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covid-safer-hotties · 3 months ago

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By Nate Bear

As we approach the five year mark of the first known case of covid-19, as we contemplate a half decade of watching a novel virus rip through our communities, our countries, our world, I wanted to do a retrospective on the pandemic.

A keeping score of sorts.

Let’s start with the top-line.

The first thing to say on this is that no one is very clear about how many people covid has killed.

The official number (got covid, hospital tested, died) is 7 million globally, but this is a number frozen in time since late 2022/early 2023.

How big could it really be?

The Economist built a model to estimate excess covid death which says the pandemic death toll might be close to four times higher than the official count, somewhere around 27 million.

27 million. More than the population of Australia.

The upper boundary of the model sits at more than 36 million dead.

We’ll never know the true death toll, a toll that increases daily, because hospital testing is patchy and varies wildly from country to country.

Some of this is down to the fact that covid spread is rampant in hospitals and healthcare systems want to avoid liability. So they just don’t test.

Where they do still test, such as in Wales, we know that 70% of all people who require hospital treatment for covid got covid in a hospital.

Covid continues to add thousands to the global death toll every week. In the US one thousand people are dying of covid every week.

Who were these dead? Who are these dead?

Many of them were parents of children.

By May 2022 researchers estimated that 10.5 million children globally had seen one or both parents, or a primary caregiver, killed by covid.

In the US more than 245,000 children lost one or both parents to covid, with far too large a number of these after vaccines were available. (The linked Guardian story is about a fully vaccinated 40-year-old dad who died in summer 2021).

How many fully vaccinated people died after believing the propaganda that they were immune to the worst outcomes and could go back to normal?

Yet there is no restitution for the children of the covid dead. No official acknowledgment. No dedicated programmes, financial or otherwise.

Pandemics, and the questions they ask, often seem just too big for our societies to grapple with.

Perhaps this is because pandemics deliver particularly intimate and unpredictable devastation.

When every single person on the planet becomes a potential vector for a new disease, they unavoidably disrupt the entire fabric of our societies.

It just can’t be any other way.

In the novelty, in the unknown, is where one half of the fear lurks.

What will the virus do to me?

In the unpredictability of sickness lies the other half.

Who will make me sick?

Will it be my child, a friend or a colleague?

Where and when will this happen?

Will it be when I’m having fun? Or will I get sick in the course of mundane events, doing my shopping or visiting the bank?

Will you die, be made chronically ill or not even notice you have the virus?

In that not noticing, in the asymptomatic course, will I inadvertently kill or disable someone?

How can I keep this all in my head wile also having to pay bills, and put food on the table?

No wonder people don’t want to think about it.

Can you honestly blame them?

Some of us are wired, fortunately or unfortunately, to stare at these realities and unpack these questions.

Fortunately or unfortunately. I’ve often wondered which it is.

One of the eeriest flashbacks for me is how early in the pandemic the media was full of articles about how the 1918 flu had been banished from historical memory, only for our societies to go on and do exactly the same.

By the summer of 2021, against all the evidence to the contrary, most people were convinced covid was over. July 19th 2021 was dubbed ‘freedom day’ in Britain with all protections dropped, and while some countries required masks in hospitals and healthcare through that winter, by 2022 even these were jettisoned and covid was, for most people, definitely over.

It was so over that a brutal June/July 2022 wave in Europe was put down, by experts, to heatwaves, despite the fact that a few clicks could have told you what was driving large excess death that summer. For example Spain, where excess summer death was said to be entirely caused by the heat, had its largest ever summer covid wave, exceeding 2021. But the experts just looked at large excess death, said ‘well it has been hot,’ and called it. A frightening covid blind spot.

Some people have since gone on to believe, a belief seeded and nurtured by right-wing libertarian propaganda, there was never anything to particularly worry about in the first place.

Some of the pushers of this line, such as the people behind the so-called Great Barrington Declaration which argued for herd immunity via mass infection pre vaccines, are going to have prominent roles in the new Trump administration.

An administration that was helped into power by the refusal of Biden and the Democrats to use the generational opportunity covid provided to permanently restructure social programmes. By their refusal to articulate the impact of the pandemic and the measures it necessitated in social, communitarian terms.

And now, as the anniversary of the Wuhan index case approaches, the man who was president when covid struck, the man defeated in large part because of his covid failure, will be inaugurated as president again just a few weeks after this five-year marker.

Hard to grapple with.

What else do we forget about the pandemic? We forget how mesmerised we were as nature rebounded, how clean the air was in the absence of industrial scale human activity. We forget that carbon emissions fell at the sort of pace required to avoid cataclysmic climate change. We forget that no-strings cash payments saw child poverty in America plunge to record lows, that the UK slashed homelessness with schemes that found homes for people sleeping on the street.

We forget that there really was a sense of global solidarity, that the reflection demanded by a pandemic opened up spaces for us to consider truly radical and permanent change. Remember build back better? There really was a sense that the coronavirus, as we all knew it then, could be the catalyst for a better word.

It couldn’t last because of capitalism. This isn’t some glib statement, it is literally why such promises could never be fulfilled. Because such promises required redistribution and structural shifts to economies that billionaires don’t want shifting.

So where are we now with covid?

Acute stage deaths are, of course, after vaccines and infections, still far too high but a long way off the early peaks. That phase is over and a new phase has started: the long tail of chronic illness. Population health will now be degraded for decades as chronic illness and immune system dysregulation triggered by repeat Sars-Cov-2 infections pressures health systems, social systems and economies.

In the US it is estimated than one in four people have some form of long covid. In both the US and UK, applications for long-term disability payments have soared to record levels since 2020, an increase so clearly and obviously connected to covid infections. Yet in our media, political and social discourse the increase is usually blamed on everything other than the virus.

The motivated reasoning (if covid was causing this that would be bad) and denial (so therefore covid can’t be causing this) is absolutely astounding.

And while there is good reason for a focus on the long-term sick, even transient sickness, the fabled ‘just a flu/cough' that more people are getting more often, takes an individual and collective toll. And even when the sickness appears transient, when you have cleared the classic virus symptoms, covid can be taking an insidious toll on our health by harming immune systems.

Covid has long been known to hit the immune system by killing off cells which are key to our immunity. These cells, known as CD4 and CD8 cells, are lines of defence against invading pathogens. As they get to work fighting covid, they are also depleted by the virus. They can eventually recover, but the process can take years. Everyone is different, some are genetically lucky, but as a rule of thumb if you are constantly exposed to covid your body is unlikely to have enough time to rebuild strong immune function.

What would we see if immune systems were being degraded at a population level? We would see the rise of opportunistic infections such as walking pneumonia, whooping cough and an increase in other viral infections. And this is exactly what we are seeing.

Whooping cough in England has gone stratospheric, just a massive increase over any other year in recent memory, with more cases in a week in 2024 than were seen in whole years previously. The same thing is happening in Australia and in North America.

Mycoplasma pneumonia, also known as walking pneumonia, caused by a bacteria, is also skyrocketing everywhere, from the US to England and Wales.

A recent study found people who’ve had covid had significantly higher rates of bacterial infections. In Sweden, the land of let it rip covid, the picture is not pretty, with all sorts of infections at record incidence.

And now bird flu stalks this immune dysregulated landscape.

With more cases popping up over the US every day, and the virus seemingly mutating to more easily infect humans, fears of another pandemic are entirely legitimate. If the virus does find the mutations to go pandemic, all bets are off. Covid broke everyone's brains, physically and metaphysically. We really don't want to know what a second pandemic in a decade will do. But with US agencies captured by big agriculture and no appetite for the sorts of measures needed to stop the spread, a flu pandemic now appears the most likely outcome.

If it happens, economic collapse is probable.

The global solidarity which characterised the first few months of covid would be nowhere to be seen. A Trump administration would go for immunity via infection, which, with a virus likely to have a significantly higher case fatality rate than covid, would cause social and economic chaos. (If there is any crumb of comfort it’s that the virus will need to cede virulence for effective human to human transmission so the fatality rate will not be the much quoted 40-50ish percent).

With masks stigmatised, people will walk defiantly into a viral buzzsaw and call it freedom.

The only chance of a half-decent response to the next pandemic is if we can keep the historical memory of covid alive.

If we can remember the devastating toll it took, but also remember the sense of solidarity and the genuine material improvements that were sparked, albeit temporarily, by a collective global crisis.

If we can remember that we live in a society.

If we can remember that, as bad as things get, every crisis is still an opportunity.

#mask up #public health #wear a mask #pandemic #covid #wear a respirator #covid 19 #still coviding #coronavirus #sars cov 2

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menandunderwear · 11 months ago

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she-wolf09231982 · 1 year ago

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Chapter 1-Dynamite

Summary: Growing up in Chicago, Kate hasn’t seen much outside the city limits, except maybe Wisconsin or Indiana. After the Pearl Harbor attacks, WWII was announced across the country. Not long after she found herself with her brothers resisting temptations after they stumble upon two military recruiters encouraging them to join the Army or Marines to make a difference.

A/N: Character Intro, Mature audience, BillHoosierSmithx!FemMedic, WW2, OCIntroduction/Kate Danaher, Female Pronouns, Cursing/Swearing, Derogatory Slurs, Womanizing Comments, Military and Medical Terminology, Inappropriate Nicknames, HBO The Pacific References, Mentions of Weaponry, Smoking.

Story takes begins Episode 1/Chapters 1-4 Guadalcanal/Leckie

*These stories may not fall entirely in accordance with the TV series timeline. I do not know the real Marines the actors portray in this series, so please understand I show no disrespect. Some or most of historical events and character interactions in my fanfics are fabricated purely for the sake of the enjoyment of fiction*

~~~~~~~

December 7th, 1941

Chicago, IL

“Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, I am speaking to you tonight at a very serious moment in our history. The Cabinet is convening and the leaders in Congress are meeting with the President-”

Kate listens intensely to the radio one evening with her family in the parlor.

“-In fact, the Japanese ambassador was talking to the president at the very time that Japan's airships were bombing our citizens in Hawaii and the Philippines and sinking one of our transports loaded with lumber on its way to Hawaii.”

Kate's mother obviously in shock sitting next to her father on the loveseat, reached for his hand as her other hand slowly rests over her mouth.

“In the meantime, we the people are already prepared for action....Preparation to meet an enemy no matter where he struck. That is all over now and there is no more uncertainty. We know what we have to face and we know that we are ready to face it.”

When the announcement ended and the regular scheduled program continued, her father walked over to the radio and turned the volume dial down. Kate, her two brothers and mother waited for him to speak.

“Well, all we can do is wait.” he said with finality.

The following day, newspapers all over the U.S. had “WAR DECLARED!!” across every headline.

So, this was it. World War II has begun.

~~~~~~~

Kate and her two older brothers, Peter and Tommy, walk through Sears, Roebuck & Co retail store trying to find Christmas gift ideas for their mother.

“I heard they’re sending guys all over! Britian, Australia, Philippine's, Italy, Germany-” Tommy said excitedly.

“Yeah, that’s what I heard, too.” Peter confirmed.

Her brothers walking ahead gossiped about war details between them, not bothering to even look around for a gift.

Kate huffed irritably, “Why did you guys even come with me if you’re not going to help me find something for mom?”

They looked back and chuckled, “Ah come on, Ace, ma will love anything we get her.” Pete dissolved with a wave of his hand.

Kate rolled her eyes then continued to search for something worthwhile.

As her eyes scan the decorated windows of each shop, two uniformed men were standing in a storefront entrance each next to a military recruiting poster. One bearing “I WANT YOU FOR THE US ARMY” and another “WANT ACTION? JOIN THE U.S. MARINE CORPS!”

“Hey, get a load of this!” Pete nudged Tommy when he saw the two posters.

The uniformed men saw that her brothers’ interests were peaked.

“What do you think, gents, wanna do your part for your country?” The Marine asked.

Pete and Tommy shot eager glances at each other while walking closer to the two men.

“Your country needs you, boys, we’re always looking for good, strong men.” The soldier added.

“See the world and get paid for it!”

“-an extra $50 if you join the 101st Airborne!”

Kate's brothers’ eyes lit up, so she decided to intervene.

