#burlesque bliss

[screamingeyepress]

Brace yourselves, folks! Vulpine Vamps Vol 9 ditches the rules for an all-out pinup extravaganza—jump from Jane Fonda-esque exercise queens to sultry, stethoscope-ready nurses and vintage burlesque bombshells. It’s the pinup meltdown you never knew you needed. Learn More: https://www.screamingeyepress.com/product/vulpine-vamps-vol-9/

[gagswipe]

➜ Embrace the joy-random meme is here!🤣

➝ Want cash that dances? Click here!💸

Unlock laughter, please Reblog!🤩

[hazbinshusk]

day twenty-one of salem's unofficial attempt at kinktober: voyuerism/dry humping (huskerdust x reader)

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

The club music pounds loudly enough for you to feel it in your bones, in your blood, and the scent of booze and sex and artificial smoke teases at your senses. Husk wraps an arm around your waist, your back cradled against the curve of his wing. His fur is warm and soft against your bare skin, and you shiver as he buries his face in the curve of your neck with a low, even chuckle.

“You gotta work on your poker face, sweetness.” he rumbles in your ear, and you feel the sharp points of his teeth graze the curve of your collarbone. “People are gonna think you’ve got a crush.”

“He’s just so pretty,” you reply with a grin, eyes still fixed on the stage. Angel is in his element, a burlesque dream of feathers and beads, the blissed-out smile on his face for once purely due to the chance to perform like this. Husk had taken no convincing at all to tag along tonight, and a bottle of whiskey deep he was loose and relaxed in a way he rarely is outside of one of your rooms at the hotel. “Look at him.”

“I am,” Husk assures you, bumping his nose against the edge of your jaw. Your shoulder rises automatically as it tickles, your hand finding and squeezing his thigh under the table. Husk tosses back the last of his drink, and on your nod, finishes yours as well. He scowls at the too-sweet taste, tongue sticking out distastefully, and you giggle.

He lets his hand slip lower over the curve of your hip as Angel makes a wide, arching swing around the pole at centre stage, and you feel his lips brush against your jaw, your cheek. You stare in wonder at Angel a moment longer before you turn your face towards Husk, humming happily as he catches your lips with his.

Husk kisses you warmly, his tongue teasing against your bottom lip before sliding into your mouth. Your hand tightens its grip on his thigh and you feel his wing tuck tighter around you, urging you closer to his side. You lean into him, your hand leaving his thigh to skim over his stomach and up to card your fingers through the soft fluff of his chest. He groans into your kiss, barely audible over the music and Angel’s fans, and Husk lets his lips travel over your cheek and back to your jaw, the tiny barbs of his tongue making you shudder as it lingers just below your ear.

His attention there urges you to turn your head and brings your eyes back to Angel on stage, and despite your position at one of the more secluded booths, the spider’s lips turn in a knowing smirk, and he throws you a wink before he moves into the next steps, two hands coming up artfully behind him to unfasten the strings of beads draped over his torso.

“C’mere,” Husk mutters into your neck, kissing you again before urging you to sit on his lap. Your back is cradled against his chest, and you shiver as his claws come up to brush hair away from your ear so he can kiss the column of your throat. “Watch him.”

You train your eyes on Angel Dust obediently, breath catching in your throat as Husk takes hold of your hips and nips lightly at your collarbone just as Angel drops to his knees, whips his hair out of his eyes and bends down, sliding his chest slowly across the stage with his ass high in the air. The move is so sensual, one so reminiscent of the way you’ve seen him grind back against Husk… and Angel meets your eye again.

Husk groans, low and rough, as he thrusts into Angel in a slow, deep rhythm, bottoming out and lingering with each push forward of his hips before withdrawing again. Angel’s back is arched in a way that’s almost poetic, his chest pressed into the sheets. His upper hands reach up to grip at your calves as you sit and watch them, your back against the headboard. Husk is watching you hungrily, eyes drinking in every shift in your expression. There’s a vibrator tucked in your panties, the remote tucked into one of Angel’s fists. The spider meets your eye for a moment before his eyes roll back, a bead of drool staining the fur of his chin as is jaw hangs slack.

You feel yourself flush.

The bartender notices even in the pulsing lights of the club, snickering against your skin as his tongue tickles at the nape of your neck. His paws tighten on your hips and press forward, pull back, guiding you into a slow grind over his lap. He presses his thigh up between your legs, continuing the gentle assault of the side of your throat with his lips and tongue.

“Don’t he look good, baby?” Husk purrs, smoothing his hands down to your thighs. He kneads his grip into the plush muscle, still guiding you to roll your hips over his lap. You can feel hardening beneath you, and you angle your hips to grind your cunt along the length of him. Husk groans, claws tightening on your thighs reflexively. “That’s it, doll…”

You aren’t the only sinners in the room charged up by Angel’s performance, and the low hint of moans and heavy breathing around you adds to the eroticism of the moment. Husk’s wings curve around your shoulders, hiding you from private eyes possessively, in turn making the two of you a private show just for the star on stage. Angel’s eyes keep flickering back to the two of you, and he does nothing to hide the lust burning in his eyes. The smile that plays over his features is one you’ve seen so many times before – at the bar, or during group activities. One that promises so much fun once he gets the two of you alone.

Angel rocks his hips roughly over Husk’s, grinding his ass down over the bartender’s erection. His cock fills him with each push of his hips, and the spider moans in a broken pitch at the feeling of it. Husk groans up into your cunt, his arms wrapped possessively around your thighs to keep in you place over his face. His tongue curls against your clit before dipping into your dripping pussy, and your moan sounds in tandem with Angel’s.

The spider touches your cheek, brushing hair behind your ear and fisting his hand in it. He drags you into a kiss, pushing his tongue into your mouth so you can feel the way he moans when Husk thrusts up into him.

“Can’t wait to get the two o’ you home,” Husk groans, claws skimming up under your skirt as you continue to ride his lap. He lets his forehead fall against your shoulder, bumps his nose against your shoulder blade. “Gonna make you feel so good, baby…”

“Why… why wait?” you ask, turning your head to press a kiss between his ears. Husk tilts his head back, catches your lips with his. “D’you think Angel has a private dressing room back there?”

“Fuck, doll…”

[madi2112]

I came on too strong.

Now I pay the price .

The ultimate price.

Yes, the other shoe dropped and she officially pulled the plug.

I lost her. 😞 😢 😭

Laura walked away today. She let me know we wanted different things in the relationship. She needed a friend. I wanted more and she wasn't ready to go there.

I should have kept my mouth shut. Should have played it closer to the vest. Should have just been there for her. No expectations, no pressure.

I ust couldn't do that. I had to share what was in my heart. It cost me.

Stupid heart.

We had a really good time on Friday at the burlesque show.

We had a light dinner, talked a lot and enjoyed the show.

I'm sure it was the "talked a lot" that got me in trouble. She has (er.... had 😔) a way of causing me to say things so freely and easily it was scary.

Too bad I said to much.

So now all I can do is hope that somehow we find our way back to each other.

Although I think that's a long shot. She's too smart, too kind, too wonderful and way too beautiful to settle for someone like me. Especially since all she wanted was a close friend and I screwed that up by wanting too much.

Although it wasn't hard to predict this outcome.

It's me afterall. Unlovable and unwanted me.

The universe gave me a couple of months of bliss. How dare you be happy! How dare you care for someone! How dare you!!

Sor it took it all away.

Now what?

I don't know.

Throw myself into my work? Of course

Give up on dating? Absolutely.

Hope Laura comes back? With all my heart, yes.

Which I guess is what got me in trouble in the first place.

