#but I also think he's absolutely afraid of what having his parents attention for once might mean for him

[grandwretch]

Steve genuinely does seem afraid of his dad tho like just from the few references we get to him I feel like he tries to play it off as ha ha my dad sucks but also. Steve has killed multiple monsters and refuses to rebel against his dad even a little in s3 so take that how u will

[mythicmanuscripts]

Hi! I love your blog so much. I'm literally obsessed! I've wanted sub aemond content for so long and your account is like an oasis in the desert.

I was thinking about aemond and how for so long he felt unwanted and unloved, like he didn't have a place among his family. Because of this I think he'd really like reader telling him "Your mine", even more so than being told "im yours". Not in a aggressive or possessive way (although I do think he'd like reader being protective of him) but in the sense that someone loves him so much that they would openly claim him as theirs. That they aren't ashamed of him or for others to know he's all theirs.

I also think it provides him some sense of security. Like he feels so safe knowing he belongs to you so he doesn't have to worry about anyone else.

Idk if this makes sense, hopefully it does😭I just can't stop thinking about this, I've had it on my mind for a while now.

Oh my god I love this!!! This is so perfect everything you wrote here is incredible.

There’s nothing explicit in my answer but it is very clearly sub!Aemond and has some suggestive tones so I’ll hide it under the cut just in case :))

So I think Aemond really struggles with the idea of being anyone’s first choice? He grew up as a second son, always teased and mocked and never taken seriously. He didn’t expect you to be any different.

The first thing you do that really shows Aemond how much you care for him is just how loyal you are? I’m thinking of a situation where you and your family are at the red keep to look for a husband for you, and obviously your family are trying their hardest to secure an betrothal from Aegon because he’s king.

But then Aemond catches your eye? You end up having a very simple conversations with him, and you know pretty much instantly that he’s the one you want. Aemond wants you too of course. He hasn’t felt this accepted in his life and he absolutely loves talking with you. You and him sit together at the far end of the table every dinner, taking amongst yourselves and Aemond doesn’t even acknowledge anyone else. He takes every scrap of your attention that he can, especially because he’s so certain that your parents are angling for Aegon and that once the betrothal is announced he won’t be able to spend time with you like this again.

You put a spanner in the works. After a few weeks at the red keep you tell your family in no uncertain terms that you want Aemond and Aemond only. Your family is hesitant, both because Aemond is the second son and because Aemond is known to be violent and cold.

But you insist.

When your parents go to Aemond to tell him that you have expressed your desire to marry him instead of Aegon, the poor lad just about feints. He says he would be honoured of course, and then the moment they leave he’s sprinting across the castle to your quarters.

You’re confused to see him knocking on your door. You know you shouldn’t open the door because people might see and rumours may start but you couldn’t care less. He is here, so you will let him in.

At first you actually think he looks upset? When you ask what’s going on he just softly asks, “Do you really want me? Did you mean it when you told your parents I was your first choice?”

You don’t even get to finish the word “yes” before he’s barrelling forwards and pulling you into a tight hug. He buries his head in your shoulder and clings to you. He’s so overwhelmed to hear that someone actually chooses him, never mind it being someone he already wishes he could marry.

You hug him back of course, and then when you try to pull away he just grips you tighter. It's like he's afraid if he lets go of you that you'll disappear. You end up having to just rub his back and whisper that you mean it, that you aren't going anywhere.

Aemond truly doesn’t even know what to do with himself when you tell him that you never even considered Aegon, from the moment you saw him no one else came close.

This is definitely where the possessiveness comes in, because there’d be a period between expressing this and actually having the betrothal ironed out and announced.

Until then, all the other male suiters try to get your attention and win your love and it drives Aemond absolutely insane. You actually have to watch him very closely or else he will lure a suitor into the gardens and kill them. He’s threatens to plenty of times.

A big part of this possessive comes from the fact that he honestly is just waiting for the other shoe to drop? He’s so certain that one day you'll wake up and realise what a terrible decision you've made and beg for the betrothal to be canceled.

So every time you talk to another man, he's so so convinced you'll prefer them and tell him that you don't want him anymore. Which is why he absolutely hates seeing you with other people because he thinks every time he's losing his chance.

And so every time you walk back to him and tell him that you can't wait for your parents to officially announce the betrothal he nearly starts crying. He's watching you choose him over and over again and he truly cannot believe it.

As much as he's very traditional and respectful, I think he kinda just falls apart when faced with the fact that you genuinely want him? He tell himself he'll do this the right way, the way that's expected of him but he can't control himself when he's faced with the reality that you actually genuinely want him.

I don't think you two would be able to wait until marriage for that exact reason. He cannot stand the thought of another even considering being with you and honestly he can't even sleep thinking about it.

He ends up knocking on your door most nights and spending hours with you. He can't get enough of you, and he especially can't get enough of hearing you say you love him and want him. How could he ever be expected to spend the night alone knowing that a few floors down there's a woman he absolutely adores who will open her door and let him cuddle her and hear about her day?

He cannot be expected to spend the nights alone and to watch you speak to others and to wait patiently until the betrothal is announced. He never expected to find someone who makes him feel loved and safe and now that he has found you he will never ever let you go.

[morbific-or-felicific]

-WATASHIATO Featuring Kazuha

Meaning: Curiosity about the impact you’ve had on the lives of the people you know

Word Count: 5.1k~

Description: You unfortunately catch the eye of a certain boy you used to avoid in high school

Content Warning: dubcon, shitty awful men, sex while heavily intoxicated, cream pie, manipulation

Authors Note: I wrote this to help process an experience that I had so please don’t come at me for glamourizing assault or anything like that

Edited By: @pretty-princess-peach

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You had always avoided Kazuha in high school. He always smelled of weed, and you didn’t want to risk your parents thinking that you were smoking or that you were hanging around those kinds of kids. Although, part of you had always wanted to talk to him. He seemed easygoing and funny, he almost always had a smile on his face, and he was absolutely gorgeous. However, you didn’t want to risk being associated with him or his friends. They were doing drugs, after all, so they couldn’t be good kids. So you stuck with your safe friends, even if you were curious about Kazuha and his friends.

~ ♡ ~

You had graduated high school several months ago now, and you were living in residence at your university, away from your protective parents. So far, your first year of school had been fairly uneventful. While your dorm mates went to parties and slept around, you were doing your homework and staying in.

It was a little past the middle of the second semester now, and you had been growing more and more curious about your friends' lifestyles. What was it like to get drunk? What did it feel like to be high? What was sex like?

But your curious musings would have to wait, since you were almost late for class.

You finished grabbing your stuff and ran out the door, sprinting across campus to the building that your class was held in. You happened to make it just in time and took a seat next to the only friend you had managed to make while at university, Xinyan. She was a bit wild sometimes, but she never pressured you to be anything like her. She also happened to be friends with a certain white haired boy that you went to high school with, one who was currently sitting only a table away from you. However, you were still too scared to talk to him.

You had spotted Kazuha around campus a few times and had run into him once, literally. You had been turning a corner in a hurry, and you had slammed right into him. He had helped you up and apologized, even though he clearly wasn’t at fault. When you did get up and you were able to take in who you had bumped into, you were embarrassed to discover it was Kazuha. He looked like he always had, just older now and still just as pretty. He smelled the same too. You had gotten nervous and left in a hurry, but the interaction had stuck in your head ever since it had happened. I guess you were still interested in him...

You tried to focus on the class, but you were having trouble. There were still questions circulating around your head, and you were talking to Xinyan about them.

“I don’t know, I just feel like there’s so much I haven’t experienced, and I think I might be curious to try some things.”

“So would you want me to take you to a party or something? Wanna try drinking or smoking?”

“I… I don’t think I really want to do any of that.”

“Are you sure? You just afraid?”

“Maybe, I just don’t know if I would be comfy doing that stuff. It’s really bad for you, you know.”

She rolled her eyes.

“Eating oreos is bad for you, but does that stop anyone?”

“I think alcohol and oreos are a little bit different.”

“Pfft, nah. You’re crazy.”

The two of you laughed at that and turned your attention back to the lecture.

Kazuha's however was focused on what he’d just heard. You’d never drunk or done any drugs. You were completely pure. That makes sense though, considering how you had avoided him and anyone remotely like him like the plague in high school. He was sure you were a virgin too. He had never heard about you dating anyone, and given how protective your parents seemed, he was sure you hadn’t been allowed to, or something like that. It was really fascinating to him that you hadn’t rebelled at all. You had been away from your parents for almost a whole school year, and you were still doing everything they had told you to. He wondered if he could be the one to corrupt you, to taint your innocence. After all, he had been fascinated by you since high school.

The class ended, and everyone got up to leave. However, before you and Xinyan could go anywhere, you were stopped by Kazuha.

“Hey, you two.”

“Hey Kazuha, did you need something?”

“I just wanted to invite the two of you to a little party Tomo and I are having tonight.”

“Yeah, sure. That sounds fun. I don’t think this one is gonna come though.”

“Aw, why not?”

He was pouting slightly, making you feel kind of guilty for wanting to decline the invitation.

“I just don’t really do parties. I’m sorry.”

He laughed lightly.

“It’ll barely be a party, just a few people and some drinks.”

“I don’t know… I don't think it’s a good idea.”

“But-”

“She said she doesn’t want to go, okay?”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to sound pushy. Of course that’s fine.”

The gentle way he smiled and the way his eyes slightly crinkled made you believe him without a doubt. Of course he would never want to push you to do anything. Maybe it would be a good idea to have your first party be small and with someone safe like him…

“Actually, I think I’ll go.”

Xinyan raised her eyebrows at you.

“You know you don’t have to, right?”

“Yeah, I know. It’s just that… he’s right. If it’s barely going to be a party, then why shouldn’t I go?”

Xinyan looked concerned, but she relaxed her face.

“If you’re sure…”

“Wonderful! It’ll be Friday at my place for 9:00.”

“Pm?!”

They both turned to you smiling. God, Kazuha loved how fucking innocent you were.

“What time did you think it would start?”

“Uh, I don’t know… maybe 4 or 5?”

They both stifled their laughs.

“Then I guess I’ll see you both there.”

Kazuha walked out of the room, leaving the two of you alone.

“You know, you don’t have to come.”

“I know, but I want to go to a party eventually, and this seems like a good time to try.”

“Yeah, but-”

“You’ll take me with you on Friday right?”

“Yeah, okay.”

If you were going, then she would definitely be there for you from the time you headed over until the time you got home, even if it was supposed to be a little party.

~ ♡ ~

“So you’re up for it?”

“Yeah, sure. Why not?”

When Kazuha had gotten home, the first thing that he had done was ask his roommate if he was down to throw a little party so he could fuck a girl he had been interested in since high school. Luckily for Kazuha, Tomo was all for it.

“We haven’t done anything here for a while. That sounds fun.”

“Thanks. I owe you.”

“What’s she like anyway?”

Kazuha smiled thinking about you and how pure you were and how he was going to completely corrupt you.

“She’s very… good.”

“Good?”

“Yeah, she’s never drunk or smoked weed or even gone to a party.”

