain froze for a second. The Smiths? He’d never even heard of them. But the idea of spending time with Demi outside of school, hanging out and listening to music, was too good to pass up. He found himself nodding, a little too eagerly. “Yeah… yeah, sure! That sounds fun, you didn’t mention a sister.” he replied, hoping he sounded more confident than he felt.

Demi’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Awesome! You’ll love it; they’re amazing. You didn’t mention a brother.” She smiled, gathering her things as the bell rang. “See you on the bus?”

“Yeah… see you on the bus,” Jeyce replied, his face breaking into a smile as he watched her walk away. When she was out of earshot, he muttered under his breath, “Oh, crap…”

As he trudged to his next class, he couldn’t shake the feeling of both excitement and dread. Telling his dad about this was going to be a challenge. But one thing was certain—he wasn’t about to miss out on his first real chance to spend time with Demi.

—

Jeyce had barely dropped his backpack by the door before he went looking for his dad. He knew he had to tell him about the listening party with Demi, but his nerves were eating away at him. He finally spotted Jey tending to the greenhouse, his hands gently packing flower seeds into the soil. Jey was probably doing it for Rhea—Jeyce had caught on to his dad’s habit of planting little surprises for her.

“Hey, Dad,” Jeyce called, leaning against the greenhouse door.

Jey looked up, a small smile forming. “Hey, buddy. I actually wanted to talk to you about something,” he said, pushing another seed into the soil.

Jeyce tilted his head, curiosity replacing his nervousness for a moment. “Oh? Go ahead.”

Jey let out a breath, his eyes shifting away briefly before looking back at Jeyce. “So, you’re going to be thirteen in a couple of months…” he began, his tone a mix of seriousness and awkwardness.

Jeyce felt his own curiosity spike, a bit wary. “Yeah?” he replied, eyebrows raised in confusion.

Jey cleared his throat, visibly trying to find the right words. “Well, when me and your uncle were about your age, we started noticing… changes in our bodies.” He gave Jeyce a meaningful look, as though that explained everything.

Jeyce squinted slightly, still not fully understanding. “Yeaahhhh…” he replied slowly, hoping his dad would get to the point.

Jey rubbed the back of his neck, seeming even more uncomfortable now. “Well… look, son, if you’re, you know, noticing changes… it’s important to talk to me or, uh, someone about it. I don’t want you going on bad websites or—”

“Dad! No! Ew!” Jeyce interrupted, his face scrunching up in horror. He threw his hands up, backing away from his dad. “Nevermind! I’m out of here!”

He turned and bolted back toward the house, desperate to escape the painfully awkward conversation. As he hurried off, he could hear his dad’s voice behind him, tinged with exasperation and a little humor. “Well, that went well,” Jey muttered to himself, rubbing his temples.

Inside the house, Jeyce’s heart was still racing, but he couldn’t help but laugh a little at how disastrous the conversation had been. His dad was just trying, even if it was embarrassing. But one thing was clear—there was no way he was bringing up the listening party with Demi.

Jeyce climbed the stairs to his room, still feeling a mix of embarrassment and relief after his awkward talk with his dad. As he reached the top, he saw Rhea coming out of her room, adjusting her hair and humming softly to herself.

Jeyce hesitated for a moment, feeling a sudden, overwhelming need to say something—anything—to ease the lingering awkwardness and tension from earlier. “Rhea,” he said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Rhea stopped, turning to face him with a gentle, curious smile. “Yes, Jeyce?” she asked, her tone as warm as ever.

Jeyce took a deep breath, his cheeks flushing slightly. “I… I love you still,” he mumbled, the words spilling out quicker than he had intended.

Rhea’s expression softened even more, her smile widening as she took in his words. Before she could respond, though, Jeyce quickly darted toward his room, not waiting to see her reaction.

As he shut his door, he heard her soft laughter drift down the hallway, filled with warmth and understanding. He let out a small sigh of relief, feeling the weight on his chest lighten just a bit. Even if things were changing in his life and family, moments like this reminded him that some things—like love—were solid and steady.

Jeyce threw himself onto his bed, feeling a strange mix of emotions. He knew things were about to get more complicated with Demi and whatever this listening party was going to bring, but for now, he felt a sense of calm.