“Excuse me, gentlemen, I think these two-” she began.

Each recruiter redirected their attention to her as she approached.

“Ma’am, we’re looking for abled women as well.” the soldier interrupted.

All of Kate's thoughts dissipated at this statement, stopping her dead in her tracks.

“Ever thought about becoming a nurse?” the Marine asked.

“That’s actually what she’s always wanted to do!” Tommy verified for you.

“Shut up, Tommy!” she snapped.

“Well then-” the soldier began, “-sounds to me we have three new U.S. Army recruits!”

“More like three Marine Corps recruits.” the Marine countered with a sly grin.

~~~~~~~

Kate convinced her brothers to revisit the idea later when more was known about where the war was heading. It’s only been a week since the start of the war was announced, and they were already jumping into the snake pit feet first without looking.

But she had internally thought about it herself. Was it really such a hasty idea? The military would pay for all her training to become a nurse. And it’s not like she’d be on the front lines, right? So, she’d be safe.

Kate wasn’t sure who she would be trying to sell the idea to more: herself or her parents. They’d be more against the idea of her joining than Pete and Tommy. The more she considered it, the more she was inclined to join. But which branch?

Tommy and Pete were already dead set on becoming paratroopers for the Army. The idea of $50 more per check was more than enough to motivate them.

Kate discussed the idea with her best friend, Blanche.

“I mean, financially it makes sense.” Blanche agreed.

“They’d pay for me to become a nurse AND pay me while I go. Other than being away from my family, I can’t see why I shouldn’t do it.” Kate reasoned.

“Well, you would be without your best friend.” Blanche eluded.

Kate laughed, “That’s right.” she agreed with a slight look of disappointment.

“You know what, I’ll do it with you!”

A look of surprise appeared across Kate's face.

“Do what?” she queried.

“I’ll join with you and we’ll both become nurses in the military.”

She studied her best friend, “Really? You'd join because I’m going to?”

“Of course! We made a pact, remember?” Blanche reminded.

They each had promised eachother as children they’d always stick together and be best friends forever.

Kate smiled, “Ok! But let’s wait til after the holidays to go see a recruiter. I don’t want to ruin my parents’ Christmas and New Years.”

“Good call.” Blanche concurred.

~~~~~~~

The holidays came and went, and before Kate knew it, her, her brothers, and Blanche had enlisted as service members of the U.S. military. Tommy and Pete signed up as paratroopers for the Army, while Kate and Blanche decided on the U.S. Marine Corps. Needless to say, this news didn’t go over well with any of the parents. Especially for Kate and Blanche being women.

Kate and her brothers sat at the kitchen table across from their mother, Elaine, who was weeping, while their father, Mortimer, paced behind her.

“So,” Mortimer began, “-all three of you signed your lives away.”

They all remained silent with only the muffled bawls of their mother filling the room.

“You see what you’re doing to your mother!?” their father scolded, gesturing towards his wife.

“Pops, we just-” Pete began.

“Do you understand what you just did? The government owns you now. You’re just a number to them. They don’t care if you live or die over there. Who know what will happen to you!” their dad continued as he ran his hand through his disheveled hair.

Tommy, Pete, and Kate looked towards the floor with the weight of guilt weighing upon their backs.

Their mother finally straightened up and composed herself.

“Mortimer, what’s done is done. Shaming the children won’t do any good. Only thing we can do is support them now.” she defended.

Their children exchanged confused glances. Their father turned to her with a look of shock painted across his face.

“Elaine?” he questioned.

“Mortimer, they’re grown enough to make their own decisions. The least we can do is be there for them every step of the way.” she responded.

Their mother looked each of them over with a weak yet genuine smile.

“You will all be outstanding. I am proud of you all.” she added.

~~~~~~~

August 7th, 1942

After Kate and Blanche completed basic training, they surprisingly found themselves aboard a battle cruiser heading for Guadalcanal with well over 1,000 some male Marines. The Corps decided to assign two medics to each platoon, regardless of gender. When they ran out of men to assign, they resorted to placing females.

Kate was just thankful to be paired with Blanche, so she wasn't alone with all these unfamiliar faces. She wasn't one to enjoy too much attention in big crowds. Blanche, however, relished the spotlight. Especially when most of the attention were from men.

“Just look at them! So many handsome ones.” Blanche whispered as she nudged Kate.

“Mmhm.” Kate hummed unamused, looking around the mess hall below the main deck of the ship.

The kitchen prepared a special meal for the Marines today, so the men were buzzing, quite eager to eat something tasty for once. Kate and Blanche (being the only women within hundreds of miles) were usually allowed to get their meals beforehand to avoid unnecessary interactions with the males. Usually, they were able to finish their meals and leave before the guys would get there, but today seats filled up rather quickly upon hearing about the exclusive meal that was prepared.

The only encounters they usually had with the men were when they visited the aid station in one's and two's within the ship to receive medical attention as needed. So, to see them all at once in the chow hall was very overwhelming...specifically for Kate since most of them watched her and Blanche’s every move.

They were pushing through the crowd, trying to get back to their sleeping quarters when a Marine accidentally bumped into Kate with his arms cradling a bunch of oranges, causing him to drop a few.

“Oh! I’m sorry ma’am!” the boyish blonde Marine offered.

Kate crouched down and picked up the two oranges that fell to the ground.

“It’s ok, Private, no harm done.” she assured trying to place the two oranges strategically back on the pile in his arms.

“Oh no, please take them. A gift for two pretty ladies.” he added winking at Blanche.

“Why thank you, Private..?” Blanche began waiting for him to introduce himself.

“-Phillips. But call me Sid.” he insisted.

Blanche and Sid shared a brief moment of staring until it became too painful for Kate.

“Thank you again, Private Phillips. Try not to drop anymore, it would be a shame to waste those.” Kate said as she pulled Blanche in the opposite direction.

“See you around, Sid!” Blanche called out as she waved at him.

Sid made it to his table with the rest of the fruit unscathed.

“Dessert!” he announced to the guys seated as he distributed the oranges onto the table in front of them, “Make sure you save one of those for me!” he added.

“I just wanna get off this goddam rust bucket, I can’t hear myself think!” PFC Wilbur Runner complained.

“Yeah, at least they give you a good meal before your send-off" PFC Lew Chuckler justified.

“Yeah, like the electric chair.” PFC Bill ‘Hoosier’ Smith interjected sarcastically before continuing, “But you, Runner,” placing a hand on the seated man’s shoulder, “-you have won a trip to a tropical paradise called Guadal-Kenel...Guada...ken...I still can’t pronounce it.” He dismissed with a laugh.

The table laughed collectively.

“Hey Sid, who was that doll you were chattin’ up?” Chuckler asked.

“Her name is Blanche.” Sid replied.

“Weren’t there two of ‘em?” Runner questioned.

“Yeah, but I didn’t get the other one’s name. She was a looker, too. She didn’t seem interested, though.” Sid proclaimed.

“Maybe you ain’t her type, Phillips.” Hoosier teased.

“Oh yeah, and you think you are?” Sid shot back with a snicker.

“Guess we’ll see, won’t we?” Hoosier returned with a confident smile.

“Not if I get to her first!” Chuckler chimed in.

“Ok, you’re on.” Hoosier said shaking Chuckler’s hand officiating the bet.

~~~~~~~

Kate sat on her bunk trying to concentrate on reading her anatomy and physiology research journal while Blanche drummed on and on about Sid Phillips.

“Blanche, please. That was an hour ago.” Kate resounded.

Blanche rolled her eyes at her, “You’re such a book bug!”

“Excuse me?” Kate chuckled back at her.

“We’re surrounded by strapping handsome Marines and you got your nose stuck in that book.” Blanche teased as she snatched Kate's book from her hands.

“Blanche! Be careful with that! It’s old-”

“Please, quit being sucha crumb. You’re always reading or studying.”

“Well, my brothers don’t call me ‘Ace’ for nothin’.” Kate explained.

“Just live a little, ok!? Look beyond the hard covers and enjoy the boys.” Blanche insisted.

“I’d say you’re a little slack happy, Blanche. I’m here to make sure these boys make it through the war alive. Not to find a boyfriend.” Kate clarified.

Blanche laughed, “Well, some things are out of your control. Because let me tell you something, you may not have been noticing all the hot bodies on this ship, but they absolutely been noticing you.”

Kate flashed her a bored and surly glance then snapped the book back from Blanche's hands.

“I’m not the least bit interested.” Kate finalized, flipping back to the page she was previously on.

“Not yet,” Blanche purred, “but you will.”

Kate ignored her comment and continue reading.

~~~~~~~

“Wrap it up now! Get your gear! Everybody topside for the pre-landing briefing! Let’s move!”

Kate heard the officers calling out in the slim hallways of the ship.

Kate and Blanche began collecting their medical supplies and duffels.

“Don’t forget your brassard.” Kate reminded her best friend as she pinned her own white armband donning the red cross to her left arm of her own uniform.

Soon, they stood on the deck with the rest of the Marines as an officer projected his voice as far as he can to brief everyone.

“Forget all the horseshit you’ve heard about the Japs. They had their turn, now it’s our turn!”

Kate and Blanche side eye each other with wide eyes.

He proceeded, “They may have started this war, but I promise you, we will finish it!”

“YES SIR.” The men responded outloud in unison.

“Hit the beach. Keep moving to your rendevous and primary objectives. When you see the enemy, kill ‘em all!” he ended.

“YEAH!” the men collectively roared together.

“Go! Let’s go get ‘em!”

All the men started to stir, each either tightening their helmet straps or adjusting their web belts.

Kate looked to Blanche to ask her if she has everything but discovered she had wandered off somewhere leaving her alone. Kate tried to look over the swarm of Marines then saw her talking to Sid. Kate shook her head and started to push through the crowd to get to her.

It was like swimming against a current walking through the sea of men.

“Excuse me.” Kate called out to no avail.

She suddenly felt a shoulder deliberately check her, knocking the strap of her duffel off her own shoulder.

“Hey, asshole, watch it!” Kate snapped.

A rather tall and broad Marine turned around staring her down.

“What the fuck did you just say to me?” he dared.

“I said watch it.” She repeated emphasizing the last two words without flinching.

He started to approach her as a devilish grin started to stretch across his face.

“I like ‘em feisty.” he whispered inches from Kate's face.

She stood her ground, not giving him the satisfaction he can intimidate her.

“You’re not getting anyone with that breath.” she replied with a grimace.

The large man fisted the front of her uniform practically lifting her off the ground.

“Hey, Bennetti! That’s enough!” a voice barked out from the crowd.

He doesn’t let Kate go but does allow her feet to touch the ground again. She looked to the side and saw another Marine pushing past the others with a few members of his squad close behind him.

“What’s it to you, Hoosier?” Bennetti retaliated.

“Well, that there is our medic, so get your meat hooks off her. Do you not know how to treat a lady?” Hoosier asked smoothly.

“I can think of a few ways to treat her.” Bennetti stated winking at Kate. She strained to get out of his grip as anger started to boil over from within her.

“Let her go. Now.” Hoosier warned as Chuckler, Runner, Sid, and Private Bob Leckie line up ready to square off in case Bennetti decided not to comply.

Bennetti sized up his competition, then let her blouse top go with a bit of a shove, slightly projecting her into opposite direction. With her chest heaving, Kate spat at Bennetti’s boots, then turned on her heel to walk away.

Hoosier and the rest of the boys “oooo-ed” then laughed impressed by her gumption.

“She is feisty, isn’t she?” Leckie acknowledged.

“Yeah, like a firecracker.” Chuckler added.

“More like a stick of dynamite...I think I’m in love.” Hoosier confessed while his eyes were glued on Kate disappearing into the mass of men.

~~~~~~~

Kate and Blanche boarded a Higgins boat with H Company. Almost forty people were packed like sardines in the floating metal box, not allowing for much personal space. Blanche conveniently sat herself next to Sid for the ride to the island, once again leaving you to fend for yourself. Fortunately, Kate found herself in better company next to the Marine that defended her earlier from the brute, Bennetti.

She side-eyed him awkwardly, knowing she hadn’t properly thanked him for helping her yet. Hoosier sensed her apprehension to speak first so he took initiative.

