#but GLINDA comes in and she's like oh this fucking bitch again

[cometblaster2070]

i made a post previously talking about madame morrible and her genuine on sight hatred for glinda and hatred for glinda and elphaba getting together and someone said something along the lines of it being madame morrible's personal homophobe origin story so now I choose to believe she started oz's version of straight pride out of spite because she just fucking hates glinda so much.

[neillien]

Untitled | story section from no place like Home. February 2019 …

So   … I dreamed I met Judy Garland [she’d aged] but then she always looked haggard to me - older people generally do, don't they? Especially when you're a boy thinking about age gaps, looking at grown-ups! Startled by their misery, scared of it. Let's just say today, Judy looked her worse and then bad some. How we met is by pure coincidence in the suburbs of the Emerald City, there was no technicolour, only squalor, no signifier of any importance other than Judy and the shambles of Oz fallen into dereliction.. The whole place looked pretty disgusting. Smelt rancid. The yellow brick road tarred-over. The little dog Toto had been dead years. I stood with Judy at the cairn terrier’s graveside. Its Tin man's axe crudely substituted for a gravestone, it's then when I realise we're in the apple orchard which wasn’t as it had once been. Not as it is presented in the film. A bypass cut through most the land. Cars and trucks roar by trailing flumes of polluted air. A few remaining trees are blighted, coppiced, half gone. Horrible, prescient tree-voices lay hold of my weakening attention. They sound like ghosts in my head, I try to ignore them; get immersed in my scene with Judy, try not to be scared. We, my newest buddy Judy and me, we're mourning the immemorial Toto. But easily distracted, I notice it might rain. Bad air permeates and a miasma risen from the soil, which drew my attention away. My junkie Judy was in thrall to a song. Judy sung of exploitative men; it dragged on a lot. I grew impatient. Wanted to go. I was like; ‘yes, yes, …show me something good: show me off. I might wake up any minute,’ but Judy carried on crooning, lost to her own voice. I felt lour cries, thrumming with murderous intentions …At some point during the singing I've involuntarily grabbed the Tin man's axe from the graveside, realising this only when beginning to scrape salient clumps of hard plastic from my sleeve. I spit red shards of plastic that hurt my throat, make me cough, followed by tiny brass cogs which taste rhythmical, if taste were to rhyme it would taste sweet like I have a sonnet regurgitating. I think I was throwing up my own timepiece heart that also stopped long ago. Now nestled closely, Judy and me lovingly wept for Toto.  When the crying dried. I turned to Judy and ask courageously, ever so nicely, ‘May I try the Ruby-Slippers on, you know, just for size, they're so iconic?’ BAM! A flash technicolour moment. Judy comes back as her younger self … moreover as the sweet, self-effaced, polite Dorothy dressed in her spotless gingham dress… Judy had been wearing a creased silk, off the shoulder evening dress and pearls: ‘Oh yes! Says Judy/Dorothy all southernly, blustery, [that kid had the dynamics of a tornado in her throat]  '…why of course, of course.’ So, we slip off our shoes and swap them over. Laughing as Judy squeezes into my Nike trainers.  The Ruby-Slippers are soon on my feet, a size too big, …but divine , I CANNOT BELIEVE IT. I cry ‘Oh Dorothy … Don’t please…! [I think Judy is about to cry, again] Please don’t believe in friendship, luck. Don't believe in love either. Honestly, don’t give a fuck. [Judy looks rattled, sad as fuck] Believe me there isn't anyone who cares. I don't - most of all. Think for a second… ['ve really warmed to my monologue] think how the good witch Glinda warned you… ‘ Keep the power of the slippers to yourself…’ she cautioned you Dorothy. NO Judy, don’t look at me like that, don't give me that look of consternation. The Ruby-Slippers are all I ever wanted.  And, now they're on my feet.

…Fuck-off.’

Judy’s face, dropped-dead. I pushed old Judy faghag from my floorspace   … I swirl to the upbeat tempo of Lizzo's latest hit, clicked my heels, sashay through the throng of dancing men: NEWSFLASH … The young and unaccompanied take precedence on the dancefloor, bitch.  

[fanatic-author]

Murder Is Not On The Agenda

Rating: T (swearing) Warnings: swearing Category: Gen Fandom: Boku No Hero Academia Relationships: Dabi & Shigaraki & Toga Language: English Words: 2,162 Chapters: 1/1

Summary: Three villains go on an ice cream run in the middle of the night and absolutely nothing goes wrong. Yeah, right.

Read it here on AO3!

“Tomura, I think I’m dying.” Toga moaned where she lay spread out on the couch.  

“Shut the fuck up.” he replied, not even bothering to look at her. He had the electric fan, and everyone else could suck it.

“Tomura.” Dabi whined from his spot on the floor.

“What.”

“I think I’m dying.”  

“Sucks.”

The fact of the matter was, it was nearly 30 degrees and almost 11 o clock at night, which meant it was  hot  with no sign of cooling off anytime soon. And with 7 people sharing a space, it was getting unbearable.

“Shiggy, give me the fan. Kurogiri tell Shiggy it’s my turn with the fan!”

“Eat my ass, bitch.”

Compress was fanning himself with his mask; trench coat, top hat, and even balaclava removed in the intense heat. Spinner was no better, elaborate stain costume stashed somewhere not on his body in favor of as little clothing as possible. When questioned about why a  reptile  which was typically cold blooded had to  cool off , they were met with double fingers and a grumbled “I’m human underneath the scales.”  

The one probably faring the worst of all of them was Twice. He refused to take off his mask, and as such was gently being prodded by Kurogiri to periodically suck on ice cubes. The heat didn’t seem to have much an effect on the warper. Perks of being a living cloud, one supposed.  

“Shiggy do somethiiiiiiiiing.” Toga continued whining, one hand fanning herself and the other laying listlessly off the couch.  

“Do something? You want me to do something!? I don’t control the weather Toga! I don’t control the thermostat, or the pressure systems, or the tilt of the earth this time of the year!” he shouted.

“But you can control the tilt the rest of the year?” Dabi quipped, still lying vulnerable on the floor.  

This vulnerability was immediately exploited by Tomura who launched himself across the room to body slam Dabi, a surprised and breathless “OOF” leaving him. The two of them began rolling around the floor, slapping and pinching the other, but they quickly fell apart in the overwhelming heat.  

“I think I would give my left nut for that Todoroki kid’s ice quirk right about now.” Spinner said from his spot near the window, raising many questions regarding reptiles and nuts no one wanted to ask.  

Dabi twitched but it was Toga who said “Man, I bet he can make ice cream whenever he wants!”  

“That sounds like a hassle.” replied Spinner.

“What?”

“Making ice cream. Way easier to go buy some.”  

“How?”  

Dabi, Tomura, and Spinner all simultaneously replied “Money can be exchanged for goods and services.” Compress pinched his nose. Twice groaned in overheating agony.  

“Maybe you should participate in our stimulating economy” Kurogiri said “and fetch the rest of us some ice cream.”

“You don’t even feel the heat.” retorted Tomura, but Toga and Dabi had already gotten to their feet, and compress was rifling through his wallet for what bills he had on hand.  

“Get me an ice cream, none of that popsicle crap.” He said, giving Tomura the cash.  

“Screw you.”

In the end it was only Tomura, Dabi, and Toga going because Twice was still too hot, Spinner argued he’d attract too much attention, and Compress was paying. Kurogiri made them walk because he was an ass, according to Tomura.  

“We would attract so much attention if we warped to the 7-11 in the middle of the night.” Dabi pointed out “Like, they would call All Might out of retirement just to beat our ass.”  

“I’d take him.” Tomura deadpanned.  

“If you saw All Might’s emaciated form, you’d piss your pants running.”  

It had been like this for the last fifteen minutes they’d spent walking in the muggy heat to nearest 24-hour convenience store, which when you were hiding from any and all levels of law enforcement, was not anywhere near where they lived. Whenever the conversation seemed to slow down, Toga interjected with just enough barb to get the argument rolling again.  

“Fuck, marry, kill: All Might, Endeavor, Hawks”  

“Kill all 3.” Tomura replied.  

Toga stuck out her tongue at him “You’re no fun. Dabi?”

“Kill Endeavor, fuck Hawks, marry All Might. He’d treat me right.”  

Toga swooned “Oh he would, wouldn’t he? Always coughing up blood...”  

Tomura murmured “freak” under his breath, with only a teaspoon of malice. The three of them entered 7-11, identities hidden from the cameras (and prone to panicking cashiers) under face masks.

“Cuz this isn’t suspicious as all hell” Dabi muttered under his breath “Spinner should have had to come.”  

The argument had been made that either spinner should have to come or Dabi should be allowed to stay, but Kurogiri insisted on adult supervision for the other 2, no matter Tomura was probably the oldest of the three of them, but he didn’t count because he was Tomura. Dabi had that kind of face that one would assume is older than it actually was, probably because of the horrific scar tissue.  

The three of them gathered around the cooler, bills in hand, staring down the various cool treats.  

“This is all gonna be melted by the time we get back anyway.” Toga pointed out.  

Tomura said “Well the rest of them should have thought of that before giving us their money. Just grab whatever you want.” He proceeded to do so, plucking ice cream cones and popsicles from their icy shelves. Dabi wandered over to the slushy machine.  

Toga grabbed a misshapen SpongeBob popsicle for herself, Tomura despite knowing it was a waste had grabbed three ice creams and one popsicle (for compress), Dabi was currently filling an extra-large slushy. None of the 3 paid particularly close attention to the overhead door bell jingling.  

They  did  however, begin paying attention at the obnoxious voices that had made their way inside.  

“Alright! Uraraka you are on candy duty, Kirishima! Retrieve the slushies! Midoriya, here is the ice cream list, and I shall get chips! Does everyone else have their lists? Reconvene here once you have gotten everything, or close alternatives if the first option is not available!”  

There were various sounds of assent and agreement, which were largely missed by the two villains, too busy shitting their pants.  

“What? How?” Toga whispered, already dropped to a crouch behind the cooler.  

“I don’t know! Shut up!” Tomura hissed back, crouched behind Toga., the various treats shoved in his pockets. He had no qualms using her as a meat shield if spotted.

“Where’s Dabi?”

“He went to the slushy machine.”  

They both peered around the cooler to look where Dabi had gone. Where’d he’d standing instead sat a lone, spilt, extra-large slushy.  

“Oh my god they killed Dabi.” Toga whispered.  

Tomura nodded in agreement “Well, let’s cut our losses and get out of here.”  

