#but i do know that i love Debbie and she deserves everything

[redvelvetvenom]

Y'know Debbie could've had it all with Fester. Bro literally wanted to give her everything she ever asked for. Like EVERYTHING!! But Debbie still wanted to kill him! Why?? Well maybe she's a LESBIAN

Think about it I mean never once has Debbie ever loved a man. And you think maybe a guy that will give her everything and dote on her like she wants will satisfy her. And maybe you're right! I will also accept the idea that Debbie could've been an Addams if she stopped to realize they loved her like family. Maybe she could've come to love Fester and they would have been a match made in heaven where she spent the rest of her life lovingly trying to kill him. Or MAYBE all of her problems would've been fixed if she had a sugar mama to take care of her.

Maybe there's a happy medium where Debbie realizes she's accepted by the family but then she just can't bring herself to love Fester BECAUSE SHE'S NOT INTO MEN!! And the Addams adopt her anyways.

[mountttmase]

Always There

Note - this is for my lovely Sid @mm-vii 🥹 thank you so much bestie for this request I love dad Mase so much and I’m so glad you love him too. I hope you guys enjoy this and feedback would be much appreciated like normal 🩷

Pairing - Mason Mount × Reader

Word count - 3.7K

Warnings - fluff

You’d never been in so much pain in your life. It was almost like you could still feel the pain radiating through you as you retold the story to your best friend on the phone.

‘Sid I swear, like worse than childbirth I’m telling you cause at least then you’re getting a cute thing to take home with you at the end. With this all I’ve got is a scar and aching limbs’ you told her, a slight laugh in your voice so you could let her know it was okay to laugh too but she was feeling more sympathetic than anything else.

The pain had started at the end of last week but you ignored it until you really couldn’t anymore and after an emergent doctor's appointment you were rushed into surgery to have your ruptured appendix removed. It was all so sudden and everything hurt but slowly and surely you were on the mend.

‘How’s Mason coping?’

‘He’s doing alright. I believe they're letting him take ollie to to training tomorrow as Debbie leaves in the morning but he’s been amazing so far’ you smiled, thinking about how he’d really taken charge in the last few days and kept the house running with some help from Debbie who'd come to stay for a few days to help out. ‘Tilly’s still got nursery so she should be fine’

‘Scott and I can always come and check on everything if you need us to’ Sid reassured and your heart swelled at how thoughtful she was.

‘I might take you up on that. I’ll see how he gets on tomorrow’ you told her, not wanting Mason to think like you didn’t trust him to look after everything he’s been doing before you heard a rustling coming from outside.

You saw Mason's head poke around the door, a soft smile on his face as he slowly made his way over to kiss your forehead before heading to the bathroom. He looked exhausted so with a quick goodbye to Sid you made sure you were free to speak to Mason when he reappeared.

‘Hey baby, you okay?’ You smiled as he emerged a little while later, dressed only in his boxers and your heart gave a thud as he flopped down next to you gently.

‘I’m fine. How are you doing?’

‘I’m feeling a lot better actually’ you told him and he craned his neck up to take a better look at you.

‘You look a lot better today. Got a bit more colour in your face’ he smiled before he went a little shy. ‘Do you think I might be able to have a cuddle?’ He asked quietly. Knowing that he’d been refraining from asking as he had to be so careful with you and even though you missed his touch, you still weren't quite ready for a full on hug. You weren’t about to burst his bubble though so you patted your chest so that he would place his head there and positioned his arm so that it was far away from your scar. Thankfully Mason was laid on the opposite side to it so he could cuddle up to your side without any issues but you felt your heart race when hummed contently at the feel of you. ‘Thank you, beautiful. I’ve missed this’

‘Me too’ you breathed, reaching up to scratch over his scalp as he nuzzled into you a little more and all you wanted to was to kiss over his face.

‘I don’t know how you do this everyday with them. Even with my mum's help I’m half dead’ he laughed, kissing your neck gently as he referred to looking after the kids and the house all on his own. ‘You’re like a real life superwoman’

‘You’re doing such a good job though, Mase’ you reassured him quietly. ‘And I’ll be able to start helping out more soon’

‘Well not too soon. You need to be 100% better before you even lift a finger okay?’

‘Okay’ you laughed. ‘I just feel a bit useless stuck in here all day’

‘Well you deserve a rest. But you should have just said if you needed one you know? Didn’t have to rupture your appendix just for some sympathy’ he teased

‘You’re right sorry, I won’t go as hard next time’

‘Thank you’ he winked before settling down into you further.

‘I mean it though, Mase. You’re doing a really great job, I’m so proud of you and the way you always step up’

‘Thank you baby’ he whispered shyly, his cheek warm against your chest. ‘Did you enjoy your soup tonight?’

‘I did’ you laughed, knowing how proud he was about making you dinner even thought it was basically already done for him and he just had to heat it up. ‘I won’t lie though, I can’t wait until I’m allowed solid foods again. It’s like I’ve forgotten how to chew’

‘Only a couple more days and you can have whatever you like’

‘I think I want pizza’ you told him, images of your favourite flashing through your mind and it was like you could almost taste it.

‘If my baby wants pizza she can have pizza’

‘And chocolate fudge cake’

‘That too’

‘Thank you Masey’

‘Anything for you’ he whispered, kissing your neck softly and you felt the goosebumps rise on your skin at his touch.

You spent the rest of the night discussing the next day. Debbie would be dropping off Tilly at nursery the next morning before she left for home whilst Mason would be taking Ollie to training. School didn’t start for another few days and you cursed your appendix for it’s awful timing but Ollie was pretty excited to get to go to work with his daddy and from what you remembered Mason had said they had a few things planned for Ollie to help with.

‘You should get some sleep Mase’ you whispered, looking down at him resting peacefully on your chest and you could almost feel your heart bursting from how much you loved him.

Whatever you needed he was always there.

When you first felt the pain and brushed it off, he was the one to beg you to go and get checked.

When you were rushed to surgery, he was the one who held your hand and told you everything would be okay when they put you under.

When you woke up, he was there again. Stroking your skin and letting you know you were fine. That you were his everything and the thought of losing you killed him and even though his vulnerable side broke your heart there was no one else you wanted to wake up to.

When you came home, he’d set you a space in your bed, made sure you were more than comfortable and had everything you needed whilst giving you time to heal. Promising you that you didn’t need to worry about a thing as he had it under control and the only help he’d had was from his mum who came to stay for two nights when he had a game.

If you were superwoman, then he was your superman. Spending long hours training before wrangling two kids and looking after the house but the dark bags under his eyes made you sad and you wished you could do more to help him. He didn’t expect you to though, and wanted you fully better before lifting a finger.

You felt him get heavy as he fell asleep on you, not having the heart to move him as he looked so peaceful and you’d missed his touch so even though it was against the doctors orders you let him sleep cuddled up against you that night. You’d been sleeping throughout the day so even though you were a little bit tired you spent the next twenty minutes just looking at him. Stroking the soft skin of his cheek, kissing his forehead and wondering how you got so lucky to have this beautiful man all to yourself.

The next day everyone was up and out before you had a chance to wake up. Tilly was apparently furious that Ollie got to spend the day with Mason and had refused to leave until Debbie had coaxed her out by telling her she got a special ride in nanny’s car and she then went without fuss. You made sure to send Debbie a quick thank you text to let her know how grateful you were that she’d come to help in your hour of need before letting Sid know you were bored and she promised to come over after lunch to keep you company.

‘He really has been so good, Sid’ you told her, picking out a nail colour from the bag she bought over before she took your hand and began to shape your nails. ‘He’s got them up in the morning, made sure they’ve got where they needed to be. Got the home again, made dinner, bathed them all whilst still going to training and doing what he needs to do and checking in on me every five minutes’

‘Poor man, I bet he’s exhausted’ she laughed

‘You should have seen him last night. He was so tired, bless him he was out like a light’

‘Do you think he has a new appreciation for you now?’

‘Maybe a little bit. I mean don’t get me wrong, he knows how hard I work but I think it’s really hit home this week’

You sat with Sid and gossiped more until Mase came home with the kids, popping his head round with a gentle smile on his face and your heart thumped as you took him in.

‘Hey Sid, you wanna stay for dinner?’

‘I’d love to, but Scott’s got an event I said I’d tag along to and if I don’t get going I’ll be late’ she pouted, gathering her stuff and after a quick goodbye she was gone.

You were starting to go crazy, looking at the same four walls all day and it was suspiciously quiet outside so you got up as quietly as you could, walking out into the hallway in hopes of finding someone but all you could hear was the sound of the bathroom tap.

You walked towards it, noticing the light was on before you heard Mason's voice and thankfully from the angle you were you could see him giving Tilly a bath but they couldn’t see you.

‘Is that nice tills?’ Mason asked gently, slowly massaging her head as he worked the shampoo into her hair. She didn’t respond but you knew she was loving it, her eyes half open as her mouth formed the most adorable little ‘o’. Letting Mason gently relax her muscles. ‘Mumma always gives me the best head massages when I’ve not had a good day’

Your heart sunk at his words. Why had she had a bad day? From what you could see right now she looked fine, better than fine even as he went to grab the shower head and wash all the soap out, making sure to shield her eyes as she hated getting water in them.

‘How’s that knee baby?’ He asked, popping some conditioner in her hair before looking down at where she was pointing.

‘Hurts daddy’

‘I know baby, you’re so brave though. Took it like a right champ from what I heard’ he told her and your heart fluttered at her adorable little giggle. ‘But when you’re feeling all better again-‘

‘Mummy!’ Tilly suddenly interrupted. Your plan of staying hidden clearly not working as she’d seen your reflection in the mirror so you went in. Masons face a picture as you carefully made your way over to them.

‘Hello bubba’

‘What are you doing out of bed?’ Mason asked. A smile on his face as he looked up at you but you just shrugged trying to play it off.

‘Just fancied a little walk’ you smiled before looking down at Tilly’s knee. A bright red graze now adorning her skin and you felt awful. ‘What happened?’

‘Someone got tackled by one of the bigger boys at lunch today when they were all playing football’ Mason explained, trying to keep his tone light but you could tell he was angry.

‘Do we know who?’’

‘No, but when I find out I swear-‘

‘Mason’ you interrupted with a slight laugh as his cheeky eyes were on you immediately. ‘They’re three, babe. He probably didn’t mean it’

‘I don’t know, love. Some of those kids are massive. I don’t know what people feed them these days to make them so tall’ he laughed, rinsing out the last of the conditioner before reaching for Tilly’s towel. ‘But what I was trying to say before was. When you’re feeling better, you gotta get back out there okay? Don’t let this make you not wanna play anymore. I fall over all the time when I play, you just gotta get back up’ he told her, placing a kiss to her forehead before helping her stand so he could wrap her up and gently lift her out.

‘You guys got any wild Friday night plans?’ You laughed holding onto Mason so you could pull yourself up too and you almost burst into tears as Tilly placed her little hand on your cheek softly.

‘Think just story time like usual once Ollie’s had his bath and then I’ll come join you’

‘I miss story time’ you pouted, until you suddenly had an idea. ‘Why don’t you all come in our room for story time so I can join in’ you beamed, hoping Mason would agree but he didn’t look too convinced.

‘I don’t know baby, you’re still pretty fragile and I don’t want you getting hurt’

‘I’ll be fine, Mase, pleaseeee. I miss you guys’ you told him, sadness evident in your voice and it didn’t take much to convince him. He never wanted to upset you.