—

Rhea found Jey in the greenhouse, kneeling among the rows of freshly planted flower seeds. He was focused on his task, carefully arranging the soil and making sure everything was just right for the blooms to come. She smiled at the sight, her heart swelling with affection for the man she came to love.

As she stepped closer, she gave him a kiss on the cheek. “What a wonderful job you’re doing here!” she said, her voice warm and encouraging.

Jey looked up, his expression brightening. “Thanks babe..” he replied, his cheeks slightly flushed from the unexpected affection.

Jey decided it was the perfect moment to share his earlier conversation with Jeyce. “I took your advice..” he said, brushing the dirt from his hands. “I talked to Jeyce about… you know, puberty.”

Rhea burst into laughter, the sound ringing through the greenhouse like music. “Oh my gosh, how did that go?” she asked, wiping a tear from her eye.

Jey scratched the back of his neck, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. “Not well, I think. I might have scared him off a bit.”

Still chuckling, Rhea shook her head. “Well, it’s a tough topic, but you’re a good dad for trying.”

Once the laughter settled, Rhea’s smile turned tender. “Oh, and speaking of Jeyce, he told me earlier that he still loves me,” she said, her heart fluttering at the thought.

Jey smiled, his gaze softening. “He still loves his bonus mommy,” he echoed, warmth spreading through him at the bond they had as a family.

Rhea nodded, her eyes sparkling. “It means so much to me.. he is growing..”

Jey looked around the greenhouse, the vibrant colors of the flowers surrounding them. “He is. It’s a little scary, but also kind of exciting to see him become his own person,” he said, feeling a sense of pride wash over him.

Rhea placed a hand on his shoulder. “You’re doing great, Jey. Just keep being there for him, and we’ll figure it out together.”

Jey nodded, feeling grateful for Rhea’s support. “I’m glad we’re in this together,” he replied, giving her a soft smile.

With their hearts feeling a little lighter, Rhea joined her fiancé as he returned to planting, the sun streaming through the greenhouse windows, casting a warm glow over their small family as they embraced the journey ahead.

—

Jeyce stared at his phone, anxiety swirling in his stomach as he read the text from Demi. Here are the details: $25 a person, 7-8:30 PM, black attire encouraged. A wave of dread washed over him. There was no way he could ask his dad for money—not after their awkward conversation about puberty. And Rhea? He certainly didn’t want to bring that up with her either.

But then, a light bulb went off in his head. He scrolled through the contacts on his phone, searching for a solution. His finger hovered over “Uncle Joe,” the name that brought a smile to his face. He clicked the FaceTime button, his heart racing as he waited for his uncle to answer.

“Hey there, if it isn’t my favorite nephew!” Joe’s face appeared on the screen, a wide grin spreading across his features.

Jeyce couldn’t help but smile back, despite his nerves. “Uncle, I need help. I’m in a pickle.”

Joe’s brow raised in curiosity. “What happened?”

“I met this girl, her name is Demi, and she is so cool, Joe! She has black hair and she looks like a vampire,” Jeyce said, his excitement bubbling over.

Joe chuckled. “I take it you met her in school?”

“Yes!” Jeyce exclaimed, feeling a surge of pride. “She’s really nice.”

“Is this the same school where you hit that other kid with a lunch box?” Joe teased.

Jeyce rolled his eyes, embarrassment creeping up his neck. “Did Dad tell you?”

Joe laughed heartily. “He put me and your Uncle Jon on a Zoom meeting and told us. I must say, you could have done a spear, far better.”

“I’m not doing a spear, Uncle Joe,” Jeyce replied, a hint of exasperation in his voice.

“Okay, okay,” Joe said, still chuckling. “So, what’s going on with Demi?”

Jeyce took a deep breath, trying to gather his thoughts. “Well, she invited me to this listening party, and it’s $25 to get in. I also wanted to buy her a milkshake afterward, and well… my dad just gave me a puberty talk, and now I’m emotionally scarred.”

Joe couldn’t contain his laughter, his hearty chuckles echoing through the speaker. “I can’t say I blame you, buddy. That talk can be pretty brutal.”

“For real, Uncle Joe,” Jeyce pleaded, feeling the weight of the world on his shoulders. “Can you help me out?”