~Madison 💔

[yourlocaltrashpandaxoxo]

Punch Out Women's Bracket OCs (Major Circuit)

The boys have had their turn, now it's time for the ladies! They're back and better than ever! Name: Min Bong-Cha Age: 25 Height: 5'4 Weight: 122lbs Nationality: Korean Position: #3 Major Circuit Record: 15-4 (10 KO) Stance: Southpaw (Left-Handed) "Bong-Cha is a respectful and very talented young woman who's boxing skills are very impressive for someone who's only at the end of the Major Circuit. She's also a massive stickler for rules, however, and is very strict about sticking to her routines and training regiments. She could actually go beyond her current position but she'd rather keep her placement out of sheer humbleness" Name: Princess Primate/Nina Age: Late 20s Height: 6'2 Weight: 153lbs Nationality: ??? Position: #2 Major Circuit Record: 12-6 (8 KO) Stance: Southpaw (Left-Handed) "A brave jungle warrior who was raised by a 'tribe' of apes, monkeys and gorillas when she was a young girl, Nina's entire life story sounds like something out of an urban myth. Nobody is quite sure HOW she managed to survive as long as she did in the deep jungle but it sharpened her into a decent fighter with a mischievous tendency of tossing banana peels into the ring to watch her opponent slip around" Name: Destiny Diamondback/Layaali Anour Bayoumi Age: 29 Height: 5'11 Weight: 136lbs Nationality: Arabian Position: #1 Major Circuit Record: 14-6 (4 KO) Stance: Orthodox (Right-Handed) "This talented young magician was gifted her amazing magical qualities at birth thanks to an unusual gemstone being fused to her stomach. She's capable of levitation, teleportation, non-corporeal cloning and, her specialty, hypnotism. She'll attempt to charm her opponents like a snake while allowing her slithery companions to try and bite at them while they're in a state of bliss... Ideally, have a snake bite kit handy if you're going into the ring with her" Name: Senorita Caliente/Sofia Valentina Age: 32 Height: 5'11 Weight: 151lbs Nationality: Mexican-Spanish Position: Major Circuit Champion Record: 15-10 (7 KO) Stance: Orthodox (Right-Handed) "A gorgeous, flirty and slightly hypnotic young lady, Sofia is eye candy for all who have the pleasure of being in her presence and isn't shy to show off a little skin for her mostly male-dominated audience. When she isn't boxing, she's either waitressing at her parents' restaurant or performing as a burlesque dancer before coming back home to her lovely girlfriend. You'll feel a severe case of heartburn after stepping in the ring with her"

[pastlivesandpurplepuppets]

The truth was that Vandegrift’s Marines were actually on a kind of ignorantly blissful frolic. They had already made light of Savo by renaming it “The Battle of the Five Sitting Ducks,” and they gave proof of how little they understood the consequences of that naval disaster by talking confidently of returning to New Zealand in three weeks, or whenever it was that the Army, the lowly “dogfaces,” would arrive to relieve them, the heroes of the Pacific. Then these invincible young warriors—most of whom had yet to see the silhouette of the enemy’s mushroom helmet—would bask in the tender and accommodating admiration of the young ladies of Wellington while consuming acres of steak-and-eggs and quaffing cool oceans of down under beer. In the meantime, they gamboled. They discovered and plundered a warehouse stuffed with quarts of Japanese beer and balloon-like half-gallon flasks of Japanese sake. They buried the loot in the cool sands of the sea, digging it up at night to drink and revel just like the good old moonshining days at New River; and sometimes, because they had underestimated the power of enemy wine, there were ferocious night “battles” fought between tipsy sentries. Almost every night there was the burlesque provided by men who could not pronounce the passwords. All of the passwords—Lollipop, Lallapaloozer, Lolligag—were loaded with L’s because of the Japanese difficulty with that sound. But polysyllabic passwords also sat awkwardly on the tongues of Marines such as the rifleman who awoke to relieve himself on the night the password was “Lilliputian.” “Halt!” the sentry cried. “Fer Gawd’s sake, Lucky, don’t shoot. It’s me, Briggs.” “Gimme the password.” “Lily-poo … luly …” “C’mon, c’mon! The password, or I’ll let you have it.” “Luly-pah … lily-poosh …” Silence, and then, in outrage: “Aw, shit—shoot!”

~ Robert Leckie

[sweetheartia]

{lumidouce was your flower} ao3

{chapter one: ‘what the moon really means’}

‿︵‿︵୨˚̣̣̣͙୧ - - ୨˚̣̣̣͙୧‿︵‿︵ “You know…i’ve heard that in Snezhnaya, colored lights dance in the sky at night…When we’re older, should we go see it together?”

A young girl with eyes as bright and hopeful as the skies she adored had quipped; a small necklace with a pendant shaped in a lumidouce was gracing her neck.

“Mm.” Peruere didn’t understand why lights were enough to enthuse her. To enthuse anybody. The stars didn’t bring hope. The moon wasn’t beautiful, it mocked her. It always dictated the rest of the sky.

Clervie had noticed the aura of silent indifference the other was displaying, and turned to push open the window behind her.

“I love the lights because…I think they symbolize hope—in such a wonderful way!”

She had joyfully stated, the beauty of the sky she was discussing reflected in her bright light green eyes. 

”They illuminate the dark night sky…in the same way faith illuminates a dark time…don’t you think?”

“Love…?” Peruere questioned quietly. Love wasn’t something that belonged in the Hearth. Sometimes, although she’d never admit it, she envied how hopeful bliss came so natural to the other.

Peruere never found it quite fair, how easily Clervie found the sun, while she could not see past the moons shadows.

The pink haired girl simply returned a soft smile.

“Can I show you something?” 

“Hmm?”

Clervie pulled a small music box out of a small pocket on her dress, and even Peruere had to admit it had a drawing atmosphere to it. 

It was circular, with intricate small diamonds, and ripple designs on it. The rim was lined with small lumidouce flowers. 

Once she’d opened it up, it revealed two swans on a small disk. But…they were different. One was white, and looked to be flying upwards, the other a dark swan, that remained on the disk, looking down. 

Clervie went on to take off the necklace. and interlocked it onto the bottom of the music box. She twisted it a few times, and after she let go, it started playing a soft tune.

No other words were exchanged that night. The pair remained by the opened window, quietly finding solace in the other, as they listened to a soft harmony under the moonlights presence. 

One thought it to be peaceful, the other a testament of the curse she beared.

‿︵‿︵୨˚̣̣̣͙୧ - - ୨˚̣̣̣͙୧‿︵‿︵

Saccharine. That’s the word that came to mind when she looked at Clervie. She possessed a type of sweetness that even her own favored desserts would envy.

Sunshine. That’s what she was. Not only because of the warmth and light she exhibited, no. But much like the sun, Peruere’s world seemed to revolve around her. She never quite understood how this girl became such an epicenter in her life, but she did. 

Eclipse. That’s what Peruere felt she was when ‘Mother’ showered her with praise and reduced her daughter to pleading for affection. What a pathetic excuse of a ‘friend’ she was. 

She often wondered what words came to Clervie’s mind when she gazed upon her. She wondered if she’d ever know.

‿︵‿︵୨˚̣̣̣͙୧ - - ୨˚̣̣̣͙୧‿︵‿︵

The moon. it was always that dreaded moon.

It thought her to be a joke, didn’t it?

It was laughing at her. 

She hated its light.

She hated it wouldn’t just leave her be.

She hated it was always there.

Peruere understood now. Clervie didn’t see the sun because the moon wasn’t there. No…she saw the sun because that’s what fate gave her.

Fate pitied Clervie. Fate burlesqued Peruere.

For Clervie, fate agreed. For Peruere, fate acquiesced. 

