#chicago blues festival

[thejoyofviolentmovement]

News/Announcements: 12th Annual Blue Note Festival Lineup

News/Announcements: 12th Annual Blue Note Festival Lineup @BlueNoteNYC @bluenoterecords @SonyHall @BeaconTheatre @TownHallNYC @SummerStage @BRICcelebrateBK @ManhattanCenter @SACKSCO

bnposter81Download Since its founding back in 1981, the Blue Note Jazz Club is recognized as being one of the premiere venues in the world. The club strives to preserve the history of jazz while simultaneously encouraging and practicing innovation on a nightly basis. In addition to iconic appearances from the likes of Chick Corea, McCoy Tyner, John Scofield, Ron Carter, Chris Botti, Joe Lovano…

[raisingkidsinchicago]

Fall in the City: Chicago’s Must-Do Activities for October 25-27

 Juliana Yeager  Boo Bash at Hamilton Elementary Come enjoy a day packed with fun for everyone, including a costume parade, a Thriller Flash Mob dance lesson, live interactive reptiles and insects, spooky carnival games, arts and crafts, exciting prizes, music, food for purchase, and the famous Hamilton Haunted House, hosted by Hamilton’s scariest Middle Schoolers! Photo By Choose…

[sinceileftyoublog]

Shemekia Copeland Interview: Break It Down to the Basics

Photo by Dave Specter

BY JORDAN MAINZER

A couple weeks ago, in speaking with Shemekia Copeland over the phone, I called her out. Though her new album Blame It On Eve, out Friday via Alligator Records, is her purported attempt to make an album that's a "break from the news" instead of "breaking news," she still sings about doomscroll-worthy topics. She admitted it right away. "I can't help myself," she said. "There was no way I couldn't talk about women's rights on this record." The album's very title refers to society's tendency to put the woman at fault, one that, of course, has biblical precedent. Copeland always has a way of selling you without hitting you over the head. "Hurricanes and tropical twisters / Always gettin' named after some sisters," she sings on the title track, "But the worst winds come from DC / Stealin' rights from you and me." Even alongside Jim Hoke's skronking saxophone and Luther Dickinson's screaming guitars, it's Copeland's wail that rises above.

Copeland calls herself "an idea person" who works with a stellar team of songwriters. Like most lyricists do, she jots down song ideas when they come into her head, and flushing the songs out with her team happens organically. "It's like getting a dress tailor made to fit you," she said. Blame It On Eve is her most balanced record yet. There are autobiographical songs (the blues stomp "Tough Mother"), paeans to interracial love ("Cadillac Blue"), gospel-rock jams ("Tell The Devil"), educational treatises ("Tee Tot Payne"), and even a couple covers, including her father Johnny's "Down on Bended Knee". Copeland turned to longtime collaborator Will Kimbrough to produce the record and play various instruments on it, and the core band of Kimbrough, bassist Lex Price, and drummer Pete Abbott treats Copeland's words with appropriate gravity. Kimbrough's mournful, echoing licks mirror Copeland's pained expressions on "Only Miss You All the Time". And the band's rock and roll strut gives levity to an otherwise serious song "Broken High Heels", where Copeland cleverly compares our collective attitude towards climate change to "Dancing in a graveyard in broken high heels."

Indeed, Copeland's songs that one might call "political" aren't really that--they're just about issues that affect everyday life. "Anything uncomfortable, people want to call it political," Copeland said. On "Is There Anybody Up There?" a duet with Alejandro Escovedo, the narrator starts to doubt that God is listening when looking at the ills of the world, like our broken immigration system, before realizing that his very doubts make him a sinner, too: "If they crucified poor Jesus, think what they'll do to me!" "Tee Tot Payne" is, of course, about the Black man who taught Hank Williams the blues. Copeland views the song as part of the larger conversation going on about Black influence on country music, and an important opportunity to engage with Black history. "Rhiannon Giddens wrote an amazing essay about the banjo and how it wasn't originally an instrument used amongst white bluegrass artists as much as it was used within Black culture," Copeland said. "They're trying to get rid of history, so for my last records, I try to put something educational in there."

As traditional as is the music Copeland makes, her view on making records and performing is pretty consistent with that of today's world. She's the first artist I've ever interviewed to admit that the sequencing of her albums isn't crucial. That is, she doesn't care whether listeners listen to the album's songs in order as much as they pay attention to what's in each song. "In all honesty, I don't believe sequencing is that important because people don't listen to records that way. I still do, but people don't listen to records in sequence. People pop it into their device and listen to it the way they want to," Copeland said. She then offered a caveat. "But it's important to me that they hear all the songs. They all fit on the record in some shape or form." That's Copeland, the idea person, thinking big picture, knowing that the collection of songs makes a whole, but each individual track tells a unique story. It's perhaps why her approach to playing live is so effective. Sequencing a set is important to Copeland, but it's less about planning and more about doing some of her own listening. "I don't really do setlists. I try to feel out the audience. I have some idea what we're gonna do, but I change it up," she said.

At the end of the day, Copeland has an innate sense for what makes songs tick. As she and her team write and practice, they start to think about who else could feature on the song, always without overloading it. It's how they ended up with Jerry Douglas contributing lap steel on "Cadillac Blue", Dashawn Hickman providing Sacred Steel guitar on "Tell the Devil", and Cara Fox playing cello on "Belle Sorciere", on whose chorus Copeland sings in French. Copeland's song-making prowess, though, is never more so evidenced by her version of Ron Miller's "Heaven Help Us All", recorded most famously by Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles. The album closer, it features Kimbrough on organ and Lisa Oliver Gray and Odessa Settles providing impassioned backing vocals. Copeland had first heard the Charles version, which appeared on his 1972 album A Message from the People and featured Gladys Knight. "It [has] a lot of background vocals and horns. It was done in a very big, produced way," Copeland said. "I thought I wanted to break it down to the basics." She's not a minimalist, but when you listen to Copeland's albums or performances, or even talk to her on the phone, every word and moment is essential. She can't help it.

Tour dates:

8/30: Peoria Blues & Heritage Music Festival 2024, Peoria, IL 8/31: Fishers Blues Festival, Fishers, IN 9/1: Rhythm & Roots 2024, Charlestown, RI 9/5: Bell's Brewery, Kalamazoo, MI 9/6: The Ark, Ann Arbor, MI 9/7: Wheatland Music Festival, Remus, MI 9/17: Americanafest Showcase at 3rd & Lindsley, Nashville, TN 9/20: Fanatics Pub, Lima, NY, United States 9/21: Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival, Pittsburgh, PA 9/22: Center for the Arts of Homer, Homer, NY 9/27: Rochester Opera House, Rochester, NH 9/28: Spire Center for Performing Arts, Plymouth, MA 10/10: One Longfellow Square, Portland, ME 10/12: StageOne at FTC, Fairfield, CT 10/13: Ardmore Music Hall, Ardmore, PA 10/17: Daryl's House, Pawling, NY 10/18: Elkton Music Hall, Elkton, MD 10/19: Rams Head On Stage, Annapolis, MD 10/20: The Tin Pan, Richmond, VA 11/14: Music Box Supper Club, Cleveland, OH 11/15: The Acorn, Three Oaks, MI 11/16: City Winery Chicago, Chicago, IL 11/17: City Winery St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 11/22: Lizzie Rose Music Room, Tuckerton, NJ 11/23: Barre Opera House, Barre, VT 11/24: City Winery Boston, Boston, MA 11/30: SFJAZZ Center, San Francisco, CA 12/6: Sam's Burger Joint, San Antonio, TX 12/7: The Kessler Theater, Dallas, TX 12/8: Houston Blues Society Holiday Bash at Rockefeller's, Houston, TX 1/19: One Longfellow Square, Portland, ME 2/7: Zellerbach Theatre at The Annenberg Center, Philadelphia, PA 2/16: Vero Beach Blues Festival, Vero Beach, FL 2/22: Soka Performing Arts Center, Aliso Viejo, CA 2/23: Poway Center for the Performing Arts, Poway, CA 4/4: Lied Center of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 4/7: McCain Auditorium, Manhattan, KS 4/12: Bitterroot Performing Arts Council, Hamilton, MT

[barbarasegalandassociates]

A favorite coffee shop stop on Saturday, Ralphs.

[robmooreguitar]

Website: https://www.robmoore-guitar.com/

Address: Chicago, Illinois, USA

Rob Moore Guitar, led by the seasoned Chicago blues artist Rob "Wild Boar" Moore, offers an authentic blues experience. With a career spanning over four decades, Rob has played alongside blues legends and brings a rich blend of jazz and blues to his performances. Available for solo, duo, and band performances, as well as lectures and workshops, Rob Moore Guitar embodies the spirit of Chicago blues.

Keywords: blues guitar player for hire live music entertainment for events event musician services music for events and parties guitarist booking for special occasions musician for corporate events wedding blues guitarist hire festival blues music performer club blues performer for hire blues music for events and functions chicago blues performances blues guitar workshops and lessons blues music lectures and talks solo blues artist bookings blues band live shows duo blues performances for events blues music education services blues guitar teaching and lessons blues event musician for hire blues music seminars and classes chicago blues entertainment blues music workshops and tutorials live blues event bookings blues guitar masterclasses blues music instructional sessions blues artist for events and parties blues music cultural workshops blues guitar event performances blues music history lectures professional blues guitarist services experienced blues music performer live blues entertainment for hire blues guitar lessons and coaching blues music workshops and training blues artist booking for events blues music cultural education blues guitar event appearances blues music history talks skilled blues guitarist services blues music live performances blues guitar expertise for events blues music for weddings and parties expert blues musician services live blues music for events blues guitar lessons and workshops blues music education programs blues artist live performances blues guitar event entertainment blues music history sessions blues guitarist for weddings professional blues music services live blues guitar performances blues musician for corporate events blues music for special occasions blues guitar workshops and classes blues music lectures and seminars solo blues artist appearances blues band live performances duo blues musician for events blues music education and teaching blues guitar coaching and lessons blues event musician expertise blues music seminars and training chicago blues entertainment services blues music workshops and coaching live blues event artist bookings blues guitar masterclasses for hire blues artist for corporate events skilled blues guitarist for hire expert blues musician for hire

[reasoningdaily]

Nationwide — Ennerèssa LaNette, the founder and CEO of Praize Productions, Inc. (PPI), a Chicago-based dance company and arts organization, is celebrating having reached an impressive milestone as her company commemorates its 12th anniversary season this year. This summer, PPI will participate in the inaugural Millennium Park Residency Program (MPRP), joining three other highly respected cultural organizations.Ending Soon: Funding and Grants For Black Women and Families

The program, organized by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), offers resources and a platform for select organizations to showcase their work during Millennium Park’s vibrant summer season. On June 4th, PPI is scheduled to captivate a sold-out audience with their unique fusion of dance and storytelling on the iconic Jay Pritzker Pavilion stage.

