#claire is a nurse shark

[crumb-crumblet-s-crumbington]

somewhere in the deep blue sea

[aestheticaltcow]

Double Trouble

Richard "Richie" Jerimovich x Reader

MDNI 18+

Double the trouble but twice the joy. Thank you, God, for giving me a twin.

Do you ever have one of those stupid ideas that sticks in your brain even though it feels kinda stupid? Yea... that's what this was.

Next Part

The Bear Masterlist

Richie walked into The Bear that morning sweating through his suit. He’d been able to avoid Carmy the last few days, claiming he needed some personal time to ‘get some shit done,’ but the reality was he was waiting for the dark purple mark bruise on his neck to dissipate.

Richie had never been the ‘hook up’ type, but being divorced for a year and a half with practically no action makes a guy think. He didn’t plan on hooking up with a random girl he matched with on Tinder or some other dating site. He had his eyes set on asking the cute new checker at the grocery store out on a date that hopefully would end at her place, but that plan went to shit at Marcus’s birthday party last weekend. 

~

Carmy had been dating this woman, Sierra, for a few months. She was a very kind, empathetic pediatric nurse who ironically worked at the same hospital Claire worked at. One could say Carmy has a type. She was stunning. Large brown eyes with hints of a golden undertone, a button nose complemented by a dainty silver ring, plush lips, and high cheekbones. She had a half sleeve made up of different flowers and some kind of shark that Richie could never remember the name of; he didn’t know how Carmy had convinced her to date him.

It was Marcus’s first birthday after his Mom had passed. Syd took it upon herself—with some help from Chester—to throw him a true college-style buck wild rager. Natalie and Pete volunteered to host it at their house since everyone else at The Bear couldn’t accommodate a party quite that large in their apartments. Richie laughed when Syd described what she’d planned: multiple kegs, beer pong…, and the list went on.

He found it endearing how much preparation she’d put into planning this party and expected it would be a fun night. He didn’t expect what happened about halfway through the party.

Richie was buzzed but found his way to the kitchen where he saw Sierra sitting on the counter, Carmy nowhere in sight. She looked upset, and Richie, being the gentleman, asked her if she was okay. Through teary eyes, she shook her head and put her arms out to the man, expecting a hug or some other kind of comfort from him. Once again, being the gentleman, he comforted the young woman and offered to kick Carmy’s ass if he did or said something that may have hurt her feelings. Sierra laughed and squeezed him tighter- the two had hugged before, but this felt different from the others. 

Sierra's lips crashed onto his as Richie pulled away from the hug. Maybe it was because he was buzzed, maybe it was because he’s a scumbag, he kissed her back. As he pushed his tongue into her mouth, he swore he heard someone come into the kitchen and opted to end the kiss there. 

There was no one there. Richie tried to walk away, saying something about this never happening and how they should keep it between them. Sierra shook her head and hopped off the counter, closing the space Richie had made between the two of them. When her hand floated over his crotch, she purred, “It’s been so long since a real man has fucked me… why don’t we find somewhere we could have some privacy?”

As the words left her lips, Richie was done for. It had been a long time since a woman- especially one as pretty as Sierra had touched him or practically begged him to fuck them; he was putty in her hand. Richie led her toward the basement and quickly looked around, ensuring everyone was preoccupied. He felt exhilarated. It was like he was a teenager again, sneaking away to make out with Tiff. The nostalgic excitement was enough to erase Carmy from his mind temporarily. 

When the two were alone in the basement, Sierra pounced on him. As their lips touched, she pushed her tongue into his mouth, fighting him for dominance. Her hands went to his belt. Richie grabbed her wrists and told her there was plenty of time for that; he was not submissive, and today wasn’t going to be the day he’d experiment with it. He released her wrists and moved to pull the top of her tank top down to expose her breasts. As Richie attached his lips to the soft, delicious, newly exposed skin, she managed to undo his belt. She’d always get her way. When her hand enveloped his cock, he could’ve cum then and there.

Sierra worked her hand up and down his growing erection as Richie bit and suckled on each of her nipples, earning soft groans and mumbles of ‘right there’ from her. Enough had been enough; both adults were sick of foreplay and knew they had to go for it to avoid being caught. 

Richie pushed her up against the wall of Natalie and Pete’s half-finished basement and ripped Sierra’s shorts down her legs. He shoved her panties to the side and penetrated her velvety lips. Richie groaned when he felt just how wet she’d gotten from what they’d been doing. ‘Fuck me, Daddy- I need your cock!’ 

The sound of skin slapping skin and loud moans filled the basement as Richie thrust up into her tight succulent pussy. Any worries from before had left his mind as Sierra moaned into his ear, begging him to cum inside of her. When her teeth sunk into his neck, he felt her walls sucking him deeper inside of her. Richie grunted as he adjusted his grip on her thighs; Sierra threw her head back as she came around him. The gush of her fluids was enough to make him bust.

Richie woke up the next morning with a pounding headache and little memory of the events of the night before. When he looked in the mirror and saw the hickey adorning his neck, it hit him like a freight train. He took a step back and began processing what had happened; he had sex… with Carmy’s girlfriend. In a slight panic, he ran into his bedroom and grabbed his phone from his bedside table. He quickly sent a text to the ‘manager’ group chat to let Syd, Natalie, and Carmy know he wasn’t coming in for the next couple of days, claiming he needed to use his personal time. After a confirmation text from Natalie, he put his phone on Do Not Disturb and fell back on his bed. Maybe he was a loser after all.

~

Richie quickly walked through the kitchen, managing to avoid Carmy, who had been doing inventory and subsequently had his back turned. He sat at a table and pressed his forefinger and thumb into the bridge of his nose. How was he supposed to amp up the waitstaff that night when he felt like this? 

“Hey, Richie- you good?” Syd’s causal question turned serious when she saw Richie’s body language. He shook his head, “Do you want to talk about it?” Syd cautiously asked, sitting across from him at the table. 

“Nah- it’s nothin'. Don’t stress it.” Richie grumbled as he pushed himself up from the table. He went toward the kitchen, ignoring Syd’s calls as he busted through the swinging doors. “Where’s Carmy?” he announced to the prep staff, and one of the new line cooks gestured over to the office door. 

Richie took a deep breath and knocked on the closed door before checking to see if it was locked. It took a moment for Carmy to say anything; the lock clicked, and the door swung open. Carmy stood in the doorway, cheeks flushed more than usual. Richie looked over Carmy’s shoulder to see Sierra sitting on the beat-up loveseat, adjusting her scrub top. She smiled in his direction, causing Richie to go pale. “You good cousin?” Carmy queered, getting Richie’s attention.

He shook his head, “I’m good- I’ll talk to you later.” 

~

Guilt was eating Richie alive- he couldn’t sleep or eat, and everyone noticed. Tiffany was the one to question what had been going on. 

“You’re not okay. What’s wrong?” she asked bluntly as the two sat on a bench at the playground, watching Eva play on the jungle gym with one of her friends. “Nothin’.” Richie attempted to bluff, but Tiffany saw through it. “Richard.” she challenged. Richie sighed. “I did somethin’ really stupid, Tiff.”

After confessing to Tiffany about what had happened at Marcus’s party, he felt ready to confess what happened with Sierra to Carmy. Richie was nervously scratching the back of his neck as he waited outside Carmy’s door. He’d knocked just moments ago, but it felt like hours. 

With messy curls and a flushed face, Carmy opened the door. Confusion plastered his face, “What’re you doin’ here?” he queried. Richie swallowed, “Can I talk to ya?”

“Uh, sure…” Carmy stepped aside and allowed Richie into his apartment. Sierra sat on the couch with a blanket over her lap. There was some Danish cooking show on the TV. The two had clearly not been watching the show, and Richie felt another wave of guilt crash over him. “Are you okay, Rich?” Carmy questioned, concern filling his voice as his eyebrows knit together. 

Richie shook his head, “I don’t fuckin’ know why Sierra hasn’t said shit, but we uh- hooked up at Marcus’s birthday party.”

“What the fuck! Ew!” Sierra yelled from the couch, “I would NEVER fuck you Richie.”

“That’s not what you fuckin’ said on Saturday!” Richie yelled accusatory back at Sierra. She rolled her eyes and stood up, revealing her lacy underwear to the two men. “Carmy and I left at like 11 and I was with him the entire time. When would I have had the time to fuck you, Richie?!” she yelled, stepping closer to Richie.

“You were in the kitchen upset about somethin’. I asked if you wanted me to kick Carmy’s ass, then you kissed me and went off on some ‘haven’t fucked a real man’ bullshit.” Richie clarified. He was angry at himself for sleeping with Carmy’s girlfriend, and now she stood there lying to the two of them. Richie watched Seirra’s face contort in frustration, “That didn’t happen, Richie!” 

“Yes! Yes, it fuckin did! Sierra, what the fuck!” Richie groaned. The two were ready to rip each other’s throats out when Carmy broke the tension with his laughter, “Did Y/N go to the party, Si?” he managed to get out between laughs. The realization on Sierra’s face was comical, “I’m gonna kill her, Carmen.” Sierra shook her head as she stomped her way back to Carmy’s bedroom. Richie shot him a confused look, “Sierra has a sister… identical twin sister- Y/N.”

[elizabethxmonroe]

Elizabeth Claire Monroe, 35 years old. Born and raised in New Bellevoux, Louisiana. Totally in love with her fiance Jordan. Momma to Jake and dog mom to Bondi and Rio. Little sister to Tristan and big sister to Teagan and Elliot. Lover of all things Cajun. Tracy Spiridakos

About Me || Timeline || Connections || + Navigate

BASICS:

FULL NAME:  Elizabeth Claire Monroe

NICKNAMES:  Elle, Ellie

GENDER:  cis female.

PRONOUNS:  she/her.

SEXUALITY:  Heterosexual

RELATIONSHIP STATUS: Engaged

AGE: 35

DATE OF BIRTH:  July 20, 1988

ZODIAC SIGN:  Cancer

OCCUPATION:  Detective

APPEARANCE:

FACECLAIM: Tracy Spiridakos

HEIGHT:  5'6".

BUILD:  slim & petite.

HAIR:  blonde

PIERCINGS & TATTOOS: single ear lob piercing on each ear, no tattoos

OTHER DISTINGUISHING FEATURES:  none

STYLE: smart, preppy, stylish

PERSONALITY:

LIKES:  painting, photography, dogs, helping others, traveling, sunsets, the beach, running

DISLIKES:  Ignorance, bugs, traffic, people who cheat

FEARS:  sharks

HOBBIES:  photography, running

PET PEEVES:  loud chewers

Elizabeth Claire Monroe was born to hardworking parents, George and Anita. George comes from a long line of law enforcement, becoming a detective himself. Anita, was a nurse. 

Ellie joined # of older siblings and when she was #, her younger siblings were born. The # children were close and Ellie, who was a rough and tumble kid, learned to hold her own. Her father was a detective and her mother was a nurse, so they both worked late and the kids learned to cook and help out early on.

From a young age, Ellie always loved puzzles and mysteries, in addition to playing dress up and taking ballet. Though ballet was short lived when she stuck up for herself and a friend from someone who was teasing them. 

Always the helper, Ellie knew she wanted to follow in her father's footsteps, helping to solve crime and make New Bellevoux safe. In fact, she would be following a long line of Monroe family members into law enforcement. Her great-grandfather had been one of the detectives working the Heywood and Ashburn case. To this day, the case is still talked about in her family.

Earning top honors in school, she was not a cheerleader nor was she part of the popular crowd. However she did maintain a nice size friend group and still has those friends to this day. She wasn’t necessarily popular but she wasn’t a loner either. 

After graduating from college with a degree in Criminal Justice, she joined the police academy and worked her way through the ranks until becoming a detective. 

Five years ago she met Jordan when he visited town for a case, they hit it off really well and started dating. Two years into their relationship, they welcome a baby boy, named after Jordan’s missing friend.

Today Ellie lives with Jordan, their son, and their two dogs. She is a detective and helps keep the town safe. She’s got deep roots in the community and wouldn’t have it any other way. 

[macchiatioo]

Something about growing up that people don't talk about is how certain people become frozen in time.

What do you mean my niece is about to graduate high school? What do you mean she has her license and a car and a job and a boyfriend? She's still 10 years old. She wears clothes from Justice and her favorite movie is Tangled and she likes gymnastics and singing and Minecraft. I love her.

What do you mean my nephew is almost eight years old? What do you mean? He's still five and I can still comfortably carry him. He still calls transfer trucks "meat trucks". He doesn't spend all day staring at a screen. He still refers to petting an animal as "softing" because I told him pet a dog softly. I love him.

What do you mean my mom is 60? She's still 40 and she's making me punch on a sunny day in autumn while I run around in my Halloween costume and the windows are open and the curtains are blowing. She's still 40 and and helping me make bed at summer camp with my Strawberry Shortcake comforter. I love her.

What do you mean my dad is 61? I'm still in a hospital room watching Bleach at midnight with him because there's no point in going to sleep when I know the nurse is going to wake me up to take my vitals. We're still playing in the hotel pool together. I love him.

What do you mean my cat is 16 years old? What do you mean he doesnt play much any more? We just got him as a kitten. He jumped and climbed on and scratched all the furniture. He would keep me up all night by jumping on my bed and walking all over me and attacking my feet and licking my hair. I love him.

My do you mean I said goodbye to my great uncle in a casket almost 4 years ago? We're still at my grandparents house playing Rock Band and Guitar Hero. He still brings his black lab, Buddy, over. He still rides his motorcycle. He still comes over for holidays. We're still grilling on the porch. We're still looking at the constellations. We're still hoping for snow. I love him.

What do you mean my old friend and classmate got murdered at 22? He's 8. He didn't become a jerk in middle school. It's October. I'm at his house for his birthday party. His mom is cutting the birthday cake too small. His dad hasn't died yet and is still pretending to be the hulk and is play wrestling with him. He's still on the basketball team. I love him.

What do you mean I stopped talking to my first best friend in middle school? We're still having a sleepover. Her mom made fudge. We're playing in an inflatable pool. We're at her grandmother's house watching shark week. She still wears horribly bright knee high sneakers and and suspenders and tutus from Claire's. Her eyeliner wings are huge and her mascara is clumpy. I love her.

What do you mean I don't talk to my cousins or my brothers anymore? I love them.

What do you mean I'm 22? What do you mean I graduated college? I'm 3, I'm 7, I'm 10, I'm 12, I'm 15, I'm 16, 17, 18, I'm, I'm, I'm. I wear pink frilly night gowns. I have a canopy bed. I pretend I'm asleep so I can be carried from the car. I'm in a hospital bed. I'm at grandma's house. I'm on the playground. I like the Jonas Brothers. I like One Direction. I like Barbie movies and Strawberry Shortcake and Care Bears and My Little Pony and Totally Spies and Winx Club and Hello Kitty and and and and. I'm watching my first horror movie. I'm by the pond under the willow tree. It's Christmas. It's Halloween. It's Easter. It's my birthday at the bowling alley and everyone showed up. It's my birthday at the park and no one showed up. I'm in high school and playing volleyball at lunch. It's my second year of college and I'm getting milkshakes and watching Big Brother with my roommates. I'm playing Smash Bros on the living room floor. I'm planning on breaking into area 51. I'm scared of the dark and too tall slides. I love her.

