#feelin inspired tonight boys

[seidenbros]

How to ask someone out

Requests are open | prompt lists for inspiration | Stranger Things Masterlist

Pairing: Single Dad!Eddie x Female!Reader Word count: 1221 Summary: James asks his Dad and Steve how to ask you out, and then he puts this advice to the test. Warning/Tags: pure fluff, domestic shit, Single Dad Eddie, Co-parenting with Steve, just adorable Eddie mini me Christmas Lights

“Daaaad!” James had been standing at the window, watching you in the neighbouring garden for ten minutes now, but he still hadn’t found out how to do this, how to ask you on a date. After talking about this with his Dad and Steve the day before, James had been thinking about this nonstop, because he didn’t want to screw this up. He liked you after all!

“What is it, nugget?” Eddie walked over to the living room, hair still damp from the shower he’d taken earlier. He took a seat on the sofa, patted the spot next to him and James immediately followed, sitting down next to his Dad.

“Morning,” Steve said with a yawn as he walked into the living room, flopping down on the armchair opposite the sofa. He’d been working on his next book till late last night, but it was coming along nicely. James was always his test object, the one to decide whether his story was good or not. Who would have thought that Steve Harrington would end up writing children’s literature? The guy who hadn’t read a lot, but who’d been forced to read a couple of books when Eddie and him had moved in together.

“Uncle Steve.” James looked at him, then back at his father, and he looked so serious, that it was a mix of adorable and terrifying. “How… How do I ask y/n out?”

“Um…” Eddie started, his eyes widening. Honestly, he wasn’t the date expert and definitely not someone who’d asked a lot of people out. That was really more Steve’s thing or at least it had been, because even Steve had slowed down in that department, still looking for the one woman that would keep his heart safe forever.

“Well, first you gotta compliment her. Make her smile! What do you like about her?” Steve leaned forward, his forearms resting on his thighs, his focus on James. Oh, he was in his element, no question about that, even though they had both thought that this day would come a lot later, and especially not with someone who could be James’ mother. But it was probably great practice, and they knew nothing would come of it.

“She’s really nice!” James’ whole face lit up when he said that and Eddie had to smile as well. “And she’s pretty.”

“Hmm that’s good. Anything particular?” Steve cast a glance at Eddie, who was listening in to that conversation.

“Hmm…” James thought for a moment, poking out his tongue a little, because he was so concentrated, something that made him look even more like his father. “Her eyes!”

“Well, then start with that. Tell her that she has really pretty eyes and then just go for it.” In James' case, they were both pretty sure that you would say yes, so he could probably say whatever he wanted. “But what do you want to do for a date with her?” Eddie asked and looked down at his boy. Because just asking you out without a plan might not be such a good idea. James had to come up with something at least.

“Can I ask her to come here? And we can make pizza?” James looked up at Eddie, the grin on his face making Eddie say yes to whatever he wanted, because it filled his heart with so much joy to see James like this. They could do pizza, and that way, Eddie would have something to eat as well.

“If that’s what you want, we can do that,” Eddie said, ruffling James’ locks, before he looked over at Steve again. “You gonna be with Robin tonight, right?”

“Yeah, she asked me to come over for movie night. So you’re free to invite her over.” Steve winked at James, a grin on his face. “You should ask her straight away.”

“Alright!” Excitement shining in his eyes, James hopped off the sofa and sprinted to the hallway.

“How you feelin’? Your little boy’s gonna have his first date!” Steve’s grin was wider than Eddie had seen it in a long time.

“They grow up so fast!” he said, choking back a fake sob while he cupped his own cheeks. It only lasted a second before Eddie started chuckling. “She’s sweet, so he’ll have a great time.”

“U-hu…” Steve commented, eyeing Eddie a moment longer.

“What?”

“She’s sweet?”

“Oh shut up!”

“Hahaha got you!”

“I said shut up Harrington!” Eddie took the pillow next to him and threw it at Steve before he got up and followed his son. He didn’t want him to go alone, so he put on some boots and his coat before he left the house with James. They only needed to go to the fence, because you were still busy in the garden, shovelling snow so you were still able to walk around the house.

“Hey y/n!” James called out as soon as he was at the fence, looking over at you, Eddie staying a few steps behind, because he was just here as moral support.

“Oh hey James! Eddie!” you said with a smile when you turned around, put the shovel down and walked over to them. Seeing them made your whole face light up, especially because James was just a joy to be around. You’d been outside for quite some time now, so you didn’t feel the tip of your nose anymore, but you loved it. Winter was your favourite season with all the lights, and the snow you had at the moment.

Eddie raised his hand to wave at you, a smile playing on his lips, but he didn’t say anything. It was up to James to lead the conversation.

“You have really pretty eyes!” Talk about straight forward! Eddie held back a chuckle at his son’s words, but it was just adorable to watch him like this. He was so confident, that he sometimes wondered, where James had gotten that from.

“Oh… thank you, that’s really sweet of you!” A surprised chuckle came over your lips, before you smiled down at him. You couldn’t remember the last time someone had told you something like this, and even though it was an eight year old boy, the words still made you happy.