“Does that mean that she’s a virgin too?”

“I think so. It would make sense.”

“Fuck, that’s kinda hot. How’d you manage to get her to agree to come to the party?”

“I think she just trusts me. She only has one friend, and she’s friends with me, well, mostly friends.”

“Who?”

“Xinyan.”

Tomo threw his head back laughing.

“You know that girl does not trust you with the shit you’ve pulled with her friends.”

“I’ve been slowly winning her over.”

“Yeah, sure. You think she’s still gonna trust you when you ditch her good little friend?”

“I think I might actually stay with this one, at least for a little while.”

“Oooh, Kazuha’s in love~.”

“Well, I have to get her out of it enough to let me fuck her first, so I’ll let you know how that goes.”

“Godspeed man.”

Kazuha chucked and pulled out his phone, inviting some people to the party he was now planning for you.

~ ♡ ~

It was finally Friday, and you were running around your dorm getting ready for the impending party. It was 8:55pm, and Xinyan was going to be there in 5 minutes to pick you up. Apparently she normally arrived at parties later than they were set for to make sure people were there, but she gave in and agreed to head over at 9:00pm since you felt bad.

When you had mentioned to your roommates that you had been invited to a party, surprisingly enough, they all got really excited and helped you figure out what to wear. Apparently you were supposed to wear a pretty little dress and little heels as well. They had tried to take you shopping and they had found a little black dress they said was perfect, but they couldn’t quite convince you to wear it. It was too short and too low cut, and you just couldn’t feel comfortable in it. Eventually, they had agreed to figure something out with what you already had, and you had ended up in a white dress with little pink flowers that fell just above your knees as well as little flats. You had originally wanted to wear a little cardigan over it, but they had talked you out of it. It was going to be a warm spring evening, after all.

You were trying to smooth out a pesky strand of hair when you heard Xinyan knock on your door. You ran to open it for her, and she followed you around while you finished getting ready.

“So, are you excited?”

“I think I’m more nervous, but yeah, at least a little excited.”

“You know, you can still back out. You don’t have to go.”

“No, I already said I would go. I’m going.”

“Okay, fine. Are you planning on drinking or anything?”

“No, definitely not. I don’t want to do that.”

“I’ll assume that means you don’t plan on doing anything else either then?”

“I don’t. I just want to see what parties are like, okay?”

“Okay, let’s go then.”

The two of you headed out and hopped in the cab Xinyan had called.

The two of you arrived at Kazuha and Tomo’s apartment at about 9:20, since you had left a little late. You knocked on the door, and it opened to reveal Kazuha, who smelled even more like weed than when you last saw him, although you suppose it could just be the apartment.

“You two look lovely. Come on in.”

The compliment made you blush slightly. You never got compliments from guys, so who could blame you? Kazuha led the two of you into the living room where most of the people were gathered. There was music playing at a low volume flowing throughout the party. You could see smoke flowing from people’s mouths while others were sipping drinks.

“Almost everyone’s here now, so you don’t have to worry about the crowd getting much bigger.”

The two of you were about to sit down when Xinyan’s phone rang.

“Hello? I’m at a party, why? Oh shit. I’ll be right there.”

“Is everything okay?”

“No, one of my friends just had her boyfriend break up with her. I’m so sorry, I have to go. Do you want me to take you home? We can just go to a party another night.”

Kazuha leaned into you and put a hand around your shoulders.

“Don’t worry about her. I can babysit her for you.”

“Are you sure? It really is no trouble for me to take her home.”

“She wants to stay though, right?”

He looked at you with expectant eyes, and you found yourself agreeing with him.

“Yeah, I do. I can just stay with Kazuha. Don’t worry.”

Xinyan looked hesitant to leave you with him, but just then, her phone dinged again, another message from her friend.

“Okay, but if you need me, call me, okay? I’ll come get you as soon as I can.”

“She’ll be alright, don't worry. Don’t you trust me?”

The two of them stared at each other for a moment or two before Xinyan answered him.

“Just keep her out of trouble, and don’t let her drink or smoke or anything.”

“Mhm.”

She opened her mouth to say something, but her phone began to ring again. She took it and began to step away. As Xinyan left, Kazuha removed his arm from your shoulders and sat down in one of the two open spots on the couch. He patted the cushion next to him, and naturally, you sat down.

“You look beautiful tonight, love.”

“Oh, uh, thank you.” You looked at the ground. “You look nice too.”

He smiled at you. Kazuha honestly couldn’t believe his luck. He had been trying to figure out how he was going to get you away from Xinyan, but it looks like the universe was on his side tonight.

“So uh, what am I supposed to do?”

His smile widened. Oh, there were so many things you could do for him.

“Well, you’re supposed to talk, drink, smoke, and just feel good.”

“Oh, well I’m not going to smoke or drink at all.”

“Why not?”

“Well, it’s bad for you, and I just don’t understand why people would put that stuff in their bodies.”

Kazuha laughed lightly at what you had said.

“Your parents must be happy to know you’re doing everything they say, even when they aren’t around. It’s sweet. It’s like you’re a little kid.”

What? You aren’t a little kid. You're an adult now, right? Were you really still just doing what your parents wanted? Was it so bad if you were? He certainly made it feel bad…

A joint and a lighter appeared in Kazuha’s hand while you were tied up in your own thoughts, and just like that, he was smoking. You really didn’t like the smell, but you would be lying if you said you didn’t feel like you had something to prove. You aren’t a little kid who just does what her parents tell her, but did you really want to put that stuff in your body…?

Kazuha took a hit before turning his head to face you and blowing the smoke in your face. Your face scrunched up at the smell, and he laughed at your reaction.

“Sorry, I’m sure your parents don’t want you smelling like smoke either.”

That was it. You didn’t care if it was bad. You were going to try it and prove that you were as grown up as everyone else here.

“Do you think I could maybe try it…?”

Kazuha pouted at you.

“But I thought you didn’t want to smoke?”

“Uh well, I mean, if I just do it once, it’s not that bad, right?”

His pout morphed into a smile.

“Why don’t you try drinking a little first, mkay?”

“But isn’t it bad to drink and smoke?”

“No, not at all.”

“Are you sure…?”

“Come on. I wouldn’t lie to you, would I?”

“No, I’m sorry. But I don’t know if I should drink…”

“Don’t worry about it, baby. Come on, let’s go get you a drink.”

You blushed at the name and followed behind him as he stood up and led you to the kitchen. He reached into the fridge and pulled out some fruity cooler that looked like it was supposed to be strawberry flavoured. Kazuha handed you the drink and led you back to the couch.

The two of you talked while you sipped your drink and kazuha smoked. By the time you were done with your first one, you felt kind of fuzzy and a little bit out of it, but Kazuha was quick to put another drink in your hand.

You two kept talking and catching up until you had once again finished your drink. You liked how the drinks tasted. There was a slightly odd taste to them, but you didn’t mind it. You felt relaxed and kinda funny. Kazuha was making you feel quite comfortable, so when he told you to come straddle his lap, you almost did it without question.

“But… I’m wearing a dress I can’t.”

“I thought you wanted to smoke, love? Or are you just going to keep listening to your parents?”

He pouted as he waited for an answer.

“I guess I do, but do I have to sit in your lap?”

“Of course you do. Why would I lie to you?”

You considered his words and decided that he was right. You trusted him, so you stood up and sat back down, straddling his lap. You could feel your dress get pushed up your thighs as you got comfortable, and you tried your best to ignore it. Kazuha rested a hand on your hip and brought the joint to your mouth. You closed your lips around it and inhaled the smoke. Kazuha pulled it away after a moment so you could exhale, and as you did you started coughing. You really were not used to having smoke in your lungs. Kazuha had noticed the little bit of your lip gloss that had gotten on the joint, and he couldn’t help but imagine how your lipgloss would look smudged on his cock.

You stayed there until the two of you had finished the joint, although you had practically finished it on your own. When you were done, he gave you another drink, and naturally, you began to drink it. You felt so out of it. Your thoughts were moving so slowly that you could barely form a sentence, so when he told you he needed to take you to his room for something, your thoughts weren’t moving fast enough to understand that something was wrong. He pulled you through the apartment by your hand, and you followed him like a lost puppy, still sipping the drink he had handed you. Eventually, the two of you crossed the threshold into his room, and he closed the door behind you. Kazuha took the can from your hand and placed it on some surface in the room.

“Get on the bed.”

You didn’t think much of the order and just did what you were told, wanting to make him happy and frankly being tired of standing. The bed was firm, almost surprisingly so, and you sat on the edge, not sure what would happen next. Kazuha pushed your chest down so you were laying on your back. You stared up at the ceiling as you heard the sound of clothes coming off. You felt your legs get lifted and your body was spun so you were laying properly on the bed. Kazuha climbed on top of you and stared down at you. You looked so perfect to him. Your hair was spread out on the bed, and you stared up at him with complete trust. He leaned in and started kissing you, and surprisingly, you really didn’t mind it. His lips were warm and inviting, and in your state, you didn’t stop to think that you might not be doing this sober. He continued to kiss you as he started to slide a hand up your side, slowly traveling to cup your breast. As he touched you, he realized that you weren’t wearing a bra under your dress, how (titular…hehe) convenient.

He pulled away from you so he could watch your face as he thumbed at your nipples over your dress. Although you were sluggish and couldn’t really form words, you let out a little whine, and shifted around a bit. Kazuha leaned down and licked the fabric over your nipples, eliciting a little gasp from you. He continued playing with your tits until he got bored and tried to start sliding your dress off of you. You felt his hands start to slide up your thighs, moving your dress along with them. Of course, you noticed this, and you moved your hands to try and stop him. You whined something incomprehensible and batted at his hands, trying to wiggle the skirt of your dress back down. You didn’t like how cold the air was… . Of course, Kazuha’s hands didn’t stop. He was much stronger than you, and really, it wasn’t hard to ignore your weak attempts at fighting him.

“Shhhh shhhh, it’s okay. It’s okay.”

His reassurance was enough to make you give up on your fight as he slid your dress up and off of your body. Your body felt heavy, and it was a lot easier to listen to him than it was to try and stop him, even if it was cold… . With your dress now off, Kazuha drank you in. You were so pretty, your little hands trying to cover your boobs, and your cute little pink cotton panties that had a little pink bow on the band. Kazuha let a hand wander between your thighs. He pressed down where he thought your clit would be and started making little circles, causing you to start squirming. You used all of your remaining strength to lift your arms, trying to pull at his wrist and make the weird feeling go away. You mumbled something as you tried to pull at his hand to no avail.

“No, no, baby. You’re alright.”

You tried to protest, but it only came out as a mumble, which was easily ignored. Kazuha grabbed your wrists in one hand and pushed them into the bed, holding them above your head. He started pulling at the waistband of your panties until they slid past your ankles. You tried to roll over to feel less exposed, but once again you were stopped, this time by a hand on your stomach.

“No, princess. You’re not going anywhere, okay?”