‘Go get back into bed mumma. I’ll bring them in soon, yeah?’

‘Thank you Masey’ you whispered, kissing him softly before dropping a kiss on Tilly’s forehead. ‘See you soon okay?’ You told her and she nodded back at you with an excited smile.

Time seemed to be going slower than usual and you were almost asleep again when you heard a knock at the door. Looking up to see your perfect little family stood ready and waiting for you.

‘Come on then’ Mason encouraged, leading them inside before hoisting them up next to you. Ollie taking the space under your arm that you extended out for him and you couldn’t help but pull him into your side and litter his head with tiny kisses.

‘Missed you buddy’ you told him quietly, your heart bursting when he lent up to kiss your cheek softly. Silently letting you know he’d missed you too. Tilly on the other hand was half asleep already and chose to lay on Mason's chest as she was already comfortable.

You weren’t sure if it was your pain killers wearing off or the fact you were all together again but you could feel the tears springing in your eyes as you all huddled together to listen to Ollie read for you all but you held it in as best you could. Not wanting to ruin the moment but you knew Mason could feel your emotions from across the room so when you felt him link your fingers together that were resting on his thigh from your arm that was behind Ollie, you gently squeezed him to let him know you were okay.

You could tell Tilly was asleep. Her soft snores filling your ears and the sound was making you drift off yourself but you didn't want to miss out on anything. In the end you settled for shutting your eyes but still listening to Ollie’s words.

‘I think the girls might be tired,’ Mason told Ollie quietly. Thinking you couldn’t hear but you could. ‘Let me go put Tilly to bed and I’ll come back for you. Do you think you could help mummy lay down?’ He asked when you felt a little hand on your shoulder, you opened your bleary eyes to see Ollie’s face.

‘Come on mum, it’s bedtime’ he told you gently, encouraging you to shuffle down until you were flat and once you were you held out your arms to him in hopes he’d want a cuddle.

Ollie was at that age where cuddles from mum were a bit of a no no but thankfully he got himself settled next to you. Head on your chest just like Mason had the night before and you felt your heart settle as you ran a hand through his hair.

‘Are you okay mum?’ He asked carefully, a slight wobble in his voice and when you looked down his eyes were full of unshed tears.

‘I’m okay baby. What’s the matter?’ You asked, concern filling your voice

‘I was just a bit worried’ he told you.

Tilly was obviously too young to understand what had happened to you but Ollie was older and had clearly been carrying the weight of you being sick on his shoulders. Your heart broke for the little boy in your arms as you held him even tighter to let him know what he was feeling was okay but the little sobs coming from him made you want to cry yourself.

‘Baby you’ve got nothing to be worried about. I’m all better now I promise. I bet it was just a little scary though huh?’ You asked, feeling him nod into your neck and you knew that’s all it was.

He was scared thinking he’d nearly lost you.

‘I’m sorry baby, there’s nothing to be scared of anymore though okay? I’m still here and daddy’s said you’ve been such a big help to him and with Tilly. I’m so proud of you’ you whispered, pulling back in hopes he’d look at you but his red eyes and blotchy cheeks just made you hurt even more. ‘When I’m better we can have an Ollie and mummy day yeah? They’ve just opened that new big arcade in town we can try out and get some lunch there. It’s right by that big book shop you love too. Does that sound good?’

‘Yeah’ he sniffed, a smile finally on his face and you lent down to press a kiss to his forehead.

‘Love you, little man’

‘Love you mum’

‘Hey, what’s all the tears for’ you suddenly heard, looking up to see Mason coming back to get Ollie but he was clearly surprised to find the pair of you upset. ‘I asked you to help her get into bed not to terrorise each other’

‘Don’t Mase’ you laughed, letting him crawl in so the pair of you could sandwich Ollie in between the pair of you, your heart skipping a beat as you felt Ollie nestling into your neck.

‘Are you two okay?’ He asked, and you looked down to Ollie but could tell he wanted to keep it between the two of you.

‘We’re fine, just a little tired’ you told him, gently pressing a kiss to Ollie’s head

‘Shall we go get you into bed then little man?’

You squeezed Ollie extra tightly, kissing his head repeatedly in order to get him to smile and you didn’t stop until you heard his little giggles and your heart finally settled.

‘Night baby’ you whispered’ popping one last kiss on his cheek before he did the same to you.

‘Night mum’ he whispered before following Mason out to his own room.

By the time Mason made it back you were just about nod off and the last thing you remember before you let the sleep overtake you was Mason's lips on your forehead and his soft voice telling you he loved you.

The next morning you could hear giggles coming from downstairs and you smiled at the sound. You’d slept in longer than you’d meant to but you clearly needed it so after listening in a bit more you hauled yourself up to make your way down to join your family.

‘What’s going on in here then’ you asked as you rounded the corner. Catching the three of them covered in flour as they were rolling something into balls in their hands and when you looked down to the tray you could see they were making cookies.

‘Morning sunshine’ Mason laughed. ‘We’re making you cookies but don’t worry I’ll get it all cleaned up’ he assured you as Tilly made her way over to you. Hugging you leg and you ran your hand through her hair as you weren’t quite strong enough to lift her yet. ‘I tell you what, Ollie take Tilly up and go get changed. They’ll be ready by the time you’re done’ he told them. The pair of them walking off hand in hand as you made your way over to a dusty Mason.

‘Cookies for breakfast huh?’ You laughed, resting your hands on his waist as he cupped your jaw and his bright eyes made you smile back at him widely.

‘I’m running out of ideas, can’t you tell’ he joked, resting his forehead on yours as you shared a peaceful moment. ‘You know you’re never allowed to be sick again babe. I can’t do this all the time. And you’re never allowed to leave me. I can barely cope without you’

‘Oh yeah’ you laughed, hands coming to grip his wrists gently and the smile that made its way onto his lips took your breath away. ‘Anything else?’

‘I’m just trying to cover all eventualities’

‘I promise you Mason, you’re stuck with me. For life’

‘Nothing to me has ever sounded better’ he whispered, finally connecting your lips.

I hope you enjoyed 🩷 I’d really love some feedback so please let me know what you think 😌

[andreafmn]

12 Days of Ficmas ❅ Day 4

Word Count: 1.6K Paring:  Lip Gallagher x Fem!Reader Prompt @a-cure-for-writers-block:  mothering their S/Os younger siblings and making sure they're getting enough to eat

Summary:  Lip Gallagher has had a hell of a year, and most of the time he doesn't think he deserve the mercy he's been shown. But (Y/N) will stop at nothing to make sure he and his family know they are taken care of. And he knows it.

A/N: a bit late, but still published. Also, this is very short and sweet and does not follow the canon after season 5. Kind of went off path to give Lip a bit of a quicker redemption. Hope y'all enjoy!

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“Yo, Lip,” Ian’s sleepy voice rang through his brother’s phone. “Uh, your girlfriend is over here, and I think she’s gone crazy.” 

“What you mean?” Lip chuckled as he rubbed his hands together to warm them up. “‘Cause that’s a lot coming from you.” 

“Very funny,” he laughed sarcastically. “No, but she made Christmas puke on the house, and she’s been cooking nonstop since this morning. She hounded us all morning until we ate breakfast and wouldn’t stop until we sat down at the table.” ” 

Lip couldn’t help the smile that crept onto his face as he pictured his girlfriend with her face dirtied by food, her hair tied back and away from her face, and her voice carrying around the house as she made sure everyone had eaten. It was one of the things he loved about her and one of the reasons he was glad she had come into his life. “Look, I’ll be home soon,” he chuckled. “Can you just make sure she actually eats? I know she’s gonna forget.” 

“Fine,” Ian groaned. “Just hurry up.” 

(Y/N) had come into Lip’s life at a moment when he was sure his life would have gone down the rails. She has become his sense of normalcy in his less-than-normal life. He had needed something to ground him back to earth, and that was exactly what she had done. After being so close to rock bottom he could taste the soil on the ground, she had been the only one that had been able to bring him back to his feet.  

As he got off the L, he wondered what she could have ever seen in him. She was smart and beautiful and a complete juxtaposition to the man he was. She was sunshine where he was rain, she was happiness where he was gloom, she was future while he was stuck in the past. And she was everything he never thought he needed. 

The moment he reached the house, he could hear the chatter from his family and the smell of (Y/N)’s cooking. Inside, Liam, Carl, and Ian were hypnotized by the TV while (Y/N) and Debbie talked away in the kitchen. 

Ian had not lied. The Gallagher house had been decorated like it had never been before. From garlands to stockings above the fireplace, to a massive Christmas tree in front of the stairs, it was a scene that had never lived inside that house. “Yo, you weren’t kidding, huh?” Lip chuckled as he shook off his jacket. “Didn’t think we’d ever have these many decorations.” 

“And presents,” Carl grinned. “Check under the tree.” 

Just like his younger brother had pointed, under the pine rested a couple of boxes wrapped in kraft paper. Each of them had every one of the Gallagher’s names written on them and a glittering red bow around them. It truly was more than Lip could have ever expected.  

“Ian, did she eat something?” 

“Yeah,” he said. “She’s also been pecking at everything she’s doing.”

“Alright, thanks.”

Taking the scenery in, Lip walked into the kitchen to find (Y/N) wearing a dirty apron and plates balanced on her arms. 

“You’re home,” she smiled, kissing his cheek as she walked past him to give the three boys each a plate. “Good. There’s a plate for you in the microwave. I made some turkey sandwiches for lunch. Light enough to not fill you guys up for dinner but strong enough to tide you over until then.” 

“Thanks, (Y/N),” the boys chorused before digging into their sandwiches and focusing back on the TV. 

“This is so good, (Y/N),” Debbie exclaimed from the breakfast table. “I don’t know how you’re not studying to be a chef.” 

“I cook for fun, not for work,” the young woman smiled. “That’s what engineering school is for.” 

“I’m just saying,” she shrugged. “If the genius stuff doesn’t work out, you could definitely be a chef.” 

“Thank you, Debs,” (Y/N) responded. “And speaking of school, how was your last final, babe? I know this semester has been a bit hard.”

Understatement of the century, Lip had thought. He couldn’t understand how he had not been expelled after everything he had done the year before. He had been so close to losing it all. Had it not been for (Y/N) stopping him before he smashed Youens car and speaking up on his behalf at the disciplinary meeting, he was sure he would have gotten a worse punishment than a semester suspension. She had been the saving grace he didn’t know he needed, and she was the reason he understood he needed help. 

Lip had inherited more than a hard life from his parents, he’d fallen victim to their addictive genetics and gone off the deep end with a bottle of liquor in hand. But somehow, she had been there to pull him up while he was down and walk beside him as he got back onto the right path. She stayed with him as he rebuilt himself into the man people believed he was. 

“I think it went pretty well,” he said before taking a bite of his sandwich. “Won’t know until after the break, but if midterms were anything to go by, I did good.” 

“That’s good. I’m pretty sure you did very well,” she smiled as she sat beside him, placing a hand on his and a coffee cup in front of his plate. “And I know you’re tired, but I’m gonna need you to help me prep the table for dinner tonight. Kev, V, and the girls are coming over. Fiona can’t make it, but she’ll try for actual Christmas Day or New Year's.” 

“You’ve got everything planned out already, don’t you?” Lip chuckled. “Not that I am surprised in any way, shape or form.” 

