#despite this i try my best to keep it consistent 😅����

[moe-broey]

Also having to tag all those Pokemon characters really emphasizes how bullshit my tagging system is LMFAOOOO LIKE.

Character has a common and/or name you'd hear irl -> Okay I have to establish which game/franchise. Character has a relatively uncommon name -> They are the only character ever with that name and I'm going to tag them as such. OR similarly, esp in Pokemon's case: Character has a unique name made specifically for them -> They are the only character ever with that name and I'm going to tag them as such (real this time).

And the lines are NOT clear it is all vibes. Which honestly has led to the funny fe alfonse tag as if I'm calling him Mr. Lastname meanwhile Sharena is Sharena my best friend Sharena. LITERALLY feels like I'm on a first name basis w her and NOT her brother LMFAOOOOO

[nukenai]

I did so much fun traveling and attending events in 2024. I took official full ownership of my house, buying out my shitty uncle who I hope dies. I made wonderful improvements to the house and so many more are yet to come (new bathroom very soon!!)

My trips were like. Disney twice. Because the second one was during Halcycon which in itself was insane. I went to Connecticon and TFCon and I think this had to be the best TFCon yet (Orlando might beat it a little bit just bc it was in Florida and was warm).

I went to FUCKING HAWAII for Pokemon Worlds and had the time of my life despite having poison ivy the whole time. I had such a great time I legit keep forgetting about the poison ivy. Stuff like napping on a beach after snorkeling with tropical fish makes you forget about your arms itching. Except I keep getting texts from the pharmacy in Honolulu about refilling the prescription LOLLLL

In 2025 I plan on taking a Disney trip for my birthday!! It's actually ON Memorial Day this time so that means a fun special free day off!! Whoo!! I may be attending Halcycon again so that would mean at least a day in Batuu of course. It depends on how exhausted I feel because I also plan on attending TFCon in Chicago, and Connecticon is so close of course I'll go again.

I adopted my dog Fina, and my new cat Deckerd. Things are in general going pretty well!

I evicted my roommate (legally, tenant) and he moved out today, leaving a ton of shit behind. He was lying about me behind my back to make himself look like a permanent victim. He lied about things I said to him to set extremely reasonable boundaries, and had apparently more than once told people I don't take proper care of my animals (he has never had a pet in his life and has never had to consistently care for an animal on his own). He's been unemployed for a year and thinks he's above jobs like retail. He barely left the house, never spent time with his girlfriend, and never offered any additional help around the house even when I was in physical therapy for severe tendinitis and could barely use my arms. I hope he can grow up a little bit, stop pretending to be an Instagram influencer at age 32, and develop an actual genuine identity outside of thinking he's the only person allowed to cosplay as Spiderman in a purchased costume. Maybe after that I'll be interested in revisiting a friendship with him. Sucks the things you learn about people you've known for a long time. Until then I look forward to his constant bullshit social media posts where he says things like "the holidays can be hard, trust me, I know more than most" and mistreats irl friends for the sake of Instagram likes and views on his twitch streams or his weekly show where he shouts at horror movies.

Anyways. I feel proud of being able to stand up for myself like that even if it's not easy. I'm done being a doormat and being treated like I'm disposable. I'm done bending over backwards to try to maintain friendships with people who are clearly not interested in my company. I'm going to spend time with people who make it clear that they value me for who I am, which is PLENTY of people (and probably most people reading this!!). I'm going to do what I know is right for me and not let anyone dictate how I live my life. They can make their judgments all they want, because I'm secure in my life and identity!

Also. I'm gonna work on my Gunpla backlog. It's a little nuts 😅

Here's to another year of accomplishments! Gonna keep this momentum going! Good luck to everybody!

[dojae-huh]

[I'm gonna take a shot at your post asking for people's opinions on "J"!]

I was pleasantly surprised. Jaehyun showed us so many different elements of himself and I feel like I have a more accurate perception of him as an artist and a human being now that we've gotten to see where his mind goes when he's given the opportunity to express himself outside of 127

My parents raised me on 80s and 90s Soul and R&B and I was impressed by how well he was able to portray these styles of music despite not having the same level of familiarity with it as an American around his age would. However, I 100% agree with you and your recent anon about how he lacked direction. He had a vision and deep passion but it wasn't enough. The album wasn't well-defined

I don't fault him for it because, again, he's coming at it from the angle of a Korean with limited exposure, but it's something that I definitely noticed. I'm sure that as time goes on, he'll discover precisely what direction he wants to take his music in, he'll learn how to communicate his ideas consistently from start to finish, and he'll decide whether or not he wishes to keep sharpening the skills required to create R&B/Soul that is more faithful to the source but still unique to him

I haven't been keeping up with most of the pre- and post-release promotion & activities because I've been busy with work, so I unfortunately don't have much to say on that front

All in all, I deeply enjoyed what he gave us and I look forward to his future output! He has so much potential and I hope it materializes into something incredible