“Man, fuck you guys.”  

Both Tomura and Toga shrieked as Dabi came up behind them, and then immediately shushed the other. Unfortunately for the three villains hiding behind an ice cream cooler in a 7-11 in the middle of the night, stealth was not their forte. Quite frankly, not much was.  

A nearby voice, rapidly getting louder, asked “Did you guys hear that?”  

Neither of the three villains waited for their nemesis, one Midoriya Izuku aka the second coming of All Might himself to find them. Toga dashed to hide behind the shelves of snacks in the center of the store. Tomura and Dabi weighed their options, but the prospect of getting blown through a wall at Mach 3 had them quickly following.  

Toga stood crouched in the beef jerky aisle, with the sound of The Uglier Sonic only one aisle over.

“We. Need. To. Get. Out. Of. Here.” Tomura bit, out as quietly as possible.  

“I vote we use Toga as bait.”  

“ Hey!”  

Tomura shushed them both, all three of them listening to see if their conversation had attracted any unwanted attention.  

“... and 3 bags of sour cream and onion, one of ketchup, and one of... Excuse me, Midoriya? Do you happen to know of the flavor “Chungus?” Kaminari requested a big bag of... why are you laughing?”  

Dabi looked like he was going to have a stroke trying to contain his laughter.  

“I love those stupid kids.” he said.  

“Yeah, that’s why we’re trying to kill them.” Toga agreed.  

Dabi looked to Tomura “So what’s the plan, boss? Light, and run?”  

He shook his head “No, no way. I’m not dealing with these snot-nosed brats today. I just want to go home, and bitch about the heat some more. Murder was not, and is still not, on the agenda.”  

Dabi carefully extinguished the blue flame in his hand “Ok, but we still need a way out.”  

“Alright, boy wonder is at the ice cream cooler, Dwayne Johnson is at the slushy machine, Glinda is grabbing candy 3 aisles over, and we’re less than 2 feet from a speeding bullet. Anything in our way between us and the door?”  

“No.” Dabi answered, right as Toga said “Yes.”  

“What?”  

Wordlessly she pointed, and there standing just outside the door was the worst one yet. Their homeroom teacher. Of course the kids couldn’t just go anywhere they liked off campus in the middle of the night, they had to be accompanied. He was probably making sure no one got in the store to hurt them.  

“If this was an assassination attempt, we’d be killing it right now.” Dabi said.  

Toga said “Ha. Pun.”  

Tomura wanted to pull his hair out “We’re never this successful when we’re actually trying, what gives?”  

The three of them put their heads together.  

“Think they’ll give me a nicer cell if I sell you two out?” Dabi had a hand on his chin in contemplation.

Tomura hit him.  

“I think stabbing is a viable solution.”

“I think one or more heroes is going to be scraping you off their knuckles if you try.”

“What if we got you to a wall? Make us a hole, then make a run for it?”  

Tomura nodded “I could do it.”  

The three of them began creeping towards the far end of the aisle, closest to an outer wall, when a large yelp, and a crashing sound made the three of them jump. Toga actually startled so hard she hit the shelf behind her, making a frankly impressive amount of noise considering. Thankfully it was drowned out by the sounds of alarm coming from the other occupants of the store.  

“Ow...”  

“Kirishima! are you alright?”  

“Yeah, I slipped in some...”  

“I’m coming!”  

Then there was the familiar sound of engines revving, and then a  very  impressive crashing sound, followed by two pained cries this time.  

“Dude, why?” one groaned.  

“I apologize, I did not see the slushy on the ground.” The other moaned.  

The front door bell chimed rather aggressively as the front door slammed open, a very menacing aura entering that had each person in that store reconsidering every decision that brought them there in that moment.  

“What. Is. Going. On. Here?” A gruff voice asked, belonging none other than to one pissed off Eraserhead, a voice every villain in the league was familiar with by this point. It usually precluded getting your ass kicked.

All the students gathered around their fallen friends and began clamoring to explain themselves at once, voices shouting and pointing out facts and telling wildly outlandish tales of sabotage slushies on the ground. The volume of the group rose and rose as each member tried to talk over the other.  

“Well that was easy. See ya, suckers.” Dabi said, dashing from his point of cover and out the door.  

Toga quickly followed, and Tomura hesitated but as the group remained quite thoroughly distracted, he soon followed as well. No one inside noticed the three villains taking off in to the night.  

“Holy shit!” Toga laughed outrageously, now several blocks from the convenience store, and lavishing in her nearly lost freedom. She jumped off the sidewalk, running around with her arms spread in malicious joy.  

“Just so you guys know, I wouldn’t have actually sold you out for a better cell. Just so we’re clear.”  

“Shut up while you’re ahead, Dabi”

Toga howled in joy “and I didn’t even have to pay for my ice cream!” She pulled out her SpongeBob popsicle, ripping the wrapper off to expose the misshapen face that was supposedly a cartoon character. She plopped it in her mouth with a satisfied hum.  

“Oh my god.” Tomura stuck his own hands in his pockets, pulling out the treats he’d shoved in there when this all began.  

“Oh, hell yeah!” Dabi plucked one of the packaged ice cream cones from his hand. Tomura didn’t even fight him for it, ripping open his own ice cream treat and digging in.  

He couldn’t help chuckling “Those heroes helped us rob a convenience store.”  

Dabi nodded “This is the best day of my life.”  

[comebackbehere23]

For @bisexualblossoms

“I told you that it wasn’t a good idea, that he’s grieving, but he told me that he wants to go on a date. He wants it to be real.” Kevin whispers with wide, excited eyes. “What do I do?”

“Well, there’s no simple answer…”

Cheryl pretty much blacks out as Veronica begins to talk. It’s Saturday afternoon and for some strange reason, her girlfriend isn’t with her. She tries to remember why they thought spending the day apart was a good idea, something about the heart growing fonder with distance. Honestly? Cheryl is kicking herself for making that ridiculous statement; no matter where Toni is, her heart is pretty damn fond of the woman who owns it.

“Cheryl, what do you think?” Veronica asks.

Cheryl blinks herself back to reality, “I agree with everything you said.”

“You weren’t even listening.” Veronica points out with a playful roll of her eyes. “How do you know I didn’t just say that I was going to sell your girlfriend back to the Land of Oz?”

“What are you trying to imply?” Cheryl demands.

“She’s obviously a munchkin who somehow escaped the clutches of Glinda.” Veronica shrugs. “I could fit her in my pocket.”

“She isn’t going anywhere.” Cheryl declares. “And if you tried to sell her back then I’d obviously just buy Oz. Nobody gets to own my girlfriend.”

Kevin smiles adoringly, “You love her so much.”

“I do.” Cheryl nods. “And that is why I’m cutting this lovely afternoon short. I miss her and I would very much like to see her.”

“Oh, we don’t mind hanging out with her.” Kevin assures her as he turns his attention to his phone. “I have been dying to ask where she got those studded boots from.”

Veronica smirks as Cheryl’s eyes narrow, “I don’t think she’s up for sharing Toni today, Kev. We’re being kicked out.”

“At least someone gets it.” Cheryl hums. “I enjoyed our time together, but I really just want Toni to come over and sleep with me.”

Kevin gags, “Gross.”

“I’m serious.” Cheryl grins as she grabs her phone from the bedside table. “Now, you know your way out. I’ll see you Monday. Toodles, loves.”

“I can’t believe she’s kicking us out just so she can bone Toni.” Kevin pouts. “I’ll remember this, Cheryl. I am hurt.”

“Come on, Kevin,” Veronica giggles as she pushes him towards the door. “I’ll buy you a milkshake for all your pain.”

“At least you love me.” Kevin sniffles.

Cheryl rolls her eyes as they disappear, “Drama queen. And that’s coming from me.”

-

“Ah, fuck you!”

“Watch it, Topaz. You almost blew me up.”

“Fangs won’t stop…fuck you, you dick. We’re on the same team!” Toni growls as she gives Sweet Pea a hard nudge.

“Man, you guys suck.” Fangs chuckles with an amused shake of his head. “I thought if I let you guys team up that it’d be more of a challenge, but you still can’t beat me.”

“Fuck off.” Sweet Pea huffs.

“Gah! Sweets, what the hell? You just blew up my fucking car.” Toni whines. “I never want to be on a team wit you again, you fucking hamburger. How the fuck do you just blow my shit up like that?”

Sweet Pea bursts into laughter, “You call me and hamburger and then follow it with more cursing? You’re too cute, Tiny.”

“I am not cute.” Toni flushes. “I’m a badass.”

“I highly doubt your Northsider would call you a badass. I’ve seen you with your precious princess, you are a complete dork.” Fangs smirks as he swerves into Sweet Pea’s character. “You’ve lost your B card, dude.”

“At least I’ve got a girlfriend, a lot more than I can say for the two of you single bozos.” Toni points out as she mashes her buttons. “And my girl knows I’m a total badass.”

The sound of a ping causes Toni to pause and she immediately drops her controller as she fumbles for her phone. Beside her, Sweet Pea watches with eyes that shine with mirth while Fangs struggles to hold back a loud laugh. It’s near impossible to stay silent as they watch Toni finally dig her phone from her jacket pocket only to drop it and lunge eagerly for it. It’s hard for them to adjust to this side of Toni, the side that drops everything just to answer a text from her girlfriend (a girlfriend who has her own private text tone, mind you).

My Baby: Come over. I want to sleep with you.

“Gag.” Sweet Pea scoffs.

Toni flashes him a glare, “Watch it.”

“What a formal way to ask for a booty call.” Fangs snorts. “Your girl talks like she was raised by Shakespeare. Although, it’s a lot better than some ass texting you some shit like come over so we can fuck.”

“Good point.” Sweet Pea nods as he turns his attention back to their game. “Gotta say, Blossom is a definite improvement since your last one. What was his name? Jacob? Jackson?”

“Greyson. His name was Greyson.” Toni mumbles as she stands to grab her stuff. “And he was an ass, but you two treated him like trash.”

“We know a garbage can when we see one.” Fangs shrugs. “Where are we going? We still have ten minutes left in the game.”

“Sorry, boys,” Toni sighs. “Babe needs me.”

Sweet scrunches his nose, “Yuck. Have fun with your booty call. Call us when you’re done and we can meet up for some pool at the Wyrm.”

“Not a booty call!” Toni calls over her shoulder.

“Sure.” Fangs nods.

“Of course it’s not.” Sweet Pea laughs.

“Bye, bitches!”