Under the guidance of an esteemed Black female leadership team, PPI is dedicated to giving voice to the stories and experiences of Black artists through their work. By maintaining strong connections to the community and fostering social consciousness, PPI’s influence extends beyond the stage, inspiring future generations of artists and change-makers. The organization has consistently provided high-quality performances that rival those of non-minority-led dance companies. The company’s dedication to their craft has resulted in outstanding success and recognition, both at the local and national levels.

“We at PPI feel incredibly privileged to be part of the first-ever Millennium Park Residency cohort. Being a Black-led organization hailing from the South Side of Chicago, we can��t help but feel that this is a truly special chance for our city and the world to see the amazing talent that our community has to offer. Our hearts are deeply committed to working towards giving a voice, platform, and opportunities to professional artists of color, and we couldn’t be more excited about this journey,” says Ennerèssa.

Inaugural Millenium Park Residency recipient Praize Productions, Inc. led by its CEO/Founder Ennerèssa LaNette will produce a one-of-a-kind photography installation entitled “The Rhythm Within Our Blues” in tandem with this year’s Blues Festival. This unique artistic development will incorporate life size photographs that depict the history and authentic culture of Blues music told via the lense of professional photographers of color from Chicago’s South Side. Photographers include Amber Green, Seed Lynn, and Tony Smith.

Festival goers will be able to be engrossed with this exhibit as they are imaginatively transported to Bronzeville- Chicago’s Blues District while walking through and experiencing large images of historical landmarks, Blues’ artists, and much more. This new addition to the June 8-11th Blues Festival, the largest festival in Chicago, adds to the artistic richness and deep appreciation to Blues music and its greats.

For more information please visit their official website at PraizeProductions.com

[pinksturniolo]

summer smash

chris and matt sturniolo x fem reader

a blurb from the versus universe

summary: chris and matt decide to take you with them to chicago for the summer smash festival. later that night in the hotel room, when matt shows you what he filmed on his vlog camera, a certain idea sparks his interest…

content warnings: heavy smut, threesome (no male on male/incest), poly relationship, oral male and fem receiving, doggy, sex tape, fluff (literally a summer smash lmao)

disclaimer!: this story is purely fictional and came from my own twisted mind, pls don’t take anything in this fic literally. i highly doubt matt and chris would ever share a girl, however for us horny freaks, the idea is fun 😂 and matt if ur lurking and you see this… no you didn’t 🩷

matts large hand wraps around your calf as he tugs you towards the end of the bed, standing over you with his vlog camera in his other hand.

he captures the sight of your wet, throbbing core as he spreads your legs wider by pushing your thighs open, his teeth digging into his bottom lip at the view of you beneath him. squirming.. leaking… practically buzzing with the need to feel his fingers against you.

but he doesn’t touch you there just yet, a hint of a smirk on his face as he locks eye contact with you. “touch yourself. i wanna see you get even wetter for me.”

his instructions somewhat shock you since you’ve never touched yourself in front of him before but your heart is racing with the thrill of him watching you, lust pumping through your veins.

“go ahead darling. for me?” he coaxes, noticing your brief moment of hesitation. his voice is sweet like honey and he holds the camera steady, his eyes focused on your fingers as you drag them down your pelvis, slowly dipping them into your folds.

he still holds your legs open, his one hand gripping your inner thigh. his mouth starts to part when you rub your fingers back and forth slowly through your pussy, the feeling of increasing wetness coating you and a small whine escapes your throat.

“mmm such a good girl aren’t you?” he says, the words coming out breathy as matt finds it a little hard to resist pulling his achingly hard dick out right now and slipping inside you. but he’s enjoying this game of simon says and it’s going to be especially fun later when he watches it back on his camera.

see, matt’s always had the fantasy of recording you. capturing you in your most vulnerable moments with him. the way you sound as you moan for him, the way your body looks as he brings you to the cusp of pleasure, the sinful way your eyes roll into the back of your head as he thrusts into you.

it all started as you were laying next to him a few moments ago, his arms wrapped around you as your head laid on his chest, excited as he showed you what he filmed earlier at the festival.

you wanted nothing more than to go to the concert with them but had other obligations for work, however they still insisted you come with them on the trip.

matt’s excitement turned into lust when he saw the silk shorts you had on, your bare thighs squishing together on the bed and once his hands started running over your skin, he just couldn’t turn down the opportunity to get you naked on camera.

after all, it was for his eyes only. chris was preoccupied in the shower and he had every intention of using this time to act out his little fantasy.

“does it feel good baby?” he asks and you nod, your eyes slipping close as you dip one finger inside, your spongy walls tightening.

“keep your eyes on me.” he says and your eyes snap back open at his request, his icy blue gaze sending another wave of pleasure through you.

“rub that clit for me.” is his next order as he focuses the view of your nimble fingertips circling your bundle of nerves, your body more than happy to obey his demands.

you whine loudly now, incredibly wet from touching yourself and observing the way matt watches you, a slight flush of pink on his face, his mouth parted and veins in his forearm showing as he grips your thigh even harder.

“matt…” you breathe, unable to hold back the neediness in your tone.

“yes?” he replies, licking his lips as he leans down now, resting on his knees in front of you, his hand moving dangerously close to where you want him the most.

“please.. touch me.” you beg him and his smirk grows wider at your response, his eyes flicking up to your face.

“is that what you want sweetheart? you want me to help you out?” he chides, the condescending tone of his voice making you clench around nothing.

“yes, please. so bad.” you’re shameless in the way you want him and he’s more than happy to oblige as the camera captures him slipping his middle and third finger into your dripping hole, the metal of his cold rings against your skin making you moan loudly.

he curls them inside you as he goes deeper, pressing against your sweet spot.

“fuck baby, i can’t wait to be inside you.” he all but moans, his words making you drip down his hand.

“feels so- mmm -gooood” you babble, struggling to keep your words coherent as he pumps his fingers into you at a merciless pace, the lewd sounds of your wetness being heard.

“yeah? keep talking to me baby, you sound so fucking pretty like this… all worked up for me..” he rasps and you just about cum from his praises alone before he sets the camera down, now completely set on having you orgasm on his fingers, bringing his head down to suction his lips around your clit.

he swirls his tongue, sucking and lapping at your clit while brushing your g spot repeatedly with his his fingers, his breaths coming out in hot puffs as he buries his face into you.

with a loud moan of matt’s name, the coil that’s been building in your abdomen releases at the same time you hear the bathroom door open, and see chris step out from the corner of your eye.

you turn your head to see him standing there, steam filtering out from the shower he just finished, a white towel hanging low on his hips. droplets of water fall from his hair as he stares back at you and the sight of your legs shaking around matt’s head sparks jealousy within him.

"I leave for 10 minutes and this is what happens, huh?" he complains, walking towards the bed.

your heart rate is increasing again from seeing chris in just the little hotel towel, barely coming down from the high matt just gave you.

"couldn't help myself..." matt mumbles, still lust drunk and eyes locked on your body as he gets up from his knees, gripping your hips and turning you over so you're face down on the bed now.

"think you can cum for me again my love?" he asks, smoothing his hands over your curves before he grabs the camera again, the perfect view of your ass out for him, as he positions his cock against your entrance.

"yes.." you say, and you look up to see chris's shocked but intrigued expression as he takes notice of matt filming you, his towel still around his hips as he sits back against the headrest of the bed.

"what the fuck matt? are you making a sex tape? did she even consent to this?" he asks and you can't but giggle as he looks at you, a slight tone of concern in his voice.

matt simply scoffs at his question. "you're ruining my video, idiot."

before anyone else can say anything, matt slides inside you with ease, both of you letting out sounds of pleasure as he sets a slow pace that steadily builds you up to the edge once again.

chris watches with growing arousal as he sees the expressions of pleasure on your face. it's one of his favorite things about you - how lost you get in moments like these. the sight is so enticing that without realizing it, his hand grazes over his own growing arousal through his towel. he bites down on his bottom lip, unable to break eye contact with you. you want him to feel good just as much as you're feeling right now.

it's not foreign to the three of you, to let them both share you. usually, you split your time in between the two of them. but in moments like these, when you had them both to yourself, they were more than happy to please you at the same time.

from an outside perspective it can be alarming and taboo. and weird. but to the three of you, it became the most sexually satisfying and almost natural relationship to be experienced. at first, the arrangement was hard as you navigated the uncharted territory of sharing your heart, body, and soul with two vastly different men.

but once the initial hesitation melted away, a world of unparalleled intimacy opened before you. chris and matt became your twin flames, each illuminating unique facets of your deepest desires. with chris, passionate trysts of unbridled lust set your very being ablaze, his insatiable hunger to possess you leaving you breathless. matt, in contrast, worshipped you with a tenderness that rendered you amazed, cherishing every inch of your form as if it were a masterpiece crafted solely for his reverence.

you existed in a realm of pure ecstasy, the three of you inseparable as you reveled in the delights of your unorthodox bond.

