#camila: i'm an engineer. it's what i do.

[stellayuta]

Love on The Grid - Formula 1 AU! Yuta Okkotsu - Pt 2.

Your likes, comments and reblogs really encourage me to write more! So do interact with this post and let me know your thoughts 🧡

PART 1

synopsis: One-night stands were nothing but a necessary painkiller for your inability to cross paths with true love. Your most recent find at a Vegas Club was no different. He was boring, obedient, SLOW! You leave him high and hanging hoping you'd never see him again until you find yourself gawking at a supersized billboard of him on a Vegas highway with the title 'LEGEND RETURNS TO VEGAS'.

genre: some s*xual tension, a lot of fluff, thrill and angst

content: 18+ only. Formula one driver! Yuta x f! reader, use of alcohol, swearing, mentions of sex

word count: 5k

a/n: part 2 came soon because i'm so pumped lolol. Note, In this story, Megumi and Toji aren't related.

WARNING: always use protection!

You sat in your hot, plastic seat with bated breath, like a thousand others, keeping your eyes trained on the asphalt of the track.

Even though it was November, temperatures in Vegas were no good - either that, or the revelation that your hookup from last night is a world-renowned athlete is making you nauseous.

You were in the most uncomfortable position in the entire stands combined, smack in the middle of a fired up Noritoshi and a spiteful Kokichi, who were planning on probably shouting at the top of their lungs for their favorite driver on the grid.

"When's this starting?" You turn to Miwa, a bit nervous.are You nervous to see that man, Yuta, in the middle of his job? What if he doesn't perform well - that would be embarrassing. Oh well, no one here knows about us anyway so it's fine. Except for his number one fan Noritoshi maybe.

"Well, they're almost done with the formation lap, so they should line up at the start line soon. Red Bull's Geto has the pole with a surprise front line seat for Ferrari's Gojo. King Okkotsu is sitting third with Ferrari's second, Itadori Yuji. Then it's Red Bull's Mahito followed by Merc's Toge and - " he goes on and on, speaking jargon and names You don't understand.

"Noritoshi." You stop him in the middle of his enthusiastic speech. "You understand that none of what you said passed through my brain right?"

"Ah well, none of it matters!" He cackles. "When the race begins - you will know who you'll cheer for and who will have you at the edge of your seat. Who gets your heart pumping." He says, fisting his chest. The last bit seemed a bit unintentionally personal but you roll your eyes at him anyway.

The drivers are soon done with their 'formation lap' which Kokichi is nice enough to enlighten you - is a circle they do around the track to prep their tyres for the race and check the tracks and engines. You also see now that Pole is the car sitting first in the starting lineup, as you narrow your eyes at dark, red and blue car zooming its way to ease into the frontmost bracket. That must be the bane of Noritoshi's existence and the Object of Kokichi's desire - Geto Suguru.

Behind him is a flashy red car that earns a deafening roar of cheer as he comes into position. That must Gojo Satoru.

Music Recommendation:

Behind him, and you find yourself looking really keenly. You spot the teal and midnight black hues of a fiery car, followed by another deafening roar and a partial standing ovation. So that's him. 'Mr. Cute Dick, I don't drink, I am not a virgin'. You smirk at thought of such a wallflower being at the center of one of the hottest sports in the world, in a championship with the highest stakes.

"Looks like Y/N is an Okkotsu fan." Noritoshi claims, grinning sarcastically at Kokichi who replies with a grimace. "No, I clearly saw her looking keenly at Geto."

"Ah, shut up the two of you." You snap. "Let me watch!"

The both of them exchange glances at your sudden interest but humor you as the crowd waits with a chilling silence. The five red lights light up, sounding a beep and you can hear your heartbeat in that moment as they turn green without warning and the race is on!

The set of 20 cars pick up speed at a maddening rate and are soon accelerating through the curves and straights of the track, tailing one another. The commentator is particularly zealous, and you find yourself listening to him with a lot of attention. Your eyes never leave the Teal and Dark vehicle with his tiny head popping out the cockpit, protected by his shiny, silver helmet.

For around 30 laps or so, nothing changes, and the people have started chatting amongst themselves. You slump back down into your seat.

There is some action going on at the back of the line-up with a few of the cars overtaking and re-overtaking one another.

"Well, this is boring…" You admit.

"It has its moments." Noritoshi states. "Oh wait, what's that-"

You turn to the track so fast, your vision goes blurry, and You nearly miss the spectacle.

The second red is quickly closing in on Yuta's Teal but Yuta swivels out of the way just in time, apparently surprising his tail-end as the driver, Itadori, loses control and touches the back of the first red car, Gojo's. Both of them start spinning dramatically and are vaulted out of the race at one of the turns.

"Collision! In the Top Five! Both Ferraris are out!" The commentator is roaring out now, with several people standing to get a better view.

You yourself are concerned for the Ferraris that seemed to have lost some parts of the car, leaving behind a trail of debris. But soon enough, both drivers emerge from their respective cars, with the taller one giving the crowd a thumbs up. He removes his helmet and a layer of clothing to reveal striking snow-white hair and dazzling smile. This sport is too fucking dangerous.

"The collision will be under investigation for sure to see if Ferrari's Number 3, Itadori is at fault! For now, the safety car is out."

You train your gaze on Yuta again. He seems to have taken a different route from the track now, heading towards a group of people, clad in suits and uniforms similar to the colors of his car.

"Hey, what's he doing?" You ask Noritoshi. You almost hear Kokichi mumbling "Oh shit." under his breath.

"That's a pit stop. Change of Tyres. Now is a brilliant time for this." Noritoshi says, his lips quivering. Is he really that excited for Yuta.

"The Safety Car has been taken off and with Mercedes' Number 7 quick thinking, Okkotsu takes the lead of the race!" The commentator announces earning a barrage of cheer from the crowd and a giant sigh from Kokichi.

"But not far behind him is Red Bull's Number 4, Geto, fastest car of the crop, who is looking to overtake… He has the DRS on and, and…." You don't need to listen to the commentator anymore because You see it happening and You almost let out some weird feral choke as Yuta barely, barely manages to keep his lead and the vicious, red and blue car accepts defeat, staying behind. You finally breathe out when You see Yuta gaining some speed and maintaining a good distance between him and Geto.

Kokichi pokes your shoulder and gives you a look of immense worry when You realize You are literally gripping your hair at the roots with both hands.

"ah, hah!" You laugh nervously, letting go off your now scrunched up hair. You lean back again as they announce the final lap and with no difficulty, as the checkered flag is waved, Yuta's Mercedes finishes first, with Geto behind him, followed by the other red bull, Mahito.

All of us rise to give the winners a standing ovation as confetti is blasted into the air and fireworks decorate the already shimmering Vegas skyline. You watch in wonder at the colors in the sky as Yuta pumps his fists up, getting out of his car and running over to his team.

"Good win, bro." Kokichi smiles at Noritoshi, who You now notice is on the verge of tears.

You see Yuta remove his helmet, but You can only make out his dark hair from this distance. You don't stop yourself from pouting at the disappointment. Why do You feel like You deserve being close to him right now. Maybe your good-luck suck off today guaranteed his win.

You see him disappear into the pavilion and ask Noritoshi if we can take a closer look at them.

"Close is not close enough to get their autographs but I can get you close enough to see their faces." Noritoshi claims and You give him a smile of gratitude.

"Geez Y/N. Did I really convert you in one race? Can't say if I'm prouder of you or myself." He jokes.

We stand for the Japanese national anthem as we cheer for the winning drivers receiving their trophies and drowning each other in champagne. Geto Suguru doesn't seem to be too keen to join into the racket, but Mahito wants to push the whole bottle down Yuta's throat. You smirk at the view. No teetotalling today?

As the crowd disperses out of the stands, we make our way through as well. You are tightly holding on to one of Miwa's and Momo's hands, each.

Noritoshi guides us through a few sections of the crowd and through a few random nooks and alleys of the arena until we reach what seems like a back gate. You see that a sizable yet dealable crowd is already standing there with Cameras and posters and shirts in hand.

"Well, this is a guarded secret, so not many know." Noritoshi winks at us. Today You are glad You became friends with his girlfriend, Momo.

We join the rows of people, but you fight your way to at least the second from start row, earning a lot of swears and some chick even trying to pull your hair.

You gaze at the gate with hope. One last look. Just to curb your excitement. It's just excitement nothing else. I'll be done after this. I'll go back to your city and drown yourself in work. None of this ever happened…. but why do You feel oddly bitter.

Is it because You realized Yuta and You are worlds apart? You are just an ordinary, honest worker - a commonality. Whereas he a star athlete, loved by the masses and with access to as many options as he wants. But what You have learnt from your past is, people can be as special or common as they want - a person who wants to find options, will always go out in search of options.

And as if to prove your point, You feel an ominous buzz in your hands right as You hear the doors open. You check your phone to see the screen flashing "Megumi Baby." right onto your face. You don't react or move; You simply glare at the screen. You are unable to breath as memories come flooding in.

Promises, nectar-soaked words, caressing your face with the deepest look of love. His bare back shining with sweat as he pounded into a girl from your workplace that YOU had introduced to him as your coworker. Him turning around, expressionless, leaving without giving you an explanation. Him telling you that you were expecting too much of him and You should have never assumed we were a thing since he was just trying new things in life.

All of it comes back to me, not particularly with ease. It washes over you like a tsunami. Completely drowns me. It's not until the incessant shouting of the crowd brings you to your senses that You snap out of your trance.

"Yuta! Yuta!" the people cheer. "Look here, please, just once. Yuta!"

You stare in horror as You spot Yuta's back getting into his matte black car. You are only able to see a small fraction of the back of his head and his white shirt.

You missed your chance.

You look back at the still ringing phone and want to smash it to bits. Fuck you, Megumi. Fuck you.

The first thing You do is cut the call and block his vile number. Then You try to scream out Yuta's name too in a futile attempt to get his attention, but You are not loud enough.

Amazing.

You start laughing to yourself now.

What was the point of this?

You recall yourself looking in the mirror at your apartment, coaching yourself to make this a pleasure trip. You would hookup with the best guy You could find, forget Megumi for good and move on with your life. So, whatare You doing now?

That guy Yuta would probably head to some lavish after party now and have a string of the prettiest girls in the world willing to suck him off. What use is it down?

The realization nearly brings you to tears. You should have never tried. You slowly retract your raised hands and sink back into the crowd, letting them continue their cheers. You turn back and slowly make your way out of the crowd and towards your friends.

"Wow, Y/N. Even Noritoshi and I didn't go that far in. You good?" Kokichi asks.

"Y/N, sweetie, you look like you're about to throw up what's wrong?" Momo asks me, cupping your face while Miwa rubs your arm.

"Megumi called…" You admit and all of them show a violent shift in expression.

"You haven't blocked that asshole yet?" Miwa asks, furious. You shake your head. "I just did."

"Y/N. You better not maintain any contact with him. He's the absolute scum of-"

"Hey, hey there miss." Suddenly our discussion is interrupted by a polite voice. We all turn around to see two men in suits and glasses standing tall and strong, waiting behind us. They look oddly familiar somehow with the waxed-up hair and somber faces. One of them has a scar near his lips and the other has his hair in a messy bun.

"Miss, are you the one who took Mr. Okkotsu out of the Four Seasons Club last night?" One of them, the bun guy, asks in a business-like fashion, pointing at me. Ah, now You remember them. The two lookers from the club last night, hiding Mr. wallflower behind their broad backs.

Scarface gets a call before You could reply though.

"Yes, Mr. Okkotsu. We're on our way. Well, we have a surprise for you." he tells Mr. Okkotsu mischievously. You narrow your eyes at the word "Surprise."

Scarface exchanges a knowing look with Bunhair and both of them cage you in.

"Would you like to see Mr. Okkotsu, again? It's not like we can force you, but he gave us specific instructions to find you and let him know."

"I didn't make him out to be a stalker you know." You say sarcastically, pondering if You should accept their offer. your friends do give you a strange look and You almost want to tell at least Noritoshi what's going on. But before You can take a call, You get a beep from your phone. This time it's a fucking EMAIL from Megumi.

Jesus, this man.

"I'm coming." You say abruptly. "I'll meet up with you guys later." You tell your friends as they give you looks of utter confusion.

"And burn this shitty device please." you say, tossing your phone towards Kokichi. "At least until I get some sort of restraining order against Megumi."

You exchange a look with Noritoshi and he knows in his heart that You will certainly get an autograph for him.

The two men take surround you as they guide you towards the waiting car. A matte black Lambo. They make sure to hide you from prying eyes, which isn't too hard with their gigantic muscular bodies.

You take a deep breath before You open the door and slide in.

Yuta and you share a good 10 seconds of absolute silence. Honestly, he looks like he's about to fracture his jaw from how wide his gaping mouth is getting. The two men climb into the front and openly laugh at his expression.

"Really, Okkotsu?" they say in unison.

"Wh-wh-wha-" He stutters.

"If you're that offended to see me, I can get out." You tease him, knowing he's going to grab your arm and make you stay. That's exactly what he does.

"Sorry, I was just surprised." He regains his composure. "Well, it's good to see you again, after last time…"

Uff, he shouldn't remind you because you wouldn't be able to control your cheeks getting flushed. There is another round of awkward silence before he decides to continue.

"Ah, right. You left your undergarments in the room last night, I thought you'd want them back so I-" before he can say anything else you slap your palm onto his lips, turning an embarrassing shade of tomato red.

"Not here, not right now!" You whisper-yell at him but his bodyguards/managers/goons/whatevers are quick to catch onto the conversation. Scarface who's driving the car gives you a perverted whistle without turning back and Bun-guy merely hums to himself, pretending to not have heard anything.

"T-Toji, that's impolite!" Yuta shouts at the scarface driver, turning red himself.

