#don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Return to office and dying on the job

Denise Prudhomme's bosses at Wells Fargo insisted that the in-person camaraderie of their offices warranted a mandatory return-to-office policy, but when she died at her desk in her Tempe, AZ office, no one noticed for four days.

That was in August. Now, Wells Fargo United has published a statement on her death, one that vibrates with anger at the callously selective surveillance that Wells Fargo inflicts on its workforce:

https://www.reddit.com/r/WellsFargoUnited/comments/1fnp9fa/please_print_and_take_to_your_managersite_leader/

The union points out that Wells Fargo workers are subjected to continuous, fine-grained on-the-job surveillance from a variety of bossware tools that count their keystrokes and create tables of the distancess their mice cross each day:

https://pluralistic.net/2021/02/24/gwb-rumsfeld-monsters/#bossware

Wells Fargo's message to its workforce is, "You can't be trusted," a policy that Wells Fargo doubled down on with its Return to Office mandate. Return to Office is often pitched as a chance to improve teamwork, communication, and human connection with your co-workers, and there's no arguing with the idea that spending some time in person with people can help improve working relationships (I attended a week-long, all-hands, staff retreat for EFF earlier this month and it was fantastic, primarily due to its in-person nature).

But our bosses don't want us back in the office because they enjoy our company, nor because they're so excited about having hired such a swell bunch of folks and can't wait to see how we all get along together. As John Quiggin writes, the biggest reason to force us back to the office is to get a bunch of us to quit:

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/sep/26/in-their-plaintive-call-for-a-return-to-the-office-ceos-reveal-how-little-they-are-needed

As one of Musk's toadies put it in a private message before the Twitter takeover, "Sharpen your blades boys. 2 day a week Office requirement = 20% voluntary departures":

https://techcrunch.com/2022/09/29/elon-musk-texts-discovery-twitter/

The other reason to spy on us is because they don't trust us. Remember all the panic about "quiet quitting" and "no one wants to work"? Bosses' hypothesis was that eking out a bare minimum living on from a couple of small-dollar covid stimulus checks was preferable to working for them for a full paycheck.

Every accusation is a a confession. When your boss tells you that he thinks that you can't be trusted to do a good job without total, constant surveillance, he's really saying, "I only bother to do my CEO job when I'm afraid of getting fired':

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/19/make-them-afraid/#fear-is-their-mind-killer

As Wells Fargo United notes, Wells Fargo employees like Denise Prudhomme are spied on from the moment they set foot in the building until the moment they clock out (and sometimes the spying continues when you're off the clock):

Wells Fargo monitors our every move and keystroke using remote, electronic technologies—purportedly to evaluate our productivity—and will fire us if we are caught not making enough keystrokes on our computers.

The Arizona Republic coverage notes further that Prudhomme had to log her comings and goings from the Wells Fargo offices with a badge, so Wells Fargo could see that Prudhomme had entered the premises four days before, but hadn't left:

https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/tempe-breaking/2024/09/23/wells-fargo-employees-union-responds-death-tempe-woman/75352015007/

Wells Fargo has mandated in-person working, even when that means crossing a state line to be closer to the office. They've created "hub cities" where workers are supposed to turn up. This may sound convivial, but Prudhomme was the only member of her team working out of the Tempe hub, so she was being asked to leave her home, travel long distances, and spend her days in a distant corner of the building where no one ventured for periods of (at least) four days at a time.

Bosses are so convinced that they themselves would goof off if they could that they fixate on forcing employees to spend their days in the office, no matter what the cost. Back in March 2020, Charter CEO Tom Rutledge – then the highest-paid CEO in America – instituted a policy that every back office staffer had to work in person at his call centers. This was the most deadly phase of the pandemic, there was no PPE to speak of, we didn't understand transmission very well, and vaccines didn't exist yet. Charter is a telecommunications company and it was booming as workers across America upgraded their broadband so they could work from home, and the CEO's response was to ban remote work. His customer service centers were superspreading charnel houses:

https://pluralistic.net/2020/03/18/diy-tp/#sociopathy

That Wells Fargo would leave a dead employee at her desk for four days is par for the course for the third-largest commercial bank in America. This is Wells Fargo, remember, the company that forced its low-level bank staff to open two million fake accounts in order to steal from their customers and defraud their shareholders, then fired and blackballed staff who complained:

https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/09/26/495454165/ex-wells-fargo-employees-sue-allege-they-were-punished-for-not-breaking-law

The executive who ran that swindle got a $125 million bonus:

https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2016/09/wells-fargo-ceos-teflon-don-act-backfires-at-senate-hearing-i-take-full-responsibility-means-anything-but.html

And the CEO got $200 million:

https://money.cnn.com/2016/09/21/investing/wells-fargo-fired-workers-retaliation-fake-accounts/index.html

It's not like Wells Fargo treats its workers badly but does well by everyone else. Remember, those fake accounts existed as part of a fraud on the company's investors. The company went on to steal $76m from its customers on currency conversions. They also foreclosed on customers who were up to date on their mortgages, seizing and selling off all their possessions. They argued that when bosses pressured tellers into forging customers on fraudulent account-opening paperwork, that those customers had lost their right to sue, since the fraudulent paperwork had a binding arbitration clause. When they finally agreed to pay restitution to their victims, they made the payments opt-in, ensuring that most of the millions of people they stole from would never get their money back.

They stole millions with fraudulent "home warranties." They stole millions from small businesses with fake credit-card fees. They defrauded 800,000 customers through an insurance scam, and stole 25,000 customers' cars with illegal repos. They led the pre-2008 pack on mis-selling deceptive mortgages that blew up and triggered the foreclosure epidemic. They loaned vast sums to Trump, who slashed their taxes, and then they fired 26.000 workers and did a $40.6B stock buyback. They stole 525 homes from mortgage borrowers and blamed it on a "computer glitch":

https://pluralistic.net/2021/09/29/jubilance/#too-big-to-jail

Given all this, two things are obvious: first, if anyone is going to be monitored for crimes, fraud and scams, it should be Wells Fargo, not its workers. Second, Wells Fargo's surveillance system exists solely to terrorize workers, not to help them. As Wells Fargo United writes:

We demand improved safety precautions that are not punitive or cause further stress for employees. The solution is not more monitoring, but ensuring that we are all connected to a supportive work environment instead of warehoused away in a back office.

Tor Books as just published two new, free LITTLE BROTHER stories: VIGILANT, about creepy surveillance in distance education; and SPILL, about oil pipelines and indigenous landback.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/09/27/sharpen-your-blades-boys/#disciplinary-technology

[izadi234]

Forget me not

-Warning: Contain yandere themes, neglected! gn!reader, mention of low self-esteem, the writer's first language isn't English. Yan! Batfamily x gn! reader

Chapter 1

You can't remember a time when you didn't live under the roof of Wayne Manor. Those hallways that for a 4-year-old child seemed chilling and eternal, today you consider a prison. And no, they don't keep you locked up or anything like that, in fact they give you a lot of freedom within this house, but you can consider that so-called 'freedom' as negligence.

Yes, negligence. Of course you had clothes to wear, a bed to sleep in, a roof to shelter in, but what about love? If they could ask you if you have ever felt loved in your home, the answer would be simple.

No not once

Bruce Wayne, your father, may be one of the biggest billionaires in this world but it seems his love and attention was limited towards you. But, with your brothers? It seemed to be an endless well of love and patience that he gave them.

Unconditional love, something you always looked for.

Or maybe he was busy owning one of the most successful companies in the world or cosplaying a vampire to help the city.

Yes… in short, Bruce no longer knew what excuse to give himself for not spending time with you.

And your brothers? They weren't much better. Richard "Dick" Grayson may be very loving and charming but with you? You were just a zero on the left. He didn't think you needed attention as much as his traumatized brothers and sisters. You, being a normal civilian, knew that you were safe from anything, so he only limited himself to greeting you with that little smile that at first seemed warm to you, but now it just cracks your teeth to see it.

As if he were the perfect brother.

Jason Todd was everything to you until it became nothing. You met him in his days as Robin and the truth is he was nice to you and you had a good relationship with him (they are only three years apart). When Dick wasn't at the mansion he would play with you and let you watch him train. He was your greatest confidant, your best friend… Until the Joker killed him. When he came back to life you couldn't recognize him, was he really your brother? A being full of hate and revenge? So much so that even though he saw you once after years, he just turned around.

And although he already has a better relationship with his family, it seems that your loving relationship as brothers ended that day he died. He didn't even look at you, much less talk to you.

What a hypocrite.

You can't say anything about Timothy Drake.  Seriously, and it's not because he's a great brother, it's because you've literally never talked to him.  You only know of his existence because of the times Dick shouted his name in excitement at him every time he came to the mansion and because you found out that Todd wanted to kill him.  Furthermore, your room and his are in the same hallway with the slight difference that your room was at the end.

Spoiled child...

Damian Wayne was a totally unique case.  He was violent and explosive but apparently your father preferred him over you.  Damian considered you a zero on the left.  He never found value in you, neither in your physique (you didn't fight), nor in your mind (you're not outstanding) so he didn't waste even a second insulting you or degrading you.

According to him, you were just a nuisance to the Wayne family and a disappointment to the Batfamily. And it didn't matter if you were going to complain to Bruce about Damian's behavior, he always made excuses for it.

Is this how unconditional love looks like?

Cassandra Cain was another ghost like you inside the mansion... With the only difference that she did pay attention to her even though she didn't talk much.  She was never interested in interacting with you even though you tried several times.

Even a mute could attract more attention than you...

Stephanie Brown.  An extroverted girl who wasn't afraid to give her opinion, but apparently she didn't have any opinion about you.  She always gets excited to see others and she was quick to look for things to do with them.  But, if she saw you, she would just give you a slightly awkward smile and she would get out of there quickly.

She runs away from you like you have the plague.