You mumbled something again, but it was ignored, again. Kazuha pushed your knees up to your shoulders and leaned his head down between your legs. He might as well show you everything if he was going to be your first. He flattened his tongue against your pussy and licked a stripe up it, causing a whine to make its way out of your mouth. Fuck, you tasted so good. He closed his lips around your clit and sucked, reveling in the satisfaction that he was the first person to make you feel this way. After a little while, your whines were no longer enough to keep him entertained, and he pushed his fingers into your mouth, pushing them back and forth until he was satisfied. His fingers now wet, he pushed them inside of you, and when he heard you whine out, “Too big…hurts,” he couldn’t help the groan that pushed its way out of his throat. If you thought that his fingers were big, he couldn’t wait to see how you would react to his cock splitting you open.

Kazuha pushed a third finger into you and was met with more whining from you.

“Shhh, shhhh, my love. I already told you, it’s okay.”

He did his best to stretch you out so that you would be ready for him. He didn’t want to hurt you too badly, after all. After a little longer, he figured he had prepped you enough, and he removed his fingers from inside of you, wiping them off on his cock. He spit in his hand and used it to lube up his cock just a little more. Kazuha readjusted himself and lined himself up with your hole. He started pushing inside, and you couldn’t help but yelp a little bit as you felt his head pop into your hole and stretch you far more than his fingers had. He groaned again as he felt your warm insides starting to encompass his dick. To prevent anyone coming in to check on any questionable sounds, Kazuha covered your mouth with a hand before he pushed the rest of his cock inside of you in a single stroke. This time, you let out a little scream at the sudden pain of him going all the way in so fast. However, thankfully for him, your scream was significantly muffled by his hand covering your mouth. The groan that he emitted when he pushed all of the way inside of you was ringing in your ears. It made you blush, and you could feel yourself tighten around his cock a bit.

Kazuha began thrusting in and out of you, hard and fast. He let go of your wrists, but your arms stayed put. You were already tired, and the way he was fucking you was only ridding you of more energy, if that was even possible. However, you did still have the energy to moan and whine. Kazuha was making you feel so good. You had never felt this way before. You had always been too afraid to even touch yourself, so everything you were feeling was completely new.

You were starting to feel a little funny, and everything began growing more and more intense. Kazuha had started to play with your clit, and with that, you were about to cum. However, all that you could process was the growing overload of good feelings where your body and Kazuha’s met. It felt like a knot that was about to snap, and suddenly, it did. You could feel your muscles tense up, and you were seeing stars. You let out a moan that was probably a little too loud, but neither you nor Kazuha really cared, since Kazuha was being pushed over the edge by the way you were pulsing and squeezing around him.

“Fuck, baby, you feel so fucking good. I’m gonna fill you up, gonna show you how it feels to be dripping with my cum.”

And with that declaration, he was cumming, filling you up, just like he said he would. You were about ready to fall asleep and assumed everything was over now. However, when you felt Kazuha start to move again, you realized things were quite far from over.

“Come on, baby. Gotta make sure your first time is so good. Gotta fuck you all night, okay?”

And with that, you felt yourself completely relax, having no more energy left in your body. This was going to be a long night.

~ ♡ ~

You woke up with heavy eyelids, a splitting headache, and a sore body. You weren’t entirely sure where you were at first, but eventually, things started coming back to you. Oh god, had you really gotten that drunk last night? And had you really lost your virginity to Kazuha…?

As your thoughts ran, Kazuha walked into the room with two plates of pancakes wearing just a pair of grey sweatpants with his hair tied back in a bun. When you heard him walk in, you suddenly became very aware of how naked you were and tried to hide further under the blankets.

“Oh, come on. You have nothing to hide. I saw everything last night.”

He smiled so sweetly, and you couldn’t help but feel stupid for trying to hide from him. He walked over to you and sat down on the bed, handing you one of the plates of pancakes.

“Did you make me pancakes…?”

“Well, I made us pancakes, and I definitely didn’t make them from scratch, so no need to be impressed.”

“Thank you…”

He pouted at your lack of enthusiasm.

“What’s wrong, princess?”

You looked at the blanket, blushing and trying to formulate your sentence.

“I… I just don’t know how to feel about what happened last night…”

He pouted again.

“But you seemed to like it so much.”

“I mean, I guess I did. I just… I don’t know… I just wish I had done that with my boyfriend or something…”

“Oh, so you do have a boyfriend, hmm?”

“No, no, I don’t! I just would have rather done that with someone I was in a relationship with…”

“Well, if you’re single, why don’t you just date me?”

“Date you?!”

“Is it really such a terrible idea?”

He looked positively dejected.

“No, It’s just… I didn’t think you would ever want to date me…”

“Awww, baby, of course I wanna date you.”

“Really…?”

“I made you pancakes, didn’t I?”

He smiled at you goofily.

“I just didn’t think you’d want to date someone like me. I’m not a lot of fun, you know…”

That made him roll his eyes.

“Well, last night, you proved just how fun you really are.”

Kazuha really wasn’t lying. He was absolutely crazy about you at this point. Hell, he even made you pancakes. He enjoyed the way you stared at him with a mix of curiosity and apprehension, clearly not used to how different from you he was. And he couldn’t deny that he was absolutely hooked on your pussy…but that’s not important. But anyway, for once, he wasn’t just trying to get in your pants…even if he was still technically trying to get in your pants.

Before you could respond to him, your phone started to ring. It was Xinyan. She was calling to make sure that you had gotten home safe from the party, but when you told her that you were still at Kazuha’s, she immediately hung up on you. However, after only a few seconds Kazuha’s phone began to ring, Xinyan, again. The second he answered it, you could hear shouting coming from the other end. You couldn’t make out a lot, but you were able to make out a few things like, “FUCKING MANWHORE!�� and, “IF YOU HURT ANOTHER ONE OF MY FUCKING FRIENDS!” After a few minutes of Xinyan getting her anger out on him, he eventually just gave up and hung up. She tried to get him to answer a few more times before trying to call you again. But before you could answer, Kazuha took your phone and put it out of your reach.

“Enough of her right now. You need to eat your pancakes before they get cold.”

“Yes, sir!”

“Mmm, if you wanna say that again, I wouldn’t be opposed.”

You blushed and started cutting your pancakes.

“Sorry, babe. Didn’t mean to fluster you.”

Kazuha leaned over and gave you a little peck on the lips before cutting into his own pancakes with a smile. He was looking forward to actually having a girlfriend of his own, even if he was going to annoy Tomo with all of his rather unfortunately descriptive poetry about you.

Tag List: @lilia-sspouse @but-a-peach @stannazuna @izzalovesdilfs @lordbugs @randomlycockroach @licensedsimp @leena-shi @cesimaaa @welpthisisfine @dainself-when-playable @fic-rebloga @bubblyxdolly @wanderin-stories @iwysbellez @k4ze3e @kenmabfasf @vvyeislazzy @nerdiel-has-no-braincells @hopeless-smvt

[lestappenforever]

Hello hello again! I am very honoured to be called social-psychological anon 🥹 I’m very happy people liked the last ask because I’m such an over thinker on things like this and love having to put my thoughts into words especially about lestappen because there is just so much to be said! I wanted to drop a couple of thoughts because I couldn’t help but be inspired by the absolute FEAST we had just now, but first I want to add some context for those thoughts:

I think why Max stands out so much in lestappen interactions is once more because of approval seeking and in particular because of how obviously he yearns for it from Charles and that, sadly likely has a lot to do with his upbringing. (Small side note: I always am super careful when speaking about these things because after all these are real people and we are privy to many of their personal experiences and these “analysis” and references are always done with the greatest respect)

I myself was in a similar situation to Max in the sense that I was also in a very competitive athletic environment when I was growing up and I can say from personal experience that that situation literally alters your brain chemistry especially when you have parents that are very overbearing and are like backseat drivers in what is supposed to be your own pursuit. Max has said himself about how much his fathers approval meant to him but over the years and exposure to more people and more invested parties has led to a broadening of the spectrum from whom he seeks that approval; now it is most likely from Christian, Helmut, at one point Seb who he really respects and of course Charles. The point being that Max is much more obvious about seeking approval because that is synonymous with reward and when your developmental years are forged by a balance of competition and reward- approval, appreciation and praise become very important especially coming from people you have placed in special positions (how I previously mentioned Charles and Max carving out of special positions for one another).

Now Brazil has thus far provided us with plenty of “giggling blushing kicking his feet golden retriever vibes” Max but for me one of the standouts was when Max, mic in hand, was ignoring the interview in favour of talking to Charles before finally turning and giving a bashful laugh and actually starting the interview.

The way I see it, he isn’t giggling because he has been caught out or anything else, he is giggling literally because he is so happy that Charles is reciprocating his energy which is obviously a form of approval and he wants to continue the conversation even at the expense of the interview because he is afraid that if they stop, Charles will go off and speak with someone else and he will be left sulking. This plays into the jealousy of Charles’ attention being with another driver at a time that is supposed to be Max/Charles time (which is post-race because they don’t interact that much outside of that meaning that emotions and reactions and eagerness to please is much higher at these points) It also puts into perspective Max’s staring at Charles during his interview because Max is literally laser focused waiting for Charles to finish and wanting to immediately catch his eye so Charles can’t be distracted by someone else.

Another minor detail of him saying “Charles and I discussed” and then “our last laps” is part of a bigger thing I will defo talk about at some point which is performative relationships. Max has a tendency to perform (that is to highlight) his interactions with Charles. He has done this numerous times- especially recently- by ignoring interview questions, bringing up the “inchident”, coming up to Charles during his interview and starting a whole debrief session (Bahrain), in Monaco where he was walking behind Charles but sped up to catch up to him and start a conversation by complimenting his suit when he was very aware of cameras following and also in Monaco having a super awkward- no less sweet because Max was really trying to find something to say but it was just borderline stuttering 🥹- interaction about weather but also done specifically for filming purposes. Psychologically people advertise their relationships whether they be romantic, friendships or work-related to make themselves feel closer to the other person by creating an association in other peoples minds of the two of them.

This is on brand with Max’s unfaltering and unfailing insistence of Charles being his rival even when the Ferrari tractor puts a stop to that dynamic because in Max’s mind it is always them and he wants everyone else to see that. Which is also why I am 100% sure that generally Max LOVES that Charles is his rival and that is also because of how different the lestappen brand of rivalry is as opposed to for example Lewis and Max. It’s a longer topic but I really think that Max sees Charles as an extension of his F1 and racing identity especially because of their shared history and how they seem to be likely to have a similar dynamic to Senna and Prost (without the pre-Prost retirement ugliness because I think they have a very different view of one another) ie, how Senna was obsessed with Prost and vice versa and how after Prost retired Senna just lost his spirit because of how interconnected their identity became with their career and their career with their rivalry. I think Max wants his relationship with Charles to be how Prost described it: “no one can talk about Aryton (Charles) without mentioning my name, and no one can talk about me without mentioning his”.

I will defo be popping in intermittently with other thoughts but for now I hope everyone is having a great weekend - and praying we will continue to be fed 🫶✨

Social-psychological anon has returned with more incredible Lestappen insights and my jaw is quite honestly on the floor.