"It's not an uncommon thing with you. Aren't you creating quite a collection anyway?" The bun-guy butts in, leaving Yuta defenseless.

"Todo!" he yells at him too and slumps back into his seat, hiding his face. You study him. This was the champion race car driver an hour ago - and now he's a blushy, awkward, highly embarassing puddle.

"Collection, so you do this a lot huh?" You poke him.

"Absolutely not!" He sits up again. "Last night, I just…"

Now you're interested. Sounds like he broke a rule for you.

"Last night what?"

"Well, I just-"

"Oh my god, speak up, Okkotsu!" Toji screams from the wheel.

"Nevermind!" Yuta retorts and grabs your hands. "Are you coming to the after-party or not?"

"Well, I don't have a gown or anything…" You reply, looking down at your very non-party like clothing - a pin strip pant suit.

"Honestly…" He looks you dead in the eye. "You look so gorgeous, I don't want others to stare too much but if you want a dress, we can make a stop. I'll cover it, don't worry." He assures me, feeling a bit less awkward now.

For that compliment, he deserves to see a pretty dress on you and probably a flick to the forehead for making your heart race.

Todo seems to have a good eye for stores because the boutique he takes us to has a brilliant selection of clothes from classy to elegant to teasingly hot and even a corner for some sexy stuff.

You take some time to think and pick out a silvery satin cowl neck dress that compliments your cleavage and stops just a few inches shy of your womanhood. You also pair it will sparkly, strappy heels. You'll just have to make sure to walk properly to not expose anything… unless. When you walk out of the fitting room, you find Yuta waiting beside the billing counter, on his phone, matching your colors, in a light grey tux and black shirt-trouser set. He has combed his hair in a side part, looking rather sharp and you can smell his fresh cologne from a distance. He hears the clacking of your heels and looks up, his lips parting slightly at the sight.

For a moment when your eyes meet, everything stills, like the two of you are the only people in this room. The magnetic pull is something you have never experienced before, not even with Megumi, who you once thought was the love of your life. You walk over to him quickly, tucking your hair behind your ear and give him a twirl. "What do you think?"

"Might have to punch anyone who looks at you wrong tonight." He admits, sheepishly.

"W-What?" You mumble, looking away. Megumi could never. All he told you was to dress modestly so the men won't look. Never did he say he'd protect you. Maybe he never had the balls or talent to.

"Okay, you two get back in the car." Toji yawns at us, getting impatient or perhaps slightly weirded out by the clear tension between us.

The drive to one of Las Vegas' most affluent casino clubs was short and silent. You weren't really mentally prepared to see celebrities and big shots, partying away.

"This will be the best night of your life, I promise." Yuta assures you, intertwining his fingers with yours. You let him only because it calms your nerves. There are a few questions you need answers to though.

"Why are you doing this?" You ask and see Yuta's brow furrow.

"Are you uncomfortable or anything? You can't tell me-"

"It's not that... it's just..." you start. "It really doesn't make sense."

"I am not the most spectacular lay in the world." you admit. "I'm sure you have the world's most exquisite looking women dying to get time with you. I just don't see how being with me can benefit you."

You notice yourself putting yourself down and try to stop but your self-esteem is at an all-time low. That was one of the prime reasons you didn't want to meet up again with anyone you hooked up with during this trip. You wanted to leave feeling all parties involved had the best time of their lives and had no complaints.

Maybe lust got the better of Yuta and he'd come to his senses any minute.

"I think I liked the fact that you had no idea who I was..." He says and you raise your brows.

"I'm sorry I was unaware-"

"Nope, it's a good thing... I felt like I could just be the party loser, Yuta, for once... not a papped, scrutinized driver, Yuta. It felt oddly liberating." He admits.

"Plus, I-" He starts but swallows his words. "Do you remember what we talked about on the way to the hotel?"

You were not paying too much attention back then, being bowled over by the need to fuck someone, but... what did you say?

"Kids, we're here. Catch up later." Todo lets you two know, looking back. Before you could get off though, Yuta leans over.

"Are you going to tell me your name now or not?" He says. The shadows must be playing tricks on your eyes because in the dark, illuminated by paparazzi flashes you find your heart drumming inside your chest, unable to break eye contact.

"Y-Y/N. My name's Y/N." You say finally.

Yuta smiles wide at this and grabs one of your hands, opening the door to his flashy car and the light, noise and cheers hit you all at once.

He helps you get out suddenly, facing a sea of stunned yet curious people, you find yourself wanting to cry from embarrassment.

Oh no. no no no no no! What were they going to print about you now? What will you tell the managing director at your company about this PR scandal?

"Relax." Yuta holds your hand firmly. "I'll make sure only the news you want gets out." He reassures you, find your fingers again, locking them into his and you feel slightly better as you guys make our way to the inside, walking the red carpet.

The casino obviously is so maximalist, it hurts your eyes to say the least. There are people dressed in grandeur lining up at food tables, cigar tables and alcohol tables. There are some playing a few rounds of poker or gambling away at the machines. You are unable to focus on any one spot because all of it is so grandiose, you can't help but gawk at everything!

When people spot the two of you though, they quickly make their way over. Yuta is today's champion after all - this party is for him. They have a lot of good things to say to him - words of admiration, congratulations, words of passive aggressive envy but what all of them have in common is the looks of confusion or judgement they throw at you. One side-eye with a raised brow and they excuse themselves. Sure, no sparkly dress can make you look like one of them, but you had no idea 'big'-shots had the smallest sense of morals and social etiquette. Yuta introduces you as a 'good friend' to them and although it stings at first, this is a necessary step. It's what you would want and would cause the least amount of headache for the both of you. You aren't really friends or aren't really dating after all.

'One time Hookup-ers' isn't exactly a PR friendly term.

"Sorry about them. Most of them lack manners." Yuta says nervously but you reassure him that nothing they say can dent your self-image.

"No amount of looks they give me can change the fact that I'm not drowning in daddy's money, but my own." You smirk at him, leaving him impressed.

The two of you go through a few more people until you finally get to retire to a corner table of the giant ball room.

"How do you do this?" you ask, staring up at the magnificent chandelier crowning the hall.

"Well the boys never stay back for these kinds of things, we run off to different parts of the city to get wasted." He replies. "Just not before race night." You look at him with some mischief tingling behind your smile. He takes this chance to lean in closer and bump noses with you.

"And you thought I was inexperienced, didn't you?"

"So that's how you aren't a virgin...hmm, adventurous."

But Yuta shakes his head. "I've dated before. We ended things and I'm just beginning to explore my options now..."

"You must be spoilt for choice." You try to boost his ego, smiling wider as you feel his breath fan your face. Oh, how you could use a kiss right now. A kiss with everyone watching.

"I'm not spoilt for good choices." He says. "Having a choice doesn't always mean they're the best option for you." Damn, that's harsh. You cup his cheek in your hand and gaze into his dark blue eyes.

"And yet you gave me a chance-"

Before you can finish though, you hear a pair of boots slapping the ground while running in your direction.

"Okkotsu Yuta, you were supposed to give me the post-race comments. The media is waiting!" You hear a woman yell out as she approaches the two of you. She is dressed in a simple yet elegant navy-blue ensemble. Her eyes look disappointed, but her beautiful face, with its under-lip mole, maintains its poise. Yuta greets her with a sigh.

"I will, I will." He tells her. "Rika, let me off for today at least."

"No can do, Yuta." she shakes her head, getting her phone out.

"You can give me a few phrases and I'll piece together something coherent." she offers but Yuta doesn't want to hear it.

"Um, kind of in the middle of something?" He reminds her, circling his arm around your back.

The woman, Rika, gives you a pointed look. "You get one of those every other week. This is important business Yuta."

What does she mean those? You slightly free yourself from Yuta's embrace and look at him, confused. He looks as unaware as you are.

"Rika, you-"

"Yuta, you should stop toying with chicks. New one every few days. And when they want to get serious with you, I have to deal with all those calls and messages." Rika rants on and Yuta's eyes are getting wider by the minute.

For a second, you feel an empty pit in your stomach but before it can show on your face, you stand up.

"So that's how it is, huh?" you corner Yuta who looks aghast.

"Why am I even surprised?" you mutter, walking away from them. You remember Megumi's deadpan face as he walked out after you caught him and his mistress together. Yuta will be the same.

You reach for the balcony door to get some fresh air, but you feel your elbow being grabbed. It's Yuta. Huffing and very worried.

"W-wait, Y/N." He pleads.

You choose to keep your face neutral.

"It's fine. it's not like we were dating. Maybe, tell that woman to be mindful about her language though because the next time she addresses me as if I'm some object, I'll punch her." That threat, You are very serious about. This was a bad idea after all. You don't belong in the world of racecars, and parties and high-profile vips. You are happy with your computer and 3 cups of americanos, building prolific, useful software, from your cramped up office.

"Listen, Y/N... She was lying!" He tries to reason, and you take a look at him. You mentally give him thirty seconds to explain himself. He takes the cue and wastes no time.

"She's the one I dated. She has been my manager for a long time, and it has been some time since we split. I thought she had moved on since I saw her with another driver a while back but looks like she's still bitter." He explains frantically. But who he has dated isn't even your concern.

"I don't want to deal with fragments of your past, especially ex-flames, Yuta." you say bluntly. "I'm sorry, I have to leave now. Goodbye. Thanks for the evening."

You free yourself from Yuta's clutches, stifling a sob and heading towards the exit. You may have been seeing things, but you see a fluff of white follow you out from the corner of your eyes. It wasn't Yuta though.

Why did you care? It shouldn't matter.

No amount of love could bring people a universe apart, after all.

To be continued....READ PART 3 HERE!!

a/n: Okay there is practically no smut here but the plot needs some build up. Part 3 gonna be out soon and it's going to have a lot of smut, stay tuned guys!

[apocalypseornaw]

Real or Not (Pt 4/5)

Dean Winchester x Reader

Dean finds out what Camila did and hits the road to chase you to Donna's in hopes you'll talk to him and hear him out

@lacilou s idea

Dean climbed into the impala and Sam was silent. He glanced over to see you were looking at the impala or Camila, your eyes had that far away look when you were lost in thought. He said a prayer to Castiel, hoping the angel was listening to ask him to keep a feed on you. He hated sending you on a hunt without him or Sam backing you, he didn't trust anyone else.

As soon as he started the engine and pulled out onto the road Sam turned to look at him "Dude, what the hell was that?" He knew his confusion spoke for itself because Sam motioned back towards where they'd come from "You kissed Y/N on the frickin forehead! Like you do Charlie or Jody!" "Fuck" he slammed his hand against the steering wheel when he realized what he'd done.

Sam shook his head "I know going into a hunt isn't the best time but what's going on here Dean?" Dean let out a groan before turning to look at Sam "Before Camila called my plan was to take Y/N to one of Bobby's cabins for the weekend just the two of us so I could talk to her"

"about?" Sam pushed and Dean shrugged "I'm in love with her Sam. The way I feel about her, I never knew those feelings could happen to me but just waking up with her in my arms makes me see the light at the end of the tunnel. I wanted it to be a big romantic thing with her favorite flowers and a fireplace for us to be in front of. She deserves the best and I wanted to give it to her"

"You do realize she's probably thinking that forehead kiss was because of Camila? I know her pretty good and sometimes she's not quite as confident as she acts and if she thinks you're trying to treat her differently because of Camila..." Sam trailed off but Dean could read between the lines, what if something happened to you because he'd made a stupid mistake from simply letting himself get in his own head? How the hell could he live with himself?

He shook his head "She'll be ok for the hunt. She thrives on the fight then I'll talk to her as soon as we meet up" Sam nodded slowly "Ok"

A few bruises but beyond that Dean and Sam both had faired pretty well. No casualties and the kids were headed home to their parents.

Sam cut his eyes towards him as he peeled out onto the road "Since we got the fight she should be ok" Dean nodded "but I need to talk to her now"

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

When the boys got back to the motel they spotted Camila's mustang so they parked in front of her room. They both got out quickly, Dean a few steps ahead of Sam. When he knocked on the door Camila burst out "Oh Dean! I don't know what happened Y/N went insane and attacked me"

He froze for two reasons, you didn't ever swing without reason and she was trying to put her hands on him. He pushed her back not enough to make her stumble but to make it clear he needed space. "What the hell do you mean?" Camila shrugged "We were talking and she hit me!" She had two tells when she lied, her eyes got too big and her voice got higher.

"What the fuck did you do to Y/N?" He asked letting venom drip into his voice. You weren't here, she'd left you alone in a town you didn't know with few weapons. She had the nerve to fucking grin at him "I got her out of the way so we can get back together. Cmon Dean you know we were good together" she tried to touch him again so he stepped back holding a hand up "Don't! Tell me where the fuck my girlfriend is now!"

--------

Sam called Dean's name after over hearing the conversation and when Dean looked up he waved him over "I can track her phone"

Dean was leaning over Sam's shoulder at the trunk if the impala when he heard Camila say "Told ya" he looked up to see she had his phone. He'd never moved as fast as snatching the phone out of her hand. He looked at the call log to see your number had been called "What did you do?" Camila shrugged "Made sure she won't take you back"

Dean could feel his blood boiling as he stepped back from her "Get it right the only reason I'm not beating your ass is because you're a woman but let's get one thing straight Y/N is it for me. The past Dean you can have him he was young and dumb. She brings out the best in me. There isn't a future for me without her in it. You could live a thousand times over and not be half the woman she is. Don't fucking call me or Sam ever again and after I make a few phone calls you'll be black listed so find a new career besides hunting"

The road stretched out too damn far in front of Dean. You had damn near an hour head start but it didn't take a lot to guess where you were headed considering what direction you were headed in. You would be at Donna's.