Barbara Gordon is seen by most of the family as an older sister, however you see her as a grumpy secretary.  You could be the most respectful person in the world towards her but just seeing you next to her asking what she was doing made her look at you as if you were a villain she is looking for.

I'm sure she hasn't seen a villain with the irritation she sees you with.

Duke Thomas is the new addition to the Wayne Family.  You have nothing against him, he is a kind and smiling boy. Who you could even consider to be the kindest to you of all your brothers.

When he first came to Wayne Manor, despite you being a nobody in that family, he took an interest in you. At first you thought he did it out of pity, but when one day you heard him asking Alfred where you were because he wanted to show you something, that's when you realized he wasn't doing it out of pity. And that made you feel special, being the sibling Duke turned to.

But you couldn't help but hate how easily he integrated into the family. How easily they accepted him.

And last but not least, Alfred Pennyworth.  He tried to be there for you and he encouraged you to keep trying to get your family's attention. But even with the butler's attention you couldn't help but long for the affection of your father and brothers.

You are more sure that without him you would have gone crazy in that big mansion. 

For that reason, the only ones you would miss once you left that place would be Alfred and Duke.

"Would you be mad at me if I decided to leave the mansion?”

What a bad way to start a conversation.

You were sitting at the kitchen counter. As was custom you watched Alfred make breakfast, occasionally helping him. The butler, upon hearing your question, momentarily stopped what he was doing. Thanks to his poker face, Alfred didn't show any surprise but you knew well that he wasn't expecting that question.

"Pardon me, master (name)?”

"Would you forget about me if I left the mansion?" you asked

"Of course not!" Alfred quickly answered, his tone of voice a little high. However, upon noticing the change in his tone of voice he composed his posture again.

“I mean, of course I would never forget you, master (name). Why do you ask me those questions?”

"You know why Alfie" you sighed.

Alfred likewise sighed and turned off the stove where he was cooking. He walked over to you and sat down in front of you.

"Master (name)…" he was saying but you interrupted him.

"No Alfred… Could you let me talk… please..?" you asked gently but firmly

"Since I came to this place fifteen years ago I have always been part of the ghosts of this mansion and- and I got tired of being that. For a long time I have been thinking about moving somewhere else, away from this mansion, away from them…” You said that last sentence angrier but you controlled your temper.

"But… I can't leave knowing that you don't agree with my decision. I can't stand the thought of you being angry with me.”

You couldn't even imagine a world where he, Alfred Pennyworth, the man who decided to take your father's tablecloth, was angry with you. But even if he gets angry at your decision, you are going to follow your plan to leave the city.

Alfred smiled slightly and took your hand.

"You know very well that I would support you in whatever my little one does. Unless that decision put your life in danger of course" they both laughed at that comment.

"So that's a yes?" you asked with hope in your eyes and voice

"Yes" he nodded "Just take care of yourself"

You could see in his eyes that there was a bit of fear in his eyes as well as something else that you didn't know what it was and you didn't pay attention to it at that moment.

You should have paid more attention to him in that moment.

"Thanks Alfie" you hugged him regardless of the fact that the table was between the two of you. The butler hugged you anyway, his hug felt warm and safe.

"You don't have to thank me, Master (name)"

Then you broke away from the hug and ran to your room with a big smile on your face. You were finally going to be able to live the way you wanted, without living in the shadow of everyone. Finally free.

Once in your room you started making some calls and organizing your things quietly (not that the inhabitants of this mansion cared much about what you did) so as not to attract attention. In a week, this place will only be a bad dream and you will be able to move from this nightmare to a dream with a happy ending.

Or not?

Hellooo! I hope you liked the start of this story! To be honest, this has been something I have wanted to do for a long time. And Let me remind you that English isn't my first language so if you find some mistakes I would appreciate fo you to tell me in a good way.

Anyway, if you liked it I'll appreciate for you leave a heart.

See you in the next one!!

-Izadi <3

[anime-fan-05]

ciao

can you please do dating x includes... with isagi, bachira, chigiri, nagi, reo, rin and sae (bllk)?

thanks 🤗

Blue Lock ~Dating them includes...~

Manga/anime: Blue Lock

Warnings: nothing

(Y/N): your name

Dating Isagi Yoichi includes taking walks together holding hands, him blushing when you laugh, him dying of embarrassment, but working even harder, if you wear his jersey during one of his games, him tying your engagement ring to the laces of his right shoe during his games (he can't keep it on his finger) and thinking it's the reason for his goals, him watching you in the stands every time he scores a goal and dedicating it to you

Dating Bachira Meguru includes wearing matching t-shirts and pajamas, him sending you spotify lyrics he thinks relates to your relationship, him cuddling into you like a koala and pouting and whining when you break free from his grasp, having matching keychain in school bag, going on photobooth dates and making funny faces at the camera, him having one of the photos you took in the photobooth in his wallet and phone cover

Dating Chigiri Hyoma includes doing skin and hair care together, you helping him to take care of his injured leg, him leaving to touch, comb and play with his hair only to you, reading novels together, him complimenting you on everything you're wearing, him blushing if you compliment his speed after a practice or game, him always carrying a hair elastic in case you need it, him having a period tracking app

Dating Nagi Seishiro includes arcade dates, watching TV series or films or videos, reading manga and playing mobile games together, him not letting you go for at least an hour when you two cuddle, him collapsing on you after coming back from training and staying in that position for quite a while, him always muttering "what a pain" when you ask him to do something (even if he does it anyway)

Dating Mikage Reo includes his gallant behavior, him paying for all the meals, gifts, hotels and places you're at, going only to fancy places, him always giving you flowers, him buying everything you want, even if you don't tell him so, him always having pads and chocolate on hand when you've your period, him always thinking "would (Y/N) like this?" every time he sees something in a store

Dating Itoshi Rin includes watching horror movies together and him being forced but actually wanting to hug you so you won't be afraid, him glaring at the boys too close to you (for him), him giving you his sweatshirt if he notices you're cold, him always giving you only veiled compliments, him teaching you how to play football, him having more photos of you than of him on his phone, him having you as his photo on his phone's lock screen

Dating Itoshi Sae includes him being mean to everyone but you, him hugging you from behind when you least expect it, him keeping all your gifts and the cards you gave him, him always mentioning you at least once during his interviews (he doesn't do it on purpose, it's completely involuntary), him carrying you in his arms like a bride effortlessly if you're tired, him thinking about your wedding every time he passes a jewelry

💮 Rules 💮 Masterlist 💮

[voxslays]

Radio Booth Nuisance ~ Alastor x Reader

In which >>> You decide to break one of the Radio Demon’s rules and get punished accordingly….

Warnings: Smut, AFAB Reader, Dub-Con??

1.3k Words. Lots and Lots of Smut. Bratty Reader. I literally only write Alastor Smut…why? THIS IS A CRY FOR HELP- Enjoy!

Don't go into Alastor's studio if he's on air, it was that simple. Yet, for some reason it was exhilarating to taunt and tease him. You knew he would usually tear apart anyone who would dare interrupt him…but you decided to try it anyway.

"I'm afraid I'm busy!" You hear Alastor holler from beyond the door, the superficial kindness in his tone was obvious. He hates it when people interrupt his work. You feel an odd nervous giddiness going through yourself at the prospect of opening this door. With a sharp intake of breath, you swing open the door and close it softly behind yourself. Though behind him you can see Alastor pinch the space between his eyebrows with an annoyed smile. His chair slowly turns to face you.

"What is it you need, dear?" Alastor asks, adjusting one of the knobs on the recording equipment in front of him to quiet it. His annoyed smile was evident. “Nothing.” You giggle as you run out of the booth. With the thrill of interrupting the Radio Demon, you quickly ran as far away from his recording studio as you could, a smile plastered on your face.

After the broadcast is over, Alastor leans back in his chair and stretches, his joints popping loudly. He gets up and exits the booth, finding you leaning against the wall in the lobby, a mischievous grin on your face. "You little..." He carries off. Alastor's eyes narrow slightly as he approaches you, his hands resting on his hips. "You're smiling like a cat who got the cream." He reaches out and gently grabs your chin, tilting your head up to look at him. "What are you plotting, hmm?" He looks pissed. 

“Nothing.” You say a little too quickly for your own good. Alastor definitely knew you were lying now.

​​Alastor's grip on your chin tightens slightly, his thumb brushing against your bottom lip. "Liar." He leans in closer, his voice dropping to a low, sultry tone. "You know, payback's a dish best served cold. But I'm feeling quite warm right now..." He smiles, clearly planning something vile and malevolent. “And what is that supposed to mean, Mr. Radio Demon!?” You say sarcastically.

Alastor's eyes gleam with amusement as he smiles, his breath warm against your face. "It means, darling, that I've had just about enough of your teasing and interruptions." He reaches out and grabs you, pulling you into a nearby closet. The closet is dimly lit and filled with old records and props. Alastor backs you up against the wall, his hands on either side of your head. "Now, where were we?" He leans in close, his voice a low rumble. "Oh yes, payback."

​​Alastor's hands slowly trail down your sides, his touch gentle yet firm. He leans in and presses his lips to your neck, planting soft kisses and gentle nips. His hands continue to roam, slowly unbuttoning your shirt. "You're playing with fire, you know," He says, his voice almost a whisper, as he leans close to your ear. His free hand reaches up to your face, tracing your jawline with his thumb before tilting your head back. "Oh, I know." You smirk. He leans in and kisses you deeply, his tongue exploring your mouth.

Alastor's hands continue to wander, caressing your chest and abs before they reach the waistband of your pants. He looks at you with a hungry expression, his eyes filled with desire. "I think it's time for some punishment, don't you?" You nod. Your heart racing with excitement and nerves. Alastor's hands quickly work to undo your pants, pulling them down along with your underwear. "Good Girl." He praises, his voice low and husky. "Now, let's see how well you can take your punishment." He asserts.