“I was wondering,” he started, taking another step towards the fence, looking up at you. “You wanna go on a date with me?”

“A date?” you asked, taken aback, because you had certainly not expected anything like this. Your eyes met with Eddie’s, who just shrugged his shoulders with an apologetic, yet adorable smile, and you knew that he was in on this whole situation. Honestly, it was just too cute and so forward, that you didn’t find it in your heart to say no. After all, you’d probably been on worse dates anyway. “Yeah… Yeah I’d love to!”

“Really?” James squeaked, getting on his tiptoes, before he looked back at Eddie for a moment, giving his father his biggest gin. “Awesome!” Slowly, he looked back at you again. “We wanna make pizza. Is six okay?”

“Six sounds perfect. I’ll be there!”

“Great!”

And while James walked back to his father, Eddie mouthed a thank you in your direction, but you could only smile. This little boy had already won your heart, so you could never have said no to him.

Tag-list: @violetpenguinkris @tellhound @ghosttownwherenoonegoes @spideyanakin-interacts @bellamy-barnes @beepisbeep @snapefiction @hardysbitch @give-em-hellfire @sadbitchfangirl @kimmi-kat @lacrymosa-24 @ruinedbythehobbit @samlealea @hacker-ghost @kirsteng42 @princesseddie @anaisweird @harringtonfan4 @ethereal27cereal @theywitchsblog @luteandsword 

Let me know (send me a message) if you want to be on one of my tag-lists. I have one for the Promises Series, Eddie x Reader, Steddie and Steve x Reader 💚

[slayersaided]

top 5 song associations

share the top songs in your playlist that most inspire / represent your muses the most.  bonus points if you include lyrics to go along with it.

pollyanna by linda hennrick

you may say I'm a fool feelin' the way that I do i believe in friends and laughter and the wonders love can do i believe in songs and magic and that's why I believe in you

bein' friends by linda hennrick

when you're looking for a shoulder, you can cry on won't you think about me? when you're looking for someone you can rely on don't you ever doubt me i'll be there someway, somehow that's what being friends is about

lemon boy by cavetown

lemon boy and me started to get along together i helped him plant his seeds and we'd mow the lawn in bad weather it's actually pretty easy being nice to a bitter boy like him so, i got myself a citrus friend

no matter what by rebecca sugar

through whoever you've been through whoever you'll be through whatever you lose you will always have me at the end of your rope i'll be holding you tight i'm gonna be right by your side, no matter what

talk to me by cavetown

we can talk here on the floor on the phone, if you prefer i'll be here until you're okay let your words release your pain you and I will share the weight growing stronger day by day it's so dark outside tonight build a fire warm and bright and the wind, it howls and bites bite it back with all your might

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tagged by: @feelsofhiraeth (tysm!!) tagging: @deityforged, @lightningstrickcn, @ofsavior, @sorrowmarked, @naisetsu, @whirling-fangs, @suender, @bigdhashira, @distortedbeat, @tvrningout, & anyone else who wants to do it! just say i tagged you.

[lazysublimeengineer]

electric touch

Summary: All I know is this could either break my heart or bring it back to life.

Set during the staged honeymoon period of Reo and Isagi in Hawaii. Expounding on some missing scenes from my finished multichaptered Reosagi fic, “Betrothed.” Of how Reo and Isagi gotten closer to each other and blurred the lines between their bogus relationship and what their heart is yearning for.

Characters: Isagi Yoichi & Mikage Reo

(A/N: This is not the one-shot sequel I was speaking about in my last author’s notes in my finished fic, “Betrothed.” This is merely a one-shot fic depicting some of the missing scenes between Reo and Isagi’s stay in Hawaii during their staged honeymoon for the media. I wanted to expound on some missing scenes to show on how they gradually fall in love with each other as their days passed by in that lovely island. This is also inspired by one of vault tracks from Speak Now TV which is Electric Touch. For those readers who have not read Betrothed yet, if you want to get the gist of this story, I highly suggest for you to read Betrothed first then start reading this afterward. But you can also read this as a standalone fic if you want. It’s your choice to do so. So, without any further ado, here is this short finish fic dedicated to my fellow Reosagi shippers in the fandom. Hope that you enjoy this as much as I did when I wrote it. Lastly, I don’t own anything from this franchise except for this fic of mine. This wonderful manga belongs to Muneyuki Kaneshiro and Yusuke Nomura. And this lovely song belongs to Taylor Swift feat. Fall Out Boy).

Just breathe, just relax, it'll be okay

Just an hour 'til your car's in the driveway

Just the first time ever hangin' out with you tonight

I've got my money on things goin' badly

Got a history of stories ending sadly

Still hoping that the fire won't burn me

Just one time, just one time

Isagi tried to calm down his stuttering heart as he waited for Reo down in the hallway.

It wasn’t the first time that they stroll along the beautiful and picturesque views in Hawaii.

But this was the first time that they’re hanging out normally. Like without any preconceived notions of just throwing off the paparazzi or the other people around them for a show.

Was this considered as a date?