“She’s totally going to get laid.” Fangs murmurs as he focuses his attention on the game while Toni slips from the trailer.

Sweet Pea gives a lopsided grin, “Oh, most definitely.”

-

Cheryl smiles as she feels the bed dip before a warm hand slides up her bare calf. Immediately, her eyes close as lips dance along her shoulder. As soon as Toni is hovering over her, Cheryl rolls onto her back and fists leather hard enough to pull Toni down onto her. Just like that, everything melts away as Cheryl presses her lips to Toni until her lungs burn from neglect. With one last quick peck, Cheryl huffs as she pushes at the leather on Toni’s shoulder while settling back into her pillow.

“Miss me?” Toni smirks.

Cheryl peeks an eye open to watch as her girlfriend sheds her jacket, “Of course I did, that goes without saying. I don’t like having days away from you.”

“Why did we think that was a good idea again?” Toni frowns.

“I don’t know, but it’s never happening again.” Cheryl declares. “Now, take off your shoes and come hold me. I wanna nap.”

“The boys saw your text, they’re convinced this was a booty call.” Toni snorts.

“Kevin and Veronica assumed the same thing. If only they knew that it just meant that I wanted cuddles and a nap.” Cheryl grins. “Hurry up with those shoes, Topaz.”

“Gimme a second, these jeans are not napping material.” Toni grumbles as she kicks her jeans aside. “Fuck. That is so much better.”

Cheryl hums happily as Toni crawls in behind her and drops an arm around her waist, “Thank you for coming over, TT.”

“Always, babe.” Toni whispers. “I love you.”

“I love you more.” Cheryl yawns.

“Go to sleep, baby.” Toni orders as she tightens her arm around Cheryl’s waist. “After our nap, we can totally turn this into a booty call.”

Cheryl giggles in delight, “Whatever you want.”

With that, they both drift off.

[artificialqueens]

I Remember You Differently (Trixya) - Chapter 3 - goth

One more high school lesbian AU for the good people of this blog. It’s the end of senior year, prom season, and Trixie thought she was finally over her crush on Katya from freshman year drama class. She was wrong. Kim is over it before it even starts.

A/N: Lesbian drama at the local P.F. Chang’s. More mocking of Trixie by her friends. Trixie is once more the victim of Katya unexpectedly appearing. Again, not slow burn, but slow moving chapters. Everyone loves a big payoff.

“Tracy and Ketchup, sitting in a tree.”

No matter the setting, Trixie can’t escape being the subject of discussion. First Fame’s house, now dinner at the girls’s favorite Chinese restaurant. Any other day, she’d love being the center of attention. She ignores William’s sing-song, the accompanying giggles from Trannika, and lets her imagination run wild.

Everyone being in awe of how beautiful she is. Or gushing about her long blonde hair, how it always smells like peaches and strawberries. How it’s soft like silk. Or waxing poetic about her singing. Anything, really. She’s not picky.

Trixie doesn’t get to live that fantasy. No, everyone prefers talking about her love life. The lack there-of. She sinks her cheek into her palm, eyeing William with distaste. “Oh, this isn’t over? You’re not done?”

“S-c-i-s-o-r-i-n-g.”

Trannika swallows a wonton before speaking. “You misspelled scissoring, you dumb bitch.”

“Fuck,” William’s honking laugh serves as punctuation. “Well. I think you two are going to be cute together.”

A wave of nervousness rolls through Trixie. Cute together. They were cute together freshman year. Past tense. She considers not being as annoyed with the girls. Her friends providing constant reminders of Katya’s reemergence in her life is the reason why she’s not convinced things with Katya are all past tense.

Going to be. She has a future with Katya now. Immediately that rings with far too much finality, and Trixie blocks any daydream out before it can begin.

Yeah, if it weren’t for her friends, Trixie would block everything out completely. Forget it all until Katya’s on her doorstep with a corsage. Another daydream she has to repress.

Trixie sips on her water until she’s sucking on air. “Thanks. It’s just a prom date, we’re not together-together.”

Trannika offers sage wisdom in between bites. “Get on that fast.”

William nods, pointing aggressively at Trixie with her chopstick. “She means don’t take any fucking longer.”

“William, what are you—“ William silences Trixie with the chopstick, pressing it against Trixie’s bubblegum pink lips.

“Ketchup mixes with a lot of mustard.”

Trixie swats her away. She’d like to swat the entirety of William away. At least half of Trannika, as well. Maybe herself, while she’s at it. “Please stop.”

William points at her again. “I’m not joking! That goth bitch fucked all the lesbians on the softball team.”

Trannika yelps, and talks around a wonton in her cheek. “No way! The whole softball team?”

“Yes!” William sounds exasperated. Her usually lidded eyes widen, peering deep into Trixie’s. “Your girlfriend is like, the talk of the school. Do you know how hard it was? Not being able to say anything?”

Trixie rolls her eyes and starts chewing on a veggie egg roll.

William smacks the table between her words, for emphasis. “For four years? Because you’re so fucking oblivious?” William crosses her arms. “Or because you’re only at school for an hour, or whatever.”

Somehow, she makes this all about her. Not surprising. William relaxes, worrying Trixie for whatever she’s about to say. William smirking like she is… Never a good sign.

“I hear it’s big.”

Trixie chokes on her egg roll. Trannika claps her back three times before the coughing stops.

William waits, patient, until Trixie’s done sipping the glass of water Trannika handed her. “When Katya whips it out on prom night… If you don’t tell me exact length and girth, I’ll kill you.”

“I hate you. Stop talking.”

“I’ll strangle your pink juicy neck.” William encircles Trixie’s neck with her hands, swaying back and forth, tossing both of them around. Trixie laugh-screeches. Trannika aids and abets William, attempting to silence Trixie with a napkin over her mouth.

Kim’s shaking her head as she approaches their booth with her order. “Don’t kill Trixie before she finally goes on a date with Miss Queer of Freshman Year.”

William untangles herself from Trixie to clear space for Kim’s meal.

“I’ll never live this down.” Trixie speaks, monotonous, moving a spoon around her plate.

“You won’t.” Kim and William respond at the same time.

“Whoa, ominous.”

The girls all look up to see Courtney, William’s girlfriend, standing by their booth. She’s sipping on a soda. Ominous, says the girl whose tiny body appeared from nowhere, like fucking Glinda in the bubble.

Then again, William is one loud bitch. She could speak over the civil defense siren. Trixie glances between her and Courtney. “Oh naur.”

“Tracy, don’t be— Hey, is there a term for—“

Kim throws a fortune cookie wrapper at William’s face. “Just stop.”

William curses and gives Kim the finger. Courtney fidgets in place beside Trixie, who pretends she doesn’t notice. William does, and reaches over to flick Trixie’s arm. “Make room for my girlfriend.”

Trixie loves Courtney, but to be honest, she’s too fucking lazy right now to get up. Also, emotionally and physically exhausted. She just ate five egg rolls. She’s not moving her big ass one inch. “Is there room?”

William frowns. “No, because your big ass is taking up all the space.”

So. The cliché is true. Best friends do think alike. Unfortunate, to find out in this manner.

Trixie suddenly gains the motivation to get up. She throws her spoon down in defeat and passive aggressiveness. “Well, excuse the fuck out of me.” She scoffs when Courtney politely maneuvers around Trixie. William nuzzles her nose against Courtney’s cheek.

“Why am I friends with any of you dykes?” Trixie never means it. But she does ask that question, in that exact way, a lot. Mostly to herself.

Freshman year, she met Kim, Trannika, Shea, and Pearl. Through those girls, she met the rest of the gang. William, Courtney, Alyssa, Fame, Violet… Too many to name. As a sophomore, she thought she was so cool to have so many cool friends.

Now they all just bicker like old women, drink a lot, and probably do too many drugs. She loves them all, and life’s fun, but it’s going to get old one day.

Trixie waves half-hearted to Kim, who blows her a kiss, and Trixie stands in place before spotting Shea and Pearl.

P.F. Chang’s is one of few interesting places nearby that is also affordable for high school students. This fact is irrelevant to Fame. She could probably buy the damn franchise. Speaking of Fame, Trixie sees her and Violet sitting with Shea and Pearl, or rather, just with Pearl. Shea’s long legs stretch over her side of the plush booth seating.

Trixie walks the short distance across the hardwood floors to their table.

“Hey bitch.”

“Hey Shea. Girls.”

Fame gasps, pats the scarce space next to her, and scoots over for Trixie to sit there. It pushes her even closer against Pearl, who in turn pushes closer against Violet. None of them seem to mind. “Trixie, you look gorgeous.”

Trixie fluffs her hair. “Thanks Fame. I put on a wispy lash today.”

Fame laughs, looks to Shea for the go-ahead, Shea shrugs, and Fame wiggles closer. She speaks in a whisper. “Tell us about the girl.”

Trixie sighs, rapping her knuckles against the wood table. “You all know seem to more than I do.”

Pearl nods her assent. “I can tell you Katya’s favorite color.”

Trixie assumes she means to say black. Surely it is these days, but in freshman year Katya wore the same emerald green shawl everyday for two weeks. ‘It was my baba’s,’ Katya had said, bumping her shoulder. That spot of flesh was on fire for the rest of the day.

When Trixie expressed her sadness over Katya’s grandma passing, Katya howled for a solid five seconds. ‘She’s alive, I just stole it from her.’

Trixie wonders if she still wears that shawl, in the privacy of her room, where no one can see past her goth fantasy. She wonders if Katya still listens to the Russian pop songs she let Trixie hear through one earbud when they sat hip-to-hip backstage during rehearsals. She wonders if Katya’s hips are still bony.

She’s never been in Katya’s room. Maybe she will, one day.

“Hot pink. Obviously.” Violet finally speaks, looking up from her plate. She gestures with her chopstick, pointing to the booths Trixie moved past. “You also walked right by her.”

“What?” How many times is Trixie going to say that fucking word?

Pearl hums and adjusts the arms draped around Violet’s and Fame’s shoulders. “She and her very interesting gal pals frequent this place a lot.”

Trixie was thinking she was the nutcase when it comes to Katya. “Is everyone stalking her?”

“Katya’s kind of the gay icon of our school,”  Shea interjects, correcting Trixie. “We can’t help being fascinated by her antics.”

All the girls mutter in agreement and Pearl continues. “We frequent this place a lot, too. Before we knew she did.” She tries to hold in a giggle. She fails. “Now we just come here more often.”

Fame’s face evolves from bemusement to disbelief. “How did you not know any this, Trixie?”