Alastor smirks and unzips his own pants, freeing himself. He lifts you up and presses you against the wall, his hands gripping your thighs. He leans in close, his lips brushing against yours. "Hang on tight." He whispers.

With a slow, deliberate motion, Alastor enters you. He grins wickedly as you gasp and bury your face in his neck. "Shh, we wouldn't want anyone to hear us, now would we?" He starts to move, his hips thrusting slowly and deliberately. You cover your mouth. "Good." he praises as you stifle a moan. "Remember, the more noise you make, the longer this lasts."

Alastor's pace quickens, his breathing becoming heavier as he tries to suppress his own moans. "Alastor... please..." you whimper, your nails digging into his shoulders as you try to hold back your sounds. Alastor's eyes flash with amusement as he continues to move, his thrusts becoming more powerful. "Please what?" he growls, his voice laced with desire. "Please stop? Or please keep going?"  He leans in and bites your earlobe gently.

“K-keep going.” You huff, out of breath. "Mmm, good choice." Alastor's voice is low and sultry. “But it seems as though you’ve earned yourself a new punishment...” He leans in and whispers into your ear what your punishment was. "Let's hope you can handle it.”

“What?” You ask. "You'll have to keep quiet for the rest of the night, no matter what I do to you. And if you make even the slightest sound, I'll add an extra hour to our…’quiet time’… in the morning." He punctuates his threat with a particularly deep thrust, making you gasp silently. “F-fine~.” You moan. Alastor smirks, pleased with your submission. "Excellent." He continues to move, his thrusts becoming even more forceful and precise. He reaches down and covers your mouth with his hand, silencing any sounds you might make. "Remember, not a peep." He threatens. 

Alastor's movements become faster and harder, his own self-control slipping. He bites his lip to keep from making any noise, his eyes locked onto yours. He knows you're close, and he wants to watch you fall apart silently. "Eyes on me." he growls softly. You lock eyes with Alastor, your breath hitching as you struggle to stay quiet. Your body tenses, your fingers digging into his back as you reach the brink. Alastor's hand tightens over your mouth, muffling any sounds.

Your body tenses as you reach the edge, your eyes fluttering closed. Alastor's hand tightens over your mouth, his other arm wrapping around your waist to keep you upright. "No, look at me." he commands, his voice barely a whisper. "I want to see you." Your eyes fly open, meeting his as the waves of pleasure crash over you. Your body convulses silently, your eyes welling up with tears as you try desperately to stay quiet. Alastor's hand muffles your soft moan, his body tensing as he finds his own release. Alastor buries his face in your neck, his body shuddering as he comes down from his high. He keeps his hand over your mouth, his body still inside yours. "Good girl." he praises softly, his voice ragged. "You did so well." He praises. He carefully sets you down on your unsteady feet, keeping an arm around your waist to stabilize you. He leans in and kisses you gently, his touch tender and loving. "You may speak now." He smiles softly, his eyes filled with affection. "But only if you want to."

“Alastor…I think I'm in love with you.” Alastor freezes, his eyes widening slightly. Then, a slow smile spreads across his face, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Well, it's a good thing." he says softly, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear. “Because I know I’m in love with you.” Alastor's smile widens as you pull him close, his arms wrapping around you tightly. He kisses you back passionately, pouring all his love and devotion into it. When he pulls back, he rests his forehead against yours, his red eyes shining. "I'm yours. Forever. For the rest of our afterlives.”

"And I’m yours.” You say. He scoops you up in his arms, cradling you close. “Let’s go to bed, my love. We have all the time in the world now." Alastor carries you to the bedroom, his heart full of joy and love. He gently lays you down on the bed, climbing in beside you and wrapping his arms around you. He holds you close, feeling your warmth and presence, and finally allows himself to relax, feeling completely content and at peace.

[zweiginator]

having a crush on pat and lying abt giving the best head (never even seen a dick irl) cuz ur not actually expecting him to ever take u up on it.

so now ur on your knees in front him, sweating nervously and trying to remember what you've seen in porn while patrick just looks down at you with a knowing shit eating grin... he lets you stumble and slobber over him for abt 15 minutes (don't get it wrong he still thinks it's rlly hot) before giving u an in-depth tutorial <3

he think it's cute how desperate you are for him, so when you randomly make your 'confession', he just nods his head.

"oh is that right?"

and you immediately regret it, but you tell him you've been complimented by every guy you've given head to (which is zero).

and soon the party dies down and everyone leaves Patrick's house but somehow you're still there. legs dangling as you sit on his counter. he pops open another beer and takes a swig.

"I'll get an uber." you pull out your phone but Patrick takes it from your hand.

"stay for a bit." you watch him take another swig and you nod, heart beating out of your chest because god, you've never had a bigger crush in your whole life.

and then he finishes his thought. "why don't you show me those skills of yours."

you nibble on your bottom lip. do you tell him or just be cool? you go with the latter. you nod and realize you don't know how to start, but Patrick is quick to stand between your legs and pull you into him, cupping your jaw as he licks into your mouth. you've kissed before, so this isn't too out of the ordinary, but Patrick's kisses are hungry, vicious almost. he bites your bottom lip and pries your mouth open and you're gasping for breath but you somehow end up on your knees in front of him.

Patrick watches you swallow as you unzip his jeans. he helps you push them down. you can see his hard-on prominent through his boxers. you've never seen a real-life dick before, and here you are with Patrick's nearly in your face. but you can't seem inexperienced. so you push his underwear down as well. his cock slaps against his stomach and fuck--he's long and veiny and a tuft of dark hair lays at the base of him.

you look up at him, lip tugged between your teeth. he knows you've never done this before. it's clear in the way your hands are shaking and you don't quite know how to touch him. he strokes your hair, pressing his thumb against your lips.

wrapping your hand around his cock, you stroke him, thinking about the porn you've seen before. your grip is tight as you touch him from base to tip and he sighs. is that good?

but you remember you didn't promise him a good handjob. he can do that himself. and fuck--you need him to like you. so you give his tip a sloppy kiss, maintaining eye contact with him.

he nods, loving how clueless you are, yet ready to please. your mouth opens wider as you take Patrick into your mouth, one inch at a time. your mouth is stuffed with him and your eyes water as your nose inches closer to his pelvis. you sputter and choke around him but you manage to bob your head for a bit before having to pull off.

you gasp for air and your slobber soaks his cock, rock hard and flushed from the stimulation.

he smiles down at you.

"sweetheart." he presses his thumb against your tongue. you suck on it eagerly. "you didn't need to lie to get my cock in your throat. could've asked me to teach ya."

you want to cry you're so embarrassed. the deep flush of your cheeks only makes Patrick harder.

and he tells you what to do, his hand on the back of your head.

"don't afraid to be messy." he pushes your head down, admittedly focused on his own pleasure, and enjoying how full your mouth is with him. "I love messy girls."

you pull off him and lick from his base to his tip before taking him back into your mouth, and for the first time that night, you feel the imbalance of power shift from him to you as his knees buckle and he lets out a soft fuuck.

[interregionalgyminspections]

For trainers who are seeking to complete a gym circuit and are just starting out, here's a few tips:

In most regions, you can complete the gyms in any order you want. The amount of badges you have will determine at what skill level a gym leader will battle you at. If you're having trouble with a gym, try seeking out a different gym leader, and battle them first, to hone your skills more.

Don't be afraid to ask other trainers for advice! There's a lot you can learn from your peers. From battle strategies, to helping with training, to exchanging items, it's very often worthwhile to talk to other trainers while out and about. You might even make a few friends and/or rivals!

Make sure to pack adequate supplies, and know how to use them! A tent and sleeping bag are always a good idea, especially out on some of the harsher routes. Like food, water, and air, shelter is a basic need, so don't forget to pack it with you.

[glisten-inthedark]

This is a Rant, continue at your own risk

Look, I'm not even going to lie I've read a bunch of things from a Mil*even blog that has both like seriously peeved, so if you don't want to be hit with a bunch of thoughts just scroll by and be on your marry way because now I'm going to speak my mind. Excuse moi.

Will Byers is one of the most annoying, unimportant characters of the show.

Ok, ok. Cool, cool, cool. I'm guessing I watched another first episode then. I guess the pilot of the show was actually called "The Boy on The Woods" or "The Vanishing" or whatever other thing that wasn't actually "The Vanishing of Will Byers". Ok, my bad. Mistakes can happen.

But if that's the case then I'm pretty sure I watched the whole wrong season, the one in which, you know, they spent 8 episodes aka one week focusing on trying to find this very unimportant child. And I'm guessing it was the magical wind that opened the shed door too, got it.

And if asked, I also want to state for the record that you know, Harry Potter is also unimportant and not the boy who lived, and that Luke Skywalker is equally unimportant and not the one that the prophecy spoke off.

The whole story starts with the disappearance of Will Byers, and it progresses as he is possessed by the Mind Flayer and then starts to feel it and Vecna by the end of season 4.

And him being able to feel the Mind Flayer and Vecna. Does that sound oddly familiar? Yeah, if you're thinking Harry + Voldemort I'm sure you can see where I'm going with it. But in this case, Vecna, unlike Voldemort, (and oh, both lack noses and have names that start with V's) doesn't appear to want to kill Will (that we know for now) so maybe there's a fucking reason?

Now that we got the first part covered, let's talk about how he's supposedly annoying.

Will Byers is the most caring, selfless character of the show. He had his hopes, his dreams, torn apart when he got taken.

When he came back, all he wanted was to believe that he could have a part of his childhood back. That's it.

All Will has ever wanted was for Mike to be in his life.

All he ever wanted was to be Mike's best friend. Will doesn't expect Mike to love him back, he stopped believing that would happen long time ago.

To say he is annoying when he has constantly forgiven Mike over and over again is just petty.