Oh! Another thing that I came to realize while listening is that Jaehyun is not as strong a vocalist as I initially believed him to be. In 127, it wasn't noticeable to me because their vocal coaches spend great effort ensuring that each member has parts that compliment their strengths and minimize their weaknesses. His voice is gorgeous, but when he has to carry an entire song by himself, his lack of skill in some areas becomes apparent. I experienced a similar thing when Ten's mini album came out

I asked my little sister about it (she's been following & listening to NCT since pre-debut) and she was like, "well...yeah. You haven't t noticed yet? He's never been the strongest singer, lol" I still love him, though 😅

I like your point about the lack of exposure. Or, maybe, in his case a lack of background and history associated with each subgenre of r'n'b (as he can listen to practically any song from any era now on streaming platforms). You know, how I complained about the mix of images in Smoke's concept. To break the rules one needs to perfectly know the basics first to know what to deconstract, what can be changed, what not.

(Pablo Picasso's art evolution)

Jaehyun is 27, however he doesn't have years of musical education, he explained himself he had to carve moments out of his busy schedule to songwrite and learn music composion software. So, really, can't blame him for having passion but not a clear vision. "Juvenile" is not a bad description, just a description of the first attempt. "J" is a chick, heh. There is room to grow.

Jaehyun evidently gravitates towards non-Korean music (and his best friends are all foreigners, he drank too much of that Connecticut milk, I fear), therefore we can expect him to continue the r'n'b route. Although, I think he will be more inclined to go for newer, more modern sound (further from Can't get you and closer to Horizon).

About the voice. Really? Technically, range vise or emotionally? "Completely" aside, it was out of his comfort zone. However, I think he did a good job on the rest (we are not comparing him with Do, there is a change of level, naturally). I do think his musicality is underdeveloped, but he knows (or can try and achieve) how to produce a nice fitting sound. I think his delivery makes "Easy".

[weasleywinchester]

Slow Motion - Ch. 3

I'll Never Be the Same

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5

Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw x Curvy Female Reader

Ehh ooo fam we back with another chapter of the fic that is currently keeping me from the pit of despair! Hopefully a few more updates for a few different series will be up this week since I have a consistent work schedule this week! Also I got the promotion at work! So hopefully my schedule will sort of straighten out so I have more time for the 10,000 hobbies I have 😅

Series Summary:

I mean, love at first sight has to exist for some people. Guess you’re one of the lucky ones. Bob had said it so nonchalantly. Like it was a thing that could, did, happen in real life. And yet here he was, Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw, falling for you faster than his plane could take off. But even if everything felt slow motion, was it possible the two of you were moving too fast?

Chapter Summary:

A week. One whole ass week and both of you were walking around like love drunk idiots. Rooster's no stranger to showing a girl a good time, but this love thing, that was new. And there was one thing he knew to be true: he could not screw this up. You on the other hand? All new territory; the hot guy, the flirting, you heart sounding like a fighter jet anytime he even crosses your mind. But luckily both of you had plenty of people rooting for you.

Monday

For 7 am there sure has been a lot of activity. You’ve checked in about a dozen guests, rearranged the Admiral’s calendar a few times and the phone will not stop ringing.

You manage to redirect the latest call, slamming the phone back into its cradle. Putting your head in your hands, you take a deep breath in and try not to linger on the fact that you left your lunch sitting on the counter at home. You couldn’t sleep after Bradley dropped you off; you tossed and turning not trying to read too far into the forehead kiss. Does it mean something? Does he look at me like a sister now that he know I’m the one Mav’s been trying to set him up with?

“Morning Red.” A familiar voice, still gravely from sleep, pulls you from your thoughts. You can’t help the smile that spreads across your face as you look up to see Rooster giving you a sleepy smile as he leans against your desk.

“You’re a sight for tired eyes Cap.” You look up at him, propping your cheek up with your hand. God, he's so cute.

He opens his mouth to reply when another voice cuts him off.

“He’s no captain.” Hangman scoffs, throwing his arm around Rooster and giving him a shake. You manage to keep your laugh to yourself despite the daggers that are clearly shooting out of Rooster’s eyes.

“She knows how to read Hangman.” Bob sarcastically notes as he passes by.

“Come on, let’s move!” Phoenix rolls her eyes, pulling Hangman off of Rooster. He gives a playful “hey!” As he’s shuffled away.

I owe Bob and Phoenix a drink… Bradley thinks as he turns back to your pretty face.

“Why’s he called Hangman?” You wonder aloud.

“How about we don’t talk about him anymore.” Rooster yawns. He may be tired but not enough to talk about Hangman.

“Thanks for driving me home last night.” You smile.

“You mean the whole two streets over from Mav and Penny’s?” He shakes his head. “Thought I was being a gentleman.”

“You were! Mav normally walks me home.” You huff a little laugh, your eyes connecting with his. There it is again, the silence that is full, just not with spoken words.

“I did actually come over here to ask if you were free Friday night?” He slowly asks, casting his eyes downwards. No backing out now. You don’t immediately answer, and when he looks back up your eyes are glued to him and he can practically hear the error noise in your brain.