Violet supplies an answer before Trixie can respond. “She has a late-in and early-out. She’s not even at school for half a day.” Violet pauses, and smiles, eyeing Trixie up and down. “Trixie probably spends the rest of it masturbating to Dolly Parton in her room.”

“Leave Dolly out of that.” Trixie shakes her head. It takes all her self-control not to look where Violet gestured. “I walked right past her… Like, in what specific direction is she?”

Fame covers her mouth with her hand, speaking through a mouthful of rice. “When you turn around, she’s in the booth on your right.” She raises in her seat and cranes her neck forward, peering closer.

“The littlest one with her is smoking.”

“Should I go— Should I go talk to her?”

“Yes!” A chorus of shouts erupt. Trixie hunches over in her seat, nose against the table, and covers her head with her hands.

“Hey, guys? Could you, uh, be louder? Thanks.”

Trixie’s the only one with her head down. Violet watches in silent amusement, popping rice balls  off Fame’s plate into her mouth. Pearl rolls her eyes. “We could’ve brought Alyssa.”

“Alyssa’s gonna get us kicked out of the restaurant on prom night.” Shea laughs after her own prediction. She’s not wrong. “I’ll wager ten dollars.”

Pearl snorts. “Fifteen dollars says she talks the staff out of it.”

Shea counters. “Twenty says Kim Chi stabs her with a spoon regardless.”

Pearl extends her hand to Shea who takes it. “Shake on it, bitch.”

Trixie straightens up, and sets her hands on-top the gambling pair’s, lowering them all to the table. “Cool. Now that you settled that, let’s get back to me.”

Shea turns in her seat to face Trixie head-on. She easily frees herself from Trixie’s lackluster grip. Shea’s in serious, ’Bitch I’ll cut you’ mode.

Her voice gains a matching edge. “Trixie, it’s not fucking rocket science. Walk over and say, ‘Hey, Katya. I’m sitting with my friends over there. I know you’re sitting with your own, but they really want to meet you.’”

“‘Let’s fuck in the women’s bathroom.’” Pearl adds on.

“I’m just gonna over there before what Pearl said fully registers.”

…….

Trixie repeats Shea’s advice in her head like a mantra with every step towards Katya’s booth. She avoids Pearl’s advice like the plague. Nothing is sexy about the plague. Nothing is sexy about taking Katya into the bathroom at fucking P.F. Chang’s and rubbing against her hard-on on-top the bathroom counter.

Nothing sexy about that at all. The crow masks the doctors wore during the plague were cool though.

She lost where she was supposed to be going with this.

Katya must be able to hear Trixie’s thudding heartbeat, because she looks up from her fortune cookie before Trixie is at the table. Katya beams, and gives her a small wave.

It’s not rocket science.

Trixie’s brain short-circuits. All she can utter once she’s beside the table is, “Hi.” Fuck.

Katya’s lips purse, like she’s holding in a laugh. Trixie can’t decide if that’s a good thing or a bad thing. Katya looks adorable doing it. “Hi.” Katya says back.

Is she mocking her or flirting with her? Both? Neither? It’s just a fucking two-letter greeting. Trixie’s already overwhelmed.

Katya stares up at her, a smile spreading slowly. She tilts her head to the side, back towards the others at her booth. A sort-of gesture. Again, she’s so adorable — a sharp contrast against the sharpness of her jaw. The angular cut of her face is painfully visible in the harsh restaurant lighting.

Trixie’s hands wring behind her back.

“This is Trixie.” Katya smiles even wider around the two syllables of her name. Trixie is breathless. “The girl I was telling you guys about.” Katya looks up at her through her lashes. Trixie’s stomach flips. “She’s taking me to prom.”

One of Katya’s friends scoots forward in their seat. Their squinting eyes blatantly examine Trixie. and they speak with a cadence like Meryl Streep. “You’ve made our girl a conformist.” Despite the choice of words, it’s said with a warmth Trixie wasn’t expecting. Protectiveness. Trixie feels like she’s intruding.

She feels five years old. She feels uncool.

“Trixie, they who spoketh is Jinkx.” Katya’s head turns away, looking back over her shoulder, as she jabs her finger in the respective spaces of her friends. “Alaska, Ginger, Laganja, Tammie.”

Everyone appears college age, save the person yet to be named. They look like they could be in a class with Farrah. Oh, Jesus Christ. For their sake, Trixie hopes not. “Finally, we have Adore. They’re the baby.”

Jinkx speaks up again. “Katya’s the first of us to go to a promenade.”

Promenade. Trixie snorts. Jinkx does humming-tutting laugh. It’s more appropriate for a jazz age singer. Not a college student. Trixie kind-of loves it.

Of course these people would be Katya’s friends.

Something’s familiar about them. Maybe they were the seniors picking Katya up from rehearsals and school plays. The older kids who honked the car horn ten times before Katya heard them. She was always entertaining Trixie, reenacting humorous scenes from that night’s performance.

Trixie never interrupted her to mention the car horns.

Jealousy colored Trixie pink, as she would watch Katya run away and hop into the various cars belonging to her friends. Trixie wasn’t only envious of hanging out with seniors as a freshman, but of the seniors hanging out with Katya. She craved being with Katya so badly those days.

Everytime the end of class bell rang, everytime the curtain fell, was like a bullet in her back.

Trixie’s mind moves forward to present day, forcing the old pains out. She ruminates on what her own friends said about Katya. Talk of the school. Katya doesn’t even know. She doesn’t even care. She never has. It fills Trixie with pride.

She can hardly express that, though. Trixie runs a hand through her hair. “Cool.”

Jinkx leans back and nods at Alaska. “She’s a talker.”

Alaska does a once-over of Trixie. “She’s nervous.” Alaska counters, playing with her straw. She laughs, and is joined in by the rest of Katya’s friends.

Trixie can take the heat, but in the recess of her thoughts, she no longer wishes to be alive.

Katya clears her throat harshly. Her friends go silent.

Trixie’s nerves morph into confusion, looking on in stunned silence. Katya glowers at her friends while collecting her things. She shoves her phone into her jeans and folds a fortune slip into her jacket pocket. The action, precise and yet pissed off, would have made Trixie giggle, if Katya’s jaw wasn’t clenched tight.

Every movement Katya makes speaks anger she expresses without words. Trixie is unable to decipher the language, but Katya’s friends have no problem.

Trixie’s never seen this side of her. It’s thrilling, actually.

Katya’s stands up. She smells like cologne and peppermint gum. Trixie drinks in the combined scent, and wills her eyes open while Katya’s are peering into them. A hand sets against the small of Trixie’s back, just barely, ghosting over the thin fabric of her dress, and Trixie’s skin buzzes.

In all honesty… She’s been wet since her eyes traced the line of Katya’s jaw. At this point, she’s a lost cause.

Katya leans in close. “You wanna talk outside?”

Trixie swallows. She feels déjà vécu and vertigo all at once.

“Yeah.”

[vordemtodgefeit]

Things my mum said during Wicked: Act Two

Thank Goodness: ‘So is this like a reprise, or what?’ ‘Kind of.’ ‘OOOOOH FIYERO IS IN LOVE WITH ELPHABA ISN’T HE?’ 'Yes, mum, that’s the reason behind the argument.’ … 'So she’s finally realised that she made the wrong choice, after - how long has it been since the green girl flew off?’ 'Between two and three years.’

Wicked Witch Of The East: 'Was that a Wizard of Oz reference?’ 'Yes.’ 'Aww, the look on her face. Not Nessa’s, Elphaba’s. She didn’t know, did she?’ 'No.’ … 'Wait. WAIT.’ ’…yes?’ 'HE’S THE TIN MAN! HE’S THE TIN MAN FROM THE WIZARD OF OZ!’ 'Yes, yes he is.’ 'So THAT’S what you meant when you said about the big plot point earlier.’ 'Exactly.’ 'So where are the other two? The Scarecrow and the lion?’ 'Ahh, you’ll see.’ 'Why are you grinning? What do you know?’

Wonderful: 'Wow, this is one manipulative son of a bitch.’

(Throne room scene:) 'OOH PLOT TWIST!’ 'I’m trying to listen!’ 'Aww, he’s so awkward and so adorable.’ 'Shhh.’ … 'WAIT WHAT THE FUCK DID THE BLONDE BITCH JUST DO?’ 'Mum, whisper-shouting in my ear is not the answer.’ 'SHE JUST BETRAYED HER BEST FRIEND! WHO DOES THAT - this is what you meant earlier, wasn’t it?’ 'Yes.’ 'Again.’ 'Yes.’

I’m Not That Girl (reprise): 'Okay I really like the role reversal here, and the whole taking-off-the-ring thing, but really? I’m still mad at her for that betrayal.’ 'Me too, mum. And I knew it was coming.’

As Long As You’re Mine: 'This is far too sappy. It’s cute, but cliche.’ 'Mum, would you quit it? I’m trying to watch!’ … 'Mind you, I love the whole not lying thing, that was good.’

(Catfight scene:) 'So THIS would be the catfight you mentioned at the start of the musical, not the one at the school.’ 'Yes.’ 'Okay, this is hilarious - OH THAT BITCH ACTUALLY DID IT, SHE PRETTY MUCH KILLED HER OH MY GOD.’ 'Yeah…no, she didn’t. Well, mentally perhaps, but not otherwise.’ 'What’s that supposed to mean?’ 'Wait for it.’ 'What do you mean, wait for - OOH ANOTHER PLOT TWIST!’ 'Great line, isn’t it?’ 'Yes, but doesn’t - OH NO. OH NO.’ 'Oh, yes.’ 'DOES WHAT I THINK HAPPEN ACTUALLY HAPPEN?’ 'Yes.’ 'Is that why you’re gripping my arm?’ ’…yes.’

No Good Deed: 'what is this eleka nahmen nonsense? It doesn’t even mean anything - oh, don’t look at me like that.’ 'Mum.’ 'Yes?’ 'Please, just shut up. Just shut up.’

March Of The Witch Hunters: 'You still haven’t told me, who are the Scarecrow and the lion? They’re people, right, like the Tin Man?’ 'Yes, you’ll see the Lion in a minute.’ … 'THE LION CUB THEY SAVED?!’ 'Yes, yes it is.’ 'She meant well!’ 'Sure she meant well, but loOK AT WHAT WELL-MEANT DID!’ 'That was a quote, wasn’t it?’ 'Yes, yes it was.’

For Good: 'This is actually really sweet, but isn’t she forgiving her a little easily? Like, the lyrics are great, but she indirectly caused all of this.’ 'I know, I know.’