My love is an embalming fluid. My life is 10 or more dioramas and we're all glued to the floor. You didn't leave me and I didn't leave you. It's a book that I keep rereading. No one prepared me for a grief like this. You're all Eurydice and I keep looking back.

What do you mean?

I love you.

[softdadcarlos]

(You’re) Having My Baby

Masterlist

Fandom: Resident Evil/Biohazard

Pairing: Jill/Carlos

AU: Family Life

Summary: After a couple years of being happily married, Jill and Carlos are ready to grow their little family of two.

Requested by @vgames-lover​ and three anonymous users because yet again I combined requests! The title is taken from the song of the same name by Paul Anka and you’ll see why.

It was November 2003 and Jill had been suffering from a stomach bug for about week. She was a bit concerned, maybe the take out she had ordered - Carlos was out with Chris and Leon for Leon’s bachelor party - was bad as she had thrown up the next day and those following. Carlos, despite being slightly hungover, was there to hold her hair back as she muttered curses and promises never to order from that restaurant again. However, being very much under the weather meant she couldn’t go on the mission she was scheduled for and she counted her blessing that Claire’s bachelorette party had been the day before Leon’s. But Jill would not let some mystery illness stop her from attending her friends’ wedding, it would take much more than throwing up in the morning to stop her. Carlos, for his part, kept a close eye on her, understandably worried until he noticed something she murmured to herself while getting ready for the ceremony.

“Need to get new bras, these ones are starting to make my nipples hurt.”

Normally, those kinds of statements would be overlooked by someone who couldn’t put two and two together. But Carlos never overlooked anything when it came to Jill, it might have been a result of trauma but he felt the niggling urge to keep an eye on her, make sure she was safe and okay. So it was safe to say he was starting to piece together a picture and, if he was right about it, it was a picture he had wanted to paint for about a year at that point. He felt butterflies in his stomach at the thought of it.

He noticed her struggling to zip up her dress and went over to help, “You know, I think it might be worth picking up a pregnancy test on our way to the venue. We have been trying for a couple of months after all. We should also stay clear of alcohol today, just in case.”

Jill turned to him, a pensive look on her face, “You really think so?”

Carlos pushed a strand of hair behind her ear and gave her a reassuring smile, “Better safe than sorry.”

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Jill was impatient throughout the ceremony, wanting to get to the bathroom as soon as possible. She was happy for her friends, she really was, and it was sweet seeing Sherry be flower girl yet again, this time for her adoptive parents but after what Carlos had said earlier she just had to know. So as soon as the ceremony was over and it was time for the reception, Jill sped away into the bathroom with the pregnancy test in her over the shoulder bag. Carlos was not aware that she was rushing to take the test. No, the poor man was none the wiser and followed after her, worried that she was having another bout of sickness. His concern grew when she locked the bathroom door behind her. He sighed, leaning against the wall as he waited for her to come out. He was stood there for about 5 minutes before he heard the door unlock and Jill emerged.

He grasped her shoulders, worry in his eyes as he looked her over, “Are you okay?”

“I’m more than okay. Carlos, I’m pregnant,” She beamed at him, tears welling up.

Carlos pulled her into a hug, kissing the crown of her head, “Hello pregnant, I’m dad.”

“Seriously? You’re starting with the terrible fucking dad jokes now?” Jill groaned, nuzzling into his neck.

He shrugged, “I’m a dad now, it’s my job to make bad jokes that embarrass my family.”

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Although Carlos said that they both wouldn’t drink, Jill managed to convince him that he should be allowed to drink as they were now celebrating two things. She got a few looks from their friends as she turned away drinks because if there was something Jill never said no to, it was a free drink. Instead, she would either pass the offered drink to Carlos or sip on some sort of soft drink with an excuse of “I’m the designated driver.” But maybe she made a mistake passing drinks to him. Even though they agreed to stay quiet until the next day as not to detract attention away from the newlywed couple, there Carlos was, fucking serenading her.

“Having my baby. What a lovely way of saying how much you love me. Having my baby. What a lovely way of saying what you're thinking of me.” Carlos sang over the sound of the reception, on one knee, cradling her hand between his as their friends stared at them.

He was cut off before he could continue by Claire rushing over to envelope Jill in a hug, “Oh my god! Jill, you’re pregnant?! How long have you known?”

Jill’s face was red under all the attention, “Today… although I feel Carlos had an inkling sooner since he’s the one that suggested I buy a test this morning.”

“This is the best wedding gift! I’m going to be an auntie!”

The rest of the evening was filled with congratulations and getting Carlos to drink enough water to sober up slightly so he wouldn’t be as hungover in the morning. Chris helped to get Carlos home, insisting that since she was pregnant she shouldn’t be lugging her husband around. A husband that was now just speaking Spanish and making Jill very very thankful Chris only knew the basics of the language as Carlos was getting rather… colourful in verbally displaying his affection to his wife. Chris even opted to stay in their guest room as they had “much to talk about” the next morning.

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The following day saw Chris and Rebecca sat on one sofa as Jill and Carlos, who was nursing a slight hangover that wasn’t as bad as it could’ve been, sat on the opposite one. They hadn’t been expecting Rebecca to knock on their door at 10am but they weren’t entirely surprised since she had been the one to keep an eye on Jill’s health over the years.

“First things first, I’m going to state the obvious: You won’t be able to go on missions for about one year at the very least. Not only would it be dangerous for the baby for you to still go while pregnant, but pregnancy and birth itself is traumatic for the body. You’ll need time to recuperate afterwards. I recommend a two-year leave. Maybe longer depending on how quickly you get back into a fit state.” Rebecca declared sternly, eyeing up the coffee Jill had in front of her.

Chris crossed his arms, “We knew that already. I was planning to talk about her leave today and have her help me pick out a suitable temporary replacement for the meantime.”

Jill was about to take a sip of her coffee when Rebecca reached her hand out and covered the top of it.

“Sorry Jill, but it’s going to be decaf until after the post-birth recovery period.”

Carlos took the coffee from her and headed into the kitchen with it and his own.

Jill levelled Rebecca with a stare, “Decaf tastes like burnt toast.”

Carlos came back in with two glasses of orange juice, “It’s for the good of you and pequeño. But you won’t have to suffer a coffeeless world alone, whatever you’re not allowed, I won’t have either.”

Jill smiled at him as she accepted the offered juice, hand coming to rest on his knee once he was seated again.

“What else is there ‘Becca? What do I need to purge from the pantry.” Carlos asked, lacing his fingers with Jill’s.

Rebecca reached into her bag and pulled a document from its confines, “It’s all written here but I’ll give you a brief rundown. Unpasteurised or mould-ripened dairy products are a no go. Uncooked meats, liver, any and all pates and game meats are not to be eaten. Liver contains high amounts of Vitamin A which can be harmful to the baby. Raw and partially cooked eggs as well as: duck, goose or quail eggs are dangerous unless cooked solid, no runny eggs.” She flicked over to the next page, “Oily fish is to be limited to two portions a week. Tuna should be limited to 140g a week as it contains the most mercury than any other fish. Swordfish, marlin, shark meat and raw shellfish should be avoided. Sadly herbal teas should be limited to four cups a day if you were looking to them as a replacement for coffee. Fruits and vegetables must be thoroughly washed before eating or cooking. Oh and no multivitamin supplements as they can contain vitamin A. That should be about it.”

She handed the document to Jill who was frowning. Carlos had been nodding along the entire time, Jill could see the cogs working away in his head as he thought about what was currently in their kitchen cupboards.

“Is there anything that needs doing asap?” Jill asked.

“A simple urine test to see how far along you are, then we can try to predict a due date.”

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The due date they had been given was for mid-August and an ultrasound scan during the second trimester revealed they’d be having a baby girl. Carlos had reached out to Barry to help them set up a nursery as well as set up a birthing plan, a fount of knowledge thanks to being a father of two. One thing Jill hadn’t accounted for was Carlos becoming more protective than he had been before. He hardly let her in her office, saying that she might stress herself out and that wouldn’t be good for her or the baby. If she wanted to go out with the girls for a chill night, he would text her every half hour to make sure she was okay. She wasn’t mad, not at all. In fact, she completely understood his behaviour. It was just… a tad much sometimes. The bigger her stomach became the more anxious he became about her going out because “What if something happens and I can’t be there to help.”

So there Jill was, sat between her husband’s legs as she leant against him playing Animal Crossing (a game she had grown addicted to much to Carlos’ relief) on the GameCube he bought her as an apology for his worrying ways. She had started taking to wearing his clothes instead of the expensive maternity they had bought because she just found them more comfortable and comforting. Carlos wasn’t complaining, loving the sight of his rounded wife waddling about in his clothes. He had his arms resting around her front, hands pressed to her belly under his baggy shirt, feeling their pequeño’s little kicks. She was definitely going to be a fighter like her mum, that much Carlos could tell.

As it was August, Carlos had a hospital packed and ready to go as well as Barry on speed dial. They had decided on a hospital birth instead of a home birth just in case there were complications at Barry’s suggestion after all. Jill felt a little bad for the older former S.T.A.R.S member, Carlos had been picking his brains ever since they formally announced the pregnancy.

“Carlos playing this game makes me see why you were a communist. Slaving away to pay a raccoon who does nothing is insulting. Fucking Tom Nook-”

Carlos was chuckling until his wife cut herself off, “What is it?”

“...I think my water just broke…”

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Twelve laborious hours later and Eliza Anne Valentine was welcomed into the world. Sure Carlos’ hand hurt like a bitch but he wasn’t complaining if the small chubby baby in Jill’s arms was the end result. He smiled as he watched the scene. Jill was sweaty, her hair a mess as she tiredly greeted their child, stroking her small round cheeks.

“Hello there Eliza, I’m your mama. I’m going to make the world a safe place for you. I promise.” She looked to Carlos, unshed tears in her eyes, “Do you want to hold her?”

Carlos nodded unable to form words with how his throat tightened. Carefully, oh so carefully, they passed the small bundle of joy from one to the other. And upon seeing his daughter’s face, he started crying. She had his nose and her mother’s mouth. Her hair was dark but matted with embryonic fluids so there was no way of telling its actual colour in that moment. He wondered what colour eyes she’d have when she finally opens them. But no matter what traits she took, Carlos didn’t care. She was made from them and their love. She was going to be perfect in his eyes no matter what.

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A/N: To break your hearts further, the way Jill’s maternity leave works out means her first mission back is the one she “dies” in.

I love hearing from you guys! Please tell me what parts you liked!

Requests are temporarily closed. I'm also on twitter @mxbelmounte.

[heroes-trash]

visual recap of 1x01 - Genesis

name origin: the Book Genesis is generally known as the book of creation, the beginning of all things.

the introductionary episode, the one where the eclipse happens and where the main characters are first discovering their powers. with varying degrees of enthusiasm.......

plot points, as seen in this recap:

Peter is introduced as a hospice nurse crushing on the daughter of his current patient Charles Deveaux, Simone

Nathan is introduced as a career shark politician and Peter’s brother

Angela is introduced as their mother, first appearing a little unstable, but soon revealed to be very sharp and with a clear, harsh world-view clashing with Peter’s big heart

Peter has dreamed of flying (possibly with Nathan?) the whole episode, and he finally tries at when he sees a painting on himself implying the same; Nathan even complies, just for the moment, to save him (because he doesn’t actually know what he’s doing)

Claire is introduced as her best friend films her injuring herself over and over and healing instantly, and later rescues a man from a burning train because she’s the only one able to go far enough inside

Hiro is introduced as an office worker convinced he can manipulate space-time, and Ando as his sceptical coworker / best friend - he repeatedly tries to prove himself, but to no avail; even when Ando reluctantly believes him, he’s certainly not impressed. dejected, Hiro drives home alone on the subway, looking at a poster of New York... and suddenly, teleports there!

Mohinder is introduced as a genetics professor at the university of Madras, talking about evolution and possible special abilities in certain humans, as it’s revealed was his late father’s field of research

Niki is introduced as a single mom to a very tech-savvy boy (Micah), working as a camgirl to pay the mounting bills (and sometimes having troubles with her reflection...)

when men sent by a mysterious employer (’Linderman’) come after Niki to get back money she’s loaned from him, she can’t give it to them, and they decide to instead sexually assault her - she blacks out, and wakes up to their dead bodies (we have at that point no idea who could have done it)

Noah is introduced (if nameless) as an agent of some kind following Chandra Suresh’s research, and therefore also his son’s quest to find out more about him - from his old apartment in Chennai all the way to the States, where Mohinder took up his father’s side job as a taxi driver for the duration of his stay

Isaac is introduced as Simone’s painter boyfriend (she is an arts dealer, and this is likely how they met), and he tries to convince her that his paintings are ‘evil’ because they show the future - an often catastrophic future (fun fact: the first time Isaac saw one of his paintings come true, it was a self-fulling prophecy - a woman saw herself getting run over by a bus, ran away from the gallery in terror (all the while shouting accusations at a very confused Isaac)... and crossed the street without looking...)

Simone returns to Isaac’s loft to find him high (again), and frantic about his latest piece: a giant nuclear explosion in the middle of New York

[yutaya]

Discord was all, “what would Danny be like in an AU where he was CEO instead of the Iron Fist?” and then they were like “What would WARD be like if he was the Iron Fist instead of CEO?”, and I was like “wow interesting question and I kind of want to answer but also I have to go to work ttyl” - and then I didn’t reply for like, a week and a half, but - here we go.

So. A role reversal AU where Danny is the CEO of Rand Enterprises and Ward is the Iron Fist.

So maybe in this universe, it wasn’t Madame Gao who approached Harold with an offer to save him. Maybe it was Harold, desperately searching for any way to prolong his own life, who hears whispers about shadows who don’t die, that there’s an organization, and Harold doesn’t even hesitate to offer them a deal in exchange for immortality. It’s nothing to Harold to dip his company into criminal enterprises, after all. He even suggests a solution to the possibility of his straight-laced business partner hindering their business - a plane crash related solution.

But the Hand likes to believe they control everything, and in this universe, it was not their idea to approach Harold Meachum and acquire Rand as a resource. The audacity! This man thinks he can come and use them, an outsider, using their substance, and doesn’t even have the honor to offer a true sacrifice in return, only that which he wouldn’t mind giving up and which he may even be planning on doing with his company and his business partner anyway?

So the Hand says, interesting proposition, meet us in one of our upcoming base locations where we may be able to discuss terms and your supplying the building for our next facility there, and then just as Harold so eagerly suggested a plane crash for his business partner, he finds his own travel to Anzou cut short.

A plane crash may be too showy for the Hand’s usual tastes, but Madame Gao does appreciate the poetic-ism of it.

In another world, Wendall took Heather and Danny with him on his trip to investigate the Anzou facility. In this world, Harold took Ward, for another “lesson” on “being an effective business man”.

Did he bring Joy as well? Spin it as some family vacation time in China after daddy’s business meeting is through? Intend to have Ward watch her while he conducted the more unsavory parts of his business?