“You alright?” Hoosier asked.

Kate's breath caught in her throat before she spoke, “Oh, uh, yes. I’m fine.”

He smiled, “That’s good.”

She looked down at her boots, swallowing hard before she spoke again, “Thank you. You know, for before.” she muttered.

Hoosier’s smile increased, “Don’t mention it.” he replied admiring her shyness.

Another moment of silence passed.

“I’m Bill Smith. But my friends call me Hoosier.” he said extending his right hand.

Kate coyly smiled at him then grab his hand to shake, “Mary Kate Danaher. Call me Kate.”

Hoosier raised his eyebrows, “Irish?”

“How did you know?” she asked mockingly.

He chuckled, “Just a hunch, I guess.”

They remained quiet for the rest of the journey to shore while explosions tore through the air, as hundreds of C47’s soared over them in flocks. The water was choppy and rough, causing a lot of the men seasickness and lose the meals they had just eaten. Kate wished she could help them, but they could only just push through until they all reached land.

She began to hear indistinct shouting.

“Standby!” The driver shouted.

“Hoof it up to the beach! Spread out! GO! GO! GO!”

The hatch of the boat drops and Marines hit the beach running forward each yelling profanities as they find themselves knee deep in water trudging to get through the sandbar. Many suddenly slow down to take in the scene before them.

“What took you so long?” a random Marine called from the beach, leaning against a palm tree relaxing in front of what can only be described as a campfire.

“Welcome to Guadalcanal.” another added sarcastically seeing the confused looks on the new arrival’s faces.

Leckie, Chuckler, Hoosier, Sid, and Runner collectively laugh, amused by the laid-back atmosphere that they weren’t expecting to experience.

~~~~~~~

Kate sat close to where H Company settled on the beach. Blanche checked in with her before rejoining Sid on a makeshift bench made from beached driftwood. Kate decided to make use of this time by reorganizing her medical supplies.

Kate was startled when she heard Chuckler repeatedly beating a coconut against a stone. She laughed to herself imagining him as a caveman. As he successfully breaks through the shell of the coconut, he becomes disgruntled to find there’s another solid layer.

He shows Leckie, “Hey, now what do I do?” he asked.

“I think the islanders us a machete or a rock.” Leckie responded with a smile.

“Try using your head, Chuckler, it’s big and rocklike.” Runner added.

Chuckler grabbed his machete.

“If you do get that open, you might not want to drink too much of the juice right away.” Kate advised Chuckler.

He looked over at her and smirked, “Oh yeah? Why's that?” he asked flirtatiously.

“Coconut water has mild laxative effects if you consume too much at once.” she clarified.

Chuckler tilted his head eyebrows drawn together confused.

“You’ll get the shits if you drink too much of the stuff inside.” Leckie simplified.

“Ah ok...” Chuckler comprehended while looking disappointedly at the fruit on his lap.

“But the coconut meat is very good for you, so you can eat that.” Kate expanded to cheer him up.

Chuckler smiled at her, “When I get in this son of a bitch, I’ll bring you some.” he offered with a wink.

She only smiled and return to packing her supplies.

Leckie walked over to Kate, “Yeah, you kinda have to dumb it down for him. He’s a great guy. Great Marine, just not that bright when it comes to big words.”

She looked at Leckie and snickered.

“Bob Leckie.” he offered his right hand.

“Kate Danaher.” she took his hand firmly.

“Strong Irish name! Good to meet you. So, you’re assigned to H Company?”

“I am. And I already have a good feeling about it.” she stated.

“Yeah? How’s that?”

“Well, you all came to my rescue when that bum had me dangling a foot from the ground. You guys didn’t even know me, and you stood up for me anyway. Speaks volumes about you guys.” she illustrated.

“Oh, we knew you long before that happened.” Leckie confessed.

Kate looked at him befuddled.

“Yeah! You and your friend, um, Blanche, is it? Yeah, you two have had these guys’ heads spinning since you boarded that carrier to get here. Of course, we all had to asked around about you.” he explained with a dismissive shrug.

Kate's eyes widened, “Weren’t there more important things to worry about?” she questioned.

“Uh, like?” Leckie returned.

“Oh, I don’t know. Battle plans perhaps? Maps of the beach and the rest of the areas we’re about to trek through?” she listed.

“I don’t know about the rest of these guys, but I write more than I read. Would’ve brought my typewriter if I could.”

“Leckie, you’re going to bore her to death.” Hoosier teased sitting on a fallen palm tree right next to Kate.

She beamed at Bill.

“Well, Bob Leckie, since I love to read, and you love to write, perhaps we can exchange some literature sometime. I’m always looking for new material to read.”

Leckie looked at Hoosier with a cocky, triumphant smile.

“Absolutely, Kate Danaher.” Leckie replied with a slight bow.

She nodded and occupied herself with the project at hand.

Leckie raised his eyebrows at Hoosier.

Bill presented Leckie his middle finger then waved him away mouthing, “Get lost.”

Leckie trotted off laughing to himself.

“So, what do you like to read?” Hoosier started.

“Mostly medical journals. Medicinal studies, anatomy and physiology, physician dissertations-” Kate glanced at Hoosier noticing his furrowed eyebrows, “-um, sorry, I’m what Blanche refers to as a ‘book bug.’”

She winced looking down at her medic satchel embarrassed.

Hoosier chuckled as he scooted closer to her, “No need to be sorry. Only thing I read is the newspaper or Dick Tracy comics. Not exactly a disser-uh-dissrat-”

“Dissertations.” Kate corrected him with a nervous giggle.

He laughed, “Yeah, that.” He started to rub the back of his neck.

Chuckler abruptly walked over to Kate handing her a half-gutted coconut filled with sliced coconut meat.

“As promised, doll.”

“Oh my, thanks Chuckler.” she praised as she accepted the coconut.

“Anything for you. And call me Lew.” he implored with a proud grin.

Hoosier rolled his eyes at Chuckler’s intrusion and sickening attempt to seduce her. The moment was short lived as the meek voice of Pharmacist’s Mate Third Class Lewis chimed in.

“Hey, for what it’s worth, Col Dobson said the Japs might’ve poisoned the coconuts.” he announced nervously.

The group looked at him perplexed.

“They poisoned…a billion coconuts?” Runner asked him.

Lewis shrugged his shoulders, taking a second to think about how silly that sounded until he heard a man cry out in pain behind him.

“Excuse me!” Lewis pardoned himself from the conversation to run towards the injured man.

The group exchanged amused glances, enjoying a good laugh together.

Lieutenant Corrigan appeared, stomping through the camp.

“Intelligence has it the Japs moved back into the jungle. Clean the sand out of your weapons. We move in three minutes. Let’s go find some Japs.” he bellowed.

Hoosier stood up and walked past Kate to where his gear was.

“See you around, Bill.” she called after him.

Hoosier met Kate's gaze with a gleam of excitement behind his own.

“You bet you will.” he called back.

She smiled then redirect her attention to packing up.

Blanche came skipping over.

“See?? I told you!”

“Ugh! Told me what, Blanche?”

“You got yourself a beau!” she tittered poking Kate's ribs.

“Unlikely. I was just gettin’ to know the guys we’ll be taking care of, that’s it.”

“I saw how you looked at him. You can’t fool me.”

“Can we focus on getting our gear and supplies together before the LT snaps his cap?” Kate warned.

“Sure thing, Ace.” Blanche squeaked as she walked off.

Kate shook her head, “She’s going to kill me.” she huffed to herself.

~~~~~~~

#the pacific #hbo war #bill hoosier smith #Hoosier #jacob pitts #bob leckie #chuckler juergens #sid phillips #wilbur runner conley #james badge dale #josh helman #ashton holmes #keith nobbs #ww2 #us marines

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simplyclary · 1 year ago

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I Loved How Good You Looked: A TZP 2023 Fashion Wrap-Up (Part 1)

(Edit by yours truly)

In the world of fashion, every outfit tells a story, and 2023 has certainly been a memorable year for rising Hollywood star Taylor Zakhar Perez.

From his lead role in Amazon Prime's hit movie "Red, White and Royal Blue" to his unforgettable fits throughout the year, Taylor shows no signs of slowing down in both the acting world and the fashion world.

As 2023 comes to a close, it's time to take a glamorous stroll down the Taylor Zakhar Perez fashion memory lane! I'll unravel the variety of trends that graced the catwalks, adorned the red carpets, and became street-style staples.

This TZP fashion wrap-up promises a dazzling lineup of looks that defined the essence of elegance and daring creativity that made 2023 unforgettable, especially for Taylor and his ever growing fanbase.

Join me as I unwrap the fashion moments that left fans breathless, inspired, and utterly in love with the one and only Taylor Zakhar Perez.

So get comfortable, grab a drink and some snacks and let the fashion show begin..

Vanity Fair London- February 2023

Ahhh, look at how dashing he is in that black suit? Already slaying and it's only February!

Anyway, Taylor in this black ensemble is nothing but perfection. Also, the way that his hair was styled up and his clean-shaven look adds a bit of a pristine vibe to the overall look.

Give me Taylor in a black suit any day and you would just catch me swooning over it for the rest of the day.

Cyclops x Moncler Genius Show- February 2023

This is the lighter contrast to that of his look during Vanity Fair London, because instead of donning an all-black outfit, Taylor opted for more lighter colors like white, light blue and a dark(ish) aqua green shade.

For this event, he opted for a t-shirt with the name of the brand on it under a plaid flannel like shirt and dark aqua green pants that also has the brand's name on it.

The one thing that I didn't really like is the shades that he wore. It's too big for me and I would've preferred that he went without the shades. However, if he was going for an outer-space alien vibe with this look, I think he nailed it because those shades definitely looked like the eyes of an alien that's coming to invade or seek peace on Earth.

Versace Cruise 2024 Show- March 2023

This is one of Taylor's look that live rent-free in the minds of fans. I mean, how can it not? He looks so handsome.

This mesh tank top with leather pants is a combination that I never thought would work but it actually could, on Taylor at least. I love how his bits of jewelry added a bit of sparkle to the overall darkness of the outfit, similar to stars in the night sky.

I need Taylor to rock more outfits like this come 2024, because this look definitely had fans wanting more.

Green Carpet Fashion Awards-March 2023

I swear to the angels, this look is giving me real Rhysand vibes, and I'm not mad about that.

Just another all-black Taylor outfit for the year (trust me, I know you know this ain't the last all-black outfit he wore), and dang, he looks absolutely handsome. With the clean-shaven look and his hair that styled up, this is a vision of a Night Court prince right here.

Yep, I'm just here throwing out my fantasies, but it is what it is.

Woolmark Trip to Australia-March 2023

One of his memorable supply chain trips that he took to further understand the fabrics that go into the very clothes that people wear.

For the first photo, it was a good choice that he wore a sweater to Australia because he went there during the fall season in the country (which runs from March to May). It's also a good pop of color and compliments really well with the green of the grass (and the white of the sheep).

As for the second photo (which was taken when he was in one of the shops looking at fabrics), he wore a plain whitish-grey shirt underneath a navy blue blazer. It exudes simplicity with a dash of elegance. I also love how it was during this time that he made a custom-wool suit for himself.

I love a man who cares about the environment. Men like him are a rare breed nowadays.

BMW x Coachella- April 2023

Be honest with yourselves, when you look at this picture, what did you look at first? The scenery? The car? Or Taylor? It would be the third option, obviously.

This was a collaboration of BMW with the summer music festival Coachella and to have Taylor as a model for it is perfect because it's like mixing together adventure (with the car) and music & fun (I mean, that's one of the reasons people go to Coachella, right?), which sums up Taylor's personality in a way (adventurous and fun-loving).

For this, Taylor wore a summer look, with a white tank top underneath a black jacket with black shorts and green rubber shoes. I love how the green adds a touch of color to his overall neutral outfit. It's a simple combination but he makes it look like a masterpiece, if I'm being honest.

Ralph Lauren Event- April 2023

Taylor, why are you wearing gray? What do you have against color (Kidding..)

To be clear, I have nothing against the color gray. It's just not my first pick for a color. It comes off as dull and boring for me, but that's just my humble opinion.