“Sure thing, little man. I’ll send some money to your Cash App,” Joe replied, his tone turning serious. “Just remember, you’re still a kid, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. You’ve got a great future ahead of you.”

“Thank you so much!” Jeyce said, relief flooding through him. “You’re the best!”

“Just keep being yourself, and don’t forget to show Demi a good time. She sounds like a great girl,” Joe advised, giving Jeyce a knowing smile.

As they finished their conversation, Jeyce felt lighter, the looming date feeling less daunting. With Uncle Joe’s help, he could make it work. He hung up, excitement bubbling within him as he imagined the evening ahead, all while secretly vowing to himself to keep practicing his social skills—spear or not.

—

Later that night, Rhea and Jey lay together on their California king-size bed, the soft glow of a bedside lamp casting a warm light across the room. Rhea had been focused on her laptop, and now she looked up with a triumphant smile. “There, it’s done,” she announced, closing the lid.

Jey looked up from his phone, curiosity piqued. “What’s done?”

Rhea beamed. “I booked our couple’s therapy appointment with the new therapist for next Monday.”

Jey nodded, feeling a sense of relief. “That’s good, babe. It’s about time we started working on things.”

“Oh, and don’t forget you have your physical therapy appointment tomorrow,” Rhea reminded him, a hint of concern in her voice.

“I know, I know,” Jey replied, waving his hand dismissively. He put his phone down and closed Rhea’s laptop, wanting to draw her attention back to him. Craving some intimacy, he turned to her, his expression softening. “How is my baby doing?”

Rhea smirked, her playful side coming out. “Well, baby and mommy both would’ve appreciated their donuts this morning.”

Jey burst into laughter, shaking his head. “Babe, really?”

“Don’t act like you’re not partially responsible for this craving,” Rhea shot back, her tone teasing. Jey sighed dramatically.

“You could’ve redeemed yourself tomorrow, but Bruce comes back and I have to be in the office.” Rhea said.

“Boooo,” he continued, making a face. “What I wanted was one of those sexy afternoons.” He raised his eyebrows, giving her a sultry smirk that made her giggle.

“Don’t tempt me right now, mister,” Rhea laughed, shaking her head.

“I’m just saying,” Jey replied, leaning closer, his voice lowering playfully. “I’m trying to get it in every night, babe. Who knows? One day you’re going to wake up and hate me.”

Rhea laughed again, the sound light and carefree. “That’s the beauty of pregnancy,” she said, grinning at him. “You’re stuck with me, whether you like it or not.”

“I don’t think I could ever hate you,” Jey said earnestly, his gaze searching hers. “Even on your worst days, you’re still the most amazing woman I know.”

Rhea’s heart swelled at his words, and she reached out to cup his face with her hand. “You’re sweet. Just remember, I might be a little cranky at times, especially with these hormones.”

“Bring it on,” Jey challenged playfully, leaning into her touch. “I’ll take cranky Rhea any day.”

She laughed, feeling lighter in that moment. “You’re brave, I’ll give you that. But don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

“Warned and ready,” Jey said with a wink. He shifted closer, wrapping his arms around her, feeling the warmth of her body against his. “Now, how about we just enjoy this moment? No donuts, no therapy talk—just us.”

Rhea smiled, leaning her head against his shoulder. “I like the sound of that.”

They settled into a comfortable silence, the weight of the world outside their door fading away. In that intimate space, they found solace in each other, the love they shared radiating like a comforting blanket. As they lay entwined, they both knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together, united as a family.

—

Jeyce lay sprawled on his bed, holding his phone up as he FaceTimed with Demi. She was propped up against her pillows, lying in her own bed, her dark hair cascading over her shoulders. The soft glow from her bedside lamp gave her an almost ethereal look.

“So… how is your family… blended?” Demi asked, her curiosity evident.

Jeyce took a deep breath, wondering how to put it into words. “Well, my brother Jaciyah told me that our dad just… fell out of love with our mom. And then he met Rhea—my bonus mom, Rhea Ripley.” He added the last part a bit shyly, as if he wasn’t sure how Demi would take it.

Demi’s eyes widened, a sparkle of excitement flickering in them. “Rhea Ripley? Like, the Rhea Ripley?”

