#chapter title is I See You by Phoebe Bridgers!

[xxnashiraxx]

With Stars to Fill My Dream (10) - Let the Dystopian Morning Light Pour In

EVERYBODY!!! 🖤🖤 We've made it to Chapter 10!! I am so happy we've gotten this far! I don't think I've ever made it this far with my writing, and I'm really proud of myself and my perseverance- I care so much about this story and its characters, and I have so much more material written with no end to my inspiration and motivation in sight! I hope this train keeps rolling full steam ahead because I've made so many friends on this journey and I wouldn't be here without them! 🖤🖤

Anyway, I'll quit my yapping so you can enjoy the chapter! Please see some bonus screenshots below!

(P.S. The screenshots are meant to be enjoyed from afar because my editing stuff is not so good. 🖤🖤)

Summary: A street-smart, musically inclined human girl with a tragic past gets abducted by a nautiloid after her painfully average shift at a retro singing diner. What's worse- putting your all into Olivia Newton-John and Travolta for lousy tips, or getting your guts ripped out by a gnoll? Or worse- getting turned into a hideous humanoid squid? Ofelia Montez will have to see if she can survive long enough to find out.

Pairing: Astarion x female!Tav

Warnings: 18+. Mentions of past abuse and trauma. Canon-typical violence and gore.

Word Count: 9,053

Opening under the cut!

Their group scatters to the winds to check out stalls and mill about as Ofelia and Alfira discuss a few lessons she can learn right away. Wyll and Lae’zel join Karlach and they descend to the blacksmith’s area, Astarion hangs off to the side, not quite in the circle with the two bards but not a part of it. Gale and Shadowheart head off to the apothecary and general goods vendor for potion ingredients and food supplies and in the meantime, Ofelia learns. She learns until her fingers hurt from overuse and twilight begins to overtake the evening sky. The ache is a pleasant reminder that she’s nailed a few spells, her delight overshadowing any exhaustion.

“Can I try one on you?” Ofelia attempts an icebreaker as she walks up beside Astarion, gesturing to her lute. He’s leaning against the weathered rock with his eyes closed, pretending like he hadn’t heard her. If she can free them from whatever rut it is that they’ve been stuck in, she’d like to try.

“I learned Bardic Inspiration, it might be a good idea to practice my skills-”

“Absolutely not.” He mutters sharply, lids still closed. She frowns.

“You’ve been nothing but cold to me all day. I’m sorry about Shadowheart, but whatever this-” She waves her hand in front of him though he can’t see it. “-is, it’s got to stop. The others are starting to notice.” Her voice is like a blade, slicing through his nonchalant demeanor. His eyes snap open and he glares at her- it makes her flinch gently, and it’s clear he notices.

“Let them,” He turns, walking down the ridge and she follows, anger boiling in her blood.

“What’s going on?” She shouts, grateful to be away from her tiefling teacher as he stalks toward the hillside. “What have I done to you? I’m sorry I almost killed you- I didn’t mean to! I couldn’t control it! What happened from when you left me at the river to this morning? What did I do?” She can’t keep the hot rush of emotion from pouring over her words to coat them in betrayal. What happened? They were conversing so easily yesterday- he’d been a bit bristly about her intentions to provide him with her blood, but she thought they’d at least come to an understanding…

“Nothing!” He growls, throwing his pack down on the ground to stake a claim on the dirt he stands upon. “All you do is suffocate me with your kindness- why? Do you like taking pity on a monster? I hate being treated like a charity case.” She freezes, stiff and stung. When she takes a soft step back, he glares at her and she feels herself shrink.

What spurred this on?

If anyone should be considering themselves a monster, it’s her.

[roc-haze]

I have noticed you have a theme with the song titled for chapters… any chance you listen to Lizzy Mcalpine or Phoebe Bridgers? They would be perfect for something angsty

Also pls write for Harry!!

Girl…. I got you.

—

Pushing It Down and Praying | WillNE

Bit angsty. Mentions of reader in an unhappy relationship.

—-

It was just one of those weeks.

Work was shit. Coworkers snapping at each other as the end of financial year rolled around and chaos ensued. Stepping on eggshells around friends as they wrap themselves up in their children, husbands and incredible careers. Your relationship on the brink of ending.

Now here you were, sitting in the shared flat of Arthur Hill, Chris and George. Arthur had decided to throw a small party at their place to celebrate an entirely sold out tour. He’d somehow assembled a motley crew of friends last minute.

George, ever the host, had enlisted you as his guinea pig while he made his way through a “how to: cocktail” book. So far, you’d consumed several attempts at a cosmo and even more so at an espresso martini. George had been keeping a watchful eye after catching you trying to secretly pour a martini into the closest house plant. In doing so, he’d caught the longing glances exchanged between yourself and Will. For the majority of the night, he’d been stood on the opposite side of the room chatting with Simon and Josh.

“Not to sound like a prick Y/N, but where’s Alex?” George pressed. “You guys have been together for what feels like years and he barely makes an appearance. Do you just not invite him?”.

You spun your straw around the mojito George had just slid across the table. “I do invite him. He just prefers to stay at home and relax after work.”

Unbeknownst to you, Talia and Freya had slowly made their way across the room, sensing a sudden shift in the atmosphere between yourself and George.

George pursed his lips. “Do you love him?”.

A sudden warmth spread over your shoulder as Talia squeezed it reassuringly. “Give it a rest, George.. she’s come straight from work. Let her chill before you interrogate her.”

You looked up at Talia. “Thank you.”

“Why don’t we all go sit somewhere and have a gossip?” She suggested, gently pulling you off of the bar stool you had been occupying all night. Talia’s solution was the couch area - which was otherwise empty apart from Bach and Chris taking up residence in the recliners across from you. You sat on the end of the couch, Talia in the middle seat and Freya on the opposite end.

Freya hesitated to voice her thoughts, as though she were trying to tread lightly. “I worry about you, Y/N. I know how tough work is at the moment and I hate thinking that you’re going home feeling unloved.”

You took a breath before responding. “I’ve thought about leaving but it’s not like he’s doing anything to me. He doesn’t yell… or try to scare me. It’s like we just live separate lives comfortably. If I leave, I have to start all over again.”

Talia took your hand in her own. “Just because he keeps you safe doesn’t mean he keeps you happy. You can be comfortable and have someone you’re excited to share it with.”

The girls rationalised for the next 30 minutes, offering their support and solutions. We’ll be there with the moving truck. You don’t have to do it alone.

By this time, Bach and Chris had weighed in, concerned about their friend.

Excusing yourself to the ensuite bathroom in George’s room, Chris followed. As you knelt up against the vanity, he stood in the doorway. “Listen, Y/N. I don’t normally weigh in on your life. I can understand that you keep things under wraps because you don’t want it out there for the world to see. I get that.” He took a breath. “I just think that, when it’s just us, you deserve to have a partner you can brag about. Someone who loves you the way you deserve. There’s a whole group of men in there who’d happily take Alex’s place.”

You laughed in an attempt to dissolve the tension. “You’re full of shit, Chris.”

“Yeah? I’ll send both of the Arthur’s in here to change your mind.” A grin spread across his face, before pulling you into a tight embrace. One of those truly tear inducing hugs. An ‘I’ve got you’ hug. “I’m gonna give you a minute. Seems like you might need a break from all the emotions.”

“Thanks, Chris. Love ya.” You blew a kiss at him as he left the room, making a catching motion on the way out.

You’d been alone in the ensuite for all of 5 seconds when Will’s head poked around the corner.

“Hello, my friend.” He grinned cheekily, standing against the door.

“You look like you’re up to no good.” You had laughed, the grin painting his face looking a little too mischievous.

He pulled a bottle of red wine out from behind his back, presenting it to you. “Might be a silly idea, but why don’t we just sit in the bath, chat shit and drink this expensive wine I copped from Mr Calfreezy?”.

In response, you took your shoes off and jumped into the empty bath, extending a hand to Will.

Once you were safely in your respective ends of the bath, knees touching, he unscrewed the cap and extended the wine bottle to you. “You’ve had a tough week. You go first.”

Taking a sip (or a gulp for that matter), you passed the bottle back. “What’s happening in your world this week, Mr Lenney?”.

“Both of my editors are sick so I’ve gone back to the good old days of editing my own videos. Went on a shit date. Buuuutttt�� I set a new PB for a half marathon. And now I’m hanging out with you, so it’s not all bad.” He winked, taking a sip too and passing the bottle back. “What’s happening with you?”.

“The usual. End of financial year causing chaos. Working too much. Going home to what feels like a loveless marriage… and we’re not even married.” You laughed, the weight of your friends’ words heavy on your shoulders.

The room grew quiet. “My intention was to come in here and try to take your mind off of it, but can I just say one thing?”.

You met his eyes. “Yeah. I value your opinion.”

“I’m not going to tell you to leave. If I do, it’s just going to push you away. I’ve done the whole starting over thing and it is fucking scary, but I’m much happier now that I’ve moved forward. So, I just want you to know that I care about you. And when things feel much less intimidating, you just call and I’ll answer.” Will leaned forward, laying a hand gently on her knee.

You hesitated. “This probably sounds like it makes no sense… but I feel guilty for not feeling guilty. Like my motivation for staying with Alex is because it’s familiar and I just don’t feel like uprooting my life right now. Not because I have this desire to be with him forever and wanna work on our relationship. It’s literally just convenient for me to stay in the same flat and not have to do the getting to know you phase all over again.”