"need some help baby?" you ask and he wastes no time shuffling closer to you, your face now directly in his crotch as he tugs the towel down, eager to feel your mouth on him.

matt picks up speed a little as you feel him deep inside you and you whine as stick out your tongue, sliding it along the side of chris's cock before smushing your wet lips against it. he groans and lets out a deep moan, his jaw slackening as he watches you.

he grips your hair tight in his hand and pushes his cock into your mouth. "did my sweet girl get off without me, hm? being all needy with matt while i was in the shower" he says with a smirk.

his words cause you to moan around him, the vibration sending waves of pleasure through his body. you look up at him with the most innocent of expressions, and he pants as your lashes flutter, taking him deeper into your mouth and down your throat.

"fuck.. you're so beautiful.." he groans while his hands find their way to your breasts, kneading them gently, as your hips rocked back and forth, meeting matt's every thrust. It was a symphony of lust and desire, with the sounds of skin slapping against skin, accompanied by your muffled moans and chris's whimpers.

"damn, you're so wet..." matt groaned, his voice raw with lust. "I bet you've been dreaming of this, haven't you, baby?"

you moaned in response, too consumed by pleasure to form coherent words. matt's angle changed, hitting that spot deep inside you, sending electric jolts of pleasure shooting through your body.

your orgasm is fast approaching, and between their combined efforts, it feels so damn good that you think you might just pass out from pleasure. you clench around matt so tight he's seeing stars and your muffled cries are heard as you cum around his dick.

through it all, you manage to keep your head bobbing sloppily on chris, his hands still holding your hair as you suck him off as best as you can with matt pounding into you from behind.

"shit baby, feels so fucking good.." chris says and he shudders, his seed spilling onto your face, as matt slammed into you one last time, filling you up.

all three of you are spent and panting, your bodies covered in a mix of sweat and arousal and once matt catches his breath and cleans you up, he goes to run the shower again, letting you know to join him when you're ready.

chris holds you close to him before you go, pressing sweet kisses to your cheek. "that little fucker is crazy if he thinks i'm not getting my own fuckin' fancy camera to make our own private movie. better than whatever mediocre shit he filmed..."

a/n: in conclusion im a whore for chratt im sorry 🤷🏻‍♀️

taglist!! <3

@sturniolopepsi @tillies33ssss @whicked-hazlatwhore @riasturns @christhopersturniolo @junnniiieee07 @seahorsie11 @inveigledvex @mattslolita @certifiednatelover @glassesmattsbae @eryismum @sturncakez @wh0resstuff @ribread03 @sturniololoco @75sturn @mattscoquette @jnkvivi @h3arts4harry @chrizznmetswife @bambi-slxt @streamermattsgf @mattspolitank @sturnsxbitvh

[suchananewsblog]

The Mahindra Blues Festival has tickets selling out. But how is it helping this musical genre?

Every year, around Valentine’s Day, blues music fans from across India and the world meet for an annual date at Mumbai’s Mehboob Studios. They congregate for the Mahindra Blues Festival. It returns on Saturday after a three-year pandemic-induced interval, marking its 11th edition, which makes it one of the country’s longest-running music festivals. That’s an impressive run for a show dedicated to…

[hlficlibrary]

Remember to leave kudos and a comment on the fics you enjoyed to show your appreciation! You can find the library's other recs here.

🍊 Own the Scars by @crinkle-eyed-boo {E, 144k}

“But I don’t belong here,” Louis insists.“Why do you say that?” James asks.“These people are all drug addicts and alcoholics,” Louis shrugs.Something sparks in James’ eyes.“And you’re not?”

Louis has never felt like he was good enough: for his stepdad, for his life-long best friend, for the life he's supposed to want. After an accident that nearly costs him his life, Louis' parents send him to rehab where he’s forced to face his demons. On the long and difficult road to recovery, Louis must confront the truths he’s been avoiding about his future, his relationships, and his sense of self-worth. Because before he can love anyone else, he’s got to learn how to love himself first.

🍊 California Sold by @isthatyoularry {M, 123k}

Notoriously closeted boyband member Harry Styles is famous on a global scale, meanwhile Louis, as his best friend, is back home in Manchester, living the typical life of a 24 year old. When Harry needs Louis with him in LA, a publicity stunt gone wrong changes their friendship forever.

A fake-relationship AU between two lifelong best friends.

🍊 I'll Fly Away by @juliusschmidt {E, 122k}

Harry and Louis grew up together in Lake County, Harry with his mom and stepdad in a tiny cottage on Edward’s Lake and Louis in his family’s farmhouse a few minutes down the road. But after high school, Louis stuck around and Harry did not; Harry went to Chicago where he found a boyfriend and couple of college degrees. Six years later, Harry ends up back in Edwardsville for the summer and he and Louis fall into old patterns and discover new ones.

ft. One Direction, the local boyband; Horan’s Bar and Grill; families, most especially children and babies; Officer Liam Payne; many local festivals and fireworks displays; and Anne Cox, PFLAG President.

🍊 Heading for Limbo by @kingsofeverything {E, 100k}

Childhood best friends who’ve fallen in and out of touch with each other since Louis’ family moved away when they were thirteen, Harry and Louis find their paths crossing again and again. Each time, no matter how many miles apart or how many years it’s been, it’s as if no time has passed. They fall back into their easy friendship, until life intervenes and sends them on their separate ways once more.

When Harry discovers some life-changing things about himself, Louis is there for him, however he needs. But it’s all temporary because Louis has plans that will move his life from New York all the way to L.A. and the distance isn’t the only thing between them.

The pieces of their twice broken hearts are scattered from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

🍊 When the Lights Go Out by thelarenttrap / @antidotetogo {E, 79k}

“Louis, what do you have to say about how last week ended?” the reporter asks. There’s a moment of silence. Harry is looking at the reporter, but eventually gives in and looks down the table at Louis. He’s looking straight ahead, as if Harry isn’t even in the room. “If you can’t take the heat, then get out of the kitchen.” Harry leans forwards, placing his arms on the table and leaning onto them to get as close to his microphone as he can while looking at Louis. “And what’s that supposed to mean?” Louis turns to him, his icy blue eyes meeting Harry's. “Driving is your fuckin’ job, act like it.”

In its near eighty years of existence, Formula 1 has never had an out gay driver. In 2017, Harry Styles signs a contract with Scuderia AlphaTauri alongside his childhood friend and competitor, Louis Tomlinson. The next decade of their careers is some of the most tumultuous press--on and off the track--Formula 1 has ever seen.

aka the one where Louis and Harry are childhood friends to enemies to lovers over the course of 15 ish years.

🍊 Bottom of the Tenth (series) by kikikryslee / @flamboyantommo {M, 60k}

As Harry stood there, the other man turned around, and he knew he was correct in who he thought it was. “Louis?” he asked, still not quite believing it. Louis blinked. “Harry? Wh– what are you doing here?” “I work here,” Harry said. “What are you doing here?” “Um, I’m picking up my brother. The nurse called and said he was sick.” Harry felt like he was going to be sick. “Wait, Ernest is your brother? Since when do you have a brother?” “Since about seven years ago, I guess. Wait, how do you know Ernest?” “I’m his teacher.” “You’re his what?” Louis exclaimed. Harry gulped. This was going to be a long year.

Or, the AU where Louis and Harry were best friends growing up, but lost touch after Harry moved away. Ten years later, Harry has moved back to town, but he and Louis don't pick up where they left off.

🍊 Never Let Me Go by loveisalaserquest17 {E, 55k}

“Harry! I’ll tell you what,” Louis exclaims, clapping his hands together. There’s a big grin on his face. “If both of us are still single by your thirtieth birthday, we’ll marry each other.”Harry’s head snaps up, eyes widening. “What?”

Harry and Louis have been friends forever, but they couldn't be more different. One night, with a little too much alcohol, they make a pact to marry in ten years if they're both still single. Now, one month before the deadline, Louis is willing to do whatever it takes to avoid ending up with his best friend. But is he, really? | Loosely inspired by The 10 Year Plan

🍊 Faking It by TheCellarDoor / @donotdialnine {M, 46k}

A uni AU in which Louis has been Harry’s best friend since he offered him cubed fruit on the playground, and they spend more time cuddling in their dorm beds than they do apart, but it’s not like that. Or is it?

Aka Harry pretends to date his best friend to escape unwanted attention from a too insistent classmate and hopes it won’t blow up in his face. Featuring embarrassing dildo accidents, awkward boners, longing, first times, late night conversations, emotional discoveries and Niall as the exasperated friend with bad advice.

🍊 it always leads to you (in my hometown) by @insightfulinsomniac {E, 40k}

Doncaster hasn’t changed much since Harry left it nine years ago to chase his dreams in LA. Harry, on the other hand, has changed a lot.

Except for one thing — he’s still desperately in love with his childhood best friend and first boyfriend, Louis Tomlinson. Who he hasn’t spoken to for the same nine long years.

A holiday story of returning home — not just to a place, but also to a person. ‘tis the damn season and This Love inspired AU.

🍊 Canyon Moon by delsicle / @eeveedel {E, 40k}

For as long as Louis has remembered, he has been promised to be mated to Harry, his best friend and the future pack alpha. But Louis’s heart belonged to the forest and to the hunt more than he could ever imagine it belonging to Harry.

Then Harry’s father dies in a violent accident, and Louis’s future alpha disappears on the wind.

An A/B/O Lion King AU

🍊 Snow In Love by @lululawrence {NR, 33k}

Harry and Louis are best friends and have been for basically as long as they can remember. For the first time since middle school, they are both single for the holidays leaving them with the brilliant idea to take each other as their dates to work events. To make things easier they will pretend like they’re dating. But then they learn something funny.

People thought they were already dating. Weird.

An advent fic featuring childhood friends, fake dating turned actual dating, really horrible secret keeping, and a winter weather surprise.