Jeyce chuckled, nodding. “Yeah, she’s my bonus mom.”

Demi sighed wistfully, resting her chin on her hand. “I’d be happy every day if that was my bonus mom. My bonus dad is… well, he’s kind of a jerk.”

Jeyce’s expression softened with sympathy. “Why doesn’t your sister live with you?”

Demi shrugged, looking down briefly. “She wanted to live with my mom and my bonus dad in New Haven. So now it’s just me, my dad, and our cat, Thunder.” She gave him a small, reassuring smile. “It’s not so bad, though. Thunder keeps me company when I need it.”

“I’m sorry about that,” Jeyce said quietly, realizing how hard it must be for Demi to feel separated from her family.

Demi’s face brightened, her eyes warm. “It’s okay. At least we have each other, right?”

Jeyce felt his face heat up, his heart doing a little flip at her words. “Yeah… I’m glad we do.”

After a moment of silence, Jeyce finally gathered the courage to bring up what had been on his mind since this morning. “Uh, about… the kiss on the cheek?”

Demi’s cheeks tinged a light pink as she looked down, biting her lip. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I won’t do it again.”

Jeyce’s heart raced, and before he could stop himself, he blurted out, “No! I… I liked it.”

Demi’s eyes lit up, her shy smile returning. “Oh. Well, Friday… can we consider it as a… date?”

Jeyce stuttered, the nerves taking over. “Y-y-yeah! I mean, yes! Of course!”

Demi giggled at his adorable response, her eyes shining with excitement. “Great. It’s a date, then.”

They both fell into an easy silence, each lost in the thrill of this new, uncharted territory. Jeyce could feel his cheeks hurting from smiling, but he didn’t care. For the first time, he felt like he’d found someone who understood him, someone he could talk to about anything.

As they continued to chat, the worries of the day faded away, replaced by the warmth of young love and the comfort of knowing they were no longer alone.

—

Friday, January 31st, 2025 - 4:37 PM

Jeyce held both of Demi’s hands as they stood at their usual streetlamp post where the bus dropped them off each day. The late afternoon light cast a warm glow over them, and the anticipation in the air was palpable.

“I can’t wait to see you tonight,” Demi said, her voice light with excitement. She smiled up at him, her eyes twinkling. “My sister wants you at the house by 6:45.”

Jeyce’s heart fluttered as he nodded. “Perfect,” he replied, almost too quickly, eager to get the evening started. He leaned in and kissed her lightly on the cheek, a gesture that felt both sweet and thrilling.

“See you later,” Demi said, a soft smile on her lips. They exchanged one last look before going their separate ways.

Jeyce’s feet barely touched the ground as he sprinted home. His mind raced with thoughts of the night ahead. He couldn’t believe it. It was his very first date. His first date with his boo Demi. She was everything he liked—smart, funny, and incredibly beautiful.

Arriving at the house, he quickly entered the code to the gate, the familiar mechanical sound of the gate unlocking giving him a sense of urgency. He hurried up the pathway and through the front door, only to find his mom, Takecia, sitting at the kitchen table, chatting with Rhea and Jey.

“Hey, Mom? Where’s Jaciyah?” Jeyce asked, barely catching his breath from the run. His excitement was palpable, but he didn’t have time for pleasantries.

Jey raised an eyebrow, looking at his son with mock seriousness. “It’s not nice to just rush in and ask questions like that, Jeyce. Take a breath and talk to your mom properly.”

Jeyce, still jittery from the thoughts of the date, exhaled and quickly spilled out, “Everything’s fine at school, I learned my lesson, don’t hit anyone with lunch boxes, yada yada…” He paused for a breath, giving his mom a look. “Where’s Jaciyah?”

Takecia smiled warmly at her son, shaking her head with affection. “I love you too, son,” she teased. “He’s upstairs.”

Without another word, Jeyce darted up the stairs, his excitement pushing him to move faster. He reached his brother’s room in a matter of seconds. Jeyce knocked, then pushed the door open and closed it behind him. Jaciyah, looking a bit surprised but grinning, glanced up from his bed.

“I. NEED. A. FAVOR.” Jeyce demanded.

“Yo,” Jaciyah said, still setting his stuff down. “I’ve been gone for two weeks and the first thing you say to me is what? ‘I need a favor’?”