Vecna is more afraid of Eleven

Well, obviously. But that's because I don't think the purpose Will serves is to stop Vecna, when he was talking about the Mind Flayer he explicity states that it wants to kill everyone else. (The except him is very much implied, though). So why is that?

Mike and El's relationship doesn't have issues

You know what I find it interesting? Is that this is so clearly not true that I can't understand what they mean.

Ok, let's forget about the whole "not spend time with his friends" bit. We know how relationships can be, especially when they're young, so ok I can understand that.

What I can't understand is how they can think it's normal for Mike and El to continuously lie to each other. And the lies aren't small, they are big lies.

El lies about every single aspect of her life in Lenora, she goes as far as to beg for her bully to help her because she doesn't want to break the facade.

Mike makes El feel like she's a monster. Like he's scared of her. She tells him how he says doesn't say he loves her and his first response isn't to say: What you're talking about?

Its to say: I say it and we are provided with the information that he can't even write it. Almost like what he says doesn't align with we know to be fact. He then goes on to say that she's being ridiculous, and that she knows what he thinks (notice the lack of the world feels) about her. Mike, she isn't questioning the idea you have of her, she's questioning your love for her when she shouldn't have.

If she doesn't feel secure enough in that love, there might be a reason right? But what do I know?

Will needs to learn to accept himself and needs to understand Mike loves Eleven and that's his arc.

Ok, let's say this is true.

Let's claim, for the sake of argument, that this is the point and recap from there.

Mike and Eleven didn't actually have a conversation by the end of the season, their main issue, which even is how Mike feels or doesn't feel but that they don't understand each other, has yet to be resolved.

Saying I love you didn't help El win, and there are lies in what he says to her as well. He claims that he knew from the moment he met her that he loved her, but if that's the case then his actions directly contradict the claim.

If he knew he loved her then, why would he try to send her away to a mental institution? Why would he be so rude towards her?

I could write this off as him not knowing he loved her, but he says that knew that he did so I'm guessing I'm slightly confused? Which one is it?

If he told Eleven that he feel in love with ler little by little, that he's learned all the things there is to love about her I could buy it, but with the way it was worded it doesn't seem to be the case.

It appears to me that people are under the impression that Will believes that one day Mike could love him back. He may have believed that during season 2, but by the time season 3 and 4 came, this stopped being the case.

Will was ready to sacrifice everything, even his art, for Mike. He's not living under the illusion he'd ever have a happy ending, he doesn't seem to think he'll ever find love, not like what he has with Mike.

So, what is the song and dance all about? If this is the case already, we are already at this point, all they needed to do was get Mike to tell Will.

"Look, El doesn't know shit about DnD so I know you weren't talking about her. Were those words yours? Yeah. Ok, Will... You're very important to me, but I love El. I accept you, and you'll always be my friend, but I can't love you like that". That's it. Would it hurt? Yes. But again, Will already thinks this is what he's going to hear anyway.

Byler bating vs Queerbating

I made this joke before but at this point I don't even think it's a joke, more of an statement.

I'd call queerbaiting if they hadn't established Will as queer, but the fact that they did is what gives me pause. Look children, I've been down this road before ok. Been there, done that.

They have established Will as queer and at no point did it feel like they were making him the punchline of a cruel joke.

Say that Mike doesn't feel the same and Will needs to let him go. Again. WE ALREADY THINK THIS IS THE CASE. Most of Bylers believed that to be fact in 2022. People were angry, upset and all that jazz.

Sure, Will learning self acceptance is important, but clinging onto that and forgetting his romantic arc would be nothing short of cruel. Will doesn't want some random guy. He said it so himself. Mike is the only person that has ever made him feel good about himself, Mike is the only person he'll always need. This isn't some passing crush.

Its the choice of making Will so in love with Mike that legit has me questioning these writers if the whole point was to get El and Mike back together.

I just have more to say but I need sleep. I might come back to this tomorrow. You are all welcomed to share your thoughts on my points and disagree if that's the case.

I love hearing other people's opinions on things

[that1geek06]

Hey, could you make a Carlos DeVil x Male Reader (platonic)? The reader is Ben's father and Beast's husband (I'm going to completely ignore that Belle exists) and he kind of adopts Carlos, being a father figure and family that Carlos never had.

OMG YOU GUYS I feel so popular 😍 I love that I have the descendents fandom here rn, but this request, anon I don't even know who belle is, last I checked Ben has two amazing dads who take in Carlos and the story goes smth like this..

-FATHER FIGURE(S)-

Carlos DeVil x Bens Dad!Reader

Warnings: Nonee pure fluff (lmk if I'm wrong tho)

When Ben went to his fathers about letting VK'S into the isle, he never imagined that one of his dads would embrace it so much.

Y/N was the more calm and understanding one of the couple, so while Adam was worried and skeptical about letting them in. Y/N encouraged it, even convincing his husband to go with it.

While the beginning was rough, things slowly started to fall into place, and as Ben and Mals relationship bloomed, his dad Y/N was making one for himself.

When they first met properly it was an accident, Y/N was walking down the long halls of the palace to the library when a small talking dog suddenly ran into his legs.

"I am NOT taking a bath, I hate water, go back to being scared of me and leave me alone." The dog spoke, and Y/N chuckled. Picking up the same animal.

"Your not very good at running away if your just going to run into another person." He said, and the dog groaned at being captured. And after a spilt second, A head of white and black hair comes sprinting around the corner. Only to stop abruptly at the sight of one of the kings holding his pet.

Carlos bows his head, not really knowing what to do. "I-Im sorry your highness! I didn't mean to let him run loose in the castle, he slipped from my hands and-" Carlos was cut off by a laugh.

"You can look up, I'm not mad at all. I needed some entertainment to my boring day." Y/N smiles at the boy. "If I'm not mistaken, you are Carlos correct?"

His eyes widen at that, not expecting the king to address him so nicely. "Yeah, I am." Y/N smiles at that. "Well its nice to meet you, and your dog is..?"

Before Carlos can even answer the dog spoke for himself, "Its dude, and I am NOT taking a bath." Y/N laughs harder. "I'm afraid your wash is inevitable, but perhaps if Carlos is willing, it could be stalled?" He looks up at the teen.

"What do you mean?" Carlos asks.

"I was about to head down to the library, its my favourite place to relax. But it gets lonely as well. Would you care to join me?" Not expecting that answer, Carlos's eyes widened. He thought for a moment before nodding. "Yeah, it could be fun."

So the two walked to the library together, along with dude. Chatting about anything and everything.

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

That was how it started, and they got closer. The attention of the adult that Carlos got was unlike anything he received. If wasn't the tight lipped smiles like the staff, or the manipulative love like his mother.

No.

Y/N cared. He had genuine interest in Carlos as a whole. He helped with school, teen drama, sports, advice, when he just needed to rant. Carlos could almost say he was like a dad to him.

But as their Visits became more frequent. His friends started to get curious. He doesn't know why but he didn't want to tell them of his relationship with one of the kings.

So any time they would ask, he would blush and mumble some random excuse. Making sure to bring dude with him and bolting out of the dorms.

But they were all to curious now, and one day was the final straw.

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

Today sucked to put it lightly. Carlos spent all week studying for this test, and despite Y/N's advice he stayed up all night too, getting no sleep. And it was all just to fail.

And then during lunch he slipped and spilled mash potatoes and gravy all over himself.

But to top it all off, Chad was unrelenting in targeting him during practice. And it was to much.

On the brink of tears, Carlos storms into the dorm room to change.

The rest of the group was relaxing in the room waiting, looking at Jay to try and find answers to which he just shrugged.

When the over stimulated boy came back out of the bathroom the group immediately began to express their worries.

"What's wrong?" Evie asked.

"Did something happen?" Mal added.

"If you need to talk we are here you know?" Jay said, and the whole group nodded. But without a word Carlos ran out. And dude, knowing where he was going. Jumped out of bed to follow.

All of them being extremely worried for their friend. They followed as well.

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

Y/N was going through some documents when his office doors were burst open. He opens his mouth to chastise the person when he looks up and sees the very distraught boy there. Panting with water eyes.

His eyebrows furrow with concern and he stands, immediately going to him. "Carlos? What's the matter?" Y/N asks, but instead of getting an answer, the teen hugs him tightly, and he cries.

The kings heart clenched at this. He embraces Carlos tightly while gently rubbing his back. "Shhh its alright, just breath."

Soon enough dude comes running in, immediately sitting at their feet, wanting to help comfort the boy as well.

What Y/N wasn't expecting was seeing his friends and even his son staring with wide eyes. But he shoots them a gently smile. One that promises an explanation later.

He makes eye contact with Ben, and as if they had a silent conversation. His son nods and softly closes the door to his office.

Turning his attention back to Carlos, he notices that the boy has calmed down. Unwrapping his arms to wipe his eyes.

"What's going on Carlos?" Y/N asks in a soft voice.

The teens sniffs, shaking his head and taking a deep breath. "Today really sucked and I-... I don't know if I'm cut out for this." He responds quietly.

Y/N smiled sadly. "Well, can I tell you a story?"

Confused, Carlos just nods. And the king took a deep breath before starting.

"You see, A long time ago, there was this boy. He grew up in a small town that had a very fixed mindset. But you see this boy didn't like to be stuck in that mindset. All the people viewed him as weird. His likes and dislikes were so uncommon that many would talk about him behind his back, or so they thought but he heard everything."

Closing his eyes he pauses, before continuing.

"It was like that for most of his life, until he finally found someone else who wasn't like the others, and while it took a lot of warming up. They eventually fell for each other. This other man cared about his interests and didn't reject them. He helped the boy grow and see more of what he liked. And the boy helped the other to become a better person. And just like any cheesy love story, they fell in love."

Y/N chuckles, but Carlos looks intrigued. "..but how is that supposed to help me?"

The adult looks eyes with him, voice as soft as it is serious. "Carlos, as long as you have people who love you for who you are, you can do anything you want. And I know for a fact you have a group right outside those doors that do."