Isagi immediately shook his head. No. He shouldn’t get ahead of himself.

Just because Reo had asked him casually the other day if he’s free to hang out with him at the Hanalei Bay in Kauaʻi beach to have a picnic with him to watch the sunset doesn’t mean anything to him.

He shouldn’t put any meaning behind it.

Isagi knew that he’s threading on a dangerous line if he didn’t stop his heart from having these stubborn notions of something meaningful that’s been happening to the both of them.

‘Calm the fuck down Isagi and get your head out of the gutter you idiot.’ His mind scoffed at him and he was tempted to bang his head against the wall just to make his brain shut up sometimes.

His breath hitched inside his throat and his heart leapt wildly inside his chest when his eyes finally spotted on Reo approaching his direction.

When their eyes met, Reo gave him one of those smiles that he’d usually see in the pages of society magazines but it never failed to take his breath away.

He found himself smiling back and giving out a simple wave of recognition.

Isagi ignored the way his heart would stubbornly cling into hope.

Clinging into a hopeful thought that their bogus relationship would end and turned out for real this time.

Isagi was in a clusterfuck of a mess when it came to Reo.

But he found himself being pulled into his orbit foolishly and he couldn’t rein his stubborn heart this time.

All I know is this could either break my heart or bring it back to life

Got a feelin' your electric touch could fill this ghost town up with life

And I want you now, wanna need you forever

In the heat of your electric touch, mmm

A soft moan escaped from Isagi’s lips as Reo’s mouth latched into one of his sensitive nubs and gave it kitten licks while he bounced on his lap like a spinning top, his eyes rolling back and drool slipping out at the side of his mouth in pleasure as the other’s throbbing cock reached deeply into him and hit all the right places inside of him.

“Ngh… Ah… Reo… Reo…! ‘S good…! I-I can’t…” Isagi mewled helplessly as his hands gripped his shoulder tightly for leverage and support as Reo reciprocated his actions enthusiastically and grinded harder in return, making his legs trembled like a leaf and his body shivered deliciously against him.

“You can my dear husband. You’ve taken it before…” Reo whispered seductively as he held his hips in a vice like grip and controlled his motions, making him jumped on his cock faster and harder in return which made the other cry out in pleasure. His amethyst irises gleamed lasciviously and let his tongue took a hungry swipe at his torso.

The movie was still on the television and continuously played on the background but the sounds that were coming out from it were drowned out by the salacious moans and erotic noises that were coming out from their mouths with the loud creaking of the bed against their wild movements on the mattress.

What should be a simple movie night between the two of them to pass the time inside their room turned into a wild night of carnal embrace as it started out as a simple brushed of their hands together at getting popcorn inside the bowl or how their legs scraped innocently with one another when they moved on the sofa because of the cramped space between the two of them.

No words were spoken between the two of them as they let their traitorous bodies communicate with one another, getting pulled into a magnetic haze and slotting their lips perfectly with each other like pieces of a missing puzzle.

Isagi knew that they he shouldn’t continue this kind of set up with Reo but with a just a simple gaze into his lustrous orchid irises alone, his resolve would crumble down and knees weak like a jelly.

Despite their animosity with one another, Reo continued to awaken something within him that left his mind and heart in a chaotic mess and completely enamored by the charming yet enigmatic man beneath him.

Reo’s touches and passionate kisses sent an electrifying sensation inside his veins and made his body trembled like a leaf against his arms. He was at the mercy of the young heir and he let him toy with his body as he pleases because he was on the receiving end of the sinful yet delicious pleasure and ecstasy which turned him into a whimpering mess of a paramour on top of him.

“Ah! Ah! Ah! If we keep going like this…. I’m gonna…!” Isagi moaned out loudly as the other hit his sweet spot and abused it repeatedly which made his eyes rolled back and drool cascaded down from the underside of his lips.

“Gonna what baby hmmm?” Reo asked in a sultry voice as his mouth busied itself on showering every inch of his skin with his fiery kisses while Isagi couldn’t stop his body from riding him like he was in a horse race even if he was already reaching his limit.

“I’m gonna come Reo…! Ngh… Wanna come please…! You’re just too big I c-can’t…!” Isagi whined needily, tears of pleasure streaming down his cheeks as a helpless mewl escaped his lips when he suddenly reached his peak and came untouched on top of him, splashing their chests with the hot streaks of his cum.

Reo licked his lips as some streaks of his cum landed on his mouth to which Isagi could only stared down on him dazedly, his cheeks flushed and weak moans slipping past his lips as Reo continued to grind down harder underneath him while he chased his own release.

However, the next few seconds came out in a blur as Reo suddenly flipped their positions on the bed and Isagi found himself being pinned down on the mattress by the other who was now situated on top him.

“Now, you’d be a docile and kind husband to me if you will let me come right? I haven’t even come yet so I hope that you’ll be kind enough to let me…” Reo whispered seductively as he licked at the shell of his ear which made the other groan out in delight and anticipation.

“F-fuck… R-reo… Please… Slow down… Ngh…” Isagi gasped lightly as Reo pulled away suddenly before slamming back into him ferociously that had Isagi screaming and keening out in pleasure and ecstasy.