Jeyce grinned sheepishly but didn’t waste any time. “Yeah. I need a favor,” he repeated. He quickly crossed the room to his brother and gave him a brief, quick hug before continuing. “I have a date.”

Jaciyah raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. “A date? With who? Is it someone I need to worry about?”

Jeyce laughed nervously. “No, it’s with Demi. She’s really cool, Jaciyah. You don’t know her, but I swear, she’s awesome. And…” He hesitated for a second before going on. “Uncle Joe sent me some money for this listening party she invited me to, but I need you to drive me there.”

Jaciyah stood up from his bed, crossing his arms and giving his younger brother a teasing look. “A listening party, huh? Sounds like a pretty big deal.” He walked over to his dresser, grabbing a hoodie. “Alright, alright, what’s the favor?”

“I need you to come with me,” Jeyce said, his face flushing with embarrassment but also genuine hope. “So that Dad or Rhea won’t get suspicious. Please, Jaciyah. I really need your help.”

Jaciyah raised his hands in mock surrender, laughing. “Alright, alright, I got you, little man. I’ll go with you. But you owe me one after this, you hear?”

Jeyce smiled, feeling a wave of relief wash over him. “Thank you, thank you, thank you! I promise, you won’t regret it.”

Jaciyah smirked, looking at his younger brother with a mix of amusement and brotherly affection. “Alright, alright. We’ll get you to your date. But first, we gotta get you looking sharp. Can’t show up at this ‘listening party’ looking like a slob.”

Jeyce chuckled, following Jaciyah as he grabbed a couple of his clothes. “Thanks, bro. You’re the best.”

“The listening party’s attire is black,” Jeyce said. “I need to look good, you know?”

Jaciyah rifled through his clothes, looking for a nice shirt for Jeyce. Jaciyah said “Ah hah.” And he through the item at Jeyce. Jeyce looked at the black polo collared shirt Jaciyah, holding it up to his chest.

Jaciyah gave him a playful side-eye. “Yeah, I know, you don’t want to mess this up with Demi.” He tossed the shirt to Jeyce and then walked over to his dresser, flipping through his clothes. “Alright, you’re good to go on the shirt, but what about your hair?” Jaciyah looked at him, raising an eyebrow.

Jeyce hesitated for a second, scratching the back of his head. “Well… can you braid it?” He glanced over, half-embarrassed, but also really wanting to make a good impression.

Jaciyah chuckled and looked at the clock. “How long do we have?”

“About an hour,” Jeyce replied quickly.

Jaciyah gave him a look, sizing up the time. “It’s pushing it, but I can do about six cornrows,” he said, rummaging through his styling products. “It’ll have to do.”

Jeyce nodded, his eyes lighting up with relief. “That’s fine,” he said, sitting cross-legged on the floor, ready for his older brother’s work. “Thanks, Jaciyah. I really need to look good for this.”

As Jaciyah worked his fingers through Jeyce’s hair, weaving the strands into neat cornrows, Jeyce started talking about Demi. “She’s really cool,” Jeyce said, a smile spreading across his face as he thought about her. “She invited me to this listening party, and I really like her. She’s kind of… different from the other girls at school. She’s got this vibe, you know?”

Jaciyah nodded, focusing on his work, trying to get the braids just right. “Yeah, I can tell. But, come on, tell me more about her. You’ve been talking about her non-stop. What’s so special?”

Jeyce leaned back slightly, enjoying the rhythm of Jaciyah’s braiding as he continued. “She’s… just different. Not like the other girls at school. She’s got black hair, and she’s got this cool, mysterious vibe. And she’s just really smart. Like, she gets me, you know? She’s the first person in a long time that I’ve really clicked with.”

Jaciyah paused for a second, raising an eyebrow. “Sounds like she’s got you good. What about her sister? I heard you mention her. Is she going to the party too?”

Jeyce nodded, his heart still racing at the thought of Demi. “Yeah, her sister’s going to be the one driving us there. But, honestly, I don’t know much about her sister. Demi’s told me some things, but she keeps her pretty private.”

Jaciyah smirked, finishing up the final braid. “Alright, cool. But you know I gotta ask—how old is her sister?”