🍊 Oh, We're In Love, Aren't We? by Rearviewdreamer / @all-these-larrythings {M, 30k}

After sixteen wonderful years of friendship, it's hard to imagine any grand (and usually dumb) plans they haven't had or some type of mischief they haven't gotten into together. But, when Harry suddenly finds himself without a fiance and Louis just wants to help him feel okay again, they realize falling in love is one thing they haven't done, and that's about to change.

🍊 Forever Never Comes by Larry_you_know / @larryyouknow {M, 25k}

Victorian au, where Harry Styles, the youngest son of the Duke of Sutherland, was always a little in love with his childhood friend Louis Tomlinson, the young Earl of Doncaster, though he would never have told him in a million years. Especially since Louis never showed him any signs of romantic affection. But now Louis has invited him (and his sister Gemma) to London, and many things may not be as they have seemed.

🍊 I Wanna Be More Than Friends by @2tiedships2 {NR, 20k}

He hadn't meant to scent Harry. They were best friends and that was it. Scenting best friends wasn't exactly socially acceptable.

"Lou," Harry whispered.

Louis jumped at his name and sat up straighter to provide a bit of distance between himself and Harry.

"You can't scent me, Lou," Harry stated.

Which of course Louis couldn't scent him. They were best friends.

"I mean," Harry continued. "I wouldn't mind exactly, but if I can't scent you, I don't think you should scent me."

"What do you mean you can't scent me? I mean, I get it because we're best friends but..."

"I mean I can't smell you, Louis. I fucking can't smell you. I can't smell anything, okay?"

Or the one where Harry’s an alpha with no sense of smell, Louis’ an omega who isn’t allowed to scent his best friend, and that’s all they’ll ever be. Obviously.

🍊 threadbare by kiwikero / @icanhazzalou {M, 20k}

Harry Styles was eight years old when Louis Tomlinson kept him from falling into a machine in a Manchester textile mill.

He was 18 years old when nothing, not even the threat of death, could keep Harry from falling in love with Louis.

🍊 Restless Lane by @jaerie {E, 14k}

Louis had grown used to his boring life back in Mississippi as a stand-in father figure to his siblings. He never expected his childhood friend to show up on his lawn with the heat of summer or that he would remind Louis how much of himself he'd tucked away and neglected. He also never expected to find himself caught up in a tangled web of feelings or secrets that just might break him. Maybe he had never known Harry at all.

🍊 you and I love like it's a secret by we_are_the_same / @so-why-let-your-voice-be-tamed {T, 4k}

Louis swallows, looking at Harry, who grins at him as though nothing’s wrong. He’s leaning against the door of a wardrobe, his long hair having lost some of its curls due to the amount of times he’s run his fingers through it. Louis is still where he was the moment the door got closed behind them, all but pressed up against the wood, trying to keep as much distance between him and Harry as possible.

His heart stutters in his chest as he looks up at his best friend. He’s known Harry since he was barely out of diapers, and Harry gets him in a way that few people ever have – or have tried to. He knows him, to the point where sometimes Louis worries that he’s able to read his mind.

Or: It's Seven minutes in Heaven, but Louis sort of feels like he's ended up in Hell instead when he's forced into a small bedroom with his childhood best friend slash long time crush.

🍊 All The Way Home I'll Be Warm by @justanothershadeofblue {T, 2k}

Harry & Louis jokingly send out holiday cards together as friends, and now everyone is congratulating them for finally getting together. A 5+1 fic, for Christmas.

🍊 What’s in a Name by @hellolovers13 {T, 2k}

Louis had always known Harry was his soulmate.

The name on his arm disagreed.

But what did his soulmark know about true love anyway.

🍊 captivity by momentofclarity / @gaycousinlarry {G, 1k}

you get to a point in life when your secrets aren't as holy as they once were.

[queenie-ofthe-void]

A Desperate Fool - Part 6

Part 5

Last Time: Nancy starts filling in the gaps of everything Eddie's missed

~~~

Max, Lucas, and Erica were the first to quit calling. Hell, they’d always been more Steve’s than Eddie’s, since he’d adopted Max with the last of his parents’ trust money when he turned nineteen. After the kids graduated, Steve had set himself, Max, and Robin up in a cheap two bedroom apartment in Chicago where they all started school. Then Lucas moved in only a few months later– Max and Lucas in one room, Robin and Steve in the other. Only for Eddie to then uproot Steve to LA just before he could finish his degree, selfishly isolating him from his family.

Dustin was the next to disappear. They were close, and Eddie considered the kid one of his best friends. It apparently didn’t matter, which–just like with the other three–he should’ve seen coming. Steve was practically a brother to Dustin, same as Max. Eddie just always thought the split was more fifty-fifty with Dustin. It was a thick pill to swallow, but he managed.

He reached his final breaking point when Nancy and Mike started ignoring him. Eddie could make excuses for the rest of them, they were Steve’s adopted, puzzle-piece family. The Wheeler’s were Eddie’s family by blood. 

His parents kicked him out for kissing the neighbor boy– well, his adopted parents. Turns out Karen Wheeler had put him up for adoption three years before she met Ted, but was too scared to reach out, hoping he was happy with his new family. When little twelve year old Eddie showed up with a social worker at her door the next day, however, Karen welcomed him with open arms. He figures he’d be dead if it wasn’t for them, caught up running petty crimes just like his dad.

But that all meant Mike and Nancy were supposed to love him, not Steve. He called non-stop once he’d finally understood what was happening, but they never answered. Eddie remembers lying in bed for days, ruminating on how they’d picked golden boy Steve Harrington over their own family. Old feelings of neglect and rejection curdled up in Eddie’s stomach. A reminder that he was just a burden. Some lost, broken, queer kid they never asked for, forced onto them when Karen and Ted already had three mouths to feed.

Eddie's resentment towards everyone carried the band through their first national tour. He wanted to kick-off on a festival tour in Europe once they finished, but the band was exhausted. They were desperate to take a break while Metal Munson was still riding on top of the world, a full-fledged rockstar getting invites to behind-the-scenes parties, walking the red carpet, and casually dating celebrities. 

But he still loved his Corroded boys, so he agreed, thinking the break would allow them time to recover and give him more time to reap the benefits of a rockstar lifestyle. 

Except staying out every night started to lose its shine. The parties were duller than he remembered, the lights less bright. Mindless flirting with boys only interested in Metal Munson strained his smile. Strange, strong hands started to feel like sandpaper across his bare skin, the tangled sheets between them constricting Eddie until he couldn’t breathe. 

It all came crashing down when he woke up in an unfamiliar bed next to a man with fluffy brown hair, moles scattered across his back. Brilliant, sky blue eyes staring back at him.

Eddie quit going out. Stopped answering phone calls– not that the calls came from anyone who actually mattered. 

Because Steve never called. Not once, still hasn’t. And Eddie doesn't think he ever will.

~~~

Part 7

Tag List!!!

@sadisticaltarts @5ammi90 @blacklegsanji21 @jaytriesstrangerthings

@thewickedkat you didn't actually asked to be added to the tags, but I included you bc of your comment on the last part. If you'd like to not be included next time just lmk <3

[jerzwriter]

Thank you to @snoopdogcone for this prompt for @choicesprompts Angstvember event! I hope you enjoy it!

Book: Open Heart (Book 2 timeline) Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey MacTavish (F!MC) Rating: Teen Words: 1,406 Summary: Tobias Carrick didn't do relationships. Not until he met Casey, but the closest he ever came in the past was Monica. He hadn't seen her for years, but they decided to catch up when she was in Boston for a visit. Will old sparks reignite, or has Tobias really changed?

A/N: Participating in @choicesmonthlychallengenov2024 Prompts: commitment, memories

It was just a drink.

Tobias repeated that to himself over and over as he headed to Yvonne’s. Nothing more than that. He hadn't been known for having serious relationships in the past, but if one person had come close to sharing that with him, it was Monica. He hadn't heard from her in years, and when she reached out to let him know she was in Boston, he didn’t think anything about meeting up. She was once an important part of his life, after all, and he was curious to see how she was doing. He was happy now, happier than he ever could have imagined with Casey. His exes? Monica included... they were from chapters in his life that were permanently closed. So, there was wrong with a drink for “old time’s sake.” It was just a drink.

Yvonene's was an upscale bar known for its understated elegance and dim lighting, but tonight, the energy was vibrant, and Tobias and Monica did their part to add to the festive atmosphere. His eyes sparkled as they talked; Monica hadn’t changed a bit. Her melodic laughter filled the air, and her dark waves shimmered each time she tossed back her head. They reminisced about the old days, recalling friends Tobias hadn’t talked to in years, and she had him howling with stories about her capers in Chicago. He brought her up to date on his life as well, including his relationship with Casey. Monica was shocked but seemed to take the news in stride.

Everything was going well, and they stepped out into the crisp Boston night when they ran out of things to say. They shared a few last words as they waited for their cars to arrive. That’s when things took a turn. Monica turned to him, her gaze locking on the crystal blue eyes that once knew her so well. Tobias felt the shift at once.

“What’s up, Monica?” he asked, not waiting to address it.

Her smile turned tantalizing as she reached out, fingers tracing down the cool wool of his jacket. “It’s been such a lovely night,” she murmured. “But I don't want it to end. Why don't we go back to your place, maybe recreate some good times, you know... for memory’s sake.”

Tobias took her hand and gently eased it away. “Monica,” he started. “I’m flattered, but I told you. I’m with Casey now.”

His voice was sincere, but Monica wasn’t moved. “Tobias, please,” she smirked. “I think it’s great that you and Casey have... a thing... and I’m not asking you to propose, but let's be real... we both know you are not a one woman man, so...” her well-manicured fingers ran down his lapel, eyes shining. "This can stay between us, Tobias... no one else has to know.”

“I’d know,” he responded, removing her hands more forcefully this time. “Look, Monica, the man you once knew and the man I am today are two very different people. I love Casey; she's the only one I want. I’m committed to her and would never betray her.”

Monica’s eyes narrowed. “You’ve got to be kidding me, Tobias?”