“Red?” Knew that kiss was too risky. This probably wasn’t the best time. Maybe I can play it off-

“Ya… I’m free.” you answer. Is he asking me out?? On a date??

He quickly stands up straight, running his hands down the front of his uniform and clearing his throat.

“Uh, a bunch of the pilots and a few others are getting together for a bonfire on the beach. Thought maybe you could come with me…” he shrugs practically with his whole body. Stop being so awkward man. You know how do this!

“Ya.” You grin, watching Bradley slowly mirror it.

“Awesome, I’ll pick you up around 7?” He asks, his usual swagger back.

“Okay.” He gives you a shy smile and turns toward the hallway.

“And don’t worry, I remember how to get to your place.” He winks over his shoulder. 

Oh no.

“Hey, Rooster?” You wait until he turns to face you. “Could you not drive by Mav’s?” He gives you a small frown and waits for you to continue. “I’ll explain eventually, but Mav will jump to conclusions…”

"The correct conclusions?”

“Ya… but he doesn’t need to know quite yet.” You wink. Rooster grins at your mischievous look and nods.

_______

Friday

“Oh thank god you two could swing by!” You swallow both Penny and Amelia in a hug while trying to shuffle them inside.

“Well, your text made it sound important.” Penny laughs.

“I have a date, sort of, and I have no clue what to wear.” You blurt.

“With who?” Penny asks.

“Sort of?” Amelia asks at the same time.

“You already know.” You try to telepathically transmit Bradley’s name to Penny. “And it’s group bonfire night. Come look at what I have chosen so far.” You take Amelia’s hand and run into your bedroom.

“The beach is freezing at night, so I don’t want to wear anything too light.” You state, showing the girls your outfits you’ve put together so far. “But I also want to, you know, look good…”

“How about forgetting the jacket layer? Maybe he'll an extra if you happen to forget yours.”

“Amelia!” Penny gasps. You and Amelia roll your eyes.

“Penny, she’s your daughter, are you really that surprised?” You playfully snap. Penny contemplates your observation and nods.

“True. So dresses are out?” She picks up the one on your bed.

“Ya… I’ll just end up tucked in it like a ball if I get cold.” You agree.

“Why not just a shirt and jeans?” Penny shrugs. “Well, jean shorts since you don’t do pants.”

“What about this?” Amelia rearranges a few items.

“Perfect.” You and Penny agree. Now just to not be a fool in front of him. He wouldn’t ask you out just because Mav wanted him too… 

“You ok (Y/N)?” Penny asks, squeezing your shoulders.

“Penny… I can’t describe this feeling I have. It’s like we know each other, deeper than we know ourselves. But at the same time I’ve known him for a week.” You dramatically flop onto your bed, the girls immediately following suit. “I thought feeling like this only ever existed in my imagination.” You whisper.

“Oh, trust me it’s real. It might not always turn out how we think it will, but it’s very real.” Penny whispers, taking your hand in hers.

_______

“I’ll bet you a hundred bucks that Rooster shows up with a girl.” Hangman flashes a look to the group of pilots around the fire. They all wave him off, no way would anyone bet on that.

“I’ll bet he shows up with Red.” Bob pipes up. Hangman flashes a wicked smile while the rest of the group shakes their heads.

“You gotta deal Bob.” Hangman extends his hand and they shake.

“You really think he’d bring her?” Phoenix asks, giving Bob an unsure look.

“Trust me.” Bob smiles to himself, pushing up his glasses with his index finger. You two had become good friends and you admitted you would date Rooster if he asked. And Bob had suggested to Rooster to invite you tonight.

“There he is.” Coyote sits up to get a better look. Everyone follows his gaze to the blue bronco that just pulled in. Sure enough Rooster steps out with his signature sunglasses and gives everyone a wave. He jogs to the other side, opening the door and helps you out of the car.

“Bastard, how did you know?” Hangman tosses the bills at Bob, who quickly snatches them before they blow away.

“You sure they’ll be ok with me being here?” You ask Rooster as he takes your hand to help you down the hill.

“Ya, Hangman invited Joanna and her friends. Plus the group likes you al-“ he can feel you lose your balance and manages to catch you before you and booze hit the sand. “ready.” He finishes.

“I swear that wasn’t on purpose.” You giggle.

“If you wanted me to hold you close all you had to do was ask.” Rooster teases, quickly pecking you on the cheek before letting you stand on your own.

“Will you two hurry up? I’m thirsty!” Fanboy yells from his spot in the sand. The rest of the group playfully kicks sand in his direction as you and Rooster quickly join the group.

“Ooo whiskey, you know how to pick the good stuff Red.” Hangman compliments.

“What makes you think she picked it?” Rooster feigns offense.

“You would have bought cheap beer, and a lot of it.” Phoenix answers.

“Yikes. Guess it benefits everyone that I came.” You tease, sitting down next to Bob.

“You don’t mind us using the nickname, right?” Bob whispers, offering you some m&ms.