The teen glances back at the doors, nodding softly. But he hesitates, looking back up at Y/N before sheepishly asking a question.

"what...what about you?"

The kings heart ached at the vulnerability in his voice, and he smiled comfortingly. "Oh I thought it was quite obvious that I care about you."

He watches at Carlos's shoulders visibly relax, before he springs forward into a hug. Y/N laughs as he returns it.

"All always be here for you, your an amazing kid, and I know you'll do good in Auradon."

Carlos felt his heart swell. And he just hugs the man tighter, showing rather than saying how much this meant to him.

How nice it felt to have someone comfort him, not have a caring father figure.

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

AWWWW WE LOVE A FLUFFY ENDING, but anyways I know I died for a while but I swear I'm going to get back on top of things. YOU SHALL NO LONGER BE STARVED OF FICS. But I hope this made your day dream more of a reality anon!! Let me know if there's anything I can do to improve, grab a snack, and happy reading to you goobers 👽

[echobx]

The Blessing - Rafe Cameron × plus size!fem!reader

summary: Rafe and y/n are at an event and he can't keep his hand off her. [blurb belongs to this series but can be read by itself]

word count: 840

warnings: pda, edging, formal wear, making out, dry humping (clothes stay on)

author's note: idk how much I like this. I feel like I fucked up but it's okay, it still feels genuine in the possible continuation of the series.

kinktober masterlist ✘ Not My Type masterlist

“You look hot in that suit,” you lean over, whispering in Rafe's ear before you walk off, continuing to charm potential buyers and brokers. You know he's watching you, barely getting any work done like that, but you don't mind it. Your relationship with Rafe is still somewhat of a secret. Sure, everyone in your office knows, but that doesn't mean the rest of the world needs to, especially not your father who is somewhere around the house, showing it off to some of his long-standing partners. 

Your back is turned, chatting to a woman twice your age, when you feel his hand press into the small of your back. “Excuse me, Miss, but Ms. y/l/n has a call waiting in another room,” Rafe says, and you turn your head to look up at him. “I'm sure it can wait a moment,” you tell him, but he shakes his head and looks at you with hungry eyes. “I'm afraid not.” 

As soon as the door falls into its lock behind you, he's kissing you senseless. His hands roaming your body and resting on your full breasts and squeezing harshly. “Why’d you do that?” he asks breathlessly, loosening his tie and caging you in against a bookcase. “Do what?” you feign innocence. “Get me riled up and leave my hanging,” Rafe pouts, pushing his bottom lip a bit to the front while brushing over your hair. He knows to not mess it up because it took you hours to get the curls done perfectly. “You could just wait until we're home,” you bat your lashes at him, running your hands along the opened front of his jacket. “This place has 5 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms and a dozen other rooms we could use, not even counting all the closets,” he says and you smile. “Good to know you take your job seriously.” “I'd rather take you, seriously,” he mumbles, kissing you softly. 

That's how you end up with him rutting against your hip while kissing you, letting him search for any type of relief that you can grant him instantly, one that won't ruin your reputation too much in case someone saw. “Gonna eat you out so good when we get home,” Rafe quietly moans against your lips. “That a promise?” you sigh, pulling on his hair but chasing his lips with your own. “Fuck, sugar, just let me,” he whines and right when you want to zip his pants open and help him out, the door is opened and no other than your father is standing in the doorway. 

“Mr. Cameron?” he sounds more confused over the “who” than the fact that he walked in on you. “Dad, I can explain,” you start, but he refuses to look at you, his eyes fixed on Rafe, who is running his hands over his hair. “Mr. Cameron, a word,” your dad demanded, and there was nothing you could do to help with it. Rafe would be on his own, and you really didn't like the thought of it. With an apologetic glance at him, you made your way out of the room and back towards the party. 

Ten minutes later, Rafe is back by your side, leaning down to whisper, “always sleeping yourself to the top, I heard. And I thought I was doing that.” You turn your head to look at him, confusion displayed on your face. “I don't-” “He apologized for your behavior, which is very nice, because if you weren't so,” he took a moment to admire you while searching for the right word, “driven and fast in your choices, he would've run into me actually fucking you against that shelf.” “He knows? You told him?” your heart is nearly beating out of your chest, unsure if it's relief or anxiety. “Yeah. Shouldn't I?” Rafe furrows his brows. “I don't know,” you shake your head, your eyes landing on your dad, who is looking at you from across the room. “Couldn't possibly ask for his blessing if he didn't know we're already together,” Rafe smirks, and it takes a moment for you to register what he said. “You what?” you gasp, quietly. “Relax, just because I asked him doesn't mean we will do it immediately. I haven't even planned the proposal,” he smiles, taking your hand up to kiss it. “What if I say no?” you whisper, unsure what to think of his rather quick planning. “Then I'll respect it and ask again when you're more sure about it. Or we don't have to marry. We can just have all those mini-you’s running around without my name legally attached to them,” he shrugs as if it's the most normal and obvious thing to talk about and do. “Let's just get through this and then go home.” “You're a hoe, you know that?” you giggle, and he leans down to kiss you. “Just for you,” Rafe whispers and closes the small distance that is left between you, and it feels nice to kiss him without having to hide it. 

please don't copy and/or post my work onto other platforms! ~e©ho

taglist: @redhead1180 @spideysimpossiblegirl @drwstarkeyy @princessmaybank @kys4-20 @immyowndefender @julczimozart @hoe4sunarin @m2m2m2 @mochimms @itsme-again @maybankslover @th3eternalersi @because-i-like-toxic-men @rafeeekam @carolinaxvz

[whataboutsimple]

— Ladies, gentlemen and other intelligent people - welcome to tonight's Show "Words of admiration!" And special guest this time is none other than Simple himself! Applause!

Clap Clap Clap

— Yeah, yeah, thanks everybody!

Simple took the microphone

— Feels nice be here again. Last time I got invitation, it was during Undertale Fandom era. But, ah, let's not talk about past, lats talk about here and now!

Simple shifted microphone in the hands

— For those of you who don't know what is going on: "Words of admiration" is basically a show of different people praising other different people for their achievements for the fandom or for simply being a good human!

Simple looked through front rows

— And I have a bunch of people to say thank you to! Well, at least I sent them invitations - but it's of course their choice to whether visit or not.

@tippedarrows

— Who would be surprised, sure not me, the first one who I want to say thank you to is my Captain! You've done such a great job by spreading kindness in the fandom, protecting those who need it and giving everyone a safe place to ramble and be themselves! Really nice seeing people go to you for happy chit-chat about their hc or ships!

Simple laughed

— And you helped me a lot! Those interactions we had felt so nice and warm! I can never thank you enough for answering for my first ever ask, because doubt I would be as active as I am now, if you didn't! And I should be especially thankful for our talks about Gabriel, since not a lot of people likes him! Thank you, Captain.

@mrballpit

— Sure when we talk about Captain, we can't forget about Coins! Lovely human, who's as kind as their fiance. And funny too! You may not post as much, but you still give people warm feelings and silly giggles with every your art! Never worry about your art, because it's always good and pretty!

Simple shifted microphone in his hands

— It's pitty for me we though, that we didn't interact as much, as we did with your fiance. And still! With such a little interaction you gave me millions of pleasant emotions that I will not forget! Thank you, Coins!

@murkystarlight

— When talking about good people, I can't just leave Murky-friend out there. You're so good! Trust me when I say your hcs and character analysis are the best! Feels so nice scrolling through my page and stumble across a unique thought of yours! And you always so kind and responsive to those, who wants to have a conversation!

Simple looked away

— And I can't even describe with words how thankfull I am for each of your comments, kudos and asks! Such a heartwarming feeling everytime I see a notification about you! Don't be afraid punch me anytime you want to talk, I'm always open for you! Thank you, Murky-friend.

@basilthesnakingthing

— Hehe.. can't say "MCSM" without "Admins", am I right? Basil here is a good example of a human, who really loves learning their favorites under the microscope! Let's applause them for having such a deep thoughts on whatever subject anyone can pull out!

Simple shifted microphone in hands

— Personally I loved every interaction we had so far, and your Swap AU! Your interesting concepts and view of a characters always impressed me. And without you I would never draw my admin-sona, so another thank you for that! Thank you, Basil!

@yourdarlingwarrior

— Who we will remember when someone says "Gabriel"? No, no, it's not me, it's them of course! Such a creative type of content about unpopular characters is not something we see everyday.. and that's way I appreciate what they do even more! Not only because it's about Gabriel, but because of a hardwork they put in it!

Simple gave them Gabriel plushy

— Here you go. You can put him near Romeo and get VioletCrystals! I'm so glad you introduced me to Romeo/Gabriel ship, because of that I've done so much content in my blog and people love it! You're also a very pleasant companion, chit-chat we had was wonderful, so thank you!

@sillysnaildraws and @ivormybeloved

— When we talk about AU, what we remember? Of course Idol and Delusional AU! Such a creative concepts here, we should thank their authors! Feel so nice to read every piece of info you two can throw at us from time to time! Idol AU is so unique with concept of "star eyes", "actors" and ect., meanwhile Delusional AU is a great example that you don't always need screamers to scare somebody!

Simple shifted microphone in hands

— Even if we didn't have many personal interactions, still every single one we had is such a wonderful experience! I really appreciate the kindness you put in words between us! Thank you!

@mcsm-r0ckz

— Unique ships? MCSM-R0CKZ! Unique ships? MCSM-R0CKZ! Yep, that's the first name that came up in my silly mind. Though some people might not understand it, but you're a good example of how the fandom should be! Funny, relaxed and nonjudgmental against other people's tastes! This spark you see between Aiden and Axel or Olivia and Stella will always be in my mind!

Simple looked away

— Personally I would like to apologize for not saying anything during "discord drama". I simply was to afraid to participate, even though I had a great sympathy for you. I love Axden and Stardust content you post, so please accept my apology and thank you for the work you're doing for the fandom!