Social-psychological anon, I don't even have anything to add to this because your words are such a wonderful, true statement on their own and I am actually in awe of you and this ask. Thank you so, so much for sharing your thoughts, and please don't ever stop doing so.

I love you and this and every single thought in that beautiful mind of yours. ❤️

[darklinaforever]

What do you think about the fact that Aegon was shown to be a rather loving father and kind king in the first episode?

From what little I've seen, he just seems interested in his son because... well he's a son. Nothing more. Not to mention being his heir.

He seems to not care enough about his daughter.

And this even if fans of Aegon II try to exaggerate his gesture like "oh it's so cute he checks his daughter without touching her so as not to disturb her, and probably also because she doesn't like touching him like his mother", whereas... he just checked if it was his son because he can't tell the difference seeing his daughter from behind (although she has a pretty specific hairstyle that might help his guess...).

Also I've seen a lot of defender Aegon II in mode, no one can be sure whose back child is, but the fact is that he didn't pay any attention to the girl when he saw that it was a girl (and also... believe me, I have seen mothers with their children among other children who looked like theirs and even from behind they could generally recognize them... even if they are girl and a boy twins).

And others actually say that "oh it's adorable Aegon II is able to tell the difference between his children !!!" Once he saw the kid face to face ? Because once again, he quickly checked which of the two children it was ? So how is he capable of making a real difference between his son and his daughter if he has to see them face to face to do that ? You know, most parents know how to differentiate their children from the front, even if they are twins... What it so like it's some kind of feat for some people ? WTF ?

Then like I said, once he saw that it wasn't his son, he didn't really seem care about this kid.

(And people still try to say that this scene and the one with the boy is proof of Aegon II being a real good father to Daemon... Daemon who at least showed interest in his daughters by learning the high Valyrian to Baela, saying that Pentos was his and his /children - so his daughters' - home, and that he collapsed on the beach when baby Visenya died, not to mention that he was visibly excited by the birth of his children, whether with Laena or Rhaenyra. That he actively defends his step sons alongside Rhaenyra. And that in addition to seeming proud to present Aegon III and Viserys II, he had a real gesture of affection for Viserys II, running his hand through his hair and trying to console him when he cried, but hey... I guess it's all worth absolutely nothing !)

And besides, he doesn't even know where his son is now. Like his son is having lessons and he doesn't even know it ? WTF ?

Not to mention the looks the servants give each other when Aegon II is there ? They are clearly afraid of him ?

So basically what this scene shows is that Aegon II can't tell the difference between his son and daughter from behind, even though they have relatively different hairstyles.

That once he realizes that it is not his son once he has seen her face he shows no interest in his daughter and is only interested in his son, of whom he ultimately does not even know not only the latter has lessons, things that are nevertheless elementary.

(Besides, people who think it's a great sign of love that Aegon II can tell the difference between twins may simply not think it's because he's so much more interested by the boy that he can actually tell him apart from the girl from the front ?)

He doesn't understand Helaena, and the maids are obviously afraid of him !

Oh yes, what a wonderful father, brother / husband (I also remember that he said Helaena was an idiot in season 1) and individual !

So sorry, but the whole nonsense that Aegon II is a loving father will still be bullshit to me.

He's clearly still the same disgusting person in my eyes and that won't change.

As a reminder that Alicent has plenty of moments where she seems / or try to be tender with her children, and that doesn't stop her from being a horrible and hypocritical mother to them. (While for Daemon, I remind you that we have no canonical proof in the show that he is really a bad father. On the contrary he seems completely correct, despite Rhaena's words, and all the cut scenes or the script original supports this, and so the word of Laena about Daemon trying to do his best. Aegon II and Alicent, on the other hand, in addition to their canonically horrible behavior towards their children unlike Daemon who does not have this kind of behavior, well they have nothing positive in relation to the relationship they have with their children add in the scrips to counterbalance all this for example...)

Sorry not sorry.

And as for being a kind king, I haven't seen the whole episode yet, just parts for now. I'm waiting to finally see it in full before giving a real opinion on it (if I have the courage... because normally I had planned to wait until the end of season 2 to watch the episodes in full). But I'm willing to bet I won't feel that way either.

[sonofatoasterwaffle]

Port in a Storm

“Hey, Buck, could you-“ Hen's hitting the top step when he hisses back “Shh!” 

She glances at Chimney for a sanity check, considering cuffing the back of Buck’s head for that, but he’s sitting on the couch, stock still, Eddie snoring gently against Buck’s shoulder. “Can’t move.” He explains.

Hen has to chuckle. “He’s not a cat, buck” 

She drops into the armchair closest to him, and he stops scrolling his phone with his free hand to look at her. “If I’m a golden retriever, Eddie is most definitely a cat.”

Chim nods like he can’t argue as he takes the seat across from them. “Hates attention except when he doesn’t, very protective over his young, great hair.” He counts off each thing as he says it. 

Hen supposes she doesn’t disagree. “He’s not sleeping at home right now, is he?” 

Buck sighs. “Based on the twitter links he’s been sending in the middle of the night, it seems like no.” 

Eddie, for his part, seems well and truly out. He’s sprawled low on the couch, boots bumping up against the coffee table, head lolled to the right against Buck and his arm slung over Buck’s leg, fingers curled under Buck’s knee like he’s afraid his human pillow might abandon him. “Has he been like this since I went to run flashcards?” 

“I literally can’t feel my arm.” Buck admits, but it doesn’t sound like he has any intention of moving. 

“You gotta feel for the guy.” Chim says, biting into a muffin from a batch someone left earlier this week. “Kid at home, dealing with grief, dealing with us.” 

Hen hums. At least he’s not alone, she thinks, catching the soft look in Buck’s eyes as he glances down at Eddie. She’s not sure if those two will ever realize what they have, but she supposes it doesn’t really matter as long as they don’t give it up. “So, you can’t help me move the medical supplies shipment.” 

“Performing a public service, here, Hen.” 

Chim snickers something about exactly what kind of servicing Buck would like to do for Eddie, but he’s resolutely ignored. Hen supposes Buck’s right. High-strung Eddie is annoying and sleep-deprived Eddie is pathetic and both at once makes her parenting instincts flare up like crazy, so it’s better for all of them if he gets a little rest. Even at the expense of Buck’s circulation. 

Eddie murmurs something in Spanish, nuzzles his nose into Buck’s neck and breathes deep. Buck’s as red as the ladder truck but he still doesn’t move, except to flip Chim off. “Leave him alone.” 

Chim throws up his hands, still grinning. “Easy, loverboy, I’m not coming for your man.” 

And Buck looks absolutely murderous but he’s powerless to stop Chimney from snapping a picture. He does leave the finger up for it. “I could easily throw you.” He threatens when his phone chimes with the inevitable group chat notification. 

“But Maddie would be so sad if you murdered me.” 

“Yeah, maybe you should think about that before doing murder-worthy shit.” 

Eddie stirs a little, and Buck relaxes back into the couch, free hand reaching over to thumb over Eddie's arm, and he immediately settles. “You guys are so gross I love it.” Chim crows, snapping another photo. 

“At some point, he’s gonna wake up, and then you’re gonna have to start running.” 

Hen goes back to her flashcards. Chim’s on his own with that one, she’s not taking the bullet for teasing she didn’t get to do. She gives Buck a sympathetic smile when he grouses “I’m never gonna hear the end of this, am I?” 

“Price you pay for being such a good best friend.” 

Buck rolls his eyes at her intoned best friend. “You’re on my list, too.” 

“Finally.” Bobby says in relief when he sweeps into the kitchen to start prep. "I was about to cut him loose if he didn't chill out." He points at Buck. “Don’t move.” 

“That’s what I said!” 

Also on ao3

[ourloveisforthelovely]

Make Something Good from Something Bad

Summary: Orion Black has died. Now it's time for Regulus to take his place as the head of the family.

Pairings: Regulus Black x Reader 

Rating: T

______

You stood outside of Walburga’s sitting room looking down at your feet. A temporary darkness had fallen over the household and left everyone in a state of confusion. What had started as a peaceful morning turned into a nightmare when you received a telegram stating that Orion Black had died.

When the telegram arrived via owl, you hated waking Regulus up. While he needed to know, you didn’t want to be the one to let your husband in on the disaster at hand. You wanted to protect him as long as you could but you knew that you couldn’t wait long. Protecting Regulus was your reason for everything. You knew that he wouldn’t be a bit sad over the loss of his father. Their relationship was horribly toxic and abusive. The pair hadn’t even said a word to the other in at least six months.

After your wedding and some time in a “sane and loving” household, Regulus truly began to see how bad off his family was. He broke off a lot of contact with his parents unless he absolutely had to. When he did have to contact his parents, it was Walburga…and she was enough!

The two of you had cultivated a happy and quaint life on the opposite side of London. Everything was going wonderfully…until today. Now…you were afraid to think of how everything would be. Orion’s death meant that Regulus was now head of the Black family. Did that mean that the two of you would have to live in Grimmauld Place? You certainly hoped not. You had never told Regulus but Grimmauld Place gave you the creeps. There were too many dark corners and it was always too cold.

You also worried that being back in Grimmauld Place for any length of time would cause Regulus to retreat back to the cold shell that he had made for himself. You had grown up with Regulus being dark and grumpy. Once the two of you married and moved away, you saw another side of Regulus. He smiled more and his sense of humor reminded you a lot of Sirius. Seeing your love come alive was all that you could possibly want

…please don’t let it be ruined.

You silently prayed as the sitting room door opened. Walburga walked out with Evan behind her. Your mother-in-law gave you a cold frown before stomping down the hallway to her bedroom. Shaking your head, your eyes rolled up to meet your brother’s face. Evan gave you a wink before leaning close.

“I gave the piranha a sleeping pill. You won’t be hearing from her for some time. You’re welcome.”

You smirked. Yet again, Evan proved that you could always count on your older brother.

“Piranha, huh? Very fitting comparison.”

Evan was clearly pleased with himself. He smiled before his face became serious.

“Reg needs you. You are all that he wants.”

Evan patted your shoulder before going off in search of a drink. After a day like today…he needed booze.

You waited a few seconds before going into the sitting room and closing the door. Regulus sat looking out the window with a frown on his face. You didn’t move to say anything or go to him too quickly but stood silently watching him.

My poor darling…

You thought looking at him. Regulus looked exactly as he had an hour or so ago when Walburga shut the sitting room door to exclude you from the conversation. Forget that you were Regulus’ wife and a member of the family now. Walburga hated you and she would make sure that you knew it. piranha

The old bitch really will get what is coming to her once Regulus takes things over. If he doesn’t lock her in a home someplace with other mentally deranged adults I will totally be surprised.

You thought as your attention turned back to Regulus. Even in the face of turmoil, you couldn’t help but fall deeper in love with him. Everything about Regulus was perfect. From the way, not a curl was messy or out of place, to his perfect posture, to his perfect jawline down to his hands. He sat toying with one of the rings on his left hand as his grey eyes looked out the window, not a word being said.

“They’re gone.”