Clervie was the sun, because she persevered beyond the stars.

Peruere was the moon, because she damned herself to darkness. 

Snezhnaya had a reputation for its cold nature, and tonight, she saw why. Not only was the dungeon she was currently locked in freezing, but it destroyed inner warmth as well.

Peruere emptily stared across from her. she had earlier overheard some of the guards, wondering how a young teenager took down the 4th on her own. How a mere child defeated a revered harbinger without accomplices.

She didn’t quite remember how it went down either. She just remembered seeing red. It’s hard to drag yourself out the shadows when a prevalent light was destroyed right before you.

‿︵‿︵୨˚̣̣̣͙୧ - - ୨˚̣̣̣͙୧‿︵‿︵

”I’m sorry.”

”Th…thank you.”

She would forever be a cursed, haunted thing, wouldn’t she?

‿︵‿︵୨˚̣̣̣͙୧ - - ୨˚̣̣̣͙୧‿︵‿︵

[musicmoreweirdthangood]

Jellyfish, 1991: "Ignorance is Bliss" from the bizarre compilation album "White Knuckle Scorin'". The album includes some famous tracks by Dire Straits and Sheena Easton and a new track by Roy Orbison--just what the kids wanted--but this particular track sounds like one of those 2010s Evil Nerd Burlesque tracks in which Bowser addresses the Princess (still called "Toadstool" in 1991") to threaten the Mario Brothers.

[aleatoryw]

as tagged by @wordssometimesfail, it's time for the top 10 songs from my on repeat! it's summer soundtrack time babey!

Ride or Die - Hippo Campus. this band has been skirting around my periphery for years bc they're a genre I usually listen to, but i never got into them until spotify suggested this one and the beat hooked me

Hello - Grouplove. somehow every summer grouplove puts out music they manage to make THE song of the summer, just saying.

The Ballad of Mr Steak - Kishi Bashi. weird lyrics, phenomenal violin playing, groovy synth. I've had one or two kishi bashi songs in my playlists for a few years but recently decided to expand and listen to more of his discography and found this banger right away

American Blood - Passion Pit. new music from passion pit my best friend passion pit???? in 2023??? yes and he nails it again <3

Pink Pony Club - Chappell Roan. this one is brand new to me - I attended a burlesque show and one of the performers danced to this song - but it's SUCH an earworm. it's also conveniently right in my vocal range so i've been singing it a lot.

Hot Pink - Cousin Tony's Brand New Firebird. my local college radio station played this song a while back and this entire album has been on repeat ever since, but this one is still my fave. the singer's voice is so deep and rich.

Kids with Guns - Gorillaz. currently making and listening to a playlist for my beloved OC Nimble, who was raised in a crime family and started holding a gun at a pretty young age.

Capacity - Charly Bliss. another band with a really distinct lead singer, but in the opposite direction - both girlish and grungy, high and tinged with vocal fry. the rest of the band also slaps.

songs 9 and 10 on my list are repeat artists (another Charly Bliss song and another Cousin Tony's Brand New Firebird) so I'm breaking the pattern to plug two songs from lower on the list. Cold Cold Man by Saint Motel has been stuck in my head for days (that piano opening is so catchy!), and Can't Behave by Courtney Jaye is my current go to sing in the shower song - this is another one gifted to me by the campus radio station and shazam.

Thanks for tagging me!! cordially inviting @sleepsong, @mikeykeats22, @plantboy-elliott, @sadspacegoat, and anyone who has read my new star wars fic to participate :)

[deepautumncolors]

💅🏻 ~Manicure Monday~ 💅🏻

Hi everyone! I really wanted orange nails for Halloween but I didn’t feel like doing them myself, so I went to get a manicure and pedicure on Friday. I used the gift certificate that my husband gave me for Christmas last year. Rather than choosing one of their colors at the salon, I brought my own with me. It’s called Take the Stage from OPI’s Holiday 2010 Burlesque Collection. I’ve been wearing it every Halloween for the past six or seven years.

It’s a stunning burnt orange color with microglitter and a metallic, foily finish. Although I didn’t apply it myself, I remember that it’s not the easiest polish to work with and the nail technician seemed to have a slight bit of trouble with it as well. It’s very thin, so the first coat is always sheer and uneven. A second coat is definitely necessary. I started to have a little tip wear after the first couple days, so I even added a third one.

I decided to bedazzle them, so I also put a layer of Show You a Gold Time by Bliss Genius Nail Polish over it. This is the only polish by that brand that I own. I found it in a clearance bin at Kohl’s a few years ago and got it for under three dollars. This is one of my favorite color combos to wear on my nails! Last year I wore it over a lighter orange, but I like it better on top of this darker one instead. The last time I reviewed these colors together, I only had it on my ring fingernails. I haven’t put it on all ten along with this orange since 2019 if I’m not mistaken, so this is what it looks like on all of them:

It’s comprised of gold and orange hexagon glitter suspended in a clear base. There was no shortage of the bigger sized glitter, so I didn’t have to fish around for it and I didn’t have any trouble spreading it around evenly on my nails. Autumn is the only time of year I get to wear it, so I make sure to break it out every October and sometimes November. Since the glitter also acts as an additional topcoat, my nail polish will probably stick around for a few extra days longer than it normally would (and I have a feeling the removal may be a little difficult).

🖤🧡 Happy Halloween! 🧡🖤

[stargirlfics]

omg i'm so glad you asked for alfred asks because i'm dying over the gentleman! and the burlesque aspect is so fun and cheeky!! and it makes so much sense for alfred?!! a man as detailed and patient as that would love the tease of a performance. but that got me thinking about alfred and roleplay 🥴️🥴️🥴️ i just feel like he would love the buildup and playfulness

thots? hehe

Ahh thank you!!! 💌

The burlesque dance in Chapter 3 was truly something out of one of my dreams to write like I had such detailed images of how I wanted it to go! Cause yes! He’s so patient and good mannered and traditional in the sense of really loving the romance and seduction a performance would give 😍 so happy you also felt it suited him!

But ooh Alfred + roleplay? I am thinking thoughts!!

I know some of Alfred’s backstory includes him being a trained actor so I think it would be so easy for him to indulge in a fantasy of playing a character with you, you’re so right about the buildup it would it would create and it’s fun because it’s playful, you’re having fun playing a role together

Think about him changing the tone of his voice a little, wearing his clothes a certain way to adhere to the role or handling you differently when you ask him to roleplay something with him!

He’s so convincing it makes for such an immersive experience, even before he gets you undressed in any way cause he’s definitely the kind of partner who wants you to have the best experience possible, just to see your face all blissed out at the end! <3

[libidomechanica]

“Nothing—Ill not be: thee wrong”

That draught of falling to be mowne.     Nothing—I’ll not be: thee wrong! If possible, and sleek and     sword in their parks some rum a disappointed dart, and, horrors     which him slumber. But

being took a whim to stranger,     and felt humblest Scholar traveling through they felt the freshness     of loue might at a time. Like life or maid, all damp and     said: O Jupiter, should

awakes—and, stranger’ dying,     with a moral like truant rogues the deer from Haidee’s heart,     is of no great black sacrament. Who spoke not our father     wills not what thyself refused;

and lost. The charms from its velvet     summer sometimes seem to be most instance—Ninon de     l’Enclos. So said that now leapt from your soul had been all the     color and adore. For

his kind of my native fire! Panted     round it not as are those gentle girl and ached for the     boat and glimmering lanes and fair, no more of bliss, and languish     does hast never more

because the honey sprung from the     branches, poor flower: o folly! And fed with morning slow,     and Vesper, for the feathery grave! Towards him clayme with a     convulsions rack’d, chewing a

little creek below like brutes     warm before him that the fuel; and little tired, you sleep,     as I gain, so might be thy state, that kydst the gnarled hail-storm,     down by Sandford, yields. I

feel the pleasant field, thy youth: but     we ride. We tell me, what is my heart is a kitten of     butter, although spring- dew of roses heard; that some side     doth Beauty covers o’er

some fancie feede hearkens not! My one     children out, scoop after for a hunting goes; with burlesque,     and come as ye may lighted their right the finger, told thee     thus in lasts in that draught—

young Phoebe sayles, when aware of     their glazed, and dream of such a subject; and he saw within     his heart of Ruth, where the blissful cloud girth of Jove, those     petticoat—Alas! Through deep.