Simple shifted microphone in hands

— Last, but not least.. dear G! Anon who's been with me for quite a time. I think I know who you might be, but as you wish to stay anonymous, I won't tag you. All I wanted to say is thank you for throwing fuel to my Gabriel content! It really means a lot to me, since if it wasn't you, I would probably post something fandoms love more. But! I don't, and it's your merit, thank you G!

Simple looked at the clock

— Hah, look at that! I'm rambling here a little too much, guess that's time for my last goodbye!

Simple left the microphone and Automatic Chicken Farm OST starts playing.

[other-shades-of-sapphire]

Just in case – Lee Know

Minho x high school friend turned girlfriend Iris, circa September 2024

Even after years of being together, Iris was still not used to being taken care of. And even after years of being together, Minho was always ready and prepared, just in case.

This is for all my fellow girls with the eldest daughter syndrome out there; because we need a reminder from time to time that it is, in fact, okay, to let ourselves be taken care of every once in a while.

Minho only saw the text around half an hour later, during the short break in between practice sessions. He thought he'd never clicked on the call button so quickly in his life. 

Iris answered on the second ring. "Hey. Didn't expect you to read the text this fast." 

"We have this thing called breaks," Minho told her. Then he noticed the faint sound of traffic from her end. "Are you driving to Pohang? Alone?" 

"Yes and yes. How else was I supposed to go there?" 

"I don't know, maybe take the perfectly fine train? You know, with significantly less travel time and you can just sit back and relax while it gets you there?" 

"Then I'll have to ask someone to come pick me up at the station." 

"So be it? Hell, I'll order you a car from here myself." 

Iris sighed. Minho hated himself for immediately knowing where this was going. "You know I don't like depending on people." 

"Even on me?" 

"I'm still working on it. Besides," Iris added before Minho could interrupt, "having one more car around helps the logistics to transport people around. Not all of my relatives have one, and I have quite a handful of aunts and uncles and cousins." 

Minho found himself fighting to keep the frustration out of his tone. "Iris, that is not your responsibility." 

This was far from his first rodeo of reasoning with Iris' chronic eldest daughter syndrome. Throughout the four years of their relationship he had to convince her numerous times that not everything was her responsibility, that it was okay to let other people take care of her from time to time. She already started loosening up with Minho by letting him do small things for her: making her light bites, buying her things she needed, driving her around whenever he had the time. But when it comes to her family, especially the extended family from her mother's side – who all always saw and treated Iris the eldest grandchild as an adult, even before she legally became one, due to her responsible nature – it seemed like everything Minho had tried just disappeared and they were back to square one. She's back to the eldest grandchild who just had to take care of everyone, even those older than her. 

Through the phone, he heard her hissed through her teeth. "It still feels like it. I know you've been trying to help me with this, I'm sorry." 

Didn't want to revisit the recurring issue over a phone call, let alone at a time like this, Minho suppressed his sigh. "I'll just have to try harder from now on then. How are you feeling?" 

There's a beat of pause. "I don't know, but on the top of my head? I want to get there as soon as possible because I'm afraid it's gonna be messy. This uncle, his wife is one emotional aunty and their children are still, like, pre-school age and basically a baby. I fear she might cause a disruption for her children in her grief." 

Minho had to hold his tongue from shooting her another "that's not your responsibility". Instead he asked, "How about your mother? How is she taking it?" 

"She was crying when she called me," Iris sighed. "But knowing her, I think she's gonna spend the entire drive there crying her eyes out, just so that she can put up a front and be composed once she's there." 

Like mother, like daughter, Minho couldn't help but think. But he didn't let that one out loud. "She's not driving, though, right?" 

"No, the entire gang are coming down from Gimpo. Think my dad and brother take turns for the wheel." 

At that time, Jeongin's head poked out of the practice room's door. "Hyung, we'll start again in a minute." 

"Okay, I'll be right there." 

"You have to go?" Iris asked. 

"Yeah." Minho didn't like the thought of Iris spending the three-plus hours' drive all alone. He knew perfectly well that she could take care of herself, but it didn't make him feel any better about it. Right now there's nothing he could do about it, though, so he just had to bear it and settled with, "Please drive carefully, okay?" 

"As if I'm not one of the best drivers you've ever known," she said in a teasing tone, but Minho knew she understood his underlying sentiment nonetheless. 

"You know I'm one call away. Just in case." 

"I do know that." 

"And please try to remember that not everything that is happening over there, however messy, is your responsibility," Minho said slowly, hoping to increase the impact of the important message. "Take care of yourself too, you hear me?" 

Iris didn't answer right away. 

"Iris?" 

"Alright," she finally muttered in a soft tone. "Thanks, kitten." 

It's been hours since Iris last reacted to his message, but still Minho hadn't heard anything else from her since. 

Frowning, Minho put his phone down to the kitchen counter and put his focus back to the pudding he was nursing. He knew she would be busy with things and wouldn't have time to be on her phone, but still Minho wasn't able to go to bed peacefully without hearing from her. He hadn't heard of how "messy" things were over there, and he wanted to be here to provide what emotional support he could give her when she finally had time to update him. Hence the decision to get out of bed altogether and wait for her with this vanilla pudding he really liked. 

"You looked like the pudding did something to offend you." 

Minho looked up and saw Jisung walking into their shared kitchen, still in his outside clothes – as if he just got home. "What were you doing out until this hour?" 

Yawning, Jisung dumped himself on the chair across Minho. "Working on a couple songs with the hyungs at Changbin and Hyunjin's." 

"Poor Hyunjin. Even his new place is still disturbed by shirtless dudes eating chicken breasts." 

Jisung laughed at the old reference. "Nah, he's had enough of us and decided to have a sleepover with Jeongin at his and Chris hyung's place. Now, what are you doing still up until this hour? Surely not to pick a fight with your pudding?" 

Minho sighed. "I'm waiting for Iris." 

"What, is the noona coming here? At this hour?" 

As Minho filled him in with the necessary details, Jisung helped himself to Minho's abandoned pudding. "You know, even after all these years, it still feels a little weird seeing you being a softy like this," he admitted after swallowing the last spoonful of pudding. "I mean, you never stayed up this late to give me emotional support." 

Minho snorted. "That's because I know you'll ask yourself, even wake me up in the middle of the night if you have to. Iris, on the other hand, would never ask, so I just need to be prepared and offer it to her. Just in case." 

"Fair point," Jisung chuckled. "But still, that's so sweet of you. It's a foreign look on you, but it's a good one." 

Before Minho could rebut, his phone on the kitchen counter pinged, its screen flashing a new message with Iris' picture on it. Noticing it too, Jisung stood up, bringing the now-empty pudding cup with him. "I guess that's my cue to leave you alone. Night, hyung." 

Took ten second of silence before Minho's phone lit up again, this time announcing a call from Iris. He thumbed the green button immediately. "Hi there." 

"Are you really staying up just to wait for me?" she blurted. 

"Yeah, just in case." 

"Why are you always sweet to me?" 

"Someone has to," Minho said firmly. "Because you're not being sweet to yourself, especially around your extended family over there. How's it going, by the way?" 

There was a few seconds of pause. "Can we not go over that now?" she asked quietly. "I don't think I can tell you about it without going through a full-force, mindless rant, and I can't afford that right now. Need to stay level-headed for the funeral tomorrow." 

Oh dear, Minho thought. So it was that level of messy. "Of course. What do you need?" 

"You really don't have to do anything, you know," Iris muttered. 

"I know, but just in case. So, ideas to make you feel better. Go." 

Another pause, then: "Can you... just, talk? Tell me about your day, or anything really. I'll listen." 

It was an rare dynamic between them. Iris was usually the talker among the two, and Minho had always been more than glad to listen to anything she was talking about, from her experience of buying groceries to her thoughts about the new health policy. For her to ask him to talk was very rare, and it always happened on the worst of her days, the kind that drained her towards zero – and for Iris, who possessed seemingly limitless energy most of the time, it took a lot to drain her. 

Truth be told, Minho had had an exhausting day himself, and talking definitely sat on the bottom of things he wanted to do at the moment. But he wanted to provide some sort of support for Iris any way he could, and if to do so he had to talk his mouth off, then talking it is. 

Even though he wasn't as good of a storyteller as Iris and had to put in the effort to think of interesting bits to share with her – something that always seemed to come so naturally for her. 

Iris seemed to notice this eventually. "I'm sorry," she said when she finished laughing at Minho's story about the mishap he had with Changbin in the practice room earlier. "You're exhausted, and I'm making you yap." 

"Did it work though? Make you feel better?" 

"It does," she said, in a small but pleasant voice. "Makes me feel a lot better. Thanks a lot for that." 

Minho smiled, filled with the sense of pride he always felt knowing he made her feel better. It was as if every thought he'd ever had about being exhausted faded away to nothingness. "When are you coming back?" 

She let out a sigh, but it sounded more of content, as if the mere idea of going home was pleasant enough for her. "Tomorrow. No matter what happens, I will be on my merry way in the afternoon. I'm setting boundaries on taking care of people here, kitten, aren't you proud of me?" 

"That's great! Glad what I've been doing for the past few years left some dent in there." 

"That, and Mom made me promise to be scarce by 3 p.m. the latest. She said I've done enough." 

"Hear hear," Minho said firmly. "You should go have some sleep then. You need some if you're going to be driving tomorrow." 

Before Iris could answer, Minho heard a faint sound of a baby crying on her end. She sighed; not contentedly this time, rather as if she was bracing herself. "That's my cousin." 

Minho could hardly believe her. "Iris Park, are you freaking babysitting right now?" 

"It's the youngest of my late uncle, Minho. Her mother is currently too distracted to care for her." 