Will laughed. “Gonna be honest. I know the whole getting to you know you part is the best bit, but I think I will start throwing tables on dates if people keep asking what my favourite colour is.”

The two of you shared a giggle, before you reached a sudden realisation. “I haven’t been with anyone except Alex in years. I’m gonna be like a virgin again.”

“I don’t think that’s how it works.” Will took a swig in between thoughts. “At least you might get some decent break up sex when you leave.”

You sighed. “I doubt it. It’s pretty underwhelming as is. I think that’s what happens when you transition from partners to roommates.”

“You poor thing… well, do me a favour. Feel free to charm up Freezy so we can have more bath chats on his dime. The man knows his way around a bottle of red.” Will joked.

“I think he’d smell the ulterior motive from a mile away… Freezy and I have had many a night on the red.”

Will’s eyes lit up, holding in his laughter. “I still remember when he stacked it at the tube station and you bandaged him back up with the Peppa Pig plasters.”

Time seemed to pass too quickly. Throughout the night, George’s ensuite attracted a few visitors keen for a gossip - Harry and Lux shared a few sips of wine in exchange for not tattling on them to Freezy. Arthur Hill drunkenly told Y/N how incredibly gorgeous she is, to which she replied with “better write a song about me then darling”. Becky had planned on an Irish goodbye, but stopped in to kiss both of their foreheads before slipping out the front door.

They covered several different topics - flat earthers, Premier League, how to: YouTube Adsense, Will’s weird beef with Chappell Roan, the newest Netflix crime series, The 1975’s best tracks, ultimate routes for marathons. Their friendship had always been that way - easy, kind, forthcoming.

It was about 12am when George came into the bathroom, kicking the two of them out. Though the party was continuing on, the two decided their social battery had hit its limit for the night. Giggling and unable to walk in a straight line, they naturally decided to link arms and walk back to their respective flats.

They were stood in front of Y/N’s apartment complex, hugging goodbye, when Will stepped forward. His eyes flickered to her lips momentarily, before he stepped back and assessed the situation. “Oh fuck. Y/N, I’m so sorry. I’ve made it weird now.”

“No, you haven’t. I just need some time to figure out my shit first. It’s not fair to Alex.” You smiled up at him.

“I know. I meant what I said.” His gaze hardened, looking straight at Y/N, as if to say ‘I really did mean it’.

“Okay. If I call…” she trailed off.

“I’ll answer.” He dug his hands in his jacket pockets, nodding firmly. As she dug her keys out of her bag, he turned back to the path, ready to continue his walk back home.

“Hey, Will?”

“Yeah?”

“Text me when you’re home safe.”

“I will. Don’t forget to call.” He grinned.

“Don’t forget to answer.” And with that, she walked inside.

A week later, she called.

——

A/N:

A nice little slightly angsty one shot for this adorable anon request and one of my fave moots, @octaneink ⭐️ she and @bethorwhateverr are very much keeping my Will fic writing inspo alive at the moment.

As per, feel free to pop any suggestions in my ask box.

Vibe of the fic very loosely based on this track! Hope it was what you envisioned ❤️ https://open.spotify.com/track/0Exki6SgSuYfWQDP0npFlF?si=eZCA2st4Qme-XVFqbTIPpw

[jaybirdie421]

Masterlist for songs used in chapter titles:

Book Title: Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God) by Kate Bush

Prologue: What Was I Made For by Billie Eilish

ARC 1

Ch1: Walking on Sunshine by Katrina

Ch2: Made For Me by Muni Long

Ch3: Mad World by Pentatonix

Ch4: Brother by Kodaline

Ch5: Devil’s Train by The Lab Rats

Ch6: Towards the Sun by Rhianna, Charlie’s Inferno/Terrible Things by That Handsome Devil/AXIE

ARC 2

Ch7: Not Like Us by Kendrick Lamar

Ch8: Devil Town by Cavetown

Ch9: Look Who’s Inside Again by Bo Burnum

ARC 3

Ch10: Burning Pile by Mother Mother

Ch11: The Cult of Dionysus by The Orion Experience

Ch12: Nothing’s New by Rio Romeo

Ch13: We Are Young by Pentatonix

Ch14: Spooky Scary Skeletons by Andrew Gold

Ch15: Material Girl by Madonna

Ch16: Blow My Brains Out by Tikkle Me

Ch17: Meet Me At Our Spot by WILLOW

Ch18: Wait A Minute! by WILLOW

Ch19: Dead But Pretty by IC3PEAK, Abbey by Mitski

Ch20: Just Dance by Lady Gaga

Ch21: Sweater Weather by The Neighborhood

Ch22: Let’s Groove by Earth, Wind, and Fire

Ch23: Pocketful of Sunshine by Natasha Bedingfield

Ch24: Take A Slice by The Glass Animals

Ch25: Breezeblocks by Alt-j

Ch26: Ride by Sir-Mix-A-Lot

Ch27: Touch The Sky from Brave

Ch28: Ole Therebefore by Rachel Zegler

Ch29: Rewrite the Stars from The Greatest Showman

Ch30: We Both Reached For The Gun from Chicago the Musical

Ch31: Too Sweet by Hozier

Ch32: Line Without a Hook by Ricky Montgomery

Ch33: Do You Remember The Rain by (?)

Ch34: 9 to 5 by Dolley Parton

Ch35: Jump in the Line/ Dead Mom (Reprise) from BEETLEJUICE the Musical

Ch36: I/ME/MYSELF by Will Wood

Ch37: Double Life by Pharrell Williams (Despicable Me 4)

Ch38: Your Love (Deja Vu) by Glass Animals

Ch39: When Will I See You Again by SHAKKA

Ch40: End of Beginning by Djo

Ch41: Baby Hotline by Jack Stauber (Micropop)

Ch42: I Know The End by Phoebe Bridgers

Ch43: Heat Waves by The Glass Animals

Ch44: Everybody Wants To Rule The World by Tears for Fears

Arc 4

Ch45: See You Again by Tyler The Creator

Ch46: Cloud 9 by Beach Bunny

Ch47: Plage Coquillage

Ch48: Poison from Hazbin Hotel

Ch49: good luck babe! by Chappell Roan

Ch50: Ghost by Confetti

Ch51: Never Be Alone by Shadrow

Ch52: A Sign of the Times by Harry Styles

Ch53: Work Song by Hozier

Ch54: Sailor Song by Gigi Perez

Ch55: When The World Caves In by Sarah Cothran

Ch56: Ghost Of Chicago by Noah Floersch

Ch57: Upside Down by JVKE

Ch58: The View Between Villages by Noah Kahan

Arc 5

Ch59: Snowman by Sia

Ch60: Harpy Hare by Yaelkore

Ch61: Into The Open Air from Brave

Ch62: Oh Klahoma by Jack Stauber

Ch63: Close Up by Jack Stauber

Ch64: E.T. by Toy-Box

[jonsaremembers]

now I'm curious about your take on this (if you feel up to it!)

Hello! This is an ask game so we can tag phan!! shuffle your favorite playlist and post the first five songs that come up + if you think they can be related to DnP or not. Copy/paste this ask to your favorite mutuals!!

Gladly! I shuffled my On Repeat playlist and got the following (songs above the cut for curious minds, explorations below to spare you my yapping if you need that)

Down Bad by Taylor Swift

The Maze by Manchester Orchestra (thanks @cheekyvank for turning me on to this band <3)

Unsweetened Lemonade by Amelie Farren

21st Century Cool Girl by Chloe Qisha

Graceland Too by Phoebe Bridgers

(as you said - I will relate these to Dan and Phil if I have to drag them to it by the hair)

We begin with #1 "Down Bad," which refers to both "cosmic love" and "teenage petulance" in the first stanza-and-a-half.

Dan's presumed yearning over Skype and wishing for the new chapter of his life to begin are palpable. "In a field in my same old town/that somehow seems so hollow now/they'll say I'm nuts if I talk about the existence of you"

Imagine a lonely Dan on the train platform to go home, "staring at the sky, come back and pick me up."

Come take me back to your world, he says. Let me live there.

#2 "The Maze" speaks of "somebody said it's unspeakable love," which is the closeted years and the things they could not say, the things they held themselves back from.

"Give me some time, let me learn how to speak" as they trailblazed Internet Fame. As they wrote the book on this weird new territory with mistakes, yes, but also with grace and care and kindness!

"You lift that burden off me," though - they were in love all along! They had each other the whole time!

#3 "Unsweetened Lemonade" is SO DAN CORE IT IS RIDICULOUS.

"Attention whore with too much pride/there's no one I wouldn't fight"

"I fucked the reaper cause I knew/my time was coming, can't you see/I was either gonna die at twelve/or ninety fuckin three/I'd do anything for twenty bucks, I'd sell my sour soul/cause lemonade is bitter till you sweeten up the bowl"

In my heart, this song headlines the WAD playlist.

#4 - "21st Century Cool Girl"

Again, we find ourselves with teenage Dan, crushing on boys who didn't like him back and were cruel to him - "Under the bleachers where I cut my teeth/'Till all the silly boys in filthy cars/They left their scars, they cut me deep"

until he met Phil, an earnest emo boy "with a face that has a place inside a teenage magazine"

and "I'll forever be tragically insecure/but if you're ready to love me then I'm all yours" COME ONNN.

and lastly #5 Graceland Too:

"She could go home, but she's not going to"

"A rebel without a clue"

I picture Dani and Fiona on a road trip escaping some kind of institutionalization, don't you? Oh, these hysterical teenage girls and their phases, amirite? They can't possibly know what they want, right? Right?