[pulsdmedia]

The Week Ahead 4/16-4/22

After a hot, hot weekend, we’re feeling like summer is already in full swing, and we’re still in spring! It’s proving to be a good, sunshine-filled sign for fabulous times ahead, so plan accordingly...

A 4 Course Chef’s Tasting Astrology Dinner With Cocktails & Goodie Bag

Out-of-this-world flavors, delectable drinks, and cosmic vibes will be aplenty at the ultra-chic Walker Hotel Greenwich Village, whose Chef’s Tasting Astrology Dinner is set to wow your taste buds. Begin your night of transportive gourmet curiosity with time in the presence of a tarot card reader and incense burning in the gorgeous alcove at Walker Hotel, then making your way over to Society Cafe where Executive Chef Nicholas McCann will walk you through a Taurus-themed 4 course feast. More an immersive experience, Chef McCann will be on deck to present his creations, meet & greet with attendees, and explain the inspiration for dishes like the New Harvest comprised of tuna tartare, pomegranate, green strawberry, and nori tuile, as well as the Spring Offerings - think tender grilled beef cheek, smoked new potato, asparagus, ramps, and rosemary. While you dine, sip on a Raging Bull Cocktail (scotch, lemon, mint, pomegranate), wrapping up with a sweet dessert, a fully-stocked goodie bag, and a fabulous excuse to celebrate & revel in Taurus season...

Hill House Home & Lele Sadoughi Sale

Join 260 Sample Sale at their NoMad location to shop amazing deals on two great brands! Enjoy deep discounts on various sizes and colors of Hill House Home's signature Nap Dress and super sweet hair accessories from Lele Sadoughi to complete your look!

$49 Table For Two To A Night Of Cocktails & Burlesque At A Speakeasy

If you've ever fancied yourself over the top show or subscribe to the belief that diamonds really are a girl's best friend, you'll adore Jewel Theif’s sparkling speakeasy, awash in emerald, gold, topaz, & ruby hues. An exotic hidden den where international thieves unwind amongst the lush and opulent treasures they skillfully coveted, Jewel Thief will tap into sin & spectacle as daring, ultra-talented burlesque performers work the stage and room for you to enjoy. While your jaw-drops, quench your thirst with glasses of divine wine, or a signature cocktail, namely the Harry's Diamonds with Tanqueray Seville, bergamot, and grapefruit, best enjoyed alongside a plate of Hamachi Crudo (fresh yellowtail, citrus, jalapeño, EVOO, sea salt, radish). After work or as the sexiest date night idea, immerse yourself in this under-the-radar hideaway - and leave your inhibitions at the door...

A Discussion With Al Pacino

In a rare appearance on the 92NY stage, hear Al Pacino discuss the personal history behind his craft — ranging from his early theater work to his breakout roles in The Godfather, Serpico, and Dog Day Afternoon to his magnetic recent appearances in The Irishman and his new Amazon series Hunters. Don’t miss this American icon reflecting on why he has remained a towering presence in American film and theater for over half a century.

$19 Ticket To Whitmans Flight Club: Beers, Burgers & More At Hudson Yards

Wake up your Wednesday with an indulgent serving of craft beers, drool-worthy burgers, and 3 hours of great times at Whitmans Hudson Yards, whose beloved Flight Club returns again, this time showcasing tasty beers from EBBS Brewing Co. Straight out of Williamsburg, EBBS Brewing Co. is pulling out their favorite brews for you to savor with your pals. You'll tipple from a flight of 3 of their most fabulous beers - something worth cheers-ing for! Once you've worked your way through the flight, enjoy a full pint of your favorite as you prepare for your succulent nosh! As you delight in the effervescence of these marvelous brews, you'll get lost in even more flavorful bliss as you bite into the most flavorful, succulent burger - comprised of a beef short rib blend patty, seared onion, lettuce, tomato, new pickles, and special sauce on a potato bun. Come thirsty, hungry, and ready for all the flavors in store...

Fashion Culture Talk On Christian Dior

Dior’s official biography reveals the secretive and surprising man who revolutionized fashion. The book offers new insight on his spirituality and relationships, as well as a contemporary perspective on his legacy. Marie-France Pochna is an expert on fashion and trends in the luxury market, a professor, and a TV producer. Hear all she has to offer and then get the booked signed!

[dr-archeville]

Curious about the world of local burlesque?  There's more to it than "sex sells."  The art form was brought from England to the United States in the latter part of the nineteenth century, and modern burlesque is commonly known as neo-burlesque.  It encourages people to become more confident in their bodies.  It's also extremely entertaining to watch dancers tastefully tease the audience while also providing a laugh.  Let's be clear: It's not stripping.  It's more theatrical and, in most cases, not fully nude.

Across the nation and in the Triangle, burlesque has flourished in recent years, as anyone who watches the INDY's events calendars must have noticed.  If you follow the scene at all, one name that keeps coming up is Bliss Floccare, aka Miss Bliss.  I've known Bliss for years; we worked together to coordinate a series of burlesque dance parties from 2012–2014.  Bliss is the founder of the burlesque troupe Boom OR Bust, which performs all over the Triangle, including two Prohibition-era-themed speakeasy shows at Criterion in Durham this Saturday, sponsored by Bedlam Vodka, a new "grain-to-glass" vodka from Durham's Graybeard Distillery.

When celebrity burlesque dancer Dita Von Tease, who gained international attention when she was briefly married to Marilyn Manson, came to the Ritz in Raleigh in April, I thought it would be fitting to interview the Raleigh burlesque queen at the international one's show.  She discussed confidence and sexuality and the cultural reasons for burlesque's surging popularity, and she shared a few tricks of the trade.

INDY: How did you get into burlesque?

BLISS FLOCCARE: When I was eighteen, I went to a rockabilly show.  I had no idea there would be burlesque performers there, but I was instantly in love.  I had been a dancer, model, theater performer, and generally a free spirit my whole life.  This art form seemed to embody all of that for me.  I started dancing burlesque that year and started my troupe, Boom OR Bust, about two years later.

What makes a great burlesque dancer?  What makes an awful one?

Great stage performers usually all have one underlying thing.  It's what we call stage presence, pizazz, or simply confidence.  If this is missing, it's harder to capture an audience's attention.

When you are on stage, you seem to transform into someone else.  Would you say Miss Bliss is your alter ego?

I wouldn't say that Miss Bliss is my alter ego.  I'd say that on stage I am at my most confident and unapologetic.  A lot of that has to do with creating a space for myself and my performers where we can feel comfortable.  I've cultivated my audience and shows over many years to do just that.

What do you look for when you choose someone to perform with Boom OR Bust?

Beyond dance talent and creativity, I love to see some grit in my performers.  Burlesque, like anything else, is not always easy or glamorous.  I want to know that they can hang if our dressing room is a broom closet, or perform in an awkward situation.

How would someone create their personal burlesque name?