For this event, Taylor wore a grey and white ensemble, with a gray shirt paired with a gray blazer and white pants. The overall look may lack color, but do admit that Taylor looks good in it (he looks good in whatever color he wears, to be completely honest).

International Woolmark Prize (IWP) Event- May 2023

Knowing Taylor, he would not pass up on an opportunity to advocate about fashion sustainability while still being fashionable himself, which I honestly love.

During this event with The Woolmark Company, he wore a navy blue ensemble, which is composed of a white tank top and a striped navy blue button-down that is layered by a navy blue coat. He completed his look with black loafers and a pair of necklaces, which add a little shine to his outfit. Again, a simple combination but on him, it looks like a masterpiece.

Take it from Taylor, folks. This is how you advocate for a good cause while also looking good yourself.

Prada (Spring/Summer 2024 Menswear Show)- June 2023

*This is also an excuse for me to post Taylor's unforgettable shirtless entrance photo*

The iconic Prada SS24 Show!! Taylor's fashion week debut (he said so himself during the "Get Ready With Me" video). He really said "this is my first fashion week so I gotta make it memorable". And it was memorable indeed, maybe more for the fans, but regardless, it was an iconic event.

Taylor's photos from this event was one of the first photos that I ever saw of him the moment I became a fan, and it will be one of those events that will forever live rent-free in my mind. I mean, how could I not? Look at the stunning assembly of looks he pulled off for the show. From stepping out of the car shirtless to wearing a white Prada tank top at the end of the day, he surely made the 2023 summer even hotter.

I also love how he made it a designer summer. Prada is a designer brand and then he combined it with some summer essentials like a white tank top and sunglasses. Personally, I love that theme.

Maybe Taylor will be able to beat this on 2024, if he gets invited to the Prada event again (I have faith that he will be).

Givenchy Event- June 2023

It's one fashion show after another, I take it. After Prada (or before, I'm not sure), it's Givenchy.

I got to be honest, this all-black jumpsuit outfit is not my favorite, but I'll make an exception because it's black which is one of my most favorite colors on Taylor. What I love about this is that he made the jumpsuit ensemble not too plain-looking by adding silver jewelry and sunglasses.

This is more of a practical look but hey, something that's both fashionable and functional is what people really look for nowadays.

Tag Heuer Event- July 2023

Let's be honest, it's not Taylor if there was no picture where he does the peace sign.

In this particular photo, I love how his outfit was the dark contrast to the light colors of his background and even to the very couch he's sitting on. His dark outfit is something I can see a warrior in a fairytale wear and I'm not one to complain about that.

This ensemble is something people can wear in the summertime, consider the varying degrees of heat that the summer season brings in every country during the summer months.

Miu Miu Event- July 2023

I would like to point out that this look is very similar to the one Taylor wore to the Tag Heuer event, only with a different brand, but I'll look past that, I guess.

With this look, it still has the summer vibes. I can see people wearing this type of outfit during the summer time where people often opt for sleeveless clothes.

Maybe pair this outfit with your favorite pair of sunglasses, get on a boat and go sailing off into the ocean with the sea breeze in your face and you'll have an unforgettable summer.

Red, White and Royal Blue Billboard Sighting and NYC Street Style- August 2023

Ahhh August, the month where Taylor was catapulted into even more fame (and also the month that I knew of him).

August was the month of the premiere of "Red, White and Royal Blue" where Taylor played his first lead role as Alex Claremont-Diaz. It also premiered in the middle of the 118-day SAG-AFTRA strike, so sadly, there was no red carpet event for the movie but Taylor had to show off his style one way or another.

In the first two photos, it's just Taylor casually walking in the streets but he still looks so good. In the first photo, he wore a blue-black ensemble (two of my favorite colors on him) and the second photo was a contrast to the somehow dark ensemble of the first photo because it shows him wearing a much lighter outfit, which includes a cream vest and green track pants with sneakers.

The third photo is special because it was when Taylor was in New York (Times Square to be exact) with his parents and they went to see the billboard that had the poster of RWRB on it. His outfit is a wool (or cotton) shirt with a mix of orange, brown, black and white colors paired with dark jeans. It was a more casual outfit as compared to the magnitude of what he saw on Times Square that night.

Aperol Spritz Event- August 2023

I suddenly want to have a drink with Taylor and just chill. I mean, don't we all?

With this event, Taylor wore a white tank top underneath a blue striped button-down with matching pants of the same design. I honestly love how the color of his outfit compliments the color of the drink (In art class, blue and orange are known to be complimentary colors because the darkness of blue makes the lightness of orange pop off).

The darkness of the grassy green background also makes Taylor stand out, especially with the angle of this photo, so this outfit is a yes from me. Plus the slightly tousled hair and the little scruff adds more to the chill vibe of the event.

Vogue World: London- September 2023

This was the event that cemented Taylor's status as a prince in my mind. As an avid fan of fairytale stories, his two looks during this event was how I sometimes imagine princes when I read.

The white top with the attached waistcoat and the flared bottoms gives me the vibes of what people in the olden eras of London would wear. Think Victorian/Edwardian era. The second look of the night was this sparkling sleeveless number which is also unforgettable and provided a good contrast to the pristine white top.

I would also like to note that the grey sleeveless top is cropped so a bit of midriff was shown but I'm not complaining since Taylor is cut and fit anyway. These two outfits were really fit for a handsome prince like Taylor who is off to a stunning night in London.

Burberry (Spring/Summer 2024, London Fashion Week)- September 2023

If there's one thing I'm sure about, it is the fact that Taylor will slay even the most common of clothing. In this event, he wore a trench coat that is almost like a raincoat over a plaid long sleeve. It could be a common outfit for people who experience the rainy weather more often, but Taylor rocks it like a masterpiece meant to be exhibited in a fashion show, which is also a lovely idea.

I don't adore this outfit as much as I do the others, but one of the things that I like about this one is the practicality of it. It's a trench coat that can be used as a raincoat if one does not have an umbrella on hand and the rain suddenly started pouring.

Another thing was the idea that Taylor went to London Fashion Week and it generated like the highest media value. Like, that is a record and I'm not mad that he was one of the reasons that happened.

London and Milan Street Style- September 2023

Taylor is one of those people who could make street style look absolutely stunning. He could wear like a super casual combination of clothes like jeans and sneakers but combine that with his charm and you get a photo of him walking the pedestrian lane as if it's a fashion runway or him standing outside of his hotel yet it's gonna look like he posed for a fashion magazine shoot.

His street style in between the gorgeous ensembles he wore attending fashion weeks in London and Milan had fans gasping. Why? Because he looks so good in them.

These are four of my favorite Taylor street-style looks because it’s style and comfort, casual and preppy at the same time. All his clothes look plain at best but it still has the element of shimmer because of his accessories like his signature necklaces and bracelets, which is always lovely to see.

Ferrari (Spring/Summer 2024)-September 2023

Taylor was in his Doctor Strange era during this fashion week and I was so here for that era. It also made me scream because if you don't know, Doctor Strange is one of my most favorite Marvel characters ever!

Taylor could've played a variant of the character because to me, he kind of pulled the reverse version of Doctor Strange. Instead of wearing an all-blue outfit like the character, Taylor wore a dark red turtleneck top with a set composed of a dark trench coat and pants. He kind of completed his Doctor Strange look with tousled dark locks and a bit of stubble.

Honestly speaking, he also gave me a bit of Sherlock Holmes vibes with the trench coat which I honestly love, because I love the Sherlock Holmes stories.

Other than the fact that I completely rambled and disassociated, this look gives immense fall vibes to me, and it's perfect for that chilly stroll around the city while drinking a cup of cocoa or a cup of pumpkin spice latte.

That's A Wrap....for now...

Well, due to the limited amount of images I can put on here, I'm gonna need to put a part 2 for this fashion wrap up. This only means that Taylor had so many good looks this year that this site couldn't keep up with the insane amount of photos (kidding!).

But anyway, here's a link to Part 2 of the TZP Fashion Wrap-Up, so head over there if you want to see more of Taylor's fashion for the year.

#taylor zakhar perez #red white and royal blue #rwrb #fashion show #fashion #style

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lemoncrushh · 7 months ago

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Too Far From Texas | Eleven

STORY PAGE

Word Count: 7043

The room was dark when I woke up. For a moment I thought surely I had awaken from another one of my nightmares, but I couldn’t recall anything other than ecstasy. That was when I turned my head to the right and saw the silhouette lying on the pillow beside mine. He slept on his stomach, one arm wrapped around the pillow as though he was snuggling with it, the other stretched out, his hand nearly underneath my own pillow.

I smiled when I heard him snoring softly. I started to roll over onto my side when I realized my reason for waking up. I had to pee.

After cleaning up in the bathroom, I tiptoed back to bed, careful not to jostle him. I laid on my side facing him, catching a glimpse of his face in the moonlight that streamed through the blinds.

I couldn’t believe he was in my bed - that we’d made love just hours before. He was so beautiful, so unreal. I reached out to touch his arm, lightly grazing it with my fingertips. Though I told myself I didn’t want to wake him, my need and desire to touch him was overwhelming.

I caressed his arm, down to his hand where I covered it with mine. I felt him stir and I froze, watching and waiting for any more movement. I smiled to myself when he lifted his fingers so as to thread them with mine. Then he pulled them towards himself and kissed them, my fingertips warm at contact.

“C’mere,” I heard him say, shifting onto his side.

I shimmied closer to him, my head landing in the crook of his arm. He dropped his other arm around my waist, pulling me flush against his chest, kissing the top of my head. He tickled my lower back with his fingertips as I looked up to search his face, finding his bedroom eyes barely open, his plump lips parted and inviting.

He kissed me then, a sloppy, sleepy kiss that made me weak all over. He had a hold of me like he didn’t want to let go, and I’d never felt more safe and secure.

I let out a tiny little moan. Harry echoed it, kissing me deeper and harder, his hand cradling my neck. I didn’t push him back this time. I was ready and willing to give him whatever he wanted from me. But in the end, Harry only separated from the kiss to press his forehead to mine as he breathed heavily. Then he ran his hand down my shoulder and arm and grabbed my waist once more with a squeeze.

We fell asleep like that, Harry first, so I listened to the patterns of his breathing which eventually soothed me into my own slumber.

He was gone before the girls got up the next morning. Tod was arriving at ten, and Harry didn’t want there to be any weirdness or confusion, and I didn’t blame him. I kissed him at the door where he told me he’d be back that evening and we’d go to dinner before the concert.

After breakfast, Tod showed up to pick up the girls, and I kissed and hugged them goodbye. Then I made a beeline for my closet, pulling out anything I thought remotely looked like something I’d wear to a concert. Quickly I vetoed several shirts and a pair of skintight jeans that I knew I had worn to concerts years ago with Tod. They probably didn’t even fit me anymore. I had a pretty cool leather jacket, but even though it was November, it wasn’t cold enough in Houston yet for layers. In the end, the only items I deemed wearable were a pair of black boots and a so-so pair of jeans that had seen better days. Time to go shopping.

On a normal occasion such as this, I would have invited Lorelei to go with me, but since she had left for Australia, I was on my own. It was just as well. I loved my friend, but she’d no doubt be trying to get me to purchase some sort of leather bustier. No thanks. Besides, I enjoyed shopping by myself.

The mall was crowded, but I managed to find something I liked - a pretty flowing fabric top (a la Stevie) and a pair of jeans that made my butt look amazing. I knew I could add my black boots and some of my favorite jewelry and make it the perfect concert outfit.

I stopped at the food court to grab some lunch and check my phone. I already had a text from Harry saying he’d be at my place by five. I told him that was fine. I had no idea where we’d be going for dinner, but since I didn’t live all that close to the venue, I knew there would be traffic.

Before leaving the mall, I stopped at the lingerie store. I hadn’t originally planned on it, but somehow my legs took me there. I picked out a lovely matching bra and panty set to wear underneath my new outfit.