“Not even a little,” he replied resolutely.

“Well, that’s a shame,” Monica sighed. “It’s a good bet that won’t last for long. I’d tell you to look me up once you’re bored, but I might not be available then, Carrick.”

Tobias exhaled, his patience wearing thin. “You know, it was a lovely evening, Monica. Was,” he seethed, holding his gaze a moment longer. “I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay.” With that, he turned on his heel and walked away.

He shook his head as he entered his car, wanting nothing more than to be with Casey, but she was working an overnight shift. He called, but it went straight to voicemail. “Hey, baby,” he began. “Just wanted to tell you that I love you, and I miss you. I’m wiped out, so I’ll probably pass out when I get home. If you call and don’t reach me, that’s why. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

~~~~~

It was almost noon when Tobias began to stir. He smiled as he stretched in the bright sun shining through his bedroom windows. Sleeping late was a luxury rarely afforded to him, so he was refreshed and ready to welcome the day. He decided to check his messages before stepping into the shower, and that’s where things began to fall apart.

He was disappointed to see there were no messages from Casey. However, there was one from Monica:

“Hey T, I thought I’d let you know that I filled Casey in on all the details. You really should have mentioned them to her before spending the night with me. Not that I minded, of course. It really was great seeing you again, T."

Tobias could feel his temples beginning to throb. Spent the night with her? Was she delusional? Sure, they had drinks together, but that lasted about an hour, and he went home alone. But if Monica had led Casey to believe something more happened, then she was going to have to answer to him.

Casey didn't answer his call, so he sent a quick text saying they needed to talk. But that wasn't good enough. He grabbed his jacket from the closet and rushed over to Casey’s. She was sitting on her front steps when he arrived, wrapped in a fluffy fleece blanket. She was composed despite her tense jaw and a flash of anger in her eyes. Tobias didn't know what to expect.

“Casey—” he started, his voice almost desperate.

“So, it appears you're aware that Monica contacted me,” she said with just a hint of sarcasm.

“Baby, I don’t know what she told you,” he pleaded. “But I swear to God, nothing happened between me and Monica. We had drinks at Yvonne’s, just like I told you. We caught up a bit, and then I went home... alone. You have to believe me.”

His heart raced when Casey didn’t immediately respond. “Look, we can go to my place right now. I’ll show you the footage from the security cameras. I went home right after I left you a voicemail...and there was no one with me.”

“Tobias,” Casey sighed, motioning for him to sit next to her. He wrapped his arms around her, and she covered them both with her blanket.

“Do you believe me?” he whispered.

“Of course I do. But this whole thing is still upsetting. Why... why would Monica do this?”

“I don’t know,” he said, running a hand down his face. “Last night was going fine... we were just catching up. Then, we were waiting for our rides to arrive, and she asked to come home with me. I shot it down right away. I was honest with her. I told her about you; there was no way I was going to...”

“Shh, shh, shh,” Casey said, raising a finger to his lips. “It’s OK, babe. So, you spurned her, and she was pissed, so she decided to create some drama for you.”

“Yeah, well, she’s going to get a piece of my mind! She can be pissed all she wants, but the minute she tried to hurt you... all bets are off!”

“You know what, Tobias, the best thing we can do is ignore her and just... be happy. She wants to upset us. I say we don’t give her the satisfaction.”

Tobias's thumb caressed Casey's cheek as he gazed deeply into her eyes. “You’re incredible, do you know that?”

“Of course I do,” she smirked. “It takes a pretty incredible woman to put up with your bevy of exes.”

“A bevy may be a bit of an exaggeration,” he smiled.  

“OK, a horde, then?”

Tobias chuckled as he took her under his arm. “I’m so glad you didn’t believe her.”

“I know who you are, Tobias, and... I trust you.”

"Good, because I promise you, Casey. You have nothing to worry about with me."

Tobias’s shoulders relaxed as the tension began leaving his body. He promised Casey once more that nothing and no one could ever come between them. She found amusement in the situation, teasing him that her exes were far less problematic than his. With that, they headed inside and warmed up with a pot of hot chocolate. Tobias was quite confident he'd enjoy this night much more than the one before.

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[thejoyofviolentmovement]

New Audio: H2SO4 Share an Arena Friendly Banger

New Audio: H2SO4 Share an Arena Friendly Banger @heygroover @romainpalmieri @DorianPerron

Throughout the past year, I’ve managed to spill a bit of virtual ink covering British electro pop outfit and JOVM mainstays H2SO4. Formed in Kent back in the late 90s, the act — Graham Cupples (keys, programming), Darren Till (keys, programming) and James Butler (vocals, bass) — features a collection of accomplished musicians: Cupples previously led techno acts Mortal and Code. Till played with…

[rudnitskaia]

This note was supposed to appear in a Christmas fanfic, but after @acesandocs sent me an ask about RoMaunce "Who leaves little notes in the other’s one lunch? (Bonus: what does it usually say?)" with an art request, I made a decision to post both the fic and the note much earlier. The fic is under the cut, enjoy the Christmas spirit in the middle of summer. :D

Bonus: the fic also tells the story of The Most Ridiculous Scarf's creation. x))

The Winter Wonder

Working until the last client was an awful practice.

Mau couldn't remember when she had gotten a good night's sleep. Hiding behind the storefront window, she rested her head on her hands folded on the counter and tried her best to keep from falling into slumber. She might have fallen asleep for real if it hadn't been for the cheerful music that was playing from the radio.

“Let's not disturb Miss Maura,” a cheerful whisper sounded barely audible next to Mau. A few coins tinkled quietly as they fell onto the counter, and two visitors headed for the exit.

She didn't instantly realize what was happening, and raised her head too late. Before the front door slammed shut, all she could see was Rocky wrapping a threadbare blue scarf around his neck with one hand, and gently pushing his cousin toward the street with the other.

The two young men who frequented the eatery, and who were different from most of the visitors, were constantly drawing a lot of suspicious stares. When Rocky had first brought his redheaded cousin to the place a few months ago, it had been noon on a workday, and the workmen who lunched at the eatery had become strangely quiet when the two young men had taken the only available table near the exit. Until that day, Rocky had always sat at that table for some reason, but every time he had been lucky enough to come to the eatery when there were few or no other guests. On his first visit with Calvin, though, it was as if he had deliberately chosen the busiest time of day. Like he wanted them to be noticed. But Rocky had guessed, apparently, that they had attracted too much attention, and since then, alone or with his cousin, he had shown up at the eatery either when honest people were busy working or at closing time, when honest people were getting ready for bed.

Such was the case to-day.

“And the following composition will immerse you…”

With a click of the switch on the radio panel the main room fell into silence. Despite the approaching Christmas, Mau was in a horrible mood, and even with all her love of music, she had no desire to listen to another sickeningly festive song. It was a cloudy, unusually snowy day in St. Louis, and Mau was apparently infected by its grayness, so even her usual chores were draining. Mau's father and the owner of the eatery, Mister Augusto Venza, had been away for a couple of weeks in Chicago on extremely urgent business, so Maura had to serve the clients alone and, moreover, had to meet 1928 all by herself. Though she was rather glad of the latter.

There will be no fuss.

Slowly, one by one, Mau counted the coins that Calvin and Rocky had left as payment for the coffee, and was surprised to find a piece of paper folded several times next to them. Unfolding it, Mau saw some amusing, almost childish, drawings in red crayon. On the first one, she herself was sleeping with a terribly sullen expression in a daisy field under a big, angry raincloud. In the second, Rocky held a sheep, which resembled a cloud of cotton candy and was eagerly munching on that raincloud, above his head, while the cartoonish Mau was already smiling. Next to these sketches was a wry caption:

“Don't be sour! Let sweet dreams eat all the bitter thoughts. R.”

Chuckling, Mau shook her head. She scrutinized the drawing for another minute or so, then sat down on the floor behind the counter and pulled one of the wooden baseboards towards herself.

“Come on, stop being stubborn…”

Finally, the baseboard gave way, revealing a narrow gap at the bottom of the counter that Mau used as a stash for part of her tips. She folded the sheet tighter and put it with the notes Rocky had sometimes left on his previous visits.

The front door suddenly swung open, letting cold air into the room. Mau's heart leapt, and she hastily pushed the wooden flap against the gap, then hastily stood up from the floor and shook off her knees.

“What is it, my dear? Are the spoons running away from you again?” the old Missis Bruno creaked in Italian.

“A keen eye you have,” Mau answered her also in Italian and added: “The usual for you?”

The woman nodded and headed for the far table. As she looked at her, Mau noticed the bright green knitted scarf under her coat and walked to the kitchen to serve Missis Bruno her favorite cheese ravioli.

“You have such a lovely scarf,” she said as she passed by. “Where did you get it?”

“Knitted it myself,” the woman's eyes flashed with pride. “There's some wonderful yarn at Scaffidi's now.”

“You're such a talented needlewoman,” Mau said, putting the pot on the stove. “I can't knit at all.”

The eatery became awkwardly quiet for a moment. Maura's revelation made Missis Bruno squirm uncomfortably in her chair. The mere thought that a woman of Mau’s age could not knit not only disturbed her, but appalled her. From the kitchen, Mau couldn't hear the old woman muttering worryingly to herself:

“Poor girl, there was no one to teach her…”

But even that wasn't enough of an excuse for her. She had friends, neighbors, and yet Maura Venza, at the age of twenty-two, could not knit! It's not a long way to ruin one's fate, thought Missis Bruno, nervously rubbing her napkin in her fingers. No, she could not let it go! A little while later, she said loudly:

“This is just unacceptable. What's your father thinking about? Certainly not that his daughter is so mature and can't knit. That's embarrassing,” her tone changed from condemning to admonishing. “Tell you what, Mau, honey, I'll teach you how to knit. It's easy, you'll see. Mama left you needles and yarn, didn't she?”

“I don't think so. Even if she did, it remained in Kansas City,” Mau lied habitually, barely containing a grin. She was amused at Missis Bruno's attitude toward such things. No wonder, though; things had been different when she had been young. Mau couldn't prove to her that knitting wasn't a required skill now.