“Fuck Isagi. You feel good around me! Like you’re made to take my cock! If you can look at yourself right now…!” Reo chuckled lowly only to be interrupted by a series of moans as his walls clenched around him and feeling the other’s nails raking down on his back which sent a delicious sensation across his spine.

“There! Right there please! Reo! God! Harder! Ah! Ah! Ah!” Isagi mewled like a helpless kitten beneath him as Reo continued to plow him on the mattress with avid ferocity that had the bed shaking back and forth.

“Fuck I’m gonna…!” Reo cursed out under his breath as he could feel his impending release and his body almost reaching at his limit.

“Fuck! Yes! Reo inside please! Inside! Wanna let you fill me up until I’m full! Fuck! Feels good! Don’t stop please!” Isagi babbled incoherently as his entire being operated on need and want, moaning and mewling beneath him like a bitch in heat.

With a loud moan leaving his lips, Reo reached his climax and spilled everything inside of him, painting his walls white with the hot splashes of his cum until it dripped down on his legs slowly.

A weak moan left Isagi’s lips as he felt full of being filled up to his brim instantaneously, his grip loosened on Reo’s back as he let the other fell of top of him, breathing raggedly against his neck. He could feel the loud beating of their hearts inside their chests.

For a moment, nothing can be heard except for their heavy breathing until a light gasp slipped past Isagi’s lips as he felt Reo nipping on the crook of his neck which was still sensitive from their activities.

“Reo… W-what are you d-doing…?” It came out as a groan when he felt Reo’s hand started to roam on his body once again.

“Hmm? What does it look like my dear husband? If you don’t me to continue then tell me to stop.” Reo replied huskily as his face was a few inches away from his until he leaned down and captured his lips in an invigorating kiss that set their nerves and bodies on fire once again.

Isagi wanted to tell him to stop this madness but his heart and body was always weak for him and unable to see reason.

He’d let him make love to him that night several times and let him claim his heart, body, and soul repeatedly in throes of passion and lust.

Reo was his sweetest downfall in a lifetime.

I've been left in the rain lost and pining

I'm tryin' hard not to look like I'm trying

'Cause every time I tried hard for love, it fell apart (whoa)

I've gotten used to no one callin' my phone

I've grown accustomed to sleepin' alone

Still, I know that all it takes is to get it right

Just one time, just one time

His mauve irises looked over at the horizon beyond him as he sat quietly in a chair at their balcony.

Even in a moment like this, his body was used in waking up early in the morning due to his hectic lifestyle at work as the new CEO of their corporation.

Reo stared at the rising sun as it brought out a soft tinge of reddish hues across the sky and painted the ocean with a golden halo for a moment.

In a rare moment like this, he got to relax and stared peacefully at the beautiful scenery in front of him without dashing out of the door as if he was chasing his time to get into his office.

And…

…

His eyes drifted over at the bed which was covered slightly by the curtains but he could see the silhouette of his husband who was still in deep slumber with blanket covering only the lower part of his body and revealed his naked chest which was littered with faint love bites and marks that he made when they made love last night more than once that he lost count of how many times it was as they were going at it until the ungodly hours of the night.

He instantaneously looked away as his eyes settled on the sky above him. Reo didn’t want his gaze to linger for far too long because he knew that his traitorous body would react on its own and succumbed again to the swirling haze of want and desire for the other every time he saw his ravishing looks or when their gazes meet and how he could easily drown into the depths of his ocean blue eyes.

But could he say that they had made love last night when it was clear as a day that there were no feelings involved between the two of them and it was just a moment of weakness to indulge in their own pleasures amid the pressure of keeping up their façade of this marriage which was born out of necessity and convenience?

It had been so long since Reo had felt like this.

He wanted to take control of his emotions because he knew that it was only way he can squashed away these confusing feelings that were swirling and causing havoc inside of him.

He’s trying his very best not to fall without having a parachute because he knew that if he did and if no one was there to catch him, his heart will shatter into tiny, little pieces for the second time again.

Reo grew accustomed to being alone and with no one to greet into when he got home after a long, grueling day at work. Or no one talk into just because he wanted to…

…

And he didn’t want to be back to that world where he had fallen apart because he was so done with that.

He knew that it was difficult but he needed to reign his foolish heart in the cold reality of their situation and let his commonsense win because if he let his emotions prevailed him…

…Reo knew that he can’t let Isagi go or slipped away from his grasp ever again.

All I know is this could either break my heart or bring it back to life

Got a feelin' your electric touch could fill this ghost town up with life

And I want you now, wanna need you forever

In the heat of your electric touch

Scrolling down on the screen of his phone, Isagi read his newsfeed mindlessly as he was lying on the couch in silence.

He was inside their hotel room all alone upon waking up since Reo was not in there except for a simple text message on his phone that he had to hit the hotel’s gym on the 15th floor to do his usual routine of morning exercise.

Apparently, Reo didn’t wake him up as when he woke up from a deep slumber, it was already 10 in the morning.