If Joy and Ward are both on the plane:

-A: Joy, like Heather, dies in the plane crash, leaving Ward as sole survivor. This would absolutely devastate Ward, and not really work, I think - maybe it would be convenient to create a whole “fueled solely by revenge and with nothing left to lose, Ward channels all his energy and stubbornness and drive into destroying the Hand who took his baby sister” plot line, but… that’s like, Darkest Timeline content, and it makes me sad to think about, and also Ward is at his core more of a “protector of those he loves” guy than a “dark and vengeful” guy, so.

-B: Both children survive the crash. Their father does not. Joy is devastated, and ten years old, and Ward’s first priority is to prevent his little sister from freezing to death on a snowy mountain top in the fucking Himalayas. So how does this go? Ward and Joy both grow up in K'un Lun. Joy wants to go home to Danny and Heather and Wendall and their company, so when the pass opens fifteen years later, she takes off, and Ward goes with her, because of course he does. 

Maybe in this world they’re closer, still brought together by living through their father’s death and by having to present a united front against the sharks in the water, even if those sharks are monks sneering at the foreigners this time instead of businessmen looking to tear down the children running a company, but without Ward isolating himself, going down a path of drug abuse and mysterious injuries. Without Joy going to college and law school and struggling to prove herself next to her “prodigy” big brother.

These Meachum siblings go back to New York and to a Danny Rand who lost both of his siblings and his uncle in one fell swoop, who was left alone but for his parents. Wendall and Heather, to their credit, are kind and loving parents who hug him and do their best to support their child through the entire family’s grief and talk to him about death and such, but they are still adults with jobs and responsibilities and a whole lot of workload dropped onto their plates in the fallout of the entire Meachum family’s tragic demises.

How does Danny fare, left all alone? He grieves. He’s lonely. He’s angry at the circumstances, at faulty planes, at the shoddy craftsmanship that must have gone into it because it’s easier to rail against that than the idea that sometimes these things just… happen. He’s even guiltily angry with the Meachums, for leaving him. But he’s also Danny Rand, who came out of tragedy and abuse a kung-fu master ball of hope and light.

So Danny makes the best of things. Maybe when he gets a little older, hits his teenager years, he starts going out. Gets really good at slipping away from his security guards - learns to be light on his feet. Goes to skate parks, marvels at some of the tricks the other kids can do, and starts learning a bit of parkour, just because it’s cool. Maybe he explores the city he only really saw before from penthouse balconies - makes friends with hole-in-the-wall restaurant owners and moving company workers and homeless dudes in the park. Maybe he visits Chinatown, Harlem, Hell’s Kitchen.

Maybe Danny ends up with connections all across the city, and in this universe, all those Rand Enterprises ads about being “for the family” and “there to support people” are a little more true than in another universe where the Hand was pulling Harold’s was pulling Ward’s strings. Wendall and Heather and business school teach Danny not to just give away all their products at cost when he takes over after Wendall either decides to retire early or just steps down into a lower position as part of a planned, gradual transition for the company, but maybe Danny helps set up programs to help get their product to disadvantaged groups without immediately inviting the board to oust him. 

Maybe Rand is heavily involved in philanthropy. Maybe a certain portion of those funds go to research on aircraft safety, and to families of plane crash victims. Maybe Danny still always separates out brown m&ms.

And then, one day, two adults show up claiming to be the long dead Joy and Ward Meachum, with a fantastical tale about surviving the plane crash and being raised in a monastery, and coming back now to reconnect with their old friend. They do not say that the monastery was part of a village that only connects to the rest of the world every fifteen years, or that the people there are all part of a cult dedicated to fighting a shadow organization of undead ninja criminals, or that, by the way, Ward punched a dragon in the heart and his fist glows now, because they are not idiots, but it still seems a little too good to be true. Danny wants to believe, but his parents caution him, and Danny’s fingerprint in an old ceramic gift won’t necessarily help ID Joy and Ward Meachum. Still, let’s say the Rands are a lot more willing to civilly work to gain proof one way or the other, and Joy and Ward don’t take offense to the need for verification, and somehow they figure it out and commence awkwardly trying to reconnect now that they’re all adults with different life experiences and nothing turned out how they’d expected it would as children.

And maybe the Meachum siblings get wind of the Hand in New York, or the Hand gets wind of the Iron Fist in New York, and they kind of try to keep Danny out of it but HA like that was ever going to work; they finish fending off a group of attackers in their new penthouse living room and once the ninjas disappear through the top-of-a-skyscraper-window they turn to find Danny standing in the doorway with an army’s worth of Chinese take-out in his arms and his mouth gaping.

They try to play it off. Danny points out that he literally just saw them fighting off fucking ninjas who left through the penthouse window and also Ward’s hand was GLOWING. They hesitantly explain, already formulating a backup plan to insist ‘no officer, Danny was super drunk last night, really,’ in case he calls the mental hospital on them. Danny, to their astonishment, listens seriously to their story, nods, and announces that there are some people he thinks they should meet.

CUE DEFENDERS. How does Danny know them in this AU? Probably through Claire, let’s be honest. He probably keeps bringing random bystanders he finds in trouble on the streets to the hospital and paying all their medical bills, managed to make friends with half the nurses in the city, and was super concerned when one of the hospitals was attacked by ninjas and one of his nurse friends died and another abruptly quit and all the officials were being very hush-hush about it, but Danny has connections with the part of the city that people like to ignore, and there were witnesses that night in the homeless and the street kids and the struggling immigrants working night shift across the street, and he tracks down nurse Claire in Harlem to make sure she’s alright (and to gush about her mother’s cooking, wow, Claire, I didn’t know your family owned a restaurant, that’s so cool!)

…and maybe a few days in to the whole “wow some people claiming to be my childhood friends back from the dead have appeared” business he goes to visit his girlfriend at her struggling dojo that she refuses to let him help with and finds! Claire! learning martial arts! Cool!!

And some other shenanigans, idk, how do timelines work, somehow Danny’s protagonist luck and sunshine power means he manages to meet all the other Defenders at least once somewhere in-between starting to sneak out when he’s fifteen and getting himself adopted by the entire city by the time he’s twenty-five, and then all this Meachum-vs-the-Hand stuff is happening and the city’s favorite billionaire is in the thick of it, and lol guess what Danny your girlfriend has secretly been a member of the Hand this entire time, yeah she didn’t have the “Danny hates the Hand” thing as a reason to hesitate on telling him this time but also their relationship was moving a lot slower when he wasn’t hiding in her dojo from hitmen, so forgive her if she hadn’t quite gotten to the family conversation yet -

- but that’s all part of a lovely universe where K'un Lun makes Ward and Joy more of a unit, and Danny was forced to make other friends with a whole city to choose from rather than just an abusive monastery cult and Davos. Let’s rewind.

Fifteen-year-old Ward is on the plane with Harold. Ten-year-old Joy is at home, staying with the Rands for the duration of Daddy’s boring business trip.

The plane goes down.

Ward finds the pilots with black creeping up their veins. He finds Dad, dead in the snow. He’s at a loss, and a little sad, but also, guiltily, relieved.

He’s free.

He’s also stranded on a snowy mountaintop and likely to freeze to death, cold and alone and without ever seeing Joy again.

Ward is stubborn beyond belief. He has an iron core of contrary asshole-ness that got him through 30 years of abuse. He never gives up without a fight. He never gives up, period.

He picks a direction, and starts walking.

There are monks. Maybe he didn’t find his own salvation. Maybe the monks saw the crash and came to investigate, and found a teenager trudging through the snow. But he wasn’t collapsed in the ice. He stubbornly insists that he might have made it on his own, that they didn’t rescue him. He’s not helpless. He’s not.

This one has fight, the monks murmur to each other. There is fire in his spirit.

They take him back to the village, where there is warmth, and food, and dry clothing, and a tree that smells like brown sugar. Ward wants a phone, so he can call the Rands. Explain what happened. Talk to Joy.

We don’t have phones here.

Fair enough, it is a monastery on top of a mountain in the Himalayas. Ward doesn’t know why anyone would want to live in a monastery on top of a mountain in the Himalayas, but he doesn’t really care. There must be a way they get down the mountain, for supplies and stuff. There must be a way people get up the mountain, to visit the monastery. Ward wants to go home.

The pass is closed. K'un Lun sits on another plane of existence. The pass only opens once every fifteen years, and then it is guarded by the Iron Fist, to protect us from the Hand. You can not leave.

Ward has managed to walk himself right into the clutches of a new enemy. These people intend to imprison him.

Ward has never been a planner, but he has tenacity in spades. Over the next month he makes 21 escape attempts.

“There’s no point,” says one of the bratty monk children that’s taken to following him around. Ward knows this one is the child of the head monk here. His father taught him to look out for political details like that. He doesn’t know the kid’s name, and he doesn’t care. David or something. (His father was always disappointed in Ward for failing those lessons too.)

Ward ignores him. He takes off into the snowy wind - walks and walks and nearly freezes in the cold and when he finally spots lights in the distance and makes his way to salvation, it’s just fucking K'un Lun again.

He doesn’t give up. He doesn’t. But. It might be smart to recuperate. Conserve his resources. Break into the monks’ plum wine barrels. Serves them right if their captives steal their stupid wine. Stupid monks.

Some asshole makes a remark about his foreigner status. Ward swings a punch at them. They take him down in two seconds, and laugh about it. They sneer at him, mock him.

He’ll show them.

Ward trains in their stupid kung-fu cult school. The teachers are harsher on him than all of their students, he can tell. They’re trying to break him. Jokes on them, Ward has survived Harold Meachum for fifteen years. In another life, he makes it for thirty, kills the bastard, and thrives. This is nothing.

The harder they try to break him, the stronger the steel in Ward’s spine holds him up. Fuck them, and their fucking pass, and their kung-fu cult, and their pretty little prison. Ward claws his way to the top on pure spite.

He becomes the Iron Fist.

The monks have grown complacent, after fifteen years. They send him outside, into the pass, alone and away from the village even as he’s expected to guard it. The Hand could travel between the outside world and K'un Lun. Anyone could.

Idiots.

A bird flies overhead, and Ward feels triumph.

He’s finally going back to New York.

In New York, at Rand Enterprises, there are Danny and Joy. After the tragic death of her remaining family, Joy is adopted by the Rands. She keeps her last name. She acknowledges Heather and Wendall as her parents, but still calls them by their first names. They all go to visit Harold’s and Ward’s graves every year, on the anniversary, and also on their birthdays, on Father’s Day, sometimes just when they’re passing by or having a bad day, or have life milestone news to share, like when Joy gets into law school, or when Danny is thinking he might want to let Joy and his parents handle the business and become a nurse. 

Both times Joy and Danny get older than Ward ever got to be, they hole up in one of their rooms together and go through 3 bottles of wine, and their parents don’t ground them in the morning. Danny visits Joy on campus, and she rolls her eyes but grins as she introduces him to her friends. Joy holds Danny’s hand while he comes out to his parents as bi. Danny and Joy put all the brown m&ms in a dish in front of an empty seat, for Ward, even though he was never a part of that game with them. When they play monopoly, no one ever uses “Ward’s piece”. In this universe, Joy and Danny are the close siblings - not codependent, like Joy and Ward were, but best friends, in a way that Joy and Ward weren’t.

Joy did not have to fight tooth and claw to prove to herself that she could live up to her father’s legacy or her brother’s reputation. She becomes a cutthroat business woman with a strategic mind, but she also knows how to put away the shark teeth in her personal life. Danny grows up on neither the hope of seeing the rest of his family again nor with the weight of having to start over and make new friends. He, Joy, and Ward were isolated kids, and he and Joy stay fairly isolated once Ward is gone, since they still have each other.

Danny has a sunshine nature, and he still learns the names and faces of all the Rand employees. He still chats cheerfully with all the delivery people and waiters and checkout clerks that cross his path. But - he’s not as lonely, here. He’s more content in his upper-class world, schmoozing at the charity galas even if he’d much rather be camped at the refreshment table, and he talks to the catering staff just as much as the bigwigs he’s supposed to be networking with. He puts on his tuxedo and accompanies Joy to orchestral concerts, and he is absolutely the big gun his family breaks out when they need to show a client someone earnest and hopeful and who truly believes in the good of their company.

When Ward comes back, he may lose his temper on the security team at Rand. Just a little. He’s come so far, and he’s waited so long, and he’s SO CLOSE to seeing his baby sister again, and these idiots think they can stop him?

So maybe he breaks past them. It’s not the smartest move, but. Dad always said Ward didn’t think things through. And Joy is right there, only a few floors away. He won’t be stopped now.

He busts into her office. Joy threatens to call security. Danny rushes in, and they stand side-by-side, a united front, examining this stranger claiming to be their dead brother.

Ward’s goal, all these years, has mostly been about getting back to Joy. But he can’t deny that when he thought about her, sometimes he’d think about Danny, too. It was unavoidable - they share so many memories, after all. It’s always been Joy-and-Danny, and big-brother-Ward, their whole lives. Joy-and-Danny-and-babysitter-Ward. Joy-and-Danny playing make believe and Ward, being an asshole.

So Ward stands frozen in the doorway, and just as he’d exclaimed “Joy!” when he burst in, he now breathes “Danny?”

And Danny and Joy have always been the more hopeful of the three siblings, the two who want to believe, who can look at a package of m&ms and think ’it’s a dream come true.’

They look at the way the stranger hasn’t made any move to hurt them, and the way he looks like Ward, and the way he can’t keep his eyes off of Joy, but not in a creepy way like so many businessmen they’ve had to deal with: in a way that seems so relieved and hopeful - and they run a DNA test. Joy is right there, after all, and there’s no question about her identity. They’re literally standing in their pharmaceutical company. They pop down to one of the labs and Danny asks Eva if she could do him a favor, pretty please with a cherry on top, and Eva laughs and says “you got it, Mr. Rand,” and Danny whines “Eva, I keep telling you, it’s Danny,” and Eva grins and says “whatever you say, Mr. Rand,” and basically Ward is Ward and they’re in for some complications what with all the telling Wendall and Heather they have to do and the reviving Ward legally they have to do, and the getting to know him again after fifteen years of thinking he was dead, and Joy definitely snaps at some point down the line and screams at Ward and cries and hits his chest going “you left, you left, you left,” and Danny had gotten used to telling Ward’s ghost all his woes and relying on an idealized version of him and is now suddenly remembering with trepidation what an asshole Ward actually was, and. it’s gonna be a rough time. It’s gonna be a rough time, but they’ll get through it, because they all refuse not to.

….And maybe we still have to deal with the part where Ward is the Iron Fist, and the Hand are in New York, and maybe Ward doesn’t actually give a flying fuck about stopping the Hand or anything that fucking monk cult kept going on about, but the Hand sure does care about manipulating the Iron Fist into doing its bidding. And Ward may not care about K'un Lun, but like HELL is he going to sit back and twiddle his thumbs when those assholes inevitably threaten his family.

“You will not touch them,” Ward seethes, and suddenly his fist is glowing and he’s beating the assailants up, and his fist is glowing and is that a tattoo, and Ward’s FIST IS GLOWING.

“What the fuck, Ward.”

“Right,” Ward says, pushing back his hair. “There’s something else I should tell you.”