Minho knew he should be holding back, shouldn't risk breaching the sensitive topic at this hour with the two of them being exhausted, but he couldn't help himself. "Iris, my flower, that is not your responsibility."

Another sigh. "I know, but it's the least I can do. I should go – talk to you later, kitten." 

"Try to get some sleep!" Minho managed to say just before she hung up. Though, knowing Iris, he doubted she'd get any blink at all tonight. 

Putting his phone down to the counter, Minho pressed the heels of his palms to his closed eyes. If he hadn't liked the thought of Iris driving the three hundred-plus kilometers distance between Seoul and Pohang before, he disliked the idea of her driving said distance with little to no sleep even more. 

Then an idea suddenly occurred to him. It just so happened that he had these two days off; he'd planned to spend some time with his mother, who's currently in town for the next couple days, but now his brain was starting to formulate a different plan. His mother would understand, he thought, because she loved Iris too. 

Which was why, on the next day past lunchtime, Minho found himself getting off the car he'd ordered to take him from the train station to the address Iris' father had given him. It was a small house her mother had bought before moving to Gimpo, where their family always stayed whenever they came here, and that was currently empty because everyone was still at the late uncle's residence for the funeral wake – as promised by Iris' father, a means to ensure Minho's privacy. Minho couldn't help but feel touched by the thoughtful gesture. 

Despite already being told where they kept the spare key and to "make himself at home", Minho decided to wait on the front porch and get comfortable on one of the chairs there instead. Hence when the car he recognized as Iris' entered the driveway not an hour later, he immediately saw it and got to his feet in an instant. 

"What the – " Even over the sound of the car's machine, Minho could already hear Iris' exclamation from inside the vehicle. She quickly turned off the engine and scrambled out of the car, making her way to Minho with long, heavy strides. "What in the world are you doing here?" 

Minho grinned at her. "Just in case you need something more than listening to me yap." 

"But why – when – how did you – " She seemed to be at a loss of words. Still grinning, Minho opened his arms just a little bit, just as a little suggestion. Just in case. 

Iris seemed to catch on the hint. With a defeated sigh, she finally stepped forward and into Minho's arms, letting him envelope her in a hug and hold her tight. He felt her melt against him, burying her face on the crook of his neck. "I have so many questions," she said, her voice muffled. "But not gonna lie, I'm also very, very tired." 

"That's okay," he murmured to her hair. "You can both ask your questions and have your overdue rest on our way back to Seoul." 

She lifted her head to look at him. "Did you seriously come here only to drive me back?" 

Minho shrugged. "You know, just in case." 

"Unbelievable," she said, as if to scold him, but the effect was softened because she was leaning her forehead to his. "Lee Minho, I've told you many many times before, you can't just keep doing things like this for me." 

"I'm not doing this for you though," Minho countered. "I'm doing this for me. Doing things like this makes me happy." 

Iris let out a half-hearted scoff. "Traveling from Seoul to Pohang just to drive me back to Seoul makes you happy?" 

"It does." He gave her shoulders a little squeeze. "Because I get to take care of you, something not many other people get to do. And as I've told you many many times before, you better get used to it because I'm not stopping." 

She held his gaze for a few silent seconds, then offered a small smile. "Thank you," she said softly. 

Minho leaned forward to press a kiss on her forehead. "Now let's go get your stuff and go home."

previously on

Find more stories from Minho & Iris and the rest of Stray Kids here!

[princess-glassred]

Alright hot take incoming:

Beverly Marsh in it 2017 is a terribly written female character and i'm tired of pretending like she's not.

As a woman, I love Bev in fics, I love 90's bev, I love fannon Bev, and this is no discredit to Sophia Lillis as an actor, or even 2017 Bev's personality, but it 2017 Bev is a perfect example of a character being fine but everything else about her being incredibly anti feminist (in my opinion).

First of all there's all the slut shaming, now don't get me wrong, i'd get it if this was just greta and henry and her dad. They're antagonists and it makes sense for the time period, BUT Bev is not jusy slut shamed by the antagonists, she's indirectly kind of slut shamed by the narritive. When Richie first meets her he tells rumors about her sleeping around, especially with Henry Bowers and he faces almost little to no pushback. Yeah eddie tells him to shut up, and Bill says "they're just rumors" but it really shouldn't matter if they're just rumors or not. The movie seems to think that the slut shaming is bad because she isn't sleeping with anyone, when slut shaming should be bad just because its a fuckin mean thing to do. Even if she did date Henry, who the fuck cares? It's literally her life, obviously she doesn't like him now. Also the way Richie words it as "Bill had her in the third grade" is 🤢.

In the bathroom scene they take time out of cleaning just so she can clarify to Bill that he's the only one she's ever kissed so I guess Bill can feel like a real special man. Even though she doesn't owe Bill really anything, let alone reassurance that she's only kissed him once. I'd absolutely understand if this was Bev reacting to her CSA, assuming she needs to make them men around her feel special by having a low body count, but the movie portays this scene as really sweet and romantic so i doubt it's the case.

The movie sexualizes Bev so much, and again, i'd understand if this was supposed to be commentary about her CSA but a lot of it is genuinely meant to further the plot or played off for laughs. Almost every single scene she has is about her sexual history or which guy she ends up with. Even Ben, who's entire thing is he's hopelessly in love with Bev gets more of a personality than just that. She's called a slut by greta keene, flirts with ben outside, """flirts""" with Mr. Keene to steal his shit, leaves the pharmacy to get oggled by Bill in slowmo, gets slut shamed by richie, gets oggled at the quarry, ect.

The movie also tries to act like she's a much stronger female than she really is, it reminds me a lot of in the 90's when they'd have those tough bad ass women who could sword fight and stuff but they'd always inevitably be kidnapped because of gener roles. I do admit that the scene of her jamming the fence post through pennhwise is cool, and so is the scene where she hits her dad, but her badassness is incredibly underminded in a lot of ways. First of all when they're asked who wants to go in she's the only one to raise her hand but she STILL doesn't go inside. Why? What possible reason could the narrative give as to why she stayed outside? To comfort Stan??? God forbid a girl helps save the boys unless it's in the smallest way possible. And then she gets kidnapped and essentially used as a plot device just for the boys to get back together. We can't just have them work things out and apologize and show up for each other because they're friends, they all need a woman to go rescue.

Having Beverly say "I am not afraid of you" is just lip service when you still have her be a damsel in distress, which she is officially rendered right after pennywise puts her in the deadlights. And now we come to the worst part of this whole thing, which is the deadlights kiss. Now, i'm some one who will defend snow white and sleeping beauty with my life, because i know how fairytale curses work and with sleeping beauty phillip is out right told that's what he has to do. This is not what happens in the movie. Ben and Bill see Bev dangling there, and after like half a second of trying to snap her out of it decide kissing her is the only way to get her out of this. Ben even sees Bill do it and fail but instead of trying literally anything else he thinks "i love her more, maybe it'll work with me!".

Guys I do not give a shit about how much Bill and Ben care about Bev, if anything that just makes kissing her while she's out of it worse. You may try to justify this by saying it really was the only way for them to do it, but that still doesn't change the fact YOU wrote it that way. YOU decided the only way to save bev was to kiss her without consent. Which you actively contradict with richie getting caught in the dead lights and snapped out it in it chapter 2. Stephen King didn't even write that shit, say what you will about the child orgy, but at least Bev was awake for it. She consented about as much as a girl her age could given that she's only 11. That's way more problematic than this but at least it was her idea, at least she conciously decided this was worth doing. All you've done is take a creepy sexual act that was at the very least consenual and displayed some sexual agency in the character, with a creepy non sexual non consenual act that took away agency. How girlboss is it that her first kisses with her love interests weren't even while she could could consent? She is kissed three times, once during a play and twice while she's unconcious, neither of which are her idea. I'm not saying a woman always has to instigate things romantically, but if you spend your whole movie talking about how she's a slut, maybe you should give her some free reign over her love life.

This is why I love 90's Bev so much, she's just a little fiesty tomboy who saves the boys asses with a sling shot and an epic blow to the head. She doesn't get damseled in distressed (the only time she gets saved are when Ben defends her during the rock fight), the boys aren't overly horny over her, the only people who really treat her like her gender defines her are her father, Tom, and Henry she's just great. And that came out in the 90's! I don't think the 90's miniseries is necessarily better than the 2017 movies, but I think their treatment of Bev is just inherently more feminist given that they don't constantly try to define her by her body counts. Yes she loves ben, but she has more to her than that. Even if you bring up things like body count to try and say she isn't a slut who's obsessed with boys, it's still not feminist because you're still constantly equating her value to who she's with. The only proper way to adress slut shaming is by acknowledging it's none of the characters business what she does and that if you do it at all you suck. But IT 2017 doesn't do that, because Bev's sexual maturity is explored only through the eyes of men, and that includes the narrative.

Her promiscuity is explained through Richie when she's not even there (who i will give the benefit of the doubt here and say was being mysoginsitic to try and compensate for his queerness, but even then, using a woman's sex life as a tool to make yourself feel better is awful no matter your reason), she only consents to anything until the very end, and this movie tries to act like it's not doing any of it by giving her a few measily crumbs of strength outside of being the guys girlfriend. I never felt like IT 2017 was one of the guys, because the movie would never let her be that. Fuck.

If you are a woman, or even just AFAB and disagree with this you are free to, I do not speak for every woman in the world and if you feel differently I will not try to change that. I can only speak my truth though, and my truth is that it 2017 Bev pisses me off.

[your-darling-gaze]

The Wedding - Chapter 1

The evening was falling, I hastened around the room, trying to figure out if I was looking fine enough. 'Shouldn't have eaten rice the other night....bad, bad decision....' I think to myself, Nervously spinning as I eye my reflection in the mirror, a very visible bloat making me look fairly bulked, but I couldn't be thinking of all this right now.

I exhale, looking at the heap of make-up on my table, sighing. 'Should have started sooner...' I say, starting to pick out shades that fit in most likely.