Your phone was turned off a while ago but luckily Sam was still able to track it. He needed to see you, see what lies Camila had told you. Why had he trusted her?

He never should've agreed to help her on a hunt. He should've kept the original plans he had and you'd be in his arms right now. "Has Donna answered?" He asked Sam for what felt like the hundredth time. Sam shook his head "No"

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

He never should've made you doubt how he felt. He should've told you the moment he started to fall, he should've trusted that the two of you could face whatever would come together. He should've made sure no one could come between the two of you.

Every damn memory he had of you flashed through his head. When you agreed to move into the bunker, the first time he knew he was developing feelings for you, the first time you kissed. Every damn moment was etched into his mind, you were the best woman he'd ever met. You were beautiful and chaotic, strong but gentle.

The future was something he could finally imagine, retiring from hunting, a ring on your finger. Taking vacations and having a house that didn't double as a fall out shelter. Knowing what was out there but knowing the world was to a point you could hand the reigns over hunting over. Bruises no longer being under his lips when he kissed down your body, no longer being scared he'd have to see you on top of a pyre one day.

He hadn't realized Sam was talking to him until he reached over to shake his arm. "What?" "I said we're almost to Donna's. Are you good?" Dean shook his head "Ask me that after I talk to Y/N"

@lacilou @saranghaey @stoneyggirl2 @marimarvelfan @roseblue373 @suckitands33 @backtotheshitshow @jackles010378 @leigh70 @diagnosedpsychosis @badassbitch-21

[sweetbillwriting]

The Key To His Heart - III

Description: As a hard working novelist and single dad hasn't Bill had much time for dating but gets an unorthodox chance to meet women when his friend persuades him to be a part of a dating TV show.

Characters: AU Bill Skarsgård where his life changes in 2013 and later 2019.

Setting: L.A, 2024 but in an alternative universe with Bill having a completely different life.

Warnings: 18+, NSFW, heavy themes.

Bill's Guests:

Maria: Writer, 38.

Violet: Entrepreneur, 22.

Camila: Engineer, 31.

Victoria: Shop assistant, 34.

Sandra: Fashion designer, 36.

Julie: Model, 25. (Left in episode 2)

Esmeralda: Model, 27.

Rose: Personal trainer, 22.

Odette: Pediatrician, 33.

Tiffany: Actress, 30.

Sienna: Painter, 28.

Brigitte: Chef, 29.

×

It was in the guest house that the drama had settled. The girls living in the mansion didn't relax as much as the others because Bill could suddenly be next to them, but the guest house he hadn't visited. There lived Esmeralda, Odette, Maria, Sandra, Violet, and Brigitte. Earlier also, Julie lived there. The fight between her and Esmeralda wasn't the only tension, though. An irritation hung over the house all the time.

Odette and Brigitte had found a sort of friendship, or at least as close as a friendship you can have when you want the same man. They prepared for the day together in their room when they heard loud voices.

“Don't be so fucking childish!” said Sandra loudly.

“I'm not childish! That was my cucumber!” Answered Violet more upset than angry.

“It's a cucumber! Let it go! And if I'm correct, it isn't even you who paid for it!”

"No, but I ordered it!”

Brigitte looked amused at Odette while braiding her hair, and they both smirked curiously. Sandra had said before that Violet was childish, and they had a feeling she was a bit provoked that 22 year-olds were a part of the show.

“Fine! Go and tell Bill I ate your cucumber then! How do you think he will react to that? It's just childish behavior, and he would feel the same!”

Violet didn't say anything, and the other girls looked at each other with big eyes.

In the kitchen, Violet just stormed out while Sandra and Maria were still there. Sandra rolled her eyes towards Maria, but she looked down in her coffee mug.

“Yesterday she complained that Esmeralda had used lavender shower cream because she can't stand it, like she's the princess here,” said Sandra and shook her head. “And she threatened to tell the TV team about Brigitte,” under the table she made a motion with two fingers. “A bit too often. Okay, we hear her sometimes, but come on, we're all girls!”

Maria nodded a little and took a sip of her coffee.

“She told me she does it because of her cramps, she has big problems with her period, and so on,” explained Maria lowly.

“See! There is even an explanation to it!”

In Odette and Brigitte's bedroom, Brigitte tried to hear what Sandra and Maria were discussing; she had heard her name but nothing more than that.

“Are they talking about me now?”

Odette shrugged her shoulders, pretending she hadn't heard anything.

“Will they bitch about everyone?”

“They seem like the type... But it's nothing to care about. They're just bitter or something.”

×××

Bill would never confess how many situps and pushups he had done in a row. He wanted to seem like he was chill with his training and body, but in reality he could feel a bit of panic for the day.

They were at a fitness resort close by, and he would be with all girls that day at a pool party, and he knew both the women and the viewers would look at his body. He didn't feel self-conscious but wanted to look his best, especially when he knew how he could look if he wanted to. He pulled on the black pair of swimming shorts in a shorter style and looked at himself in the mirror in the locker room. He looked good. Yes, he looked good. He sighed because he knew they had planned it so he would come last and more or less make an entrance in front of the girls. It was silly.

The girls did wait for him by the pool, all of them wearing their nicest swimwear. A few of them covered themselves with a sarong, but most of them seemed comfortable being so naked on TV; some acted more comfortable than they were. All of them waited on Bill with excitement, and several of them already felt Bill was the one they knew best, and because of that, their “safe person.”

Bill walked out to the pool, trying to look relaxed and not like he was thinking about the girls' opinions, but they just looked at him admiringly. The smooth, tanned skin, the height, the broad shoulders. The abs. Odette and Brigitte look at each other with a smirk. So did Victoria and Rose. There wasn't anyone that didn't like what they were seeing.

“Hello, my ladies,” he said, approaching the sun chair where a letter was lying. He was informed by Herman he would get one, but not what would be written in it.

“Hey, Bill!” said the girls almost as if in a chorus, and it made Bill smirk, crooked. They were really there just for him.

He took the letter and sat down in the chair. He was so focused and curious about the letter he didn't notice that the girls still looked at his body a bit too intensely, but they put on their most innocent faces when Bill looked up from the letter to say with his eyes he would read out loud.

“Today you have the whole day to get to know each other better. The whole resort is open to only you, and you can use it however you want. Girls, try to take your chance to be with Bill because, tonight, back at home, two of you need to leave.”

Bill looked up at the girls. His expression was similar to theirs, stressed and uncomfortable. Suddenly the energy wasn't as relaxed and sunny.

“Okay… Ehm… Hm…” Bill said, and in his deep thoughts, he moved to the pool and slipped down the edge to the cold water. There were just four girls in the pool, Maria, Odette, Brigitte, and Sienna, even though the pool was big.

“That was a surprise…” he said to Odette and Brigitte, who were the closest to him.

“Yeah, I had some naive thought we would just be here and chill,” said Brigitte and looked at him with big blue eyes. Her hair was gathered in a long, thick braid over her shoulder. Bill nodded in agreement.

“Feels like you and I haven't even had time to say hello yet,” he said with an awkward laugh. Brigitte laughed too, and it looked like she was on her way to say something before Odette interrupted her.

“We haven't had much time together either,” she said, smiling at Bill. He agreed but silently thought he hadn't had much time with the other ones either, just Rose.

“Have you visited this place before?” asked Brigitte and moved so that she was on the other side of Bill instead of having Odette between them.

“Yeah, they have a good brunch, and my oldest thinks it's fun to play some tennis... You were a chef, right?”

“Yeah, and I promise, my brunch is better,” she said cheekily and made Bill chuckle.

“Yeah, any specialities?”

“I would say my green crepes, but crepes, that's like pancakes for Swedes, right?”

“Yeah, it is. So I rarely make American pancakes; they grow in your mouth after a while.”

Brigitte faked offense, and Bill laughed at her with his hands up.

“Sorry! But you also do crepes!”

Brigitte giggled and nodded.

“Maybe there is some truth to it, and my mom is French…”

Odette looked at them talking and how big Brigitte made Bill smile, so when there were a few seconds of silence, she laid her hand on Bill's elbow.

“Can't we just take a little walk?”

Bill looked away from Brigitte to Odette and smiled.

“Sure, I can show you the resort.”

Brigitte gave her friend a look, it wasn't a friendly one.

The resort was bigger than Odette had thought, and it had several tennis courts, more pools, well arranged gardens, and an outdoor spa. They stopped by the tennis court, where Odette pulled Bill down for a seat on a bench. They had talked softly about a lot of things, and it flowed on well. She was calm and warm and made him relax. It was simple. They got 30 minutes for themselves before...

“Bill? Do you want to play?” It was Tiffany, dressed in a red bikini top and white denim shorts. She pointed towards the tennis court. Bill gave Odette an apologetic smile, who looked disappointed at both Bill and Tiffany.

“Sure!”

He guessed the day would be like that, being pulled away from one woman by another. It was a luxury, but he was afraid it would mean he would never be able to talk with them deeply.

He played a friendly match of tennis with Tiffany as he would with his oldest daughter. He noticed she was a beginner and didn't want to startle her with a hard ball in the right corner. He himself wasn't such an experienced tennis player either, but he learned fast, so when his daughter started to play, he got the hang of it. He also had read about it online to get better; he didn't do anything half-ass.

Tiffany giggled when they took a break and fixed her wild curls.

“I think you're holding back!”

Bill smirked and leaned against the judge’s chair.

“Of course not!”

Tiffany smiled, amused, in a pointed way. Bill licked his lips and shrugged his shoulders.

“Maybe a little.”

“I knew it! But I guess that's gentlemanly of you.”

“I try!” Bill stretched his back so it cracked. Tiffany stood and looked at him a while, then she softly took his hand and pulled him to the bench he had been sitting on with Odette earlier.

“You know… I had a boyfriend, Haadi, who died of cancer a few years ago.”

Bill looked at her first but then looked away uncomfortably. He knew where this would lead. He met Herman's eyes far away, and he wondered if he was hiding back there because he had planned this. Americans always liked a sad story.

“I'm sorry…” he said and gave Tiffany a fast look.

“It was five years ago, so I guess it must have been the same year your-”

Bill cleared his throat and stood up. “I'm sorry, Tiffany, but I really don't want to talk about that here and now. And I think lunch is soon.” He looked towards the restaurant just to escape her stare. Tiffany looked at him with panic.

“I'm sorry, I'm sorry Bill…”

He smiled strained but didn't look at her.

×××

Kate was a sensitive topic for Bill, not because he hadn't worked through it, but more so because cancer was a subject always making him uncomfortable because people believed he would be an expert on the subject or people began to ask about his life currently with curiosity and intrusively trying to find out how his girls had taken her death.

They walked back to the restaurant where they had started to serve lunch, and Bill sat down on his place, the edge of the table. Clearly he had made Tiffany uncomfortable because she walked up to Sienna instead of staying by his side.

He looked around at the girls when he had a few minutes to just think. He didn't even want to confess it to himself, but he looked at their bodies while they were so naked. It was the ones who he had expected that awakened lust in him. He licked his lips and tried to stop staring at the girls.

He hadn't had sex for six months. The last few years had he just succeeded in having a few one night stands, and he had had one woman who he could call if he had wanted to, but she gave up on him quickly because he never had time. Arranging a babysitter to get laid wasn't anything he could do with a good conscience.

Could he let someone stay because they were hot? Because he wanted to lay on top of them?

He could. He looked at soft thighs and a curved, tanned back. He could give one more chance. It wasn't like anyone needed to know what the reason was.

“You like to cook too?” Asked Brigitte, who had sat down next to him. It took some seconds for Bill to hear what she had actually said and force himself to look at her.

“Ehm, yeah. Yeah, I love it,” said he with a smile. “But I'm probably not as good as you.”

“I think we're good at different things.”

“Yeah? What's your thing?” Bill shoved a tomato in his mouth.

“Meat and sauces, I think. I work at a meat based restaurant.”

“Really? I would have said I'm best at meat too, but I think you're better than me at that.”

Brigitte giggled a little and gave him a teasing smile. Bill smirked back; he liked that she didn't protest and that she more or less confessed she was better than him. Too many women diminished themselves to flatter a man; she didn't.

“I would love to try your food.”

“You should. I make the best lamb with mint sauce.”

“Is that your signature dish?”

“Probably, or my homemade sausage.”

Bill looked impressed.

“Seriously? Fuck, that's impressive!”

Some seats further away sat Odette and looked at her friend and the man she wanted. All of the girls looked annoyed that Bill gave Brigitte his full attention, but no one was as irritated as her.

When Brigitte and him got to a natural pause, he looked at Victoria, who walked by.

“Would you want to visit the balcony with me? There’s a really great view there,” he said with a charming smile. Victoria blushed red all the way down her neck.

“Oh, yeah, okay,” she said with a giggle and fixed her baby pink bikini top. While Bill stood up, Victoria looked at one of the lounge chairs.

“I will just... ” She ran to the chair and then pulled on an Aztec patterned kimono. Bill looked at her disappointed, and she seemed to have noticed because she looked at him confused.

“Is it something?”

“Oh, no, no.” He scratched his neck and looked towards the big building.

They walked in silence up to the balcony, not because they didn't have anything to say, just that they wanted to be far away from the other girls’ nosy stares.

“Wow! This is amazing!” exclaimed Victoria when they were up and looked down at the view of California’s nature. Bill looked almost proud when he looked out over the view and the afternoon sun. It wasn't even his country, but he had started to see it as his home. He had lived there for quite many years.

“I thought New Yorkers hate Los Angeles?” said Bill teasingly. Victoria shrugged her shoulders with an embarrassed smile.

“It's a different feeling. I like the rougher vibe, but you're more Hollywood?” It sounded like she teased him, but Bill couldn't see the playfulness in her eyes.

“No, not really. I preferred New York before I moved here, but life, you know, it takes you to places you never thought.”