Even though he was sore all over, he’d notice that he was freshly dressed in plain white clothes and the sheets were crisp and clean.

A small blush formed on his cheeks at the thought of Reo cleaning him after having several rounds of sex last night to which he received the brunt of it.

Isagi immediately shook his head as if he wanted to banish the thought away.

Suddenly he saw something on the screen of his phone that caught his attention.

“Meiji Takenoko No Sato Chocolate?” Isagi read out loud before an idea popped into his head which made him rose from the couch with a slight wince on his expression because his hips were still hurting like hell from last night. Damn. Reo didn’t hold back from fucking him voraciously last night.

He checked the calendar on his phone and there was a note on that day.

It’s Reo’s birthday today.

It shouldn’t bother him but the thought of not being able to give something to Reo on his special day made his heart twinge slightly at the thought.

“Well, it’s not like it matters because he’s rich and he can have all the good things he wants with just a swipe of his card.” He scoffed lightly to himself before he sighed and went back to the site of the convenience store again nearby.

He just stared at the object in front of him in silence before he decided to click on adding it to cart and proceeding to check it out.

Hopefully, he’d made the right decision and won’t embarrass himself in the measly present that he was about to give him later this day.

I was thinking just one time (just one time)

Maybe the stars align (just one time)

And maybe I call you mine

And you won't need space

Or string me along while you decide

And just one time (just one time)

Maybe the moment's right (the moment's right)

It's 8:05 and I see two headlights

The faint rustling sound of the footsteps coming from the doorway caught Isagi’s attention and snapped his head towards his direction to find out that Reo went inside, his hair was freshly damp from the gym showers that he hit on after his morning exercise.

“Oh, good morning Isagi. You’re finally awake. Have you eaten? We can ring the hotel staff to bring us some lunch here.” Reo greeted him as he made his way towards his direction.

“We can do that. I’ve only had some coffee earlier anyway.” Isagi replied before he paused, a look of hesitation crossing his features.

Reo took noticed of this and looked at him expectantly.

“Well got something to say Isagi-kun?” He couldn’t help but to ask teasingly, seeing his hesitance and confoundment cute and amusing.

“Stop that…” Isagi grumbled under his breath, looking away as he brought out something from the under the table and handed something to him.

“Hmm?” Reo blinked a few times before he took the offered object on his hands and stared at it in silence.

“Don’t get ahead of yourself. It’s just that it’s your birthday today and I don’t know what else to give you. But I did remember that you love bamboo shoot village chocolates so I decided to just give it to you as a birthday gift… So yeah, happy birthday I guess...” Isagi muttered.

“How did you know that it was my favorite?” Reo asked, staring back and forth from Isagi to the box of Meiji’s bamboo shoot village chocolates on his hands in wonder.

“That’s because you’re my husband.” Isagi looked at him as if he asked him a nonsense question. “Even if we just got married out of necessity and will divorce soon, it’s only prudent to still getting to know the person you’re marrying into.” He added.

Reo grew silent for a moment, there was look on his face that Isagi couldn’t decipher. It was one of those rare times that he had a hard time guessing what’s on his mind from his expressions alone as Reo can be a closed off person even though he was always an exuberant, outspoken, and charming person most of the time.

Unable to withstand the growing silence between the two of them, Isagi finally stood up and was about to leave him in peace.

“Oh well, would you want me to ring the hotel staff from the phone to or—.”

His words died in his throat as Reo suddenly caught his wrist and spun him around, pulling him against his chest and capturing his lips in a captivating kiss which made his pulse skyrocketed and heart leapt wildly inside his chest.

“R-reo…” He murmured against his lips and gasped lightly as Reo’s arms encircled around his waist firmly as if he never wanted to let him go.

Reo was about to deepen their shared kiss before Isagi pulled away abruptly to catch his breath and glared at him weakly, his face flushed and eyes glittering with unshed befuddlement and anticipation at the same time.

“Hmm? You did say that it was my birthday, right? But you didn’t ask me yet on what I really want for my birthday.” Reo whispered seductively, his hot breaths fanning against his skin which sent a shiver across his spine.

“W-well what do you r-really want for your birthday t-today?” Isagi inwardly cursed at himself for stammering like a lovesick idiot in front of him.

“I want to have a taste of my dear husband for today. Would you allow that? I’m curious about that sweetness you portrayed earlier.” Reo replied huskily as his mouth descended on the pale column of his throat and let his tongue lick at the sensitive skin which made Isagi moaned out softly under his breath.

“Ah fuck… Reo… if you keep doing that… I can’t refuse you…” Isagi groaned out.

“Why? Do you want to refuse and tell me to stop? You can’t be that cruel to your own husband on the day of his birthday, right?” Reo mumbled hotly against his skin.

The addicting sensation crawled into his veins and Isagi found himself leaning closer and removing any gap between the two of them as his body reacted instinctively and encouraged Reo’s mouth to shower his neck with heated kisses and love bites, his hands entwining themselves around his neck.

“Fuck you Reo… You need to give me a massage later for this…” Isagi breathed out before a surprise moan erupted from his lips when Reo suddenly carried him from the ground going to the bathroom.