“I would have told you earlier, but I wanted you to focus on your exams,” she said before turning to the boys in the living room. “Hey, guys! Remember to wash your dishes when you’re done! I’m gonna need them for tonight.” 

“Yes, (Y/N),” they chorused back. 

“You got them very well trained,” Debbie laughed. “Where have you been all our lives?” 

“Just on the other side of town,” the girl smiled. “Now hurry and finish eating. We’ve got work to do.” 

After everyone finished their lunch and the how was suddenly dispersed of children, (Y/N) and Lip set off to work. While she waltzed around the kitchen, he rearranged the formal dining area to fit all the guests. As he walked around the house, the young man wanted to laugh. He remembered a time when that type of domesticity would have sent him running, searching for the easiest way to drown his fears of commitment and stability. But there he was, setting tables for a dinner party that his girlfriend had cooked, and he didn’t feel the jittery need to escape. He didn’t feel the anxious desire to feel alcohol burn its way down his throat and fill him with a mirage of confidence. He wanted to stay. 

“Hey,” he whispered after he had finished his task, snaking his arms around her waist and kissing her cheeks. “Thanks for doing this.” 

“Of course,” she smiled, leaning into the comfort and warmth of his touch. “Do you think there’s enough food I don’t know if I should set out some snacks for the kids while the turkey is finished. Maybe dinner is too late for Jemma and Amy. I should set some snacks out.” 

“(Y/N), baby,” he chuckled. Lip flipped her around, kissing her lips softly to stop her rambling. “There’s enough food, and they should be starving by dinner. You worked hard enough on all these dishes, they need to be eaten.” 

“And they will, but…” 

“You really enjoy mommying them, don’t you?” Lip grinned lovingly. “You know they’re not kids anymore –other than Liam. The other ones are all teenagers, they know how to get food when they’re hungry.” 

“I know that. But I just wanna make sure they know there’s someone here that cares about them other than you now that Fiona’s gone,” she admitted, her eyes falling onto the hands she pressed to his chest. “And I want them to like me, Lip. I’m in it for the long run, babe.” 

“If there’s one thing I can assure you, it’s that the Gallagher family loves you,” he smiled. His hand caressed her cheek softly, and it surprised him that only a year before, his knuckles would have been ripped and bloodied. But not with her. Never with her. “And if you keep cooking like this for them, they’ll make sure you’re here forever.” 

“And what about you? Would you want me to stay forever?” 

Lip couldn’t help the smile that spread across his mouth. As he stared into her eyes, it took everything inside him not to spoil the plans he had for Christmas morning. He wanted to give her all the reassurance she could need with the ring he had hidden deep in his underwear drawer. But when he had a plan, it was hard to divert from it. “How could I want anything else?” he grinned. “Now, why don’t we finish up here so we can have a little treat before dinner ourselves?” 

“Philip Gallagher,” she exclaimed at his advance, slapping his chest playfully. “I have too much work to do to be thinking about that.” 

“Come on, I’ve only been thinking about this all day,” he groaned. “It’s the only thing that got me through that test.” 

“Then you can wait a bit more,” she laughed. “I promise I’ll make it worth your while, baby. All good things come to those who wait.” 

And, at that moment, she had no idea how much truth there was in that statement. 

Next ->

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[mickeym4ndy]

utterly wild to me that Mickey and Monica never met.

Cuz like, he'd prob be as indifferent towards her as he is to Frank.... until Ian is diagnosed and then Monica is just a big reminder of what could happen to Ian if he stops treatment etc. And her manic episodes would have such similar energy to Ian's that it would be so painful for him to watch...

Ooh yea Mickey and Monica is an interesting thought. I think she’d like him. Monica is in general really nice to people and isn’t outwardly cruel, and I feel like she’d be sooo excited to meet Ian’s boyfriend and just want to be his friend or something.

But yea I think Mickey would hate her tbh, if we’re thinking in a world where they met after s5 (bc I do think he’d be generally indifferent to her before that like u said). I think it would be more about her treatment of Ian than anything else though. Like I think Mickey would struggle with her because her episodes would be a reminder of Ian’s, but I don’t think he’d hate her for that. It would just worry him.

I think he’d hate her because of the shit she’s put Ian through. He’d hate her because he knows she’s the one that got Ian involved in dancing at the clubs underage, because she’s the one who left Ian and endangered him repeatedly, because she’s the one who gets Ian’s hopes up only to leave again, because she took Ian away from his family when he needed help, because she convinced Ian that he didn’t need help, because she was the one that caused Ian to push him away, because she had him living in a crack house and getting with older guys when he was underage and did nothing to stop it.

I think in an alternate reality where Monica had lived, Ian would always end up wanting to help her because how could he not? And Mickey would really struggle to understand it. He’d be like “look at what she put you through she doesn’t deserve u constantly doing this for her when she won’t help herself.” I think it’s easier for him in canon to understand Ian’s love for her since he never met her, but if he had, he’d probably struggle with Ian and Monica having a relationship because she caused Ian to leave him in the first place and she’s put him through hell. Which is interesting because Mickey has a loyalty to Terry that Ian can’t understand.

Ian really struggles to understand why on earth Mickey would have any loyalty to Terry, the father that abused him and made his life a living hell. But still, Mickey has a need for Terrys approval and a loyalty to Terry that he can’t explain. And Ian clearly does not understand it, yet he has such a love for Monica despite everything she put him through. (Obviously the situations were different, but they both have love for their abusive parent they can’t let go of). And (in this reality) Mickey struggles to understand Ian’s loyalty to Monica, even though he himself has a loyalty to Terry.

If Monica had lived, it would’ve been really interesting to see Mickey and Ian try to navigate all that. Ian hating that Mickey still has a relationship with Terry and that he does so much for him, while he himself still has a relationship with Monica. And also Mickey hating the fact that Ian does so much for Monica and has a loyalty to her, while he does so much for Terry and has a loyalty to him.

If u ask me, Terry’s death actually could’ve been a chance for them to explore this in canon. Would’ve given Ian’s coldness towards Mickey after Terry died more meaning and actually made it make sense. Like maybe he’s complaining to Debbie because he can’t understand why Mickey would miss Terry and Debbie says “well don’t you miss Monica?” and it could’ve gone from there.

Again I know Terry and Monica are very different. Monica’s abuse is more of a byproduct of her behaviour, while Terry actively chooses to abuse and terrorize his kids. But the way their children view them is similar, so it’s interesting.

thanks for sending this! apologies for the long answer lol

[voids-ideas]

Ok I thought it would be funny if i do this now and when i finish the show, so

Shameless characters and how much i like them

I'm in the middle of E4 S4 because I'm afraid every time Carl has time on screen

Mickey: What? He has the best lines. And what, he's trying to make a union!!

Mandy: I love her, since the fucking first time i saw her. She's so... She tried so fucking much, and well... She deserves so much

Ian: Oh, Ian. There's only one thing i hate about you, and it's your fucking desire to be in the military. I can forgive you because it's fictional but... shit

Carl: I'm terrified. The first season every time he was on screen something terrible happened. It hasn't changed so much. But now it's so much evident how fucking left out he is. Fuck

Debbie: Baby, i understand why you want to grow up su much but i want to stop you so fucking much too. But I don't think there's a way of stopping it. She's been acting like an adult since the first episode

Fiona: Oh, I know. I understand everything so much, but that doesn't make me love her. She's trying, but sometimes trying isn't enough

V: I don't hate her. I don't love her

Lip: Idk, he has moments but... he also has some really bad ones

Kev: Interesting character, but... My reason to like him is the love for kids. And i don't like kids

Sheila: She's... something. And I love the way she tries to be good so much

Steve: Not my type again. Like, was he a little good for them? Yeah. Do i like him? No

Karen: Idk, just... not my style?

Frank: I hate him. He's somehow half decent this season. Doesn't make me stop hating him

[iangallagherisadeadman]

shameless hot takes

i kind of dig the way lip ended up as a failure. i know a lot of people hate what the show did to him, how he never lived up to his potential (the same way they do it to rory gilmore) but like. that happens. lifes just like that. sometimes people who have had everything to live with grandiosity end up ruining everything up, and lips life was HARD and it SUCKED so him failing its kind of expectable i think. and its not like lips life ended, mans not even 30 and hes not just smart hes a genius, he will end up turning the table and coming straight to the top, i believe so.

frank doesn't love his children. i know people like to think frank was somewhat nice sometimes and that he was troubled but he loved the gallaghers his own way but i dont think he really did. he didnt even knew them. he was just too selfish and a narcissist and not even once a "act of love" was genuine or didnt have a gain for him or was somewhat for his benefit or interest.

of all plots, i believe gay jesus was the worst. i tried to remeber every other plot of the show and dont get me wrong the frank and his buddy pal mickey oshea SUCKED and i love ian hes my favorite character but what the fuck was that. the idea is really nice but it took so long to convey this arc of mania of him and it just was really badly written and executed and later it doesn't have importance to the plot. no surprise cameron monaghan wanted to skip shameless after that.

gallavich is not a healthy goal relationship. i mean yeah, they do love each other and they are good to each other, and i will excuse them for all the shit they did as teenagers cause they seemed to forgive each other and grow from it and i dont think they knew best but as adults they dont fucking communicate and mick broke ians leg like common. also most of time ian just seems to regret having married mick is really frustrating. i genuinely dont understand how that happened cause gallavich was all the writes had to milk and serve for the last seasons and they still fucked it up.

debbie is a rapist. she just is. just like sheila is too, i believe, and frank, and mandy, and jody, and estefania (i dont think jimmysteve is tho). they practiced nonconsensual sex and thats rape, end of story. i know the deborah debate is kind of hot ground and everybody has a different opinion about it cause she was young and didnt have the proper sex ed. but she did it not once, but twice AFTER facing consequences and getting to educate herself about what she did and why that was wrong, and i believe she would do it again if she had the motivation like she did on those circumstances. not saying matty or derick were cool guys, fuck them, matty wanted to go out with an underage girl when he met debbie and he kept going out with her after knowing she was much younger than he first thought and derick know that having sex can lead to having a baby and he and his family should have tried to be better to franny, but still they didnt deserved to by lied and abused by deb.

the gallaghers house should be debbie and carl's to decide what to do. the house is in fionas name, that much is true, but it is clear they kept contact with fiona at the begging of season 10 as she calls debbie to know about freddie and at that hall of fame episode too, so that much wouldn't be a problem. also, as fiona left, she left debbie in charge of the house's finances, and i believe the responsibility of what to do with the house is left with debbie too. i dont think fiona would be thrilled with the wouse being sold but she moved on and if her siblings are up to moving on too i dont think she would be opposed to it. that said, she would let the house deed on debbies hand i believe. taking up the fact that debbie is a mom with a little child and no other place to live, the fact she doesnt want to sell the house is comprehensible and i dont think any other gallagher can say its not, even more so lip. they tried to make the decision voting, letting the majority determinate what to do, but i dont think thats fair since lip could very easily get a house to himself and ian and mickey too, they had the money. now, about carl, is simply cause he paid for the house, therefore he should had a say on it. season 6, when the house was going to be sold, no other Gallagher than fiona was really trying to make to money to buy it. when she couldnt, carl saved the day and gave the money, and fiona was reluctant but she had no other option than to accept it, otherwise they would lose the house. even though the house is in fionas name like she likes to make it very clear, it is carls, and if he wanted to he could have put it in someone elses name, not lip cause he's in debt cause of the credit cards he has gotten to pay college, but he could have made it ians or anyone elses. he didnt cause he respects family and he respects fiona. since the house is his, and he also didnt really had any other place like debbie, they both should make the decision together.