"Said she knows she lived through it to get to this moment/whatever you want me to do, I will do"

some things are true in every universe

Bonus round: I've titled fics after two of these songs you're welcome

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Friday, February 7th - Part 1

Giles: "Tea is soothing. I wish to be tense."

~~Graduation Day, Part 2~~

The Sunnydale Herald is looking for at least one new editor. Contributing to the Herald is a great way to get your Buffy on! Find out more here.

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

Think Pink by veronyxk84 (Buffy & Dawn, PG-13)

Language by CoffeeHunt (Fanged Four, M)

The Hate You Give by Candyswiz (Buffy/Angel, Xander, G)

I Keep my Eyes Wide Open by hpg (Spike/OC, T)

SOTL: Starborn Trinity by JoshuAB (Scoobies, Starfield crossover, FR21)

Dark Gray by acekoomboom (Buffy/Spike, PG-13)

Turn the Lock by acekoomboom (Buffy/Spike, PG)

Begin Again by acekoomboom (Buffy/Spike, PG)

[Chaptered Fiction]

The Lost Hellmouth, Chapter 5 by silk_knickers (Xander, Lost crossover, E)

Come Together, Chapter 22 by Ren (mizdarknezz3) (Angel/Cordelia/Wesley/Gunn/Fred/Lorne/Spike, M)

In Between Worlds, Chapter 10 by DianneRose2016 (Buffy/Spike, M)

The More Things Change... Chapter 7 by storiwr (Buffy/Faith, T)

The Buffy Chronicles: Life After Sunnydale, Chapter 30 by sweetmelodykiss (Buffy/Spike, E)

Queen of Hearts, Chapter 5 by Murderpart1 (Cordelia/Willow, not rated)

Winter into Summers, Chapter 3 by Iris_Dietrich (Spike/OC, Buffy/Angel, M)

Are We There Yet? Chapter 6 by SonOfACrossBow (Xander/Spike, T)

If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck... Chapter 3 by zinjadu (Buffy & Spike, T, T)

She Is, Chapter 2 (complete!) by xaeyrnofnbe (Angel & Cordelia, T)

Vampires and Other Myths, Chapter 2 by LolaRD (Buffy/Spike, Angel/Cordelia, Ghosts crossover, T)

Case Study | House x Giles fanfic (ft. Skibidi toilet and Trent Reznor), Chapters 1-2 (complete!) by Aut0psy_inc1s1ons (Giles, House crossover, M)

Each Night I Dream of Home, Chapter 1 by storiwr (Buffy/Faith, M)

Just because AO3 said I needed a Title for my Spuffy fic, Chapter 1 by Nightmare_Wrath (Buffy/Spike, M)

Xander's Fever Dreams, Chapter 1 by red_jacobson (multiple pairings, E)

In Between Worlds, Chapter 10 by babylove969 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Truth and Consequences, Chapter 34 by JamesMFan (Buffy/Spike, R)

The Metamorphosis of Moonlit Shadows, Chapter 7 by SlayrGrl (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Rude Awakenings, Chapter 9 by Melme1325 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

An Enmity Most Engaging, Chapter 13 by HappyWhenItRains (Buffy/Spike, NC-17)

Open your eyes, Chapter 3 by Ennoh (Buffy/Spike, Adult Only)

What the Drabble? Vol. 3, Chapter 8 by VeroNyxK84 (Buffy/Spike, PG-13)

Pillar of Strength, Chapter 4 by acekoomboom (Buffy/Spike, PG-13)

[Images, Audio & Video]

Artwork: Buffy by CharlottesWeb2826 (worksafe)

Artwork: flf au spangel by fangs-light-forgiveness-au (Angel/Spike, worksafe)

Artwork: Buffy doodles by melonchews (worksafe)

Artwork: Take my heart 🍏 by x66r9u (Tara, worksafe)

Sims 2: The Summers family moved to Sunnydale by creesims (worksafe)

Fanvid: ► Buffy & Spike - Can We Rest ? by Cut Woman

Fanvid: Buffy Season 4 'TOXIC' (Epic Cinematic Recap) by Up The Buff! (ft. Buffy vs Faith)

Fanvid: slayer force by Endzonas

Fanvid: Buffy & Spike - In Love With The Devil But... | Tribute Part Ⅰ Season 6 by Buffy & Spike Channel

Fanvid: Buffy & Spike -..Salvation Through Her Eyes | Tribute Part Ⅱ Season 7 by Buffy & Spike Channel

Fanvid: spike & buffy - dilute me, gentle angel by eliza

Fanvid: Buffy and Angel - Illicit Affairs by Elsie

Fanvid: Spike & Buffy | Fake Plastic Trees by rebecca

Fanvid: ICU/ i see you (phoebe bridgers)- Spuffy edit by rafaaa

Fanvid: Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 6 Opening Credits (Charmed Style) by Rotten Lemonade

Vidlet: I believe this is killing me by Jaxxo (Buffy)

Vidlet: Dark Willow | Don’t Blame Me by Tara's Willowverse

Vidlet: Buffy edit ( show me who you are ) by Buffy Edits

Vid fragment: queen of the kings | buffy | mep part by DreamingWithDragons

Video: Buffy The Vampire Slayer (monologue) by Spooky (Becoming PT. 2, Buffy to Joyce)

Video: Most devastating Buffyverse deaths by laceyloveshorror

[Reviews & Recaps]

Season 6 by melbreddituser

Video: Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 4: Episode 13 - The I in Team by The Cheshire Kiwi

Video: Boy Crazy Slayers Oh My! Buffy Episode 5 [Never Kill a Boy on the First Date] by Jaymes Mansfield 2

Podcast video: Buffy S03E12 "Helpless" Review by LGRN - Entertainment

Podcast video: Buffy's Angels: Soulless by The Franchise: A Film Podcast

Podcast video: Buffy's Angels: Long Day's Journey by The Franchise: A Film Podcast

Podcast video: Buffy's Angels: The Killer in Me by The Franchise: A Film Podcast

Podcast video: Buffy's Angels: Awakening by The Franchise: A Film Podcast

Podcast video: Rewatching Buffy The Vampire Slayer Series (Part 1) by Brandy Talks TV & Movies

Podcast: 44: “Fear, Itself” (BTVS S4E4) by Penny Lennox

Podcast: RETIRING FEED MARCH 12: 1.07 Angel | A Buffy the Vampire Slayer Podcast by Buffering: A Rewatch Adventure

Podcast: Episode 89: The Yoko Factor and Primeval by Gym Was Cancelled: A Buffy Podcast

[Community Announcements]

AO3 Collection Opens For Posting by spangel-fanwork-marathon

[exclusivecolette]

LOVE AGAINST ALL ODDS

PT.1

(Sorry if the title doesn’t really match the story. I struggled figuring one out. first story so please bare with me.)

(if you aren’t blonde or don’t apply to the features, you can just put your own features in. i just put my features because i didn’t really know what else.)

summary: a girl starts to fall in love with a boy in class. But, her abusive parents are extremely strict (ignoring the fact she’s even old enough to drive.) And what is she gonna do when she realizes, he isn’t just some crush.

TW in the chapter: abusive parents, family drama, cussing

“i’m so sick of this shit” i yell turning around walking into the door frame. “language!” satan yelled following after me. I turn around making eye contact with her. “mom im not a kid anymore” i say going to shut the door. “im not treated you like one by saying you can’t date.” my mom yelled back.

“how old am i?” i ask looking her straight in the face as she looked back with confusion. “16! you can’t tell me who i can and cannot date. you saw me hugging one boy. great now i’m pregnant!” i roll my eyes shutting the door. “i’m telling your father!” fuck. “i don’t care” i shouted back sitting on my bed. fuck.

-

I heard the front door shut. About 5 minutes passed before i heard footsteps toward my door. I had my tv on. “turn that off” my dad said clenching his jaw. I obliged almost shaking in fear. “when your mom tells you something, you listen you understand me?” he got closer until he was in front of my bed.

“dad she said-“ a sharp pain spread across the side of my face. My hand reached up to my cheek then was quickly jerked away. “do not talk back to me. you nod and listen that’s it.” he yelled still holding a tight grip on my wrist. I nod as a tear went down my face. He let go and before walking out said “and clean up your room” there’s a single shirt on the floor.

-

I woke up feeling like shit. I stumble over to the bathroom, use it. I sit at my vanity. great. There was a bruise almost shaped like a hand on my cheek. A bruise concealer couldn’t cover. And the mark around my wrist. Small towns usually seem to keep quiet.

-

Fourth period is so fucking borin- “if you could be any animal what would it be?” a brunette asked next to me. god. “i don’t know matt” i put my face in my hands. “i would be a dog preferably a-“ he paused. I looked up confused on the silence. “what happened to your wrist?” he asked sitting up from his lounging position.

I quickly put my hand over it. Nosy bitch. “nothing mind your business” i say looking away. He just silently sat back. i’m such dick.“i-id be shark.” i sigh looking at him. He just nodded, he looked kinda bummed out. did i make him upset? “why do you have an owl tattoo?” i ask turning my body more to face him. “i just wanted it” he said.