“I don’t, and I don’t think Rooster does either.” You shrug, gladly taking a handful of m&ms.

The group of girls Hangman invited join you, turning up the volume of the radio and getting everyone to dance. The bottle of whiskey disappears just as fast as the sun sets and everyone but the pilots, and you, have stumbled home.

“Wait, wait, wait! You’re telling me he wouldn’t let you, a pilot for the United States Navy, fly him? In a plane?” You shout in disbelief.

“Nope. Said it’s not you babe, it’s the plane.” Halo holds her hands up in surrender. “Like I believed that for even a second!”

“Would you fly with Rooster?” Phoenix asks, eyeing you suspiciously. Everyone gets quiet, their eyes flicking between you and Rooster.

“Ya, of course.” You answer. If you trust pilots you don’t even know to fly 747’s then why would you not trust anyone currently sitting around you?

“Really?” Hangman asks, his eyes searching yours to see if you’re just saying that to be nice.

“Ya, seems silly not to trust one of the best.” You smile at Rooster. “And that goes for all of you.” You quickly add, not that it made your feelings any less obvious.

“Think you’re the only civilian who’s ever said that to any of us.” Bob states, the look of surprise still on his face.

“Lucky me.” You smile. A shiver runs up your back as the breeze starts biting through your shirt.

“Here.” Rooster shucks his flannel off and places it on your shoulders. 

“Now you’ll be cold.” You comment, trying to hide the smile tugging at your mouth. I owe Amelia a girls day out. 

“Brought a spare when I saw you were wearing shorts and a baseball tee.” He shoots back as he puts a new flannel on.

Bob and Phoenix share a look when Rooster scoots flush against your side, putting his arm around you.

“They’re so in love.” Phoenix whispers.

“How long before they realize that?” Bob chuckles as he finished off his beer.

The group chats until the fire dies down enough that it no longer keeps any of you warm. Everyone says their goodnights, the guys giving Rooster a few cheeky comments about taking you home as he helps you into the Bronco.

“Hey.” You put your hands on his before he has time to walk away. His body snaps back to the side of the car, his face coming very close to yours as he gives you that cute dazed look you can never get enough of.

“I had a really nice time Bradley.” You whisper.

“So did I.” He smiles, eyes drifting down to your lips. When he looks back up you lean in and gently press your lips to his for a split second. You pull back far enough to make sure you weren’t moving too fast.

Without taking his eyes off you he opens the door, and slides into your seat, guiding you to sit on his lap. He flicks his eyes from yours down to your mouth and back up, silently asking if he can continue. You nod and eagerly press your mouth against his. His fingers dig into your thigh, and he licks the seam of your mouth begging for entrance.

You gladly oblige, your arm wrapping around his neck as the other hand slots into his curly hair. Your tongues dance and swirl, no spot left untouched. After what feel like eternity, you unlock your mouth from his, lungs desperate for air and brain so foggy you feel like you’re spinning. And then you feel it, a tickle that follows each kiss down your neck and you can’t help but squirm away.

“What’s so funny Red?” He breathes out, his own lungs finally having a chance to fill.

“The ‘stache tickles.” You giggle, combing it with your fingers.

“Say the word and I'll shave it.” He takes your hand, kissing each of your finger tips before kissing your lips.

“You would do that?” You frown. The world famous 'stache shaved for me?

“Only if you promise to keep kissing me like this.” He smiles, pushing your hair behind your ear.

“Can’t shave it, pretty sure the Navy would throw me overboard.” You kiss him on the cheek. “Guess you’ll just have to keep kissing me until I get used to it.” You mumble as you press your open mouth against his.

He sighs, a smile spreading across his face. As you wish, Red.

_______

Saturday

“Don’t you two took great!” Penny claps her hands together at the sight of Maverick and Rooster in full uniform.

“You say that to everyone in uniform.” Mav chuckles, stealing a kiss.

“Can’t help that everyone looks good in uniform.” She laughs, turning to Rooster. His eyes are already scanning the Family Fun Day crowd for something, or someone.

“We’ll catch up later.” Mav pats him on the back. Rooster gives him a nod and bolts to the row of booths.

“Just me or is he distracted?” Mav smirks at Penny.

“Not as distracted as you.” She winks, taking off toward the crowd.

Rooster waves to a few people as he passes, eyes darting around the carnival until he spots you sitting on a bench. He straightens his uniform, takes a deep breath and saunters over to you.

“Hey Red.” His smooth voice whispers in your ear.

“Cap.” You lean back and smile over your shoulder. Swear her smile gets more beautiful every time...

“How come you’re not over there with all the other pretty girls waiting to walk the runway.” He nods to the group of women dressed in their best 1940’s attire.

“No one wants to see me on that runway.” You playfully roll your eyes.

“I do.” He simply answers, looking at you over the brim of his glasses.

“You think I'm just as pretty?” You smile triumphantly.

“I think you’re more beautiful than any of the women on this base, but that’s beside the point.” He stands up, waltzing around the bench and taking a seat next to you. “What’s it going to take to get you up there?” He nods toward the stage.