[betweensceneswriter]

Island Hopper-Chapter 23: Cocos Island

The basics:  Claire is a Peace Corps volunteer nurse and Jamie is a Peace Corps teacher on an atoll in the Marshall Islands.  After a whirlwind romance and swift marriage (detailed in Jimjeran Book 1), Claire and Jamie are adjusting to married life.  Currently, they are visiting her family on Guam for Christmas (in this version, she’s one of four siblings with an Air Force chaplain as a dad... and Jamie’s dad didn’t die). 

Previously on Island Hopper:  Chapter 20: Tarzan Falls A hike with friends, and an unexpected reunion at Our Lady of Lourdes.

Island Hopper (Jimjeran Book 2) Full Table of Contents

Island Fever (Jimjeran Book 1) Table of Contents

    The Cocos Island ferry dock was at the southern end of the island so it took us a good hour to get there, traveling in the busy traffic on Marine Drive and through the bustling capitol city of Guam, Agaña.

    Finally at the Cocos Island parking lot we discovered we had arrived at the same time as a crowd of Seth’s friends from the University of Guam, and shortly after we had parked and unloaded all of our things a taxi carrying both John and Joe arrived. Jamie looked at me with a curious smile as the two handsome men walked toward us across the parking lot.

    “They’re just saving money by taking a taxi together,” I suggested nonchalantly, my heart in my throat, face flushing.  “It’s expensive to get around the island.” I stared at the two of them as inconspicuously as I could, wondering if there was more to the sharing of a taxi than I implied.  

    We purchased our tickets at the office and waited for the ferry to arrive at the dock, though we quickly determined it wouldn’t take long gauging from the view we had of the rapidly advancing boat.

    While we waited, I peeled off my cover-up and had Jamie apply sunscreen to my back and shoulders.

    “Christ, Claire, dinna ye think this is something we should have done away from the eyes of a crowd?” he whispered to me.  “Seriously, lass, it seems each day you find new and different ways to torture me.”

    I laughed and put the cover-up back on once he was done.

    On the ride, Seth shouted introductions to his friends over the constant rumble of the boat engines. Dora, Savannah, Alissa, Ramona, Patrick, Ed, Andrew.

    The four girls were young and bubbly, tossing their long hair over their shoulders or pulling it out of their faces as they wrestled with the warm breeze.  I had already admitted defeat and had twisted my curls up in a tousled bun.

    “This is my sister, Claire,” Seth yelled, leaning toward his friends but gesturing towards me.

    “Hi, Claire,” said one of them, reaching across the boat to shake hands with me.

    “And this is her husband, Jamie,” Seth bellowed.

    Most of them smiled and nodded, but I caught a faint look of something next to surprise or disgust cross the face of the girl Seth had introduced as Ramona, the one blonde of the group. Maybe I was reading to much into it, but her facial expression seemed to be saying ‘he's married to you?” I smiled at her, but I doubt it reached my eyes, and then I turned my gaze toward the island as we approached.

    Fortunately the ride was neither long nor the ocean too choppy, so Jamie only looked slightly sallow by the time we arrived.  

    Cocos Island was a little resort off the coast of Guam. When I had been a teenager living there, it was a common place for eighth-grade class field trips and Japanese tourists, the yen being strong against the dollar. This appeared to still be true from the number of teenagers and petite, sunburnt Asians we saw walking along the beach. Palm-frond umbrellas, picnic tables, and lounge chairs joined the palm trees edging the wide white sand expanse of the beach. On the other side of the dock, a large area bounded by floating buoys indicated the region where rented jet skis were to stay.

    The college girls quickly took charge, directing the boys towards an unoccupied semi-shady spot on the sand. We spread out quilts and set down backpacks, both John and Joe establishing themselves near Jamie and myself, farther away from the high-pitched talk and flirtatious giggling of the young ladies. They teased and cajoled until the collegiate men gave in and went out to wade in the ocean, though my guess was that their true intent was to bounce around in their bikinis and get doused with water to make the clingy fabric cling even more.   I watched them curiously, realizing with slight dismay that this was Jamie’s peer group—kids in the 18-22 year age group.

    John and Joe asked Jamie if he wanted to explore the island.  They invited me as well, but not wanting to interrupt the male bonding I declined, finding myself amused enough just observing the strange mating rituals of American college students.  It had been a long time since those days.

    “What are ye doing, hen?” Jamie’s voice startled me, but I regained my composure as he sat down on the sand next to me.

    “Watching people,” I replied with a grin.

    “Which ones?” he asked.

    “Those two,” I said, pointing over toward Shelly and one of Seth's friends. Was it Patrick?  No, maybe it was Ed.  I remembered that he was tall and dark-haired, and looked more Latino than Chamorro or Filipino. “I’m watching Shelly and whoever that is,” I said, making another gesture in their direction.

    “Hush,” Jamie said, quickly grabbing my hand and pulling it downward into his lap.  “Didna your parents teach ye it's rude to point?”

    I smirked back at him. Nevertheless, he followed the direction my finger had indicated and saw Shelly blushing prettily, lowering her eyelashes and then looking up and meeting the handsome young man's gaze.

    “‘Um,’” Jamie squeaked, “‘Could you help me find my swimsuit? I know it's around here somewhere…’” It took me a moment to realize this was his version of Shelly.

    I elbowed him in the side.

    “Don't talk about my sister that way,” I grumbled in semi-perturbed response.

    “Seriously, Ri-pālle,” he said, turning to me and speaking as himself, “What young ladies think passes for swimwear these days… Why, if I had a daughter, I wouldna let her wear such a tiny suit.”

    “She looks good in it,” I said, inspecting her. “You want to penalize her for being pretty?  You're too conservative.”

    “Aye, perhaps I am,” Jamie replied. “But look at the way he's looking at her, eating her wi’ his eyes.”

    “No…” I contradicted.  “That’s not it at all. ‘You seem intelligent and well-spoken,’” I offered in a deep voice. “‘I am deeply interested in your thoughts and dreams. What do you think of the current state of affairs with North Korea?’”

    Jamie leaned over and kissed me on the forehead. “Ye are quite amusing, wee one.”

    “Can't a guy feel both ways?” I asked. “Interested in a girl as a person AND attracted to her physically?”

    “Aye,” he conceded with a smile.  “I guess I'm just feeling protective.”

    “Because you liked me as a person first, right?” I asked.

    “Definitely,” he said, looking away at the white sand rimmed by turquoise water. “Though I was aware of you as a woman from nearly the beginning.” He returned his gaze to me, his eyes traveling appreciatively over my body, punctuating his comment with a low whistle.  My insides quivered at the expression on his face and I flushed and turned away, hearing the approach of footsteps on the sand.

    “Come swimming with us,” Joe panted, sitting down beside me. “I like John well enough, but I came out here to visit my friend!”

    John grinned as he squatted off to the side. He really was a nice-looking guy with his tanned skin and a muscular but slim build, kind eyes and bright smile.

    “We’re people-watching,” Jamie offered. “Join us.”  He nodded his head toward Shelly and her handsome young friend. “‘I'm going to be a climate scientist,’” Jamie squeaked. “‘And I think the cause of global warming is you!’”

    Not missing a beat, John added in a masterful falsetto,“‘You walk by, and my temperature goes up by two degrees!’”

    Jamie guffawed, and Joe gave John a high five while I pretended it wasn't funny and rolled my eyes.

    “Seriously, Claire, come swim.”

    “Soooo many reasons not to,” I objected.

    “Such as?” Joe asked.

    “Sharks.  Coral scars.  Salt water--which makes my skin sticky and my hair frizzy.”

    “Then come to the pool,” John urged.  “You can’t object to that--this is our chance to play! Ejjab ri-jowan!”

    I looked at Jamie for the translation. “Don’t be lazy,” he said with a grin. I took Jamie’s proffered hand and got up, brushing the sand from my backside and following the guys to the pool.

    Once there, I sat on the edge with my legs in the water, not eager to get into the semi-cold pool.  The boys seemed less reluctant, jumping in almost immediately.  Joe decided to swim laps, having claimed that he had been eating too much and without going to the gym he wasn’t getting enough exercise to burn the calories he was consuming.  Though I couldn’t see a spare ounce on his toned abdomen, I had shrugged and shooed him off.

    “How has your visit been?” I asked John, who waded through the water to me and leaned against the side of the pool where he joined me in watching Joe’s long arms beat a steady rhythm as he swam laps, and Jamie’s back as he climbed up the ladder on the deep end of the pool.

    “Far more interesting than I expected it to be,” he responded, “Though Aikwij and Emily have said they thought they’d see more of me.”

    “Oh, I’m so sorry!” I apologized.  “We just wanted to include you.  We wouldn’t have asked as often if we’d thought we were offending your family.”

    “I’m not sorry,” John replied, following Jamie with his eyes as my muscular husband walked to the diving board and paused, checking to make sure Joe was at the far end of the pool. “I’ve missed Jamie the last couple of years, and it’s been lovely to see so much of the island with your family.  And to meet Joe, too,” he said, with a shy smile.

    I soon saw a side of Jamie I hadn’t observed before as he climbed the steps to the diving board and did a graceful backwards dive into the pool.  He came up out of the water grinning and quickly swam to the shallow end.  Once he reached us, he shook his head violently, showering me with water and making the curls pop up all over his scalp. Instead of squealing, I just glared at him, rolled my eyes, and kept on talking to John.

    Eventually I succumbed to pressure and went in swimming with the boys, but soon, feeling more chilled than I had in months, I retreated to the women’s locker room in the pool house to take a warm shower.

    I had wrapped myself in my towel and curled up on one of the lounge chairs under the palm trees by the pool when I saw Jamie exit the men’s locker room.  He shaded his eyes, looking around then heading away from me toward the beach.  I saw at least two sets of giggly girls--sunburned and simpering--parade past him.  I watched him, looking for his response to other women.  He seemed friendly enough, stepping to the side to allow them the right-of-way--but I didn’t see him ogle.  That didn’t mean anything, of course.  I knew plenty of guys who had mastered the art of the non-head-turning stare.

    There were three girls off to my right. From appearances, I couldn’t tell whether they were high school or college-aged and I didn’t want to seem like a stalker.  However, I couldn’t help but hear as bits of their conversation wafted in my direction.

    “Oh my god, look at that piece of man candy,” one of the girls said.  I scanned the poolside to see who they were talking about.

    “You mean that redhead? He is damn fine!” was the response.  I felt a flush of embarrassed pride as I realized that they were talking about Jamie.  I burrowed deeper into my towel, not sure I wanted Jamie to see me at that precise moment.

    There were a few murmurs of appreciation from the young ladies, and one girl declared confidently, “I’d go down on that and then give him the ride of his life.”

    I nearly snorted as I tried to keep down my laughter.  Having already done both of those things multiple times, I had a strong suspicion she'd be hard pressed to give him ‘the ride of his life.’

    Finally, Jamie reached a place where he could survey most of the beach, including the location claimed by Seth and his friends.  Not finding me among them, he turned back toward the pool.

    I could tell when he noticed me from the smile that spread across his face.  Instead of meandering he headed straight for me, pulled the lounge chair next to me a little closer, and stretched his length out on the chair.

    I could hear disappointed exclamations from the trio but worked to ignore them.  After all, what did it matter what they thought?

    Jamie grabbed my hand, brought it up to his lips and kissed it, releasing it slowly as he ran his cheek down the back of my hand.

    “You shaved today!” I exclaimed at the unusual softness.

    “So did you,” he remarked, running a finger gently up my thigh at which I shivered.

    We sat in silence for a few minutes, taking in the view of breakers crashing on the coral barrier reef that protected the small outlying island, causing the waves that reached the sandy beach to gently lap at the shore.

    “You seem lost in thought,” Jamie said, looking up at me from the lounge chair, one arm behind his head as a pillow.  “I could swear you were going to start talking at least four times by now.” At my furrowed forehead he explained himself, “I ken because ye always take a half-breath when you have something to say.”

    He waited then as I thought through the jumble in my mind and finally came out with my question.

    “What if I'm your Frank?” I asked.

    “What do you mean?” he asked.  I lowered my lounge chair back so I could lie next to him, affording us more privacy in the conversation.

    “It’s possible that I’m your Frank.  I’m stable.  I’m settled.  I’m mature.” As Jamie raised his eyebrows skeptically, I added honestly “--ish.”

    “I think ye have an overly high opinion of your maturity,” he joked.

    I could see he didn’t understand what I meant.  “No, let me explain,” I insisted, trying to keep my thoughts straight. “I started dating Frank because in comparison to the guys in my peer group, he was a catch.  Responsible, hardworking, established, mature.”

    “And so you are proposing…” Jamie started the sentence, waiting for me to finish it.

    “That that’s the real reason you liked me.  That in comparison to other twenty-somethings I was relatively settled in life.  Stable. And that appealed to you.”

    Jamie scoffed and shook his head.  “Ye are not my Frank,” he contradicted. “Certainly those qualities appealed to me.  But there’s more to us than that.  Consider, Claire.  Ye arna with me just because I’m younger.  It certainly wasn’t for my age that you were attracted to me, was it?”

    “No…” I mused in response. “In fact, it was probably a hindrance.”

    “Aye,” Jamie said.  His face softened.  “I admired you, yes, for your talents & intelligence.  But I also felt a strong attraction, so I didna look at ye and think ‘Claire’s too old for me.’”  Not meeting my eyes, he added, “The only time I even thought about it was when you tried to push me away, using me being Seth’s age as some sort of excuse, some sort of reason that I wasna yer equal.”

    He looked truly troubled now, forehead wrinkled, and I began to feel slightly nauseated.

    “I think we’ve been through this before, though,” I said.  “Your age was just an easy excuse.  In a way I was shaming myself for the way I was feeling--falling in love with you, wanting to be unfaithful to Frank--and I only meant to push you away. I couldn’t tell you how I really felt.”

    Jamie took a slow, ragged breath.

    “Oh babe, I hurt you…” I said with sudden recognition.

    He was looking at me then, an uncertain shadow in his eyes.

    “I’m sorry, Jamie,” I insisted. “That wasn’t my intent.” It seemed like he was drifting away from me, so I reached for his hand, wanting something to connect us.

    “You didna think you could trust me with the truth?” he asked.  

    “No, it wasn’t that I couldn't trust you,” I insisted.  “I couldn’t trust myself to be vulnerable.  We were already too intimate.  Sharing how I truly felt would have just opened me up that much more.”

    He looked away.

    “Really, Jamie.  Do you really think I could have said all that to you?...  I’m here in the Marshall Islands because I’m questioning my relationship with my fiance and I’m kind of hoping to break up with him while we are apart but I’m trying to fool myself into thinking there’s something to save and so I’m going to push you away because although you are the first person I’ve ever connected with in this way, I feel a deep sense of guilt that I couldn’t make a relationship with a good guy work?”

    Finally Jamie was smiling, shaking his head slightly as he looked down at our joined hands. “Aye,” he said.  “That would have been about right.”

    “But am I your Frank?” I asked.  “Are you going to outgrow me?  Will you find me too staid and—yes—mature for you as time goes by?”

    Jamie sat up, leaned over, and kissed me firmly. “Hush, wee one.”

    I paused, stunned by his swiftness, a little mortified that he’d claimed me in the presence of the young women, and suddenly ashamed of myself.

    “I’m doing it again, aren’t I?” I asked.  He settled back on the chair but watched me through eyes half-closed to shield him from the sun.