“With much pleasure.” Reo laughed huskily as he brought him inside the bathroom and place him in the tub gently. He didn’t waste his time as he discarded his own clothes and joined him on the tub, turning on the faucet to let some water in.

A scintillating sensation shot right through him when Reo claimed his lips once again in an invigorating kiss, tugging on his shirt idly while he slowly undoes his pajamas from his legs.

Isagi’s mind was in a limbo and he found himself naked later with Reo on top of him in a tub full of water and showering his body with enthusiastic kisses and eager caresses of his hands in every fiber of his being which left a trail of fire underneath his skin.

“Ngh… Ah… Reo…” Isagi moaned out softly as he felt his fingers making its way to his entrance which was still sensitive because of the numerous times they had sex last night.

“Hmm? Still soft and easily slipped in… You must be excited to be filled once again my dear husband.” Reo chuckled lowly under his breath.

“S-shut up you asshole…” It came out as a breathy moan which made Isagi burned out in mortification and Reo grinning wickedly at him.

“You’re saying something?” Reo asked silkily before he pulled his fingers out and situated himself on top of him, taking ahold of his legs and wrapping it securely around his waist and gave a one, swift thrust which stole Isagi’s breath and made them both groaned out in unison.

“Fuck! God! ‘S too big… Ngh… That feels good…!” Isagi mewled helplessly beneath him as Reo started to thrust harder and faster in return.

“You’re still fucking tight… No matter how many times we did it Isagi… You’re still tight… Fucking hell… God! You feel good around me!” Reo groaned out loudly as he couldn’t stop his body as if it was having a mind on its own and was operating on instinct and lust, pistoning Isagi’s insides with his voracious thrusts that made the water splashed in and out of the tub because of their wild movements.

“Reo fuck… Too much… Ah! Ah! Ah!” Tears of pleasure streamed down Isagi’s cheeks before Reo leaned down and licked the salty tears away from his face and finally reached his mouth and captured it in a wild kiss.

Isagi returned his kiss enthusiastically, panting and moaning against his mouth before he reached his peak and came untouched beneath him.

Reo continued to chase his own release and railed him recklessly on the tub before he moaned loudly into his mouth and reached his climax, painting his insides with his cum and cascaded like a waterfall between his legs.

“Fuck… I swear to God Reo if you want one more round, I’ll kick your ass.” Isagi moaned out weakly as he pulled away from his embrace and breathed heavily.

“I can assure you that there won’t be unless…” Reo trailed off suggestively before Isagi punched his chest weakly.

“Fuck off.” Isagi grumbled out without any heat to his words.

It made Reo laughed heartily and raised his arms placatingly. “I’m just kidding of course.”

Isagi just rolled his eyes playfully in return.

For a moment, no words were spoken between the two of them until Reo wrapped his arms around his waist and rested his head on the crook of his neck.

“Thank you for the Meiji Isagi. But most of all thank you for taking an effort for bringing something simple yet meaningful on my birthday. It’s been a while since I’ve got one of my favorite confectionaries handed out to me simply without going out of my way to just buy it…” He whispered softly against his ear.

It made his heart do an erratic flip flop inside his chest and a faint rosy hue coating his cheeks.

If Reo was always like this, how was he going to able to separate his logic and emotions when it came to him?

“You’re very much welcome my dear husband…” Isagi whispered back softly and carded his fingers through his damp locks.

They let themselves be ensconced in this moment where the reality stopped existing for them temporarily and let the world fell around them.

All I know is this could either break my heart or bring it back to life

Got a feelin' your electric touch (oh)

All I know is this could either break my heart or bring it back to life

Got a feelin' your electric touch could fill this ghost town up with life

And I want you now, wanna need you forever

In the heat of your electric touch, mmm

(A/N: When I first heard the song Electric Touch, it automatically made think of this ship especially in the Fall Out Boy’s part of the song since the lyrics really resonates with Reo’s thoughts and feelings towards Isagi at this fic. I should probably make a playlist for them in the future seeing that they have several theme songs already starting from my fic, “Betrothed.” Stay tuned for the one-shot sequel of Betrothed and short spin off sequel for Nagi which will come out soon. Lastly, I know that Reo’s birthday is a few days away but I’ve seen a cute official art of the boys celebrating Bachira and Reo’s birthday online so it also contributed to the inspiration of this fic aside from the song itself. Review and kudos are much appreciated).

[pixiemage]

If one of these is another TNAWY au I SWEAR TO SANTA PEARLA

Anyway have multiple

29, 39, 49, 59, 78.

I swear if I get even more songs from TNAWY AU and as I’ve said love how we semi talk through discord while in tumblr comments at the same time.

[For the Rancher Playlist Ask Game]

YOU PICKED FIVE?!?! You're INSANE! Do you WANT people to have to scroll through FIVE of my Rancher rambles????

...very well.

Track #29 - Stitch Me Up by Set It Off

Guess what? This one also inspired a TNaWY scene, a rather sweet and melancholy one that won't show up until about the halfway point :3 Hurray!