“Seriously?” You cross your arms over your chest.

“How about a friendly wager?” He slides off his glasses, clipping them to his shirt, and waits for your answer. You wave your hand for him to continue. 

“You get on that stage and I’ll take you to dinner.” He smirks. “You win that competition, you get to choose the place and I'll pay.” He lays one arm along the back of the bench, and even though he’s not touching you, you can feel the electricity spark from his fingertips.

“Sounds like you just want an excuse to be alone with me.” you point out. He bites his tongue and gives you a shy smile.

“Damn, saw right through me.” He chuckles in your ear. You feel the tip of his nose gently scrape against your cheek, and it takes every ounce of control not to shiver.

“We have a deal, hot stuff.” You say into the shell of his ear and walk over to the sign in table.

“Rooster!”

He turns to the voice to see Hangman, Phoenix and the rest of the crew barreling toward him.

“What’s up man?” Rooster reaches for Hangman’s hand, pulling him in for a half hug.

“Did you see all the ladies gearing up for the annual 40’s styled battle of the babes.” He claps, rubbing his hands together in anticipation.

“I know which one is gunna win.” Rooster fires back.

“And how would you know that?” Phoenix pokes.

“Guess you'll just have to wait and see.” Rooster grins, playfully punching the air and taking off to find you backstage.

“Ready Red?” He whispers into your ear, laughing when you jump a little.

“Bradley! Didn’t your mom ever tell you not to sneak up on people?” You lightly swat his chest, your heart going into overdrive.

“Yea, but the Navy says differently.” He flashes a smile as the precession of ladies moves onto the stage.

Someone is announcing names of the girls and their escorts while the crowd ooh’s and ahh’s at them. You watch each girl walk out into that runway, a seed of doubt sprouting in the back of your mind.

“You don't really have to do this if you don't want to.” Rooster offers, noting the small furrow in your brow. He takes your hand and gently places it in the cook of his elbow, preparing to take you wherever you want to go.

“Tell me one thing before we walk out?” You whisper.

“Anything.” He answers. He’s typically reserved with personal information, but he feels like he can tell you anything.

“You ever met someone that makes you feel… different, like you’ll never be the same?” Like you've been in love the moment you saw them in a bar smiling like at you like you were the best thing they ever laid eyes on?

He takes a deep breath beside you, shaking out the tension in his body. Your turn.

“Ya. You.” He confesses, heart pounding louder than a fighter plane. He slowly looks over to see you look up at him, a smile spreading across your face as one of the volunteers backstage directs you to where to start walking.

“And now we have Miss (Y/Full/N), who I’ve been told was awarded the call sign ‘Red’. Ain’t the cute everyone? Her own call sign!”

Bradley struts beside you, waving and saluting to the crowd and you can’t help but do the same. 

“And look at those amazing victory rolls! Very talented! She’s escorted by Lieutenant Bradley ‘Rooster’ Bradshaw...”

A Loud whistle erupts from the crowd, followed by loud cheering. You look to see all of his friends clapping and whistling as you two walk by. When you reach the end of the stage Rooster gives you a twirl and dips you low, making the crowd go wild.

“Rooster!” You giggle as he gently pulls you up, keeping you close.

“Gotta give them the whole show Red.” He chuckles, walking you back up the stage.

“Alright! Let’s see what the judges have to say.” The announcer excitedly tells the crowd. Each judge holds up their cards but you could care less if you won, because you still get the ultimate prize of a date with the handsome man beside you.

_______

Monday

“How would one get a hold of 10 pounds of crappy work coffee?” You ask Eric, whom you have labeled “the snack man” since he’s in charge of ordering all the food and drinks for the staff break rooms.

He stops reading the paperwork that’s in front of him and slowly turns to you.

“Why would you need that much?”

“It’s… ugh… for a personal thing.” You shrug. Please don’t ask…

His face turns from concerned to intrigued, which means you’re going to have to fess up.

“I lost a bet with Mav. I now owe him a year's worth of crappy work coffee.” you mumble, finding the toes of your shoes very interesting. 

“Ok. What was the bet?” He finally breaks the silence.

“What?” You look up at him.

“The bet. What was it?”

You stick your tongue inside of your cheek. Can't be worse then telling Mav he won, right?

“Whether or not I’d start dating his nephew…”

Eric bursts out laughing, slamming his fists on the desk.

“Eric…” You moan. It’s not that funny!

Eric’s turning red at this point, unable to breath in long enough to give himself oxygen. You give him a few more seconds but it doesn’t seem like he’s going to stop.

“Eric! You going to help me or what?” You shout.

“Ya… ya, I’ll get you your crappy coffee.” He stands and walks past you. “I would say I could have told you you’d lose that bet, but guess you didn’t really lose, huh?” He pats your shoulder and starts gathering the coffee.

_______

“Woah, what’s that for?” Amelia asks as Bradley slams the giant coffee bag onto the island.

“No idea. (Y/N) said to set it on the counter.” He shrugs, taking a seat next to her.