“i like owls, they’re so pretty.” i say turning completely towards him. I saw his eye twitch and he cleared his throat. he’s looking at my cheek. I undo the piece of hair tucked behind my ear. “you have a lot of tattoos. we’re only in highschool” i let out a small laugh and turn back in my seat so he couldn’t see it.

“i like them” he shrugged. “i like them too” i shrug and turn back in my seat.

-

I had just put my bag on my shoulder when someone bumped into me while running down the hallway with their friends. I fell towards someone. “you alright?” i look up to the boy id talk to earlier. “god.” i scoff looking back to the people that shoved me. Matt let out a chuckle.

“fucking prick” i mumble and realize matt’s hands were still on me. “sorry” i say taking a step back and he took his hands off me. his hands were soft. “hey are you going to the game tonight?” he asked. “the hockey game?” i ask. yes the only fucking game tonight. why am i so stupid? “yeah” he insured.

“yeah i go to all of them” i say shrugging. “yeah i remember seeing you at our last one. When we won you looked like you hadn’t gotten in trouble for something.” he smiled “oh you play?” i asked “um yeah you didn’t know?” he asked confused . “no i go because i um have to, my brother plays. Charlie. i just read” i look away in embarrassment.

“yeah i remember seeing you holding one” he laughed. “well i’ll see you tonight” i smile. “if you look up from your book” god am i blushing? i feel like i’m blushing. fuck. “yeah whatever i’ll look for you” i smile about to walk away. His cheeks got red. matt sturniolo blushing?

[clawdee]

WIP & ASK GAME

RULES: Make a new post with the names of all the files in your WIP folder, regardless of how non-descriptive or ridiculous. Let people send you an ask with the title that most intrigues them, and then post a little snippet or tell them something about it!

@beskarandblasters tagged me

Mmm let's see: (all are with 30s!fat!f!readers)

Can You Feel My Heart - Din

Untitled - Din. Kel's Phoebe Bridgers challenge (🤡 < me bc I haven't even started it)

Untitled - Din, Cobb. Din Fan Fic Club challenge "I don't know what's happening but I love it."

Corroded Coffin - Dave York, Eddie Munson (Control series)

Untitled - Dave York, Resnik (also from Equalizer 2- Jonathan Scarfe is hot ok)(Control series)

Untitled - Dave York gets tied up while he's sleeping 😌 (I'm blaming the Dave York discord for this one)(Control series)

The Crucible - Dave York. Sex club 👀 (Control series)

Jesse's Girl - Dave York meets Reader (Control series)

Kept - Donald Pierce (Boyd Holbrooks 'Logan' character) sex worker reader, dub-con.

Untitled - I guess divorced!slut!young!Joel is gonna have a 3rd part

Texas Hold 'Em - no zombie au! Joel. The Bey song had me thinking 👀

Untitled - Joel. Hells Kitchen AU. Very multi chapter.

Untitled - Cooper Howard/The Ghoul. Coop meets his biggest fan 200 years in the future 😌

GOD I think that's it. Me @ my brain: Stop thinking of things!!

Tagging: @rebel-held

I think everyone else has been tagged, and I'm on mobile and brain bad.

(don't forget my writing blog is @clawdeewritesfanfic )

[spritehouse]

ShortMC's Whumptober 2023 Masterlist

Works

Fandom: Criminal Minds Final Word Count: 29.8k All works are Ralvez/Ralvez-related *Recommendations/Personal Favorites

*Terminal Velocity: Prompt: Safety Net (no. 1)

Hate Myself: Prompt: "They don't care about you" (no. 2)

*I'm Getting Desperate (losing my mind): Prompt: "Make it stop" (no. 3)

Kiss Me Before I Start to Think: Prompt: "You in there?" (no. 4)

*The End is Near: Prompts: Part 1: Pinned Down (no. 5) + Radio Silence (no. 7) Part 2: "It should've been me" (no. 6) + "It's all for nothing" (no. 8)

The Sky is Overcast (I'm sorry): Prompts: "You're a liar" (no. 9) + "You said you'd never leave" (no. 10) + Goodbye Notes (no. 24)

Wide Awake, Spiraling: Prompts: Captivity (no. 11) & Insomnia (no. 12)

I Can't Hide From You (like I hide from myself): Prompts: Infection (no. 13) + "Just hold on" (no. 14) + "I'm fine" (no. 15)

Please Hurry, Leave Me (I can't breathe): Prompts: Drugging (alt) + Touch Aversion (no. 17) + Tortured for Information (no. 18)

*It Hurts to Hope for More: Prompts: "I'm not as stupid as you think I am" (no. 19) + "You will regret touching them" (no. 20) + "Don't move" (no. 21)

*It Gets so Dark (so you can see the stars): Prompts: Vehicular Accident (no. 22) + Shadows (no.23) + Storm (no. 25)

Destroyed Everything & Spit Us Out: Prompts: "You look awful" (no. 26) + Scars/"Let me see" (no. 27) + Bloody Knife (no. 28)

Put Down the Knife (we're not swapping blood): Prompts: "What happened to me?" (no. 29) + Reluctant Whumper (alt) + "Take it easy" (no. 31)

Whumptober 2023 Playlist

Every song I used for a fic/chapter title

Hate Myself (dodie) Hate Myself + I'm Getting Desperate (losing my mind)

Four Tequilas Down (dodie) Kiss Me Before I Start to Think

I Know The End (Phoebe Bridgers) The End is Near | I'm Not Afraid to Disappear + When I Call, You'll Come Home

Two Birds (Regina Spektor) The Sky is Overcast (I'm sorry)

Emily I'm Sorry (boygenius) Wide Awake, Spiraling

True Blue (boygenius) I Can't Hide From You (like I hide from myself)

First Love/Late Spring (Mitski) Please Hurry, Leave Me (I can't breathe)

Afraid of Heights (boygenius) It Hurts to Hope for More

Black Hole (boygenius) It Gets so Dark (so you can see the stars) + Destroyed Everything & Spit Us Out

We're In Love (boygenius) Put Down the Knife (we're not swapping blood)

Scrapped Ideas/Work

Ideas Dumpsite: Ideas/concepts that didn't make it to a final draft

Scrapped Scenes (pt. 1): Short Scenes, dialogue, etc. that didn't make it into a final draft

Give it up to You (I surrender): Scrapped Work | Moreid | Prompt: Shock (no. 4)

Doors a Kid Shouldn't Walk Through: Scrapped Work/WIP | Moreid/Ralvez | Prompts: Pinned Down (no. 5) + Recording (no. 6)

more coming soon!

Thank you to everyone who read/interacted with any of my works/rambling this October & thanks so much Whumptober team!

[usanewsadventures]

gracie abrams tickets

Gracie Abrams Announces Six-Stadium Solo Tour After Opening for Taylor Swift’s ‘Eras Tour’

Emerging pop sensation Gracie Abrams has announced her first-ever stadium solo tour, a bold new chapter in her career following her stint as an opening act for Taylor Swift’s record-breaking “Eras Tour.” This milestone cements Abrams as one of the most exciting rising stars in the music industry.

Abrams’ tour, titled “The Good Riddance Stadium Tour”—named after her critically acclaimed debut album—will span six major cities across North America, including iconic venues such as New York’s MetLife Stadium and Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium. The announcement comes just weeks after her final appearance on Swift’s tour, where her performances consistently wowed audiences and drew praise for her hauntingly intimate lyrics and captivating stage presence.

A Rising Star Finds Her Spotlight

The 24-year-old singer-songwriter has been steadily building her fanbase since the release of her EP “Minor” in 2020. With deeply personal lyrics and a knack for crafting heartfelt ballads, Abrams has quickly earned comparisons to artists like Lorde and Phoebe Bridgers. However, opening for Taylor Swift catapulted her to a new level of fame, introducing her music to millions of fans worldwide.

“Touring with Taylor was an absolute dream,” Abrams shared in a recent interview. “Getting to watch her perform every night taught me so much about connecting with an audience. I can’t wait to bring that energy to my own shows.”

What to Expect on the Tour

Fans can expect a mix of intimate storytelling and stadium-scale production on “The Good Riddance Stadium Tour.” Abrams’ signature vulnerability will be paired with high-energy performances of hits like “I Know It Won’t Work” and “Where Do We Go Now?” She also hinted at potential surprises, including special guests and never-before-heard tracks.

The announcement has already generated a wave of excitement on social media, with fans expressing their enthusiasm for the singer’s well-deserved solo moment. Presale tickets will be available starting next week, with general sales to follow shortly after.

A New Era for Abrams

Stepping into the spotlight of her own stadium tour marks a significant turning point for Abrams. While her music has always resonated deeply with listeners, this tour will give her the opportunity to showcase her artistry on an unprecedented scale.

“This is the start of something I’ve dreamed about for as long as I can remember,” Abrams said in a heartfelt post on Instagram. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me along the way. I can’t wait to see you all out there.”

With her talent, humility, and newfound experience from touring alongside one of the biggest stars in the world, Gracie Abrams is poised to take the music industry by storm. As her solo journey begins, fans and critics alike will be watching to see how this rising star continues to shine.