This is a song I've had rolling around in various playlists for ages, but THIS one got added to Ranchers for a few reasons. One, it reminds me of a Jimmy that's too fed up with being picked on by his friends, and of a Tango who's still not over Bdubs' betrayal. And then there are also the lines about needing stitches (Like a doll in lost and found, so mistreated, thrown around) and it makes me think of those crossover fics where Jimmy has been turned into a toy or ragdoll and he needs literal stitches to repair himself. But to pick some lyrics:

Are you the one to fix me up, patching up the work they done? Try and sew me So thread the needle, tie it off, teach me how to trust someone Really hoping that you stay That you never walk away (...and later...) Really hoping that I stay I could never walk away

Track #39 - Eyes Wide Open by Gotye

If I remember correctly, I THIIIINK that Hybbat suggested this one to me way back when, but I might be wrong! All I know is it resonated with me and it ended up on the playlist :3

This one's a bit tricker because I like it almost more for the vibe and a few stray lines than anything else, but it's still a quality song. And if I have to pick a section, this bit does remind me of the canary's curse and everyone ignoring the warning it represents:

And only a few ever worried While the signs were clear, they had no idea You just get used to livin' in fear Or give up, when you can't even picture your future

Track #49 - Danger To Myself by The Unlikely Candidates

This is ONE HUNDRED PERCENT a Tango song, perhaps especially before a point where he's come to accept that Jimmy cares about him as much as he cares about Jimmy. It's also, I imagine, around the time of the fire at the ranch in some stories, where he's worried his rage will scare Jimmy off. But it's SO good, the kind of sing I like to dance to, and the lyrics are great. This chunk in particular feels very much like a reference to B.E.S.T. and any lack of trust that followed Tango from that game to here:

'Cause I was founded In a bed of liars Walking the streets someone before me set on fire And after all this This love I borrowed I'm waiting on the day you don't want me tomorrow And I, I don't know why you love me I'm a danger to myself

Track #59 - Feeling Mean by Ben Bostick

I'll admit, I stole this one straight out of a Minecraft Manhunt.

This is ALSO a Tango song - you're on a roll lol - and it's very much meant to be a mix of Tango's rage after the burning of the ranch, and him plotting the rise of Rancher's Revenge. But this bit in particular is the line that resonates most with Tango post-fire in my opinion:

I'm feeling mean, I'm feeling mean The meanest hunk of meat that anyone's ever seen Get out of the way of the hurricane or there's a heavy price to pay Tonight I'm feeling mean, I'm feeling mean

Track #78 - Oh Yeah, You Gonna Cry? by Lovejoy

OH BOY LOVEJOY! :D Also the last song on the playlist, nice pick, nice pick lol. Most recent addition. Lovely.

So THIS one is - hah - okay listen. I love Scott as much as the next person, and I LOVE Flower Ranchers. That being said. Have y'all READ Trust Life??? This song ABSOLUTELY gives me Trust Life vibes, with some lines feeling like Tango, and some lines feeling like Scott. It's GLORIOUS and I've played out a CMV in my head just listening to this song before lol. So - god how do I even pick a line from this - uhhh...oh! Here! The chorus! Because honestly, this could be EITHER of them depending on the chapter!

Well, now, now, you need to calm down What good's this energy? (It's no good!) When you devote it to me Why not be a little more friendly? Now, now, you need to calm down Does she still think of me? Say my name in her sleep? I thought you knew her better than me

ARE YOU HAPPY???

[skittlewaffle]

I WROTE A FIC I WROTE A FIC I WROTE A FIC GO READ IT GO GO GO

https://archiveofourown.org/works/41433417

[beepboop358]

A Prom in S4 Theory & Music Coding Predictions

Some leaked set pics indicate that there MAY BE a junior/senior prom at Hawkins High, which they are calling the "Lover's Ball". It's unclear if this prom will be included on screen, or if it will just be mentioned as an event coming up at Hawkins High because this flyer could just extra set decor. Regardless if the prom happens on screen or not, there will probably be some tension about 'who's asking who' to the prom that we will see in s4. Given that this picture was just leaked a few weeks ago, it probably falls closer to the end of the season sequentially.

Having a big school dance in s4 is suspiciously close to how they had the Snowball scene in s2. This would certainly follow the even/odd season patterns, (and actually add to the list of the patterns), which kind of makes me think we will see this prom on screen, or at the very least it will be mentioned in the course of the season.

The Duffer Brothers love Steven King and reference his work and especially 'IT' a lot in the show, but they haven't done anything with Carrie yet so maybe we will get a Carrie moment this season at the prom...

Carrie was on the video store fridays movie inspiration board for ST4.

At the "Lover's Ball", there will be definitely be some music coding relating to Byler. Since music coding is kind of a key thing in the show, I've been rifling through 80's songs to try and find some that may fit with s4's themes/character storylines (and I may do a seperate post about that later), but for this post I'm just gonna focus on what they might use at the prom for relating to Byler.

Since the season is most likely going to take place in 1986, I only selected songs that had a compatible release year so it would be historically accurate. (these songs would also be great for a byler playlist!)