“Not good. Not good at all,” the old woman continued to wail. “Back in my days…”

Mau sincerely hoped Missis Bruno hadn't heard the low chuckle that escaped her lips. She pulled a small bag out of the freezer. Knitting. Well now! There was a book she couldn’t finish for more than a month, and today there were mountains of plates, cups, and baking pans to wash. What knitting to think of.

Listening to Missis Bruno half-heartedly, Mau soon put a steaming plate of cheese ravioli with pesto in front of the old lady and returned to the counter. With the toe of her shoe, she again tried to discreetly slide a piece of baseboard back into the gap.

“…and then on Christmas Day…” Missis Bruno persisted. The wooden part wasn't falling into place. Mau frowned and mentally cursed. Why had she even opened the stash in the middle of the day?

Oh, yes, Rocky. Rocky and his funny drawing.

…and his old worn-out scarf.

Mau looked outside the window, watching the snowflakes fall slowly. She rarely got a chance to go outside, but Rocky, given his very specific occupation, had to be out in the cold a lot. And sleeping in the car in this weather must have been uncomfortable, too… it wouldn't take long to get sick. The mere thought of that made Maura uneasy. She pictured him huddled under his coat and a thin, shabby blanket, huddled in the back seat of the car, and she clenched the side of the counter tighter. He had been taking time out of his day for so many months now to come to her and just cheer her up with something: a humorous story, a funny trinket, or a little candy. As if whenever by any means he could find a little bit of warmth somewhere, he had always rushed to share it with her. And now, more than ever, she felt the desire to return that warmth to him a hundredfold. Slipping the teaspoon to the floor, Mau ducked under the counter and pulled back the flap of the stash.

“You know, Missis Bruno… I think you're right. I really should learn to knit. Could I ask you to lend me needles until my father returns and show me how to do it?”

“Of course,” the woman said enthusiastically, obviously pleased that her story had piqued Maura's interest. “Maybe you want to make something specific?”

“A scarf,” Mau answered without hesitation.

“Oh, a scarf is quite simple,” the woman squinted her eyes, smiling broadly. “With my advices, you’ll do it in two evenings. It's the dresses that require all sorts of tricks, but this…”

After a moment, Mau sat down in the chair opposite Missis Bruno and handed her a few crumpled bills. All her tips from the last couple months.

“Good. Can you buy a couple skeins of good yarn for me, please?”

Two evenings was easy to say! A week had passed before Mau could manage to do anything right at all. And Christmas was the day after tomorrow! So little, so little time… Mau yawned. She could hardly keep her eyes open, and therefore even had stopped watching whether the rows of stitches were knitted straight or not. She finished her work only in the morning, and fell asleep, holding her knitting in hands, with the needles dangerously close to her eyes.

And overslept.

In the morning, after freshening herself up, she hastily stuffed the scarf into a bundle of paper and rushed to the eatery. She spent the whole day in anticipation, hoping Rocky would come, and every time the bell over the door jingled, her heart jumped in her chest. Until finally the young man appeared on the doorstep, shaking off the snow from himself.

“Today is on the house, in celebration of Christmas,” she told him, setting coffee and a plate of chocolate pancakes with raspberry jam, garnished with three raspberries and sprinkled with powdered sugar, in front of him. And while Rocky, as if being hypnotized, stared at this gorgeousness and tried to guess if the berries were purposefully arranged in a heart-shaped pattern or not, she shoved the bundle into the pocket of his coat, which hung on the clothes rack behind him.

When Rocky walked out of the Venza family's eatery that evening, he couldn't stop smiling dreamily. He passed by the lamppost, dancing around it, and laughed softly, putting hands into his pockets. To think that Mau had baked pancakes just for him, and damn, what pancakes they were! But… what in the world was that?

He stared in puzzlement at the slanted bundle, and immediately opened it.

Seeing… a scarf.

Or rather, it looked like a scarf, except… the blue stitches wiggled from side to side, the crookedly sewn buttons reminded two eyes, and what should have been white trim on both ends looked more like jagged teeth. If it was a scarf, it was the most ridiculous scarf he had ever seen.

“How did you knit to me, buddy?” Rocky murmured, twirling the knitted mess in his hands. But there was no clue neither on the scarf nor in the paper shreds of the wrapper. Frowning, Rocky looked over his shoulder at the eatery and bit his lip.

Could it be that it was made by Mau?

There was certainly a chance that someone had put the bundle in his coat by accident, but somehow Rocky felt like there was no mistake. It was definitely a present. A self-made Christmas present. From Mau. For him! Rocky straightened the scarf and lifted it as high above his head as his arms could reach, looking at it like at an absolute miracle. The scarf, swaying in the wind, stared up at him with its button eyes and its crooked, white-toothed grin. And Rocky, as he continued his way toward the Little Daisy, smiled broadly back at it.

“Zib, please have mercy,” he kept whimpering, clutching at the man's pant leg. Zib made another attempt to make a step, but after dragging Rocky across the stage floor a little more, he gave up again.

“Kid,” Zib sighed, “if you don't let me go, I'm just going to sit on you.”

“Oh, please! I'll even be your personal horse, taking you out to the audience every night, right under the spotlight…”

Zib gave him a confused look and snorted nervously.

“No, I think I'll pass, thank you.”

“It's a matter of life and death, Zib! What can I do to get you to say yes? I'd do anything. Give anything. Literally. Even my eye teeth.”

“Why on earth are you so damn eager?” The man flailed his arms up. Rocky pulled himself closer to Zibowski's legs, squeezing them like a vise.

“It's just Christmas. I can't resist the urge to do good deeds. What a stale dry man wouldn't be heartbroken at a picture like this? Just imagine: a poor, unfortunate soul burning with a passion for music, but locked in a prison of pots and pans… as the servants of Euterpe, it is our duty to rectify such injustices! Even if only once a year.”

Zib groaned doomedly. He looked down at Rocky tiredly, then up at the ceiling, then back at Rocky, whose blue eyes stared back at him, not even with a plead, but with an almost childlike hope.

“I'm going to regret this…” he muttered, sighing heavily.

The next bright, frosty morning, Mau went down to the eatery and began her routine. She wiped off the dust, pulled open the curtains, opened the window vent, turned on the stove and set a batch of muffins to bake, began to prepare the batter for tomorrow as usual, and then…

…heard the music.

From the street, very close by, came a jaunty jazz tune, accompanied by the singing of several male voices. Mystified, Mau rubbed her hand over the fogged glass of the window and looked outside… no, it couldn't be. She ran out onto the porch and, still not believing her eyes, stared at the whole orchestra on the sidewalk in front of the eatery. When Rocky noticed her, he stepped forward and twirled around himself, playing his violin with an unusually wide smile. Looking at him, Mau laughed warmly and outlined the musicians with her hands, as if silently asking: How? How is this possible? Rocky only fleetingly lowered his gaze, paying her attention to his new scarf, and then winked at her, continuing his improvised dance with the violin.

It was a real wonder.

Soon the music and singing subsided, and Maura, still grinning happily, loudly applauded.

“Bravi! Bravi! Oh, but please hurry inside, I don’t want you all to catch cold! Come on!”

Zib's band could barely fit into the cramped space of the eatery, but that only made the atmosphere more welcoming. When Rocky cheerfully introduced Mau to all the musicians, whose names immediately mixed in her head, she brought out cinnamon coffee for each of them and a vase of ginger cookies to bite until the cupcakes were ready.

“Mind if I smoke?” Zib asked, making himself comfortable in the old chair. Mau shook her head, locking the door. No, there will be no working until the last client today. Today will be only the celebration.

“How could I say no after such an amazing concert? How did you all even sign up for this?”

Zib chuckled, giving Rocky a sly look.

“Well, let's just say he's got a long way to work it off.”

“Oh, it was worth it,” the young man shrugged nonchalantly.

Following the cozy Christmas aromas, the tiny room was filled with stories from Zib's band's past, music and laughter. Mau couldn't remember when she had felt so alive, so it was like a dream. Such a sweet, sweet dream. In her mind, she went back to those distant noisy evenings in New York, when every holiday she and her father celebrated in the large company of the Riva family. When there was no fear or anxiety, when there was warmth and hope in everything. Mau's gaze lingered on Rocky. She didn't understand how he, with all his troubles and hardships, every time managed to do the impossible: even if only for a short period of time, but to bring her back that long-lost hope. But it was then, on that sunny Christmas Eve, when she finally heard in herself undeniably loudly: I love you.

After more than one hour and more than one cup of coffee, after a series of stories and a particularly noisy argument, Sy climbed up on the counter and began to dance and juggle apples to the lively rhythmic clapping…

When suddenly, dumbfounded, with a key in his hand, Augusto Venza appeared on the doorstep.

[undergroundrockpress]

Atlanta International Pop Festival, July 4–5, 1969.

Lineup :

Blood, Sweat & Tears / Booker T. & the M.G.'s / The Butterfield Blues Band / Canned Heat / Chicago Transit Authority / Joe Cocker / Creedence Clearwater Revival / The Dave Brubeck Trio w/ Gerry Mulligan / Delaney and Bonnie and Friends / Grand Funk Railroad / Ian & Sylvia / Tommy James and the Shondells / Janis Joplin / Al Kooper / Led Zeppelin / Pacific Gas & Electric / Johnny Rivers / Spirit / The Staple Singers / Sweetwater / Ten Wheel Drive / Johnny Winter.

[instantcaramel]

A month ago I went to Amsterdam and visited all the filming locations for Ted Lasso‘s „Sunflowers“, so I figured I‘ll finally put something together here.

First of all, basically all the scenes involving the majority of the Richmond himbos were not shot on location - their epic discussion followed by pillow fight was filmed in an abandoned hotel in London. (Info per David Elsendoorn). The same would go for Ted & Beard‘s room. Scenes on the bus or outside it were also filmed in Richmond.

The only Greyhound who doesn‘t have his own larger plotline in the episode who was actually in Amsterdam was David Elsendoorn, because they did film the first scenes at Johan Cruijff (you know how to pronounce it now!) ArenA, the home of Ajax Amsterdam (which is also the one place I didn‘t have time to visit). They could have easily filmed that in London in a different stadium but I guess they didn‘t want to pass up the opportunity - and give David something to do on his home turf.