fiona fucking sucks. i know a lot of people hates her and a lot loves her, and theres people in here that knows shes middle ground just like basically everybody on the show, which is called SHAMELESS for a reason. and i can agree with everybody. my point here is that she did nice things and stupid things and i dont hate her or love her for them, nor do i think all is forgiven because of her trauma or that shes number one worst character of the show. i think she sucks, think that she was wrong for all the liam shit, that she is an agent of chaos, that she was a bad girlfriend for all of her boyfriends just like they were bad for her (except mike he rocks), i think she make some of them worst really; i understand her desire to grown and be someone but i think it was risky to put the gallaghers house on the line so she could open the laundry (even more so cause i dont really consider it hers but carls), i understand how at some point she wanted to grow and take care of herself and be less of an parent in her sibling's life cause if she took care of herself since she was nine i think her siblings could try and take care of each other and their own ass a little so she could start living but the way she didnt really helped ian, the way she shut down debbie and was sad when debbie shuted her down, the way she left carl to his white boy fase without as much as trying and the way she said to them put VERONICA and KEVIN first at their emergency call before her was insane and she should be dragged for it idc. she was always mean to her siblings romantic interests too and that really bugs me cause mandy put lip in college and mickey cared for ian.

lip fucking sucks. most people here think the similarity between lip and frank starts and finishes on alcoholism and appearance but i think its more than that, i think both of them are narcissistic motherfuckers. i cant think of a single time lip put effort in anything for any other reason than to satisfy himself. it is the most evident when you think about his relationships SPECIALLY tami and fred, but if you think about his desire to be a father, the way he treated fiona when she was down, the whole sierra fiasco and how he treated her sons daddy, the karen ian thing; he even said that he helps his alcoholic friends because he thinks that if they cant do it then certainly lip himself won't be able to do it. i cant hold ian to the same parameters, i only think deb fiona and carl are really there for each other but ian gets a pass cause hes just selfish to some extent. he is bipolar and shit went down when he was still a child; still, joining the army and sending no news was a dick move and when he was good and on his meds and working as an EMT i think he wasnt really there for his family, tho he cared for mandy. cant really say much cause most of the time he was out of himself or in jail.

[ladymarycrawley]

Beautiful boy part 2 - Mason Mount

Request: Can you do a part 2 where the next day while mason sleeps in and he is the only one to not have breakfast yet; you guys go over all the pictures and videos since he was little and such. You gush over them sm and picture if your baby boy will look the same as Mase when he will be born as Mason’s genes are strong. You and his family joke that your baby boy will come out as Mason’s twin and will look the same as baby mason and you will birth his carbon copy. When mason comes down all sleepy and sees what you guys do, he starts to whine and “threatens” you again and starts joking but you take it seriously and because of the hormons you start to cry and shake. His mum scolds him and they try to calm you down. Mase is so protective over you and comes by your side in an instant and just hugs and kisses you and whispering sweet nothings to you to calm down.

You can read part 1 here 🥰

Warning: anything worth mentioning I guess apart from some cuteness overload

Tag list: @masonxomount @chelsealover @masterclassbaby​​

You didn’t wish to end your night any different from how it did: you and Mason cuddling each other on your bed as you, a little drowsy, were trying to fight your sleep to pay attention to all of your boyfriend's talking that went from your plans for the next day to the sweet nothings he kept on whispering into your ear and against your belly, by way of ranting about the name you should have given your baby.

He just stopped when you let out a loud yawn, snuggling closer to his chest and kindly asked him to resume the conversation the next day. Mason stayed silent for a moment, glancing down to your peacefully sleeping face against him and smiled, love overwhelming him.

"Sleep tight, baby girl" He whispered as his thumb brushed over your cheek and his lips got closer to yours in a soft, feather-like kiss.

The next morning you were the first one to wake up and you were all smiles while staring at him sleeping deeply. You would have liked to see that relaxed expression on his face everyday because that meant everything was okay. His slightly parted mouth caused your smile to grow even wider. God, what if your baby looked exactly like him? He would have been the most gorgeous baby ever.

That thought sent a shiver down your spine as well as goosebumps all over your skin. The journey you were going through bigger than you and a constant rollercoaster.

You leaned down carefully, in order not to wake him up, to place a first gentle kiss against his lips then a second one on his forehead. Stop looking at him was impossible as he looked like an angel while fast asleep, he needed some well deserved rest with the hectic life he had to face everyday. You brushed his exposed tattooed arm before leaving and closing the door behind you.

"Good morning sweetheart" Debbie cheerfully welcomed you in the living room as you were making your way down the stairs.

"Hi everyone" You smiled back, taking your seat at the table.

"Is your baby daddy still asleep?" Lewis teasingly asked you, wiggling his eyebrows. 

Nobody knew about those two nicknames, baby mummy and baby daddy, you secretly used for each other but his brother somehow knew it and you couldn’t help but blush violently.

"Lew really? Mind your own business"

He chuckled, hugging you and pressing a kiss against your cheek.

"She knows I'm just joking"

"Don't ever let it slip out of your mouth in front of him" You playfully warned him.

"You should have been quieter the other day…but don't worry, I won't" He winked mischievously: he wouldn't have missed the chance to tease Mason for the world.

"Debbie, I was wondering…" You felt a little embarrassed to ask for it out of the blue but you didn't stop thinking about baby Mase since last night.

"Yes, love?"

"How was Mason as a baby? I saw a few pics of him but tonight I started wondering how he was really like"

"Oh dear, he's the same as he's now: always happy and smiley…but I'm biased"

You and your mother-in-law shared a laugh and in that moment she read your mind asking you if you wanted to see some pictures. In a few minutes photo albums were sprawled all over the table, Summer looking curious about who that boy was and she squealed in surprise when her mum told her it was her beloved uncle Macey.

You were all smiles while looking at those pictures of him kicking the ball around, wearing a Brazil jersey. Then you all bursted out laughing when Debbie showed you a pic of him in a silly Halloween costume. 

"Look at him! That's the man you're having a child with" Lewis joked.

"And so? He's so cute!" Your cheeks were aching from all the smiling you had been doing that morning. The love you were surrounded by was thr most valuable thing ever, it was like living in a little bubble of happiness.

Your heart shattered when your glance fell on some pics of newborn Mason, in his cot, fresh from the hospital. 

"He was so tiny" His mother recalled with the most loving expression on her face.

"I wonder if our baby will look like him…"

"I hope not!"

"Lewis come on!"

"Yes, I mean I think he will be the perfect mix of you two"

"Well, I hope he doesn't have our nose at least"

"Why?? I love your nose…okay that sounds weird"

Your line made everyone laugh but you really meant it, you thought one of Mason's sexiest features was his nose which made his side profile irresistible but you couldn’t state it in front of his family, of course.

"I think he'll be like Mason's carbon copy, you will birth his twin" Jaz joked, holding the photo album in her hands.

"That's a bit scary" You chuckled, still fantasising about what your future baby boy will look like. “I mean, he will be a beautiful baby if he takes after Mason but, I don’t know…”

“That’s okay love, a baby is a major shift in a couple’s life so you still have to wrap your head around it. The important thing is that he’ll be a healthy baby”

“Yeah mum but he’s also has to be a beautiful baby”

“Oh Lewis, really? Stop with all that nonsense” You all giggled at his joke as Jasmine playfully scolded him before stopping as Mason entered the room.

"Fuck, I can't believe you're really doing this" He whined with his voice still raspy from sleep as he got downstairs, getting closer to the living room table where Debbie was sharing with you all those memories printed on film.

The morning light was too bright for him to keep his eyes open so the sight of him strugglingto keep his eyes open to the sunlight, his messy hair made you soft.

“Uncle Macey!!” Summer squealed as soon as her favourite uncle came in sight.

“Watch your language, honey” His mum admonished him softly.

“You were the most beautiful baby!”

“There’s some embarrassing things I’d rather you not see” 

“Oh Mase, we all had embarrassing moments during our childhood”

“Well, I hope you never had that Justin Bieber like haircut, at least” Lewis made fun of his younger brother referring to those pictures of him at Chelsea academy where he had longer hair.

His jab made everyone present in the room laugh except for Mason who matched his sleepy eyes with an annoyed grin. He loved being in your company as family was the most important thing to him but he didn’t expect to find you all gushing over him or laughing at funny pictures of him while he was still asleep and unaware.

“Good to know that I’m a joke to you, you’re just jealous of me because I’ve always been the coolest baby in the family”

“Summer is the coolest in the family, aren’t you baby?” Jaz asked his own daughter, making her giggle.

“I was the one in my time” He muttered, sipping on his coffee.

He was still a child sometimes and that never failed to make you smile, that side of him was so endearing to you.

You pressed a soft kiss against his shoulder before laying your head on it. Mason moved his head to look at you, smiling against your hairline before leaving a peck there.

“How are you? Did you sleep well?” He asked considerately, his hand already reaching for your bump under the table.

“Yes, he kicked a bit more than usual but I’m fine”

Mason smiled and pressed a kiss to your temple, before stealing one of your chocolate cookies from your plate as they were the craving you woke up with that morning.

"You broke our vow"

"What vow?" You didn't know why but his serious tone frightened you, did you really break some promise you made him, hence making him angry?

"The one about my baby pics so no more massages for you"

"But I'm in pain! My whole body aches" You whined as he giggled, getting slightly on your nerves. “You can’t be this mean”

"You should have thought about it, hun" He bit on the biscuit as you were clearly falling apart as the hormones were taking over you. The mischievous smirk plastered on his face made your blood boil, nothing about what was going on was funny to you and he was there laughing at you?? That was so inconsiderate you expected him to be a little more careful with you .

"Stop being mean to me" Tears started rolling down your cheeks as you tried to defend yourself from his attack but your hormones decided you had to make it more dramatic than it actually was so trembling was added to your cry.

Jaz and Debbie glared at him even though he was already by your side comforting you.

“Hey babe, what’s wrong? I was joking!” Mason was seriously worried for you, he feared he might have hurt you for real. The fact that you wouldn't look at him but just keep your teary stare down while sobbing made his heart break: all of that was because of him, that was the worst thing.

"Shut up, Mase" 

"But I was just joking! Babe come on, you know it" He tried to get closer to you but his sister pushed him away. 

"Let her breathe for a moment"

"I just want to make sure she's alright!"

"She'll be, love but just let her take a breathe for now" His mum tried to aak him more kindly than his sister did.

Mason was about to snap at his mother and sister but instead he decided it was better to count to ten to let his anger blow off before doing something he would have regretted. As a consequence, he went to finish having his breakfast in the kitchen, as you probably needed some time for yourself or some girl time as his mum and sister were still by your side consoling you.

His heart couldn’t take the sight of you crying, he couldn’t let you be in that state and go so he ignored what his mum asked him and came back in the living room to show you he would have always been there no matter what.

Mason stood behind your chair and lowered himself to hug you, letting his arms wrap around your shoulders.

His nose tickled your ear and your cheek as well as his breathing over your neck. It was the best feeling in the world to have him that close to you.

He sighed before placing a lingering kiss against your temple.

“I’m sorry, you’ll still get all the massages you want” He started whispering sweet nothings into your ear so only you could hear him as what you were sharing was an intense moment of love.