Victoria shrugged her shoulders. Bill looked out over the view and felt again that feeling he had felt at the cocktail party. They didn't match.

“Working at a bookstore, you must read a lot?”

“Ehm… Not really, actually. I can feel that books and authors have a tendency to tell the same story over and over.” Bill nodded a little, but in reality he couldn't understand what she said. Everything was stories. Books, movies, series, even documentaries. Didn't she consume anything of it? He was a writer, a former actor; his whole life was stories.

“Do you read a lot?” She asked and looked at him with uncertainty; maybe she had felt his vibe.

“Yeah, when I don't write myself. Then I do research for my own books… Yeah, I would say I read a lot.”

Victoria nodded and then giggled.

“You would have a lot to talk about with my dad, then.”

Bill smiled at her, but it was forced. It wasn't her dad he wanted to be able to talk with, but with her. Discreetly, he looked at her baby pink bikini top and the swell of her breasts, then he looked out over the view again with a deep exhalation.

×××

The sun had started to go down when Bill took a walk by himself around the gardens after being with several of the girls around the pool. He had a lot to think about, and the girls didn't make it easy for him. He didn't really have feelings for any of them, but he had many mixed thoughts about them. It seemed like all of them had qualities he both liked and disliked, and some girls he felt potential with, but it just hadn't bloomed yet. In normal life he would have given a woman a longer chance, but here he needed to say goodbye just by a feeling or some awkward seconds. He wanted to get to know them better but also think things through, but it wasn't time. When he came around the corner, he saw Sienna sitting in a heated pool by herself. Her middle-length dark hair was wet and slicked back over her head. She smiled shyly at him but still looked inviting. Bill walked up to her with long, slow strides.

“Are you here alone?”

“Yeah, it can get a bit much,” she said and looked down in the water, embarrassed. Bill smirked in understanding but slipped down into the water without an invitation. The water was so warm it stung his skin for a few seconds. He hoped to be able to talk with her, but once again that awkward feeling crept up on him. He didn't know what to say at all, and she was just as quiet. He noticed she was shy, and it seemed to infect him. He was also shy but could often master it, but with another person being just as awkward as himself, his head became empty and his limbs restless.

“So… You're a painter, right?” He asked after some awkward minutes.

“Yeah,” she said shortly. Bill nodded and crawled down deeper in the water so his shoulders were also under the surface.

“What do you paint?”

“Ehm… Right now it's mostly zebras.” Sienna didn't look at him. Bill waited a few seconds to see if she would give him an explanation of her motives, but she continued to be quiet. He started to regret having crawled down in the pool with her; now he was stuck there and couldn't just walk away; it would be too mean.

“I have read all your books,” Sienna suddenly said, and Bill looked at her surprised. He had started to give up on having a conversation with her.

“Yeah? Do you like them?” He asked curiously.

“Most of them. Sometimes they feel a bit try-hard.”

Bill looked at her shocked with furrowed eyes. Sienna looked up at him and smiled a bit teasingly, and Bill laughed. Her comment was unexpected.

“Here is the man I've been searching for!” announced a feminine voice behind him. Esmeralda crouched down next to his head and dragged her finger over his neck. It was a nice sensation, and it made Bill smile big.

“I want a massage; can't you join me?”

Bill turned to her and met her whiskey eyes. He licked his lips slowly and nodded.

“Sure.”

He gave Sienna an apologetic smile before lifting himself out of the hot water to Esmeralda. He looked at Esmeralda with a smile and felt something in his stomach. Maybe he had started to get feelings for someone after all.

×××

It was silent between them. Bill and Esmeralda walked close together, but none of them said anything, but it didn't matter because the silence was completely different from the silence with Sienna or Victoria, this silence was full of warm tension. Bill snuck looks at Esmeralda's beautiful profile, and she did the same, admiring his full lips and upturned nose. She giggled a little and let her fingers touch his. Bill smirked, looked at her, and caught her hand when she dragged her fingertips over his knuckles. They threaded their fingers together and gave each other a blushing smile.

They took a detour to the spa and spoke softly about their kids but also their experiences in the model industry. Bill had some experience with it from a younger age, while Esmeralda had worked in it since she was sixteen. Now she was older and curvier and mostly did work for fast fashion brands. She confessed it wasn't her dream job anymore and thought about doing something else. Bill listened with full attention. Even if they talked about such simple subjects, he could hear in her way of expressing herself that she was intelligent, and he felt his attraction to her grow every minute. She spoke like a strong woman.

“Have you noticed he has talked with almost everyone today except us?” said Sandra to Maria, where they sat by the pool together. “The old spinsters.”

Maria sighed, putting her sunglasses on her head.

“He hasn't talked with everyone; there’s several he hasn't talked to, and that doesn't need to be a bad thing. Maybe he's very sure of us.”

“Oh right, sure like that?”

Sandra nodded bitterly towards Bill and Esmeralda, who walked close together, hand in hand, they didn't even think about that the others could see them. Maria looked at them but lowered her eyes fast with jealousy.

“It's always like that; they have a favorite in the beginning but they forget fast. Nothing to worry about.”

Maria stretched out in her lounge chair, trying to look sure of her thing, but in reality she became worried too. Two lounge chairs away sat Camila, who had heard everything she said about him having a favorite in the beginning who he would soon forget. Bill hadn't given her many glances that day. Instead, other women seemed to be more interesting, especially Esmeralda. Camila looked at Bill and Esmeralda as they walked into the spa and how Bill changed from holding her hand to lying it around her waist and pulling her closer to his body. Esmeralda had the privilege to feel his naked skin against hers while she hadn't even met his eyes that day. 

××× 

The sun stood low in the sky and made everything golden around them. They lay next to each other on massage tables while two female masseuses rubbed their backs. Bill laid with his cheek pressed against the table to be able to look at Esmeralda; she laid the same way but had her eyes shut, but with a playful smile on her lips, she knew he was looking at her. Bill admired her face but also her golden back, glowing from the massage oil. He wished he could be the one touching her, but it would be too early to do such a thing on the show; both of them would probably look slutty. Instead, he stretched his long arm out and tickled her forearm lightly. Esmeralda opened her eyes and looked at him, then down at his open palm in front of her. She giggled and took his hand in hers. Their clasped hands hung between the table the rest of the massage. Bill gave her 90 minutes of his time and didn't even think about the women who hadn't gotten any of his time. 

××× 

The Orangery: 

Esmeralda: I like him way too much already. I would be devastated if he let me go. 

Sandra: It’s starting to feel a bit hopeless; he just talks with the same girls over and over. I’m starting to wonder what I'm doing here. 

×××

Back in the house, the energies were all over the place. Two would leave Bill's residence, and it could be anyone. Or anyone except Esmeralda. All of them had noticed how he favored her. She had gotten much more time than anyone else, and he also held her hand. It sounded like something from a 50s movie where hand holding was a big step, but there, in the show, everything became a big deal; who Bill chose to sit next to was even a big deal. 

Bill was also nervous. His walk in closet had become the room where all those emotions were let out because it was there he made himself ready for the ceremonies. This night he had a loose fit black button up and a pair of dark gray slacks. It was his stylist who had put the outfit together, and he paired it with some simple silver jewelry.

“Are you ready?” Herman asked and looked Bill up and down. He looked ready. Bill fixed his hair one last time, and with a shaky exhalation, he nodded. 

Bill was taken aback by how many of the women that wore black. It was really just two of them who wore color, Rose and Tiffany. Rose wore a baby pink dress and Tiffany wore a multicolored maxi dress; otherwise, the others were dressed like they would go to a funeral. Bill wasn't better himself, and he wondered if all of them felt stress about that two would be leaving that night. 

“So, tonight I must send two of you home... I hope you know it's not an easy decision, and I wish I could’ve had more time with all of you ehm…”

He turned his gaze from them to look at the keys on the velvet cushion, and after a few seconds he took the first one in his hand. 

Esmeralda. 

There were some annoyed faces behind Esmeralda, but neither Bill nor Esmeralda cared; they just smiled warmly at each other, and she gave him a kiss on the cheek when he had given her the key. 

Brigitte.

Tiffany. 

Camila. 

Sienna. 

Maria. 

Violet.

Sandra.

Rose. 

It was silent in the room, especially because Odette had started crying. No one was prepared for her to be the one who needed to leave; she and Bill had spoken a lot, and she was that kind of girl who was easy to like. There were others they thought Bill had a much smaller interest in. Still, he had chosen to send her home. 

Victoria became forgotten in the tumult with Odette and stood awkwardly by herself when several of the girls started to comfort Odette. 

Bill stood as awkwardly to the side as Victoria. He met her eyes and gave her a sad smile. She smiled back and gave him a shoulder shrug. She didn't make it a big thing and walked up to him. She still wore the same smile and gave him a hug. 

“I get it, sometimes it's just not right.” She shrugged her shoulders again. Bill smiled and nodded a little. 

“Yeah… I'm sorry.” 

“It's okay. Thank you for your hospitality,” she said before saying goodbye to Sienna and Rose, then she walked to her room to get her things. 

Bill wondered if Victoria might have even thought to herself that they didn't match. They were too different from each other. Odette, on the other hand, was much more like him, but he didn't feel the thing with her either. 

Slowly, he walked up to the girls. Odette stood and hugged Violet, but the other girls stepped back. She looked at Bill with red eyes. He swallowed hard. It was never fun making someone sad. 

“Do you want to talk?” He asked and pointed towards the door to the deck. She wiped away some tears, and Violet let her go carefully. Odette nodded, said goodbye to the girls, and followed him out, but she ignored Brigitte’s open arms. 

Bill leaned against the railing, and Odette did the same thing with a little sob. Bill didn't do a thing about her tears because it would be even more awkward if he started to hug her or something. He had made her cry, and he couldn't do anything about it. 

“To be honest, this was really unexpected… I really felt we had something?” She said and dried her tears again. Bill felt his own emotions push in his chest, but it wasn't romantic feelings for her. It was just terrible guilt, he felt like he had fooled her.

“We do have something, but for me it would be friendship. I really like you, but I don't feel... Anymore than that.” 

Odette looked at him with shiny eyes. 

“Oh.” 

“I really think you're a great person, and it's so easy to hang out with you, but maybe too easy?” 

Bill tried to talk as carefully as he could, but he could see on her face that his words hurt her, but he didn't know how to say it otherwise. 

Odette nodded a little.

“I guess it's good bye now then?” 

She stood up in front of him, and Bill straightened up too. 

“Yeah… I'm sorry…” He said and gave her a friendly hug. He didn't even need to try to hold back; a friendly hug was the only thing he had for her. 

××× 

The orangery: 

Bill: Victoria is wonderful, but I couldn't find anything we had in common. 

Odette is an amazing girl, and I really could see us being friends, but I felt quite fast that was the only thing between us. It was better saying goodbye at once when I was so sure of my feelings. 

× 

[cwritesforfun]

Eddie Roundtree x Fem!Reader: Introverts & Parties Don't Mix Well

You're in the band and while you are close to all of them, you and Eddie tend to gravitate to each other.

Y/N = Your First Name & L/N = Your Last Name

Narrator = Julia Dunne (but Narrator for sake of the story)

** I do not own the DJATS characters or plot ** **** The timeline is going to seem weird lol but I'm just writing what I want to write lol ****

Masterlist

Y/N's POV

Narrator: This is just going to be your introduction. So could you tell us who you are and how you got into Daisy Jones & The Six? Y/N: Hi everyone I am Y/N L/N! I have always loved listening to music and creating music. When I was younger, I started with piano and guitar. Then in middle school, I learned flute and piccolo because I wanted to be in a concert band. I joined a band with friends outside of school in early high school and we played some small gigs in town. After high school, I moved to Los Angeles and met Karen within my first week. Her band needed an extra musician and I filled the spot. I followed Karen wherever she went, and she did the same with me. If one of us left a band then so did the other. We only joined a band if we both could. I learned sound engineering and technology to do anything a band could need. Karen took up something else. I'm feeling really tired at the moment, so I honestly can't remember. You’ll have to ask her. The Dunne Brothers played after us at this bar. We met the boys there. I wasn’t interested in being social and I left, but they liked Karen. So, we changed bands. Narrator: Were you angry that you had to leave? Y/N: No. The band we were with never liked our ideas or respected us anyway. They also wanted Karen & I to dress a certain way that we didn't want to. Karen: I just wanted to make music and I wanted to do it with Y/N. She is and was my best friend. Narrator: Did either of you ever think about splitting ways? Karen: Never. Y/N: Never. Narrator: Wow, and would you say you're both still best friends? Karen: Yes. Y/N: Yes. Narrator: We already talked about Karen joining. What about Y/N? How did you feel about her joining? Billy: We needed a keyboard player, which was Karen. Her only condition on which she would accept our offer to join the band was to let Y/N join as well. The rest of the band liked Karen and thought that it was worth it to bring in Y/N too. I'm glad we did. Y/N is and was such a kind soul. She was also very kind to Camila and you growing up, so yeah I was a fan. Warren: Y/N, yeah I found her hot. We saw her play and she rocked hardcore. She also had a cool voice, so I was on board. As soon as I saw how Eddie looked at her, I knew he was a goner. That man was lost in the world of Y/N even before we met her. Daisy: I liked her a lot. Her vocal range was amazing and I could listen to her for hours. Y/N was always kind to me. I consider her to this day one of my close friends. Graham: Y/N was cool. To be honest, I was more focused on Karen at the time, so I was all for letting Y/N join. We don't keep in touch as much as I would have liked because of well Karen. Eddie: She could sing, she knew how to work any sound technology, she could play so many instruments, and she was single. Yeah, I was interested in her as soon as we were told she could join.