[poisonfrog0]

on songs about graceland

graceland: a sprawling 1930s estate in memphis, tennessee; the resting place of elvis presley.

graceland: faded red velour, antique wood, wrought iron and dust.

graceland: a final destination. a tourist attraction covered in a feeling of absolution.

i had no idea what graceland was until about a year ago.

paul simon won the grammy record of the year in 1987 for his song “graceland”, the title track of his seventh album. i believe this award was well deserved. i have not knowingly listened to any other songs from 1987.

simon sings about a road trip to tennessee with his nine year old son sitting in the passenger seat. he reflects upon his failed marriage: “she comes back to tell me she’s gone / as if i didn’t know that / as if i didn’t know my own bed / as if i’d never noticed the way she’d brush her hair from her forehead.” loss of love is compared to being “blown apart”, metaphorically comparing heartbreak to windows during a storm. the repeating chorus line “i’ve reason to believe / we all will be received in graceland,” is sung as a prayer rather than a lyric.

when i listen to this song, as well as “graceland too” by phoebe bridgers, and “morning elvis” by florence and the machine, i am overcome by the feeling of optimism - a kind of self-sacrificing optimism that occurs during a last resort. the kind of bittersweet you feel when things get better, even though you know the end of the story is tragic (or, at best, sad). but it seems like the composers of these songs know how the story ends. despite this, they are going to graceland. they’ve always wanted to see graceland.

for every artist to depict the same yearning, melancholic (yet hopeful) feeling that shrouds graceland is fascinating. this phenomenon spans multiple decades and genres. in the way that disneyland represents the quintessential american nuclear family and commercialism, graceland has morphed into a sum greater than its parts.

it has turned into an almost mythical destination; a place worshipped and revered for more than it is at face value. but what’s interesting about this to me is: it doesn’t have much to do with honoring elvis or his accomplishments. at least, that’s what i’ve gathered from listening to these songs about graceland. it’s always about - making it - to graceland. i need to make it to graceland. i wish i made it to graceland. what is waiting in graceland?

i can name a few gracelands for myself. i think it is human nature to search for yourself, to search for healing and belonging in other people and places. when i get there i will be okay. when i make it to the next chapter in my life i will be okay. when i am with this person i will be okay. i have experienced mixed success with this mindset - one of the many mindsets i’ve tried on to cope with living - but i do not see anything inherently wrong with this concept. it’s tricky but not wrong. for a long time, my mother country was my graceland. it does make me feel complete and healed, but every time i leave i am inconsolable for weeks. i decided to reclassify it as home. it feels better to miss it that way. a small tourist town on the northwest coast was graceland for many years - while the town itself is lackluster and unimpressive to visit, that specific stretch of the pacific ocean is special to me.

someone from my hometown used to be my graceland. we were not meant to be but i tried long and hard to challenge fate. i have since learned not to make anyone i loved my graceland.

to go to graceland is to be saved. it is a beautiful idea. in some ways i have been saved by these people and places.

graceland - graceland - people sing about graceland as if it’s a castle in the sky. even better than a castle in the sky. it is solace; a place for pilgrims and weariness.

how has a 1930s mansion become such an emotionally significant destination? graceland has transcended its reality: a barely historic building south of memphis, tennessee, with the corpses of a long-dead singer and his family buried somewhere in the lawn. i hope i can visit someday.

[yessadirichards]

Taylor Swift returns to Nashville, reveals 'Speak Now' date

NASHVILLE, Tenn.

Taylor Swift is playing catch-up with her fans this year in a massive and impressive stadium show that embraces her artistic reinventions.

Nearly two months into the 52-show Eras Tour, Swift returned Friday to the origins of her musical career in Nashville, Tennessee, a city she outgrew as a country starlet destined for pop stardom.

In front of 70,000 fans, Swift dropped the news that she would be releasing a re-recording of her Nashville-era 2010 record, “Speak Now,” on July 7.

Swift started releasing new versions of her early albums in 2021, after a dispute over the ownership of the masters, which were sold to — and then by — music executive Scooter Braun. “Speak Now,” Swift's third album, will also be the third “Taylor's Version” recording — she released the re-recordings of 2008's “Fearless” and 2012's “Red” in 2021.

“Speak Now” was an album she wrote entirely by herself and she performed one of the singles, “Sparks Fly” after her announcement, followed by “Teardrops on My Guitar,” from her 2006 self-titled debut record.

The tour started chaotically with a breakdown of Ticketmaster’s ability to withstand the demand of fans, who were eager to see Swift after an extended hiatus from touring due to the coronavirus pandemic. Those who were lucky enough to get into the first of three shows in Nashville made sure to show out in their cosplay outfits inspired by Taylor’s songs, ranging from marching band geek to cardigans and cottagecore.

“I moved to Nashville nearly 20 years ago,” she told the crowd. “And this dream I had since I was so little I can’t even remember even first having it, this dream came true because of this town and the people in it.”

She started off the nearly 3.5-hour show with a line from “Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince” as a gentle spring rain sprinkled on the crowd: “It’s been a long time coming, but it’s you and me, that’s my whole world.”

The Eras tour theme is a natural fit for an artist whose music is often so self-referential, winking and smiling at the previous Taylors and their moments. The show is broken up into acts, not moving chronologically through her discography, but instead presenting like a house with many rooms. The color schemes, choreographed dancers and outfits support the overall feeling of musical theater, with a stage that incorporates rising platforms and hidden trap doors she can disappear through.

With over 40 songs on the setlist from her 10 albums, Swift hits a lot of the highlights of her singles, ranging from “You Belong With Me,” “Shake It Off,” “Bad Blood,” “Anti-Hero” and “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together.” But she also made time for special songs, like her 10-minute fan favorite “All Too Well,” and brought back opening act Phoebe Bridgers to perform their duet “Nothing New,” a vault track released on “Red (Taylor’s Version).”

It was a five-year wait to see all the glittering chapters of Swift’s career on stage together, but the pop star’s marathon performance carried fans through to the last notes.

[effyeffa]

a comprehensive list of (almost) all of my spotify playlists, sorted by theme

category 1: a bit of everything.

every feeling everywhere all at once opened by brian eno, closed by mitski, in between an eclectic mix of everything to scream cry and dance to  essentials. as the title suggests this is the music that makes up the foundation of my identity. funkadelic, air, spiritualized, y la bamba, weyes blood etc etc multitudes: similar idea but older. more hip hop in there, a little time capsule of 2017

seasonal playlists: these are closed chapters that won’t be altered

forbidden fruit february. self explanatory. aquarius season is for yearning and getting messy, thanks fiona apple idlings of march is when spring begins again, just barely but there’s a careful joy spreading. joyful tunes! this must be the place! spring has sprung and continues springing. instrumental interludes as standalone songs, everything sounds like water. the time that we wasted just hit like a wave begin again, another spring playlist. this time with childish gambino, laura marling, hayley williams, guns’n’roses, the classic combo april flowers. short and sweet, alice phoebe lou meets car seat headrest slowly come the saints of summer. do you remember when st vincent said daddy’s home well i made a whole playlist about it. mika is in there. genuinely no idea what was going on that summer. never ending summer, this IS the season of the witch. we love a strange mix of oldies and french and german new wave  i can’t believe summer is over and oh it’s so sentimental, it’s a cherry-coloured funk winter walking. it’s giving phoebe bridgers in the graveyard, mountain goats, springsteen, mother mother winter fruits: the first big thief singles off their latest album came out and sent me down this particular spiral. frankie cosmos and mitski, niche italian indie pop

playlists i still edit/add to, first: good moods.

still you. skinshape, biig piig, kadhja bonet, julia jacklin autobahn, a roadtrip playlist, best friends laughing, mostly italian 70s/80s many moons ago: it’s pop! it’s happy things! silly goofy times golden hour! an old one. started this in 2018, sylvan esso was big, king krule, her’s, clairo will you always love like this? dream pop. lesbianism. st south.  everyday’s a holiday: okay kaya and rex orange county, steve lacy vibes maybe i wasn’t there: kendrick, dijon, rosalía come on over & do the twist. they’re love songs. aching with nostalgia but happy coffee in bed is teetering on the edge between a lovely warm soup of emotions and desperate yearning clear the fog is where the yearning begins in earnest.

moody moods.

free drinks at the local bar, we’ve got mac demarco, the strokes, girlpool. you know the drill take me for a spin: something of a continuation of free drinks a few years later now including sam cohen, kevin morby. sad-ish music that still works if played in public ring: odes to being happysad on public transport in berlin, short and sweet peel you like a fruit. THEE playlist of psychological warfare.  i would be an electrician: if you enjoy julien baker’s happy to be here, the following ten tracks might do similar damage to your psyche  no more bad news from my jorja smith phase, also greentea peng, arlo parks gloomy. it’s the end of the world, sharon van etten said, and love is a losing game, and there’s stormy weather and love will tear us apart.  calm there’s definitely a flatsound track in there. be warned.  

and here’s three completely new ones, works in progress, not yet categorised:

touch. a very specific moment in time. listening to beach house and rhye with all my friends on a big couch, drifting off together, crying a little, holding on tightly all the in between: the only place that matters is by your side, mama you’ve been on my mind, only the strong survive, don’t think twice it’s alright. songs that transcend time and space transitional. seeing angels in everything

already this post is way too long. i have so many playlists, my god. i have a whole folder sorted by genre, one by decade, more by concepts and themes. i’m currently sorting through everything and thought i’d share my process, maybe you’ll find something for yourself new in my chaos :)

[sequinsmile-x]

I Know the End - Not Afraid to Disappear

She wishes they’d met earlier, that they’d had more time. Meeting him here, at the end, was cruel even by the universes standards.