You smiled and let out a weak laugh as an answer to his words while all his family, who was still sitting at the table with you, got up to leave the privacy such a moment would need.

“I would never hurt you, never. I love you so much, you and and the baby are my everything. We're gonna spend the whole day looking at ridiculously tiny, cute clothes for him and I'll keep quiet the whole time, I swear” He joked and you could feel the grin that had been forming on his lips through his voice.

Mason’s speech brought tears to your eyes, happy ones this time as your heart was bursting with love for him.

“I love you, I love you”

You smiled, placing your hands over his arm still around your figure and took a deep breath.

“I love you too, Mase. So much”

You shared a moment of meaningful silence then, him giving you some kisses every now and then.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes”

“Are you sure?”

You nodded, placing a kiss on his forearm before he broke the embrace to help you up from your chair.

“What about going for a walk? Uhm?” He asked you, his eyes a bit shiny.

“Yeah but what about the Xmas shopping your mum -”

“Forget about that, we’re going baby shopping” He smiled, wiggling his eyebrows. “I’ll tell her now, don’t worry and don’t worry about letting her down, I know you” He smiled and you smiled back at him as it was what really was crossing your mind right now and he knew that, he always knew everything flashing through your mind. He was amazing.

“Okay, I’ll go get ready then”

“Good girl”

“Don’t tease now” You whined in a whisper as you didn’t want no one from his family to hear you begging him not to call you what he would do in bed as it would have been highly embarrassing as it happened with the baby mummy/baby daddy moment earlier.

The moment you entered your shared bedroom to get some warm but comfy clothes to wear you let out a loud sigh as if you could finally let go of all the tension built up that morning.

Your eyes fell then on the eternity ring on your finger. That shiny circle around your ring finger somehow calmed you down, as if it reminded you how your love for him was the most important thing in your life and that challenging moment you were going through was just something temporary that didn’t deserve your time nor your energy and that shouldn’t have spoiled your relationship with him, even though you were perfectly aware you being rather whimsical wasn’t something you were doing on purpose.

You also knew he knew that and loved you no matter what. You were still his baby girl after all and nothing would have changed that.

“Baby girl, you ready to go?”

[spacerangersam]

If, in an alternative universe, Yonderland wasn't cancelled abruptly after the Christmas special and instead got renewed for a 4th series/season or at least the Six Idiots instead wanted to continue it one last time, what kind of storylines would you personally like to have seen explored in that hypothetical 4th series/season and why?

I've been thinking of a hypothetical 4th season for like a week now, so thank you for the chance to talk about it!

The main thing I would love to see, and basically what the entire season would be centred around in my mind, is Debbie becoming an Elder like her father! I think it'd be a nice way for her to connect with the dad she never got to meet, and just a way to cement that she'll always have a home in Yonderland/prove just how important she is to everyone there. It would be especially sweet if she could have her father's old robe and broach but idk if that would even be possible.

And I think it could have led to some interesting situations/episodes, ie:

an episode where Debbie has to go on a fetch quest to get some item that's needed to become an Elder. The Elders claim all who wish to join the council must go on this perilous quest, but after a bit of needling, they admit yeah, no, we just lost it and we need you to go get it. I would love for Negaus to get involved, like, he's determined to stop her and ruin everything- but he's bad at it and keeps accidentally helping Debbie. She doesn't realise that until the end, and when she does she's just like 'Oh! Thanks! Want to come to the ceremony? :)'. He does, he was just throwing a hissy fit because he didn't get an invitation. (Ho-Tan did send one, she just got his name wrong and it ended up with a Nagetus instead)

(Honestly, I just really want a Negatus arc where he does completely become a good guy who just awkwardly hangs around the Elders and Debbie while denying to his demons that he's good now. I think they kinda did that in the final season but I also think they kind of undid it at the end, which is a shame)

an episode where, amongst all the planning for the ceremony, Debbie's a bit sad she can't invite Pete and the kids. She admits that Elf+Nick after being mopey all episode, at which point they say no one ever told her she had to keep Yonderland a secret. She just did that (because that's the fantasy trope, that's what you do, keep it a secret) and no one thought to correct her.

an episode where she does finally, after multiple interruptions, tell Pete and bring him to Yonderland. He of course loves it, and it takes Debbie like an hour to talk him down from the idea of moving there. He immediately latches onto Negatus, thinks he's the coolest thing ever, and Negatus is very confused but happy with the attention. Pete almost dies about seven times, but it does nothing to dampen his glee. The kids think it's alright. They'd like it better if the wi-fi was good.

an episode where Debbie, Negatus and Pete go on a quest to sort out some squabble in a nearby town. Negatus and Pete are separated from Debbie and have to team up to 'save the day'. Meanwhile, she just ended up at someone's house, enjoying a cup of tea and a chat.

an episode of Elders in the real world hijinks. I think we could do with more of that, especially if it led to Debbie and Ho-tan having a clothes montage set to Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. They deserve it.

and of course, an episode with big, grand 'crowning' ceremony with the Elders, Pete, and Negatus desperately trying to make sure everything goes to plan and refusing to let Debbie know/help, Elf and Nick doing their best to distract her. Somehow, it all works out in the end though and Debbie becomes an Elder, surrounded by her all of her family

[m4ndysk4nkovich]

there goes the loudest woman this town has ever seen, i had a marvelous time ruining everything - debbie gallagher character study

ao3

You wake up, hungover, alone, and an orphan.

It wasn’t like Frank’s death was unexpected, you’ve been preparing yourself for it since you were five, but it’s odd. Losing Monica didn’t feel this way. Losing Monica felt like a weight being lifted off of your shoulders. When you saw her dead body lying on the living room floor, you knew that it was the last time she would ever leave you again, and it was relieving. You hate to think that, and immediately after the thought comes to your mind, you run to the toilet and puke your guts out at the mere thought of your mother’s dead body.

…Well, it’s either because of your dead parents or because of the ungodly amount of alcohol you consumed last night. Probably both.

You knew that Heidi wouldn’t last and oddly enough, that’s what you liked about her. You liked how spontaneous and dangerous she was, you didn’t think she was your soulmate or anything. But still, her absence hurts. You expected her to be gone in a week or so, off to Texas (you still hadn’t decided if you wanted to go or not, but you were leaning more towards staying), but you didn’t expect her to be gone so soon. You remember last night at Mickey and Ian’s anniversary party, Heidi left you and Franny at the bar with no ride while you were too wasted to protest, and she wasn’t at the house when you woke up. You vaguely remember Lip driving you and Franny home.

What you’re feeling right now can’t be described with words. You don’t think it’s grief, you spent your whole childhood preparing for the day you became an orphan to the point where you’re convinced that you finished grieving at age thirteen. This feeling isn’t sadness, but it isn’t the same relief from five years ago when Monica died. You don’t feel anything except for lonely.

Loneliness is a feeling you know all too well. From being in grade school and not ever having a single friend, to a desperate teenager in need of some love, to a confused young adult with a kindergartner, you’ve always been lonely. It’s something you’ve always known, you knew it when nobody wanted to play with you in kindergarten, and you had it fully confirmed at six when your unstable, drug addict mother abandoned you. Loneliness is the only constant in your life, yet you’ve still never gotten used to it.

You wonder why your mother leaving you effected you so much. You know that you aren’t the only Gallagher with a bad track record when it comes to keeping a relationship (you learned your relationship skills, like you learned most things, from your big sister), but it seems so much easier for everyone else to just have someone. To have someone to love, to cherish, to be with. The thought of someone who you love loving you back and actually wanting to stay with you seems unfathomable. You know that right now your big brother and his husband are dealing with hangovers as well, and maybe your brothers hunched over the toilet just like you right now, and if he is, he probably has his husband with him. His husband is willing to stay through all of the disgusting things, through all of the hardships, his husband literally tried to kill for him and went to prison for him. Debbie can’t even get someone to want her for reasons other than her tits, Ian’s lucky.

There must be something truly poisonous about you. The fact that you could never make a single friend, that you couldn’t make your mother stay, you couldn’t keep your father sober, you couldn’t make a guy or girl want you, you couldn’t give your kid the life she deserved, and your entire family now views you as nothing but an annoyance. How do all of your siblings go on living and have friends, partners, connections, anything? You feel like your entire life, all twenty years, has just been a big failed attempt at getting the tiniest bit of love. You’re becoming desperate, you know this. You can see your siblings, the older ones who once changed your diapers and played with you, and the younger ones who once looked up to you, roll their eyes when you turn your back. You know that you’re the sole reason why Franny doesn’t play with anyone outside of school. You know that Heidi is probably driving to Texas right now, and in a day she’ll have a new girlfriend. You know that you were born alone and will die alone.

Your daughter is around the age you were the first time that you found yourself without a mother. She’s the age you were when you saw your mother cook meth out of your easy bake oven, the age where kids at school would run away from you, telling you that you smelled bad and that you were ugly. You’ve felt like a nuisance since you were Franny’s age, and it has just dawned on you how young you were.

Your daughter is lovable and sweet and adored by everyone in her life. If you couldn’t be that even at five years old, you know that it is something about you personally. You know that loneliness is your only option, it always has been, and it always will be.

[forestcat000]

Shameless US season 3 episode 11

I've decided that I'm going to be just writing down my thoughts whenever I watch shameless.

Also if anyone knows how to give a post a 'readmore' thing please tell me. I googled it, I'm on my tablet typing this. The way Google said to do it isn't working

Immediate vibe I got from Jimmy's reaction to Fiona agreeing to move so he can go to medical school was 'oh shit, for real?'

So it's been at least a few days since the last episode since they mentioned that Ian's been refusing to leave bed for a while (poor Ian) and Mickeys wedding is happening in a few days

If I was Lip I'm not sure what I'd do. Do you calk the cops on Mandy? Just break up with her? Pretend everything's normal?

I'm glad Fiona has a job she seems to like though I doubt it'll last long. Her manager(?) Seems to be flirting with her so that probably won't end well. Also, yay camping. The Gallagher kids need a break.

Love Lip going to Kev for advice. Though I love Mandy, their relationship needs to end, like now. On top of the fact she tried to kill Karen their relationship just isn't healthy. Lip doesn't seem super into her and doesn't appreciate her. They both could probably use a break from dating.

Damn Franks childhood was....it was something.

Ian only leaving his bed so he can find out more about Mickeys wedding is just sad. Also how old is Mickey? Ian's sixteen, I doubt Mickey is that much older than him. Is Mickey seventeen, eighteen?

Mandy is complaining about her relationship loudly, Ian is 'discreetly' worrying about Svetlana. I will never stop being bewildered by the fact Mandy hasn't realized what's going on between Ian and Mickey. I would think she'd at least think that Ian has a one-sided crush on Mickey.

Mandy saying it's kinda sweet that's Terry's so excited is just...ugh, girl if you knew! Poor Mickey. I hope he gets out of this marriage somehow.

Jimmy you idiot! If you wanna keep up a lie don't leave your phone unattended.

JODY GET AWAY FROM THE TEENAGE GIRL

Oh poor Karen, she doesn't deserve this. Oh dear, please don't let Jody take her away from home.

Oh bullshit Jimmy Steve! 'How is this any different from when you decided to become legal guardian of those kids' their her little siblings who were taken by cps, she wanted to make sure they'd be safe, to minimize anything that could happen to them. All the Gallagher kids have been in and out of the system since they were born, and you're surprised she didn't ask for permission?!