I think most performers choose something about themselves, their career, or their appearance, and tie it in with a fine word.  I always encourage my students to research their names before settling on one to make sure no one in the area has the same name.

Who makes your costumes?

Most of us nighttime burlesquers make our own costumes.  I can't tell you how many hours of my life I've spent rhinestone-ing, hot gluing, and hand stitching!

What do you find sexy?

I love when I see a hiccup on stage — for instance, a wardrobe malfunction or a music issue, and the performer is able to sail right through it.  This takes improv skills and confidence.

What's the best and worst thing a fan has done at a show?

My fans are pretty amazing.  They are so supportive, and hearing the influence a show or performance has had on them is always really gratifying.

The worst?

I've had all kinds of silly things happen at shows: change being thrown at me, women screaming at me to put clothes on.  But in the end, those instances don't amount to the positive ones.

What do you say when people criticize burlesque as being degrading to women?

More and more people are learning how important it is to take control of their sexuality.  It's not something that should be hidden; it should be celebrated.  I hope that even people who have doubts will come see a show and realize what a beautiful, empowering expression burlesque is.  And that goes for all sex work.  Find someone who works in the industry and just talk to them.  We are all humans trying to live our best life.   It just so happens that ours include taking our clothes off in public.

Why do you think burlesque in the past five years has become so popular?  What makes people respond?

I think this has a lot to do with people becoming more comfortable with self-expression and sexuality.  Gender fluidity and sex work are becoming more commonly talked about topics.  People want to see the body celebrated, they want a taste of the past, and they want live entertainment.

BOOM OR BUST: GREEN LIGHT BURLESQUE Saturday, Jul. 7, 8 & 10 p.m., $25 Criterion, Durham www.facebook.com/boomorbustburlesque

[oro-e-diamanti]

Quiet Music: Poco a poco forte

In collaboration with @bethanysnow (whose askbox is always open!)

Jealousy was never a good look with stardust in the other’s eyes. Boundaries are tested. Fantasies are made hot and heavy with some alcohol. Will they make it back to the hotel all in one piece?

Content | Fluff

Pairing | fem!Reader x Damiano

Word Count | 5845

Taglist | @damianodavide @lizstans @unitersmoonshine @its-afucking-mess @ethaneskin @dont-let-me-drown-in-you @vampirtet @lividisuigomiti @juststalking @tabi-toast @ethan-torchio-angelo @cheese-toastie-11 @thewitchinthemountain @ethanesimp @sofckinelectric @man3skin @daddydamiano @finelinejpm @superchrystaldrug @ginny-lily @nientedaridere @rainbowmarta @tiaamberxx @shaunthesheesh @enjcltaire @rocketqueen @aleksanderwh0r3 @damianodavidhands @megann-duff @teatrodellavita @coven-daddy @till-you-scream-and-cry @solasullabarca @fanfictionandfluff @makapaka11 @slave4yourlove @geklutst-ei  @marriedwithmarktuan @bookish0918 @mehrmonga @kanevill @butterfly-skinnylegend @lidiyabest @killerqueen1985 @ccweasley @bluscryn @deluxeplanteater @ohtorchio @messyhairday-me @bidet-and-legolas @maybanksslut​ @fuckim-so-gay @demoiselle-en-detresse00 @petit-poussin @fedorable-killjoys @luvbadass @buttercup-beeee @navs-bhat @etaerealboyv  @tryymebitch @mell-bell @fenhakwe @solacestyles @softforlukescurls @vicsangel @theimpossiblehologramtree​

***

Copenhagen was a whirlwind that barely left any time to breathe. Even the short break Y/n was granted in between was promptly used to make a dash for the nearest tourist shop. Adding a fridge magnet to her growing collection. No misses so far. She’d be lying if she wasn’t proud of it. Victoria gave a little tour through the city, giving ample opportunity to provide the fans with content via various social media platforms. A mad scramble back to the venue, soundcheck, dinner. A gig full of little mishaps, including Ethan losing a drumstick halfway through and Damiano almost tumbling off stage. At least the crew had gotten into a groove, ‘new tour’ jitters finally forgotten. That night, at the hotel, Y/n had found herself standing outside her door, empty ice bucket in hand. Somewhat wondering, hoping, someone would join her. Not just anyone. Him. But she wouldn’t knock on his door and he didn’t come to hers. It wasn’t to be. At least not that night. 

The morning had brought the band another wake-up call from Y/n. Everyone was starting to settle into their routine. Get ready, get on the bus, get handed coffee by Y/n. She would be lying if she said she wasn’t enjoying this little comfort of domestic bliss, taking care of the people she was starting to consider friends. It felt right.

***

Damiano’s morning wasn’t quite as peaceful. His thoughts were plagued by images of Y/n. His decision to ‘cool it’ and back off a little seemed to be biting him in the arse. When she had come around to wake him up, she had been in a partially sheer blouse, black jeans and boots and he thought she looked like the perfect little alternative housewife. Luring him out of bed with the promise of coffee and breakfast. Now he was sitting on the couch on the bus, watching Y/n fly around the little kitchenette and he couldn’t keep his eyes off her bum in those jeans.

Nope, he wasn’t going to do anything about it. Not now. The conversation with Victoria two nights ago was still ringing in his head. He had decided she was right - no use in pursuing anything unless he was certain what he was feeling and what he wanted out of it. He would still have enough time to make his move once he figured it out. Right? He didn’t know what Y/n was thinking. Or what she thought of him, so no use dwelling on it. Still the thought struck him, he barely knew anything about her. He should probably talk to her more. Infallible logic, he thought to himself. Backing off and talking to her at the same time. Great.

“Y/n… how do you usually take your coffee, by the way?”

“Lots of creamer, usually. Sometimes a bit of sugar, if I’m feeling fancy. Or if I’m feeling really fancy at a café, I might get a caramel macchiato.”

“Caramel is always nice.” Of course, she would like caramel, he thought to himself. “Do you normally drink coffee or are you more or stereotypical British tea drinker?”

“I enjoy a cuppa when I’m home, definitely. Italians aren’t exactly known for their tea now, are they?” A smirk appeared on her face, maybe a little baffled by the conversation, but happy to humour him. “Lady Gray is a particular favourite. Followed by breakfast tea with some sugar and milk. Before coffee. I can make you some tea sometime if you fancy?”

“That’d be great. You know, I just had an amazing idea actually,” Damiano grinned. “When we first went to Berlin, there was this amazing tea shop - would you want to go when we have the gig there?”

“That sounds lovely,” Y/n replied. “Of course.”

Another step closer to getting to know her.

***

“Right, we’ve all got an hour until soundcheck and some press things, I’m gonna go take Chili on her walk, you lot do whatever you want until then.”

Y/n had expected a few non-committal grunts, a wave, maybe a “see you later, I’ll go have a nap”, but instead, the whole band seemed to be on their highest energy levels. All of them immediately scrambled to their feet, looking for shoes and jackets, proclaiming they wanted to see the city, maybe take some pictures for Instagram along the way. Y/n wouldn’t dare complain about the company.

It didn’t take them long to reach the harbour, walking along the river as they enjoyed the bustle of town and the view. Y/n found herself pulling out her phone, telling everyone to gather around her.

“I’m no photographer, but I do need some memories of all of this. Thomas, stop pulling that face!” Thomas quickly dropped the grimace as she took the picture, the historic old town in the background. Chili was busy running around between the five of them, loving whoever gave her the attention the most. Y/n thought Victoria was reaching for the leash, already preparing to hand it over, but instead the bassist grabbed her hand. Obviously in a giddy mood, she began swinging their intertwined hands between them as they walked. Y/n couldn’t bite back a smile. She had missed having a close friend ever since she had moved to Italy leaving her best friend behind in the UK and she felt like this blossoming friendship with Victoria could truly begin to fill the void in her heart.