Narrator: How were the early days for you? The boys talked a lot about the parties. Did you like the groupies and parties? Y/N: God, I hated the parties at first. Introverts and Parties, they don't mix well. I realized that part of being in a band is doing things they like and interacting with them in social spaces. Even if I preferred being alone in my room, I wanted to be close to the band. And, if I hadn’t been pulled out of my comfort zone at those parties, I never would’ve fallen for Eddie. Narrator: Were you always closest with Eddie? Other than Karen, that is. Y/N: Yes, I was. Graham mainly hung out with Karen and he only talked to me if it would make him look good for Karen. Obviously, I was still close to Karen. Daisy was not always in the right headspace, which made me too worried to hang out with her because I wanted her to be safe. Billy was too serious at work but he was cool at parties. Camila was kind and I would talk to her at a lot of parties. Warren was so outgoing that I was anxious being around him at parties because he would try to get me to take more shots or take drugs. He was cool during recording sessions and for work though. And as for Eddie, I knew he was talented and Billy didn’t see his full potential. I also knew that some of Eddie’s ideas were good ones if we just went through with them. He was also a really inspiring songwriter and had a sweet voice. He'd probably hate that I called it sweet, but it always felt like home to me. Eddie: Y/N was always supportive of me and my ideas. She would listen to demos of songs that I’d written and we’d write together. She was a great lyricist on top of everything else she was amazing at. She was perfect to me. Y/N: Before we started dating, Eddie and I would spend a lot of time together. Warren always joked that Eddie and I should just cut the sexual tension by having sex. He also kept telling us that we should date because we clearly both liked each other. We were both coming to terms with seriously liking each other, so we would then just make fun of Warren for getting drunk and we wouldn’t talk about it. We just agreed to move on. Well not until this one party…

Skip to the party ~

You hang with Billy, Camila, and Daisy drinking before you decide to head outside to see if it’s quieter and calmer. Billy and Daisy are tolerating each other, so you feel good leaving them with Camila.

You notice no one sitting at the table by the fire pit so you grab a new drink and sit down. A guy you’ve seen at parties before starts talking to you and sits in the chair next to you. You decide to be polite so you keep talking to him.

You feel arms wrap around your neck and can tell it’s Eddie. You know his cologne and you know his hugs. He leans down, kisses your cheek, and exclaims, “I was wondering where you were, babe. Who’s your new friend?” The guy looks between you two, gets up, and runs away. It makes you and Eddie laugh. Eddie takes the guy’s seat and says, “I saw you out here and you looked bored. I wanted to save you from that guy.” You reply, “He was being polite and he never even talked about sex. It was nice actually. But, I just wanted to be alone to drink by the fire. It was getting way too much inside the house with all those people.” Eddie replies, “Yeah, tonight's energy is not the best. And, I did get myself into a bit of a sticky situation. I need your help.” You ask, “Sure, what’s up?” He answers, “I need you to go inside with me and pretend to be my girlfriend. Some of the groupies and Warren are annoying me. I want them to leave me alone and I'll even sneak somewhere quiet with you after.” You ask, “Why me?” He answers, “Everyone thinks we’re already dating. I thought it would be the easiest option... and well they asked if you were the girlfriend and I said yes.” You nod. So it’s just out of convenience and he agreed to a lie that you wish was true. You say, “Sure boyfriend. What do I need to know before we go in?” He tells you the plan as you walk in. You know Eddie and he loves physical touch. So you give him permission to be touchy as if you were actually dating and he gets a little flustered at the idea.

Eddie’s hand finds yours as you walk. He twirls you around and you dance together. Your hands go around his neck and his go on your waist. You ask, "Ready?" He looks confused and asks, "For what?" You answer, "A kiss, babe." You then pull him closer and you kiss. You wish you could say it was a horrible kiss, but the truth is, it was the best kiss you had up to that point in your life. You felt the fireworks everyone talked about. Eddie pulls away, puts his forehead to yours, and says, "Holy wow that was a kiss... I think I need something cold." You laugh and pull him toward the fridge. You hand him a cold beer that you open by kicking it with your foot. Eddie's jaw drops and he says, "Wtf, I didn't know you could do that." You press a kiss to his lips and say, "That's good, babe. It keeps the relationship more interesting." Eddie replies, "It really does."

You hear, "Well well well... if it isn't traitors." You see Warren with hands on his hips and girls hanging all over him. You ask, "Why are we traitors?" Warren answers, "You two have been fu**ing and dating without telling me. I've wanted you two to date since you two met. I thought you two would tell me first. Eddie was in love from the first time he saw you, Y/N." Great news great news... ok self act like this is old news... You wrap an arm around Eddie and say, "I know. It's so cute how he fell for me on day one. And Warren, we've been keeping it a secret. We didn't anyone to know just yet." Eddie's arm finds your waist and he adds, "We were waiting for the right time. We didn't want to steal anyone's thunder." One of the girls asks, "You two are hot. Are you looking for a third?" You smirk and answer, "We don't like sharing." Warren lets out a laugh and says, "Staking your claim on your man, wow. Eddie, do you feel the same? You've done an orgy or two." Eddie smirks and replies, "Hearing the woman you love moan your name during an orgasm is more satisfying than being with multiple people." You feel your cheeks blush and you move a little because it is feeling a little hot in here. Warren says, "I'll leave you two to it then." He walks away with the girls.

(( PLAY THIS NOW for the full experience ))

Before you and Eddie can talk, the power goes out. You all start passing out candles and flashlights. Karen finds you, pulls you into a hug, and leads you to the piano. She starts playing and you start singing. Daisy joins you and you both twirl each other around. Eddie starts playing and his eyes meet yours. They never leave you as you sing. Daisy starts singing with Billy and you join Karen on the piano bench. Karen lets you play with her. Everyone is singing and it's magical. It feels so nice being here with friends doing what you love.

People start leaving after that and you go to your bedroom to wait for everyone to clear out. You also are trying to avoid Eddie because tonight did crazy things for your heart. You knew how much you cared about Eddie, but tonight made you fall deeper for him. It's going to be hard to keep going with hiding your feelings. Maybe you should tell him? If he says he sees you as a friend, then well... you could just quit the band. Karen should stay though. She fits in well.

You leave your room and Eddie is standing there staring at you. He exclaims, "Hey uh I need to talk to you." You reply, "Funny, I need to talk to you too." He replies, "Oh good... Can I come in?" You nod and he walks in. You ask, "So, what do you need to talk about? Does it uh... does it have to do with our little act tonight?" He answers, "Yeah it does... great job by the way. I think it really worked. You're a great actress." Actress... yeah you were acting. Your shoulders deflate and you sigh. So he must not feel the same. He asks, "What's wrong? You seem upset." You answer, "Because Eddie Roundtree, I like you. And tonight's little act wasn't acting for me! I like you a lot and I want to date you if you would like to go on a date with me." His jaw drops and he exclaims, "I really like you too. Ever since I saw you sing for the first time, I knew you were it for me." You ask, "So then kiss me like you mean it?" He smirks, pushes you onto the bed, and kisses you deeply.

Your door creaks open and Eddie stays on top of you. Warren jumps and says, "Oh sh**! I thought you two were kidding when you said you were dating. I'm backing out of this room slowly or I could stay and watch. This is kind of hot." On sync, Eddie and I scream, "LEAVE!" Warren backs out of the room and Eddie collapses next to you with laughter. He says, "You smell really good. Can I stay in your bed tonight? I want to smell like you." You answer, "You can stay here, but won't you be uncomfortable sleeping in jeans?" He smirks, "Babe if you wanted to see me naked, you could just say it." You cover your face with your hands as you blush while saying, "I just want you to be comfy. I'm going to put on different clothes. I'm not sleeping in this dress." He replies, "Well babe, you looked really hot tonight. I don't know if this dress was to get my attention, but it worked. I want you to wear this on our first date." You smile and say, "I can't wait for our first date. And, I did wear this dress for you." He smiles and you kiss again.

You change into your pajamas and Eddie asks, "Is it okay to sleep in my boxers?" You answer, "Sure." He lays down in my bed and replies, "Your room is quieter than my room. Wtf! Is this how you sleep every night? I laugh and say, "Yeah. It's because I'm next door to Karen who we all know is too down bad over Graham to properly hook up with someone so it's quiet. I also don't share a wall with Warren or Billy who are little sex demons." He laughs and replies, "You're so lucky. Don't be surprised if I start sleeping in here." You laugh and reply, "I don't mind. You can take your afternoon naps here if you want as well. I usually am on my runs or reading outside at those times." He replies, "You're making me feel so spoiled." You laugh and ask, "But you have to do one thing for me, do you promise?" He asks, "What? I'd do anything for you." You answer, "I kind of wrote this song about you and I want you to listen to it. You're always really good at helping me improve my lyrics and you give me such helpful critiques. I want to eventually release this song even if not with the band. I just really like it." He smiles and replies, "A song about me? And why would you release without the band? Oh wait Billy would probably not want it because he's not the star. True." You reply, "I don't think any one of us is the star of the band. We all have star potential and star qualities. Billy is talented, but he needs to learn to compromise. The song about you is about my crush on you."

Narrator: How was the song? Eddie: It was so cute. Y/N is an amazing singer and her lyrics had me blushing so much. Her little smile as she stared at me while singing was melting my heart. I told her to change one line because I think another word fits instead of what she wrote, but it was perfect. Teddy actually helped Y/N produce and release it, which we all supported. Y/N was staying in the band, so no one minded. Y/N: Eddie was so cute when I played it. Teddy also really liked it and said it would be a summer hit. Sure enough, it was. Narrator: How was the rest of the tour? Y/N: Insane wow! I opened our summer shows to play my single with Eddie as my lead guitarist, which was fun. We'd then run off and run back on with the rest of the band. Everyone loved my song including the rest of the band. Eddie and I had fun at every show. We spent some nights drinking out with the rest of the band. Some days I wanted to have a chill night and Eddie wanted to be wherever I was, so we would spend some time with Billy in his bus. Billy and Eddie would act civil in front of me. It was nice. We had fun... until it wasn't fun anymore. The tour ended. The band broke up. Most people wouldn't talk to each other. Narrator: What about you and Eddie? Y/N: I got my stuff from Karen's place and moved in with Eddie. We shared rent, and cooking responsibilities, and just enjoyed being together. He became a music producer and helped me produce music. I've played some small venues and started creating a fan base. It's really cool to do what you love with someone you love. Eddie: Don't tell Y/N, but I'm proposing tomorrow night.

Masterlist

[ordinaryschmuck]

Full Family AU Part Eight

Camila sat at the family computer, with Vee sitting at the other end of the room, observing her.

"Bass...Ill...Isk," Camila muttered as she typed it into a search engine. "Hm, did you mean 'Basilisk,' sweetie?"

Vee responded with a short nod. Camila clicked the "Did you mean" button and got a more accurate list of results.

"Of course the first thing that pops up is Harry Potter," Camila groaned. "This might take a minute, Vee. Here."

She opens a drawer and pulls out some crayons. Then, moving to the printer, Camila takes out some paper. It made Vee curious of what she was going to do, and then Camila slowly walked over to hand the paper and crayons to Vee.

"You might want to color for a while."

"Color...?" Vee asked.

"Yeah, it's what I have Luz do when I need the computer for important reasons. Helps to keep her entertained and use that creative mind of hers right. Watch."

Camila demonstrated by drawing a little squiggle on the paper with a blue crayon and then handed it to Vee to take a turn. Vee sniffed the crayon a bit, took it, and tried making a squiggle of her own. Satisfied with this perfectly planned parental distraction, Camila went back to sit at the computer to continue her research. She scrolled past the Harry Potter wiki and went straight for the wiki about basilisks.

"'Legendary reptile reputed to be a serpent king...who causes death to those who look into its eyes?'" she read. Camila turned to Vee, who looked up from her coloring to make eye-contact. "Well, I'm not dead, so that's not accurate. Are you sure you're a basilisk?"

Vee nodded again. "It's...what they called me."

"You said that before. Who's they?"

"Men...In robes...And big noses..."

Camila hums in thought and then got an idea when she looked at the crayon in Vee's hand. "Could you draw what they look like?"

Vee looked at the other crayons Camila gave her as well as the few sheets of paper she had left. She grabbed the paper, the crayons, and started drawing the best as she could. As for Camila, she turned back to the computer.

"Let's see..." She scrolls through the rest of the article. "Can leave a venomous trail--Hope that's not true...Lots of stuff about kings...Weakness is the smell of the weasel? I can't tell if some of this is true or people are making things up for the heck of it."

After some more time scrolling, Camila feels a tug at her pant leg. Glancing downward, she noticed Vee holding up a paper she drew on.

"The men," she said. And to Camila, it looked like...nothing. It was a bunch of squiggles of different colors, mostly black, dark blue, and light blue. And a bit of red in some spots.

"I...don't think any of this is accurate," Camila told her, which got Vee to pout a little. "But it's fine. You're a baby who likely never drew before. Nothing you can't handle without a little more practice."

Vee sniffed. "Not baby...Bas-ill-isk..."

"Whatever you are, it looks like only you know the answers to it." Camila sighed. "All the internet seems to have are fantasy stories or weird facts that do not line up with what I've seen of you. Unless you are allergic to weasels or something."

"What's a weasel?"

"It's, uh, well..." Camila did another web search and then lifted Vee up to sit in her lap. On the computer screen was a picture of a weasel. "It's a type of mammal. A lot like a ferret, in fact?"

"Ferret?"

"Yeah." Camila did another web search to pull up a picture of a ferret. "Like I said, the same thing. And while some might call them rodents, that's a whole different family together. You see..."

Camila did a lot of other web searches, showing Vee a vast array of animals and all the fun facts that Camila knew about them. All while Vee just sat, her eyes shiny and astonished to see this new, wide world in front of her.