    “Aye,” he said with a sigh.  “Ye need constant reassurance that I mean what I say, and that makes me wonder if you trust me.  Have I ever done or said anything to lead you to believe that I am regretful about marrying you? Or...” he paused briefly, “that I’m no’ satisfied with our life together?”

    “No...” I answered slowly, then repeated myself with more force.  “No, Jamie.  Not at all.  You seem happy. But I would regret marrying me,” I stated.  

    He laughed and stroked the back of my hand with his thumb.

    “Ri-pālle… Do you have some vision of me as a perfect man?” he asked.  His sudden insight silenced me. Probably, I thought. I probably did see him as somehow better than I.

    “You’re so beautiful, Jamie,” I said slowly, watching the faint pink creep over his face in response. “I still find myself looking at you sometimes and marveling at you.  And you were such an innocent when we married.”

    “Innocent?” he scoffed briefly.  “Virginity at marriage doesn't qualify me to be canonized to sainthood,” he said. “Considering that we were engaged a mere three days, my resolve was truly untested.”

    I giggled, remembering a heady make-out session in the dark overlooking the beach, and another episode of first-time experiences in his classroom the afternoon before our wedding.

    “Ye canna idolize me, hen,” he said, a smile quirking his own lips and recognition filling his eyes. “Ye canna think me perfect simply because I haven’t had the opportunity to deeply disappoint you yet.”

    I watched the play of light through the palm trees on his face.  

    “You’re probably right,” I said.  “I’m asking too many questions.  And I didn’t choose you simply because of your age.”

    “No,” he agreed.  “You chose me because we were like-minded.  Because we enjoyed each other's company.”

    “Because you filled my heart in a way it had never been filled before,” I said quietly.

    “And do ye not see that you also fill mine?” he said quietly.

    I could see it then, in the way his eyes crinkled at the corner in affection.  He lifted his hand to my face, stroking my cheek.

    “So then, you didna leave him because he was too mature, did you?” he asked.

    “No,” I agreed.  “I left because we just weren’t connecting, and I knew there had to be something more.”

    I meant it, and I could feel tears welling up in my eyes as I looked at him.

    Jamie swallowed hard, his face flushing. “God, I want to kiss ye.  And I ken I could, that it isna Arno,” he said.  “But there are some school girls over there that keep staring at us, and I don’t want to debauch their innocent minds by attacking ye here and now.”

    I laughed with an almost-snort.  “Innocent minds?  You have no idea,” I replied.

    “Come, love,” he said, pulling me to my feet. “Let’s join the others.  It’s been a lovely day, but I think we should catch the next boat home.”

Next up:  Chapter 24: Stag Night Seth wants to give Jamie a stag night, and Joe and John have a bachelorette night with Claire.

[irondevilpunisher]

Hi! I hear you about marvel/ Netflix bullshitting but I was with this idea that IF would be merged with Luke Cage and we would be gifted with a Heroes for Hire show Right now with LG cancellation I can't help but wonder that we might be even closer of this What are you thoughs about my hopes ?

Hey! I’m going to answer this as a response to the other asks I’ve been getting on this matter. Seems we’re all reeling over the sudden yet suspicious double ax two weeks in a row during Daredevil’s promotion/airing. And I’m personally still nursing the wounds after Iron Fist but here’s my take away.

Earlier this year and last year before their respective solo shows dropped Finn Jones and Mike Colter were asked about a possible Heroes for Hire series: 

‘Luke Cage’ Star and Showrunner Tease Heroes For Hire Series’ [x]

‘Luke Cage Season 2 Mike Colter Talks Heroes For Hire Dynamic’ [x]

Whether this was going to be a mini series like Defenders or a stand alone series is unknown. But Jones out of the two expressed more enthusiasm in the project and also doing another Defenders:

 ‘Iron Fist’ Star Finn Jones Wants ‘Defenders’ Reunion, ‘Heroes For Hire’ [x]  

‘Luke Cage Star Isn’t Sold on a Heroes For Hire Crossover’ [x]

Yet at the same time Finn was killing any rumors about the team-up series being in the works:

‘Finn Jones Says No Plans For HEROES FOR HIRE Series – Yet’ [x]  

But then just hours after LC gets the ax we get this:

 ‘Iron Fist’ Star Finn Jones Reacts to ‘Luke Cage’ Cancellation’ [x]

‘Iron Fist Star Reacts To Luke Cage Cancellation, Sparks Spinoff Speculation’ [x]

Funny how this all happens before and after Daredevil drops its much anticipated 3rd season. I’m not going to lie the timing of all this and the rumors is very suspicious to me especially now. Netflix MCU has been lowkey selling these characters as a package deal that has been going on since Defenders. 

Now much as I hate what happened to these solo shows I’m not entirely against the idea of them getting a duo spin-off. There are some great story arcs in the Power Man and Iron Fist comics that I’d love to see explored. However I do have some issues with a Heroes for Hire series.

1. Not everyone who watched Luke Cage is a fan of Iron Fist and not everyone who watched Iron Fist is a fan of Luke Cage. Each of these shows have developed their own respective audiences and solo storylines that their fans are passionate about. Messing with that in my opinion will only upset the masses. Not to say that they don’t enjoy when Luke and Danny team up but for argument’s sake its usually preferred in small doses. 

2. What about the supporting characters in each show? There are fans who want a follow up to these arcs. The cancellation of Iron Fist and Luke Cage almost dulls the possibility that we’ll ever get a fitting conclusion to these characters’ journeys on either show. Now if Heroes for Hire does happen all these supporting players would probably move over to that series but at the same time that is a lot of characters and arcs to service which is why I’m so doubtful that they would all return full-time or ever again.

3. Each show has unresolved cliffhangers/storylines after their 2nd year. This is a big one because LC and IF both ended on cliffhangers that can’t just tie into a Heroes for Hire journey. Luke was just made into a crime boss and Danny [who mysteriously got his power back] is over in Japan with Ward looking for Orson Randall. Luke hasn’t resolved his issues with Claire and Danny & Ward haven’t resolved their issues with Joy. And then there’s Colleen running around with the Iron Fist too. See where I’m going with this? You can’t just jump the shark onto a new thread without first finishing what came before.

4. There’s absolutely no guarantee that a team-up series will work. Daughters of the Dragon is a different story because neither of these characters had their own solo series to start. As I said both IF and LC built up their solo audiences. Much as Defenders was a hit with fans it was ultimately because the series followed all four of the established Netflix MCU heroes. Of course people tuned in to see all of them interact and fight together. But again that’s because it wasn’t a full-time deal. Heroes for Hire sounds good on paper but it might not be as successful as Defenders was or their stand alone shows. It was popular in the comics but as a tv series it might not be as popular.

All and all I probably wouldn’t be against a Heroes for Hire series because it means Danny and Luke won’t be going anywhere. I wouldn’t be the least bit surprised if this is what they were planning all along. It means fans get more of their favorite characters. I’d have to see the storylines on each of their cancelled shows wrapped up before they decided to do this though. I’m less forgiving when shows forfeit and reboot everything that was previously established. I don’t want that. If they are gunning for this duo-series they have to finish up the arcs that were presented before their solo shows got the ax. 

I will say though that according to DD3 star Wilson Bethel he mentioned being signed onto a seven year contract with Netflix MCU. Most likely the other actors of the other shows [including Finn Jones and Mike Colter] were given the same deal. So if this is the case why the early cancellations?

Now lately I’m hearing rumors that there is bad blood going on between Marvel and Netflix. And this could possibly affect Daredevil, The Punisher and Jessica Jones. Remember that whole Disney streaming site debacle where they announced they would take back their Marvel properties [possibly excluding the Netflix marvel shows]? 

What Does Disney’s Streaming Service Mean for Fans of the Marvel/Netflix Shows? [x]

Yes at the time they assured us this development wouldn’t affect these shows. But now we’ve come a year later since that announcement and two Netflix MCU properties are already gone prematurely. Since my optimism is shot these days I’m not one for creating much hope. But I can’t help but think they’re going to announce something in a month after Daredevil’s release that will ultimately determine the fate of these shows. And it’ll either be good news or bad news. 

This horrible PR stunt whatever it is could either be generating buzz for Heroes for Hire [and in poor taste if I might add since it happened during the time DD3 was coming out]. Or it could just be that Netflix has decided to flush their brand and 7 year contracts down the toilet. For all our sakes I’m betting on the first option. 

Thanks for the ask! 

[mittensmorgul]

Wayward: Supernatural in Parallels (and a parallel universe as well)

aka I have spent the last four hours typing again, so here you go. :P

(at least I managed to keep it under 6k words this time!)

(shut up that’s kinda brief for me... now if only I could write 6k of fic in 4 hours I’d really be on to something...)

Wayward Sisters set itself up admirably as a spinoff, if for no other reason than it’s so deeply rooted in the original series without actually being that series. We already know all six of the main characters (some of them for nearly a decade, like Claire and Jody), and we know at least a little bit about about how they came to be where they are at the start of 13.10. But even more than that, this episode served so many parallels to the entirety of Supernatural’s past canon, but did so in ways that take all of those themes and wove something entirely new out of them.

All the seeds for the spinoff grew from the original, but they’ve been sown in a new field.

I needed to record as many of these as possible for future reference.

(under a cut because as I said, it’s like 5900 words deep and it’s 2:23 am and I am so not up to editing this tonight.)

The little girl Claire saves from the two werewolves in the cold open looked so familiar to me-- because she reminded me of the ghost girl in 2.11 Playthings. Not technically a parallel, but even from the promo clip with her in it my brain insisted that I’d seen her somewhere before.

Mr. Werewolf and his terrible knock knock joke was such a dark mirror to Kate the werewolf in 8.04. If she was the noble version, he’s the grotesque, right down to the way he uses almost the exact same movements to terrify an innocent as Kate used to get revenge on the guy who’d turned her against her will and murdered her boyfriend. The Winchesters rightly let Kate go (TWICE!) but Claire rightly kills this jerk.

Not to mention Claire’s very personal history with werewolves (and being one bite of a heart away from becoming one herself) in 12.16. This case, and rescuing a little curly-haired blonde girl from werewolves is a tidy metaphor for how Claire has developed as a hunter since we’ve seen her last. And she absolutely PROVES that she’s learned. She doesn’t hunt dumb like she did back in 11.12. She does her homework, and knew exactly what she was doing when she approached Mr. Werewolf’s lair. She knew exactly who she was there to save, how to approach the werewolf lair most effectively (DELIVERY! LAND SHARK!), and she kept her cool throughout the entire fight-- for the sake of the little girl.

This entire fight is also reminiscent of 11.17, just for the fact that she’s physically proving herself as capable as Sam and Dean are in a werewolf fight.

Her rescue of Amanda Fitzmartin from werewolves was a direct parallel of 12.06, and Mary Winchester’s rescue of Asa Fox from… you guessed it, a werewolf! Right down to the mother/child reunion scene on the front porch. I can only imagine that Amanda Fitzmartin may be a future generation hunter now, too… Then again, Asa took up hunting because Mary told him she was “retiring,” and he felt obligated to fill her shoes so that someone would be out there saving people. Claire told Amanda that everything would be okay, and then went right on hunting. Claire’s in a very different place than Mary was, despite the similarities.

Jody’s call to Claire-- “It’s Sam and Dean. They’re missing. They were on a hunting trip, and I haven’t heard from them for a few days.” Well, isn’t that just THE iconic line of the entire series? 1.01, top of the script, hello Dean Winchester. Not to mention 12.20 and how Alicia used the same line about her mother to get Sam and Dean’s help in finding her.

What’s DIFFERENT in Jody’s plea to Claire is, “It’s time to come home.” Home has always been such a nebulous concept for the Winchesters. For the longest time, the only home they knew was Baby. Their “apple pie life” was a pipe dream that they wavered on ever really believing they could have it, or if they even really wanted it the few times it seemed like it could be within their reach (Dean with Lisa after s5, Sam with Jess pre-series, Sam with Amelia after s7). It took a while, but they both now identify the Bunker as “home,” despite it not being a home in the traditional sense. And after Dean’s words to Cas in 13.06-- “Welcome home” as he hugged him at some alley payphone-- I believe their concept of “home” is more “the people we care about” rather than a fixed physical point on a map, you know? And after watching Wayward, and oopsie here jumping to the end for just a second, Claire says, “I'm staying because I need them, my family.” In both series, home is where the heart is, if you will.

Of all the hunters Alex could’ve mentioned that she’d tried calling while looking for Sam and Dean, she mentions Donna (who we’ll see in a bit here), and WALT. Aka one of the guys who killed Sam and Dean way back in 5.16, and who returned in 12.22 to help take down the BMoL.

Claire and Alex’s gentle teasing of each other is just… so dang sisterly. In the same way that Sam and Dean’s teasing of each other is just so dang brotherly, you know? “Did you miss me?” “No, not really.” Lines delivered deadpan followed up with the knowing little smiles.

Claire pointing to her cut lip and telling Jody, “It’s just a werewolf, no big deal.” Well, isn’t that exactly what Dean told Sonny in 9.07 when Sonny questioned him on how his wrists were injured? And heck, how many times has Dean diminished the seriousness of an injury with an “I’m fine” or a “no big deal.” To the point where in 12.23 when he meets up with Cas again, Cas doesn’t even bother asking if he’s okay, just rolls his eyes and heals Dean with a lil boop.

“When did we become huggers?” Well, Sam, Dean, and Cas seem to ask this of themselves every time they find themselves hugging… at least they used to. They’ve since become acclimated to the fact that yes, they are huggers.

Claire’s discovered that Jody let patience move into her room, borrow her sweatshirt, while she was away. But she takes the blame for leaving on herself. This calls back to a lot of the emotional baggage between Sam and Dean over the years in a far less toxic fashion (You chose a demon over your own brother? You didn’t look for me in Purgatory? Who are you gonna replace me with next? There’s a lot of that between the brothers.) But Claire lets it go. And they have Business to attend to…

Alex tends Claire’s wounds during their meeting to share what they’ve gathered so far about Sam and Dean’s disappearance, and then Alex gets up to leave for work. She has a job-- a real, regular job as a nurse (how respectable! In Dean’s words from 2.20). Claire is upset, because finding Sam and Dean should come first, but Alex doesn’t even argue about it. The entire dynamic is similar to Sam and Dean’s motivations in 1.01. Sam had a law school interview that he didn’t want to miss (which Dean initially assumed was a job interview), and described as his whole future on a plate. But Dean insisted they already had “the family business.” Just as Claire insisted her own job is hunting. Unlike Sam and Dean, Alex and Claire work this out in their own way, and Alex DOES go off to work. Her job is just as important as hunting to her, and she doesn’t compromise on that.

Patience’s visions in this context are so reminiscent of Sam’s visions back in the early days. She’s still trying to figure out exactly how they work, and exactly what they mean. And in a lot of ways what Clare seems to be feeling is a reflection of Dean in 2.05 when Andy mind-controls him into telling the truth, “He's psychic. Kind of like you. Well, not really like you, but see, he thinks you're a murderer, and he's afraid that he's going to become one himself, 'cause you're all part of something that's terrible. And, I hope to hell that he's wrong, but I'm starting to get a little scared that he might be right.”