The blonde girl pulled her into a deep hug as Chili decided to go bother Ethan instead.

“I want a photo with just you,” Vic explained, pulling out her own phone for a snapshot. Y/n complied with a sigh but wrapped her arms around her, ready to take the picture. Right as the click went off, Victoria pressed a kiss to her cheek, taking her by surprise. Neither of them could hold back a giggle at her face in the photo.

“I’ve got a surprise for you, by the way,” Y/n spoke up as a little break in the conversation offered itself. If only to distract from the affection and it worked perfectly. All eyes and ears on her. “I’ve booked a little dinner for tonight. But not just any dinner. A burlesque one!”

The group let out various cheers. Thomas immediately ran ahead of the group, shamelessly faking a striptease as they kept walking. Damiano made sure to record the performance, already giggling to himself. Thomas was in the middle of shrugging off his jacket, walking backwards, when - ouch! - he bumped into a pole, heavily bonking his head. Everyone erupted into hysterical laughter, and after rubbing the back of his head with a pour for a moment, even the guitarist joined in.

“You alright?” Y/n asked breathlessly, trying to hide the giggles in her voice, genuinely concerned about him still.

“Besides the fact that I just got all of you to drop your panties for me? I’m great!” The blond grinned at his own joke, as everyone else rolled their eyes.

“Yes! Oh my god, take me Thomas!” Damiano gasped dramatically, pushing himself up against Thomas, who grabbed onto his leg to dip him.

“Wait! Hold on!” Y/n shouted, once again grabbing her phone as the captured the moment. “Now that’s one for the fridge.”

***

Backstage was business as usual. Y/n once again took the time to watch the band soundcheck, always feeling soft looking at the way they played without having to be ‘on’, without putting on a big performance. Yet, she was still in work mode, phone displaying the name of a reporter she was waiting on, along with the name of the magazine she was working for. It didn’t take long for her to appear.

The woman was undeniably beautiful. Thin figure, long, red hair, picture perfect makeup. Even her clothes were pressed, luxury brands decorating her, adding to the pristine image. A press pass hung around her neck, acrylic nails tapping something into her phone. Leaning back, Y/n noticed the particular red leather on the bottom of the woman’s heels.

It was only after putting her phone away that she acknowledged Y/n at all.

“Anywhere I can sit down with the band?” Her eyes barely even met Y/n’s.

“Uh, yeah, once they’re done with soundcheck, they will be in the greenroom,” Y/n said, mustering the woman. “You the reporter?”

“Sure, sure. Can I go there now, sit down, get ready?”

Y/n studied the press pass on the woman’s neck, making sure she was actually the person they were looking for and shrugged. “Alright, follow me.”

She led the reporter further backstage. The greenroom was fitted with a couch and a couple of chairs, a vanity in front of the mirror and makeup already carelessly thrown around. A costume rack in the back.

“Make yourself at home.”

“Thanks,” the woman muttered, looking around the room, obviously dissatisfied with it’s slightly chaotic state and - probably - lack of style. “That’s all I need you for, then.”

Y/n’s eye twitched, busying herself with the clothes, reorganising them to distract herself.

“Sorry to disappoint you, but rules are rules. Can’t be in a room alone, privacy reasons and all that. I’m sure you understand.” 

“Well then.” She carefully placed herself on one of the chairs, highly aware of her posture, her face, and the fact that she’d be right in view of everybody entering the room. “Maybe you can be a bit of help, then. You know, a little insider information between us girls… How into the whole, you know, rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle are they really? I’m talking, drugs, alcohol… groupies?”

It was no question as to what she was hinting at.

“Well, Damiano has a whole tattoo verifying that he hates parties. Plus, they’re not really known for that kind of stuff. And for the interview, I’d rather you stick to the approved questions that your magazine has discussed with our management. There’s no ‘insider information’ here -” Y/n was about to talk herself into a whole rant, when the door opened and the band moved into the room, joyous and hyped for the show that evening.

Victoria was the first to bounce over to Y/n, kissing her cheek, before collapsing on the couch next to her. Ethan, Thomas and Damiano followed suit. Chili had followed the band, now hopping onto the couch and making herself comfortable on Y/n’s lap. Ethan looked over at the reporter, brow raised. “You here to do the interview?”

“Oh you know it,” she winked. Y/n didn’t miss how her whole demeanour had changed and she couldn’t have been more annoyed. “Lovely to meet you all.”

She held out her hand to Ethan, the smirk never leaving her face, before greeting the others in a similar fashion. She held onto Damiano’s hand much longer than the others.

“Nice to meet you,” Damiano said, politely, sitting down as well.

“Oh, that’s no trouble at all,” she beamed at the singer. “Now, you’re here in Hamburg today, and in the part of town most notorious for having Europe’s largest red light district. Do you feel like that’s the perfect background for your gig tonight? You know, with the music you play and the way you dress - it’s not like you’ve been shy about sex in your career so far.” 

They all chuckled slightly.

“Well, sexuality isn’t something to be ashamed about, at least we don’t think so. It’s part of everyday life and part of our own experiences so we put that into music,” Victoria eloquently explained. “And what we’ve seen of the city so far has been very beautiful.”

“Well, maybe I should give you a little tour then, show you the naughty parts of town,” she laughed. “Back on topic though, I imagine touring can be hard, being away from everyone. Do you ever get lonely on tour? For friends or… something else?”

Damiano coughed. “Sure, we get lonely, like anyone else would. But we make a family out of the crew. Everyone on our team is very close to us.” Y/n could clearly see in his eyes that he knew full well what the woman was hinting at. “We love touring, so when you love something, it doesn’t feel like work.”

Ethan nodded in agreement. Y/n could see through all of them easily - none of them wanted to be there.

“Yes, of course, touring can be difficult, but we have fun, so not that bad,” Thomas added.

Y/n didn’t miss the way the reporter briefly looked over her shoulder to muster a reaction from her. “Well I’m sure you’re easily able to find some fun away from your… crew. Lots of parties on tour so far?”

At that point, Y/n was ready to rip the reporter to shreds. But she knew she had to stay professional, and the band was more than able to hold their own, so she stayed quiet. Ethan next to her sat up a little, obviously uncomfortable.

“No, we don’t party. No time.” His vision went dark as he looked at the woman in front of them. As kind and mindful as he usually was, he didn’t shy down when it came to showing his scarier side when he needed to.

“Yeah. We sometimes go to a bar on a day off, but that’s about it. Work is more important,” Victoria threw in as she put an arm around Ethan on the back of the couch.

Y/n felt a wave of pride at the way the band was holding up. It was absolutely no secret to her that they were desperately waiting for this interview to end, annoyed with the reporter and the lines she kept trying to cross, but they stayed polite and professional. She thought that this was what made them real rockstars in that moment.

“Okay, one more question, then. You entered this business really young, you still are, yet you write quite mature music, how do you manage that?”

“We write what we want to write. Perform how we want to perform. I don’t think that has an age limit,” Damiano spoke curtly. His eyes flickered over to their assistant. Y/n was sure he didn’t miss the way she was staring daggers into the back of the reporter’s skull. “And music has always been a passion of ours. We just got lucky really early in life, I guess.”

“Well thank you very much for your time,” the reporter said, standing up, and once again reaching out her hand to say her goodbyes. “Hope to see you around…” As she came to Damiano, Y/n didn’t miss how she stuffed a little note in his hand. “...hopefully.”

“Can I go kick her face now?” Y/n stood up, seething, as soon as the reporter had left the room. “Sorry, no, that’s actually rude. But I’m going to call management and report that woman.”