(Post-Melting Scene:) 'So the WizARD WAS HER FATHER?!’ 'Yes.’ 'There’s a lot of plot twists in this musical…’ 'There’s one more, mum.’ … 'So Glinda finally grew a backbone.’ … 'What is the Scarecrow doing back at the castle?’ 'Wait, mum.’ 'He looks so gently at her. It’s adorable, it’s almost like he knows her.’ 'I said wait.’ 'She looks really upset - wait, what does she mean, she did this to him?’ 'Wait.’ 'They - OH MY GOD.’ ’…there it is.’ 'THE SCARECROW WAS FIYERO OH MY GOD.’ 'Yes, yes it is.’ 'That’s one hell of a plot twist.’ 'I know.’ 'So Glinda never finds out they’re alive?’ 'No, she doesn’t.’ 'Well, ouch.’

[theartificialdane]

Galactica, part 234

In this Bianca meet Courtney’s new friends, Shane does what he does best, Tatianna is in the spotlight, Allison tries a new craft and Fame has a bad day.

Thank you @veronicasanders @toriibelledarling and @samrull <3

“Okay, so, I just want you to be natural, be yourselves, this is just some like, filler footage for the package to introduce you guys,” Jane explained.

“Yeah, got it. Is that the strongest light you have?” Bianca asked. “I want the good Ramona light. The instant facelift light.”

Jane rolled her eyes and walked back to video village. “I’ll see what we can do.”

“Come on, Jane, don’t fuck me here! I’m standing next to a celestial being. Human perfection. Give me a damn light.”

Courtney burst out laughing. “Flattery will get you nowhere, Bianca.”

“That’s a lie. You’re a whore for compliments. Flattery will get me everywhere.”

“Oh yeah. Right.” Courtney winked at her.

“Heyyy! Thaaat’s a fucking light!” Bianca exclaimed, as a two guys rolled on a monster light into the kitchen, pointing it at the counter. “Jane, you’re amazing! I’m telling Andy to give you a raise.”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. Are you guys ready or what?”

“Roll it, Jane.”

Jane signalled the cameras crew to start rolling and then Courtney, who skipped around the corner into the kitchen in her running shorts.

“Good morning!” she sang, slipping her arms around Bianca from behind.

Bianca turned around from the coffee maker, kissing her. “Hi…”

Courtney pulled her against the counter, hands buried in her hair, lips parted, the kiss turning into something else altogether. “Told you…” Bianca breathed into her ear as Courtney giggled airily and arched against her, wrapping a leg around her waist.

“Guys!” Jane called out. “This is basic cable, not pay per view. Dial it back!”

Bianca looked up, slightly dazed. “Sorry Jane. She’s a bit of an exhibitionist.”

Giggling, Courtney pulled herself away slightly, giving her a more chaste kiss, as Vanity entered in full, glamourous drag, every sequin perfectly in place.

“Helloooooo,” Vanity crooned.

“Hey,” Bianca looked up, confused, pouring herself a mug of coffee. “Damn, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you before noon. Are you like...still up from last night?”

Vanity scoffed. “Don’t be silly, darling! I had a full night of beauty sleep...obviously.” She fluttered her lashes.

Courtney laughed, hopping up onto the counter and grabbing a nectarine from the fruit bowl. “Yeah, we can tell. You’re gorgeous.”

“Aw, thanks, sis. I’m glad you think so, because I’m tagging along with you today to Atlantic City.”

“Alright...you gonna help sell merch?” Courtney teased.

“I would be offended by that except that yes, that’s exactly what I’m doing. Latrice said that sometimes the people the venue assigns don’t know how to sell and if I move more than usual, I can get a commission.”

“Sounds fair to me.” Courtney high-fived her.

Bianca narrowed her eyes, hands resting on Courtney’s thighs. “What kind of commission, exactly?”

Courtney kissed her cheek. “B, don’t worry. I’m sure Latrice made a good deal.”

“You’re way too trusting.”

“He’s my /brother./ It’s not all about money.” Courtney shook her head.

“Thank you, Courtney.” Vanity stuck her tongue out at Bianca.

Bianca sighed. “I mean, sure. I have freeloading relatives, too.”

Courtney leaned forward and kissed her again. “Don’t be such a spoilsport.”

Sliding her hands up Courtney’s legs, Bianca deepened the kiss, fingers creeping inside the hem of her shorts.

“Ugh, are you really fingering my sister on the kitchen counter?” asked Vanity.

Bianca held up her middle finger. “You wanna stay in a hotel, bitch?”

“Guys! Cable!” called Jane. “Keep your hands outside the shorts, Bianca!”

Courtney giggled, wrapping her arms around Bianca’s neck. “We’re not safe for cable, B.”

“They can blur it out.”

Jane threw up her hands. “Mother fucker…”

***

Shane: What’s a vampire’s favorite fruit?

Betty: oh my god

Shane: No, you have to guess

Betty: I’m trying to work here

Shane: Looking at fabric swatches online isn’t work

Betty: excuse me, have you ever been a designer? didn’t think so

Shane: WHAT’S A VAMPIRE’S FAVORITE FRUIT

Betty: … a blood orange?

Shane: a NECKtarine

Shane: Betty

Shane: Betty

Shane: Admit that was funny

Betty: I hate you

Shane: <3

Betty could hear Shane’s silly little giggle all the way from his desk, so she looked away from her computer screen to give him an eyeroll, but her face decided to deceive her and she smiled instead. Everybody in the department seemed to be buried in their work or at least pretending to be, just like Betty was doing since morning. Trixie could be seen through the glass doors of his office, leafing through sketches with a pencil in his mouth while Ivan was peacefully napping in his crib.

Betty could use a peaceful nap as well. Or something else… maybe something that could wake her up, better than two coffees she already had.

Betty: truth be told I’m bored as hell. how much time left to lunch? wanna go hang out in the warehouse?

Shane: If by “hang out” you mean what you usually mean by “hang out”, no. Did you forget Fame had cameras installed last week?

Betty: fuck, I forgot

Betty: what is the deal with her lately?

Shane: No idea. We can go hang out in the Marketing bathroom though?

Betty exited Messenger as fast as she could and got up from her chair, heading for the door and gesturing for Shane to follow. They weren’t even out of the department yet when she felt his hand grabbing hers, Shane pressing a kiss to Betty’s temple as she closed the door behind them.

The corridor was empty, like the whole of Galactica has fallen into winter’s sleep.

“Hey babe, what do you call a huge pile of kittens?”

“Oh no. Not these again.”

“A MEOWntain,” replied Shane, his lean body vibrating with giggles and joy which only made Betty pull him faster towards the elevator.

“You’re the actual worst. Remind me why I married you?”

“Because you love me? Because I put up with all your moods and encourage everything that’s good in you? Because you require my constant support and relish in my bubbly personality, bad puns and whatnot? Or because -”

“Okay, okay, shut up. You win this round.”

“Woo! What do I have to do to win the next one?” They were in the elevator now, riding up to Marketing, Betty not really sure why she was holding so tight onto Shane’s shirt and trying to fit herself to the shape of his chest.

“Make me come in 15 minutes?”

“Oh girl. That’s it? Challenge accepted.”

***

Tatianna jumped out of the makeup chair, finally finished, popping a piece of gum into her mouth, and wandered over to chat with Naomi, whom she hadn’t seen for what seemed like weeks.

“Omigod, girl, you look stunning!” Tati smiled brightly. She knew she should probably be mad at Naomi, knew that the river of bad blood between Elite and Model Management had gotten just that little bit wider when Naomi jumped manager, but she couldn’t be mad. Not when it had helped her own career, and Naomi was so fun to be around. “Seriously, you’re gorgeous.”

“Thanks, you too!”

“We have to get a selfie!” Tati pulled out her phone and the two girls began snapchatting, pulling faces, cracking each other up. Naomi couldn’t keep her mouth shut as usual, the girl gushing about her glamorous life and the new apartment she had gotten on the Upper East Side. Tatianna didn’t say as much, but she got all the dirt on Naomi’s commercial shoot in Hawaii, the shoot sounding absolutely magical.

Tatianna looked up from their selfie session, her and Naomi dressed in the bunny filter when she heard Violet walk over to the two of them, holding an enormous gold gown, so big it practically engulfed her slender frame.

“Violet! Oh my gosh, how are you carrying that all by yourself?!” Tati exclaimed.

“I’m pretty strong.” Violet smiled, a teasing tone in her voice, and moved the gown a little so her face was free, the woman gesturing for Tatianna to come near her. Tatianna stood up, beyond grateful that Violet wasn’t acting as awkward as she had at the gym, even though she wouldn’t complain if her manager’s girlfriend wanted to throw more Dior cosmetics at her.

Naomi looked Violet up and down with some serious side-eye, her arms crossed, her eyes almost rolling. “Damn. That’s a big fuckin’ dress. Is Glinda the Good Witch going to be joining us?” Naomi's voice was snarky, her nose crinkling slightly, but Violet didn’t give her the time of day.

Violet ignored Naomi, instead speaking directly to Tatianna. The day was going to be stressful enough, between the mountain of work with the gowns and the pressure that she felt from Fame of putting on a happy face about the dreadful creative that had been decided for the shoot, and then Sutan as well? Violet smiled pleasantly, already deciding that she wasn’t going to engage with the angry model that kept asking for her attention. Violet could barely recognise her from the last Galactica runway, but she had honestly not  - she did not need to engage with this little brat. “Tati, this is going to be your first look. I have to sew you into it, so I hope you’ve been to the bathroom.”

“You’re sewing me again?”

“I’m sorry… I had to prioritize and since I know you can stand still… So, please?”

Tatianna smiled. “Sure thing!” She pulled off her robe and gestured to her bra. “Bra on or off?”

Violet felt a blush creeping into her cheeks. “Um…Off… You have to take it off. There’s a corset built into the dress…” Violet averted her eyes as Tati whipped off her bra and tossed it onto a chair with the robe, stepping into the gown that Violet held open for her, lifting her arms. Tatianna was so pretty, her skin looking like a caramel dessert. Her breasts the perfect size, her long hair glossy and wavy and smelling slightly of... was that mango?

“Are you blushing, Violet?” Naomi asked.

Violet visibly tensed up, beginning to sew the side of Tatianna’s gown closed, focused on her needle and thread.

“Hey, Naomi, is that Bianca calling you over the the other wardrobe rack?” Tatianna asked.