It’s not an exact parallel, but the same sort of disbelief and maybe even a little bit (or a lot) of fear over what those visions might mean. And Claire addresses this later in this episode when she’s talking to Kaia while Jody and Donna are investigating the ship. So I’ll get back to that later… I’m finding it’s really difficult to take this scene by scene…

Claire’s difficulty with Jody “smothering” her while hunting reminds me A LOT of both Dean’s difficulty with John (when Dean first began to break away from blind obedience to John’s every order toward the end of s1), as well as Sam’s difficulty with Dean. How many times has Sam pulled the “I’m not a little kid anymore, I can do this” card on Dean? Exactly. This growth process hurts, and it’s terrifying, but it’s a give and take on both sides, and Claire and Jody both grow a lot by it. Because it’s not just Claire wanting to prove she’s capable, it’s also Jody’s abject fear of losing ANOTHER CHILD to the Supernatural. She would give anything not to have to relive what she went through with her son in 5.15. And Claire does begin to understand Jody’s point of view, as Jody begins to understand Claire’s. And after Dean admitted to Mary in 12.22 that he’s been both mother and father to Sam most of his life, this exact same dynamic can be applied to his over-protectiveness of Sam. There’s a balance to be found between Claire’s “run in head first” and Jody’s “find the perfect plan.”

Speaking of balance, Alex seems to have found a balance that works for her. It’s been a long time since 9.19 when Jody gave her a foundation to build a new life on, and as Jody said in 10.08 and we saw first-hand in 11.12, it wasn’t always easy. But Alex found a career that makes her happy, and in return she’s happy to help Jody with whatever she needs, be it housekeeping or monsters. She seems… settled. And she confirms to Claire that Jody (and by extension Alex herself) never stopped worrying (or thinking) about Claire even when she wasn’t around. It was a solid confirmation to Claire that yes, she’s still part of their family, regardless. And wow, how many times has this sentiment been expressed in Supernatural? Too many to count.

And Claire and Alex get their emotional baggage handled and properly stowed, and it’s right back to the Big Issue at hand. Where we discover that despite all their differences, they’re both on exactly the same page. Claire suggests searching the hospital database for “rock star aliases” in case Sam and Dean have been injured, and Alex confirms she already searched for practically every rock musician she could think of, “From metal gods to obscure hair bands.” And of course “obscure hair bands” makes me think of poor old Vince Vincente and Ladyheart back in s12. Their third album wasn’t terrible… :P

Incredibly enough, a new search for Jane Doe leads Claire to find Kaia in that very hospital (and heck, is it Sioux Falls General? Aka where Dr. Monsterface worked back in 7.02?) Claire finds Kaia and confronts her about Sam and Dean, and instead of needing to be broken out of “child prison” (10.09 for Claire) or rehab (13.09 for Kaia), they both walk out of the hospital. Except oops… there’s some Bad Things waiting for Kaia outside. She freezes in fear and Claire comes to the rescue… but Jody also came to the rescue, and only working together did they kill the Bad Thing.

Warning that here the Destiel Parallels become impossible to ignore or avoid. They’re just blatantly there, so freaking deal with it.

In the hospital, the first time Claire and Kaia see on another we get increasing close-ups of their eyes. Like… welcome to intense eye contact city. The scene is punctuated with an eerie swooshing sound effect to make it impossible to ignore as A Significant Thing.

Back at Jody’s while Alex goes from Nurse Mode into Monster Autopsy mode (snapping that glove on like a regular Dana Scully), Claire and Kaia have a Bonding Moment outside-- comparing scars. As we pointed out back in 11.15, Dean did this exact same thing while bonding with his childhood idol Gunner Lawless (and yes, not Destiel per se here, but definitely a queercoding of Dean and the exact nature of his youthful infatuation with this wrestler). And the trope started with a scene from Lethal Weapon 3, where Riggs bonded with his wife-to-be in the exact same fashion. And Claire and Kaia’s bonding over this is again shown to us through significant eye contact and smiles, and then beginning to open up about themselves in ways we’ve been told that Kaia never opens up to anyone. At least based off what we know of her from 13.09. This is Significant for both her and Claire, who’s been hunting alone for at least a year now. (like… all the Destiel parallels intended)

Back to the Monster Autopsy… this is so reminiscent of 7.09 for me, as a lot of this episode is. I was half waiting for the monster to sit up and start fighting again just like the monster formerly known as Gerald Browder did in 7.09. But unlike Gerald who’d been human until the “creatures from another dimension” got hold of him and fed him grey goop and turned him into a monster, the thing on the table in 13.10 is… really not even remotely human (and it wore a strange mask anyway, in a season of “masked things” and misidentified things). I even tweeted at one point while watching the first time that the monster’s blood was even visually reminiscent of the TDK Slammer goo. Which is interesting because in 13.03 when we first met Patience, there was a billboard announcing that the TDK Slammer was back at Biggerson’s for a limited time. And isn’t that just entirely amusing.

(also a depressing but necessary side note about 7.09-- the episode ends with Bobby shot through the head by Dick Roman. Dick was a thing that looked like another thing, a thing from “another reality” aka Purgatory in his case. But something that absolutely was not supposed to be on Earth. And of course 13.10 uses a LOT of parallels between Purgatory and The Bad Place. I’ll get to those soon.)

Claire convinces Kaia to open up about what she knows of this strange monster and where it came from, and therefore what happened to Sam and Dean. Kaia was convinced that if Sam and Dean are in the Bad Place, then they’re already dead. Much like Dean was convinced that Mary must already be dead in 13.01 when she was trapped in the War World. And much like Sam was convinced that Dean was already dead when he was trapped in Purgatory back in 8.01. And yet…

Sam and Dean are just having a lil camping trip. Well, Dean’s adjusted SCARY FAST to the Bad Place. I suppose that compared to Purgatory it’s kind of a garden spot. They say they’ve been there for two days already, and they haven’t seemed to have run into anything that’s threatened them. It’s not the sort of 360 degree combat we saw Dean endure in Purgatory anyway. He’s even bothered to stop for barbecue. Well, he’s bothered to trap a lizard and roast it over a fire he managed to build.

Poor Sam, meanwhile, looks disgusted at the mere thought of eating the monster land lizard, and rather uncomfortable in general. In the face of Sam’s uneasiness and insistence that they continue to look for the door back to their universe, Dean maintains his exceedingly practical outlook. “Eat up.” They’ve been there two days, they have no reason to believe the door is even still open, and nobody knows where to look for them. He’s been in this exact same spot before, in Purgatory, and learned very quickly there that you do or your die. There’s no point wasting energy fretting about it. I think it must be a switch he can just flip at will at this point, into Purgatory!Dean. We saw it in 12.15. We’ve seen it a few times since s8, actually. It’s unsettling, but it’s practical. It’s how you survive.

When the monster closes in on their little campsite, Dean takes his roast lizard on a stick to go. Unbeknownst to Sam and Dean, something human-shaped has been following them. They’ve seen nothing to raise their suspicions that it might even be a possibility that anything human-ish lives in that world, or that anything might pose a threat to them aside from the giant monster they keep hearing. They’ve been there just long enough to shift their priorities on what to keep their attention focused on that just by waiting them out, Darth Kaia is able to sneak right up to these two men who at ANY other time would’ve been on high alert about being followed. Like in 8.13 Dean had his “gay thing” with Aaron following him around, and Sam had “something stuck to my shoe,” aka their code word for “I’m being followed.” They have a LONG history of being hyperaware of their surroundings, so it took some kind of patience for Darth Kaia to wait them out like that.

Patience has a crisis of normality after watching the monster autopsy. She’s not sure she can handle the hunting life, and it’s Alex who convinces her to stay. Which is incredible because this was Alex’s crisis back in 11.12 when her own history caught up with her at a time when all she wanted was to be normal, to go to school and have a boyfriend and maybe go to nursing school. She didn’t want anything to do with monsters or hunting, as she and Claire talked about earlier at the hospital, but she’s found a balance that she can live with. She knows she can truly help Jody by helping with the hunting stuff when she can, and that it doesn’t have to be her entire life like it is for Claire. She can do both! And she also knows her limits. Alex isn’t a fighter for the most part, and Patience doesn’t have to be either. They can each have an important place there, though. “We help in other ways.”

As Patience is packing her car to leave, she has another vision of Jody’s house being overrun by monsters. Claire wants to stay and fight, but Patience argues back that they can’t win. And hooboy this is a fascinating parallel to 3.12, in about six different ways. RIP Victor Henriksen. Patience laying down the truth to Claire, and then using an interesting bit of technology to demonstrate the truth of the situation, much as Dean laid the truth out for Victor and Sam used an interesting bit of technology to trap and exorcise a gaggle of demons all at once.

For Sam and Dean, 3.12 also marked one of the points in the show where they were officially declared legally “dead.” It was a turning point for them, which in a strange way freed them up to do their jobs more effectively with far less concern over interference from human authorities, so they could focus on the monsters. In a way, this moment functions in a similar fashion for Patience, not that she’s going to be cut off from society as drastically as Dean and Sam were, but as a liberation of sorts, and an affirmation to herself that her visions are as important to the group as Claire’s fighting skills or Alex’s nursing skills. They all have a role to play. This just helps her find her way to it.

In some ways it’s also reminiscent of 3.15, and the trap Dean left for Bela at their motel, similar to the trap Aragorn helps the hobbits lay for the Ringwraiths in Bree. These monsters aren’t so much fooled by a trap, or decoy bodies left in beds, but they do arrive to an empty house while their quarry has managed to flee. I think this tactic has been used elsewhere in Supernatural, but since I’m just about at the halfway point of the episode and this essay is already nearing 3500 words, I figure I should probably try to be more concise...

Me… more concise. Talk about your freaky AU scenarios…

Whatever. Claire watches the monsters tear up Jody’s house via webcam, and she gets a sudden, shocking, undeniable lesson in the reliability of Patience’s visions, which brings to bear the full weight of the vision that brought her home in the first place, and the reasons that Jody was so terrified for Claire’s safety. For the first time all day, Claire is rattled. It’s one thing to go through life as a hunter knowing how hunters typically end up (and hello all 39 iterations of Dean’s “point of a blade or barrel of a gun” speech), but to know specifically how you’re going to die is entirely different. This was s3 Dean with the ticking clock to Hellhound Day. This was Sam during the Hell Trials.

And enter the D-Train. The ray of sunshine so chill that butter doesn’t melt in her mouth. And like the monster that signalled her first REAL introduction to the supernatural back in 10.08, Jody introduces her as someone who’s killed a lot of vampires. To think Claire wondered when they all became huggers before… “You too, Rainbow Brite. Come on, bring it in.” Donna brought the hugs. And the angel wing imagery behind her in this scene, combined with her nice tan coat. She’s our angel; our sunshine, as it were. And armed to the teeth (just the basics, because she’s from Minnesota).

Alex proves yet again that she’s an excellent Sam parallel, using the phone and Kaia’s vague clues to find the exact location where the rift opened. Please oh please let Alex have the same sort of Magical Wifi that Sam does. :P

When Jody and Donna leave to investigate the shipyard, Jody has Claire stay behind to protect the other girls, much like John used to do with Dean, ordering him to protect Sam. I mean, it has nowhere NEAR the sort of ick factor to John doing that in the flashback scenes in 1.18, for example, but there has been a consistent implication throughout the series that it was a constant state for Dean, and thank HECK this dynamic between Jody and Claire is shattered by the end of this episode.

Jody’s actually surprised when Claire agrees to stay and protect the other girls without much of a fight, because of what Patience’s vision might mean for her, as I mentioned above.

Donna asking who knows how to use a flamethrower… honestly Dean would be jealous. He and Sam have always had their jury-rigged camping fuel flamethrowers when they’ve needed literal firepower like in 3.02 and 4.05 among others.

Speaking of Sam and Dean, back in the Bad Place, Sam’s finally figuring out that they’re in an entirely different universe, and Dean’s annoyed by how muddy it is. Which was a rather hilarious reversal of Sam’s reaction to stepping in horse poop the moment they landed in Sunrise, Wyoming in 1861 way back in 6.18. Sam complained about the state of his boot, and Dean was all excited because AUTHENTICITY! But he’d been wearing his lil cowboy costume at the time, and we know how much Dean loves cowboys, despite the fact that he was far less enamored with “authenticity” and how much germier it was than he’d been expecting… but once he adapted his expectations back in 6.18, he kinda stepped right into the role of sheriff, just like he’s able to adapt to Purgatory and to eating monster lizard despite the germiness factor. He’s a delightful but thoroughly consistent bundle of contradictions, and I love him.

Enter Darth Kaia, who catches them entirely unaware and off guard. They were entirely convinced that the only potential danger to them in this world was whatever huge thing they kept hearing in the distance. They hadn’t run into any of the creepy Monster Autopsy critters that constantly plagued Kaia in The Bad Place, and after two days, it’s entirely understandable that they would begin to let their guard down at least a little bit. Heck, it’s like Westley and Buttercup in the Fire Swamp, except nobody ever told them about the ROUS’s. When Darth Kaia sprang out of nowhere at them in full-on kung fu attack mode with a spear, they were honestly lucky to survive. They’d been flung as far from the portal into that world as Kaia was flung out to that abandoned roadside where the ambulance found her and had picked a random direction to wander in search of a portal the size of a party streamer in an entirely foreign universe. A portal they weren’t entirely sure was still there to find in the first place. Everything about their situation had them on their heels for once, even more so than Purgatory did for Dean (where he was at least expecting to be attacked from the moment he landed, by a pack of red-eyed monsters he later referred to as “gorilla wolves” in 8.02). And funny that the Big Monster in the Bad Place has a skull that vaguely resembles a gorilla, and the smaller red-eyed monsters were scripted as “Canids,” aka “dog-like monsters.” Again, in so many ways, The Bad Place is similar in design and function to Purgatory.

Back at the abandoned shipyard, Jody and Donna find the Impala and know they’ve found the right place. They find the melted angel blade and scorched angel wings from 13.09, as well as the portal, but encounter a very large pack of the “Canids.”

Claire and Kaia have another heart to heart reminiscent of some of Dean and Cas’s conversations. Claire expresses some of the same sorts of self-doubt and fear that Dean did at the end of 4.16 while lying in the hospital bed, telling Cas it’s too big, and he can’t do it. But Claire feels she can’t stand back and let others handle this alone. Kaia encourages her with, “If you go, I’ll go with you.” And how many times have we heard Dean and Cas offer this to each other? Very recently in Dean’s offer to accompany Cas to his angel meeting in 13.07. But also highly notably in 11.23 when Cas offered to go with Dean to face Amara. In situations large and small, they have offered to go with each other. But unlike the majority of Dean and Cas’s I’ll go with you’s, Claire accepts Kaia’s offer. They DO stand together. They ACCEPT the help and support. (Can we please have this gradually begin to happen with Cas and Dean? I mean, even something small like Dean running out to pick up pizza or something, and Cas offers to go with him, and Dean’s like YES GOOD I WOULD LIKE THAT.)

“Maybe together we can save them.”