When I got home, I showered, making sure I shaved where needed and that my skin was baby soft when I finished. Wrapped in my towel, I chose my Stevie Nicks playlist on my phone to listen to while I got ready. Then I sprayed my favorite perfume and stepped into my new panties. I had to admit, I immediately thought of Harry’s hands removing them later and I got turned on. After completing my ensemble, I applied my makeup, a little heavier than I’d usually wear during the day, but not too much. I tousled my curls with a small amount of gel, letting it fall across my shoulders. Then stepping back to take a final look in the mirror, I smiled at myself. I looked pretty damn good.

My doorbell rang exactly at five. I almost wondered if Harry had sat in the car and waited until just the right moment. But none of it mattered once I opened the door.

“Wow,” Harry mouthed.

I blushed as I smiled at my feet and then back at him.

“You look beautiful, baby,” he said.

“Thanks. So do you.”

It was no lie. He wore a solid white shirt that probably cost more than my sofa, open to reveal his tattoos, his cross necklace displayed in the center of his chest, and his usual black jeans. This time, however, I noticed he wore a different pair of brown boots with fringe on the sides. He looked exquisite, and I wondered how I’d gotten so lucky to be going out with such a rockstar.

“You ready?” he held out his hand for me.

“Yep,” I nodded, grabbing my bag and following him out the door. I took his hand as we descended the stairs to the parking lot.

I saw the black car sticking out like a sore thumb, but fortunately my neighbors weren’t all that nosy. The driver opened the door for me, and I got in the back seat, Harry sliding in after me. He immediately took my hand again, and I smiled as he brought it to his lips and then set our joined hands in his lap.

“So where are we going for dinner?” I asked curiously.

“Just some place that came recommended,” he replied. “Near the Toyota Center.”

“Oh.” I didn’t bother to ask him who recommended it or what the name of it was. If it was good enough for Harry Styles, it was certainly good enough for me.

We drove up 45 North towards downtown, and as I watched the familiar scenery go by, I had to laugh to myself. But I hadn’t realized I’d done it out loud until Harry nudged me.

“What’s so funny?”

“It’s just…” I stared at him for a second, trying to string my thoughts together. “I’ve either driven or ridden as a passenger up and down this freeway for years. I know it like the back of my hand almost. Even been to the Toyota Center a few times. Saw Fleetwood Mac there, actually; they were the first concert after it opened. But I never would have thought…I’d be sitting here in the back of a car…with you. On our way to a restaurant I’m certain I’ve never been to.”

I was relieved when Harry echoed my laugh and squeezed my hand.

“It’s kinda weird, I guess,” I crinkled my nose.

“Doesn’t have to be,” he said. “Just think of it as a normal date.”

I blinked. “I suppose this is like our second date, huh?”

Harry pondered my question for a moment, then shrugged. “If you wanna think of it that way. But I don’t.”

“Why not?”

“Well, I’m not just considering the times I took you out as our only dates. Our first date was the night I came over and we had pizza and that amazing first kiss.”

“Oh,” I grinned slowly as I felt my cheeks grow pink.

“And I definitely consider last night one,” he continued. “Even if it was a surprise.”

I bit my lip as he leaned closer.

“And I slept in your bed, Stacey,” he murmured low. “That has to count for something.”

I nodded. “Definitely does.”

I focused on his mouth as he seemed to be doing the same with mine.

“And if you count all the phone calls,” he added before lifting my chin with his finger, his lips so close to mine they were almost touching, “and FaceTime calls…” he lightly kissed the corner of my mouth, “and texts…” then the other corner, “I’d say we’ve had a lot of dates.”

His eyelids were heavy before he shut them completely, his lips capturing mine. It was a very gentle, tender kiss, almost too quick, but lovely nonetheless.

“Thank you for tonight,” I said softly, our mouths separated but still so close I could feel his breath on my skin.

“No need to thank me yet,” he whispered with a lopsided grin. “The evening’s just begun.”

“Well…thank you anyway, in advance,” I smiled, tugging on the tail of his shirt. “I’m excited to see Stevie with you.”

“Me too, baby.”

The driver pulled up to the curb a few minutes later and opened the door for us. I recognized the downtown streets, but not the restaurant. When we stepped out onto the sidewalk, Harry lightly placed his hand on my back and opened the door for me. I felt a little flip in my stomach at the knowledge that I was about to be seen in public with a celebrity, but I made sure my face and demeanor didn’t show it. I remained cool as a cucumber when the Maitre D took us to a table, and a young waiter quickly appeared to greet us and take our drink orders.

Dinner was pleasant, with easy conversation and delicious food and wine. I did notice that Harry never made any physical contact with me, but I was fine with it. I wasn’t sure how many people were watching, even though our table was dark and somewhat private. I knew that the press and paparazzi would have a field day if they had any inkling that Harry Styles was out on a date. In Houston, Texas no less.

Before dessert, which Harry insisted we order, I excused myself to the ladies room. I smiled at a woman who was washing her hands as I walked past her to the stall. When I returned to wash my own hands, she was still there, slowly applying her lipstick and watching me like a hawk. I gave her a small smile again, feeling a bit uneasy. She didn’t return it. Instead, she dropped her lipstick into her bag and began fluffing her hair. I deliberately took out my own tube of lipstick, applying it in the same fashion she had hers, popping my lips together in a teenage-like kiss. Then I ran my fingers through my hair just like she had, letting the curls cascade down with a bounce. Our eyes met once more in the mirror as I grabbed the strap of my purse and slung it over my shoulder.

“Enjoy your evening,” I said, turning for the door.

Shaking my head as I walked down the alcove, I considered that perhaps I had been a little too smug to the stranger. She didn’t know me from Adam, and she might not have had any clue whom I was there with. It was just probably my own paranoia.

When I returned to the table, Harry beamed up at me, gesturing toward the decadent concoction in the middle of it.

“Oh, Jesus,” I groaned.

Harry handed me a spoon when I sat down, telling me to dig in. The fruit was fresh, the ice cream most definitely Haagen Dazs. The cake underneath was the most moist and delicious I’d probably ever eaten, and by the end, Harry and I were giggling as our spoons clinked together to get the last scoop.

“You take it,” I insisted, sitting back in my chair. “I’m stuffed.”

By the time we made it back to the car, the sky was dark, the streets lit up with excitement as though it anticipated the evening’s plans and surprises. My senses were on alert, the smell of cigarettes and cologne in the air. My skin tingled not just from the slightly cooler temperature, but from the rush I always got from going to a concert. Me entire body was turned on like a lamp, and Harry hadn’t even touched me yet.

Pulling up to the venue, once again the driver opened the door for me and helped me out of the car. I felt Harry’s hand on my back immediately, making me turn to look at him.

“Dunno if there’ll be cameras,” he whispered, “but just in case, stay close. If you see a flash, just keep walking. You don’t have to look at them if you don’t want to. I’ve got you. Alright?”

I stared at him for a second, swallowing hard. “Okay.”

To be honest, it hadn’t even dawned on me that there might be cameras around. I just thought of it as Houston, my turf. Other than the woman in the ladies room, nothing else had seemed suspicious.

We walked together briskly to the entrance, making it inside smoothly. I breathed a sigh of relief as Harry guided me to an area off to the right that was roped off, where a man in a suit stood with his hands folded in front of him. Harry pulled out his phone, holding it up for the man. I watched as he scanned it with a device, making a beeping sound, and then handing it back to Harry without so much as a flinch. Harry pocketed his phone again and grabbed my hand.

“Let’s go,” he wiggled his brows and pulled me through a black curtain that the man now held open.

The electricity surged right through to my toes when I saw the stage. It was closer than I’d imagined - not that I’d really imagined much. I didn’t want to assume that because Harry was, well, Harry, that we would be up close and personal. But this was definitely close. And we weren’t even at our seats yet.

Harry continued to hold my hand as we maneuvered through the crowd, finally stopping at the end of an aisle. It seemed to be some sort of VIP section, a little off to the side. Harry pointed at the seat next to where he stood and I sat down, taking in the view.

“Wow, this is great,” I commented, bouncing in my seat.

“Excited?” Harry nudged my shoulder.

“I always get excited before the show’s about to start. Just the energy in the room. I can feel it all throughout my body. The anticipation is so great.”

“Like Christmas morning?”

“Yeah,” I nodded, looking around at the audience.

“Or...that moment right before a kiss…” Harry continued.

I caught his expression out of the corner of my eye, quickly returning my gaze to the crowd.

“Exactly,” I mouthed.

I smiled when I spotted a girl on the front row in a layered dress, platform boots and a shawl. She twirled in front of her friends, giving her best Stevie and receiving a few claps and cheers.

“Honestly, I can’t believe you didn’t wear that,” I heard Harry whisper in my ear.

“Did that,” I smirked, turning to his face that was barely an inch from mine. “About fifteen years and twenty pounds ago.”

He returned my grin, his eyes traveling down my features and back up. “Bet you looked beautiful.”

I shrugged. “Not too bad. It was a black sparkly dress with spaghetti straps and a handkerchief hem. I had the boots and an old shawl that was my mother’s and-”

Three things happened then simultaneously that interrupted my thoughts. First, I could have sworn I heard someone scream “Haaaarrrryyyy!” really loud off in the distance. Second, the lights went out and the crowd went wild. Third, I was pretty sure Harry had been about to kiss me. Right there. In public.

I didn’t have time to really consider it when Stevie appeared on stage, walking up to her microphone adorned with ribbons and flowers. She opened with “Outside The Rain”, immediately going into “Dreams”, just as she had for many years. Then she did her greeting speech which made the audience erupt into cheers again.

Just like before when I’d seen Stevie, I was mesmerized by her. I’d almost forgotten I was there with Harry until I looked over at him. He was just as captivated. My heart flipped and my breath caught in my throat as I watched him watch her. It was a really beautiful moment, and for a second I wished I had a camera.

Harry didn’t peel his eyes away from Stevie, but somehow he knew I was looking at him. He lifted his hand and reached over to grab mine in my lap. He didn’t bother to bring it to his own lap, or even to let our joint hands dangle between us. He seemed content to let them remain in my lap, on my upper thigh. Taking a quick gander around, I concluded that there was no way anyone could see anyhow, especially since I could barely see them myself. Returning my attention to Stevie, I began dragging my thumb across the back of Harry’s hand and playing with his rings. I felt him squeeze my thigh, but instead of jumping out of my chair, I somehow sank deeper into it, wanting him to do it again. He began to draw circles on my leg with his finger tips, still intertwined with mine. I looked at him again, both of us mouthing the words to “Gypsy” as Stevie sang.

I have no fear...I have only love…

When the song was over, Harry finally released my hand to clap and whistle. I wanted to stand up and cheer, but I also wanted to grab him and kiss him. I couldn’t tell if I was really turned on, or if I had to pee. And the worst thing about concerts is missing something because you have to go to the bathroom. And because I was such a Stevie fan, I couldn’t find a song I was willing to miss.

Finally, halfway through “New Orleans”, I decided to suck it up and go. I nudged Harry to let him know. He smiled and nodded, lightly grazing his knuckles across mine as I rose from my chair. I thought I would have to wait in a line just like any other concert I’d been to, but I was surprised to see there wasn’t one when I turned the corner. In fact, there was a private little alcove right there next to the VIP section and I walked right in.

I almost stopped in my tracks when I saw a woman at the sink, putting on lipstick. For second, I thought it was the same woman from the restaurant, which would have been both spooky and awkward. But when I walked past her, I caught her smile as she dropped her lipstick tube into her bag. She indeed looked familiar, but not from the restaurant. She was some sort of celebrity, but I couldn’t seem to place her. I racked my brain trying to remember, hoping that getting another glimpse of her would jog my memory, but when I returned from the stall, she was gone.

As I made my way back to my seat, Stevie’s band was just starting “Stand Back”. I beamed a huge smile when I saw that Harry had risen from his chair, his arms above his head as he clapped to the beat, his hips swaying back and forth. I quickly joined him, singing along.

One man did not fall… He asked me for my love, that was all…

With childlike glee, Harry turned to me, took my hands and danced with me. There wasn’t much leg room, but we managed to dance the entire song, and I even did my best twirl, much to Harry’s delight. When Stevie began introducing the band, Harry still had a hold of my hands, his dimpled grin spreading from ear to ear, a lock of hair falling over his forehead. He was the cutest thing I’d ever seen. I wanted him to kiss me. Badly.