[thesixenthusiast]

ruby – eddie roundtree

part two (part one, part three, part four)

pairing: eddie rountree x fem!oc (may change to x reader) warnings: drinking/drugs (billy/daisy's addictions) word count: 1.5k author's note: please bear with me in this, if there's a few time mix ups just with the order of things, please do let me know but i'm trying to find an equal balance between the book and show and it's a little difficult lol

BILLY DUNNE: At one of our gigs we were talking to Rod Reyes, he gave us some pointers, told us what to do and what not to do, and then he told us to go west. We were all out of school by then and decided maybe it was the best option for us.

ROD REYES (tour manager, The Six): The band had the look they needed, Billy was a natural born rockstar, the long hair, the deep voice, that deadpan look when he doesn’t get his way. Juliet had the rockstar look down, she had this long hair, big hair too, and dark makeup that she never really learned how to use properly.​​ The girls wanted to be her and the guys wanted to sleep with her. And her voice.. she had this raspy voice that she never seemed to tire out. I told Billy, I told him, get her out from behind you, get her out of singing back up, sing a song or two with her, mix things up, people’ll get bored of just hearing you. Most importantly, I told them to get the fuck out of Pittsburgh.

GRAHAM DUNNE: The six of us decided to move out to L.A..

–

The Six settled into life in Los Angeles, renting a house in the hills of Topanga Canyon. They prepared to begin recording their debut album. Teddy, along with a team of technicians, including lead engineer Artie Snyder, set up shop at Sound City Studios, a recording studio in Van Nuys, California.

The band, Camila alongside, started getting their name out there. They played gigs at clubs and bars, doing near-anything to make a name for themselves on the Sunset Strip. Not too long after, they decided to record an album.

“I feel fully content with my decision to not take your bedroom, Warren,” Juliet hummed in response to Warren’s bragging over having the only bedroom with a bathroom, “Very few people would consider a stray toilet in the corner of your room to be a bathroom, I am proudly not one of those people.” Eddie waltzed into the kitchen, where the group was situated getting ready for the day.

“I’ve been thinking,” he started, taking a seat next to Juliet, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees, “We need a new name, The Dunne Brothers isn’t cutting it for us.”

“Thank you!” Karen yelled, propping herself up against the counter to face the rest of the group.

“I agree, but let’s be realistic,” Juliet reasoned, “you’re never going to get six people to agree on a name.” She leaned against Warren’s shoulder, who was contributing little to the conversation due to how stoned he was.

“We could take the easy way out,” Graham piped in, “The Six.”

“The Six,” Warren hummed, nodding blissfully at the suggestion.

–

JULIET OPAL: The Six. [Smiles] Warren admitted later that he only liked it because it sounded similar to “The Sex,” I don’t think that was a big part of it for anyone else.

EDDIE ROUNDTREE: Julie really liked the name, that was a big part of it for me.

GRAHAM DUNNE: We finished the album, we were going on tour, we needed a real name, it felt right. Plus it was kinda my idea. [Smiles]

–

Karen and Juliet were draped across the living room carpet, attempting to escape the California heat as the fan that was weakly shackled to the ceiling rotated above them. The girls were taken out of their silent daze with a yelling and laughter radiating from the porch as the rest of the group made their way inside mumbling something about a wedding.

The girls sat up, exhaustion dissipating from their bodies when Camila announced that she was pregnant and her and Billy were getting married that night. They jumped up, Juliet hoisting Karen up from the rug and her sleep deprivation-ridden state, and ran over to congratulate the couple, pulling Camila away from the group and to her closet to pick out her dress.

Later that afternoon, Juliet stood in the dimly-lit backyard, and strung pieces of aluminum foil through the various trees and rosemary bushes speckled across the yard. Eddie crept up behind her, grabbing her wrist, which ultimately led to her dropping the wad of foil into the grass, and spinning her around to face him.

“Eddie!” She looked down at her spilt decorations with a lackluster expression, though a grin was pulling on the corners of her mouth, Eddie made sure not to miss that.

“No, eyes up here,” he lifted up her chin with his other hand and smiled at her, grabbing her other hand and intertwining their fingers as he started to dance with her, “I need practice for tonight, don’t want to make a fool of myself on the dance floor. What time is the minister getting here?”

“I’d hardly call it a dance floor, it’s the same bed of grass you passed out on last week and Warren puked on yesterday,” he laughed, spinning her and then pulling her closer as they continued to dance, “He’s supposed to be here in 40 minutes, but it’s L.A., no one is ever on time, it’s anyone’s guess.”

“Well,” he licked his lips and cleared his throat before continuing to speak, “then you have plenty of time to finish decorating once we’re finished.”

“Nuh uh, I need to help get Camila ready too, pre-wedding jitters. You’ll understand someday,” she leaned her face in closer to his before whispering, “that poor woman.”

“You wound me, Julie, you really do. But alas, a woman’s job is never done,” he stopped moving and let go of her hands, “I’ll finish up here, make her feel real pretty.” He smiled, she quickly ducked down and scooped up the mass of foil and handed it to him, before scurrying inside.

–

INTERVIEWER: What can you tell me about that night?

EDDIE ROUNDTREE: [Smiles]

JULIET OPAL: Oh, I don’t know. What’s the maturity rating on this?

–

“Smile for me,” Warren teased, positioning himself for the perfect shot of Camila and Billy, “I need a nice big smile, Billy, knock off the frown, it’s the happiest day of your life!”

“Your lens cap is on!” Camila leaned forward, pulling it off and tossing it to Juliet, who caught it with one hand and handed it to Warren, who stuffed it inside of his pocket and immediately returned to trying to get the couple to pose.

–

WARREN ROJAS: Mescaline is a powerful drug.

–

Juliet laughed as she watched the numerous failed attempts at photographing the wedding and muttered something about how maybe Warren should stick to music, before she was tapped on the shoulder. She turned around and was greeted with Eddie smiling at her, his hand extended towards her.

“May I have this dance?” He smirked, raising one eyebrow at her.

“Oh, of course,” she took his hand, tilting her head to the side and smiling, “if not all of your practice will have been for nothing.”

He pulled her away and the two of them found a position only a few dozen feet away from the rest of the group, who was still struggling to take photos. They danced, her head resting on his right shoulder and his hands around her waist, before one of them got the courage to break the comfortable silence.

“I can’t believe they’re gonna be parents,” she marveled, “I still feel like I’m new here and my biggest concern is trying to make him like me. When did we stop being little asshole kids who bummed garages off our parents for practicing space?”

“I’d like to think when we left Pittsburgh, but I think we still are,” she laughed, leaning her head into him.

“Do you think you’ll ever be like that?” He raised an eyebrow at her, “I mean like, ready to settle down? If we get to where we want to be, if we’re as big as we came out here hoping to be, is it even in the cards for us?”

“I think it’ll be tricky, but it always is, whether you’re leaving for a 30 city tour the morning after you get married, or if you just don’t know if you can do it with the kid staying in one piece.”

“I guess so,” she got quiet, swaying to the humming of the music until Eddie eventually decided it was time to rejoin everyone else.

The next morning, Juliet loaded her bag into the van, crawling into the passenger seat next to Eddie behind the wheel. After finalizing her spot, she climbed out and walked over to Camila, throwing her arms around her and leaning into her ear.

“Don’t be a stranger,” she looked at the tears welling up in her eyes before continuing to speak, “I’ll watch out for him for you. Call me if you need anything, I’m serious. I’ll drive back to California from Boston to bring you orange juice if you run out, I’m here.”

Camila hugged her back and Juliet shielded her from the group as she wiped the tears from her eyes, then she climbed back into the van, a stoic expression taking over her face. Eddie noticed and placed his hand over hers on the console, bringing her attention to his face. He nodded and gave her a weak lipped smile. As the group piled into the car, the energy lightened and Eddie let out a “alright, let’s get out of here,” before pulling onto the road.

–

JULIET OPAL: And then we were off.

[birgittesilverbae]

teaser: a day of clouds and darkness

a the martian au

//

"Commander, she's gone," Lilith says.

"I can't leave her!" Beatrice ducks her head against the blowing wind, keeps pushing onwards in the direction of the Hab, sweeping her feet wide as she goes. She can't give up on her, she won't give up on her–

"Bea, you need to–" Camila starts.

"She'd look for us!"

Mary's voice breaks through. "Beatrice, if the MAV goes over, we're all fucked."

"Commander," Yasmine chimes in, "you need to get to the ship."

"Negative. I will not leave a man behind."

"Beatrice," Mary snaps, "I'm a fucking fantastic pilot, but if you're not aboard in the next two minutes, I'm not gonna be able to save us."

"She's gone, Bea," Lilith adds, more softly than Beatrice has ever heard her speak. "Ava's gone." 

Beatrice clears her throat. "Villaumbrosia, I'm transferring command of the Ares 3 mission over to you, effective immediately."

"Commander–"

"Protect your crew, Commander. Zhang out." Beatrice chins her comms channel closed, steels her spine, and keeps moving forward.

//

Beatrice is restless as she waits for the storm to die down. She circles the Hab, tidies up the detritus left behind in the wake of the mass exodus, stores away equipment, wipes down surfaces. The wind whistles across the Hab canvas, an eerie sound, mournful and wailing, and Beatrice tries desperately to focus on that, on cataloguing the last batch of soil samples they'd brought in earlier, on tallying up the food stores, on anything but what the next task will be once the planet grows silent.

She fails. Image after image of Ava's body flashes through her mind as she flips through the food packets. Face shield shattered, cheeks frosted over. Gash torn across the front of her suit, blood spilling out just as vibrant as the regolith, crystallising into ice pellets in an instant. At the base of the MAV platform, so near to safety, scorched by the engine burn of the MAV's ascent. 

The clunk doesn't register immediately. She jots down her tally of egg packets, then goes still, thoughts screeching to a halt, as the airlock's atmospheric regulator cycles into action.

A clunk. The airlock cycling.

A clunk. 

The airlock cycling.

Beatrice's heart climbs into her throat. She sprints across the Hab, presses herself against the door, shields her eyes with her hand as she peers through the porthole.

Nothing. No one. No Ava. Just the hum of the airlock equalising. A crossed wire, maybe. Some interference from the storm. Beatrice slumps forwards against the airlock, her breath shaky in her throat, and swallows down a sob.

She rests there until her breathing steadies, until she thinks maybe she can stand on her own. She pushes herself back fully upright, scans the Hab, trying to form a plan of attack, to lay out next steps.

The airlock cycles open behind her. 

She digs her fingernails into her palms and takes a deep breath. A crossed wire, maybe. Some interference from the storm.

But then there's a rustle of fabric. The thud of hard plastic against metal. A raspy inhalation. A groan.

Beatrice turns degree by slow, agonising degree.

A suited figure lies slumped halfway through the inner airlock. An arm reaches up, fumbles at seals, pries their helmet free.

Ava tips her head back, groaning at the motion, and gives Beatrice a crooked upside-down grin. 

"Hey, Bea. What's a nice girl like you doing in a place like this?"

[thatiranianphantom]

They really don’t have time. I’ve listened to the team that puts the music together talk about the process. If you really want to know the obstacles they have to overcome, the amount of songs, and the last minute changes, and scheduling conflicts they have to deal with, listen to Riverdale After Dark’s podcast episode with the people that do the music for the show. It’s not easy to do what they do with the time and money and talent they have. That’s my only point. I know you like to shit on them for it. So I want bother you with it any further but some perspective doesn’t hurt.

Look anon, I am being completely genuine when I say I appreciate your quite calm and friendly tone. It's nice to have an anon that doesn't smugly yell at me.

But two things: one, it is absolutely not required to do a musical episode, and most fans hate it, so even if it is a lot of work, it's really not work for a good cause. The actors don't even like doing them, I'd wager. And if they truly don't have the time or the money for it, to desecrate a musical anyway is more maddening than anything else.

And two, again, the songs and the music are absolutely terribly done. I don't know what their audio engineers' specialties are, truly I don't, but the songs are mixed absolutely horribly. It is not that much extra effort to change the key to fit the singers' voices, but absolutely nothing is changed. It is not advisable to absolutely deep fry their songs in autotune. There are some (ahemMadsVanessaColeahem) where you can scarcely distinguish real voice from machine because it is SO autotuned. Like, every single note. I get that this is likely a directorial choice but the songs are not necessary at ALL. They don't move the plot forward, they don't help the character express something that they couldn't otherwise, they don't represent an emotional turning point, they just....exist pointlessly, to be terribly sung. I was cringing for Camila on Origin of Love, straining so hard to reach those high notes.

Again, you liking the episodes is valid, anon. I am not here to hate on someone's personal opinion, you're allowed to feel that. I'm saying if we are saying the episodes are impressively done musically, that's more of a matter of fact, and they are....not.