“Oh good, you’re here.” You smile at Amelia as you walk into the kitchen.

“Coffee Beans?” Amelia raises her brow at you.

“Mav and I had a bet. And I lost. He gets a year's worth of work coffee.”

“What was the bet?” Amelia and Bradley say in unison.

“Whether or not I would end up dating Bradley…” The words slowly fall from your mouth.

“We are official now…” Bradley points out to Amelia.

“Called it. But that means you bet against it?” Amelia frowns at the last bit.

“Woah woah, don’t get it twisted. I would date Bradley in a heartbeat…” You clarify. “I didn’t think he would want to date…. me.”

“Why?” They ask in unison again.

“Because sometimes I can’t get past what society has put into my head.” You sigh.

“Babe, You’re the most beautiful woman I have ever met.” He takes your hand and pulls you until you’re standing between his knees. “And I wouldn't change a thing about all these nice curves.” He rumbles into your ear, running his hands along your hips.

“Thanks sugar.” You tell him softly, pressing your lips quickly against his.

“No kissing in front of the children!” Amelia playfully whines, covering her eyes.

“Alright, alright! Help me make this look nice!” You giggle, taking a bunch of supplies out of your bag.

_______

“Amelia said (Y/N) came by earlier and dropped something off for you.” Penny tells Mav as they pull into the garage.

“Really? Thought she was stuck at work-” Mav takes two steps into the house and all he can see from the hall is MAV written in big red letters. He quickly walks over to the kitchen island and there’s a large brown box sitting on the counter that says

Lift me!

He shimmy’s the box up to reveal a very large bag of coffee that has a note taped to the top of it

Look in the box.

“That’s not even the good stuff…” Penny mumbles. Mav’s face breaks into the biggest smile when he remember what he told you a couple months back

“Too late. You owe me a year's worth of crappy work coffee if you two end up dating.”

He looks inside the box and there’s an envelope stuck to the top. He peels it off, flipping it over to open it and almost misses the very small writing along the flap

You win.

He opens it and pulls out a polaroid picture of you and Bradley kissing.

“It’s official.” He smiles triumphantly, turning the picture to show Penny.

“Hope she’s ready for this wild ride.” Penny shakes her head, giving Mav a big kiss on the cheek.

_______

Tag list:

@dilfsandtherapy

@kajjaka

@scott-mccall-could-lift-mjolnir

[essayofthoughts]

y'know, it's funny i've found your desmond fics bc i just started sketching out a half-silly half-serious percy-desmond interaction 😅 i'm curious about your thoughts, amid this headcanon, about percy actually having to confront desmond and properly apologize? (i imagine both cassandra and vex played a role in getting him to use his mouth to say the words already, percival)

Ha! Well... I've written the interaction where Percy apologises to Desmond (for my eventual very long slowburn Desmond-Cass fic which I will get to... one day) but it's not quite as you think.

See. Percy's real bad at dealing with aftermath. Like his whole arc is him running from the past - and the very end of the Campaign is when he finally confronts things. He confronts his grief, he confronts how he's been failing to help Cass - and he has to keep moving forwards. And we see from the journey to Vesrah, Percy and Vex's conversation there that Percy at that time is working to come to terms with the fact that the most you can ever do is your best and you have to become comfortable with knowing that, to some people, that won't be enough.

And for Desmond, there isn't much that Percy could do that would be "enough". For Percy, I think he knows that. And so... I think he quietly avoids interacting with Desmond, even as Cassandra makes Desmond her manservant so he has a job and so her brother has to confront it, one way or another. Desmond, having known Cassandra longer (due to the occupation; they likely knew each other fleetingly due to the Briarwoods) and quite closely (working as her manservant, not constantly flitting away to fight dragons), has to wonder if Percy's avoidance of him is out of shame or out of the same twisted, warped respect that causes him to avoid-not-avoid Cass.

Because Percy, despite everything, has chosen to trust Cass, even when she doesn't think she deserves it. (Seeing how hard Cassandra works, this is one thing that Desmond can respect Percy for.) And Percy, when he trusts people, when he respects them - he doesn't involve himself in their lives and choices. That is how he shows respect and trust - by trusting that they know what they're doing and that they don't need him shoving his nose in unasked for.

So Desmond, knowing how the de Rolos are, remains unsure for a long time if Percy's careful dodging of interacting with him is out of shame or out of respect.

If it is out of respect, Desmond decides, it is likely respect for the fact that Desmond does not want anything to do with Percy. If it is out of shame, then it is because Percy doesn't want anything to do with such an obvious and horrific mistake.

Honestly, Desmond thinks that Percy's a coward (wonderfully, he doesn't know that Percy thinks this of himself). Why does Percy get to be the one so wary and upset over this, avoiding it? Desmond has more cause to avoid Percy than Percy does him - Desmond's the one with the maimed hand for god's sakes!

But Desmond respects Cassandra, so he won't get in a fight with her brother. And Cassandra respects Desmond, and given he's sensitive about his hand - for understandable reasons! - she doesn't bring up his hand with Percy. Not even the fact that Percy didn't mention that he was responsible for that - that Desmond had to tell her.