My chest still heaving, I released one of my hands to run it through my hair. That was when I heard the chords of the next song.

“Oh my God, I can’t believe she’s doing this song!” I exclaimed.

Harry wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me closer to him, our hips colliding. I sang along to “Crying in the Night” as I felt Harry rest his chin on my shoulder. When the harmony part came, he began to murmur the words in my ear, singing along with me like he had on the phone. Only this wasn’t just any duet. His voice vibrated in my eardrums, and I came so close to turning my head to find his lips. I managed to keep my restraint.

For the next couple of songs, Harry and I took our seats again. I never once looked behind me, though I wondered if anyone was watching us. I supposed I was afraid to find out.

When the “Edge of Seventeen” riff started up, Harry and I stood up once more, and we danced again. This time, he even turned around and danced with other people. I giggled at all of it, having the time of my life. By the time Stevie walked off stage, my cheeks hurt.

The lights went out on the stage then, but of course I knew it wasn’t over. Time for the encore of “Rhiannon” and “Landslide”. I was about to sit down and rest when Harry pulled me to him in a bear hug.

“You’re the best,” he breathed in my ear. “So much fun. Love being with you.”

As always, Harry said the perfect thing at the perfect moment. I had no words. When he released me from the hug, I let my hand slide down his cheek. When it dropped from his chin, he picked it back up, allowing his cheek to lean into it as he closed his eyes.

Stevie walked back out onto the stage then, the crowd all bounding to their feet when the intro to “Rhiannon” started. But Harry didn’t open his eyes. He remained in his spot, my hand cradling his face, his beautiful lips parted as he puffed out slow, even breaths. He looked completely content, like a baby that had been soothed and was ready for a nap.

“Harry…” I leaned in, hoping he could hear me. He shook his head.

“Stay here a minute.”

My chest shook as I chuckled, unsure what he was doing. But he was so darn adorable, I couldn’t resist. Stevie had already sung the first line, so I continued.

All your life you’ve never seen a woman, taken by the wind… Would you stay if she promised you heaven… Will you ever win…

The corners of Harry’s mouth curled up as I continued to sing, his dimple dipping deeper underneath my thumb. It was doubtful that he could even hear me over all the other people screaming off key, but his smile was all I needed to urge me forward. Finally, during the breakdown in the music, when Stevie would normally do her witchy twirl and start her ad libbing, Harry lifted his head and opened his eyes.

“Sorry,” he mouthed. “Had a moment.”

I just stared at him, my brows raised. He took my hand again and faced forward, and we watched the rest of Stevie’s “Rhiannon” exorcism like that, shoulder to shoulder, hand in hand.

Though I knew “Landslide” was the final song, and I had seen Stevie sing it many times over, I still wasn’t prepared. I wasn’t prepared to get choked up from the opening verse. I wasn’t prepared for Harry to notice and move to stand behind me and wrap his arms around me. I wasn’t prepared for him to sing it in my ear, his deep voice permeating throughout my body down to my toes. I wasn’t prepared to feel so weak and vulnerable. And I wasn’t prepared when he whispered in my ear.

“Shh, baby, it’s okay. Please don’t cry. I’ve got you.”

With a shaky breath, I leaned into him slightly, silently thanking him. I’d heard that song a million times, and though I felt like it spoke to me, I wasn’t sure it ever truly had until that moment.

I’ve been afraid of changing… Cause I’ve built my life around you… But time makes you bolder… Children get older… And I’m getting older too…

Harry swayed with me, rocking me from side to side. I felt safe. I felt cared for. I felt wanted.

When the song ended and Stevie was giving a farewell speech, Harry whispered in my ear once more.

“We should probably go. Beat the crowds.”

I nodded. I knew he didn’t mean just for traffic reasons.

We made it to the awaiting car in less than five minutes, much to my relief. I realized as I climbed inside that Harry still had a hold of my hand, and he didn’t let go as he climbed in behind me. I smiled at our joined hands between us on the seat, then up at him. He immediately leaned over, his other hand brushing my hair from my face.

“You okay?” he asked, his voice raspy.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” I replied, wiping away a stray tear. “Just got emotional in there.”

Before I could add another syllable or breath, Harry pressed his mouth to mine. I kissed him back, opening my mouth and allowing our tongues to meet. I sighed as he leaned closer and I pulled him back with me, grabbing at his cross that dangled from his neck. We were already on the freeway when he finally separated from the kiss. He still hovered over me, his plump, wet lips and heavy breathing revealing his desire.

“Please tell me I get to make love to you again tonight.”

I raised my brows, slowly dragging my teeth across my bottom lip as I reached my arm around his waist. “Please tell me that was a given.”

He chuckled low, shaking his head slightly.

“Just didn’t wanna be presumptuous again.”

“Sugar,” I said, looking him in the eye, “I think...from now on...it’s safe to say my answer’s always yes.”

“This is very good information,” he declared with a grin, running a hand up my outer thigh.

“Yes,” I nodded. “But don’t get too cheeky with it.”

“Cheeky with it? Is that like gettin’ jiggy with it?”

I burst out laughing. “No. Not even close.”

“Oh.”

He continued to let his hands seduce the seam of my jeans. It was driving me crazy, but I wasn’t about to let him know. Not after his cheekiness.

“So, this yes answer…” he licked his lips. Dammit, Styles. “Does this apply to all questions or…”

“You’re pushing it, cowboy.”

“Cowboy?” he sat back slightly with a giggle. “I’m not a cowboy!”

“You’re not?”

“No. Not unless you’re ride-...wait!”

I laughed so hard I almost snorted. “You’re awful. I didn’t mean that at all.”

“Liar. Yes, you did!”

“I swear, I didn’t.”

My laughter was not convincing him. He narrowed his eyes at me and sat back in his seat with a pout. My leg missed his touch already.

“Stop it, Harry,” I said, giving my own pout.

“Stop what?”

“Being so damn cute. I can’t take it.”

He leaned his head back against the seat and turned it to look at me, his eyes dancing.

“Apparently you can...cowgirl.”

“Alright, I walked right into that one, didn’t I?”

“Yes, you did,” he chuckled.

I scooted closer to him, rising up on my knees, my face close enough to kiss his.

“Sorry,” I murmured.

“What for?”

“Being obnoxious.”

Harry’s eyes darted between mine and my lips that threatened to kiss his as he gave me his sexy smirk. “You weren’t, baby,” he said. “I was just teasing.”

“Okay. Good.”

I kissed him then, placing my hands on either side of his face. He moaned and wrapped his arms around me when my tongue asked for permission. I boldly swung my leg over his lap and straddled him, making him moan again, a sound I could never get tired of.

“Stacey...God, baby.”

My lips travelled down his neck, nibbling underneath his jawline. I loved tasting his skin and the little sounds he made as I did so.

“Mmm, baby...I like this.”

“Like what?” I asked, sitting up to look at him.

“This. You on top of me. Kissing me. Tasting me. I like it a lot.”

I licked my lips. “This is very good information.”

Harry scoffed with a grin before grabbing my hips and pulling me closer.

We made it through my front door after many attempts of unlocking it, my hands fumbling and Harry on my neck. I tossed my bag on the sofa as he shut the door behind me.

“Do you want something to drink?” I asked him, making my way around the kitchen counter. “I’m dying of thirst.”

“Um...just water.”

“Yeah, me too.”

I opened the refrigerator, grabbing two bottles of water. Spinning around to the sink, I caught a glimpse of Harry walking slowly and deliberately into the kitchen, his fingers grazing the counter.

“These bottles are always hard to open,” I commented with a scowl, holding the first bottle over the sink, “and they fill them to the rim so they sometimes spill out all over the place.”

I heard his breathing before I felt his body pressed up against my back, his hands following, grabbing my hips and gliding them up my sides. I nervously sighed, trying my best to open the first bottle, taking a long swig of water. Then I set it down and reached for the second bottle, opening it easily despite my shaky hands. With Harry’s close proximity, it was difficult to turn around, but I somehow did, nearly knocking noses with him.

“H-here’s yours,” I barely whispered.

Harry eyed the bottle in my hand, then looked back at me. His eyes on me, he took the water and drank almost half the bottle in two large gulps, then set it on the counter behind me. Pushing his hips harder against me, Harry slid his hand underneath my ear, tilted his head and pressed his lips to mine. His other hand slid around to my back as I threw my arms around his neck, falling into the kiss. As our tongues collided, the chill from the water filled my mouth, making me tingle from head to toe. Slipping his hand from my neck down to my chest, Harry cupped my breast, his touch igniting a deeper fire within me. A tiny moan escaped my throat and Harry grabbed my waist, lifting me up to sit on the counter. I eagerly opened my legs, needing to feel him as closely as possible. With his eyelids heavy, he looked so completely delicious. His fingers resumed their touch on my upper thighs, this time with the added pressure of his thumbs. He stroked my legs down to my knees and back up, dangerously close to where I ached. And boy, did I ache. I wanted him, needed him, with every fiber of my being.

I wrapped my legs around him then, capturing his mouth in another deep kiss. I felt the rumble in his chest as he groaned against my lips. Lifting a hand from my thigh, he raked his fingers through my hair and cradled the back of my head, leaning me back as his tongue tangled with mine. I felt his hips move against me, his inevitable erection apparent and aching as much as I was.

With one small shift, Harry hoisted me up off the counter, my arms and legs still tight around him. Stepping back, he turned toward the hallway and carried me to my bedroom. The room was dark, but he didn’t turn on the light. I’d left the blinds open, and the moonlight streamed enough through them to cast a simple shadow. Ever so gently as though I were a china doll, he laid me down on the bed, his body hovering over mine. He kissed me over and over, so much that I began to wonder what his plan was. I considered asking him when he finally rose, kicked off his boots and lifted the hem of my shirt. I sat up to help him remove it, quickly lying back down. With hungry eyes, he slid his body down, his hands travelling the length of my legs. Finding the zippers of my boots, he pulled them off, dropping them at the foot of the bed. Then he made his way back up my legs again to the button on my jeans. Feeling a bit helpless, I just watched him as he tugged them off, adding them to the clothes pile.

“Very pretty,” he murmured, complimenting my new lingerie.

“Thanks.” I bit my lip as he hovered over me again.

“I like…”

His mouth found my chest then, the soft mound of skin above my bra. He pushed the strap down delicately before finding the clasp. He licked and sucked on my bare nipple as I arched my back. My breaths quickened, needing to feel him.

“Harry…” I gasped.

He merely nodded, his eyes on me as he moved to the other nipple, giving it the same treatment, then dropping the bra on the floor.

I reached for him, grasping at his shirt, desperate to get it off. Understanding my request, he simply pulled it over his head, not bothering with the rest of the buttons. I pulled him to me by his necklace, wanting to feel skin on skin. The cross tapped on my chest as I shut my eyes, but then I began to feel it drag down the center of my body. I protested with a whine as I looked down to see Harry situated between my legs, his lips kissing the edge of my panties.

“Harry...please...where…” I swallowed hard, “where’s the condom?”

“In a minute, baby,” he cooed.

“No. Now. Please. You’re driving me crazy.”

Harry chuckled then, a devilish tone that only made me want him more. He continued to nip at my skin, his fingers looping around the sides of my underwear.

“Fuck.”

“Patience, my love. I wanna taste you.”

My mouth made the O shape, but no sound came out. I felt my toes curl as Harry pulled my panties down and off. Then lifting one thigh with his hand, he kissed the inside of it, slowly, ever so achingly slowly, making his way to the center. My eyes rolled back when I felt his tongue meet my clit. Then I just about came when he hummed against me, his mouth devouring me like his favorite dessert.

He lifted my other thigh then, and I held it open with as much strength as I could. It was a wonder I could even breathe. I turned my head to the side, biting the side of my finger as he licked me, slowly with deliberate motions.

“Mmmm,” I began to moan. “Oh God.”

“That feel good, baby?”

“Yes. Fuck.”

I felt him hum against me again, and I about lost it. I grinded myself against his mouth, needing to feel my release. He sped up his tongue, licking in circles and side to side. I cried out then, looking down and seeing his eyes were on me, his hands squeezing my thighs. I came hard, watching him watching me.