Meanwhile at the rift, Donna wants to go back and tell the girls they found it, but Jody is ready to go into the rift alone. “If I don’t, she will.” She knows Claire would run into danger to do what she believed was right. That’s how you save people, after all. But here we see into what’s motivating Jody to protect Claire from danger-- “I can’t lose another child.” And I know I mentioned this about 3k words ago, but the Canids pose an immediate threat and Jody is forced to turn back from running headlong into the rift the way she was trying to prevent Claire from doing. This motivation to self-sacrifice to save someone else-- a child-- is what motivated John’s deal with Azazel in 2.01 in exchange for Dean’s life, and what motivated Dean to sell his own soul in 2.22 in exchange for Sam’s life. Jody’s only saved by circumstance, but it gives her a chance to step back and reevaluate that choice, and to see Claire clearly, to let go of her need to protect Claire at all cost.

Back in the Bad Place, Sam and Dean come to tied to a couple of trees in a foggy forest. I feel like yelling, “I hope your apple pie is freaking worth it!” because this feels just like 1.11. Instead of being sacrificed to the scarecrow, they’re being sacrificed to the Kaiju.

Meanwhile Claire has tried to call Jody, but when Jody doesn’t answer, Claire goes immediately into Concerned Mode. All four girls unite immediately into “Together we can save them” mode. And it’s beautiful.

Donna and Jody take refuge in an abandoned car aboard the ship, lying across the front and back seats in a configuration identical to the way Sam and Dean slept in 11.04-- the Winchester Motel. But instead of a cooler full of beer, Jody and Donna have a swarm of Canids trying to figure out how to get at them.

(wherein we discover that Canids are really not the smartest monsters…)

If they make a run for it, they’re dead, but if they stay put they’re dead too. Kinda feels like a situation typical of Supernatural, yes? What they need is a miraculous intervention.

*enter the flamethrower*

And Claire is so chill and competent with her flamethrower that it brings a smile to Jody’s face. And in that moment she might still hate the whole idea of it, but she knows she’s gonna let Claire go through that portal without too much fuss… especially after she realizes that the portal is shrinking. Claire tries to run through it and Jody holds her back, though not to stop her. To tell her she knows. Jody understands. As much as Claire needed to save Sam and Dean, Jody needed her to know that she understood.

Donna, ray of sunshine and weapons training officer. OKIE DOKE, HERE YA GO. and then “Oh there he is! Hiya, buddy!” When there was just ONE Canid, but Donna absolutely does not lose her cool when she sees it’s a veritable swarm of the things coming at them. Bless. “Okie doke” reminded me so much of that security guard in 2.12 that Dean liked because he said “okie dokie.”

Kaia knows right where Sam and Dean probably are in the Bad Place, just from the sound of the Kaiju monster. Claire shows up and cuts Sam and Dean free in a circumstance reminiscent of Sam showing up to cut Dean and Emily free in 1.11.

At the portal, Kaia shoves Claire out of the way just in time to save her from Darth Kaia’s spear, and instead she takes the spear wound to her own side. Need I even bring up all the Fisher King symbolism here that was so incredibly prominent in s12 surrounding Cas? The comparison has already been made to Ramiel stabbing Cas with the Lance of Michael, but it wasn’t just that one episode that draped Cas in Fisher King/Wounded King parallels. I believe many of those also apply to Kaia…

As she lay there dying, she reaches out and grabs hold of Claire’s hand while Sam and Dean have drawn their angel blades to stand off against the now apparently disarmed Darth Kaia. Except that’s when the Kaiju shows up…

Claire ignores her own safety in the face of that much larger threat, and charges at Darth Kaia in a fit of rage/grief over Kaia’s apparent death, and Dean has to grab her and pull her through the portal just as it snaps closed. Cue the parallel to Dean dragging Sam away from Jess’s burning bedroom ceiling in 1.01, and Sam pulling Dean through this exact same sort of portal in 12.23 when he was struggling to run after Cas.

Meanwhile Patience struggles to understand the vision that brought her to Jody’s in the first place-- Claire’s “death.” The editing of this scene is spectacular-- cuts between Kaia’s body in the Bad Place, Claire in Jody’s arms both in Patience’s vision and in reality, and Patience herself putting all of these pieces together. Death, life, and what she believed was a death was actually profound grief… and again this has been a theme of s13 through Sam refusing to grieve for Mary and his belief that she was not only alive but that they could save her, Dean’s grief over Cas’s death that he believed was permanent, to the point he’d lost all hope for anything and was ready to die in 13.05 until Death herself told him he still had work to do.

Whatever the truth of what’s happened to Kaia, there is absolutely work to do here, as well.

Dean says “I tried talking to her.” Not “we” but “I.” He’s beginning to use the proper words here. This issue has been going on for a loooong time, where Dean phrases things in terms of “we,” such as in 11.23 during the infamous Beer Run, telling Cas he’s like “our brother,” and always couching his feelings as inclusive of Sam as well. This was nicely lampshaded in 12.20 by Max Banes calling Alicia out on her attempt to do the same thing, and in 13.07 Dean FINALLY told Cas “I’ll go with you,” instead of “we’ll go with you.” The fact that Dean is talking about himself like this regarding anything even in the same arena as emotional issues is just… fantastic all around.

Claire feels responsible for Kaia’s death, after promising to protect her. She feels she failed, and that that was the reason Kaia was killed. Jody doesn’t dismiss any of Claire’s feelings or try to talk her out of them (the way Sam and Dean have done for, like, ever), only offers her unconditional support whenever Claire’s ready to accept it.

Cleaning up after the Canids tore up the house, Patience has a lil moment of shock over the fact she killed a monster. Donna smiles knowingly and Alex chuckles and says, “Welcome to the family.” Like Claire said in the cold open, “I kill monsters, that’s who the hell I am.” Well, that’s what this whole family is. They save people and they kill monsters.

Darth Kaia has opened a rift to our world, in the middle of a park reminiscent to the place where Mary turned up in 12.01… opening about a million other mysteries along with that rift.

I know I didn’t cover all the parallels. That probably wouldn’t be possible considering how many times the show has looped back around on itself thematically and narratively, but I think I hit all the big ones here. Now how the hell do I even begin tagging this?

‿︵‿︵‿︵‿ヽ(°□° )ノ︵‿︵‿︵‿︵

[helloworlddemo1122-yahoopar-blog]

Summer Film Preview: 27 of the Most Anticipated Movies of the Season!

Among ET's 90 top picks for summer are our 27 most anticipated films of the season.

Every summer, there is no shortage of new films to blow audiences away at theaters -- and blow away records at the box office. This summer, things are looking especially massive. Blockbuster season kicks off in a huge way with the highly anticipated back-to-back releases of Deadpool 2and Solo: A Star Wars Story, ushering in an onslaught of franchise films with new installments of Jurassic World, Marvel's Ant-Man, Mission: Impossible and The Purge.

Not everything is a sequel, though. Of the originals is the eagerly awaited adaptation of Crazy Rich Asians, marking the first time a major studio has produced an all-Asian-led film since The Joy Luck Club; Spike Lee's latest, BlacKkKlansman; and -- because it wouldn't be summer without one -- a shark attack flick, The Meg, starring Jason Statham.

But no matter what you’re looking forward to, there's plenty to choose from among these 27 sure-to-be hit films.

Deadpool 2 (Out Now)

The Deadpool sequel is bigger, louder and packed with more violence and superpeople, dick jokes and fourth wall-breaking meta-ness than the original X-Men-adjacent movie. And while that all sounds like a recipe for a bloated case of sequelitis, Ryan Reynolds and co. not only pull it off, but top the first.

Directed by: David Leitch | Written by: Rhett Reese, Paul Wernick and Ryan Reynolds Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Josh Brolin, Julian Dennison, Zazie Beetz, Rob Delaney, Leslie Uggams

Solo: A Star Wars Story (May 25)

Forget everything you think you know about the legendary smuggler and prepare for the unexpected. That's the best advice we can give you about Star Wars' latest anthology installment, which, sure, features the Kessel Run and Han Solo and Chewbacca's origin story, then blasts off for so much more.

Directed by: Ron Howard | Written by: Jonathan Kasdan and Lawrence Kasdan Starring: Alden Ehrenreich, Donald Glover, Woody Harrelson, Thandie Newton, Emilia Clarke

American Animals (June 1)

The Orchard / MoviePass Ventures

According to the minds behind American Animals, while most movies are based on a true story, this one is a true story, about four college students who plan "one of the most audacious art heists in U.S. history." It also marks the first appearance on this list by the true star of the summer movie season: Ann Dowd.

Directed by: Bart Layton | Written by: Bart Layton Starring: Evan Peters, Barry Keoghan, Blake Jenner, Jared Abrahamson, Ann Dowd

Hereditary (June 8)

A24

Following its screening at Sundance earlier this year, Hereditary was hailed as the scariest horror movie in years -- if not of all time. As for what actually transpires in the film, well, that is best left vague. Brace yourself for hypnotically unnerving tongue pops and flashbacks to Toni Collette's iconic turn in The Sixth Sense.

Directed by: Ari Aster | Written by: Ari Aster Starring: Toni Collette, Gabriel Byrne, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro, Ann Dowd

Ocean's 8 (June 8)

This year's Met Gala might as well have been early promo for Ocean's 8, which centers on another heist-happy Ocean, Debbie, who assembles a team of women to help rob a fictional Met Gala. (If you do some simple math, it seems Anne Hathaway's mark is one of the eight, too.) Unfortunately, Rihanna will likely not be dressed as a sexy pope.

Directed by: Gary Ross | Written by: Gary Ross and Olivia Milch Starring: Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Awkwafina, Helena Bonham Carter, Rihanna

Won't You Be My Neighbor? (June 8)

Focus Features

If you were a child in the '60s -- or '70s, '80s, '90s, the aughts, really, if you were a child ever -- then Won't You Be My Neighbor? will be a nostalgic return to your younger years, a look at the long-running and formative TV series Mister Rogers' Neighborhood and the man behind it, the late Fred Rogers.

Directed by: Morgan Neville

Hearts Beat Loud (June 8)

Gunpowder & Sky

This gem of an indie is for anyone who has ever wished Nick Offerman could be your best friend, your dad or both: Kiersey Clemons plays Offerman's daughter and reluctant bandmate as they navigate fame and family in Hearts Beat Louder. Sprinkle in a queer romance and an earworm-y soundtrack, and what more could you ask for?

Directed by: Brett Haley | Written by: Brett Haley and Marc Basch Starring: Nick Offerman, Kiersey Clemons, Ted Danson, Toni Collette, Sasha Lane, Blythe Danner

Hotel Artemis (June 8)

Global Road Entertainment

Read this logline: "Set in riot-torn, near-future Los Angeles, Hotel Artemis is a high-octane action-thriller starring Jodie Foster as The Nurse, who runs a secret, members-only hospital for criminals." Now re-read that sentence over and over and over until you go insane and this becomes your most anticipated movie of the year.

Directed by: Drew Pearce | Written by: Drew Pearce Starring: Jodie Foster, Dave Bautista, Sofia Boutella, Zachary Quinto, Sterling K. Brown, Jeff Goldblum

Incredibles 2 (June 15)

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

It has been well over a decade since the original Incredibles arrived in theaters and, even now, under the looming threat of superhero saturation, that first film remains one of the best superhero movies period. Finally, Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, Violet, Dash and Jack-Jack are back, with Frozone and, of course, Edna.

Directed by: Brad Bird | Written by: Brad Bird Starring: Holly Hunter, Craig T. Nelson, Samuel L. Jackson, Catherine Keener, Sophia Bush

Tag (June 15)

Warner Bros. Pictures

This is a movie about tag -- as in, the game in which you tag someone and they are then "it." Specifically, Tag is about a group of childhood buddies who have been playing tag one month out of the year, every year, for 30 years. If you are wondering, Where do they come up with this?!, it was a Wall Street Journal article.

Directed by: Jeff Tomsic | Written by: Rob McKittrick and Mark Steilen Starring: Jeremy Renner, Ed Helms, Jake Johnson, Jon Hamm, Hannibal Buress, Isla Fisher, Leslie Bibb

Damsel (June 22)

Magnolia Pictures

If you hear that Robert Pattinson is starring in a Western, you probably have a notion of what that film is. Damsel is not the movie you're imagining, guaranteed -- unless, of course, you pictured a screwball comedy about a pioneer who voyages west with a drunkard and a miniature horse named Butterscotch.

Directed by: David Zellner and Nathan Zellner | Written by: David Zellner and Nathan Zellner Starring: Robert Pattinson, Mia Wasikowska, David Zellner

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (June 22)

In the colossally successful Jurassic World, the dinosaurs destroyed the park, as dinosaurs are wont to do, and now Isla Nublar is threatening to destroy the dinosaurs. Thus, Claire and Owen are enlisted to help save the dinosaurs from a second extinction -- and that's only the beginning of this adventure.

Directed by: J.A. Bayona | Written by: Colin Trevorrow and Derek Connolly Starring: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, Jeff Goldblum, James Cromwell, Justice Smith

Under the Silver Lake (June 22)

A24

Something about those hot summer nights must make us itch for a mystery, because this is yet another noir-y flick arriving in cineplexes, albeit a very modern take on the genre. Andrew Garfield plays a stoner Angelino who begins sleuthing when his dream girl disappears in the middle of the night without a trace.

Directed by: David Robert Mitchell | Written by: David Robert Mitchell Starring: Andrew Garfield, Riley Keough, Topher Grace, Jimmi Simpson

The First Purge (July 4)

Universal Pictures

There's something almost comforting about knowing that every (sometimes every other) Independence Day brings a new installment in the ongoing Purge franchise. Who knew a nutty little murder flick could have so much steam? This one goes back to the beginning and the invention of a government-sponsored killing spree.

Directed by: Gerard McMurray | Written by: James DeMonaco Starring: Lex Scott Davis, Y'lan Noel, Luna Lauren Velez, Joivan Wade, Marisa Tomei

Ant-Man and the Wasp (July 6)

Consider the Ant-Man sequel a respite for those still reeling over the ending of Infinity War, a plucky comedic romp about heroes who shrink, supersize and now fly, too, which probably won't leave you frantically wiping away tears as the theater lights come on. Also, Michelle Pfeiffer plays a superhero!

Directed by: Peyton Reed | Written by: Chris McKenna, Erik Sommers, Andrew Barrer and Gabriel Ferrari and Paul Rudd Starring: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lilly, Michael Douglas, Michelle Pfeiffer, Hannah John-Kamen, Michael Peña

Sorry to Bother You (July 6)

Annapurna Pictures

There is original, and then there is Sorry to Bother You. If a stranger, more out-there film has ever been made, I haven't seen it. I've never seen anything like this, a satiric tale about a telemarketer who uses his "white voice" to get ahead that feels at once painstakingly plotted and completely free-associated.

Directed by: Boots Riley | Written by: Boots Riley Starring: Lakeith Stanfield, Tessa Thompson, Jermaine Fowler, Steven Yeun, Armie Hammer

Whitney (July 6)

Whitney is not the first documentary to turn the lens on Whitney Houston in the years since her 2012 death, but it is the first to be endorsed by her estate, featuring interviews with loved ones of Houston who had never spoken publicly before and bombshell revelations that made news ahead of Whitney's official release.