Edit: I visited 3 months later, so here‘s some pics from the ArenA, I couldn‘t find out which hallway they used/dressed up for the press interviews, but here‘s some shots from the stadium and the VIP lounge we see at the beginning.

So, first up is Roy & Jamie‘s adventure: Jamie takes him sightseeing against his will, and the first place they stop on is Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge). (They run up the street to that before.)

Edit thanks to @warriorhoneybee: Roy grabs Jamie’s wrist at Diamond Factory on Rokin and then tells him he can‘t ride a bike outside Lyppens Jeweler at Langebruugsteg.

They go around the corner to Oude Turfmarkt (which is what I took a picture of) for Jamie to teach him how. For Grandad!!!

The fucking windmill they see before they lovingly gaze into each other’s eyes is De Riekermolen at the Southern end of Amstelpark, where they also cycle. (It‘s actually realistic for them to do that, it would be about half an hour between those locations by bike).

Rebecca doesn‘t see the obvious bike lane (that doesn‘t actually exist there) and falls into the gracht at Raamgracht. Boaty McBoatface‘s houseboat is still there, they just had it dressed up a bit with plants and such when they filmed. (Unclear if anyone currently lives there). The interiors were shot in a studio.

Trent follows Colin to Prik night club (which was absolutely buzzing when I was there, I really want to go back).

And then they sit at the Homomonument, the Pink Triangle memorial at Westerkerk, having that tearjerker of a conversation, before returning to party. (It walked that distance at night, it‘s a beautiful stroll and less than 10 minutes). When I visited someone had left sunflowers. 🌻

Leslie & Will first go to Hotel Prins Hendrik in the Red Light district (and steps away from Amsterdam main station) where Chet Baker died. They then make their way to Jazz Café Alto, which is just down the road from where Boom Chicago used to be on Leidseplein. (It‘s about 30 mins on foot between those two locations so they could have walked or just taken the tram for a few stops. The interiors were done at a studio though).

Ted of course visits the studio-filmed fictional themed restaurant where he has a BBQ sauce induced, Corey Burton-narrated epiphany about triangles, but first he sees Vincent‘s „Sunflowers“ at Van Gogh Museum during Museumnacht (which btw would mean the episode is set first weekend of November). As you can tell they moved some things around, so at least currently the painting isn‘t hung on that beautiful blue wall anymore.

As a bonus, here is a picture of where Boom Chicago used to be when Jason Sudeikis, Brendan Hunt and Joe Kelly performed there - Brendan also used to live above the McDonald‘s on Leidseplein just steps away for a while. And the other picture is the current Boom Chicago on Rozengracht, definitely go enjoy a show there if you can.

Anyway thus concludeth my trip around Ted Lasso‘s Amsterdam. I visited for the Boom Chicago Comedy Festival and fell in love with the city, it was … magical / gezellig. I will never forget it, but then again, some people get Alzheimer’s.

[strangermarvelss]

i'll be home for christmas- e.m

Pairing: Rockstar!Eddie Munson x Female!Reader

Summary: touring around the holiday season, you’re worried you won’t get to spend christmas with your boyfriend

Warnings: angst, loneliness, holiday blues, rockstar!eddie being kinda a dick, cheesiness, fluffy end

Request?: No

Word Count: 3.6k

A/N: merry christmas to those who celebrate! i love this time of year (not as much as halloween, but its still cool) and wanted to share a lil angsty christmas fic for you all as a gift. enjoy :) -sava

Peaking through the curtain in your living room, you watch as snow falls from the night sky, coating the ground outside your home. It wasn’t unusual for snow to occur around Christmas in Indiana, as you’ve grown quite fond of waking of to a fresh sheet of powdery snow on your front lawn each Christmas you continue to spend in your hometown of Hawkins. 

The traditions throughout the town helped brighten your spirits each and every year. Watching the children line up to meet Santa at the Starcourt mall, driving through the downtown area and seeing it decked out in decor with festive lights and garland, and the annual tree lighting ceremony that occurs each and every year on December 1st, signifying the start of the Christmas season for the town as the citizens cheer amongst the crowd before rushing off to do their family traditions

This year, however, your spirits weren’t nearly at the same level as you’d been used to, which can happen to a person when they spend this time of year alone. Your boyfriend, Eddie, took off at the beginning of fall to start his first ever tour with his band, Corroded Coffin, all across North America. They released their album at the beginning of the year, having put so much time, effort, and money into finally recording their first full length album and sending it out into the world all of last year. But with his being away on tour, it meant a lot of loneliness your you.

Sure, you were happy for your boyfriend, you weren’t going to deny that. He was finally getting to live the dream he’s set out for years to accomplish, taking a step onto the big tour bus and not looking back as he starts his journey with fame. You also couldn’t deny the emptiness you felt in your heart at his absence, as this is the first time he’s been away from you for more than a week. The two of you had your own traditions to participate in, such has making cookies, watching your favorite holiday movies, and bopping along to some of his old tapes as you presents with one another in front of a cozy fire. Not being around him this time of year was sending you into a darker place than you’d like to be in.

With a sigh, you withdrawal from the window, closing the curtain and plopping down on the couch in front of your fireplace. You frown as you look at the festive decorations, his stocking in particular, which was decorated with the Hellfire logo he created all those years ago back as a freshman, and he even made your stocking to match, both pieces looking you right in the face and looking empty as ever. You look to the tree, seeing an array of presents scattered underneath, all addressed to Eddie or other family members you promised to see after the holiday.

Your family moved out of Hawkins a few years ago, tackling the suburbs of Chicago as they begun navigating the early stages of retirement. You missed them more than you initially thought you would, but you already had plans to go and visit them a few days after Christmas. Eddie’s uncle, Wayne, also moved out of Hawkins shortly after your run in with Vecna a few years back, having no where to live after the trailer was destroyed by what everyone thought was an earthquake. He only lived a few towns over now, still working away at the plant at night, but it just wasn’t the same with him not being just a short drive away anymore.

The only people you had left in Hawkins were Steve, Nancy, and Robin. Nancy and Robin moved back after college, with Nancy running the Hawkins Post and Robin running the band at the high school. Steve, he’s always been around, just like you and Eddie. Unable to escape the nostalgia that is littered throughout your small town. There might be some guilt mixed in there as well, feeling like you couldn’t leave anything behind with everything that’s happened. At least, that’s how you felt. Eddie? Not so much.

The sound of the phone ringing pulls you back, jumping off the couch and sprinting to the receiver. Taking the phone off the mount, you press it to your ear, excitement coursing through your veins at the idea of talking with Eddie.

“Hello?”

“There’s that beautiful voice I miss every night,” Eddie says into his phone. You can’t help the wide smile that stretches across your lips as you hear his beautifully low voice, giggling a little as you rest your body against the wall.

“How is the tour going? Where are you guys tonight, San Francisco?” You ask.

“No, we’re in Los Angeles, about to go on in a few hours. The tour is so fucking good, baby. The guys and I are having the time of our lives. Definitely going to miss it when it ends in a couple days.”

You pause for a moment, not sure you’re hearing him correctly. The tour originally was supposed to end tonight, leaving the guys to all fly back home in time to celebrate Christmas with their families. So you were confused as to why he would say a couple days from now that the tour was going to draw to a close.

“I’m sorry, I’m not sure I heard you correctly. What do you mean the tour is ending in a few days? I thought today was the last show?”

“Shit, I didn’t tell you?”

“Tell me what, Eds?”

“Our manager decided to extend it a few days. He decided to add a couple of shows on Christmas Eve and on Christmas Day for here in L.A and they sold out in an hour! A fucking hour, baby! Then we have a show in San Diego on the 26th, then a show in Phoenix on the 27th, Reno on the 28th, a day off, then two shows in Vegas on the 30th and 31st, with us ringing in the new year at the end of the set. It’s going to be the most metal performance in the world,” he explained to you.

You felt your heart slowly cracking as he rambled on, telling you about all the extra tour dates added until finishing it off with the news that you wouldn’t be seeing him until the next year. You wanted to be happy for him, with hearing the pure excitement in his voice and knowing he has the widest smile on his face as he tells you all about the tour, dimples and all. But that also had a cost. A cost of you being alone for the “most wonderful time of the year”.

“So you’re not coming home tomorrow?” You ask, sadness evident in your voice.

“I mean, that’s what I just said,” he tells you plainly. Letting out a sigh, you bite your lip, feeling it begin to tremble as the pricking feeling associated with tears starts jabbing away at the backs of your eyes.

“But we have our traditions…and we were supposed to go visit my family in Chicago on the 27th, together.” You say, trying your best to mask the hurt in your voice.

“Baby this tour has been the best thing that’s ever happened to me. To all of us guys. We finally got our dream. Why are you being so selfish?” He questions with an annoyed tone.

You take a moment, holding the phone away as you cover the speaker. Sniffling, you let a tear cascade down your cheek as your chest tightens with hurt and guilt. You knew you were being selfish, and part of you hated yourself for that. But you also felt like you had a reason to be, with not seeing the love of your life since the middle of September. And now saying the tour was the best thing to happen to him, when all you’ve heard within the years of your relationship was that you were the best thing to come from his time on Earth? It hurt, a lot.

“Y/N, did I lose you? Are you still there baby?” His muffled voice lets out through the tiny speaker in the phone. You let out a sigh, shaking out of your funk for a moment in an attempt to act like you were fine.

“Yeah Eds, I’m still here,” you squeak out. He lets out a sigh, mumbling incoherent words before sighing once more.

“I get that you’re upset, I do. But this is important to me. You know how long we’ve been waiting for this opportunity. How hard we’ve worked to get here.”

“Yeah, I get it. More important than spending time with your girlfriend,” you let out, anger bubbling up and beginning to replace the sadness that was consuming you.

“Y/N, stop it. The other guy’s girlfriend’s and boyfriend’s are being understanding. Why can’t you be the same way?”