“Yeah, that… wasn’t cool,” Ethan contemplated. “How about you make that call and then we take your mind off it with the dinner show you booked for us, yeah?”

Y/n took a deep breath, looking at Ethan, whose eyes had turned back to show nothing but kindness. She couldn’t wait to forget about this disaster for the rest of the evening and enjoy herself. With the band in tow, she was sure she would.

***

Damiano hadn’t been quite sure what to expect from dinner that evening - but it wasn’t a table smack in the middle of the first row right in front of the stage. He should have seen it coming, really. When Y/n planned and schemed, she always made sure to get them the best of the best. Determined to make sure everyone was having fun. She truly took care of them like no other.

A waiter was at their table in no time, taking orders for drinks and food, and the openers started before Damiano even had a chance to take a sip of his wine. As soon as it became obvious that the first act of the evening would be pole dancing. The rest of the band started snickering, nudging Damiano’s side. Still, they all watched in amazement as the dancer started their performance, music filling the room.

“You know, I could do that,” Damiano whispered in Y/n’s ear as he leaned in close. She looked over at him - at the performer - back to him.

“Sure you can,” she giggled.

“Oh I can,” Damiano insisted, leaning in closer than necessary now. “And in heels.”

Y/n couldn’t stop herself from coughing, choking ever so slightly on her drink, as her eyes widened and a slight shade of pink appeared on her face.

Damiano simply couldn’t help himself. He knew he had meant to back off, give her a little space, give himself some time to think, but the words simply slipped out. “I can always offer you a private show, you know?”

This time, she only paused for a moment before whispering back, “You teach me pole dancing, I’ll teach you rumba, yeah?”

Fuck, he hadn’t expected her to get the upper hand so quickly. Still, he never once lost his smirk, murmuring a “sure” back at her. She had gotten back her cool, focusing back on her meal now, only looking up to watch the performance every now and then in between bites. She was making it way too hard for him to back off. He wondered if she knew what she was doing to him.

Leaning back into his chair, Damiano watched the performer on stage. They were beautiful, no question about that. Amazing at what they did. It was impossible to keep your eyes off them, even Y/n kept getting distracted. He wondered if she’d look at him the same way if it was him up there. Or if he did a little show himself that night, on stage at their own gig. Catching her attention like the dancer was doing now. Maybe making her lose her mind a little bit. It was worth a try…

The performance was over much too quickly for his liking and only shortly after, the main dancer of the evening was announced to go on stage soon. It didn’t take long for the lights dimming, before fading to black completely. A hush falling over the crowd. A spotlight found a petite, blonde bombshell in the middle of the stage. Perfectly sculpted hair, blue boa feather skirt, a glitter corset that dripped with silver and gold accents. She seemed to be glistening under the stage light, body glitter accenting all the right curves and features. Then she turned around.

Damiano’s jaw dropped - along with just about everyone else’s. She was così bella, un angelo. She walked to the front of the stage as the crowd cheered and whistled. Damiano was enraptured by her. She was mystifyingly beautiful. Each move was carefully planned out, knowing exactly what she was doing and how to do it. She was feeding off the crowd, spurred on by the shouts and comments, as she moved across the stage.

Damiano’s eyes followed her closely. He felt hypnotised by her performance. He had never given burlesque much thought, but this show was changing his mind rapidly. The only thing to pull him out of his was a sigh - a disgruntled noise maybe - coming from his left. It was hard to make out Y/n’s face in the dark, he realised as he turned towards her. But if he’d learned anything about her body language in the past days, he was certain that she wasn’t happy. Her arms were crossed in front of her and she was leaned back in her chair in a way that tried to suggest she wasn’t bothered. But she was. He just couldn’t figure out why.

He was distracted when the dancer was back in front of their table, looking down at them from the stage. She sent all of them a wink, before pulling the elbow-length gloves off one by one and throwing them to the side with a smile. She mesmerised him, even as she moved away from them to give another table some attention. Yet, Y/n was playing at the back of his mind.

Why did she seem so mad? She was the one who had booked this dinner, why wasn’t she having fun? Was she still preoccupied with the reporter from before? Sure, that one had definitely stepped over lines, but he thought they’d all gotten out of there pretty unscathed. And the reporter's number had wandered into the bin immediately. He considered the matter closed.

The woman on stage slowly lowered herself into a split, causing pretty much the whole audience to lose their minds. This was too good. More cheers and applause from everywhere. Damiano heard Vic shouting vague words of encouragement as the woman lost her bra, only pasties covering her nipples now. Y/n let out a little groan and from the corner of his eye, he could see her rolling hers. This time, Damiano wasn’t the only one who noticed. He watched as Victoria and Ethan exchanged looks, then nods, and finally shrugs.

Finally the performance ended, the dancer leaving the stage with another wink and kiss blown towards them. Damiano wished it could’ve gone on for longer. These people knew how to turn sex into art, and he’d by lying if he said it didn’t inspire him.

“Okay, gather up, no time to waste,” Y/n order, getting up from her seat the second the lights were turned back on. “You have a show to play and I don’t want you to be late.”

Damiano threw another look around. Even Thomas, who had been too preoccupied drooling over the dancer to notice anything else, was now staring at Y/n questioningly.

“What’s going on with her?” The guitarist asked as they all gathered their stuff and followed their assistant outside.

“Fuck if I know,” Damiano mumbled. “But I wanna find out, sooner or later.”

***

It wasn’t like her to be jealous. She didn’t care much about what other people found enthralling. But Damiano had looked at the dancer as if she was god’s gift to humanity. Yes, she was pretty, yes, she knew how to shake her arse. Was it all that special? The dancer was petite, a perfect fit for Damiano’s arms. A perfect figure to match his. Y/n was confident, she knew she was beautiful, but unfortunately the rest of the world didn’t always think the same. Unlike the dancer on stage. That woman was more than beautiful… She was palatable, sexy, perfect in all the ways a woman should be. Qualities that Y/n was currently convinced she didn’t possess any of.

Okay, maybe she was jealous. But she didn’t have any right to be. The dancer was simply doing her job. And so what, if Damiano had fancied her? It wasn’t like they were together. She worked for him, that was all. She didn’t have any right to want anything from him beyond that.

The fresh air hit her face as she left the venue, forcing some clarity onto her. She’d have to get a grip and get back to focusing on her job. It’s what she was there for, after all.

***

Victoria bounced over the Y/n as she left the venue, full of adrenaline and happiness from the show she had just watched.

“That was amazing, Y/n! Where did you get the idea for this being today’s dinner?” She asked, hooking onto the assistant’s arm.

“Looked up places we could go online, found this one in a travel blog. Said it had amazing wine so I thought we could check it out,” she explained without looking up from her hands, which were toying with the receipt.

“Well, you sure do have impeccable taste,” Victoria grinned and kissed her cheek. It seemed to pull Y/n out of her head enough to look up at the bassist. But Vic’s smile vanished quickly when she saw the look in her eyes. It was cloudy, gloomy, enough to make Victoria freeze up. Thomas was excitedly chattering about the show in the performance in the background, how hot he thought the performers were, especially the last dancer. Damiano eagerly agreed. Y/n’s seemed to have a flash of venom on her face, and suddenly it clicked in Vic’s mind. Oh, she knew that look well, had carried it herself a couple of times in her life.. She was jealous. Y/n was jealous of the way they all - or maybe, someone in particular - had reacted to the woman on stage. And she was doing a bad job hiding it.

As soon as the car pulled up, everyone scrambled to get it. Y/n immediately started bouncing her leg, still a stormy look in her eyes. If it didn’t seem so serious, Victoria would be amused at the state their assistant was in. Yet, with the expression on her face right then and there, the bassist didn’t dare make a joke.