“Holy shit…” I gasped, trying to catch my breath. My legs shook on the bed as Harry released them and climbed up over me.

“You taste so good,” he said, his voice low with sex.

“No, I don’t,” I shook my head.

Harry chuckled again. “Yeah, you do.”

Resting his elbows on either side of my head, he let his fingers push the curls off my forehead before kissing me down to my nose and then my mouth. I could taste myself on his tongue, and even though I never had any issues with that sort of thing, it seemed even more of a turn on then than it ever had before.

“See?”

I let out a breath slowly, lightly grazing my fingertips down his back to the waistband of his jeans that he unfortunately was still wearing. I found the button and zipper in the front, and Harry generously lifted his hips so I could slip my hand inside. I palmed his erection, watching his eyelids flutter.

“Sugar…” I whispered, using the term of endearment he seemed to like.

“Yeah, baby. Tell me what you want.”

“You. I need to feel you inside me. Now.”

Harry licked his lips and swallowed, his eyelids closing softly as he nodded. “Yeah. I need it too.”

I watched as he rose again from the bed to remove his jeans and boxers. He produced a condom from his pocket - or wallet, I wasn’t sure - and slid it on with ease. Everything Harry did, it seemed, even making love, he did easily.

He kissed me again before entering me. I grabbed his hips, lifting my own to guide him where I needed him most. He let out a moan as he began to thrust harder and deeper. I lifted my legs, opening myself up to him completely.

“Jesus, Stacey…” he whined in my ear. “Fuck, you’re so sexy.”

I sucked on my bottom lip as I watched his face in the moonlight. Then I cupped it in my hands, capturing his lips. He cried in my kiss as I began to suck on his tongue. His hips moved slowly, and I could feel him, all of him. He was so hard, so good.

“Oh my God,” I moaned against his mouth.

“I know,” he breathed.

“Don’t stop. Please.”

“‘m not. But…’m so close, baby.”

“I need...I need to feel like this...forever…”

I was talking gibberish, I knew. The sensation was just overwhelming, and I couldn’t get enough. I wrapped my legs around him again, wanting to be as close as possible. Harry slid his hands down my hips and back up to my waist, finally winding them around me. We moved as one, rocking back and forth. Harry’s breaths were so loud in my ear, I worried that he was okay until he sat up on his knees, pulling me with him.

I watched his face again as I grabbed his shoulders and began riding him. His eyelids seemed to get too heavy to remain open, his lips parted and swollen. I ran my fingers through his hair, whispering his name.

“Feels so good…” he groaned. “Aaah fuck me, baby.”

I rode him faster, reaching my peak just as he let out another groan and expletive. Our bodies shook, wet with perspiration as we came. Harry didn’t open his eyes until our breaths evened out. Then he softly laid me back down and kissed me passionately.

When he rose again, he headed for the bathroom. I laid in darkness, the moonlight through the blinds reflecting on the mirror as I waited for his return.

I thought about what I’d said. Perhaps it hadn’t truly been gibberish. I wished I could feel the way I felt in that moment for the rest of my life. And not just because of the sex. Yes, it was amazing and felt incredible. But the feeling was much deeper than that.

I finally knew. I was in love with him.

I noticed the glow of light from the bathroom and turned my head to see Harry leaning against the door frame, a toothbrush in his mouth. I giggled at the image which was both sexy and adorable. He wiggled his brows, then quickly turned to spit in the sink.

“My turn,” I said, sitting up.

After I cleaned up, I returned to see that Harry had turned down the bed and was lying on his side. I smiled as I crawled in next to him, reaching over to give him a kiss, my hair falling around his glowing face.

“Hey, what was that?” he pouted when I pulled away.

“What was what?”

“That kiss. That was not an ‘I just had the best night’ kiss. That was an ‘I’ll call you, we should do this again sometime’ kiss.”

I smiled wider and sighed, trying not to reveal what was really on my mind. “Sorry, sugar. Didn’t mean that at all.”

I kissed him, really kissed him then.

“Mmm,” he sounded. “Much better.”

“Good. However...we should do this again.”

He grinned, his hands getting tangled in my curls. “Yes. We definitely should. And we definitely will.”

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innerwearsofficial · 1 month ago

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New Year Lingerie Collection: The Must-Have Sets for Every Occasion

Resolution is not just for the New Year, but the New Year is also a perfect time to update your wardrobe and buy something new. Given the fact that confidence is key to success and all the trends in starting the year right there is so many ways to feel confident and get the most of the New Year lingerie collection. From deep cleavage, halter-neck, and plunging neckline to the new fashion classics, the choices seem limitless and this lingerie for every occasion is easy and fun to shop.

From the enticing designs for night-outs and elegant dinner dates to sleepwear, the New Year lingerie trends for 2025 are vast. This guide also exposes the need-to-have lingerie sets in Australia, best ways for buying women’s lingerie online, and it goes further to discuss other related collections such as beach cover-ups, maxi dresses among others.

The Essence of a New Year Lingerie Collection

It is a common known fact, that every New Year we have new fashion trends, and this sector is not an exception. A deliberately selected New Year lingerie collection is not a mere matter of elegant beautification; it is about sensibility, self-assertiveness, and trendy sensuousness, to wear, always. Lingerie is what you wear close to your body and choosing the appropriate items can dictate your posture.

Lingerie shopping has gone to a whole new level in Australia with brands providing cuttings and sizes range, fabric technology and fashion trends. Whether one needs trendy high-waisted swimsuits for their New Year beach run or sultry lace bodysuits for a bash, having sets tailored to your wants guarantees that you’re prepared.

Stylish Lingerie Picks for the New Year

1. Classic Lingerie Sets for Every Occasion

Traditional combinations that are now called lingerie are a must-have in every woman’s closet. These sets of wears which generally come with a bra and matching panties are versatile enough to wear during the day or night occasion. They are comfortable to be worn under corporate wear as well as other casual wears, giving both support and elegance.

Styles to Look For:

Lace Sets: Make it sweet with minor designs that reflect the lace. If you’re in the mood for a little more colorful shades though, then try going for reds, blacks or neutral colors.

Satin Sets: Satin is silky soft, and therefore lingerie sets created with this material are perfect for the bedroom.

Everyday Cotton Sets: Choose functional and comfortable clothing with the best fabrics for summer.

Where to Shop: Many online stores in Australia offer a wide variety of lingerie shopping Australia options, making it easy to find your perfect match.

Why It’s a Must-Have: Classic lingerie sets offer versatility. They’re easy to mix and match with other wardrobe pieces and suit nearly every occasion.

2. Luxury Lingerie for Special Occasions

For those special occasions in the intimacy of a couple, we turn to luxury lingerie for special occasions. High-style design of these confections typically incorporates disposable man-made and natural fibre such as silk, velvet, and complex lace that might be embroidered or beaded.

Top Picks:

Corsets: Fashion up your New Year style with structured corsets that help you get the perfect figure.

Bridal-Inspired Lingerie: Call it white or pastel and with additional embroidery, it creates a perfect dress for more than just weddings.

Designer Pieces: Strive to find the Australian lingerie trends that are unique and highlight the enhancement of invention and quality work.

Pro Tip: Luxury lingerie is an investment. Pay attention to fabric care instructions to keep your pieces looking new for years to come.

3. Bodysuits That Redefine Confidence

The New Year bodysuit collection is a prominent trend of 2025 for noticed fashion appearance. These shaping garments are therefore trendily practical thus can be worn both as an undergarment and as an overgarment.

How to Style Bodysuits:

Bodysuit paired with tailored trousers is perfect for a sophisticated evening out and all sorts of parties.

Coordination of a velvet bodysuit and a midi skirt is great when going for a romantic dinner.

For flare pants and casual occasions, pair a plain white cotton bodysuit with a denim jacket, and skinny jeans.

Must-Try Trend: Look for bodysuits with cut-outs, mesh panels, or embroidery to make a bold statement.

4. Plus-Size Options for Inclusive Style

No more worrying about whether the clothes fit the beauty size. The plus-size dresses collection and plus-size loungewear are fashionable and comfortable clothing pieces inclusive of all sizes. These collection ranges from the supportive bras, the seamless panties, and the fashionable chemises all in a bid to appreciate curves.

Key Features to Look For:

Wide straps and adjustable bands for comfort.

High-waisted panties for a smooth silhouette.

Soft, stretchable fabrics like modal and bamboo blends.

Why It Matters: Representation in fashion is crucial, and these collections ensure that every individual can find lingerie that makes them feel confident and beautiful.

5. High-Waisted Swimsuits and Beach Cover-Ups

Planning a tropical getaway or a beach party for New Year’s? Don’t miss out on the beach cover-ups collection and high-waisted swimsuits. These pieces blend functionality and fashion, giving you the confidence to shine at any beach or poolside event.

Styling Tips:

Choose high-waisted swimsuits for a retro-inspired look.

Add a sheer or crocheted cover-up for an effortless, chic vibe.

Pair with oversized sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to complete the look.

New Year Lingerie Trends for 2025

1. Bold Colors and Textures

This year’s lingerie trends embrace bold, vibrant colors like emerald green, deep burgundy, and cobalt blue. Textured fabrics such as velvet, mesh, and sequins add an element of glamour, making these pieces perfect for New Year celebrations.

2. Minimalistic Elegance

For those who prefer understated beauty, minimalistic lingerie featuring clean lines, neutral tones, and simple designs is trending. These pieces are ideal for layering and offer a timeless appeal.

3. Statement Bodysuits

Bodysuits with embellishments, embroidery, or bold cut-outs are dominating the fashion scene. These versatile pieces work well for formal events and can be styled easily with other wardrobe staples.

Two-Piece Sets Collection- A Versatile Addition

The two-piece sets collection is all about coordination. These matching sets, often featuring crop tops and shorts or bralettes and high-waisted panties, are perfect for casual outings or lounging.

Why You’ll Love Them:

They’re easy to wear and style.

They come in various fabrics like satin, cotton, and silk.

They’re perfect for mixing and matching with other wardrobe items.

Additional Collections to Explore

1. Tops & Tees Collection

For those looking for something casual yet chic, the tops & tees collection is a great option. Pair them with your favorite lingerie for a relaxed, stylish look.

2. Jumpsuits and Maxi Dresses Collection

For a seamless transition from day to night, check out the jumpsuits collection and maxi dresses collection. These pieces combine comfort and elegance, making them perfect for any celebration.

How to shop for New Year lingerie

Whether you're shopping for everyday essentials or glamorous pieces for special occasions, knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Here's how you can streamline your lingerie shopping experience:

Know your size

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astra-galaxie · 1 month ago

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✨🍕💼🥊🧊🍀🧠💀 for oberon please :3

Another OC to add to the request list! It's time for Nathan’s husband and Lars’s little brother to take the stage!

✨- How did you come up with the OC’s name?

Because it's been haunting me since high school!😭

Long story short, we read “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” in English class, and I liked the name Oberon but didn’t consider using it for an OC. When designing Nathan’s husband, I jokingly thought about using Oberon because of the “Oberon and the Indian boy” thing in the story. (I know, bad joke.) And while I tried using other names, I kept coming back to Oberon! Didn’t help that I was always seeing references to the play too… Seriously, there’s even one in MotP! So, since I couldn't escape it, I decided to use it!

If you can’t beat them, join them!

🍕 - What is their favourite food?

Burgers. Oberon loves a good burger and enjoys trying new combinations of meats, toppings, and sauces. He also loves hosting family barbeques, where he’ll fry up as many burgers and other foods as his friends and family can enjoy.

💼 - What do they do for a living?

Now that the Bureau has been disbanded, Oberon is between jobs. He still works for U.N.I.T. but doesn't have a civilian job jet. He will be moving to Grimsborough with Nathan so their son can finish school before they move to Australia, as they always planned. Oberon is considering a few career ideas, but he hasn’t decided on one yet.

(AKA, I haven't decided on one yet!😅)

🥊 -What do they love to do? What do they hate to do?

Love: Performing. Oberon has always had a flair for performing and loves being on stage. He’s the drummer in Lars’s band, and along with that, he also enjoys performing in plays and doing magic acts. Some people claim it's because he’s named after a theatre character, but whatever the reason, Oberon loves taking the spotlight (but he will always share it with others).