“She is?! Oh shit, thanks!” Naomi jumped up and raced over to the other side of the tent.

“Thank god,” Violet muttered.

Tatianna grinned. “She wasn’t really, I just thought maybe she was distracting you from your work.”

Violet smiled gratefully. “Well...thanks.”

“No prob. So like...this is becoming our regular thing, huh? I’m not sure if you know, but they make these amazing new contraptions called zippers.”

Violet chuckled. “Yeah, well, when you have to make 6 gowns in 3 weeks…”

“Jesus. When do you sleep?”

“I don’t.”

Tati smiled. She noticed that Violet’s face looked unusually serious, lines creasing her forehead. “What’s wrong?”

“You’re smaller than your measurements.”

“I am? That’s amazing, I’m gunning to do swimsuits in Miami, I still need about 4 pou-”

“No!” Violet threw her hand over her mouth, mortified.

“No?”

“It’s just.. No, no, forget I said anything, I’m sorry.” Violet tried to busy herself with the needle and thread again.

“No, Violet, seriously, what do you mean?”

“It’s just… You’re not made to be that slim... You’re not... You’re beautiful Tatianna. Just as you are.

“I...thanks.” Tati bit her lip and Violet looked down, the girls pale cheeks bright red.

*

April handed Naomi a shimmering gold mini-skirt and jeweled top. Nina shook her head. “I don’t know about that combination. Can we try the sweater instead? We don’t want it to get slutty.”

“Oh, of course!” April quickly switched the tops. “Do you think this top will work with the pants?”

Nina nodded. “/Much/ better. The first combo looked like something Bianca would have put her underage girlfriend in.”

“What did you say?” Bianca called from where she was talking to Tracy and Allison.

“Nothing, boss!” Nina chirped, giving her a thumbs-up.

Naomi and April both giggled, nodding when Nina made a “zipping your lips” gesture.

*

Violet stood to the side, trying not to wring her hands while the photographers took their test shots. One of the models had nearly stepped on the heavily beaded skirt of her gown and every time it happened, Violet almost had a heart attack.

She tried to keep her breathing even, but when the girl did it for the 27th time, Violet, unable to stop herself, rushed forward to fix the skirt, stammering out an apology to Tracy, admonishing the model in a low voice. “If you step on this dress, there are going to be 10,000 beads rolling down Fifth Avenue!”

The girl cringed, eyed wide. “Oh shit, sorry. I didn’t realize it was that delicate. It’s so beautiful.”

“Well...yeah.” Violet calmed down a little at her attitude, and even more when Tati put a reassuring hand on her shoulder while she straightened the skirt. “Just, um, try to be careful. I’ll be here to help if you need me.”

“Thanks.”

“Don’t worry, Violet, we’re not looking to destroy any couture!” Tracy called, grinning.

“Thank you.” Violet smiled tightly, wondering why, if that were really the case, there were crew members prepping a /hot dog cart/ down the block, and more still setting up lights at the playground? She shuddered, thinking about how horribly tacky it was all going to be.

*

Nina stood next to Bianca, watching as they changed set-ups. “I see you hired another one of your exes. I thought you were taking a step in the right direction with this diversity initiative, and then another step back…” she clucked her tongue.

Bianca rolled her eyes. “First of all, Allison is not my EX, okay, she’s someone we’ve been employing as a model for years, and she’s a talented photographer who needs experience. She can learn a lot from Tracy. Who is black. In case you haven’t noticed.”

“I noticed.”

“And awesome.”

“Agreed.” Nina pursed her lips.

“And we’re meeting with Linda about the fellowship program on Tuesday. So chill out.”

“Wait...Tuesday? Isn’t that when you normally attend your Klan rallies?”

“I mean, yeah, but I only go there to pick up hot Aryan chicks, and I’m in a relationship now, so...my schedule’s open.”

They exchanged a knowing look.

After a beat, Bianca grinned, dimples deep. “Nice to have to back on the team, Garcia.”

*

“Violet! Come here… Check out the photos!” Allison smiled widely. She and Tati were standing at the one of the monitors, where Allison was quietly giving Tatianna tips while everyone was wrapping for their location move. “If you arch your back a little more here, the negative space would be great...see?”

“Oh, okay! Got it.”

Violet, who had been sipping on a cup of tea, stepped up to the monitor, her stomach a giant knot. She wanted to throw her hands over her eyes, and peek between her fingers, but unfortunately she was an adult, and she couldn’t.

Violet looked at the screen, and it felt like a punch to her stomach. Tracy’s photos were beautiful. Violet had been so worried, her style and her gowns really not made for the harsh urban feel of the street, but here they were, looking amazing. The rich, luxurious fabric against the rough bricks, and the simple plastic and the metal in the playground made them shine, like beacons of beauty amongst the everyday mess of New York.

“Oh Allison… Oh Allison...” Violet reached out, the woman dragging Allison into a hug, the two girls holding each other. “Thank you… Thank you so much… It’s beautiful.”

Allison smiled at the younger girl, not fully understanding the depth of Violet’s relief, but certainly happy that she was happy. She had had a soft spot for the shy brunette ever since Raven had introduced them, and her affection had grown with time, though she remained an enigma. Violet was weird, but she was pretty okay after all.

***

The last sequence of shots, at the Sky Terrace of the Hudson hotel, was where the real “money” shots took place, and it was absolutely breathtaking. City lights sparkled below, extras were brought in to give the place a real lounge vibe, and the girls looked gorgeous - the epitome of youthful glamour. It seemed like exactly what Nina wanted all along, which was confirmed when she breezed over to April and Violet with two glasses of champagne.

“Ladies…” she said, handing one to each of them, “Thank you so much for your hard work on this project. It’s come together very beautifully. And Violet, I know we were tough with you, but you really delivered - every note we gave was addressed, and even caught some things we didn’t see. Your work is quite impressive. Miss Fame should be proud of you both.”

“See, Garcia?” Bianca added, slinging an arm around her shoulders. “Sometimes nepotism works out for the best.”

Violet bristled a little, that nagging little worry about Fame’s “favor” rearing it’s ugly head.

“Don’t push your luck,” Nina said, tossing Bianca a good-natured eye roll.

Bianca laughed. “Well, this was my creative vision all along, so thanks for helping manifest it. To talent.” She clinked glasses with them and then got called over by the Creative Director, leaving them with a wink and a flash of her signature dimples.

“You’re welcome...your highness,” Nina replied, rolling her eyes harder as Bianca walked away, causing April and Violet to both giggle conspiratorially. “To the real talent,” she said, toasting them again.

Violet clinked glasses, filled with pride and happiness, realizing after seeing a full day of it that their little bickering was just the way they worked, and maybe even a necessary part of their creative process. She looked back over at the models, who were set up for the final shot, on the dance floor, movement and lights and a sparkling sky behind them, alive with energy and possibility. Her heart burst with pride, thinking that these were the moments when the drudgery, the all-nighters, the physical pain of it all, this is what made it worth it.

***

On Monday morning, Violet stood in the wardrobe room, checking in the pieces from the Marie Claire shoot, making sure it was all catalogued in the system, and in perfect condition. She hadn’t had the energy on Saturday when she’d dropped everything off at the crack of dawn. She also didn’t want to dump it in Ivy’s lap the way people often did.

She perked up a little when she heard Miss Fame’s voice on the other side of the door. Violet had indirectly been avoiding her since their unfortunate meeting, where she’d inadvertently set her off into a blinding rage, but now, given how beautifully everything had turned out, she was actually looking forward to the chance to report back in. Violet quickly finished what she was doing, gathering herself and smoothing out her skirt, ready to talk to her boss.

If there was one thing Fame loved hearing more than anything in the world, it was that she was right. Violet now knew that her instincts about the creative had been wrong, everything somehow coming together in the end. Talking to Fame, admitting she was wrong, wasn’t exactly something she was thrilled to do, but Violet felt like she owed it to Fame. She was the boss after all. The last thing she wanted was to be perceived as ungrateful for an opportunity.

Fame limped into the wardrobe closet, ranting to herself about the poor quality these days, one of her shoes in her hands, complete with a broken heel.

“Good morning, miss - oh! What happened?”

“What does it look like?” Fame snapped. “The heel broke off my damn shoe. Ugh, what a disastrous morning…” Fame kept walking forward to the shoe section, searching for a replacement pair, still limping slightly.

Violet knew it was Roxy’s job, and that getting near a seething Fame could be a dangerous move, but she still went towards her, quickly and silently pulling down pairs that looked similar to the ones Fame held in her hands and placing them on the table within her reach.

“Thank you.”

Violet nodded in response, silently thankful for Fame’s admission of a good mood since her help had been acknowledged. Fame sighed and tried on the first pair, examining her look in the mirrors, Violet biting her lip before she picked up her courage and opened her mouth.

“The Marie Claire shoot went well.”

“And Bianca was pleased?”

“Yes.” Violet nodded. “Nina too.”

“Good.”

“And I...I..” Violet knew Fame preferred short sentences, quick information and proper answers, but she had to say something. “I want to apologize for what I said, about the creative… It was out of line, and..I was wrong, and I’m sorry. I was wrong to question them.”

Fame turned to her slowly, eyes narrowed. “Well. I’m delighted that you realized that, Violet. It certainly shows maturity to recognize and admit a mistake.”

Violet felt slightly taken aback by her sharp tone. Fame usually never snapped like that when someone was agreeing with her. Had she done something wrong? Violet bit her lip, Fame’s eyes almost burning as she watched her. “I… I hope you can forget what I said about not wanting my name on it...” Violet said with a hopeful smile. She was honestly happy about the shoot, and proud of the work she had done for Galactica. That she had delivered a piece of work that had lived up to the clients, and hopefully to Fame’s expectations. “I’m very grateful for the opportunity...”

Fame smiled back icily. “Here’s the thing, dear. I’m glad you came to this conclusion. I really am. But I already told Bianca to give the credit to Galactica. So, chalk this one up to a learning experience, and maybe next time, you’ll think twice before acting like a petulant, spoiled child.”

She turned on her heel and sailed out of the room, slamming the door to the closet behind her. Violet was staring, the slam still ringing in her ears, her chest tight. Fame had never been that vicious to her before, and Violet felt like throwing up.

[theartificialdane]

Galactica, part 226

This is halloween, everybody make a scene, trick or treat till the neighbors gonna die of fright! Happy Halloween everyone from the Galactica characters who has finally made it to the biggest costume party of the year <3

Thank you @veronicasanders @toriibelledarling and @samrull for all their help with this wonderfull story <3

“Ta da!” Courtney burst into the bedroom, hair in French-braided pigtails, curled at the ends, tied with blue ribbons. She was still wearing pajamas and carrying her costume on a hanger. “What do you think?”