“Well sue me for wanting to spend Christmas with the most important person in my life,” you grunt out, chest beginning to rise and fall rapidly

“Y/N, please-“

“Just don’t, Edward. I’ve gotta go, we have carolers knocking on the door,” you lie, an angry sigh passing through your parted lips. “Merry fucking Christmas.”

You waste no time hanging the phone back on the hook, burying your head in your hands and letting out a frustrated scream. Spending the holidays alone was something you always feared ever since your parents moved away. Never did you think you’d be experiencing this kind of feeling now, especially with how serious you were with Eddie. Talks of marriage on the horizon, putting that conversation off to the side when the band got word of the tour, which you were fine with. What you weren’t okay with was sulking about an empty house during this time of year.

You weren’t going to go down without a fight. You wouldn’t allow yourself to sulk until all the other possibilities were out the window. Picking the phone up once more, you dial the number to a person you’re sure will answer, hearing the line pick up after just a few rings.

“Harrington residence, Steve speaking.”

“Hey Steve! How is your holiday season going?” You ask, wrapping an arm around your stomach as you press your shoulder against the wall once more.

“Y/N! How the heck are ya? The holiday season is going good, just about to pack the last bit of things before my flight in the morning,” he tells you, making you frown slightly.

“Packing? W-where are you running off to?” 

“Denver. Tommy and I thought it’d be nice to rent a cabin and spend some time out there. What about you though? When do you and Eddie plan to make it to Chicago to see your folks?” He questions.

“Oh, uh, my flight isn’t until the 27th. I hope you have fun in Denver though!” You pause, taking a moment to let out a shaky breath. “Hey, you wouldn’t happen to know what Nancy and Robin are up to for the next few days, do you?”

“Oh yeah, the Wheelers are doing Christmas at Mike’s place in New York. Why do you ask?”

“Just want to be festive with the people I love, that’s all.”

“I think the Byers said they were staying in town this year, maybe you and Eddie can go celebrate with them?” Steve suggests. You feel your heart begin to crack more, a lump forming in your throat as you continue to cross more possibilities off your list.

“Joyce told me that they’re all spending Christmas in California this year. Enzo is going to meet up with them there and Hopper is really looking forward to it. Murray too. And um…Eddie won’t be in town for the holiday,” you finally reveal, voice growing smaller as your sentence progressed.

“Wait, what?! I thought he was flying home from tour tonight?” He asks, voice raised in shock.

“Yeah, he was supposed to. But his manager extended the tour a couple days. Won’t be back until after the new year,” you explain.

You twist the cord of the phone between your fingers as you kick your feet, the silence between the two of you deafening as you wait for him to process it all. You weren’t looking for sympathy when you called, that’s the last thing you want. Part of you just hoped there would be people willing to stick around the town you all call home to celebrate, but you understand that your loved ones had plans already set in stone. You weren’t going to be mad about that.

“So you’ll be all alone for Christmas?” Steve finally asks, his voice soft and tender.

“Sounds like it.”

“Y/N, I’m-“

“Nope, don't do that. It’s all good, really! Listen, I’m gonna get off of here so you can finish packing. Uh, have fun in Denver with Tommy, okay? Merry Christmas Steve,” you quickly rush out.

“Wait, I-“

Before he can finish, you press the button to end the call, but leave the phone off the hook as it dangles from the receiver, waving about by the cord, no longer in the mood to talk with anyone else for the remainder of the night. You press your back to the wall, slowly sliding down as you bring your knees to your chest, resting your tired head against them. Unsure of what else to really do, you sit there in along the lonely wall of your entryway, silently letting tears fall freely onto the material of your pants, darkening the denim blue jeans.

—————————————————————————————————————

Deciding not to feel sorry for yourself, you took off throughout the quiet town the next day, scurrying around for last minutes gifts and trinkets to place in the stockings and to gift to your friends and family members. Sure, it wouldn’t be as fun opening it tomorrow with you knowing exactly what was inside your stocking, but at least you had something to look forward to tomorrow morning instead of just waking up in a cold empty bed. 

The mall was quieter than usual on Christmas Eve, the occasional parent, mainly fathers of the young children of Hawkins, hurrying in and out of stores with arms filled to the brim with bags from different stores. It made you giggle as you thought back to Eddie’s shenanigans around this time of year, having to remind him each day that Christmas was approaching and deal with the panic of last minute shopping for others. A sweet memory that made this shopping trip a little less than thrilling, but you weren’t going to let it dampen your mood. 

The day carried on and you finally make it back to your home before the sun goes down, carrying the large bags of items through the door and being welcomed by quiet filling the walls of your house, the only sounds against your ears are the echoing of your feet against the hardwood floor. As determined as you were to not be sad today, the reminder of the loneliness you’d being ensuing until you left in a few days creeps up your spine, having pushed down the heavy feeling with distractions all day in an attempt to forget.

With a sigh, you set the bags down beside the door, walking towards the kitchen to pour yourself a glass of wine for the night. You were thankful that Family Video was still open when you finished your rounds at the mall, grabbing a few Christmas movies to keep you company as well as some holiday snacks to brighten your spirits. 

You turn on a dime when you heard the faint sound of movement coming from one of the other rooms close by. Optimistically, you believe it was one of the bags falling, but are quick to have that fantasy shut down when you hear muffles shuffling. Cautiously, you move yourself into the living room, feeling around for the light switch to fill the room with light. You flick the switch and nearly jump out of your skin when figures appear before you.

“Merry Christmas!” They shout, standing one by one and revealing themselves. Steve, Tommy, Robin, Nancy, Dustin, Lucas, Max, Mike, and the whole Byers/Hopper crew greet you one by one, making your smile grow wider than you’ve ever had it. Setting your glass down on a nearby end table, you bring your hands to cover your mouth as the shock still flows through your body, shaking your head and wanting to pinch yourself, silently hoping that this wasn’t some crazy dream you were having.

“I’m really starting to regret giving you that spare key, Steve. You guys scared the shit out of me,” you finally let out, extending your arms and enveloping Steve in a hug. He laughs, rubbing your back and pulling away. “I thought you and Tommy were going to Denver?”

“He lied to you, can you believe that?” Tommy pipes up, reaching out to give you a hug. You turn to Steve, watching him nod and holding his hands up in surrender.

“I’m sorry, but it was all part of this plan we helped set up,” Steve tells you. 

“And who can I blame for being the mastermind behind this whole plan, you?”

“Actually, you can blame the person waiting for you on your back porch,” he says, pointing out at the window. Turning, you go closer to the glass, seeing a figure standing there with their back turned away from the house, clad in dark clothing and long wavy hair flowing down his neck. You gasp, darting through the tiny crowd of people and rushing to your back door, closing it in a rush.

He turns to you, a smile lighting up his face as his eyes land on yours. Eddie reaches out for you, waiting for you to collide with his body. Running to him, you wrap your arms around his neck, squeezing him and wrapping yourself around his figure. He holds you close, taking in your scent and sighing in relief as he basks in the feeling of your body against his after many months away.

Pulling away, you can’t help but think back to the phone call the two of you had last night, words exchanged between you both that you now each of you regrets, and also meant all at the same time, given the circumstances. Your face contorts, sending him an angry look at you quickly rid his hands off your body, crossing your arms as you look to him.

“I thought they were extending your tour?” You ask, quirking a brow.

“I had to make up an excuse for this plan to work out, so I lied and said the tour got extended. And I just want to start off by apologizing for the things I said on the phone last night. I know it upset you, and I took things too far-“

“Too far? Eddie you called me selfish because I wanted to spend Christmas with you after not seeing you for months! We’ve never been away from one another for that long, and hearing it was going to be even longer hurt really bad,” you interrupt. He shoots you an empathetic look, reaching out to hold you. You take a step back, determined to stand your ground on the matter. "Not to mention thinking I was going to be all by myself today and tomorrow really upset me. You know that I've had that worry in the back of my head ever since my parents moved."

“Right, and you have every right to be upset with me. But that doesn’t mean I don’t want you to have the best Christmas ever, and I’m going to make it up to you, I promise. You know I love you, right?” He says, stalking closer to you with ever word, until he’s close enough to plant a kiss to your forehead. 

You can’t help the giggle that comes out of your mouth, finally breaking down and reaching out to take his hand. You press your lips to his cheek, rubbing the back of his hand with your thumb. He brings a hand up to your cheek, holding you close before closing the gap once more, this time pressing his soft and plump pink lips to yours. 

Pulling away, he can’t help but keep his eyes on yours, the deep chocolate irises focussed on you with so much admiration. “I would never let you spend Christmas alone, sweetheart. We have traditions to participate in!”

“I know! I got a bunch of Christmas movies at Family Video we can watch together after everyone leaves. And ingredients to make cookies too,” you exclaim, excitement filling your system. Eddie can’t help but laugh at your giddiness, those beautiful dimples poking into the sides of his cheeks as he reaches out to plant another kiss to your forehead.

“That sounds like an amazing plan baby. I can’t wait,” he says, sliding his ring clad hand down your arm and locking fingers with yours.

“I even got us matching pajamas, because I know how much you love them. Consider that part of your effort to making me feel better,” you tease, turning on your heel and leading him inside. All Eddie can do is chuckle, his smile wide as he retreats back to the warm air flowing through his home, surrounded by his favorite people in the entire world, especially the love of his life, who was now just an arms length away.

Because all he can think about is how your face is going to light up when you open up your presents tomorrow, a gorgeous diamond ring waiting underneath the tree just for you.

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tagging @myobmaya because she's special