You commented finally. Regulus didn’t say anything as you approached him carefully. You breathed in his expensive-smelling cologne before he turned to look at you. Regulus was exhausted and you could clearly see it.

“Good. Those two know how to suck the life force right out of you.”

Regulus hated being this moody, especially to you. You deserved nothing negative, in Regulus’ mind. After all, you were the one that saved him. You had singlehandedly saved him from the disaster known as his family. Now, unfortunately, the two of you were being thrown right back into it.

Being thrown back into it…

That was the LAST thing that Regulus wanted. He was completely happy with life away from his family. Being in a loving home was what he wanted to spend the rest of his life in…to raise his own family…not be back into the seventh layer of hell.

“I’m sorry, Y/n.”

Regulus didn’t see the confusion on your face. Now that he was the head of his family, he was afraid that you would leave him. He was afraid that with you knowing his family’s history, you would have enough. It wouldn’t matter if Regulus would protect you from Walburga. Eventually, you would have enough and want someone else.

You, meanwhile, moved to sit on Regulus’ lap. Reaching out, you tucked a curl behind his ear before leaning in for a kiss.

“Why are you apologizing?”

Regulus sighed. He took your hand in his and brought it to his lips. Nuzzling his face into your skin, he closed his eyes savoring the moment. This one peaceful moment could get him through the upcoming circus of days.

“Because I am dragging you back into this bullshit. It's only a matter of time before you are tired of it and leave.”

Your mouth dropped.

“Regulus, it will take a lot more than your devil of a mother to scare me away from you. I’m your wife. I love you. I also know that you will never let your mother treat me badly. When I married you, I took a promise for better and for worse…this is our for worse but surely we can make something good of it.”

Regulus leaned back in the chair feeling somewhat better. He reached out and stroked a hand over your cheek. You really were something...and he would never let you go.

“Yes…we can make something good of it.”

______

@amelie-black @jessyballet @knreidy1 @georgeweasleydumbhoe @justfinishthis @acciosiriusblack @siriuslyceleste @mimisparkle12 @teletubiswszpilkach @darkenwolfie @ell0ra-br3kk3r @stelleduarte @millies0bsimp @coffeeaddictednymph @rogue-nyx88 @readtomeregulus @starsval @daddyslittlevillain @panpride @saramaple @missgorldafirst @taylor-will-be-the-death-of-me @f4iryluvy @s-we-e-t-t-ea @i-love-scott-mccall @gugggu6gvai @jag9000 @quinis @padf00ts-l0ver @goldensunshineshit @haroldpotterson @aurorasnape12 @ad-astra-again @dumybitch @mentally-unstable-hoe @yousmellllikecaca @lostarc24 @play-morezeppelin @ravenhood2792 @un-lovesherself @rubyroscoe1 @spideyxalmighty @lucasfilms77 @melaninnbarbie @criminalyetminimal @brokencasbutt67-writer @authoressskr @moldy-old-boot @hankypranky @summer-novak @emiwrites3reads @shaylybaby2032 @untoldshortsofthefandoms @deanwherescas @sprnaturallover @wontlookaway @shitfaceddaniel-blog @knight-of-gleefulness @li0nh34rt @tas898 @mycuddlycorner @marichromatic @mycuddlycorner

[noyzinerd]

Teen Wolf Leather Jacket Lore

(As told from a snippet from my Sterek WIP, "Pseudology")

------

"Back in the old, old, old days, werewolf parents used to wrap their children in pelts and fur blankets when they felt threatened. It worked a lot like how weighted blankets nowadays provide a number of mental health benefits, like reducing stress or promoting better sleep. The heaviness simulates a feeling of being held, which can subconsciously ease your mind.

"Pelts, however, also had the addition of smelling like animal hide and the fur would feel almost like curling up against a mother wolf's body, back when fully shifted wolves were a more common occurrence. The combination of warmth and weight and softness and the smell of food, the smell of being provided for, helped to create a sense of safety for them.

"Nowadays, a werewolf can't just walk through the streets wrapped in a big, fur pelt unless he wants to draw a lot of attention. So, a leather jacket is the modern interpretation of that. Leather is one of the few clothing materials made of animal hide. Under all of the smells of bleaches and dyes and preserving chemicals, the faint smell of prey can still be picked up. Especially if the coat is old and the protective layer is chaffed off, releasing the hide smell. And the heavy weight of the jacket on a wolf's shoulders subconsciously feels like being wrapped in someone's arms. A leather jacket to a werewolf is like a weighted blanket to a human. It comforts them when they feel vulnerable and helps them feel safe." Derek paused for a bit to allow Stiles to fully comprehend all of the information laid before him. He had considered adding in an example of how there were compression vests out there meant to keep dogs calm during thunderstorms, but ultimately decided against it. It wouldn't do to give Stiles anymore ammunition to make dog jokes.

Once the spark of understanding was clear in those whiskey eyes, Derek continued. "Stiles...do you remember what had been going on in my life the first time you saw me in my coat?"

"Your...your sister had just been murdered."

"Mm," Derek hummed in agreement. It had taken a long time for him to finally talk about what had happened to Laura without sounding horribly broken up about it anymore. Not indifferent or uncaring, just more accepting. "I had lost the last person I had ever felt close to in this world. I hadn't known about Cora yet and I didn't have any other friends or family. The jacket was a coping mechanism."

Stiles nodded, digesting the information in stride as the conversation began filling in all of the burning knowledge gaps that had probably been haunting him for years by now. "And the jackets on Erica, Isaac, and Boyd?" The boy wasted no time moving through what was undoubtedly a checklist of questions in his head, almost as if he were afraid he might forget something if he didn't get through them fast enough.

"Becoming a werewolf for the first time can be stressful," Derek said, easily indulging Stiles' curiosity, "All of your senses are heightened to a point bordering on pain, sounds that used to be imperceptible can sound as loud as gunshots, all your bones ache, and your skin feels like it's on fire. At times, it can literally feel like you're dying. I bought them those jackets because I figured it would help to ease their transitions. I never explained the reasoning behind the jackets to any of them and I never forced anyone to wear them. They never seemed to want to take them off, though, so I think it soothed them, even if they didn't actually understand why."

"That's...that's actually really sweet of you, big guy. I didn't know you were such a softie. You're like some kind of-of...you're like a cuddly Teddywolf!" Stiles was absolutely tickled pink at the name.

Shit. This was worse than Sourwolf. Way worse.

"Wait, hold on. Back at the hospital, when we were trying to find the alpha," oh, thank god for Stiles' short attention span, "wasn't Peter also wearing a leather coat?" Goddamn Stiles' attention to detail! "No, it wasn't a coat. I mean, okay, it was a coat, but it wasn't a jacket, if that makes sense? It was longer than a jacket. Like, it was closer to the floor. It was more like a leather, um, like-like a, uh... a leather…" Stiles' hand was waving insistently by his face as he struggled to find the description he was looking for.

Derek sighed heavily in defeat.

"A duster," he murmured reluctantly, taking pity on the stuttering mess Stiles had become. If he had let this go any further, Stiles was going to have a conniption.

"Yes, a duster! Exactly! Thank you! Peter was wearing a leather duster that time at the hospital. But he had been comatose for years before then, hadn't he? Since the fire? It wouldn't have made sense for him to have the coat with him before he even knew the fire was going to happen."

Well, it couldn't be helped.

And Derek had actually been hoping that he could've gotten away with his misplaced good deed after all this time, too. "I was the one who got it for him. I thought it would help him heal. Maybe give him a little bit of comfort after suffering something so traumatic."

Stiles' whirling mind seemed to hit the brakes a little at that. Derek couldn't really blame him. As far as he knew, the only impression Stiles had ever gotten about the relationship between Peter and Derek had been tumultuous at best. For Derek to get Peter a coat, now knowing the significance of what wearing a leather coat meant to a werewolf, it was easy to see how that might be unusual.

"I had gotten it for him right before Laura and I left for New York. Before I knew he was a murderous psychopath, willing to kill his own family and innocent kids for power and revenge. If I had known back then what he would become, I would have lined the seams with wolfsbane and filled all the pockets with mountain ash."

Stiles let out a sudden bark of laughter, quickly covering his mouth to stifle his outburst. The laugh managed to take Derek by surprise.

"Sorry, sorry! I didn’t mean to laugh! I just would have loved to have seen that."

That sweet little smile at Peter's expense made his heart thump heavily in his chest. Was it normal to be so fond of someone for also wanting to see his uncle suffer?

Derek couldn't help the small, affectionate quirk to the side of his mouth at Stiles' enjoyment. The cute mole just at the corner of the boy's upper lip danced as he laughed, the sound carrying high and airy like wind chimes.

Derek made sure Stiles could only catch the briefest glimpse of his grin, just enough to know that Derek was fine with him laughing, before quickly turning away. Derek couldn't risk maintaining eye contact for too long. No, Stiles was too damn perceptive for that.

"So, why did you stop wearing it?"

"One day, I realized I didn't need it anymore. I think it was around the time I tried making my own pack. I think it was maybe because I didn't feel weak and vulnerable when I was surrounded by them. I found myself only needing my jacket when they were at school and I was left on my own. I was still making really bad decisions after that, getting into unhealthy relationships, and what had happened to Boyd and Erica weighed on me a lot, but it didn't feel like I could break at any moment anymore. For the first time in years, I felt like I had people I could turn to. Even when I pushed Isaac away, when I ran away to South America, when it became so hard to trust anyone anymore, I never felt truly alone. There would always be someone I could turn to if I ever got in any trouble. The more people I connected with, the less I needed it to make me feel safe. I felt protected. Over time, as I started to get my life back together, I found that I no longer needed other people to feel strong."

Stiles' eyes softened fondly at that as he said lightly, "I'm glad, big guy." There was so much sincerity and conviction in those four words that the werewolf could feel radiating rays of sunlight blooming beneath his ribcage.

Before the warmth in Derek's chest could truly settle in, the other's inquisitive, mile-a-minute brain was already pulling at the next thread within reach, his thirst for knowledge truly unquenchable.

"But isn't it, I don't know, bad for a werewolf to show other werewolves when they're vulnerable? Isn't that kinda like a sign of weakness or something?"

"That's a very good question." Derek felt impressed by just how astute Stiles could be. "Think of it like this. Most people know that smoking can be a sign of stress, right? A person will sometimes smoke when they feel nervous or when they're upset. You see it in movies all the time: detectives working on cases through a long night, someone whose hands are too shaky to light their cigarette after they've seen a murder, that sort of thing. Everyone knows that people smoke cigarettes at their low points. But, if you were to see a stranger smoking on the street, would you automatically assume it was because they were feeling vulnerable?"

"No."

"No, you wouldn't. Maybe they started smoking at a young age and now the habit is too strong for them to break as an adult. They may have started smoking during a stressful time in their lives and couldn't stop even after the stress was gone. Maybe they saw someone they looked up to smoke and wanted to emulate them. Maybe they think it makes them look cool. There are so many other unseen factors at play that people won't even think twice about seeing someone smoking. The same logic applies to werewolves and leather jackets. Just because they wear it when they feel vulnerable, that doesn't necessarily mean that's the only time they wear it. You never know. Maybe it's just cold outside."