“If it say you look cute, is this gonna become another weird age thing?” Bianca asked, closing her computer.

Courtney laughed and crawled onto the bed, shaking her head.

“Okay, then you look fucking cute. Come here…”

Courtney bit her lip. “Don’t we need to start getting ready?”

“Seriously? We have like 3 hours.”

“I know! But you have all that green makeup to deal with, and Ben is making me wear false eyelashes. That’s gonna take me like a half hour.”

Bianca burst out laughing. “I’ll do your eyelashes, bunny.” She pulled Courtney into her lap, kissing her neck. “There. I just saved us a half hour.”

“Mmmhmm, okay…” Courtney closed her eyes.

Bianca slid a hand up her thigh, wondering if she should be trying to talk to her girlfriend instead of doing her usual thing. An image flashed into her mind of Courtney the night before, clinging to her mother when it was time to say goodbye, sobbing her eyes out like the world was ending. Even Adore seemed a little taken aback, but ultimately shrugged, reminding Bianca that Courtney had gone almost 2 years without seeing her parents in person, so obviously it made sense that she’d feel emotional seeing them leave.

She seemed alright today, though, sighing happily as Bianca caressed her soft skin, murmuring into Bianca’s ear, “I’m sorry, B.”

“Sorry for what, baby?”

“I know that’s I’ve been a little, um, you know, distracted by the album and the concert and everything. But tonight is all about us. We’re gonna have a great time. Okay?”

“Deal.”

“So I have to ask...what are you planning to wear under your costume?” Courtney smirked, fingering the black fabric beside them.

“What...do you want me to wear?”

Courtney’s eyes lit up. “/I/ get to choose?”

“I think it’s your turn, right?”

She bounced excitedly in Bianca’s lap. “Oh my god, this is amazing! I feel drunk with power…” She grabbed Bianca by the back of the neck, kissing her deeply.

Bianca laughed. “I think I’m gonna let you pick my underwear more often.”

***

“So what are we watching again Bonbon?”

Pearl smiled as she dumped down on the couch, two beers in her hand before she gave one of them to Laila. Laila and Pearl was dressed up, their hair perfected, Laila crafting Pearl’s makeup to perfection, but then as they were about to get out of the cab, Laila had gotten a panic attack, Pearl holding Laila as she couldn’t breath, the thought of all of the people, of having to hang out with Pearl’s friends, coworkers and the social climber strangers that tried to use her girlfriend all too much, so Pearl had done the only thing she could think of. She had booked them into a hotel and ordered an extra large pepperoni pizza.

“Nightmare before Christmas.”

“Nice.”

Pearl turned her head, Laila kissing her, their lipsticks mixing slightly.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Laila looked small, her eyes a dim, and Pearl felt worry settle in her stomach.

“Of course I am, I’m here with you.”

“But what abou-”

“I don’t care about some shitty party, or the foam cannons or the fact that I have three different kinds of body glitter in my bag.”

“But-”

“No.” Pearl grabbed the box of pizza and opened it. “Now start me the movie so we can watch Jack the Fruit king.”

“Pumpkin.”

“Duh, pumpkin is a fruit dumbdumb.”

***

“Coming!” Courtney skipped to the door, swinging Kylie in his little basket, throwing it open to reveal Adore, Jinkx and Alaska. She gasped in delight. “You guys look AMAZING!”

“I know, right?” Adore replied smugly, twirling her axe, silver makeup glittering.

Jinkx laughed and stepped inside. “My friend Roy works at this fantastic costume house. He helped out. And of course we’ve got the best makeup artist in the city at our disposal.”

Alaska tongue popped.

“Seriously, you look SO good! I feel so underdressed…” Courtney shook her head.

Adore put her arm around Courtney. “Awww, bae, you’re a perfect little Dorothy. Someone’s gotta be the bitch from Kansas, right?”

Courtney laughed. “Yeah, and Ben would only agree to the theme if he was Glinda. But I mean, I thought I went so over the top, with sequins and false eyelashes.”

“You’re wearing lashes?” Alaska asked, squinting.

“Yeah, you can’t tell?!”

Alaska laughed. “Not really, but that’s okay. You look pretty.”

“Fuck. Bianca helped and I told her to use a light hand with the mascara. ‘Cause, you know, between her and Vanity, I’m not sure who wears more makeup.”

“Ha! Speaking of the witches...where are they?”

“B’s almost ready, and Vanity wants to make an entrance. Can I get you guys a drink?”

Jinkx shook her head, the shiny curls of her lion’s mane shining in the lamp light. “We’ve been instructed not to eat, drink, touch our skin, or move until after photos are taken, lest we destroy Alaska’s artistry.”

“Hey, assholes!” Bianca said, walking down the hall in full Wicked Witch regalia, trailed by Sammy and Dede as little flying monkeys.

“B! You’ve shed your human skin and come as your true self!” Adore cried. “You look radiant!”

Bianca held up one green hand to give Adore the middle finger. “And who decided that you’d be the Tin Man? You have the mushiest heart of anyone in the universe.”

“Well, right, isn’t that the whole point? Like...irony, or whatever, cause he had the heart all along?”

“Yeah, exactly, and Alaska is the smart one; that’s why she’s the Scarecrow,” Jinkx added.

“I thought it’s ‘cause she’s the tall one…” Adore mused.

Alaska laughed and tossed Adore a kiss, posing sexily in her burlap booty shorts, long legs covered with intricately drawn patches and stiching.

“And we’re supposed to be celebrating your remarkable bravery?” Bianca asked Jinkx.

“Rowr!” Jinkx growled.

“Nice.”

“Citizens of Oz! Behold!”

“Oh, dear Christ,” said Bianca, and Courtney giggled, taking her arm.

Vanity swept into the room, in a gigantic pink ball gown, strawberry-blonde wig, and 2 foot crown. Courtney clapped and jumped up and down in her ruby slippers, squealing.

“Holy shit, you are STUNNING!” cried Alaska.

“Thank you, love,” said Vanity. “I know. To the party?”

“Ummm…” Courtney shook her head. “Hello, no, we need to Snapchat first.”

“Yes!” Adore squealed.

Vanity looked at Bianca, shaking her head. “Kids, amiright?”

***

Sutan laughed as he and Violet stumbled into Sutan’s car, the Violet’s dress so big he had to lift it to sit down, the fabric falling over him and covering him as he finally got into the car too.

“Your costume is gigantic mata indah.”

“My dress is the perfect size.”

Sutan settled in and closed the door, Violet giggly and happy, happier than Sutan had seen her in a while for some reason, the girl carefully leaning her head against his shoulder. Violet was beautiful, a fantasy of flowers and silk, her hair put up, jewerly covering her slender wrists, and Sutan had never felt prouder to be Violet’s boyfriend, his own costume nicer than any other he had ever worn, though he wasn’t proud of the fact that his Hades costume put the Batman one to shame.

“Ow ow ow ow, Sutan, you’re arm is on my hair.”

“Oops.” Sutan smiled, quickly moving so he wasn’t caught up in Violet’s extensions anymore. “I’m sorry.” Violet rolled her eyes, and Sutan grabbed a strand, tugging on Violet’s hair, her head bending at the pull.

“Sutan!” Violet gasped, surprised painted on every feature as the car started moving.

“I didn’t do anything.”

“You did, you totally did!”.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Sutan smiled as Violet sat up straight, the woman rolling her eyes as she took out her phone, turning on the front camera as she was checking her hair and fixing her makeup, the car stopped and Sutan opened the door and got out. He turned around, ready to tell the driver to take Violet around the corner and drop her off so she could walk into the party through the backdoor, when he felt a slender hand on top of his own, Violet smiling as she got out of the car too, and before Sutan knew it, he and Violet were walking the red carpet together.

***

“Should we wait any longer Miss?”

Fame looked at Roxy and sighed. “No… Let’s go.” Fame picked up her gloves, and Roxy and Fame left Fame’s townhouse, Patrick’s costume left behind on the untouched bed upstairs since he hadn’t been home in weeks.

“Miss, are you okay?”

Fame turned her head, quickly wiping her tears away. “I’m fine.”

“You don’t look fine.”

Fame snorted, but smiled. “Were you also this annoying and nosy when I hired you?”

“Afraid so Miss.” Roxy grabbed a handkerchief from her bag, and wiped Fame’s cheeks gently without removing her makeup.

“I’m glad you are.”