Frank, be grateful any of your kids even showed sympathy and tried to help you.

Yikes number 2 on Franks childhood.

Yay, camping!

Poor Karen. JODY LEAVE!

Damn, Ian is in rough shape.

Oh Mandy, no, no! Mandy no! No means no! These two desperately need to part ways!

Mickey rocks a tux, he looks absolutely lovely.

I feel so bad for both Mickey and Ian. Ian desperately wants to be with Mickey and is begging Mickey to choose him but Mickey doesn't have a choice, if he bails on the wedding Terry might kill him. Both of them deserve safety and love.

Oh is Jimmy-Steve about to be wacked?

Yay Debbie's having fun!

Yup, workplace affair.

I know I keep saying it but poor Mickey, I hate Terry Milkovich, I agree with Ian, he is a 'psychotic prick'

The heist stuff with Frank and Carl is fun tho.

I kinda like the dude from Fionas work, he's fun.

Snickerdoodle cupcakes soun KARENS LEAVING WITH JODY?! NO NO NONONO! SHEILA NO, DONT LET HIM TAKE HER!

Poor Karen, Jesus, she doesn't deserve this, no one does.

Oh damn, Ian's drunk and blurting shit out. Good Lip, get ian and yourself out of there.

Is it bad I hope Jimmy-Steve is getting wacked? Just for funsies.

Shit, Carl's getting arrested at eleven. I love how defensive Lip is with his younger siblings.

Frank yes! Protect Carl!

Oh Fiona....

[amedamnee-m]

1983

⏤𝘴𝘺𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘴𝘪𝘴: Years after missing her senior prom, Clara gets a second chance when her best friend organizes a retro-themed celebration. As old feelings resurface, she reunites with her high school crush, Adam, for the night she never had—but always dreamed of.

⏤𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘳𝘦: Romance, Short Story

⏤𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵: 985 words

⏤𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴: N/A, this is a clean short story

************************************************************************

A single sparkle of a runaway glitter speck disappears under the engine red of my lipstick. I give my lips a few more audible pops in the rearview mirror. My forehead, down to the high of my cheekbones, shimmer as if it were contour against the rounded pink blush of the apples of my cheeks. Clashing it is, with the bold, bright green eyeliner and thick black false lashes.

“Should I tease my bangs some more?”

“No, hunnie, it’s already going to take a week to wash out those three cans of hairspray.” Malik pops a bubble with his chewing gum between his own, black-painted lips. “I’ve got your hair as voluminous as it’s going to get.”

I give my crimped hair one more glance over in its high-side ponytail before nodding, “Okay, let’s go.”

Getting out of the car, I run my sweaty hands down the black velvet of the bodice of my dress. I give my off-shoulder, deep green puffed sleeves a quick fluffing. I couldn’t help but admire the black lace that trimmed them, matching the high-low hemmed skirt. The perfect dress, even back then it would have been. 

“You nervous?” Malik raises a brow.

“No,” I say, blowing out a puff of air. “I’m just bubbling over with excitement.” I clasp my lace-gloved hands.

Malik’s eyes softened, taking my laced hands in his. “Remember, this is just another firm celebration, not your actual senior prom.”

I curtly nod. “Don’t worry, I know.”

“Good.” His smile flashes. “Let’s get moving then. I’m dying to know if the spiked punch is as good as Debbie says…”

I hook my arm with Malik’s, the steady click-clack of my heels steadying the beat of my heart as we approach the entrance to the event center. Shimmering neon pink and green cobwebs glow from the blue hue of the black lights in the windows. We pass through the arch adorned with orange, purple, and black balloons into a vast open floor sprinkled with metallic confetti. Colorful laser lights bounce off the pumpkin lantern-shaped disco balls hanging over the center of the dance floor. Fog swirls around my coworker’s feet as they dance to Duran Duran’s “Hungry Like the Wolf” pulsing through the speakers. 

Malik throws his head back with laughter. “Hunnie, you’re goin’ to catch flies like that.”

I snap my mouth shut, shaking my head. Everything around me was just bringing that teenager inside up to the surface. I couldn’t help but gasp and squeeze his arm tighter when my eyes landed on the photo station. The dark backdrop sports a haunted abandoned house with a graveyard as its front lawn. More colorful glittery cobwebs decorate the edges.

Just then, the original “Sweet Dreams” begins to play through the DJ’s tall black speakers. I spin on my heels, coming face to face with Malik, my eyes wide, matching the grin that’s plagued my face since walking in.

“This soundtrack is perfect!”

“Mhm…Thank your premium, Spotify.”

“I don’t have a premium account?”

“You do as of last week,” he smirks.

“How…?” I wave it off. “You know what? I don’t even care. This is amazing. My old high school could never.”

Malik nods. “You closing that deal gave us the budget for this. And I love you, but I am so tired of hearing about your missed chance at going to prom, so I put all this together just for you.”

I felt a pinch in my chest, “Awe, Malik…”

“Listen, after everything you’ve done for this firm and most importantly for ME, as a friend…I felt you deserved this second chance.”

“Oh god, I think I’m going to cry…”

“Don’t you dare!” he joins in, fanning his hands at my eyes. “I worked too hard on this look!”

“Clara…?”

I freeze, my heart palpating. Are there defibrillators in this building? I know that voice. The deep timbre of the man I had crushed on all through my high school years. The man I was finally going to have a chance with. Only when he showed up to pick me up for senior prom was my house long empty. Where I had to up and move to go take care of my grandmother, who had fallen sick. There wasn’t even a note left with an explanation.

“Second chances…” Malik winks at me before sauntering off in his silver tux towards the cauldron-shaped punch bowl.

Slowly, I turn around, my eyes locking with his like magnets. His light blue eyes, a striking contrast against his ebony slicked-back hair and velvet tuxedo. I expected to find disdain or disappointment, but not the weight of their attentiveness soaking me in, as if I might not be real before him.

“I didn’t think you could get more beautiful.”

 I look away, heat flushing my cheeks. “Adam…I’m sorry. I should’ve called.”

Adam gives me a gentle smile, reaching out to give my elbow a light squeeze, “It’s alright…” He looks past me, his soothing voice calming the deep thrumming within my bones, “A little birdy filled me in on the missing pieces.”

Warmth fills my heart, knowing Malik was this little birdy. What I did to deserve a friend like him, I’ll never know. Adam straightens his spine before extending his large hand to me. “What do you say? Would you like to make the memories we never got the chance to make before?”

I bite down on my bottom lip to keep my smile from splitting my face in two. I slide my hand into his warm one, my voice a little breathless. “Yes, please.”

Adam’s eyes never leave mine as he guides me to the dance floor. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police begins to fill the air around us as the world dissipates, with my head lying against his chest and his chin resting atop my head. The steady beat of my heart syncing with his.  

[thesinglesjukebox]

SOPHIE ELLIS-BEXTOR - "MURDER ON THE DANCEFLOOR" (2001) (2024)

23 years on and this groove's still got some life in it...

[7.11]

Thomas Inskeep: Sophie Ellis-Bextor should've been the next Kylie — and for a couple years, almost was. Her 2001 debut album Read My Lips spun off a trio of top 3 singles in the UK, including this one, which has over time become her true classic. Dua Lipa's entire career was birthed in this single, the dictionary definition of ebullient dance-pop. (It's fitting that Lipa's "Houdini" is currently the most-played song on UK radio as this single is re-ascendant.) SEB has never gone anywhere: she's still making music, touring (based on her 2022 Sophie Ellis-Bextor's Kitchen Disco (Live at the London Palladium), she still sounds great), and is now a DJ on BBC Radio 2. She just didn't become the massive pop star she deserved to be. Now, thanks to its placement in a climactic scene in Saltburn, her greatest single is getting its flowers, climbing back up to #2 in the UK (so far — my fingers are crossed it can make it that final notch higher). "Dancefloor" still sounds fresh, certainly fresher than the glut of '90s-sampling dance-pop dominating the UK charts. This single sparkles, SEB giving a knowing wink as she sings, especially on the line "gonna burn this goddamn house right down." She knows what she's doing here: making magic.   [10]

Edward Okulicz: I bought this on single back in 2002, which tells you something (other than that I am old): it was an irresistible bit of sparkly disco radio pop back in the day. Move it forward or backwards a few years and it might have been an indie rock song for someone else, a filter house record, or (gulp) a Ronan Keating record. Fortunately that never occurred, and it's a delight to see a classic gain new fans from age groups and territories that didn't get it on saturation rotation. Part of it's the solid song by Gregg Alexander, who at his best was a master craftsman of a much-maligned form. Another part of it's the much nimbler, slinky production compared to the rest of his soft-rock oeuvre. And a very, very large part of it is the Debbie-Harry-but-English pose of Ellis-Bextor, too cool to do anything but be filmed dancing from the waist up while she stomps her heel into your eardrums. "Murder" really has everything — a catchy chorus, the tinniest guitar solo ever, hooks that fall as much off the words as the melody — and so is perfect for every occasion, even a movie I am never, ever going to see.  [10]

Alfred Soto: Like the Pet Shop Boys' "Rent," waaayyyy too good for Saltburn — perhaps Emerald Fennell thought their incandescence would rub off on her as if it were glitter. Part of a vanished climate of French house-inspired crossover pop like Kylie Minogue's "Love at First Sight," Sophie Ellis-Bextor presages Katy B's regular-person anonymity: she surveys the strings and rhythm guitar licks like a party hostess keeping an eye on the band while sipping her prosecco. [8]

Alex Clifton: I haven't seen Saltburn and frankly have no interest in it, but this film has led to the Sophie Ellis-Bextor renaissance which is a net good for society. "Murder on the Dancefloor" is just brilliantly composed and produced; it feels as fresh today as it did twenty years ago. There are so many thrilling little moments from Ellis-Bextor's vocal delivery: the way her voice curves into "about your kiiiiiind," the little rasp in "there may be others," the little trill of "dancefloor" in the bridge. I feel so biased writing this review because I've literally been listening to this song since I was a kid, but I'm so jazzed about "Murder" finally receiving the love it deserves.  [10]

Ian Mathers: How can you not love pop music when it'll randomly do things like this, suddenly giving us a song to review from before the earliest days of the Jukebox, that is here purely because of its use in a movie that I have not seen but am informed was probably picked on the basis of Ellis-Bextor's plot arc in the music video. And if I'm not willing to go to bat for it quite as hard as I would for "Running Up That Hill," I did love "Murder on the Dancefloor" in 2001 and it still sounds great now. I don't find myself having any reaction more complicated than happiness at hearing it again and that particular joy of people liking something you like. [8]

Nortey Dowuona: If you told me this came out in 2021 and Emerald Fennell asked Sophie to use it in her movie set in 2001 because it was just that on point in depicting the time, I would agree. Then after taking out my phone, I'd be punched in the face and meekly give up my phone. Then, after watching you sprint into a nightclub, I'd immediately thank goodness you didn't ask for the passcode and run like hell for the closest subway. I am three stops from home before I remember this did not actually come out in 2021; there are other Sophie Ellis-Bextor songs and jailbreaking is a thing now. [10]

Leah Isobel: RIP Mark Fisher. You would've written a hell of a blog post about Saltburn. [7]