[the-firebird69]

A lot of people sat around saying stuff like Ken saying it and say again and point it out and these people sat around running around grabbing people saying they're using what he's doing we don't want to rub it in but you doing this annoying s*** you guys were doing he is very pissed off since if you're not doing anything shut up and we are killing tons of them back then and your people you're the stupid talk you're doing now so they get encouraged and you don't realize it

Thor Freya

What am I supposed to do

Ken

Well usually I'd say don't do anything cuz you're too fat and lazy but right here it says bourbon whiskey turns me into a superhero. And the deal is you can't see it or figure it out and so on so see Camila loses as a hypothetical cuz she might dildo baggins takes over which is cheeseman from within and has this moron absolute moron Dave as a vice president so he's trying to get rid of him eventually kills Tommy F kills cheese man and the VP and a new VP comes in or is retains the old one who cares the point is that during that period of time you become Ulysses as Chris he kills his father has and they have a problem and you move up and become president I assume that that time you be Secretary of State because they've been around saying you're our secretary laughing like little retarded kids

Zues Hera

Sounds like a plan my man and I get this too it was disgusting it still is and I'm saying it but not in that essence but I get what you're saying they're still charged up by and we weren't to the shop and hear people were and it's not like you can jump out and tell us here you're the ones who do competent engineering and assessments why don't we give me a break. Some people were saying stuff and slowing down and we heard you telling us we understand what you're saying this Max can do it and they have a bunch of them more than we have and roughly the same level but they were a bunch of ones that are higher up and then they exist so I do take it like it is they have comporable teams just very bigger. We have to go into this knowing what we're doing and it looks like we're a lot of trouble and we really are and I'm going to go into this good afternoon and he's going to be dead no one can stand you you idiot Trump you're a freaking moron the newest adventure is to say words you don't know what the meaning is you sound like an imbecile because you are one and you look like one cuz you are one and we need you out here cuz the reason is because of the empire now all your stuff's going to be gone nuclear weapons your weaponry stashes and cashes gone and in our possession and we're going to clear you out of there and this is the future that he's describing he thinks the election will be going on and it will continue that way until they're big changes

Ken

Olympus

[konggodzuko]

Augh, totally forgot to do this until I saw Cilla's.

Nickname: Abuelo (shout outs to CAZ server)

Sign: Cancer sun, Aquarius moon, Libra rising

Height: I think like 5' 8"/5' 9"

Last thing I googled: Lord of the Rings wiki (I wanted to re-read the article about the mumakil, the giant elephants)

Song stuck in my head: Con la Brisa, from Wakanda Forever

Followers: 238

Amount of sleep: just short of 8 hours

Lucky number: IDK, 5?

What I'm wearing: jeans and a black sweater

Dream job: published writer.

Movies/books that summarize me: Godzilla vs. Monster Zero, Aliens, Atlantis: The Lost Empire, Percy Jackson, Fifth Sun: A New History of the Aztecs, War Against All Puerto Ricans

Favorite Song: Impossible to choose. Uhh, let's say "Lovesong" by the Cure

Favorite Instrument: Guitar. I used to be able to play decently well.

Aesthetic: is "anti-colonialist book and sci-fi movie nerd" an aesthetic??

Favorite book: also impossible to choose, but I'll recommend Fifth Sun: A New History of the Aztecs by Camila Townsend (very literally a history of the Aztecs, but relying on as many indigenous sources as possible) and Leviathan by Scott Westerfield (WWI but the Allies have genetically engineered animals and the Central Powers have mechas).

Random fact: I recently found out that one of my mom's friends was good friends with Hilary Clinton of all people.

17 Questions, 17 People

thank you for tagging me, my beloved ella <33 @stars-and-darkness

Nickname: well it would doxx my real name, but my name has been shortened in practically ever possible permutation and combination lmfao. ana is my favourite tho <3

Sign: cancer sun, virgo moon, gemini rising! 

Height: 159cm last time i checked. god i hope i haven’t shrunk, that would be embarrassing

Last thing I googled: the member portal for the bubble tea shop near my house because they had a member’s deal (i got a milk tea for 1.90 so i am very pleased)

Song stuck in my head: would’ve, could’ve, should’ve by taylor swift. yeah i’m doing alright, why do you ask? 

Followers: 475

Amount of sleep: currently running on a spicy 6.5 hours

Lucky number: 4! 

Dream job: i would love to be a published writer tbh

What I’m wearing: currently in a grey t-shirt and white sweatpants with stars on them

Movies/books that summarize me: little women (2019), kung fu panda, mulan, jurassic park and harry potter. make of that what you will. 

Favourite song: probably a taylor swift song, but i absolutely cannot pick one. wildest dreams, anti-hero, and willow are strong contenders though

Favourite instument: violin! i always wish i’d learned to play but i got piano instead lmao (still like piano tho)

Aesthetic: i wish i had an aesthetic but i literally just wear whatever is comfortable to me at any time. so casual/comfy i guess? 

Favourite book: how am i supposed to answer this. i refuse

Random fact: i share a birthday with the current dalai lama whoop

tagging @tiny-katara <3, @kaligraphy @night-heron-writes @azmonic @termaitz @drakonic @muddied-waters @konggodzuko @susiesundrop @hneyteacup @indigostars @homeagainrose @wevemadeitthisfar @ryu-slayer @wingchunwaterbender @theotterpenguin @night-owlery64

[madefate-a]

drags this out of my drafts for a VERY important day ! 

camila, three edibles in and sprawled out on the living room floor. i’m just angry. it just doesn’t make sense, do they not understand ?? facts ?? don’t they get how physically and fiscally impossible it would be to fake the moon landing ?? i pretend i don’t care but it hurts, it hurts to watch someone just !! not listen to facts !! 

shiro, who never partakes but who’s been up for 72 hours straight so it’s basically the same thing. you can’t fight the cadets though. ... maybe you can take them on a field trip to the moon. 

camila. 

[knockknockknockingonhootysdoor]

biiiiig huntlow dump because i had a moment!!! i just!! think they're neat!!! that first photo is half a conversation bc i'm not very good at dialogue. the rest is just silly doodles to make up for the angst,,, of course captions are underneath!

Page 1

Willow: It was really hard to see you lie so still, I'll admit that. But your pain is what's most important here, Hunter. I want to be here for you, if you'll let me. Hunter: ... Willow: I know its not a consolation to you and I'm being so selfish right now, but I'm so glad you're alive, Hunter. I'm so so glad. Willow: I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. -Sob- Hunter: B-but I don't d-deserv- Willow: Don't. You do. You absolutely do.

Page 2

(Pointing to Hunter) Trying horned-rimmed glasses

Willow: You know, there's that Cosmic Frontier movie in theaters! You wanna go to a showing? Hunter: Yeah! Sounds great! <3

-- Cheese! -- Willow: C'mon! Let's go check it out! Hunter: It says no trespassing! Willow: A quick look won't hurt! -- (Pointing to Willow) Carrying him over puddles :)

Willow: You good? Hunter: Haha yeah! --

Willow: THANK YOU HUNTER! I missed aloe juice since we came back home! I really appreciate you going back to Camila's to get me some! Hunter: Ha ha it's no trouble! Willow: THANK YOU! (Squeaky toy noise) Hunter: Oh! Haha! Wow! Yippee!!

Page 3

(Pointing to Hunter) Addicted to sweets and treats (Pointing to Mote) Mote :) (Pointing to Willow) Holds said treats for him.

Willow: Oh! The Bonesborough Brawlers won 5 to 3! Amity: Why... why didn't she make him change... Gus: Let him live Amity. Luz: Look! Claire's is this way! Matt: I thought we were going to Hot Topic?! -- Willow: Oh! Hunter's here! Willow: (Loudly) HIIIII HUNTER!! Omg this is a library Willow

Willow Vision: Pointing to all of the hearts surrounding Willows view of Hunter; he is poked by an arrow labelled "Easily embarrassed"

Willow: (Whispering) Sorry! Hiiiii Hunter! Luz: omg You have it so bad. C'mon or we'll be late to class! Hee hee You can stare at him later!

Page 4

Oh how time flies...

Willow: Oh! Is that your fursona? Looks cool! Hunter: ... I have feelings for you. --

Very small doodles of Lumity, Gustholomule, and Huntlow

Willow: Wait for us!!

Page 5

A more canonical moment of stress

Hunter: And so Chief Engineer O'Bailey went to Captain Avery and demanded for him to beam him back to the planet to save the blah blah blah blah Wow! Sounds crazy! Hunter: Do you want to watch the episode with me after school? Willow: Sure! <3

--

Darius: You staying for dinner, Park? Willow: If that's okay! Hunter: Yeah! We can watch the latest episode after!

Willow: Thanks for having me! Hunter: ♡ O-Oh! No problem! ♡

SIIIIIIGH ♡♡♡

Darius: Time to do your homework, Romeo. You'll see her tomorrow.

[apocalypseornaw]

Real or Not (Pt 5/5)

Dean Winchester x Reader

Dean makes it to Donna's

Always a pleasure "working" with @lacilou

Donna had met you at the door, waving at Claire as she backed out of the driveway. You half expected her to ask but instead she smiled "Ya know where the guestroom is and guest bathroom. Why don't ya go get a shower and change into more comfy clothes then we can talk or not whichever" you instantly pulled her into a hug trying very hard not to cry. She held you for a few moments, rubbing your back soothingly then leaned back to smile at you again "Want tea or coffee waiting?" "Tea please"

You, the boys and Jody's girl all kept extra clothes at Donna's. She was a safe place to crash. Once you were out of the shower and dressed you stared at yourself in the mirror, immediately regretting not paying better attention when you grabbed clothes. You'd gotten a pair of your sleep shorts out but the shirt you'd grabbed was an old henley of Dean's.

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

You ignored the ache in your chest as you brushed your hair out then headed out the bathroom. You padded softly down the hall enjoying the feeling of the cool hardwood floor under your feet.

When you made it to the kitchen Donna was standing with her back to you, you saw she had her phone to her ear and started to step out to give her more privacy until you heard your name. The bits you caught were "Jody's gonna flip" "You shouldn't have went back Claire" "Yeah I know" "I know how two faced Camila is" "I don't think Y/N is gonna believe me though. I could strangle Dean"

You cleared your throat and had to stifle the urge to laugh when she spun around wide eyed looking very much like a kid with their hand caught in the cookie jar "Claire sweetie I gotta go. Give Jods my love and call me when ya get home"

You raised an eyebrow at her phone as she sat it down "What was that about?" She shrugged but when you crossed your arms she let out a sigh "Claire had a talk with Camila" "A talk?" You asked skeptically and she flinched "She might have gave her a black eye, broke her phone and told her if she came within fifty feet of you she'd get worse that than"

You felt your heart warm at Claire's protectiveness but felt the need to say "While I appreciate Claire wanting to defend me she doesn't need to risk getting in trouble. That bitch isn't worth it" Donna nodded slowly and held out a steaming mug. When you took it you realized she was still staring at you "What else Donna?"

She shrugged "Camila told Claire she lied about a lot, like the ring thing" you shook your head "Even if Dean wasn't looking at rings, he was willing to quit hunting.... Donna he still hadn't even told me he loves me. How many signs do I have to let slap me in the face before I accept I'm not the one for him no matter how much it rips my heart out or how much I love him"

She opened her mouth as if to say something but you quickly forced a yawn "I'm gonna take my tea to the guestroom so I can lie down if that's ok" she nodded "Of course. Holler if ya need anything" you gave her a small smile before nearly running to the guestroom, shutting the door behind yourself.

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

You sat the tea on the dresser before sitting on the bed. What were you supposed to do now? The bunker had been your home for quite some time before you and Dean ever shared a bed. Maybe the twins wanted a third for hunting? Or you could go with Claire some?

You eventually laid across the bed, hoping sleep would pull you under.

Dean parked next to Donna's truck feeling his heart skip around in his chest. He cut his eyes at Sam as he killed the engine "What do I say to get her to listen to me?" Sam shrugged one shoulder "Honestly?"

Dean felt his jaw clench as he said "Yeah honestly. I'm trying to fight for the woman I love her and this is new territory to me Sammy" a small smile slipped onto Sam's face "Don't gameplan man. Just talk to her, stutter and stammer if you have to. Just try to tell her how you feel and make her see you mean it"

He nodded slowly before climbing out of the impala, hearing Sam get out behind him. Before they made it all the way onto the porch the front door swung open and there stood Donna looking very pissed. "DEAN WINCHESTER! WHAT DID YOU DO?"

He flinched at her tone and held his hands in front of him defensively "I promise you my own crime is being stupid enough to think Camila had changed any. Anything she told Y/N was a lie. Please let me talk to her Donna" she looked from him to Sam before nodding "Ok, Sam ya wanna ride into town we me? The dinner has decent enough food"

Sam nodded "Sure" Donna leaned in to grab her coat before looking back at Dean "She's in the guestroom. Don't make me regret this Dean" Sam patted Dean's shoulder reassuringly before following Donna off the porch.

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

Dean stepped inside and stopped. What if you didn't want to see him? What if you didn't believe him? What if you really were through?

He wanted to give into those self depreciating thoughts he had his entire life but your face popped into his mind. The smile you'd have when you would wake up next to him, how you'd wrap your arms around him and kiss between his shoulders while he cooked. The way you'd patch him up after a hunt or sit watching his every movement with tired eyes as he patched you up.

Every moment of your relationship and even before flashed through his mind. It was worth the risk. He knew for him that you were it, he just hoped you felt the same.

-----------

He walked to the guestroom and knocked twice. After a moment he heard your sleep ridden voice "Come in Donna" he hesitated, should he tell you it was him? After a moment he pushed the door open "Hey sweetheart"

You shot up in bed and stared at Dean for a long moment. Your first urge was to run to him or even cry but you bit both those down to let venom slip into your tone as best as you could "Where's Camila?"

He shrugged "Don't know. I came here to talk to you" you stood off the bed smoothing a hand over your hair as you did so. You refused to be sitting while he stood. You needed halfway equal footing.

"Why? To tell me yourself I never measured up to her? To tell me you would've quit hunting for her? Or or or did ya come to tell me stories about her like I heard you and Sam reminiscing about WEEKS AGO!" You hadn't realized the anger that was simmering under your pain but once you started talking it refused to not be fed.

You tool a step towards him "When would I have been enough Dean? I was friends with you and Sam for so long before we ever started getting closer. You had every chance to not yet you took me into your bed. You touched me, you kissed me, you made me feel wanted like you actually cared but all the while I was falling in love with you were you still hung up on her?"

"No" he answered it so matter of factly it pissed you off further. Your teeth clenched hard as you said "Then why don't you love me? Why don't you feel about me how I feel about? WHAT DOES SHE HAVE THAT I DON'T?"