And Vex... Vex doesn't judge Percy for maiming Desmond where she does join the others in disapproving of Tiberius murdering that fleeing old witch. So... I can't see her going to Percy and telling him to apologise.

And the thing is, Percy did try to apologise before - when they got back to Emon and Greyskull and spoke to Desmond and got things cleared up with Uriel, Percy consistently made apologetic gestures in Desmond's direction but also consistently trailed off. Given this is Percy Overthinking Things de Rolo, there's good odds he was struggling to decide what to say - we've seen how careful he can be with his words in one-on-one interactions. And, because he trailed off, the others spoke instead, preventing him from finishing the thought and apologising.

This doesn't excuse the fact he hasn't apologised - it explains it, sure, but Desmond's still understandably bitter that Percy permanently maimed his hand and the most he ever did to try to make amends was tell his sister to give him a job.

Yeah, Desmond thinks. Great job at apologising, you prick.

But they have to work in proximity. And, we know from canon that while Percy did spend a good part of the year break helping with the rebuilding of Whitestone, arming the riflemen, dealing with the fallout of Emon, etc. etc. - we also know from the end of the Campaign that... whatever he did, it wasn't actually enough to meaningfully help Cass. At the end of the Campaign, Cassandra, newly resurrected from being shot with arrows again, makes it clear to him that she is struggling and has been for sometime and goddamnit, she needs her brother to step up and help her.

(I doubt Desmond, working so closely with Cassandra, already given reason to think less of Percy given everything, thinks any better of Percy for this. He has cause to care about Cassandra, kind to him, responsible, doing the best she can despite everything, someone who like him has seen both the good and awful sides of the Briarwoods and has consequently complicated feelings about them, who has, in some way, been let down by Percival de Rolo - he has no such reason to think kindly of Percy, regardless of how much of Percy's behaviour is a direct result of his own trauma. Desmond's shared experience gives him much more sympathy for Cassandra than Percy.)

Anyway. We know from the Campaign Wrap Up that Percy endeavours to step up. We know this from Dalen's Closet. We know this from Reborn.

And I'm willing to bet he tried to keep on politely avoiding Desmond during this too.

I think, in good part, Percy convinced himself he was doing this out of politeness. He knows he traumatised Desmond - he maimed the boy, a boy around the same age he was when the Briarwoods attacked, he is to Desmond as the Briarwoods and Anna Ripley are to him, there is no way he can take that back - and so the least he can do is make sure Desmond doesn't have to deal with him anymore than necessary. I honestly believe that Percy thinks this is a good and real reason to avoid Desmond - and it's fair reasoning - but I do also think a good part of Percy's reasoning is guilt and shame and not entirely knowing how to deal with that. Desmond doesn't spend anymore time with him than he needs to - obviously, he's Cassandra's manservant, he's not going to hang around to make idle chit-chat with Lord Percival, is he? He has better things to do. He has his Lady to serve.

So in the end, when this confrontation happens, it's Desmond who's engineered it.

See, Desmond is Cassandra's manservant and the person who arranges her appointments and her itinerary - it'd be pretty feasible for him to arrange a day when Cassandra and Vex are away somewhere else, leaving Percy to have to fill in for Cass. And Percy would, because he owes Cass and someone has to. And, if Cass is safe with Vex, Desmond is going to stay in Whitestone, to make sure that all the work that needs doing is done.

Meaning he gets to speak to Percy, whether Percy likes it or not.

(Percy, let us be honest here, is not going to have the best of times with it.)

And so, at this point, I shall just segue into what I've written for the fic I will one day, eventually, finish.

--

"I don't trust you," Desmond says flatly. Percival blinks at his bluntness so he adds, mostly as an afterthought, "Sir." Then, because Percival's still staring: "It's more than what you did to me. It's what you've done to Lady Cassandra-"

"I thought she was dead-"

"Not that," he says, struggling not to roll his eyes. "It's less about your actions and more about the consequence of your lack of them at times. You help her now, but she was eighteen when you first gave management of a whole city to her - despite her clear worries."

"I-"

"And then," he adds, forging onwards. "You brought refugees here and left them in her hands with little to no warning, put our home at risk of the Conclave, titled your wife without warning, got yourself killed - and by and large were not there for your sister."

Percival sputters. Desmond knows it's perhaps a bit much to list out his every error - but Percival, he thinks, is at times too willing to forget that just because he had a good reason it doesn't make it easier for anyone else.

"There were dragons threatening lives," Percival points out. "Would you have rather I ignored civilians in need of aid or abandoned my friends when they needed assistance to make us all safe?"