***

"I swear this dress looks even better on me now than before," Raven slurred as she kissed on Raja's neck, the rum pumping through her system. "Would you toot me Rara?" Raja shivered as she felt Raven's teeth tug at her earlobe, "only if you refrain from leaving hickies on my neck," Raja purred. "Wanna play a game baby?" Raven peeked up at the sound of playing a game, "I love games! Games give me life," Raven sang happily as she drained her glass of wine. "Games games games!" Raja laughed at Raven's song and dance, "Let's play toot or boot with the guests." Raja began as she scanned the crowd for their first contestant, "I spy with my smokey eye, a glittery devil in cowboy boots." Raven narrowed her eyes as she zeroed in on the person Raja was talking about, "I would hate to be him," she said as she twirled Raja's hair around her finger. "I mean look at those boots and that patchy glitter job… Fucking boot those boots." "I toot for originality, and for commitment since he'll never get rid of all that glitter," Raja added with a nod. "Oh look," Raven started as she used Raja's hand to point to what she could only assume was a woman. "I spy with my shady eyes, a DIY Victoria's Secret angel." Raja snorted into her martini at Raven's description, "She doesn't look that bad lovey," Raja crooned as she felt Raven try to crawl into her lap. "I think she looks quite lovely." "She's wearing a cheap white mesh bodysuit from Leg Avenue, $15 lingerie, fishnets from the bodega and a child's sequined fairy wings." Raven replied with a flat tone as she tipped some of Raja's blood orange martini into her empty glass. "She should have gone to Party City; if you're going to look cheap, make it a cohesive cheap look all from the same plastic bag." "So do you toot it or boot it?" Raja asked as she drank the rest of her martini making Raven pout and huff. "I toot it," Raven said with a cheeky grin, "I'm all for looking like Julia Roberts better looking slutty sister." "So is that tonight's esthetic theme, I thought you were Aphrodite?" Raja asked innocently as she turned her head to look at Raven, "It's very Slut-a-rella couture?" Raven cackled, kicking her legs in drunken glee, "Yaaaaaasss!! This is from the spring/summer collection for the new season!" Raven squealed happily as she clung to Raja's neck before flinching as she felt her implant shift. "So do you toot it Athena?" "The siren before me or the angel wannabe below?" Raja drawled as she watched Raven get up to grab a half drunk bottle of champagne and bring it up to her lips. "The wannabe," Raven replied with a hiccup as she poured some champagne in Raja's glass. "I'll give it a toot for effort," Raja said after draining her glass of champagne, offering it back to Raven to refill. "But a boot for poor execution and absolutely no attention to detail; Victoria’s Secret would never dare put one of their angels in that white mesh tragedy." "But what about the siren?" Raven asked, "does she get a toot for effort or boot for slut appeal?" "I'll give her a toot for her daring," Raja replied as she fingered the hem of Raven's dress, "but she'll get a boot and a spank if she wears that dress again without anything besides fashion tape underneath." Raven wasn't sure if it was the alcohol or Raja's words that made her face tinge pink, "what about a toot and spank?" Raven asked as she straddled Raja's lap, mindful of Sutan and her knees as she settled down on her fiancées lap. Raja looked up at her drunk fiancée who looked like she was having the time of her life giving her a pseudo lap dance while lip syncing the song playing, "a toot now and a spank later." Raja replied, letting her hand creep up the back of Raven's skirt, her fingertips grazing right below her bare ass. Raven giggled at the ticklish sensation that ran up her spine, "I'll be holding you to that since I have this dress in 3 different colors and one will definitely be worn at our wedding." Raja gripped Raven's ass tightly, pulling her closer to her smiling slightly, "you're so scandalous," Raja purred near Raven's ear, "but that will be a honeymoon outfit only." "If you say so," Raven crooned as she wrapped her arms around Raja's neck, almost flashing the crowd below. "I toot you too babe." Raja smiled as she felt Raven settle against her and her breathing slow down, "thank you Rave, you're my top toot of the week." "I'm your top toot of life bitch," Raven mumbled into Raja's neck. "That you are princess, that you are."

***

Alaska turned to Adore and murmured under her breath, “Is she ever gonna get bored?”

Adore laughed and shook her head, pulling the taller girl closer. “No, she fucking loves a step and repeat,” she responded, watching Courtney ham it up with Bianca and Vanity, pulling faces as reporters snapped photos of all of them.

At the moment, she was pretending to be terrified of Bianca as the Wicked Witch, cowering against Vanity as Glinda, with Kylie clutched in her arms. Jinkx stood off to the side directing them.

“Lasky! Adore!” Courtney waved them over excitedly. “Come on! Yellow Brick Road Realness!”

Adore glanced back at Alaska, grinning at her, before they went to indulge their friend and the paparazzi some more. “Sure, Dorothy. You bossy cunt.”

***

“Raja! Take our picture!” Raven smiled brightly. Her friends in the “Elite 6” had finally all shown up, and Raven wanted to get pictures with them - with herself center stage as usual, showing off her new tits and her offseason ass in her tight, sinful costume. Celia got close right away, her blonde hair and fair face making her look like a snow queen next to Raven’s deep brown colouring. Fo was already slightly drunk, the girl happily vlogging everything with her phone, while Jaslene had to be pried off her husband’s face. Allison got in the picture too and Sutan smiled when he saw that she looked genuinely happy. He, Raja and Violet sat nearby in a booth. Raja got up to oblige her slightly tipsy fiancee.

“Tati! Come here! You have to be in the photo too!” Allison called.

Tati protested, but Allison dragged her in as Raja began to snap photos of all of them, the girls laughing together for the camera.

***

Tati was nervous afterwards when they sat down, Sutan buying a round of shots for the table. She watched Raven scrolling through the photos on Raja’s phone, deciding which one to post. “Do you think I can see the picture? I don’t want to look weird,” she requested softly, perhaps too softly as Raven didn’t seem to hear her.

“I wouldn’t worry,” came Violet’s voice beside her. “You look great.”

“Are you sure? We had pizza the other day and I know gluten was a choice, but I feel all-”

“Your ass is nicer than my entire face Tatianna, you’re gorgeous.”

Tati looks over at Violet, slightly surprised by such a passionate compliment from her agent’s girlfriend.

“I mean...uh...you know…” Violet was flushing furiously. “You’re a model, you must know how pretty you are!” she finished.

Tatianna smiled, touching Violet’s hand. “I’m a little out of my element here. So sometimes...thank you. I needed to hear that.”

Violet pulled her hand away quickly, not meeting Tatianna eyes, almost looking like she was blushing, but Tati couldn’t really see her in the dim light. Violet reached out, picking up her glass and pushing one towards Tatianna. “Cheers.”

“Cheers.”

***

“Sutan! Hi” Chad smiled brightly as she leaned against the bar, her Cher costume making her a striking image of the celebrity.

“Hi Chad. Lovely outfit.” Sutan wiggled his eyebrows, making Chad laugh as she knew he was making fun of her.

“So have you heard?” Chad accepted the drink the bartender gave her, taking a long sip while she looked at Sutan, mischief in her eyes.

“Heard what?” Chad always had the best gossip, the woman somehow knowing everything about everyone since she was working at Saks, every brand with respect for themselves had their stuff there, so she knew practically everyone.

“Marie Claire is fighting.”

“.. The Ford models?”

“No silly! Bianca and Nina.”

“Really?”

“Cross my heart and hope to die.”

Sutan took a swing of his beer, not really sure if he should believe Chad, but she had never shared anything that wasn’t true before, he could see that she was looking at him in that certain way though, clearly expecting him to share some gossip himself since he knew Bianca so well. “I’ve always told Bianca she was better than MC anyway. She deserves to be the editor in chief of Vogue.”

Chad laughed at how Sutan deflected the question, letting him off the hook since they had known each other for years.

“You’ve always shot for the moon Amrull, both for yourself and for everyone else.”

“Everyone should, even if you miss you still end up among the stars.”

***

“Okay goblins! If everyone walks /slowly/ to the kitchen, we can divide your candy in threes.”

“But we don’t want to share with Grace! She’s too small!”

“Too bad munchkin, sharing is important, now walk.” Detox picked up his kids shoes, the terror twins having toed them off the moment they got inside, Julia dressed as an egg while Owen was a TV. Detox had no idea why Juju had allowed them to pick their own costumes, but since he hadn’t been home, he wasn’t going to complain about the fact that his wife had taken care of Halloween for him.

“You’re being so harsh on them.” Detox looked up, and saw Juju who was dressed as a cowboy, fitting in with her children’s theme of weird shit, while Grace who was sitting on her hip, the little girl dressed like a sheep.

“Aren’t you the fruit boxes and organic grapes queen?”

“But it’s Halloween. You have to get a stomachache” Juju looked down at Grace who was sleeping in her little costume. “And if we let them eat and watch TV, we could have time for a little Halloween celebration ourself.” Juju smiled and reached out to grab onto the belt of Detox’s chicken pants. “My sexy chicken man.”

“... This costume turns you on?”

“More than you know.”

“... I’ll take Grace.”

***

Allison walked over to Tatianna, carrying drinks for both of them. “Here you go… You drink vodka Red Bull, right?” Allison smiled sweetly. She looked so cute in her little angel costume, Tati thought.

“Wait...you paid for these?” Tati asked, adjusting her devil horns.

“Sure.” Allison smiled and stood next to Tatianna, surveying the crowd. “Wow, everyone looks great, don’t th--”

“Oooh, look at you and your fancy supermodel girlfriend!” came a playfully teasing voice from the side.

Tati turned to find Adore in a sexy glittering Tin Man costume, hand on her hip, eyebrows cocked. “Fuck off Adore, you know I don’t swing like that.” Tatianna said. She felt weird when she saw Allison’s big, expressive eyes widen at Adore’s comments.

“Seriously? You’re going to pretend to be straight,” Adore laughed.

Tati put a hand on her hip and began, “I’m very straig-”

Adore grabbed Tati around the waist and kissed her. Tati sputtered out a protest at first, but soon got into the kiss, grabbing Adore’s hair, not new to this little interaction between them, although it normally occurred when she had far more alcohol in her. Allison watched, wondering if this was why her roommate never talked about boys.

Tati was breathless by the time they broke apart, and tried to cover it up by saying, “Ugh, you ruined my lipstick, didn’t you?”

Laughing, Adore brushed a finger against her cheek, where silver glitter lingered. “That’s the least of your problems, princess.”

Tati glanced over Adore’s shoulder and saw a very jealous-looking woman dressed like the Scarecrow looking like she wanted to stab her eyes out. “Yeah, tell me about it. Your girlfriend looks pissed.”

“Which one?” Adore grinned impishly, then held out a hand to Allison. “Sorry, I’m being very rude. I’m Adore Delano. I went to college with Tati.”

“Allison. I’m her roommate.”

“Pleasure. You girls have fun. Happy Halloween!” Adore winked and turned to head back to Jinkx and Alaska.

*** “Sutan! Sutan! Are you out here?” Violet peeked out of the door, and stepped out onto the patio. Heidi Klum truly thought of everything, the area for smokers kept warm by several space heaters, everyone drinking and laughing as there was a bar at the far end of the room, the floor covered by superheros, musical characters and a slutty version of everything under the sun. Violet wrapped her arms around herself, her delicate gown, the deep neck and her bare arms making her shiver slightly anyway. Violet walked around, the cigarette smell crass in her nose as she walked around, looking for her boyfriend who she finally spotted at the edge of the patio. “Sutan!”

Violet smiled as she quickly walked over to her boyfriend who opened his arms and pulled her into a half hug.

“Hello lovely eyes.” Sutan kissed her hair. “How come you got such lovely eyes?”

“Stooop.” Violet giggled, the girl sneaking her hands underneath Sutan’s costume to warm them. Sutan flicked his cigarette and threw it in one of the ashtrays before he wrapped both arms around. “What are you doing out here?” Sutan took a step away, making a little distance between him and the big group of men he had been talking to just moments before.

“Looking for you.” Violet smiled, her cheeks a dusty pink as she snuggled into Sutan’s chest. “You have my wallet.”

“That’s correct.”

“Can I have it?”

“Why?” Sutan was gently swaying with Violet, the two of them almost dancing to the music from inside they could faintly hear.

“To buy drinks?“ Violet giggled, the woman gently turning her head up, effectively shutting Sutan up as they kissed lacy, neither of them noticing the bald man that took pictures of them from across the room.