"Whoa…that's intense. I never could have imagined so much lore from something like a leather jacket. Who would have thought that a coat could be the crutch of werewolf society?"

"Any more questions?"

"Oh, uh, no! That's all I've got."

"Good. You should feel honored. This is probably the most I've ever said to anyone in my entire life. I don't do that for just anyone, you know."

[jalebi-weds-bluetooth]

Arnav + Khushi Sleeping Positions

Talk about thinking random stuffs midnight!

While it’s usually not a position to be too worried about, it might be a good idea to converse with your partner if this is a sudden change from a more intimate sleeping position.

JWB Notes: t’s interesting to note that they usually sleep apart when one is too stressed (such as Khushi’s afraid about Aarav’s paternity, Arnav is bothered by what he is as a husband, and him getting his nightmare about his parents). There is a slight distance and I love it that it is shown especially during times of duress. Psychologically, it makes sense. 

If you sleep facing each other but don’t touch, some believe there could be an issue in the relationship. Both partners may desire attention from each other, but are failing to give it.

To combat this, experts recommend prioritizing listening to one another and being open and honest about your feelings.

However, it can also be read as another position called pillow talk. This is a sign that you’re close and open to sharing things with each other.

JWB Notes: Ok, Arnav is awake over here and this scene ends up with him holding her hand but I find it so accurate that this scene is establishing two things. One, he is having a one sided pillow talk and two, there is an issue in the relationship. He is not prioritizing listening to her, or the fact that his words even reach her. He is not being open about his feelings (otherwise he’d say it when he’s awake). Yet it’s a sign of intimacy from him. It’s so conflicted and beautiful at once. 

A pretty self-explanatory sleeping position, this involves both people facing each other with their heads at the same level and their bodies intertwined.

Sleeping in this way suggests the two individuals are incredibly close and generally happy in their relationship.

JWB Notes: I know this might feel off key considering that they’re far from happy in their relationship in both the sequences but some very important things are happening here. In the first image Arnav, for the first time, truly realizes his failure as a husband and is openly exhibiting his need for intimacy - a gentle touch. It’s the most successful their six months relationship has ever been at that point because Khushi has always been more open and it was necessary for him to go through the understanding. In the second one while they are going through a bitter/comedic argument, there’s no questioning whether or not love exists. It does. There are no physical boundaries drawn at this moment. There’s almost a domesticity of this scene that makes me think that perhaps this is how they fall asleep in general. 

A rather intense position, the tangle is apparently rarely seen. When it does occur, it’s usually immediately after an intimate situation or at the beginning of a new relationship.It can only be described as this: an extremely close hug, but lying down. In other words, not a lot of breathing room.

While the tangle is okay every now and then, long-term incidences may prompt you to rethink how dependent you are on each other.

JWB Notes: Yes, absolutely there is a necessity to rethink how dependent they are on each other because Khushi absolutely cannot leave him despite the worst and he cannot let her go even if its for the best, for her. Also it’s not visible here but the reason I put it as tangle is because he’s literally holding her face in this point. And their sleeping position here is also similar to leg-hug;

A second passionate posture is the leg hug. Whether your feet are touching every so often or your legs are fully intertwined, this position is asking for intimacy.

If both of you are doing it, that’s a good sign. But if only one person is into the leg hug, there may be a slight imbalance in the relationship.

JWB Notes: YES! THIS I FIRMLY WANT TO SAY HIGHLIGHTS THAT KHUSHI WAS CRAVING INTIMACY. And that there is an imbalance in this relationship. It’s played to a comedic effect (regrettably all of Khushi’s emotions often are, post marriage) but you SEE it here who’s investing and ultimately wanting more in this relationship and my heart breaks for Khushi. Also, she physically exhibits more in her house rather than Arnav’s - which makes sense because she is physically more comfortable here than at Arnav’s. 

Also known as the nuzzle, this practically cherubic position sees one person sleeping flat on their back while the other rests their head on the first person’s chest. Legs and arms often “hug” each other too.

Just like spooning, this is deemed to be a protective posture with an added touch of passion.

JWB Notes: This is my favorite sleeping position of theirs because it is so adorable and made sense it’s what we see right after marriage considering they’re literally in their honeymoon phase. There’s acknowledged intimacy, a burst of love, they literally cannot get their hands off each other with her head on his shoulder. Which, in an odd way nearly mimics their previous ‘honeymoon’ night... it’s interesting to note their hands aren’t touching though, just the head and shoulders. And it’s a flip here, Arnav’s head is on her shoulder! 

Hope you liked going down this silly rabbit hole with me!

Love,

- JWB

P.S: Here’s the article about sleeping positions - https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sleep/couple-sleeping-positions#face-to-face-touching

Tagging: @butaneandthebeast @shaonsim @shiyaravi @myloveforstuff @leila1 @lostafpanda @laadgovernorandsankadevi @laad-governess @thenainitaldisaster @maansiloves @chutkiandchotte @honeybellexox @bigfatreader @simplycurlz @thecharlesboyle @sapnokiduniyaisalwaysbetter @zaphbeeblebrox @shehzaadimira @pakki-ya-nahin @mindpdnim @jaanedil @pandora-678 @featheredclover @rae-blogging @goals1024 @onadaanparindey @magicfeltmybloop @acroakingbird @blogenana @starzin8s @exosexosekai @noor1025 @ijustchangedmyname @delicatecloudfestivalweasel @sankititaliya @dvk-ok @roqiaposts​ @white-thebeauty​ @childofsquidward​ @maansiloves​ @shehzaadimira​ [if you want to be added/removed from tags lemme know!]

[bbygirl-aemond]

Why do you think Daemon loves Viserys so much? I never understood why Daemon never acknowledges what a shitty brother Viserys was to him. Even seeming abusive in some scenes.

I personally don't buy the Daemon would ever hurt Rhaenyra bit because the dumb explanation that showrunners gave, "He wanted to attack Viserys" doesn't hold up when you see, in every scene, Daemon is always, always leaning away from Viserys.

The garden party scene, the Throne room confrontation scenes (both of them), the Driftmark scene etc.

Maybe I'm reading too much, but Daemon always seems to relent and just give up to Viserys. Never once he shows even hints of wanting to attack Viserys. It's always him being almost meek and very subdued in Viserys' hand.

Why would he then suddenly want to attack Viserys. Worst, mistake Rhaenyra for Viserys? I can imagine him being hurt but a good character development would've been Daemon finally realising he'd NEVER be enough for Viserys and just giving up on the ideal image he had of Viserys all his life.

Not get upset with another person (Rhaenyra) who has also felt abandoned and neglected by Viserys, she literally tells him that and I imagine she shared her feelings over the 6 years they were married, and lash out at them.

I think to understand Daemon's feelings towards Viserys, you need to understand Daemon's childhood. Daemon's mother, Alyssa, died from childbirth complications when Daemon was just a toddler, along with Daemon's baby brother, Aegon. The dual losses absolutely destroyed Daemon's father, Baelon, and turned him into a distant, angry man. Daemon never knew the love or security that came from having a happy, mentally healthy mother OR a father.

Enter Viserys, who while probably not great was still the only family member present throughout Daemon's life. To Daemon, Viserys became not just his older brother and protector, but his mother and father as well. Daemon's need for love, for attention, for protection, for stability, couldn't be directed towards his parents, and so he directed it towards Viserys instead.

For a long, LONG time, Viserys is quite literally the only person Daemon loves in the entire world. THIS is why Daemon clings to him so tightly and refuses to acknowledge how Viserys treats him. Because if the only family alive, the only one capable of understanding and loving him, doesn't care for him, what does it say about him? Daemon is afraid that he is fundamentally unlovable, and that fear underlies every single interaction with Viserys. So no matter what Viserys does, Daemon represses his sadness and his anger, because he is completely unable to face the truth that Viserys might not love him the way he loves Viserys.

But then Daemon's plausible deniability fails, for two reasons. The first is that Viserys dies, without ever having come around the way Daemon always hoped he would. I'm sure there are others who can relate to the devastation that you feel when a loved one dies before you can get closure with them. Daemon is reeling, realizing that the fantasy he'd had of Viserys loving him will now NEVER come true, because Viserys is dead. Second, Rhaenyra confronts him, while he's had no time at all to process his grief and regret over this, with PROOF that Viserys was capable of love and trust but chose to withhold it from Daemon specifically.

In this moment, Daemon doesn't feel solidarity with Rhaenyra as another family member discarded by Viserys. He feels jealousy and hurt because Rhaenyra HAS been trusted by Viserys. Daemon and Rhaenyra both spent years as Viserys's heir, but only Rhaenyra was entrusted with the Song of Ice and Fire. To Daemon, this proves his worst fear true: That Daemon, in and of himself, is fundamentally unlovable and untrustworthy.

And Viserys is dead. Daemon will never get a chance to express this rage and hurt and betrayal that he's feeling to the man who caused it. In that moment, he's nothing more than the scared and lonely little toddler he used to be, confronting the fact that despite how fiercely he loves his family (encompassed by his brother, who was also father and mother to him), his family has NEVER loved him back the same way. And standing before him is Rhaenyra, who he loves at least in part because he sees her as an extension of Viserys. Rhaenyra, who is apparently better and more lovable and more trustworthy than him in Viserys's eyes. Rhaenyra, who has just rubbed salt into his fresh wounds in the worst possible way, and who has (however unintentionally) just hurt him more than he has EVER allowed himself to be hurt in his entire life.

Of course he lashes out at her.

[totaleclipse573]

What are some Eclipse headcanons you have?

I AM SO GLAD YOU ASKED THIS MAKES ME VERY HAPPY HEHEHEEHHEH

Here's all the ones I have so far :

Like I've mentioned once before, after the hivemind was destroyed, all the noise in Eclipse's mind that he had gotten used to just suddenly disappeared. It felt unnatural and strange to him, and made him feel uncomfortable. He didn't like it at all. Talking out loud became a sort of coping mechanism, so now he just doesn't shut up. It annoys Shadow a bunch, but he lets Eclipse keep talking most of the time and just listens, since he knows it helps him.

The Dark Arms are like his "therapy animals," in a way. It's one of the reasons he loves them so much, they just make him feel really happy and safe.

Eclipse uses humor as a coping mechanism as well

Because of the imaginary redemption arc he got in my head, Eclipse's best friend is Sonic. Sonic helped him out a lot with all that. Plus, I just love the concept of them being smart individuals on their own, but when they're together, they actually share half a braincell. (All of Mobius FEARS THESE TWO ON APRIL FOOLS.)

When Eclipse was just created, he was a VERY curious kid. Like, he would just never stop asking questions, ever. He would also always try and find ways to get a lot of attention, specifically from Black Death. Also, I’m sure he’s tried to speak to the other Black Arms verbally and getting somewhat frustrated that they won’t answer, before realizing they can’t talk, and that he needs to use the hive mind. I’m sure of it.