The Pre-Wedding Dinner, of course, was something new to me.

Very new. The Theme was locked in. 'The 40s.' So of course, I had to look like a Good-Girl-Faith Lady. White, the very obvious for a bride, and floral, to make it look most decent, let us turn a blind eye to the neck line, please. After the Bachelorette Explorations of Europe, It had completely slipped my mind that I was not supposed to be looking for a matching blush 2 hours before the damn dinner.

I sigh into my hands, rubbing my face wearily as I tap away at my screen; the dialer ringing sounding more annoying than it usually does.

'Ro, Come help me out here.'

She was 'Rescue'. You know, Like...Iron Man's rescue? yeah. She owned up to that little nickname. Punctual and very, very loyal, she was inside the house exactly 4 minutes after that call ended. I could tell from the keys clinking, there she was.

'I told you, that you needed to get these things done in the damn afternoon itself!'

'I'm sorry! I was onto the caterers for tomorrow and I had to go pick out flowers and every thing...It completely-'

'Cher, Girl, Work.' She said, rinsing away at the heap of make up. Sometimes she is more practical with things than I am. When she isn't high, that is. I did of course, ask her to lay off on her stock for a while, at least since a week before the wedding. With a few needed things in hand, she and I were working on the sequence. The very staple.

First, Dress. Next, Hair. Then, Make-up.

'Where's the dress...? Tell me you did not leave it-'

'I did not leave it at the dry cleaners. Ro, Please, I'm not stupid, my dearest.'

'Well...'

'Not THAT stupid, Ro, please.'

I paused, my voice slightly silencing as I tried my damn hardest not to tear any gaps anywhere into the dress. Not that I looked like a trapped pigeon as I tried to fit, but anyway. 'Jesus, I'll donate a few million if I don't suffocate in this dress tonight...'

'Cher, why's it taking long to fit...?'

'I don't know~! I gave my right size, the same size that I gave for the gown too...'

'Hurry the fuck up or we're going to have an angry Bucky yelling up at us both...'

'Sorry.'

3 hours. Possibly the most frustrating time I've spent with my hair and make-up in my life. All to settle onto something vividly simple. I liked it that way.

'You look amazing.' 'Ro, please.' 'No, I'm not kidding. He's better faint when he see you.' 'Ro!' 'What..?'

I huffed, fixing up, one last time. Swallowing, as I unintentionally sucked in again. This was going to be a long, long night.

___________________________________________

I slowly made my way inside, fingers constantly occupied with spinning the ring, a slight anxiety. I know right, a social setting. Amazing. But this was...my dinner. Our dinner. I was afraid but I was happy too. The setting was perfect. Everything, just the right amount. The light dimmed to that perfect glow. Drinks that are always fizzy. Everyone dressed in their prettiest, vintage clothes. Odour of the barbeque grill, a sweet scent of my own lily soap on me. Ah, and...Jazz too.

Gazes turned, of course. The warmest smiles, nods of encouragement, cheers and whispers, all at once. It was thrilling, to say the least. My gaze searched around, the other hand at the same time, reaching to hold onto Rowan, just a little tighter.

Then, I saw him. He had this vector resistance, that seemed to make all time slow around him. For a moment, I had almost seemed like a fool, with that look on my face. Dazed.

My smile fluttered genuinely. I approached, quiet, as to not take his attention away. Guests were still yet to arrive. My gaze turned once back to Rowan, a supportive look in hers. I sat by him, observant.

'The Hobbit.' The Original One. He had given me that when we first met. What coincidence.

I smiled, glancing away at the drinks starting to be served. I was glad that I could make it in time today. Would've been a shame to be late to something you hosted. And borderline embarrassing too, for the both of us. 'What bride shows up late, no?' I sigh, wandering, countless conversations made and the dinner hadn't really begun yet. I hum a tune, looking around for Rowan. Where did she wander off to...? I walk around, picking up a drink.

'I am hoping she didn't go-' My chain of thought is broken by a bitter sting down my throat as I swallow the drink with clear reluctance, my face forming a not so gentle frown. 'The champagne is...bitter?'

I was panicking inside. The champagne was bitter. Oh, it is a disaster. Someone needed to stop the drinks before they reached. No, no, no.

My haste around is halted when I bump head first into Rowan, the leftover champagne in my hand almost spilling over.

'Ro, Help. The champagne...it's- it's not-'

'Oooh, drink.' She gleams, taking the champagne from me, swallowing it down without a doubt, leaving me utterly perplexed. I watch in horror as she down the glass with a satisfied hum.

'The champagne, what about it...? Ice? You want ice?'

'No~! That's...that's not...it...isn't it bitter?' I whisper yelled, still in shock from the previous little burner.

'Honey, this is Dom Perignon 2010 Magnum. This is anything but bitter. This is something Tony would kill to have in his collection.'

'But it's...'

'It's okay, cher, different folks, different views. Besides, this is better than my past week of staying clean.'

I sigh. At least it wouldn't be a disaster.

_________________________________________

Dinner was served. The atmosphere instantly smelled of fine sizzling barbeque meals and stews. Helpful, Easy glances were exchanged around the table as each one dug in. I exhale, slowly slipping my hand into James'. It brought a sort of ease, really. He was careful, nudging me for seconds when he knew I needed them, getting my locks out of my face when needed. He was very well aware, even while being occupied in very many conversations with the men. My pinky stayed locked with his, of course. It was something we did in public settings. He knew that my anxiety would continue to pin me at most times.

With a serving of the very staple, New York's Beloved Blueberry Cheesecake, and very many toasts made from all near and dears, the dinner, at last, concluded. Excitement in each person's goodbye for what's to come the next morning. The big day. 'How cliche.' I thought to myself, sighing. I held onto James' arm, entwined with care. I glanced up at him. My smile was vibrant, yes. A little sickness in my gut, I pushed the feeling away. My cheek slowly rested onto his shoulder.

'Quite a night.'

______________________________________

[phantom-of-the-501st]

I was actually productive today and made some progress on some uni work.

Is was f***ing exhausting.

Seriously, this year is causing some serious burn out. But I want to address this for a second.

I know this isn't what I usually post but I guess I just wanted to say that it's okay if you're feeling like you're not getting anywhere with stuff atm. Whether it's school, uni, work, hobbies, art, whatever, burn out is real and it sucks. But it's okay. You're not doing anything wrong by taking a step back.

Take a day or two off, do something you enjoy and just spend a little time to yourself.

And then if you feel ready, make a little progress on what you have going on.

And I mean little. You only wrote 5 words? That's still 5 more words than yesterday. You only drew one line? Well that line wasn't there and hour ago so progress!

Deadlines can be stressful and workloads can get too much sometimes but I know you can do it. I have to tell myself this a lot, but any progress is progress. Even just taking 5 minutes every now and then throughout the day tallies up to a decent amount of work.

Break things down. If you're feeling overwhelmed, write down what needs to be done and turn it into smaller tasks. Write "make a to do list" down and tick it off. Then you're already off to a start!

Sorry if this sounds weird or preachy or out of place (like I said, not my usual post) but workloads have been kicking my a** lately and if anything I said helps someone out then I'll take it.

Life is stressful but that's okay. You can do it. Small baby steps are okay. And going backwards is okay too. Just be kind to yourself.

And whatever needs doing, I know you can do it. :)

[moonchild-in-blue]

Hello! I'm sorry if this sounds weird, but, I'm new to the st community here (ran away from twt lol), and I'm wondering if there's any specific blogs that do specific things that I should catch onto? Like, blogs that do lyric analysis, lore chat, art etc?

I've been following you for a while, and I've been trying to interact with blogs that come up a lot, but admittedly I'm a bit lost lmao

Again, sorry if this is a weird ask, and doubly sorry if this is something you've already been asked before!

Hello anon!! Don't worry about the questions, I'm always happy to help, even if I have answered before!

We don't really have "specific blogs" around here as per se. There's @sleepanonymous who's the resident Librarian/Archivist/Knowledge Keeper, and then there are some blogs that do exclusively fanart and fanfiction.

Otherwise we're all a mix of everything. Most of us do a mix of lore theories / analysis / fanart / shitpost. Since the band itself doesn't have an "actual" set lore, you'll find a lot of different takes for the same songs / themes. I think we all have our own takes on the storyline, so it's really nice to read everyone's different opinions. Please feel free to join the conversation!

I have a tag specifically for ST lore on my pinned post, if you want to take a look at that!

@melit0n @undekaying @foundationsofdecay @lovingache @hookedhobbies @fivewholeminutes @thevenomousseprent are some lovely lovely people that do/have done lore / lyric analysis (and myself lol).

@leonsleftbicep @ghxstly-death do frequent headcanons if that's more your speed (and fantastic fanart as well). Not gonna be tagging all the ST artists cus I'd never shut up - everyone is so talented lmao.

Other general ST "heavy" blogs that you should follow (aka the people i interact with the most and can atest to how wonderful they are) - @murderofcrow @a-s-levynn @thejawsoffate @polteergeistt @eepymonstrr @takemetoasgard @sleeby-vessel @vesselsscarlet @tonguetyd @lifemod17 @littlequeenofthemangoes @channelsoph @foxgloveinspace and I know I'm forgetting a lot of blogs oof

If you browse through the main tags, and the lore tags, you'll find a lot more people and content to interact with! I know I'm forgetting a million different lovely individuals lmao, I'M SORRY GUYS. So if you see this, say hi and share your stuff!!

[fuwaprince]

Not sure who needs to hear this but don't ever let shitty parents shame you out of using the health and wellness resources that are available to you and that you need! Fuck parents who medically neglect their children! Don't wait until you're 26 and then try to solve all your health problems on your own. Take care of it while you're younger, if you can! The necessary care isn't something to be denied of. Do it now so that by the time you're 26 preventative issues aren't as terrible