A Hotchniss on the run AU, told in 3 parts

Series Master List

-x-

This is my 100th work on Ao3. Which is...ridiculous and amazing and just about everything. Thank you for your support, your love for my fics and even the (well deserved) screaming.

I hope you enjoy this story, and here's to the next 100!

The name of the fic, and the chapter titles, are from the song I Know the End by Phoebe Bridgers. If you want to get the tone of this fic, I'd recommend listening to it.

-x-

Words: 2.9k

Warnings: Major character death, canon typical violence, references to trauma/PTSD, criminal activity

Read over on Ao3, or below the cut

She’s seen his face before. 

It’s all she can think as she knocks back another scotch in a dive bar in a small town in Texas. 

He looked like a Fed, despite clearly trying his best to look anything but. The jeans and leather jacket and what looked like a polo shirt underneath were doing nothing to take away the serious way in which he held himself. A stiffness to his posture that she instinctually found herself wanting to mess with, to make him squirm. 

Emily can’t help but wonder if she’d been as obvious when she was pretending to be someone else. In many ways, she still was. 

She knows he isn’t one of the people after her, she knew them well, their faces burned into her memory, the people who she once called her team. Her friends. She’d worked through the feelings of betrayal years ago. Allowed herself to feel it, crying in a cheap motel once she’d made her initial escape, the moment when she knew things would never be the same again. She’d learnt since then. Spent the last few years forging a routine, a way of life that she knew like the back of her hand. She knew when to make her exit, to find somewhere new. 

But she still can’t shake the fact she knows his face, and given the not so subtle looks he throws her way, he’s thinking the same about her. She knocks back the rest of her drink and stands, throwing money down onto the bar before she makes a quick exit.

She isn’t sure if she wants him to follow her or not. 

___

He knows her, remembers her name even after all these years. 

She’s older now. No longer the 20 year old he used to see in her mother’s house, an air of chaos around her no matter where she went, wilfulness following her like a sweet perfume. He’d let her back into the house once. He’d been on night duty, and she’d forgotten her keys. He’d got her to her room, drunk and underage to help her avoid accidentally waking up her mother. 

Aaron remembered placing a glass of water on her nightstand and helping her take her shoes off. High heels she’d clearly replaced since with more sensible combat boots. The following day she’d looked at him like they’d never met, and he wondered if she remembered it at all. 

He’d heard she’d died. Rumours throughout the bureau when he was still there that the ambassador's daughter had worked for the CIA or Interpol, depending on who you got your gossip from, and that she had gone rogue. Killed her target before she herself was caught. 

It was definitely her. He might have been married when he’d worked for her mother, but he wasn’t an idiot. She was beautiful, captivating. The kind of person you never forgot. 

Here, in small town Texas, he’d come across Emily Prentiss. 

She looks up at him, and their eyes meet. She frowns ever so slightly, averting her eyes back to her drink as she downs it, slamming the glass down with a little more force than necessary. She throws another look at him before she smiles at the bartender, putting money down at the bar before she makes a hasty exit. 

Aaron would never be able to explain why he followed her, what possessed him to hurriedly throw money down himself before he walked outside too, something about her pulling him towards her. Maybe it was intrigue, the comfort of a familiar face after so long. Or maybe, it was just that he was lonely, the life he had been living since Foyet had torn his old one apart too empty for him to take.

The street is empty when he walks out onto it and he sighs, briefly wondering if he had seen her at all. As he turns to walk back into the bar, he’s met with the barrel of a gun, a pair of dark eyes looking at him over the top of it.

“Why are you following me?” Emily asks, her eyes hard, boring into his as if she could read his mind to find her answer. “Who sent you?” 

“No one sent me,” he replies calmly, his hands up as she doesn’t lower her gun, her grip tightening on it. “I recognised you,” he swallows thickly, speaking as quietly as he can so she can still hear him, “You’re Emily Prentiss.” 

She frowns at him as he says her name, her eyes widening as she looks around to ensure they were alone, pushing her gun so the muzzle is pressing into his stomach, her finger on the trigger. 

“What do you mean you recognise me?” She asks, her face remains stoic, unaffected, but he can see the panic she’s trying to hide from him in her eyes. He looks around them, repeating her action to make sure that they are still alone before he turns back to answer her. 

“I used to work for your mother,” he replies, and he sees the shock flash across her features, her grip on the gun in her hand loosening for the first time, “you were in college, about to start your Master’s I think. Brown?” He continues to look at her, her face still emotionless, “I actually helped you sneak back into the house one time.”

He leaves out that she’d drunkenly come on to him, that she’d kissed him. The brief touch of her lips to his the closest he had ever come to cheating on Haley. 

“Yale,” she corrects him, finally pulling her gun back from him, clicking the safety on as she puts it in a holster, “it was Yale,” she takes a step back from him and looks him up and down. “You FBI?” 

“I used to be,” he replies, half smiling at her when she frowns, her eyebrows creasing, “It’s a long story.” 

He can almost see her entire thought process, the wheels turning in her head as she continues to study him. How she clearly contemplates just leaving him here, their interaction just a blip on her radar like it had been a lifetime ago. He watches as she bites her lower lip and sighs, frustration that seemed to be aimed at herself seeping off of her. 

“Well,” she says, clearing her throat, “you’d better come with me, we’ll find somewhere better for you to tell me.” 

She’s already turning around, her back to him before his brain kicks into gear. 

“Wait-”

“You look like a Fed, Aaron.” She cuts over him, turning to look at him again with a smirk on her face, “you should probably stick with someone who knows what they are doing, or whoever is chasing you will find you soon.” 

He wonders how she knows, what about him gave away that he was also running from something. If she could smell it on him, if he really was that obvious. But something else overrides it all, the question tripping out of his mouth before he can stop himself

“You…remember my name?” He asks, cursing himself internally immediately, the wry smile on her face making him feel something close to embarrassment. 

She steps towards him, the faint smell of her perfume and something that was clearly just her overwhelming his senses as she whispers to him. 

“I remember everything.”

___

She remembered kissing him.

As soon as he’d started talking to her in the alley behind the bar, his voice brought it all back. Memories she had boxed away when she became someone else all flooding to the forefront. 

She’d been enamoured with him from the moment he’d arrived at her mother’s house. The same feeling she’d had in the bar, the need to mess with him, to make him squirm, one of the few things that had entertained her that summer. Emily remembers the night he mentioned, how he’d let her into the house and treated her with such kindness she could still feel the warmth of it now, decades later. The lingering heat from an extinguished flame. That, combined with her general attraction to him and the amount of tequila in her system had made her kiss him. He’d pulled back immediately, something that she understood the following morning, his wedding ring one of the first things she’d noticed about him. 

She’d pretended nothing had happened, that their interactions were nothing more than those she had with the other people who worked for her mother. It was easier. 

Pretending, Emily had learnt, was one of the things she was best at. 

He was clearly running from something. His demeanour was that of someone who was uncomfortable, not used to his surroundings. All of his years working for the FBI still lingering around him, making him stand out in a way she knew would draw attention to him if something didn’t change. 

If asked, she wouldn’t be sure why she’d taken pity on him. It could be classed as loneliness. Intrigue because he wasn’t wearing a ring anymore, a part of her wondering if that was linked to why he had quit the FBI, why he was in a similar situation to her. 

Mostly, she knew it was because he knew her name. It had been so long since someone had known her name. 

She lets him into the motel she’s been staying in, locking the door behind him as he walks in. When she turns he’s looking around, seemingly taking interest in her belongings, her bag always mostly packed in case she needed to make a hasty exit. 

“Drink?” She asks, unable to stop herself from smiling when he jumps slightly, turning to face her as he nods. 

She takes two of the motel issued glasses and heads over to her bag, pulling out a bottle of scotch. She pours them a generous measure each, passing him his drink as she sits next to him on the bed. She turns so she’s looking at him, her eyes briefly lingering on the sharp edge of his jaw, the way this throat moves when he swallows some scotch. 

“You want me to start from the beginning?” He asks, his question snapping her out of her slight stupor. She nods at him, taking a sip of her drink, the burn in her throat distracting her from the one in her cheeks caused by being caught staring at him. 

“It’s as good a place as any.” 

He sighs, his lips set in a firm line as he looks straight ahead again, eyes fixed on the wall in front of him, as if he couldn’t bring himself to tell her if he was looking at her. 

“You ever heard of the Boston Reaper?” He asks, briefly looking at her so she can nod in response, before looking away again, taking a sip of his scotch, “I was part of the Behavioural Analysis Unit at the bureau, we profiled criminal behaviour, travelling the country to help catch killers. He was the first case I worked when we didn’t get the guy, the lead detective sent us home.” He chuckles dryly. “I’d almost forgotten about it, something that I’d think about when I couldn’t sleep, but I moved on. Then I got a call from the lead detective years later, saying he needed my help.” 

She watches as he talks, the way he shakes his head at himself, clearly placing the blame for whatever had happened on his shoulders. 

“Turns out he’d made a deal with the Reaper, a deal that was about to expire because he was dying. We caught him. He’d posted as a victim himself. George Foyet.” He spits out the name, his hand tightening slightly on his glass. “He escaped.” 

He falls into silence, and she clears her throat. “Did you find him again?” 