Eclipse is very sensitive to the cold. If it gets too cold he’ll go into a kind of hibernation mode where he just falls asleep and doesn’t wake up until his body temperature is warm again (He has been shoved into the oven at least once during the winter.) He absolutely CANNOT go out into the snow without more than one snow jacket. And lastly, when Shadow knows he’s going to lose and argument to Eclipse, he gradually keeps turning down the AC at random points in the argument until Eclipse takes his little cold nap. Rouge has to put parental controls on the dang AC unit now. 

In present, I usually take Eclipse to be a little shorter than Shadow in height. But since Eclipse has more Black Arms DNA, he’ll eventually have a slight growth spurt that makes him a few inches taller than Shadow. Shadow will never hear the end of it after that. 

A lot of Eclipse's emotions can be best expressed through his tail movements. If he's happy or excited, it'll wag like a dog's. If he's afraid, it'll curl up and go between his legs. When shocked or spooked, it'll go completely straight (like those cartoon cats lol.) He can also use it to hang from stuff like trees like an opossum, which he does sometimes to scare the heck out of Shadow and get a good laugh out of it.

And...that's all the one's I can think of for now! I'm definitely open to hearing any other headcanons though!

[goldensmilingbird]

Please tell us about your new blorbo Neel! What captured your attention, what kind of character is he and how is the overall show he is starring in?

Thank you for asking :)

Sorry it took a while to answer, I have lots of thoughts but they were all kinda scrambled.

Okay, so, the show.

I think I need to explain the basics of the plot first. So there's two storylines. First one is about how the Duke of Normandy died and his heir (our main character) escaped, and now he pretends to be a normal peasant boy named Hugo, while various lords and ladies are trying to get their hands on him and the throne. And Neel's mother, Dame Neel (I guess it's a family name), promised to her husband that she'll put their son on the throne by the time he's back. Keep in mind that Neel and "Hugo" are both twelve. These boys are not even in their teens yet.

The second storyline is about how there is a giant dragon Loki trapped underground, and that if Hugo doesn't learn runes and renew his ancestor's spell, he'll free himself and the world will literally end. So basically he has to fake being a normal boy with a normal life so he doesn't get kidnapped or killed, but also save the world. That's the gist of it.

I watched about half of the show so far (14 out of 26 episodes), and I really enjoy it. The beginning might feel kinda slow, but it gets better. The animation is 3D with this 2D look. The first time I saw an image from the show, I thought it looked cool, and it kinda reminded me of the Cartoon Saloon style, especially the backgrounds. And turns out the studio (Les Armateurs) did work with them on Secret of Kells, and also they were involved in some other cool stuff I watched or heard of, like Long Long Holiday, Ernest and Celestine (the movies and the show), Triplets of Belleville, etc. But I'm kinda getting off-topic. Point is, they got experience.

But back to Neel. His mom is very protective of him, but she's also strict, and he really wants to impress her, only to end up disappointing her again. He's physically weak, not good at handling weapons and overall not great viking material. His father is out of the picture, but his mother brings him up once in a "what would he think of you now?" way, and he also has abandonment issues after his father leaving him.

So far we got absent parent, strict parent, abandonment issues, low self-esteem, he's isolated from other kids his age and runs away from the castle multiple times, his mom even gets sick because of a magical artifact sapping her energy at some point... This boy is so Adrien-coded, I swear.

There is one other close person in his life though, the only one who shows him affection - and that's the head guard Ulrich, the guy who is hunting down the main character. And he is that one person Neel is afraid would leave him. Neel absolutely adores this guy. He's so happy every time he sees him, I find it adorable.

He wants to go out there and help him and fight by his side, but Ulrich's main job is to keep him safe, so he's not letting that happen. Did I mention Neel almost died one time? That was because he sneaked away to try and help Ulrich again.

And Ulrich is interesting to me because he's so loyal to this family that serving them is pretty much his only goal. And even if he might feel guilty about some of the horrible things he's done, he can still justify them to himself. At some point, looking after Neel became more than just a duty though. In his own words, he has the weakness to consider him his own son.

There are lot of familial ties in this show. Hugo loses his parents and has to live with a new family. His mentor/father figure, who Ulrich killed, parallels Ulrich himself. Even the other antagonists are a family. I just really enjoy that.

I'm hoping Neel would be more involved in the second part of the season, I feel like him and Hugo are starting to become friends, and who knows, maybe even his father will come back. And there was a plot twist in the last episode that I kinda didn't expect, so I'm interested to see where it goes.

Anyway, it's a fun show, and it has some good characters and story. And if any of you like medieval settings or Norse mythology, you might enjoy that as well. One thing that upsets me though is that this show is only available in English on a right-wing streaming service, and the money from it go to like, the worst kind of people. So here are the links where you can watch the show for free!

First ten episodes in English dub (new ones come out on Saturdays)

English subtitle files

French episodes with French subs

Thanks for coming to my Neel talk 🙏

And please, check out the show

[streamdotpng]

I want backstories on Enid's pack, we got Mercury who is basically rich kid but what are her parents like?

Hati and Skoll! Being named after the wolves that wants to eat the sun and moon, whose names also means the one who hates (Hati) and the one who mocks (Sköll). Why were they delinquents?

mercury got rather uncaring parents who had her young and have rather strict life beliefs so instead of admitting they weren't ready for a kid, lumped her with her caretakers instead. So she tends to act out to try and catch their attention

it didn't work and instead, she got sent to arcadia. Before that, she went through a phase where she tryharded in school in hopes that itd get some attention, when that didnt work, she went to law breaking but all that got is her being grounded and less of a stipend to spend

enid and the pack had to get it through her thick skull that she didn't need to act out for affections and now she's alot more chill, still a brat though just for shits and giggles

I chose Skoll to be the one who mocks simply because he's a brash loudmouth of a shithead. He's reckless, there's absolutely no impulse control in his head and Hati says that its because of all the trash he ate as a kid

that's right, hati and skoll's sure don't look related but Skoll claims otherwise and Hati doesn't disagree

Skoll and Hati didn't come in through rich parents. They're actually from the government because well.. Arcadia was known for rehabilitating werewolves and when you have two streets rats known to do so much havoc and way too young to be in prison, you send them to the next best thing

its why Hati was originally an alpha, too used to protecting his brother and grown to enjoy the violence that comes with it. Then he got his ass demoted to a beta because he was simply too ruthless when it comes to people outside of his brother

Skoll on the other hand while not as bloody as Hati was a wildcard that isn't afraid to defect during team excercises, not to mention his habit of stealing and so they lumped skoll and hati together for once and thrown them at enid

think of hati and skoll as each other's impulse control

and now that enid's there.. she's the impulse control of all three because they unfortunately feed into each other

[polinator]

I have come here for one reason. To shout into the void of the internet.

Y'all. Y'all. Y'ALL. Bless your hearts. I love the Bridgerton canon. Since I read TVWLM over 20 years ago... well, liked it since then. Loved it more when I read AOFAG (and yeah, I know some people hate it, but I do not). And I say this as a person who has written fan fiction in this fandom and made physical things celebrating this universe.... It isn't that serious.

These are historical romance novels that lean into comedy a lot of the time. Historical rom coms, if you will. I wish people would stop interpreting them in the most tragic way possible without taking into consideration the intention Julia Quinn had when writing them.

Are there issues with scenes in some of the books? Yes. Do I adore every tiny thing in them? No.

But, what do you think JQ intended? Do you think she intended for her romantic heroes to come off as abusive sometimes? No. (Well, unless you are talking about Turner. For Turner the answer is most definitely yes.) The office scene in TVWLM, the lake scene in AOFAG, the engagement ball scene in RMB, and so on... they were written to be read like physical comedy. Like a screwball comedy. Like I Love Lucy where Ricky spanks Lucy. Is that problematic when we look back at it in 20fucking24? Yes, of course. But was Lucille Ball trying to imply Ricky Ricardo was an abuser? No. It was meant to be funny.

People take Colin to task for thinking about hitting Eloise. Y'all must be fucking saints if you've never thought about hitting your sibling. The fact he only hit her once I find amazing. My sister and I fought all the damn time. The love in the Bridgerton household must have been like a huge bubble. My parents were/are the most amazing parents God had ever put on this earth.... and my sister and I still fought. Also, I've def thought about strangling a boyfriend or two. And a child or two. Did I do it? No. But I thought about it. And you've definitely thought about doing bodily harm to someone. Because it's a human thing. It doesn't mean you are actually going to do it. And it certainly doesn't mean you're an abuser. Good god girl get a grip.

Julia just didn't think about these things as deeply as some in the fandom think she did. Like 20+ years ago when the books were first released they were popular but not that popular. People were not all over it analyzing everything like they are now. (I mean, we were to try to figure out who LW was at the time, but not everything else.)

On the same lines, Edmund was not an abusive father at all. Again, what do you imagine JQ's intentions were when she said Colin was horsewhipped? Do you think she actually meant beaten? No, of course fucking not. Over and over in her canon she shows and tells you what a great father Edmund was. She has absolutely no problem telling you if someone's dad or guardian are trash. Let us count the ways (spoilers below and trigger warnings for real):

Simon's father- pretended he didn't exist because he stuttered, fuck him up so badly he was going to not have an heir just to spite the hateful son of a bitch.

Sophie's dad- didn't give her any attention, left her to be raised by servants, only called her his ward, left her fate in Araminta's hands

Phillip's dad- horrible shit who actually beat Phillip with a whip, his scars are detailed, how he is beaten is detailed, his father's anger is detailed, is a huge part of the book, Phillip is afraid to touch his kids because he doesn't want to be like his father.

Gareth's dad- shit of a human being who treats his youngest son like trash because he is not his biological son, cut him off completely, tried to ruin the estate so he would have a shit ton of debt when he actually died, betrothed him to a girl with intellectual disabilities without his consent and said if he didn't marry her he couldn't go to school

Lucy's uncle- the third to worst person in a JQ book, stole money from their estate, betrothed her to (a very lovely) gay man because he was being blackmailed for treason, said he didn't give a fuck about her, made her believe her father was the treasonous bastard so he could guilt her into marrying the man, threatened Lucy at knifepoint, said he was going to watch while Lucy's marriage was consummated and implied that if her new husband didn't do it he would let the man's father rape her to ensure it happened

And who could forget... Hugh's father- a psychopathic piece of filth so wretched it's hard to list all the horrible things he's done from memory, but just here's just a taste: beats his sons when they do anything he considers to be wrong including misremember some part of their family tree and he enjoys it, repeatedly hired sex workers to rape his gay son and then would encourage them to beat him and helped beat him with his cane when the son wouldn't have sex with them, raped his wife repeatedly (and their sons could hear it), is so obsessed with his lineage that when Hugh, one son, was accidentally crippled he paid men to follow poor Daniel (the guy who slipped and accidentally shot him) to the continent to murder him and didn't stop until his son told him he would kill himself if Daniel died, he bribed servants so he could keep tabs on Hugh because that title is super important, he then kicked Hugh on his painful, injured leg and drugged him so he could tie him to the bed so that he could lock a lady in the room and force their marriage for the sake of that damn title, and more I'm sure I can't remember. AND he did all this without a trace of remorse.