Directed by: Kevin Macdonald

Eighth Grade (July 13)

A24

You know how adults always say, "I'm so happy I didn't grow up when there was social media." Watch this Sundance drama, comedian Bo Burnham's directorial debut, and feel that tenfold, alternately a cringey and heartwarming look at what it means to be coming into your own -- yes, with YouTube and Twitter.

Directed by: Bo Burnham | Written by: Bo Burnham Starring: Elsie Fisher, Josh Hamilton

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (July 20)

Is Meryl Streep's character still alive for the Mamma Mia! sequel? Supposedly. We do know that we will see a younger version of Donna (played by Lily James) as the ABBA singalong jumps back in time to show the Dynamos' origin story, while in the present, Donna's daughter is pregnant with a baby of her own.

Directed by: Ol Parker | Written by: Ol Parker Starring: Amanda Seyfried, Meryl Streep, Christine Baranski, Julie Walters, Lily James, Colin Firth, Cher

Mission: Impossible - Fallout (July 27)

Paramount Pictures

After successfully completing five other supposedly impossible missions, whatever Ethan Hunt is tasked with in Fallout should be considered mission: pretty difficult but manageable. Still, Tom Cruise continues to up the ante in insane and preposterous ways, like jumping out of a plane at 25,000 feet, for one.

Directed by: Christopher McQuarrie | Written by: Christopher McQuarrie Starring: Tom Cruise, Rebecca Ferguson, Alec Baldwin, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames, Henry Cavill, Angela Bassett

Christopher Robin (Aug. 3)

If you enjoyed last year's period drama Goodbye Christopher Robin, about the real boy who inspired the creation of Winnie the Pooh, then you are sure to enjoy this, too, Disney's less historical, more fantastical tale about grown-up Christopher Robin and how Pooh and the rest of the Hundred Acre Wood gang help him rediscover his imagination.

Directed by: Marc Forster | Written by: Alex Ross Perry Starring: Ewan McGregor, Hayley Atwell, Jim Cummings, Chris O'Dowd, Brad Garrett, Toby Jones

The Spy Who Dumped Me (Aug. 3)

I would pay money to watch Kate McKinnon read the phone book. Thankfully, she gets much more to do in this action-comedy, in which Mila Kunis plays the unwitting woman dumped by a spy. McKinnon plays her bestie, and the two quickly find themselves in over their heads trying to stop a terrorist group and save the world.

Directed by: Susanna Fogel | Written by: David Iserson and Susanna Fogel Starring: Mila Kunis, Kate McKinnon, Sam Heughan, Gillian Anderson, Justin Theroux

BlacKkKlansman (Aug. 10)

Focus Features

Spike Lee is back with his latest joint, the so-crazy-it-must-be-true saga of Ron Stallworth, the first black police officer in Colorado Springs, and his undercover operation to infiltrate a local Ku Klux Klan chapter, which was so successful that he eventually became its head.

Directed by: Spike Lee | Written by: Spike Lee, David Rabinowitz, Charlie Wachtel, Kevin Willmott Starring: John David Washington, Adam Driver, Topher Grace, Laura Harrier

The Meg (Aug. 10)

Warner Bros. Pictures

No summer is complete without a silly shark attack movie, and for the summer of 2018, The Meg fits that bill and then some. First of all, the shark in question is a megalodon, which basically just means a REALLY BIG F**KING SHARK, and hopefully Jason Statham will punch it at some point, right?

Directed by: Jon Turteltaub | Written by: Dean Georgaris, Jon Hoeber and Erich Hoeber Starring: Jason Statham, Ruby Rose, Rainn Wilson, Bingbing Li, Cliff Curtis, Masi Oka

Crazy Rich Asians (Aug. 17)

Based on the bestselling novel by Kevin Kwan, Crazy Rich Asians is about a Chinese American professor who travels to Singapore to meet her boyfriend's family and discovers they are -- you guessed it -- crazy rich! Hijinks ensue. This is also the first Hollywood movie with a majority Asian cast in 25 years, i.e., crazy overdue.

Directed by: Jon M. Chu | Written by: Peter Chiarelli and Adele Lim Starring: Constance Wu, Henry Golding, Awkwafina, Gemma Chan, Michelle Yeoh, Ken Jeong

To All the Boys I've Loved Before (Aug. 17)

Netflix

Here's one YA fans have been waiting for. Based on the bestselling novel by Jenny Han, the title refers to letters our heroine, Lara Jean Covey, writes to her past crushes, love letters they are never meant to see -- but do, after they're accidentally mailed out. You don't need to head to the cinema to swoon over this one; it's streaming on Netflix.

Directed by: Susan Johnson | Written by: Sofia Alvarez Starring: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Janel Parrish, Emilija Baranac, Israel Broussard, John Corbett

The Happytime Murders (Aug. 17)

Nothing says summertime like puppets snorting ecstasy and soliciting sex. The Happytime Murders -- no lie, from the same director as The Muppet Christmas Carol and Muppet Treasure Island -- is about police partners, one felt and one Melissa McCarthy, investigating who is shooting the stuffing out of puppets.

Directed by: Brian Henson | Written by: Todd Berger Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Elizabeth Banks, Maya Rudolph, Joel McHale

MORE SUMMER PREVIEW:

Summer TV Preview: 26 of the Best New and Returning Series to Watch!

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[highwayoflife]

L’épisode du requin. De retour dans la baie d’Akumal, on profite d’une visibilité exceptionnelle pour pousser une session de snorkeling dans la mer des caraïbes, un peu plus au large de la plage. Environ 300 mètres. C’est déjà pas mal, pour nous… On n’est pas loin des bateaux qui lâchent les plongeurs du dimanche, sauf qu’on est venus à la nage. Beaucoup de rochers, des coraux, une eau parfaitement limpide. Pas de dispositif pour enregistrer, on peut se concentrer sur l’exploration et notre effort.

Au contournement d’un rocher. La rencontre. A moins de 10 mètres, aucun doute : un requin. Il fait plus  de 2m00, c’est clair. Un sacré gros poisson ! C’est d’abord Julien qui le croise. Gaby est prévenue. Elle le voit. Le requin fait demi-tour. Et nous aussi. On reprend nos esprits, la curiosité nous fait revenir sur nos “pas”. Dommage, il est parti. On a d’abord eu peur. On a ensuite eu envie d’observer. Mais il était plus là ! Du coup on récupère une photo sur internet pour les archives. Niveau visibilité, taille, c’était ça, sauf qu’il y avait pas mal de rochers.

Mais la photo dans la tête est claire : deux ailerons, une forme allongée, une tête assez incisive. On fait quelques recherches : on reconnaît la bête, c’est un “Nurse Shark”. Pas un méchant. Un requin de récif, qu’on trouve notamment dans les caraïbes, il peut faire jusqu’à 4 mètres. Il vit entre la surface et 1m50 d’eau. Et dort beaucoup, notamment dans les rochers. C’est clair, on l’a réveillé ce jour là.

C’est pas exceptionnel de croiser un requin dans une zone de récifs et de coraux, c’est même plutôt normal si on passe du temps dans l’eau, alors on s’était préparés depuis longtemps à faire cette rencontre, qu’on attendait un petit peu, pour tout dire, au niveau statistique… A Hawaii, il y avait de grandes chances, mais non… Un peu au Costa Rica aussi du côté de Cahuita. C’est à Akumal qu’on a passé le plus de temps dans la mer dans ce long voyage, il y a des récifs, des coraux, on est allé un peu plus loin que d’habitude… Donc c’est ici qu’on avait le plus de chances d’en voir un, en vrai. 

Une grande première, alors on est très contents :), il manquait clairement dans le bestiaire du projet, et c’est une créature qu’on rêvait tous les deux d’observer :). Bon, la rencontre a été brève.  C’est pas le même effet de le voir à quelques mètres qu’au travers de la vitre d'un aquarium. Ce jour là, on a eu beaucoup de chances, en croisant une grande raie, une belle tortue, et pleins de poissons. C’était la fête !

[deancasbigbang]

Title: The Family Business Author: punkascas Artist: Coplins Rating: Explicit Pairings: Dean/Cas (background Dean/Others, Cas/Others) Warnings/Tags: Graphic Depictions of Violence, Murder Husbands, Rough Sex, Mental Health Issues, Non-Graphic References to Underage, Boxing, Jealousy, Pining, Dean and Cas Raise Claire, Angst with a Happy Ending Posting Date: 11/6/2017

Summary:   Chicago, 1941. With the 1930s over and war in Europe threatening to involve the US, the crime bosses of the Prohibition Era should be dead and gone. But Dean and Castiel Winchester—better known as the Winchester Brothers, along with their gang, The Family Corporation—refuse to be relegated to history. Over the years,, they've managed to build a small but stable criminal empire in Chicago. The newspapers hail them as the gangster prodigies of Al Capone and Baby Face Nelson: crime lords for a modern era.   Politicians like to carouse with the criminal and celebrity elite at Dean Winchester's nightclub. Police line the pockets of his coat, from petty beat cops all the way to captains of the force. No one's talking. No one can seem to stop them.   Except maybe one man. Special Agent Sam Campbell knows all about the so-called Winchester Brothers. Years ago he swore as his personal mission to bring them down, ever since he recognized a face in an old newspaper photo. That was the day he learned that his brother Dean was still alive.

- - -

Before they left Chicago, Dean pulled Meg into his office and demanded she tell him how to make Cas better. How to fix him. He threw out every possibility he could think of: better drugs, different drugs, more drugs. More boys. Whatever it would take to keep Cas calm, content, contained.

He remembers the pristine white of Meg’s nurse’s uniform seemed almost blinding under the office lamps. She looked him straight in the eye and offered him the hammer needed to pound the final nail in Cas’s coffin.

“You really think his diagnosis is the issue?”

“I need him stable,” Dean growled back at her. “I need him goddamn predictable. We’re running a business here.”

Meg only gave him a pitying smirk. “When has Clarence ever been predictable? You should know. Out of anyone, you have the most perversive knowledge of him.”

His revolver rested on some papers. Idly he picked it up, cradling it against his chest while he kicked his heels up on the desk, and wielded his most charming grin. That was the true weapon here. Green eyes, and wide, white shark teeth.

“Pervasive. I think you meant to say. The Family Corporation doesn’t appreciate the spreading of unsubstantiated and scandalizing rumors, Miss Masters. We’re a polite society here. Gossip is rude. And bad for business. And while I can be a gentleman, I am resolutely a businessman first.”

His thumb cocked the pistol’s hammer back slowly. He relished how loud a quiet sound could be in a tiny room.

“Of course, Mr. Winchester,” Meg simpered in false flattery. She wasn’t the type of dame to be intimidated. It was one of the qualities that let her prevail as Cas’s nurse. She planted her palms on the center of his desk, leaning into his space, into the threat of the gun. “But if you’re hoping those pills the doctors prescribe or those boys he parades around the club are the answer, you’ll be sadly disappointed. Castiel, he’s a force of nature, and nature is never predictable, Winchester. Nature can never play by the rules of gentlemen. So what you’re asking me is not how to curb some misbehavior, but how to stop Castiel from being Castiel. And I think we both know there’s only one solution to that.”

Her eyes were dark, glittering with contempt, but there was also that same sad resignation that had been in Rufus’s eyes. In Bobby’s. In Benny’s. A look that said they all knew a truth Dean was too sentimental to admit to himself.

“Get out,” he told her then, and threw the revolver against the door once it closed behind her. It hadn’t been loaded in the first place.

Far from Chicago, Dean looks at Cas as they are now: at the curve of his bare shoulder; at the shapes of the muscles in his arm; at the way his trousers slope low around his hips. Cas of course is too distracted to pull them up. It’s a sight Dean has known since what feels like the moment he first knew consciousness. Fingers curled loosely around his forgotten cigar, grey winter smoke for a grey winter sky, Cas has gone lost himself in thought at the window.

Here they could be anyone. Two pseudonyms in an anonymous hotel room. They could go anywhere. Away from Chicago. From the gang. From business. Dean could live his thirties the same way he lived the first three decades of his life, with Cas as the dark center around which his world spins.

Or.

Or.

[katiezstorey93]

Final season of ‘Rizzoli & Isles,’ ‘Homeland’s’ fifth season on DVD :: WRAL.com

3 Pictures

By Chris Hicks, Deseret Information

Among television shows on Blu-ray and DVD “Rizzoli this week & Isles” systems points up and also “Homeland”’s season paves the way in which for that sixth period, that will be on Showtime today.

“Rizzoli & Isles: The Seventh and Ultimate Season” (Warner, 2016, three disks, 13 attacks, bloopers). As their last season starts, Ma police investigator Jane Rizzoli (Angie Harmon) and her closest friend and co worker, medical examiner Maura Isles (Sasha Alexander), are spinning in the sixth periodis cliffhanger firing in the wedding of Korsak and Kiki (Bruce McGill, Christina Chang). Linda is sure the drug-dealer/monster Sands (Gish) was accountable and he or she sets to lure her. Debates having surgery.

Instances that are additional incorporate the killing of the postal employee and also a homicide in a zombie conference, and also the occurrence that is ultimate properly wraps up the sequence, supplying both closing and fresh possibilities to the figures. Bracco co stars and visitors contain Sharon Gless Lawrence and also the writer of the “Rizzoli Isles” novels.

“Homeland: The Entire Fifth Season” (Fox, 2016, three disks, 12 attacks, featurettes). 2 yrs following the occasions of the next period, Carrie (Claire Danes) isn’t any longer using the CIA and it is alternatively proceeding up a personal protection company in Berlin and attempting to begin over as she boosts her child having a new sweetheart. But, together with her, her past draws up obviously as she becomes involved with a lethal conspiracy.

It ought to be described that, this being the required R-rated, fully a Showtime manufacturing intercourse, nudity assault and dialect are available. Co stars contain Rupert Buddy, Y, Miranda Otto. Murray Abraham. (The sixth period started Jan. 15 on Showtime.)

“Searching for Augusta: The Neglected Angel of Bastogne” (PBS, 2016). During World War II, Augusta Chiwy was a dark Belgian nurse who, within the encounter of racial discrimination, offered like a medical help offer within the U.S. Military 10th Armored Division. In the Fight of the Fat, she handled individuals within the Bastogne help section with other Renee LeMaire. But after LeMaire was murdered on Christmas Event and turned well-known as Angel of Bastogne , background was overlooked until she was discovered by military King in Brussels. This function- this past year size documentary, with involvement, gained an Emmy.

“Pearl Harbor: in to The Arizona” (PBS, 2016). This hourlong documentary utilizes today’s technology to-go within the USS Arizona, that has been resting on Pearl Harbor’s sea ground because it was ruined within the Western assault in 1941. Incorporated are individual tales including one that is delivered to see final time to the dispatch one.

“WordWorld: Let’s Make Audio!” (PBS Children, 2007-09, eight attacks). Shark is a superb ballerina that is marine and Goose promotes his display to be danced on by him. Additional storylines will also be on the list of attacks for preschoolers within this one- . This academic lively display works on building confidence and appearing phrases out.

Bob Hicks is ” Has Its Brain Been Shed by Hollywood? A Parent’s Manual to Film Rankings.” Www.hicksflicks.com is also written at by him and certainly will be approached at @deseretnews.com that is hicks.

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