“More like he found me,” Aaron answers, briefly looking at her before he looks back at the wall, “he broke into my apartment, stabbed me 9 times, and then dropped me off at the hospital,” he shakes his head, “my team took forever to find me, too long. They thought I’d taken the morning off, they only realised something was wrong when they got a call that one of my agents was in the hospital. Foyet had his badge, he left it with me.” He pauses, knocking back the rest of his scotch, swallowing thickly, “by the time we realised what his plan was it was too late.” 

She feels a sense of foreboding wash over her, his sadness and guilt travelling through the air in the small gap between them. Her throat feels tight, her eyes fixed on his empty ring finger. 

“Aaron, you don’t have to-”

“By the time the SWAT team arrived at my old house, he was already gone. My son and ex-wife were dead.” He says through his teeth, clenching his jaw to keep himself together. She sighs sadly, closing her eyes. “My son was three. And he…” he drifts off, eyes screwed shut as he tries to rid himself of the images she knew he’d never be free of, “eventually I found Foyet, and I killed him. It wasn’t self-defence, I wasn’t even working at the time. I just killed him.” He laughs dryly, shaking his head. “I knew they’d be after me, that legally what I’d done wasn’t justified, so I left.” 

“I’m so sorry that happened to you,” she says, not sure what else there was to say. He’d have heard all the platitudes she’s sure. From family, from the team who had once worked for him. “How long ago?” 

“About a year since I killed him. Haley and Jack have been gone 18 months.” He looks at her, his eyes cold, a humourless smile on his face, “So what do you think, Emily? Is my story sad enough for me to tag along with you?”

She feels embarrassment, and something close to shame colouring her face as he asks her, her gut twisting at the implication that she knew wasn’t entirely false. 

“That’s not what…” she starts in an attempt to defend herself that he shuts down with a single look, “Yes. But we should move on tomorrow, I’ve already been here too long and all the locals in that bar were staring at you like you were an undercover cop.”

He smiles for real this time, and she ignores the pull in her belly. 

“What about you?” He asks, his eyes meeting hers. 

“What about me?” 

“I heard rumours, stories about what happened-”

“Another time,” she interrupts him, her hand touching his arm, the first physical contact they’d had. He nods, understanding whether he liked it or not he wouldn’t be able to force her to tell him. 

“Answer something else instead?” He asks, and she nods. “Why did you bring me here?” 

She can’t tell him the whole truth, she knows that. Can’t let him know that it was something as small, as sentimental as the fact he knew her from before. The old Emily that she was certain was long gone.

“It’s less conspicuous if we travel in a pair, people won’t pay as much attention to a couple than they will a single traveller.”

He seems to accept the answer, standing up from the bed. “I should get back to mine, I’ll meet you here in the morning.” 

“Stay,” she says, far too quickly, clearing her throat before she carries on, “you may as well. Then we can leave early, swing by where you’ve been staying to get your things.” 

His eyes flash to the bed, “There’s only one bed.” 

She rolls her eyes at him. “I’m not the 20 year old girl who tried to kiss you anymore, Aaron,” she says, smirking as he blanches, clearly sure she didn’t remember that part, “I’m a grown woman. I think we can manage sleeping in the same bed.” She grabs her pyjamas from her bag, heading into the tiny adjoining bathroom of her motel room. “Besides, we’d better get used to it, if we’re going to do this sticking to one room is safer.” 

She gets a vague response from him as she enters the bathroom, pulling the door closed firmly behind her. She blows out a breath and looks at her reflection in the mirror. She scrubs her hand down her face, and tries to gather herself, unsure if this truly was a good idea or not, but aware there was no turning back now, even if she wanted to. 

When she’s ready for bed she walks out of the bathroom, giving him a chance to do whatever he needed to. He walks back out in his boxers, his clothes in hand as he dumps them over the chair in the corner. 

“Well, that answers a question I’ve had for over a decade,” she jokes, dissipating some of the tension in the room as he climbs into bed with her, putting as much distance between them as physically possible, “always wondered if you were a boxers or briefs kind of guy.” 

He glares at her, something she can’t read in his eyes as he settles on his side, turning off the dim lamp on the nightstand next to him.

“Goodnight, Emily.”

“Night, Aaron.” 

Neither one of them mentions it when they wake tangled together in the morning, curled around each other like pieces of the same puzzle. 

-x-

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[atlabeth]

everything happens for a reason part 4 - zuko x fem!reader

The night was full of terrors and your eyes were full of tears

part 3 | masterlist | part 5

a/n: i told you this was where everything starts to go downhill !! throw one out for my girl kura though water tribe mothers stay winnin

i had this scheduled for next week but elle wanted angst so it’s out today😁😁

wc: 2.9k

warning(s): threats/talks of killing and violence, lots of stress, ozai being the worst (and racist), basically just. angst

chapter title comes from the night we met by lord huron + phoebe bridgers!

The blood in her veins turned to ice as she shot a panicked look at Zuko.

“What?” A frown was already forming on Zuko’s face despite his efforts to remain impassive. “Why?”

“I’m unaware of the reason, my prince. All I know is that I am supposed to escort you to the throne room, then once you are finished to deliver the servant. Another guard will be here shortly for her.” A pregnant pause hung in the air as the two children met each other’s eyes, the fear obvious in Y/N’s.

“I’m sure you know that the Fire Lord does not like to be kept waiting, Prince Zuko.” The guard’s voice brought them back to reality and Zuko nodded unsteadily as he began to walk with the guard, shooting a look that he hoped was reassuring back at Y/N.

She couldn’t even return the sentiment — she was completely frozen in place despite the age old urge to run shooting through her body. Servants didn’t meet with the Fire Lord in any sort of formal way — Spirits, they barely even talked to the royal family as a whole unless it was for some kind of business reason; even then they were at risk of their infamous explosive tempers.

Y/N might’ve been young, but she understood just as much — she was as good as dead the moment that guard arrived.

What was she supposed to do? Y/N was a child, a servant — if the Fire Lord wanted to see her, she had no choice but to follow along with it. But she knew that nothing good was going to come out of this. She cherished her friendship with Zuko more than anything but she hadn’t been treating it as seriously as she should’ve.

Her mother was right. She couldn’t imagine her life without Zuko now, but Y/N knew now that she never should’ve attempted anything more than professionalism. The Fire Nation was a cruel place, the Fire Lord was a cruel man, and she was going to pay the price for trying to go against it.

As if summoned by her thoughts, her mother came storming around the corner with an unusual haste in her step, the fire blazing in her eyes only offset by the pure horror.

“Y/N, what did you do?” Her mother’s frenzied voice went in one ear and out the other as she just stared at her wide eyed, mouth opening and closing but nothing coming out. “Why did I hear the Fire Lord’s personal servants talking about meeting with a servant girl?”

“I�� I—” The stammered syllable was all that she could get out, but Kura didn’t wait for an answer. She grabbed her daughter’s hand and began to run, constantly looking behind her as they darted through the hallways towards the servants’ quarters. Once they had arrived, she slammed the door shut behind them and immediately got to work.

“I’m sorry!” she cried, finally managing to form a sentence. “I— I’m sorry, I wasn’t thinking about—”

“You weren’t thinking about anything!” Kura flew around the room, shoving various items into a satchel and all but clearing out Y/N’s area of the quarters. “I told you to be careful just talking to him, and now— now this?”

“I’m sorry!” Y/N repeated, her words coming out in between choked sobs. Her head was spinning and she could barely breathe — no more than twenty minutes ago everything was perfect, how did it go so wrong so quickly? “I thought we were safe, I thought that they wouldn’t know—”

“The Fire Lord will always find out,” Kura muttered, still a whirlwind around the room as she tried to think of anything her daughter could need. “I was too lenient. I should have never let you get close to him.”

“I don’t know how it happened, but I started liking him and he started liking me and we went out into the city even though I knew we shouldn’t have and he told me he liked me and I like him even more now but now I’ve ruined everything!” Y/N heaved another shaky breath, the words flowing out of her like water as tremors ran through her whole body. “And now the Fire Lord is going to kill me!” she sobbed.

“Nothing is going to happen to you, baby. Okay? Not as long as I’m here.” Kura threw a cloak behind her at Y/N. “Put that on.”

“Why?” She began to do what her mother asked, but questioned it anyway.

“Because I’m going to get you out of here.” She dug through a parcel of coins and after a quick count, threw it into the bag as well. “The Fire Lord wants to mess with my daughter?” she muttered to herself. “He’s going to have to go through me first.”

“How?” Y/N asked yet again, her voice just as uncertain as she felt — it was like she was incapable of anything other than one word responses.

Satisfied with the contents of the satchel, she put the strap over Y/N’s shoulder. She then knelt on the ground in front of her and adjusted her cloak, carefully pulling the hood over her head to conceal any distinguishing features. “I want you to listen to me, and I want you to memorize every word I say. Is that clear?”

Y/N nodded and Kura cast another glance at the door, as if expecting the Fire Lord himself to burst through the door at any moment, before turning back to her daughter. “Alright. You are going to leave the palace through the servant door near the infirmary. You’re lucky — the guards should be changing shifts around this time, so if you move quickly you’ll be able to make it past the walls without getting caught. Do not stop running until you reach Harbor City — I don't care how tired you get or how much your legs ache, do not stop. Ask around for Eisuke, but be careful; the place is brewing with criminals. Once you find him, tell him you are Kura’s daughter. He’ll be able to get you out of the city; if he wants coin, give it to him. From there—”

The door burst open all of a sudden and Kura shot up, instinctively hiding Y/N behind her. She relaxed when she saw it was only Aiko, but the somber look on her face told her all she needed to know.