And probably other fathers I can't remember. What does Julia Quinn say about Edmund? He was the best of men and of fathers. Now, thinking about JQ and how she's written alllll these other fathers, do you think she really meant that Colin was actually horsewhipped? No. She probably thought spanking but make it Regency.

I love her books, but do you think she's deep diving into research? Probably not. I mean, she forgot that she wrote Colin's birthday was in January. At the beginning of 'Just Like Heaven' Colin and Penelope are married and in the middle of the story they aren't even engaged yet. She is not thinking about things that deeply.

They are supposed to be fun and romantic and sometimes humorous and the drama... they are not meant to be analyzed and dissected like you would 'Invisible Man.' They aren't supposed to be all moody and intense-- it's not Dickens. Emotional, yeah of course, they are romances, but not taken so seriously.

But you know, don't come for my Bridgerverse canon babies, or I will cut you because I do take my love for them seriously. (Well, not Turner, you can have Turner.)

@your3fundamentaltruths I am not coming at you about Turner... well maybe a little bit. But you and I and maybe like five other people know the Bridgerverse well enough to get the reference.

[mormonbooks]

The Bollywood Lovers' Club Review

This book absolutely wrecked me (affectionate)

4/5 Stars!!!!!!!

Amrita Sidhu moves away from her home in California, leaving behind a community and extended family where she knows who she is. Her new home in Ohio is cold and lonely but at least she has a couple of classes with Dave Gill, who is sweet and funny and awkward and Mormon. Amrita is Sihk and is not supposed to be dating anybody, certainly not a Mormon kid that her family doesn't even know. Dave is already struggling with how to tell his parents he won't be going to college like they expected, and he's still undecided on a mission. Falling for a girl outside his religion just adds another secret into his life.

This book centers around religion, faith, family expectation, and personal goals. I wish I'd had this kind of book to read growing up. For once I felt like my high school experience was accurately portrayed.

Spoilers under the cut

1. Well written - 5 Stars

Admittedly, you could probably find flaws in the plot if you looked. It's a High School Romance. Some things are cheesy or happen too fast or whatever, but personally I found the story and writing style engaging, realistic, relatable, and anxiety inducing at time.

2. Fun level - 5 Stars!

I love to read, but it's not often a book can hold my undivided attention for 4 hours straight. This book did. Every time I picked it up I felt myself sucked into Dave and Amrita's world. It might not be everyone's cup of tea (it IS a high school realistic fiction novel. No magic or spaceships) but I was entertained the whole way through.

3. Complex faith - 5 Stars

This is my favorite representation of Mormon life that I have EVER seen. It is exactly the kind of book I am looking for in this project. Dave is Mormon. He goes to early morning seminary and helps out in his ward. He loves his faith but he's also not afraid to ask questions about how things pertain to him personally. He grapples with his faith, and with what people have told him to do, before coming to his own conclusions.

Importantly, Amrita's religion is portrayed just as complexly throughout the book. And neither Dave nor Amrita ever consider giving up their faiths or converting or anything. I appreciated that they included Dave's grandfather, who converted to Mormonism from Sihkism, and explored how Dave feels this disconnect when he visits the gurdwara, like it's a place he should belong, but doesn't.

This book treats religion as a mixture of personal beliefs, family tradition, and community belonging, which is how I feel about my religion.

4. Homophobia scale - 2.5

Absolutely no mention of queerness at all. So it just gets the most medium score. There was no preaching but no gay people.

5. Mormon weird - 2

We had Dave explaining his green jello video project at one point, and a portrayal of Mormon wedding reception in the church gym (someone in Dave's ward at the beginning of the book). But overall it was light on the things that make Mormonism unique. Which I think worked for the story it was telling but does get it a low score in this area. It made me feel all the more represented for that I think.

6. Diversity of characters - 4

There are only like, two white girls in the whole story. Everybody else is Punjabi/Indian. Although that's really just one demographic, I am giving it a high score here because of how much it showed of Punjabi culture, and how much respect and honor those traditions were shown by the narrative. It wasn't just a ton of token characters, it was genuinely working to share a kind of story that doesn't always get told.

7. Other problematic stuff - 5

Didn't notice anything more of note.

Conclusion:

This is the kind of story I wish I had been able to read in high school. This is the kind of book I could recommend to someone as just, genuinely a good story and also it includes mormons. And Mormons done well! I feel like a lot of Mormon media I've seen focused a lot at making fun of ourselves, and I love that this book doesn't do that at all.

The end was heartbreaking. But I like that it allowed each character their choice, and it gave honor to prioritizing something other than romantic love.

[xarrixii]

Chapter_06 : "Acid Rain" ━━━━━━━━━━━━━

CW: previous chapter | beginning | masterlist

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For the sixth time this year, Harlow’s phone refused to connect to data or cell service. For the fiftieth time this year, he was trying to sleep on the couch in the Flash Fire garage, also an old storage unit his parents had forgotten about the monthly payment for and had kept paying anyway.

He needed a walk.

Harlow pulled an umbrella off an old shelf, trying a few times before it finally cranked open and clicked.

A heavy downpour cascaded everything he could see in an obscuring muck. Only place to really go was the red-light district nearby. Thank God everyone would be inside getting wet on their own terms.

Puddles splashed beneath his boots as he walked forward, approaching the flashing and glittering lights with a pained expression.

“Har! Can I call you Har? Look, buddy, pal, we’ve got some talking to do.” A hand was set on his shoulder and he whipped around, fist getting caught before it connected with their head. Liam chuckled, “Would you believe me if I said that isn’t the first time someone’s tried to punch me today?”

“Yes,” Harlow said, eyeing Liam’s bruise on his cheek. “Don’t call me ‘Har.’ ”

“Fine. Listen, Harlow.” Liam set their hand back on Harlow’s shoulder and pushed him to keep walking forward with him. Harlow instinctively recoiled at the touch, but continued walking. “Matty’s ready to start cutting deals with you.”

“Not in person, of course?”

“Oh, of course not.” His hair was dripping with water, and Harlow handed him the umbrella to set his hands in his pockets. Mostly to get Liam’s hand off of his shoulder.

They walked in silence for a few seconds before Liam cleared his throat. “Right. Look, you’ve got a dead brother and you think⸺”

“Stop yourself right fucking there.” Harlow’s hand clenched in his pocket. “And don’t you dare call me Harlow. I don’t want it rolling off of your tongue.”

Liam’s mouth stood agape before continuing. “I’m not gonna tell you you’re the one with the attitude between you and Raiden. I think you both have an attitude, and I think Matty is too afraid to admit it. But she told me to say that. Now we have to get a move on with this conversation.

“She’s generously offering you a living space for a year. Somewhere that puts your skills in easier access from the little puppet strings I swear up and down she hides on her fingers.”

“No.”

“Oh, come on.”

“What?”

“You and Raiden are like the same people, just one of you is platinum blonde and way hotter.”

Harlow made a full-stop while walking. “Say that again?”

“Keep moving.” Liam pushed Harlow forward again. “I have never seen Matty’s opinion on someone turn on its heel like it has on you before, and it still was decently miniscule.”

“Meaning?”

“Meaning, kid, that you made my boss realize she was wrong for once! And I’m pleading with you to please, please do it again.”

“No.”

The lights illuminated Liam’s face starkly red as he half-jogged to keep up with Harlow’s walking pace, gaze darting around everywhere like some scared dog. Harlow unintentionally cocked his head, which caught Liam’s attention.

“How honest do I have to be with you? Cinder needs your intelligence. Your wit, your quick thinking, your ability to find a solution amidst absolute panic. To keep moving despite the stakes, to want to keep living.”

Harlow snickered and turned back to the sidewalk ahead of him.

“Alright, I’ll admit that last one was in poor taste. But Matty’s been focusing far too much on sheer power lately that I think she’s forgotten we can train that, and that it’s harder to train the noggin you’ve already got in you.”

“My answer is still no, Liam.”

“Please tell me what is so horribly wrong with our offer so we can make amends and get past the whole ‘trying to get you arrested and in rehab so we didn’t have to deal with you thing.’ Please?”

After a moment of consideration, “My parents are egotistical maniacs who would never agree to that, and I don’t want you getting attached because I’m only going to be in Cinder for a year. Did you already forget that part?”

“I’m sure they’d be happy to be rid of you.”

“You didn’t mean that in the tone you said it, did you?”

“No. No I did not. Look, my paycheck depends on you in a Cinder complex tonight. That help?”

“Oh no.”

“Okay, kid, what do I have to give you?”

“Why are you so desperate? Do you think me for a joke to believe for a second that Cinder even begins to care about me or Raiden past whatever short-term mercenary use we supply?”

“You will know when we are joking. Which is conveniently quite often when you’re not being a little piece of shit in the red-light district.”

“I’m sure you love it here.”

“Asshole.”

“There you go.”

Liam took a deep breath as a car pulled up beside them both. “Just get in the car, Urban. Don’t make this hard.”

“Oh I’m making it hard?”

“Yes. Very hard, actually, I know that’s very hard to believe. The only nice thing you’ve done in the past five minutes was hand me your umbrella.”

“Keep it. And good luck with your paycheck, I think I’ll just sleep at home tonight, actually.” Harlow hadn’t really planned on going back there, but if it was his only option, he’d take it and deal with whatever his parents had to say.

“Incorrect. ‘Get in the car’ was not an option.”

“Does burning everyone you love sound tempting enough for me to leave you alone?”

“I’d say yes if I had anyone to love.”

“Well, I got nothing.”

Harlow heard the passenger door of the black car swing open and shut, glanced around for only a second, and started bolting down the red-light district. Liam’s voice rang through his head like a gun, I told you it wasn’t an option.

A hand wrapped itself around his wrist and the lighter practically sprang out of his pocket to life, Harlow burning the operatives hand as they flinched it back in surprise. Liam teleported in front of him, and he moved to take off running again. Just to get home as fast as possible.

“I think I need to bring you back to what I said earlier. You’ve got a dead brother, and you think it’s your fault that he’s dead. Am I wrong? I can’t be wrong because I stole those thoughts from your head. Yours, Urban.”

Without even thinking about it, the small lighter flame was about the size of a decent summon and blue, unwavering in his hand as he gripped onto the collar of Liam’s shirt. “That is none of your business.”

Liam’s breathing was uneven, paralyzed and overflowing with the terror flooding his eyes as they flitted between Harlow and his flame.

Harlow dropped Liam, who scrambled back slightly as he dropped the lighter to the floor and the flame sputtered out. Rain still pouring down from all sides in sheets. All of a sudden, Harlow could feel every breath that rose from his throat.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry, I lost control.” He felt weak, unable to focus on anything. “I don’t… I don’t know how I did that.”

Liam picked himself up from the concrete meticulously, painfully slow.

Harlow felt his arm grabbed from behind.

He barely heard Liam’s voice through the pelting rain shower. “We’ll compromise later, kid. Later.”

Then he went slack.

next chapter

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i have no idea why it took me so long to use my laptop. why did i go like, a week without it? i don't know. oh my god i just found out you can copy-paste a tag list this changes my life