Jeyce frowned slightly, looking at his older brother. “I don’t know. But don’t spoil this for me, Jaciyah,” he said, his voice tinged with a hint of frustration. “I really like her, okay? This date means a lot to me. Please don’t mess it up.”

Jaciyah looked down at his little brother, realizing how serious Jeyce was about this. He softened his tone, giving him a rare moment of older brother wisdom. “I won’t mess it up, little man,” he said, smoothing down the last cornrow and giving Jeyce a pat on the head. “I’m just looking out for you. But, hey, don’t worry. You’ll do fine. Just be yourself. You’ve got this.”

Jeyce smiled, relieved to have Jaciyah’s support, even though his older brother still had his teasing ways. “Thanks, Jaciyah,” he said, standing up and looking at his reflection in the mirror. “I appreciate it. Now, let’s go make sure I’m on time. I’ve got a date to impress.”

—

Jeyce and Jaciyah made their way downstairs, their footsteps echoing through the house. Jaciyah, feeling a surge of confidence, looked over at his dad, Jey, who was lounging on the couch with Rhea and Takecia. Jaciyah cleared his throat and asked, “Hey, Dad, can I borrow the keys to the Mercedes?”

Jey chuckled, raising an eyebrow at his seventeen-year-old son’s request. “The keys to my Mercedes? Really? Takecia and Rhea… this boy said the keys to my Mercedes.”

Jaciyah didn’t miss a beat. “Yes, I’m serious. I’ve got… plans.”

Beside him, Jeyce nodded vigorously, backing up his brother’s request. “Yeah, we really need to go somewhere.”

Rhea, sitting close to Jey, exchanged a suspicious glance with Takecia. Takecia tilted her head and asked, “Where exactly are you boys planning on going?”

Thinking quickly, Jaciyah replied, “I saw a Pizza Hut nearby, and I was thinking of putting in an application. You know… part-time job and all.” He shrugged nonchalantly, trying to sound casual.

Rhea raised an eyebrow, clearly not convinced, and turned her gaze to Jeyce. “Uh-huh. And what about you, Jeyce?” She looked him up and down, taking in his freshly braided hair and sharp outfit. “Why is your hair braided, and why are you all dressed up?”

Jeyce froze, trying to think of an excuse that wouldn’t tip them off. Suddenly, inspiration struck, and he blurted out, “I’m going through puberty, and I just… want to look nice. You know, like… feel good about myself.”

That answer seemed to catch the adults off guard, and they exchanged confused glances, unsure of how to respond. Takecia and Rhea glanced at each other, while Jey shifted uncomfortably, clearly unsure how to address the sudden topic of puberty.

Jeyce saw his chance and leaned in, doubling down. “Yeah, I’m going through puberty. And it’s hitting me hard. Like, really hard. So, you know, just… trying to look my best.”

Jey scratched the back of his neck, clearly out of his depth. “Uh… well… alright then,” he stammered, glancing at Rhea, who shrugged. He nodded toward the counter. “The keys are over there.”

Before they could ask any more questions, Jeyce and Jaciyah quickly called out their goodbyes and dashed toward the garage, trying to stifle their laughter until they were out of earshot.

As they climbed into the Mercedes, Jaciyah looked over at Jeyce with a smirk. “Puberty, huh? That was quick thinking.”

Jeyce grinned, buckling his seatbelt. “Hey, it worked, didn’t it?”

Jaciyah chuckled as he turned the key in the ignition, the car purring to life. “Alright, little Romeo, let’s go impress your girl.”

[thesylvale]

Break The Rules by MazZedy // Short Level Review #2

Context:

So for those that don't play GD, there's a community project called the GDDL, or the Geometry Dash Demon Ladder, and there are packs for this ladder. One of these packs is called the Duality Pack, where you pair up with a friend and beat 5 pairs of 2 levels each, with some sort of relation between the two levels. I started a duality pack with a friend, and the levels we rolled were Conformity and Break The Rules. Since they already beat BtR, I had to beat it.

Review:

Break The Rules is a sync based Easy Demon that is somehow one of the hardest in the game??? It never felt that hard outside of the last wave for me (and I somehow never died to it from 0) and it got incredibly consistent incredibly fast. I highly recommend you give this map a shot!