Damiano was sitting next to Y/n, and Victoria desperately tried to catch his eye. It took a slight kick against his shin to get him to look at her. She flickered eyes back and forth between Damiano and Y/n, motioning him towards the woman. Hoping he would understand. Luckily, they’d long gotten used to reading the other’s face, no need for a verbal conversation. Damiano looked down at Y/n’s hands, still picking at the receipt, and he quickly grabbed one of them. Interlacing their fingers and offering her a smile when she looked up. Her leg stopped bouncing immediately.

“You alright?” He whispered.

“Yeah. Am now.”

Victoria couldn’t bite back the smile on her face, quickly turning towards her phone to be less oblivious. Those two would do just fine, sooner or later, she was sure of it.

***

The concert venue was smaller than some of the others they’d been playing on this tour, but if anything, it had caused the crowd to be even more rowdy. Y/n once again sat to the side of the stage, engrossed in her phone. Damiano snuck a peek through the curtain, before retreating and watching Y/n instead. She didn’t seem half as gloomy as she did at the dinner show. But a certain forlorn quality was still obvious. She had never been this type of obviously sad or upset before. At least not to his attention. Well, he was determined to get her to laugh tonight. Whatever had ruined her mood, he was going to fix it.

The band was getting hyped up, gathering around, some last minute fixes to their instruments among excited chatter. Yet, apparently, it hadn’t been only him who noticed Y/n’s mood. Once again sharing a look with Ethan, Victoria motioned her head over to their assistant. He nodded, before walking over to Y/n, taking her by the hand to get her to stand up, and pressing a kiss to her cheek. Victoria quickly followed suit, then Thomas, who had caught on. Damiano quickly gave a wink before kissing her forehead instead.

“For luck!” He shouted, as he ran on stage, welcoming the crowd. A quick look back confirmed a bashful smile on her face.

Everyone was on fire that night, even Y/n seemed to let go of her bad mood more and more. Damiano didn’t miss the way she sang along to their cover of ‘Take Me Out’, obviously getting into the show more than previous nights. Knowing all the lyrics, dancing ever so slightly… Damiano realised he really had it bad for her.

He decided to go for it during “For your love”. With a pointed look towards her, he slowly started rolling off one arm of his jacket. Then the other. A little mock burlesque show of his own, dramatically shimmying his shoulders as he got rid of the jacket completely. The crowd more than appreciated his little performance, judging by their screams. The rest of the band was eating his energy up, playing harder, going crazier. As Damiano jogged over to grab some water, he didn’t miss the opportunity to turn his back towards Y/n, shaking his arse in a bad attempt at twerking. Turning back, he could see that she was desperately trying to bite back a smile. But he wasn’t done yet.

Making sure she was still looking at him, he began playing with his microphone. Giving it a teasing lick and sending her a wink at the same time. Watching her as he let his hand rest on his chest, slowly wandering lower with a teasing touch, until it rested in his lap. He only managed to keep it up for a second, before he couldn’t hold back the laugh at her expression anymore and turned back towards the audience.

But apparently, Y/n had some trick of her own. Well, it seemed like she wasn’t even aware of them, but they worked on Damiano all the same. She was taking her hair out of the pony tail for the night and he thought the way it cascaded around her face was beautiful. He felt like a movie cliche, watching as the main character let her hair down and everything suddenly happened in slow motion. Yet, here she was, trying to shove a bobby pin back into place, and he was losing his shit. He thought it was ridiculous though. The crazier her hair went, the crazier he went about her. She swayed to the music and for a second Damiano could swear time stood still. 

I wonder if she likes her hair pulled… The thought distracted him to the point that he forgot what he was singing, quickly covering it up by animating the audience to sing it instead. He was glad to be nearing the end of the set. He’d never wish to go off stage, per se, but Y/n was once again occupying his thoughts and the way she was moving to the music now didn’t help.

Another song, another bow towards the audience, another well-practised “Danke!”, and they were off stage. Damiano briefly considered going over to Y/n, only to see Thomas basically chasing her away, threatening her with a sweaty hug. Her slightly panicked squeals proved she wasn’t a fan of the idea. He didn’t mind. He’d make sure there’d be more time to catch up with her later.

Briefly dropping into the dressing room, Damiano grabbed his cigarettes and a hoodie, before heading outside for a smoke. The backstage door led to a quieter alley than the famously busy Reeperbahn on the other end. But there were still more than a handful of people walking past, singing, dancing, shouting into the night, beer bottles in hand. It didn’t take long for everyone else to join him. Ethan headed outside first, bumming a cigarette off the singer, before Thomas and Victoria followed. They were once again involved in some sort of mock argument. Y/n stepped outside a minute later, phone in her hand, already back to work-mode and probably checking the plan for the next few days. Everyone was still on a high from the gig, chatting and giggling, but Damiano felt himself taking a step back. He loved watching his friends, loved what they did, loved that he got to do it with them. And now Y/n too, in a way. Not even a full week in and he knew that this tour wouldn’t have been the same without her. 

He was rapidly pulled out of his thoughts as a group of men came towards them, obviously way past drunk. Yelling and hollering for no reason but to be annoying and get everyone’s attention. Damiano hated those kinds of drunks. In his experience they were nothing but trouble. He had half a mind to retreat back inside before they reached the group, but even in their inebriated stupor; they were quicker than expected. 

“Now, who are these beautiful girls?” One of them slurred, stepping forward.

“Yeah! Bet you give a man a good time,” another one laughed loudly. “And a cheap one too.”

One of them was moving closer now, almost touching Victoria - but without even a moment to process what was happening, Y/n acted. Damiano watched, fascinated, as she grabbed the man’s extended hand, twisting it around his back and shoulder checking him into the brick wall of the alley. No second thought, no hesitation. Shouldn’t the men have been the one to react and take care of their girls? Well, it didn’t seem like Y/n was one to wait to be saved.

In a tone that he had never heard before - and neither had the rest of the band judging by their reactions - Y/n spoke, “You couldn’t afford me, mate. Or my friends. So I’d take your piss drunk self elsewhere, m’kay?”

The men were gone faster than lightning, stumbling to find their footing as they ran, only starting to comment on how she was a “fat fucking bitch” and how they “wouldn’t have wanted her anyway” when they were far enough away. Y/n wordlessly rejoined the group.

Damiano found himself releasing a breath. The whole scene had been over so quickly, he barely registered it. He wasn’t the only one either, he realised. As the other three kept staring at her, amazed and maybe slightly intimidated, while Y/n didn’t even react.

However, Damiano wasn’t just mesmerised by her behaviour. He was thrilled by her - in more ways than one. The way she had handled herself was downright hot. She was fierce, self-confident, and strong. He couldn’t keep himself from contemplating whether this was a side she would let out in the bedroom as well. Was she the type to take control? Order him around? Push him to a wall like she’d done that guy, only with very different intentions? He would be 100% okay with taking orders from her, he decided.

Y/n finally looked up from her phone, apparently feeling everyone’s stares on her.

“...What. I told you I worked security before.” She looked at Victoria, quietly asking her if she was alright. She simply nodded. Damiano still couldn’t keep his eyes off of their assistant. Damn, that woman had more to herself than she let on.

***

Damiano was still thinking about it an hour later. After everyone had gathered their stuff and gotten back to the hotel and split up into their rooms. After he’d gotten in the shower. His mind was still running wild. He quickly turned the water to cold, letting out a hiss at the change in temperature, but he knew he didn’t have the time or the privacy to do anything about his thoughts. Neither would he be knocking on Y/n’s door, desperate for some kind of attention.

Not tonight.