Mark Sinker: Necessary digression 1: heraldry as a science in Europe is roughly 900 years old, a bright and stylised easy-read guide, highly rule-bound and policed, to class and land and title — which is to say to material history (its jargon-field is still mostly words not otherwise used in the UK since the 14th century; even property law is less lousy with extinct Norman French terms). And like many very aged things, it has necessarily also passed through phases and fashions, as technologies of display arrive and depart. In fact the first inkling I had that I wasn’t going to get on with Saltburn was the typeface chosen for the title on-screen at the outset. It’s a font with a fairly specific ill-set ungainliness to it: it wants to have the weight of "pleasingly and weirdly old; not how we do things now," but it might just as well be some off-the-peg super-modern studio confection — or even (though I slightly doubt this) something custom-fashioned purely for the film. There’s no discernible care to the choice. Necessary digression 2: back in the late '70s when Peter Saville was busily and insouciantly borrowing from this or that actual-real document or design, of such-and-such era, part of the point was the severity of the decontextualisation — except there was a rigour to the carelessness. The item was being supplied with an iconicity (the very word) pulling you in towards whatever the item was that Factory Records was then placing on the market. The surface glamour of the original was to be funneled through in such a way that its weight amplified only the new relationship. In fact (in its stylised easy-read way) Saville’s work was ruthlessly the opposite of heraldry, so very good at managing the ambient melancholy that suffuses the wider Factory moment; all the blocks and counterspells necessary to conjure here beyond the end of creative time as the context for the music to have presence. Anyway, long story short (lol) Saltburn – which would love to believe it has accessed the aura, for example, of the cover of New Order’s Technique — is attempting to juggle the same double burden. It wants to conjure a play between the decontextualised pull of 24-hour-party-people hedonism and the real ineluctable unremovable weight of actual history and actual class and actual land and actual title. Except for its story to work it needs both dimensions (hedonism and weight; heraldry and careless scribble) to register, as Saville absolutely didn’t. No block, no counterspells, nothing to dampen the disturbances — so when poor old Sophie EB’s voice and poise are scalpeled out of their 20-year-old chart context and abruptly c/p-ed into whichever late-stage scene it is, well, here they are, as a clumsy synopsis (calculation, side-eye, dancing, death) the structure really shouldn’t require, in a role the song is the wrong mood (a faintly gauche trifle, a chirpy hustle) to deliver. The movie never works out where it gets its deep reveal from, or what shape its politics are (if politics is even a useful word here). Ill-set ungainliness all over again: the carelessness floods back into the borrowed adornment, and breaks it in pieces. I don’t even love this song that much but I hate how it gets what value it has so gracelessly driven out of it.  [2]

Jacob Satter: At the risk of killing the groove, this is a pretty boring choice for a manufactured revival track. Call me back when the kids discover "It's In Our Hands." [4]

Jacob Sujin Kuppermann: I'm glad everyone's having fun here but the more I try to enjoy this — either on its own terms or as an icon of nostalgia — I get nothing. Unremarkable in any year. [4]

Lauren Gilbert: It was a [10] in 2001, it's still a [10] now. [10]

Katherine St. Asaph: The thing about it being 2024 is that in the intervening 20-plus years since "Murder on the Dancefloor" came out, approximately ninety million more disco-revival tracks came out. Some of them are by Sophie Ellis-Bextor, even. And so many of those tracks are smooth where this is stiff, magisterial where this is timid (and not in a winsome Katy B kind of way; Katy got better arrangements), charged where this is inert and just generally unmurderous. It's actually startling how inessential this sounds by comparison. [3]

Oliver Maier: Even as a youth, before my brain was burdened with indulgent critical vocabulary, I felt like this song just didn't work. I can't pin down whether "Murder" is knowingly a little chintzy (dare I say camp?) or if it's just cheap tat trying sincerely to sound boutique. Benefit of the doubt granted or not, Ellis-Bextor sounds like she's doing karaoke off the sofa. [4]

Michael Hong: When Ellis-Bextor pauses, it's easy, like a quick and graceful end to a conversation rather than the expectant response to her more spirited word choice. She's committed to this casualness, easily slipping away at the hint of a faux pas, which makes the occasional lingering word more charming. "About your kind," she sings, as if looking you up and down, wondering if she's got it wrong this time; the word "others" is trailed as if she's daring you to eliminate the competition. In that way, "you better not kill the groove," delivered with such nonchalance, becomes a fervid instruction. [7]

Will Adams: It's cute, Sophie is ever-charming, but there's real problem when you've got songs in your catalog with titles like "Bittersweet" and "Heartbreak Make Me a Dancer" that offer way more palpable drama than the one with the word "Murder." [5]

Joshua Minsoo Kim: Every other line is threatening here. “Stay another song,” “Don’t think you’ll get away,” “You better not kill the groove.” Sophie Ellis-Bextor isn’t demanding fear, though. That’s what makes “Murder on the Dancefloor” so irresistible: she sounds like a friend, albeit one who’s deathly serious about having a good time. When you hear her, you believe it can be this good for you too. [8]

Taylor Alatorre: Wow. They were allowed to make these slick disco-pop reimaginings with actual guitar solos back then? We must retvrn. [8]

Tara Hillegeist: It feels like a time capsule from another era in pop music entirely, because it is. There was a time when Ellis-Bextor's stately, imperial, nigh-inhuman precision of a delivery felt like nothing so much as the edifice within which pop star royalty could be crowned, particularly in the world of UK pop; it's still hard, even now, to deny the simple pleasures of someone who knows what her job is and then executes it flawlessly. But it's been over two decades since this song originally bowed, and it must be said that it was the impact of songs like, yes, "Murder" itself that raised pop music's skill floor high enough that such icy professionalism now feels like the most tiresome part of it — Dua Lipa does this regularly, after all, and with equal anonymity. No, what saves it, and ensures the song remains nothing so much as a delightful diversion (conditions of its resurgence be damned, I say), are the sampled whoops that come in beneath the guitar solo; notwithstanding that such a slice of controlled disco can credit itself with having a guitar solo to begin with, but the canned hype is such a stupendously goofy touch. It humanizes the song instantly, stripping the archness of its artifice aside to reveal the awkward smile underneath. The moment passes, of course. But the smile lingers. [7]

Anna Katrina Lockwood: I've been waiting 20+ years for an opportunity to issue a dissertation on the songwriting genius of Gregg Alexander and by god am I ready. Though it's hard to imagine it in a different form, "Murder on the Dancefloor" was apparently a cast-off single for Alexander's New Radicals debut, replaced by the equally glorious "You Get What You Give" — like, imagine being such a talented songwriter that you can just cast off a song like this, knowing you've got an equally great one to replace it with! "Murder on the Dancefloor" is just perfection in Ellis-Bextor's hands, with a galaxy of terrific choices in its production to go along with the amazing melodic structure. I still can't help but burst out laughing at the initial vocal hit in the intro on occasion, a perfect, delicately harmonized coo of "Murder!," cutting through the disco instrumental setup occurring all around. It's as great a moment of pop songwriting as I'm aware of — setting the expectation of the song's vibe from the outset. Ellis-Bextor's lyrics are outstanding, cleverly arch but not too shiny, in the thick of it yet also gliding past suavely. The song is incredibly detailed, a carefully calibrated piece — it lopes by with a relaxed stride rather than a reckless dash, a well-tailored Savile Row suit as opposed to an H&M tunic, cut to the millimeter. Yet it's also very clearly of the disco, built for singing along, difficult to avoid dancing to when it comes on. It turns on its heel at moments' notice, with layers of melody playing off each other throughout. Matt Rowe's efforts in production also deserve notice — this song sounds great, so distinctive that it is still eminently listenable 23 years on. I honestly have not a single thing to criticize about "Murder on the Dancefloor," and it's been a long time that I've considered it to be one of the truly great pop songs of my lifetime. It feels like incredibly just desserts to see it garnering so much praise now.  [10]

[Read, comment and vote on The Singles Jukebox ]

[alexcharmsyou]

The way Lip treats Fiona in the later seasons drives me into the wall. dropping shit like “the old Fiona would’ve handled this” “wouldve covered for me” and she didnt even have anything to do with it. hell, he knew what she was going through and still got loud at her. if anything doesn’t go his way he takes it out on the person next to him and its ridiculous. he did the same shit with Debbie too. his character had always been going downhill for me but s9 Lip just kills me.

And on that note, i find it fascinating how everyone (except Carl from what i know) has treated Fi like garbage ever since she got out and started making a life for herself. and as much as i hate it, i understand their perspectives too. the kids are older but still young, and they were so young when Fiona literally did everything to take care of them, and now that shes left (which she had every right to) its become more difficult for them. but what they don’t understand is Fiona was in that exact same boat taking care of herself and 5 kids. she deserves to get out and make a life for herself because she is one of those kids too. taking care of her siblings her whole damn life wasn’t something she HAD to do but she still did it. all of the kids were the parents responsibility NOT hers. Frank and Monica had their own shit too which i could get into, and i firmly believe that there is a reason for everything- people aren’t just born doing shit- there is a root trauma and i seriously love looking into it. god please let me minor in psychology so i can write my papers on these characters o7

[the-whumpening]

My Own Worst Enemy, Part 2 [Son of Bat]

Prev | Masterpost | Next

This part is a little shorter. I tried to make the specifics of the medical stuff as accurate as I could, but I definitely could've made mistakes so . . . we'll call it "suspension of disbelief" lol

CW: abusive parents, medical content, hospital setting

--------------------------------------------------------------------

The weeks that followed were a living hell.

James’ condition, as the doctor described it, was “unpredictable.” While they could set the bones and sew up the cuts, his body would have to set the pace for everything else. There was no telling whether or not his internal bleeding would heal on its own, how long he would have to be sedated, or how his brain would be affected.

-

(“I don’t know why you have to be so difficult all the time!”

I’m not! Why can’t you just leave me alone?!

“You don’t care about anyone but yourself, do you?”

Stop it!

“This is why you don’t have any friends.”

Shut up! Shutupshutupshutup!

“I have never met such an ungrateful, disrespectful child!”

What do I have to be grateful for?! To come home and be screamed at every day?

“Fine, I guess I’m just the worst parent in the world. I only clothed you and fed you and put a roof over your head—you’re both just better off without me!”

Mom!)

“Hi, sweetie. I don’t know if you can hear me . . . ” (Huh?) “I love you so, so much. You don’t deserve any of this. Please, wake up soon . . .”

(What is this? What’s going on?)

Debby rarely left his side; she couldn’t bear the thought of him being alone, especially if he awoke with no one around. Not that the others were much different—all three fought to stay with him as long as possible. They tried to take care of one another, made sure they all slept and ate and had time away from the dim hospital room, but it was difficult when all they could think about was James.

-

(“You’re killing your mother with this stupid acting out; why can’t you just behave like [----]?!”

Wait, who?

“Don’t get smart with me! If I was half this disrespectful to my parents, they’d have thrown me out to pick my own switch to beat me with!”

Dad? Where am I?)

Vince spoke little, withdrawing into himself. There were days he couldn’t even sit beside James, posting guard in the corner instead. The nurses encouraged him to engage with James—any stimulation was good for his brain, even if he can’t process it right now—so he took to reading aloud. It wasn’t talking, not exactly, but the sound of Vince’s voice seemed to have a positive effect on him either way. He started with bits and pieces from biographies and nature magazines he had saved to read on the work trip with Cass, then some of James’ books brought in from his room. One night, when he was the only one around, he brought a thin chapter book he’d read to James as a small child. He read it over and over again during those two long weeks.