Hate: Buying new clothes. While Oberon is very fashionable and loves dressing up, he hates shopping for new clothes because it means he needs to find ones that won’t irritate his scarred skin. He has learned which fabrics will and will not irritate his skin, but that does not always guarantee he’ll be comfortable wearing them. The fit of the clothes and how the fabric has been treated play a role in his comfort, so a clothes shopping trip is always a daunting task and challenging experience.

🧊 - Is their current design the first one?

Pretty much. Some things changed slightly, like his hairstyle and the burn scars, but Oberon is mostly the same as what I initially planned for him to look like!

🍀 - What originally inspired the OC?

That I gave Nathan a kid before I gave him a husband!😅

Avi’s origins are actually older than my series. I created him for an unrelated crack fic I wrote before starting my series. In it, he had a different father, so when I decided to bring Avi back and make him canon in my series, I realized I needed to give him a new second father. So, Oberon Douglas was created as I always loved Lars’s character and wanted an excuse to give him more love!

🧠 - What do you like most about the OC?

It's a tie between his personality and design. I love that Oberon has similarities to Lars to showcase their connection but differences to set him apart from his brother. I also love writing him and Nathan together because their somewhat opposite personalities work well together. As for his design, while I’m terrible at drawing burn scars, I still love the avatar I created for his profile. The scars show that he went through so much in his past but didn’t let it stop him from building a future.

💀 - Does your OC have any phobias?

Claustrophobia - fear of small or tight spaces.

After being trapped under a support beam in a burning house, Oberon developed a fear of being trapped in small spaces. The fire part somewhat scares him, but being trapped and unable to get out of anywhere is what scares him more. He prefers wide, open spaces to small, confined ones any day!

Ta-da! Oberon’s answers are done!

I hope you enjoyed them and thank you for the ask!

#criminal case #criminal case save the world #my ocs #astra's ocs #oberon douglas #nathan pandit #lars douglas #headcanons #ask

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voldemorts-tap-shoes · 2 years ago

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Not sure if there’s a way to make the ultimate lost love song into an otp fic that’s NOT full of angst, but I tried y’all 😅

@cruelsummer-ficfest era #5 folklore/speak now

if one thing had been different

Hermione can’t completely explain why she’s here. Why she thinks a man she hasn’t seen or spoken to in multiple years—God, how many has it been now?—will have answers that she doesn’t have. Why she hopped on a plane yesterday morning to fly halfway around the world without the faintest idea of what she’s looking for or what she’ll say if he turns up. When he turns up. Because he will. She knows that, at least.

She’s not sure of anything in her whole fucking life right now except the fact that Ron will meet her for the sole reason that she asked him to, no explanation required.

Which is a good thing, because she doesn’t have one. About this, or anything else. It wasn’t any one thing, any huge monumental decision that led her to where she is now, but rather a series of tiny little decisions that painted her whole world a different set of colors than the one she had planned. It’s like she woke up one morning and looked around and didn’t recognize her own life and can’t quite pinpoint where things shifted.

Hell, she barely recognizes herself anymore. But if there’s one person who knows her better than anyone—better even, maybe, than she knows herself—it’s Ron. Even now. She’s sure of it.

Her heart jumps into her throat every time the little bell over the front door announces a new patron to the little coffee shop, but so far, none of them have been Ron. She hasn’t spotted anyone else she recognizes either, but that was by design. Meeting Ron somewhere in Diagon Alley would have meant a chorus of “long time no see” and “didn’t know you were in town” that she doesn’t have the energy to respond to. No, meeting him in Muggle London is the safer option.

She checks her watch for what must be the hundredth time, even though it’s still a few minutes ahead of the time she gave him. And just like that, as if summoned, the next chime of the bell announces Ron’s arrival.

Tucked into a little corner in the back, she allows herself a moment to watch him before he spots her, and her heart thunders in her chest as she drinks him in. So much for moving on. Is there ever going to be a day when he doesn’t have this effect on her? Five years apart ought to have done it, but apparently not.

She’s told herself time and time again that she’s over him, and it’s easy enough to believe all the way in Sydney. And a second chance with Ron isn’t why she came to London on this impromptu soul-searching mission, truly. Hermione just needs a friend. Someone who understands her. Her friendships in Australia all seem superficial in comparison. People there know her day-to-day: where she works, how she always gets takeout on Fridays, that she has a cat. Ron is big picture. Ron knows her, down to the very fabric of her being.

Even if she wanted to dig that grave up another time, Ron has more than moved on, too, as far as she knows. The couple of times she’s seen him since she left, he’s always been with someone, though never the same someone twice. Besides that, he’s the one who put the brakes on them in the first place. He wasn’t ready, after the war, so soon after losing his brother, and she understood that. She assumed once he was ready, he would have reached out, but he never did. At some point he must have healed enough for a relationship—just not with her.

His eyes finally lock on hers as he scans the room, and his steps pull up short. She gives him a tentative wave, and he smiles in return, though it’s not the big cheerful grin he used to give her. Ron weaves his way through the cafe to her table, hesitating a moment before he takes the seat across from her. “Hey.”

“Hi,” Hermione returns. “Thanks for meeting me. I hope I haven’t taken you away from anything important.” Or anyone.

She hears the awkwardness in her voice, but she’s not sure where to start. Small talk will have to do for now.

Ron shrugs and folds his hands on the table in front of him. “Nah. We just finished up a big case at work, so I’ve got a bit more free time at the moment.”

“Oh. Good. You still like being an Auror, then?”

He raises one eyebrow, blue eyes laser-focused on her. “Hermione.”

She feels herself coming unglued under the scrutiny, but she meets his gaze determinedly despite the tremor in her voice as she responds. “What?”

“That’s not why we’re here.” It’s not a question. It doesn’t need to be.

“No,” Hermione admits, “it’s not.”

They sit in silence for a moment before Ron speaks again. “You look…” He hesitates, searching for the right word. “Lost.”

It took him all of two minutes to cut right to the heart of how she’s feeling, summing up every doubt and insecurity swirling in her mind in a single word. Tears pool in her eyes, and Ron shifts forward in his seat.

“Fuck, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to—”

“No, it’s not—” Hermione shakes her head and almost smiles. This is exactly why she’s here, isn’t it? Because Ron has always known how to see through the bullshit to what’s real? “You’re right.”

His eyes sweep across the empty table. “Want a coffee?”

“Please.” Hermione reaches for her purse, but Ron waves her off as he stands.

“I got it.” He hands her a tissue, and she shoots him a grateful smile. “Be right back.”

He returns a few minutes later and hands her a hazelnut coffee with just the right amount of cream—no need to ask her coffee order, either—before he sits and waits, letting her speak first this time.

She takes a few soothing sips of the drink as she collects herself. “Do you ever think…maybe there’s a single moment…that if you could change just one thing that happened in the past, your whole life might be different?”

Ron weighs her question before answering. “Not really, I guess. I mean, there’s definitely moments that make more of a difference than others, but…” He pauses to fiddle with the paper sleeve on his cup. “I don’t think you can boil your whole life down to a single moment. Seems like a lot of pressure.”

“Maybe you’re right.”

“Maybe. But if you’re thinking about it, what would you change?”

She doesn’t want to answer. Even though she’s fairly certain she can trace the alternate path of her life back to the moment she left to find her parents in Australia. Looking back, nothing feels right after that point. But that would require admitting that the real mistake was leaving Ron. Or was it? She’s not even sure anymore. He didn’t come after her, either. What did she leave behind, really?

“You don’t have to answer that.” Ron gives her a reassuring smile. “But is it something you can change? Now?”

“I’m not sure.” She could move back to England, easy enough. Her parents have made clear that they’re not coming back, which is why she stayed in Sydney, but at some point she’s got to start living life for herself. Moving back won’t erase the last seven years, though. What good would it do her now to come back? “Did you love me?”

The words slip out before she can resist the temptation to ask him. Both of Ron’s eyebrows shoot up to his hairline, but she doesn’t take the question back even though she probably should. They really had something, she thought, until they didn’t, and she’s always wondered if maybe she made more of them in her head than what they really were.

“Does that matter, after all this time?” he asks softly. “Is that why you’re here?”

“No, it’s not why, but…” But maybe it does matter. Or maybe it doesn’t. It’s not like either answer will make her feel better. “Never mind. I didn’t mean to put you on the spot like that.”

“I don’t mind. But is anything I say going to be the answer you’re looking for?”

Hermione chuckles. “I see you’ve mastered Legilimency. I was just thinking the same thing.”

She stares across at him and Ron meets her gaze without wavering. These aren’t the answers she came for, but if he’s willing to give them to her, is she really just going to leave well enough alone? Leave without the truth she so desperately needs, in whatever form it’s offered?

“Okay,” she says, the word escaping her on an exhale. “Sure. What the hell. Did you love me?”

At least if he puts words to what she’s long-suspected—that she was just a Hogwarts crush, that he hasn’t thought twice about her that way since she packed her bags and moved down under—then maybe she can stop wondering what if and put that part of her life to rest for good.

Ron’s head tips back with a laugh, but he’s serious when he looks back at her. “Yeah,” he replies simply. “Fuck, Hermione, of course I did.”

Hermione draws in a long breath, then lets it back out with a laugh of her own. “Nope, that didn’t make me feel any better.”

“So…” Ron smiles at her over his coffee cup. “New topic, then?”

They get lost in easy conversation after that, talking and laughing and catching up while the cafe clientele turns over and over around them. The bright daylight shifts to a murky evening grey, and finally to a dark night lit only by the streetlights above them as the cafe shuts down and forces them out to the sidewalk. Hermione hesitates to voice a goodbye; once she says it, she’s not sure how long it will be before their next hello.

“So, how long are you in town for?” Ron asks, stuffing his hands in his pockets as he too makes no move to leave.

“Just a couple of days. I’ve got to get back to work.” The words feel heavy in her mouth. Wrong. But until she figures out what to do next, she has a routine, and responsibilities.

Ron nods, still not moving. “Well, don’t be such a stranger, okay? Did this…did I…help?”

“You did. Thanks.”

She reaches for him then, folding herself into his open arms. It’s the first time they’ve touched all afternoon, and Hermione doesn’t want to let go.

“I hope you’re happy, Hermione,” Ron murmurs, his voice muffled into her still-too-bushy hair as he holds her tight. “And if you’re not, I hope you find whatever you’re looking for.”

She just nods against his chest, not saying what she knows now to be true. Even though she’s maybe always known it deep down. That she found what she was looking for a long time ago. That it would’ve been fun—would’ve been great—with Ron. That he should’ve been the one.

He turns his head to place a kiss on her temple, his lips searing against her skin, before he pulls away and sets her at arm’s length. “Take care of yourself.”

“You too.” She turns away before Ron can catch the tears in her eyes, but only makes it a couple of steps before her name stops her. When she turns back to Ron, he’s looking at the ground, toeing a pebble with his shoe.

“This probably isn’t what you want to hear, but…” He sighs and then presses on. “Australia. That’s your moment, I think. If that one thing had been different, then…” He doesn’t finish, but he doesn’t have to. Then everything would be different today.

She doesn’t have the words to argue; he’s right. She just needed to hear it from someone that isn’t the voice in her own head.

“If that’s my one thing…do you think it’s too late to change it now?”

It’s a loaded question, but Ron doesn’t flinch. “I’d like to think it’s never too late to start over on the things that really matter.”

His answer is just as loaded, but now she’s the one who’s not in the right headspace for this. For them. And she thinks they both know it, because neither of them have made any move to snog the other right there on the sidewalk even though she wants to, even though she sees the same desire reflected back at her in his eyes. But they can both read between the lines. It’s a start.

“Then…I guess I’ll see you soon.”

Hermione gives Ron one final smile and wave as she turns away again. He doesn’t stop her this time, but there’s a lightness, a hopefulness in her heart that wasn’t there a few hours ago.

Maybe the greatest love of all time isn’t over, after all.

#romione #ron weasley #hermione granger #ron x hermione #cruel summer fic fest #second chances

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