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

You felt angry tears slip down your face half a second before Dean was pulling you into his arms. You struggled, trying to break out of his embrace but knew he was stronger than you and your traitorous heart and body wanted nothing more than to melt into him. "Why don't you love me?" You half whispered half sobbed into his chest.

"I do love you" he spoke quietly. You pulled back from him to look up into his eyes "Don't say it to save my feelings" he gave you a smile that wasn't his usual flirtatious one but was genuine nonetheless "I'm not baby please can I talk now?" You nodded so walked the two of you over to the bed and sat down scooting back against the headboard pulling you onto his lap as he went and you let him.

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

Once you were straddling him with your head resting in the bend of his neck he started to rub circles onto your back as he spoke "She lied about me wanting to quit hunting. She lied about a lot, that's all she ever did. When me and Sam were talking about her it was because he was giving me hell for not trying to get you sooner because he was comparing how much better of a hunter, cook and woman you are and I was agreeing. I have loved you for a while now but sweetheart this is new to me, I've ran from any feelings my entire life. I've ran from the possibility of opening myself up to being hurt but you? You could rip my heart out right now and I'll use my last breath to tell you I love you"

You leaned up to look into his eyes "I've felt so out of place since I heard you two talking about her. I wanted to trust in us, not just a lovers but as friends. Dean I've never dreamt of feeling how I feel about you. I love you" you pressed a gentle kiss to his lips and he sighed lightly into your mouth, a sound of contentment. When you pulled away he smiled again "I love you Y/N. A future for me? It's you. No matter what else may come my future is you"

You smiled again, feeling tears brimming in your eyes "Shut up and kiss me like you love me Winchester" He grinned at your words "Oh I definitely can do that"

@lacilou @saranghaey @stoneyggirl2 @marimarvelfan @roseblue373 @suckitands33 @backtotheshitshow @jackles010378 @leigh70 @diagnosedpsychosis @badassbitch-21 @geekwritersworld

[hopelessromantic727]

Calum Hood- Consequences

Author's Note: This imagine was inspired by Camila Cabello's song "Consequences"

Word Count: 1458

Pairing: Calum Hood x Reader

Warnings: None

Genre: Angst

- - - - -

He has never felt this way before. He’s never felt so much hurt in his heart. His desire to not leave his home was strong at this time of heartache. His phone was long dead. He didn't bother getting up to charge it. The phone was the only connection he had to the outside world, something Calum didn't want to know about.

"Loving her was dumb..." he thought for the millionth time that day.

He felt a few tears slide down his cheeks, not bothering to wipe them when there was plenty more to come. His mind, once again, playing flashbacks of their times together. When everything was sunshine until it poured.

He remembered the first time they both said, "I love you." Both of them sixteen, saying it because it felt right, and they knew that what they had was true love. They thought their love would last forever, but things didn’t go as planned.

His mind went back to a day he remembers too well. How couldn't he? It was the day he knew what real heartbreak was.

He remembers the makeup running down her face as she cried. He had quickly thought of ways to make her smile, anything to stop her crying and see her happy, but before he could try, he saw that the promise ring he had given her on her nineteenth birthday was no longer on her ring finger, instead, it was in her pocket, ready to be given back to him.

Calum started sobbing, recalling what she had told him that day.

“I’m sorry Calum, but I don’t think we should be together anymore.” She said, turning to look at him, getting teary-eyed.

“W-what do you mean?” He asked, looking at her confused, “do you not love me anymore?”

“Of course I do Cal, it’s just,” she looked away, shaking her head, “I think it’s better if we go our separate ways...” she said after a moment.

Calum stood there dumbfounded, not knowing what to say. Sensing his confusion, she stepped closer to him and grabbed his hand.

“Listen, Cal,” she paused for a moment, “I think you’re better off without me.”

Calum started shaking his head, opening his mouth to speak, but Y/N beat him to it. “Listen to me please,” she said, cupping his jaw making him look at her. She saw him tearing up, “it’s for the better love,” she said, smiling softly at him. She leaned her forehead against his, both of them closing their eyes.

“Please don’t make this harder than it already is.” She said quietly, tears leaving her eyes. She took out the ring from her back pocket, grabbing his hand and putting the ring in the palm of his hand, closing it. She put her hand on top of his closed one and stepped away from him, heading towards the door.

Calum stood there as he watched the love of his life walk out the door. He heard her car leave his driveway, and he fell to his knees and started crying uncontrollably, staring at the closed door.

Calum sobbed harder at the memory, holding the ring to his chest. He was planning on getting her an actual ring, but those plans got ruined. Her departure felt recent even though it’s already been a month and a half since she left him. She had managed to leave an imprint on his heart.

Her smile and laugh haunted his mind, everything about her did. He thought only good things about her because that’s how Y/N was, good. Too good for him. He remembers the night he had confessed his feelings of insecurity to her.

They were both laying in each other’s arms in his bed, enjoying each other’s presence.

“I have to tell you something,” Calum mumbled into her hair, laying his chin on top of her head.

She hummed in response, letting him know she was listening.

“You’re too good for me… and I… I’m afraid that once you realize that, you’ll leave me for someone who does deserve you.” He said, holding back tears as his voice broke towards the end of his confession.

She looked up at him, placing her hand on his cheek, “I’ll never leave you, Cal. I love you, and I want you. Only you.”

He smiled at her, leaning down to kiss her, feeling nothing but contentment.

Ever since then, she would always reassure him that he did deserve her.

He put his arm over his eyes as he kept remembering the times he spent with her.

The way she would annoy him by playing “Heartbreak Girl” and singing it loudly as he playfully rolled his eyes at her, secretly loving it.

The way she furrowed her eyebrows when she was reading, concentrating on the words printed on the page.

The way she smiled at him and laughed at the stupid jokes he made.

And most importantly, he remembered the way she looked at him, her eyes full of love and adoration for the man standing in front of her. Her eyes always had a special spark in them that was there just for him. He always felt butterflies when she looked at him like that.

He knew that she was the love of his life.

He never believed in soulmates, but that changed when he met her. He knew that because of the love they had, how much she loved him, and how much he loved her.

Loving her was everything he’s ever wanted and dreamed of; wild, free, cool, and sweet. Full of sunshine and happiness. A safe place for him. A place he could let his guard and defenses down. A place where he could be vulnerable and not be afraid to be judged for it. She had encouraged him, telling him that he was safe with her, and ever since, he would go to her when life was taking a toll on him.

He swore he had never felt that much love before, and right now, he swore that he has never felt this much pain before.

* * * * * * * * *

A few hours went by as Calum’s crying got softer and quieter until it stopped. After a few moments, Calum decided to get up. Going to the bathroom, he saw his reflection in the mirror. His eyes bloodshot, and his cheeks flushed with stained tears. He turned away from the mirror, not wanting to look at the mess he was.

He slid the shower glass door and turned on the water. He got undressed as he waited for the water to get warm. After 45 minutes of showering, he turned off the water and slid the door open. He stepped out of the shower, and reached for a towel, drying himself. Going into his room, he went to his closet and started grabbing clothes to wear.

As he was getting dressed, he decided that it was time to move on. There was nothing to gain by just slouching around with a broken heart. He had to work, keep himself busy, anything to not let his mind wander back to her.

He grabbed his phone from the floor and plugged in his charger, setting his phone on the nightstand. As he waited for it to charge, he started cleaning his room.

He went to the laundry room, getting a basket to put his dirty clothes in and a trash bag. Once he returned to his room, he started picking up all his dirty clothes and empty bottles of alcohol off the ground.

Twenty minutes passed by, and he grabbed his phone, turning it on. He saw all his messages, missed calls, and voicemails from his bandmates and family members. He slid his thumb across the screen repeatedly, erasing all his notifications.

He sent a message to the band’s group chat, letting them know that he was coming to the studio today to join them. He unplugged his phone from the charger when he noticed that it was at 60%. He checked the time, 6:08pm.

He walked out of his room and walked downstairs, heading towards the door. He grabbed his green empathy hoodie and opened the door. He closed it and walked towards his car while putting his hoodie on. He got in his car and put his keys in the engine, turning them to the side, starting the car. He started driving towards the studio. As he was driving, Calum made a promise to himself. One that he would keep for two years without fail.

"I'm never gonna fall in love again..."

~~~~~~~

Thank you for reading this, let me know what you think of my first imagine :') <3

[bisluthq]

Wanky lyrics anon here,

No lyrics interpretation here, but I saw conversation about TPAB, 1989, and Taylor's influence and wanted to contribute. (Sorry for the long ask haha)

I'm in the probably not very controversial group, but maybe among swifties, that TPAB definitely deserved to win AOTY, and saw someone say that's not the case as they don't think Kendrick is very influential. My opinion here is that the influence in the case of TPAB doesn't matter, as TPAB is basically "The History of Black Music: The Album" but giving it a modern twist. Which is basically what Daft Punk did with Random Access Memories, which was basically "The History of Dance Music: The Album." And both artists featured legends of their respective genres to pay tribute to that history: George Clinton and Ronald Isley on TPAB, and Georgio Morodor and Nile Rogers on RAM. Both albums have had little influence on how modern music sounds, but the serve as masterclasses of genre, engineering, and how to construct on album. Which is what is supposed to matter with the awards: how good is the end product.

As for Taylors influence, my controversial take, is that musically, Taylor hasn't really been that influential on pop music. I can hear her influence in country, though I don't know how much of that is just country music being country music, but I hear a lot of old Taylor in a bunch of up and coming female country singers.

There are people like Camila, Shawn, and Halsey who say how Taylor influences them, but I don't hear it in their songs. Though I do in Olivia Rodrigo, so the tides may be changing in that regard.

Taylors influence lies in the meta of the music industry. She made it cool to be a Singer-songwriter, she's the reason all artists suddenly started showing off their writing credits. The whole thing about artists being "authentic" seems from her. This is what makes it difficult to point at an album like 1989 and say it deserves whatever and that's its influential (I'd argue against 1989 being influential, but that's more because I don't like it haha), because with Taylor it's never really been important WHAT she makes, it's the fact that SHE'S the one making it, and how SHE'S grown/switched genres that's considered a big deal. Which is why I think Folklore will win AOTY, as I see it kind of like a TPAB/RAM of alternative/folk/country type music... kind of-ish.

Taylors closest comparisons for meta influence are Kany and Drake.

Kanye, because he was the one that made it cool to be the rapper that produces his own songs. Every rapper wanted to be a producer/have production credits after Kanye came on the scene. Before him, the only producer rapper that I can think of was RZA, and he wasn't even the most famous out of Wu-Tang. Still the popularity in the group went to pure rappers Method Man and Raekwon. Musically, the moody 808 emo rap stuff came from Kid Cudi. He was a major influence of 808's and Heartbreaks, and it's this sound that rappers still copy. Kanye's style was flipping old soul samples which no one really does anymore.

And the Drake comparison, because both Taylor and he have massively influenced the business side of the music business, though in different way. Drake has optimised his music for making money in the streaming age. His newer stuff having long tracklists, but short run times meaning it can be streamed more times a day than if the songs were longer is having a massive knock on affect. Ariana's newest album for example only having 4 out of 14 songs being longer that 3 minutes shows this trend (tiktok plays a role here too). They exploit the system that is in place to make as much money as they can and people copy them, whereas Taylor tries to change the system that's in place via her deals with Spotify, Apple music, her record label for example to try and alter how much people get paid. (Which I find kind of funny given the conversations here around her supporting Kamala etc. Haha)

But yeah, rambley take that I'm sure I've maybe got something wrong in here, but yeah :)

Wanky anon you’re genuinely one of a very small circle of men I genuinely like because even when I don’t agree with you - I don’t really disagree on this take but I have before - I’ve been like “ya I hear it”

[birgittesilverbae]

Ava x Lilith "picnic person" from the date prompts!

"I never pegged you as a picnic person," Ava says thoughtfully. "It's a nice surprise."

"I contain multitudes." Lilith hooks the picnic basket over her elbow and grabs the tote bag. "Don't," she cautions, a bit belatedly, having turned and caught a troublemaker's glint in Ava's eye, "or we're going to have a chat about your use of 'pegged' just now."

"It'd be remiss of you to ignore that." Ava settles her Tilley hat more firmly on her head and fixes Lilith in place with a broad grin.

"For Christ's sake, Ava, I'm trying to be nice and–" Lilith stamps her foot, then realises abruptly what she's done. Heat pools in her cheeks.

"Sorry, sorry, I'll lay off you. For a bit."

"I suppose that's the most I could reasonably hope for."

They cross the park at a leisurely pace. The late spring breeze adds just a touch of chill to the air, which Lilith takes as a reminder to double-check that there are two rolled blankets tucked in her tote bag. The motion makes the bag swing into the side of Ava's chair, and Ava directs a swat at Lilith's thigh in the middle of the recovery phase of her push.

"Apologies," Lilith says absently, still digging through the tote. She's sure she'd put the water bottles in there, but–

"Lil, babe, chill. Please. I'm getting exhausted just looking at you."

"Camila said that if I want you to be a part of my life then I should make an honest attempt to get to know you better."

Ava hums thoughtfully. "As opposed to fingering me the moment either of us reveals anything personal, I'm guessing?"

Lilith's silence is answer enough on its own.

"Is that what you want?"

"Do I want to finger you…?"

Ava smacks at Lilith's leg again. "Lilith. Do you want me to be a part of your life?"

"I do," Lilith admits after a long moment, her voice strained, the stain of her cheeks quickly approaching fire engine red. And then she strides ahead with a purpose, veering up a side path to the left and leaving Ava in her wake. 

Ava slows, comes to a halt, and watches Lilith go. A grin tugs at the corners of her mouth at Lilith's admission, though, and she pops a few celebratory wheelies before meandering along after her.