“After James Henry Trotter had been living with his aunts for three whole years, there came a morning when something rather peculiar happened to him.”

(This can’t be right . . . Vince read me this story. When was it? Last night?

“What are you doing up?”

Can I sleep in your room tonight?

“I dunno . . . ”

Please! It’s too dark in there!)

“And trembling, James stood alone out in the open, wondering what to do. The night was all around him now, and high overhead a wild white moon was riding in the sky. There was not a sound, not a movement anywhere.”

(“Well . . . Okay. Come on, I’ll read you a story and maybe you’ll feel a little better.”

J-A-M-E-S . . . It’s got my name!

“Yeah, and he’s a smart kid, too. Just like you. But listen, we gotta be quiet, okay? Mom will be mad if she hears us.”

Okay, got it.

“Why are you two still awake? I told you to go to bed an hour ago!” But—! “James! Quit being a baby and go back to your room. You are too old to be scared of the dark and whining over a nightlight.”)

-

(“As long as you live under my roof, you obey my rules!”

I’m not cutting my hair.

“Did I phrase that as a question?”)

There was an unspoken agreement among the group to respect James’ privacy as much as possible; of the four, Molly had been the only one to ever see him nude on purpose, after all. Although James wasn’t prudish per se, they knew he would’ve been embarrassed if his brothers had seen him be cleaned of his own filth, among other things. So Debby and Molly took the lead on caring for him, delegating less invasive tasks to the boys. Even Debby looked away when the nurses helped Molly clean his lower half.

(Get off of me! Let go!)

-

“Leave a light on for him. I know his eyes are closed, but . . . I think it makes him calmer.”

“It’s okay, J. You’ll be okay.”

“L . . . Love you, bro.”

Who . . . ? I know you. I know all these voices. But why . . . why are they so kind?

“We miss you.”

-

It took over two weeks for James' brain to recover from the swelling. Thankfully, the majority of his physical injuries had also been addressed in that time as well; he'd been in and out of surgeries to reset his fractured bones, which had also stopped swelling long enough to treat. His bleeding seemed to have quelled, and many of the lacerations were looking better.

As the doctor administered the medication into his IV, James was brought out of his deep sleep.

[blackacre13]

part 2 of Debbie getting jealous at Sam plsss

Part two below; Here's part three:

“You know she loves you, Debs. Right?”

“Sam does?” Debbie teased. “She knows I’m married, right?”

“Lou, you pain in the ass,” Tammy hissed. “I don’t know why I put up with your bullshit, Ocean.”

“You love me,” Debbie sang, her energy waning as she decided to stop trying to deflect and actually let Tammy know how she felt. “I know she does,” Debbie nodded, whispering it like a secret. “And I know she has every right to a sponsor. And a friend. And someone to confide in. And I just—god, I already sound like a manipulative bitch.”

“No,” Tammy promised her. “You just sound like you love your partner and you wish there was more you could do for them.”

“Yeah.”

“And you’re not saying you don’t trust Lou, because I know you do, but you’re scared that you don’t deserve the happiness that you have right now.”

“Everything’s been so good, Tam,” Debbie whispered, surprised to feel tears prickling at her eyes. “What if it’s been too good?”

Debbie didn’t really know what drove someone to go off on a bender. She supposed that they hit their breaking point or rock bottom or whatever they wanted to call it, with no sticks or carrots left, only down to go, because what did up even matter anymore?

And the ironic thing was, she definitely knew what rock bottom was. It was laying on your back on the disgusting floor of a holding cell, hissing at yourself not to cry. Hating that the love of your life had been right. Because that meant that you’d ruined everything and murdered the chance of staying with the love of your life. 

It was looking at years behind bars. Of betraying her partner in crime and her partner in life. Of being royally screwed over by her business partner she’d been stupid enough to trust.

Danny Ocean visited prison like he went to the grocery store. Debbie Ocean had sworn up and down that she would never step foot in a prison unless she was merely visiting the other Ocean.

Rock bottom was watching being told to strip down, peeling off a skin-tight dress you thought a man would be peeling off of you for a night of celebratory sex that certainly wasn’t the best you’d ever had, but supposedly was good enough. Even if you wished his cologne was different. Even if you were picturing something different. Wishing it was her. Not him. It was still something, right? And now it wasn’t even that?

Handing over Danny’s watch and seeing it get slipped into a ziplock bag in front of her felt like the final nail in the coffin.

“Wedding rings?” A guard had asked, eyeing Debbie’s left hand.

“No,” Debbie had answered blankly, suddenly fixated on her bare ring finger.

Maybe that’s what had actually been rock bottom. Realizing that there could have been a ring on that finger. A wife by her side. And that she wouldn’t have had to take it off and dump it into a plastic bag to sit in god-only-knows-where for hopefully less than six years because Lou would have never gotten into this mess.

Yeah. That had been rock bottom. But it hadn’t really been possible to go on a drinking binge. And she was already a criminal. What was she going to start doing? Shoplifting? Debbie scoffed.

She had let her feelings out, mostly at night, waiting for the tears to come. They never came over Claude. Over being conned. Over failing. But they came for Danny. They came for Lou. There seemed to be an endless supply of tears for Lou.

And once she’d gotten out, she’d started screaming. At the mausoleum demanding what gave Danny the right to think he could just go off and die and abandon her just as she was finally getting her shit together. At the top of her lungs into the howling winds and busy streets full of screaming and honking and traffic where no one could hear.

But there was no other urge to start up a habit, good or bad. It was more trying to break the habits of her past. Hiding things from Lou. Feelings. Intentions. Emotions. Plans.

But as she started to let those feelings and secrets out, there were some things she still bottled up. The nightmares. The PTSD. Lou had enough shit on her plate to deal with. Debbie didn’t need to dump her own past on her partner.

Lou only needed to be accountable to herself and her sponsor and her sobriety. She didn’t need to know how truly bad prison was. How much Debbie had truly suffered. Even if she had. It was over now. Right?

And she definitely, definitely didn’t need to do what Tammy had told her to do and tell Lou the truth about Sam. She could be jealous. Jealousy was common enough. Reasonable. Partners wanted to do and be everything for their partners and sometimes they just couldn’t. That’s where Sam came in. It did Debbie no good to tell Lou how she felt, even though Lou would understand. Because Tammy had. And because Lou always did.

But suddenly, Debbie’s chest was getting tight and her vision was blurring. Her heart was racing. She couldn’t see right in front of her, phone on the floor, unsure when or how she’d dropped it. Only the distant echo of Lou in the background. At least she thought Lou was there. And another distant voice.

“Does this happen a lot? Should I call an ambulance?”

Suddenly, Lou’s hand was flat against her heart and her fingers were stroking back her hair. When had her forehead gotten so sweaty? How had Lou gotten into her cell? Past security? And who was this other person with her?

“I’m here, Debs,” Lou whispered. “You’re having a panic attack. I need you to breathe with me, honey. I’ve got you, I promise. I just need you to breathe. Slow. In and out. Just focus on breathing.”

[winderlylandchime]

(1/2)The man came inside after a cigarette break, jumped right into 2x14, saw Justin dancing on the bar, paused the episode and went outside for another smoke. So i think he is handling it well. He is now back and his immediate reaction is ‘THIS IS BULLSHIT! Why are they making him do this, i know its his own doing BUT COME ON.. OH SO THEY KNOW WHAT HAPPENED? My dudes, my bros, my mens..why aren’t we throwing punches yet?..oh Brian is pissed off! Why doesnt he say something? what is that freak of a fuck giving him? JUSTIN DONT TAKE ANY DRUGS FROM HIM’ *pauses the tv on Brian* ‘see the problem is that he looks very pretty when he is in a bad mood’ *throws his hands up in the air* ‘PICKLE GUY!!!!!!!! Oh pickle guy and Emy are going on a world trip!! I can’t wait! Theyre gonna have so much fun…oh she’s still being a bitch to Ben? Man fuck her, i thought she was better with him?’…’oh Brian knows about his classes! I swear i am totally normal about this! But like, i didnt even know my own classes but Brian knows Justins? Oh Brian is angry.. good for him! I like this! I mean I don’t like the Justin part but i do like Brian being all for his education and shit. That’s nice! I want more of that but less of that other shit.’ ‘I thought we wrapped up with cop bullshit? Why the hell is he here? Yeah, what are you doing her- SAY WHAT NOW? HE ASKED WHAT NOW? exactly debbie! Tell him! WE *points to her and himself* do not date or fuck cops!’ He high fived debbie on tv bc he’s happy she turned doen the cop..’brian actually showed up for Emmetts going away at work? I LOVE EMY AND BRI BRI!!! Oh for fucks sake justin! Just take the fucking money! You arent doing a very good job at looking out for yourself right now, that man is an evil evil little freak! And Brian clearly knows it!’ And the scene with Vic and Debbie is up. ‘exactly Debbie, he is a homophobe!! VIC MY BOY WHAT? HE DIDNT MAKE A TINY JOKE HE MADE A BAD JOKE! He doesnt need enlightening, what he needs is my foot so far up his ass his own mom can feel it! Why is vic being dumb? At least debbie knows he’s a homophobe. VIC STOP THIS MADNESS!’ ‘Oh look Justin remembered he has a school! Its Brian! I like this, i would like more of them hanging out. Justin doing his homework and Brian being with him. AFTER HOURS PARTY?! Absolutely not! Oh Brian knows this is bad news. Brian please stop this madness! *pauses tv on Justin* dude, me and Brian are trying so hard to get to you and you won’t listen to either one of us and honestly, it’s not cute!’ And now he is groaning loudly because Debbie is going on a date. ‘The problem i have is, this would be a cute moment if he wasn’t a…you know *said in a very disapproving way* a cop. OH THE FUCKING IRONY OF MIKE AND OH MY FUCKING GOD I DIDNT EVEN REALIZE IT OH MY GOD OH MY GOD SHE IS A HYPOCRITE OF A WHOLE NEW LEVEL. Oh fuck her times 70.’ And now the plane scene is up and i am not ready ‘AHHH PICKLE GUY AND EMY ARE ON A TRIP!! I need them to give me a cute little montage of them having cute moments all over the world! Like some italian music that’s upbeat and just random snapshots of them! YES I WANT THAT! Ohhhh they are gonna get down and dirty in the bathroom!! Gross but have fun babies, you deserve it!’ He is currently scoffing at everything Carl says ‘Debbie.. come on. You cant even look at Ben and say hi to him and you see nothing wrong with Car- oh thats why she said into him, theyre the same. Assholes!’ I am not ready for whats about to happen, i always get sad but i am not ready for this. ‘Oh look at them going at it! Hell yeah Pickle Guy and Emy live your best lif-*he is genuinely on the verge of tears* pickle guy?..pickle..? Is he. noooooooooooo PICKLE GUY! *he is actually crying at this point* PICKLE GUY NO! What about the world trip! And italy! And cute montage! Pickle’ He is genuinely sad and honestly same.

OH POOR BROTHER ANON, mourning the loss of Pickle Man (do not let him eat a pickle in his memory).

Your brother is right - We Do Not Fuck Cops in this house. ACAB. He’s going to be very disappointed in Debbie (again)

I love that he and Brian are now a team trying to get Justin to listen to reason.

Okay… let’s get to the next one because a couple of us have been wondering how Brother Anon was going to respond to Justin topping…