"It's not about that," Desmond says evenly. "It's not about you. It's about..." he sighs and lifts his maimed hand. Even after all this time, even with his position, little can or has been done to improve it. Percival sobers at once. "You see?" he asks. "Does it matter what your reasons were when it causes hurt? This" -he waves his hand before letting it fall to his side- "I don't know what reasons you had. Certainly nothing good enough to warrant it. But regardless, it doesn't fix how it aches in the winter or the rain, or how most people flinch to see it or the fact that your sister is more comfortable with my maimed hand than most people's whole ones. You had your reasons for not being here with Cassandra. For not helping. But that doesn't erase the burden you put on someone's shoulders that you could have helped to bear. Sooner at the very least."

"Yes," Percival agrees. "Yes, I should have." He pauses and Desmond braces himself for a justification. "For what it's worth I didn't realise immediately how great a burden it was for Cass. I should have. And" -he gestures to Desmond's ruined hand- "that... that is one of the more terrible things I have ever done, in anger or otherwise. You are owed more apology than I can give for how I handled that."

It's not an apology. It's barely even an admission of error, but there is a heavy look of guilt and apology and grief on Percival's face and Desmond knows Cassandra well enough to understand the expression. Still-

"Not going to call it a mistake?" Desmond asks and Percival shakes his head.

"I knew exactly what I intended when I did it," he says. "I didn't do it for any kind of a good reason; I intended harm. I wanted answers more than I cared about collateral damage. That is on me. I'll not dismiss it by calling it a mistake."

That, at least, Desmond can respect.

"And, ah-" Percival adds. "I'd not expect you to trust me, given everything. I'd almost rather you didn't if anything. And, um. I am glad you and Cassandra get along so well. I'm glad she has friends such as you."

Friends catches his ear and he frowns.

"I'm her manservant," he points out.

"The fact you came here," Percival says. "To not just speak to me but talk over me and challenge me when you've consistently avoided me before- I rather think there's more to your closeness to Cass than simply loyalty."

Perhaps. But Desmond's certainly not going to admit such a thing to Percival of all people.

[sunshinereddie]

I hope you're not getting tired of me jumping into your inbox everytime I get any Reddie ideas because I don't think I'll be stopping anytime soon 😅

Anyways, I present you this amazing tiktok cover of "A Glimpse of Us". The idea that came rushing into my head while watching this tiktok for the millionth time almost made me tear up and that's saying something because you know what I'm writing 😂

!!WORD VOMIT ALERT!!

Remember when I mentioned back then about how Richie and Eddie were together back in their high school days but broke up due to them knowing that long-distance will be too much for them? Put that back in this scenario except Pennywise doesn't exist and so, they never forgot each other at all. They just broke up and promised that once they're more stable, they'll get back together and live out those plans they've been making while they were together.

They stayed in touch. They call each other and wrote letters whenever they can just so the other always knows that they still love and care for one another despite no longer committed. Then throw in your wonderful Anon's idea here, they became distant due to their own personal schedules and the calls and letter became less and less frequent. In the midst of all the longing and stress and depression, Eddie Kaspbrak met Myra Jordan. (Idk what her maiden name is but that's my maiden name headcanon for her)

And oh, she was an all time comfort. Despite having such a great resemblance to his own mother appearance and personality wise, she helped him unload all those stress. Her consistent presence by his side satisfied his longing and yeah, she was no Richie. She's, in fact, the polar opposite of his first love but could you blame Eddie for falling in love(?) with her? She was there for while Richie was not. She was there.

Richie didn't even found out about her until Eddie brought her along one summer while introducing her as his fiancee. Richie, being the man that he is, didn't let it show how betrayed and hurt he was at that moment. He joked and congratulated Eddie whilst ignoring the way his heart was slowly and painfully breaking piece by piece by every lovestruck look Eddie throws in Myra's way. With a fake bright smile, Richie accepted being Eddie's best man- (jk, but imagine that, AUGH MY HEART-) he accepted being apart of the ceremony and teased him about having mommy issues, ignoring the way everyone but Eddie and Myra could see right through his defense mechanism.

The wedding happened, everything went smooth, and everyone was happy. Even Richie, genuinely he was! He was happy that Eddie was happy, even if it wasn't with him. Even if it'll never be with him.

1 week later and that's when the song comes in. Every night, without fail, Richie would visit bars and clubs, trying to replace his own longing with the embraces of strangers. Trying to replace the phantom feeling of Eddie's touches and kisses with those of random one night stands and short relationships. He hadn't succeeded yet.

He still wants that euphoric magical feeling his relationship with Eddie made him feel. He thinks he'll always want it.

...

Five years later, Eddie's favorite song is A Glimpse Of Us by Joji.

HELLO I WOULD NEVER GET TIRED OF PEOPLE COMING INTO MY INBOX WITH HCS !!!!! IT'S LITERALLY MY FAVOURITE THING EVER !!!!

but, aahhh!!!! this tugged at my heartstrings,,,, the idea of eddie asking richie to be his best man, and richie going along with it because he knows it will make eds happy even though it's breaking his heart?? OOF THAT HURTS...... stuff like this just reminds me of how tragic richie and eddie's story really is. they're soulmates, they love each other, but they can't stop the things, or people, keeping them apart.

it's so beautifully heartbreaking :'(