“There’s a guard looking around for Y/N,” she warned. “I managed to throw him off the path for now, but it’s not going to last. If you’re going to get her out, you need to do it now.”

Kura turned back to her daughter, once again kneeling in front of her. “From there, do whatever you can to get to the Earth Kingdom. You’ll have far more allies there than anywhere in the Fire Nation. Once you get far enough north, you’ll be able to find a boat to take you to the Northern Water Tribe. Tell them that you are Kura’s daughter, and show them this.”

She ripped her necklace off from around her neck and tucked it into Y/N’s hand — a simple band with a blue stone carved in the shape of a flower — and closed her fingers around it. “They’ll recognize it from my time in the tribe, and they will help you. Do you understand?”

Y/N swallowed the lump in her throat and nodded, her eyes already shimmering with tears. “I’m so sorry, mother. I’m so sorry.”

She shushed her and embraced Y/N in a tight hug, trying to soothe her as much as she could. “It’s alright, darling. You shouldn’t have to apologize for being a child.”

“Why can’t you come with me?” she asked desperately. “You’ll be safe too.”

“I have to stay back to make sure that you’re safe on the other side as well,” Kura reassured. She knew that if her daughter disappeared right before she was supposed to be punished, it would only serve to anger Ozai more. If she left alongside her, Kura was almost certain that all of the servants would be punished; if she stayed then she would be able to take full responsibility — as long as she knew her daughter was safe, Kura could weather anything.

“But I can’t do this alone,” Y/N pleaded, the tears now falling freely. “Please, mother.”

“You can, my little otter penguin. You’re braver than you even know. “ Kura pressed a kiss to her forehead and smiled faintly at her before looking back at Aiko. “Can you make sure she gets out of the palace safely?”

“Of course.”

Kura embraced her once more, squeezing so tightly that Y/N couldn’t breathe, but it was a welcome sensation this time. “I love you, Y/N. Always remember that, no matter what happens.”

Y/N nodded and shouldered her satchel, biting down on her lip hard to keep herself from shedding any more tears. “I love you too, mother. I swear, I’ll find my way back to you. I don’t care how long it takes.”

Aiko took Y/N’s hand and began urging her towards the door, looking back at her mother with nothing but pure sympathy. “I hope you know what you’re doing, Kura.”

“So do I,” she whispered.

-

Zuko knelt in front of his father, willing himself to keep his eyes on the floor as well as stop the tremors running through his body. He was in trouble, he had to be for a meeting like this, but all he could think about was Y/N and how much trouble she would be in. He had to figure out some way to save her—

“Prince Zuko.” Ozai’s voice boomed throughout the hall, and he worked to maintain the mask of stoicism. It was near impossible with the countless thoughts bouncing around in his head, but he somehow managed. “I’m sure you know why I have called you in here tonight.”

He counted in his head the seconds passed for an appropriate pause before answering cautiously. “No, father. I’m not aware of the reason for this.”

“Don’t lie so blatantly to my face,” he spat. “I have eyes everywhere, and I know you were in the city without permission. Am I correct?”

Zuko swallowed the sudden lump in his throat and nodded shakily. “Yes, father, you are. I went into the city today with—”

“With a servant girl?” The flames on either side of him flared up as a result of his growing anger. “I would ask what was going through your head when you decided to do something so stupid, but it doesn’t seem like anything is going on up there.”

“She needed silks for a project she was working on,” he said, trying in vain to defend himself. “She didn’t have the materials that she needed so I thought I would take her out into the city to help her.” It was so much more than that, but Zuko feared for what would happen if his father knew the feelings he harbored for her.

“You are the crown prince,” Ozai growled. “It is not your job to help servants. You should know better than to go prancing around with Water Tribe savages, but I suppose I have to teach you a lesson.”

“Please, don’t—“ Zuko began, but he was cut off yet again.

“You will speak when spoken to,” he interrupted through gritted teeth. “If you won’t take such a coveted position seriously, then I will take it into my own hands. I will not have your feelings ruining the image of this family after how hard I have worked. The Water Tribe peasant will suffer severe consequences, and it will be your fault. This will be your lesson to remember just who you are. Nothing in this world comes without a cost."

Zuko felt his heart stop for just a moment as his father’s golden eyes bore into his own, and he dug his nails into the flesh of his palm in a half-hearted attempt to stay calm. “Father, is this really necessary?”

“The mere fact that you are questioning my decision proves that it is,” Ozai seethed. “This is not your choice to make, and every attempt in undermining my authority will make her suffer more. Do you understand?”

He found himself unable to speak, the horror of the situation still processing in his head. Y/N was going to get hurt, possibly killed, and it was all his fault. He should’ve been more careful, he shouldn’t have been around her at all, he was being completely selfish by wanting her company and now his father was going to—

“I will not repeat myself again; do you understand?”

Zuko inhaled sharply and nodded, his vision coming back into focus as he croaked out a “yes”.

Ozai appeared less than satisfied, but it seemed the extended company of his son was not worth worming a better answer out of him. He directed his attention to the guard waiting by the door. “Take him back to his quarters — station two guards outside to ensure that he stays put. Once you are done, find the savage and throw her in a cell. A night in the cold will loosen her tongue. You are dismissed.”

Zuko felt numb as he pulled himself up from the floor, bowed, and walked out of the throne room with the guard. Every fibre of his being screamed at him to break away from the guard, to run and find Y/N, and take her away from this dreaded place before any harm could come to her.

But he didn’t. He remained in place, following the guard silently to his room as a storm brewed in his mind.

What in Agni’s name had he pulled her into?

-

Prince Zuko doesn’t sleep a wink that night, spending every moment staring out the window with wide eyes and a petrified heart. He has no idea how Y/N is going to get out of this, and he feels like a coward for not being able to protect her. What good is any kind of honor if this was the cost?

The next day, he is forced to be with a guard at all times — he doesn’t catch a single glimpse of the waterbender.

The next day, the rest of the week, a month — no sign of her. He tries to find Kura, but is met with the same result. He manages to sneak his way into the prison, but he can’t even find her there. None of the other servants will tell him anything about their whereabouts, either out of fear that the same will happen to them or direct orders from his father.

He feels like he’s tainted, like he only brings pain to those around him. His mother gone, his love missing, dead, or worse, and the same for her mother. The effortless cruelty his father shows to everyone around him — it makes him wonder if that’s what will become of him when he eventually takes the throne.

It makes Zuko sick, to think of what she went through and that he was the cause of it. It takes everything in him to hold the tears back, but the floodgates open at night when he is alone — with Y/N gone, he feels that way more often than not.

Every sign points to her being dead, but Zuko prays to every spirit he knows that she somehow found a way out.

-

Y/N doesn’t sleep either that night, every breath and every step dedicated to getting farther away from the palace. Every sound she hears sends tremors through her body, expecting every cracked branch or bump in the night to be someone coming to finish the job. More than once she questions what in Tui’s name is she doing, and Y/N knows that her mother’s final words are the only reason she is able to get through this.

She feels like a coward for leaving. Her mother is going to bear the consequences, and it’s more than likely other servants will suffer because of her too. And Zuko — she has no idea what is going to happen to him. He may be the crown prince, but title has never stopped Ozai before. She doubts it will stop him now. Knowing that it won’t last is the only comfort — she’s just a servant; punishment will only be inflicted to make an example out of the situation and then it will be left alone.

At least, that’s what she hopes for.

Y/N tells herself that she will reunite with Zuko no matter the cost. No matter how long it takes, how much she has to go through, even if she has to break into the damn palace — she knows that her story with the prince is not over, even if she has to keep writing it herself.

She will see him again. Y/N knows that much.

-

oops²

perm tag list: @dv0412 @siriuslyslyslytherin @maruchan77

ehfar: @chandies-sideblog @persica27 @anzanity

atla: @marianne1806

[playlistmusings]

Everyone knows you’re the way to my heart

*Completed*

Chapters:

(1)Prologue (2) Yelled down the hall, but nobody answered (3) Always surprised by what I'd do for love, Some things I'll never expect (4) But I feel something when I see you now (5) And I've never seen you smiling so big

Jude Duarte x Cardan Greenbriar

Jude and Cardan love each other so much that they're convinced they hate each other. Everyone else can see through their lies to themselves. So, with the help of some enchanted necklaces, the Court of Shadows decides to solve this problem-- because all the complaining and yearning is really getting old. Ft. Jude and Cardan refusing to have one (1) singular thought about their actual feelings and a very helpful Roach. Set vaguely between the Cruel Prince and the Wicked King.

(title from Punisher by Phoebe Bridgers)

[wannaliveattheholidayinn]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist (TV) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Zoey Clarke/Simon Haynes, Zoey Clarke & Simon Haynes Characters: Zoey Clarke, Simon Haynes, (mentioned) Max Richman Additional Tags: Post-Break Up, Reveal, (idk that was the only tag that wasn't identity reveal), anyways zoey reveals the powers, Ambiguous/Open Ending, kinda???? i guess, i transcribed the post break up convo i hope y'all like this, :), Mention of polyamory Summary:

And yeah, she still had weird feelings for Max, but that didn’t take away from the fact she also had very strong feelings for Simon and the fact that it felt so goddamn wrong to call Simon her ex-boyfriend.

title partially from ICU by phoebe bridgers