Some strong contenders for the songs that might play at the prom to reference Mike and Will's relationship could be:

"True Colors" by Cyndi Lauper (1986)

This song is honestly too good of an option for them not to use. I'm reallllyyy crossing my fingers for this one.

It's hard to take courage In a world full of people You can lose sight of it all And the darkness inside you Can make you feel so small

"And I see your true colors Shining through I see your true colors And that's why I love you So don't be afraid (don't be afraid) To let them show your true colors True colors are beautiful (you're beautiful, oh) Like a rainbow Oh oh oh oh oh like a rainbow"

If this world makes you crazy And you've taken all you can bear You call me up Because you know I'll be there

"Heaven" by Bryan Adams (1984)

This first verse is literally just the story of Byler... 😭 The rest of the song applies but that verse verse is just sooooo accurate. (I'm crossing my fingers for this one too)

"Oh thinkin' about all our younger years There was only you and me We were young and wild and free Now nothing can take you away from me We've been down that road before But that's over now You keep me comin' back for more

Baby you're all that I want When you're lyin' here in my arms I'm findin' it hard to believe We're in heaven And love is all that I need And I found it there in your heart Isn't too hard to see We're in heaven

Oh once in your life you find someone Who will turn your world around Bring you up when you're feelin' down Yeah nothin' can change what you mean to me Oh there's lots that I could say But just hold me now 'Cause our love will light the way"

"Take My Breath Away" by Berlin (1986)

This song is on Will's Spotify playlist, and I thought it could also be used at the prom since it's a romantic song. I see it as an 'entrance to the prom' moment song, almost like a 'first look' - like the Mike and El moment at the snowball when she first walks in, but with Mike and Will this time. I think the lyrics clearly hint to this kind of 'first look' moment as well.

"Watchin' every motion in my foolish lover's game On this endless ocean, finally lovers know no shame Turning and returning to some secret place inside Watchin' in slow motion as you turn around and say...take my breath away"

Watchin' every motion in this foolish lover's game Haunted by the notion, somewhere there's a love in flames Turning and returning to some secret place inside Watchin' in slow motion as you turn my way and say...take my breath away"

"In The Air Tonight" by Phil Collins (1981)

This song was originally meant to be included in the snowball scene from s2, but it ultimately was not used and "Every Breath You Take" was used for this scene instead. Since it was intended to be a part of the s2 dance, that's why I think it may be used at the prom this season. (you can read the scripts on 8flix)

——— I forgot to include this explanation originally BUT, I think this song might be used to show some anger/resentment between the two, and to show a decent amount of tension, depending on their development this season. Like maybe Mike is kind of leading Will on in private by continuing to initiate intimate scenes between them, but in public Mike is still trying to put on his “straight boy act” and kind of being a jackass about it, and this song could be used to show the tension between them that has caused.

"And I've been waiting for this moment, for all my life, (Oh lord)

Well, I was there and I saw what you did I saw it with my own two eyes So you can wipe off that grin, I know where you've been It's all been a pack of lies.

Well I remember, I remember don't worry How could I ever forget It's the first time, the last time we ever met But I know the reason why you keep this silence up

No you don't fool me The hurt doesn't show, but the pain still grows It's no stranger to you and me"

"In Your Eyes" by Peter Gabriel (1986)

Some of the lyrics in this song just SCREAMS byler, just look at the 1st, 2nd and 4th paragraphs. I would be suprised if they didn't use this song in either s4/s5.

Love, I get so lost sometimes Days pass and this emptiness fills my heart When I want to run away I drive off in my car But whichever way I go I come back to the place you are

All my instincts, they return The grand facade, so soon will burn Without a noise, without my pride I reach out from the inside

In your eyes The light, the heat (in your eyes) I am complete (in your eyes) I see the doorway (in your eyes) To a thousand churches (in your eyes) The resolution (in your eyes) Of all the fruitless searches (in your eyes)

Love, I don't like to see so much pain So much wasted and this moment keeps slipping away I get so tired working so hard for our survival I look to the time with you to keep me awake and alive

"Heroes" by David Bowie (1975)

David Bowie was bisexual. A cover of his song “Heroes” is used in the show twice already, sung by Peter Gabriel. The song plays when they pull Will's fake body out of the water in season one and Mike cries in his Mom's arms, with some very queer-coded lyrics in the background, and after Hopper's letter in s3 (which is very Byler-centric)

"I will be king. And you, you will be queen 'Cause we're lovers, and that is a fact. Yes, we're lovers, and that is that. Though nothing will keep us together. We could steal time just for one day We can be heroes forever and ever. What d'you say? I, I wish I could swim, like dolphins, like dolphins could swim I, I can remember (I remember) Standing by the wall (By the wall) And the guns shot above our heads (Over our heads) And we kissed as though nothing could fall (Nothing could fall) And the shame was on the other side. Oh, we can beat them forever and ever. Then we could be heroes just for one day We're nothing, and nothing will help us Maybe we're lying, then you better not stay But we could be safer just for one day"

I just thought the above songs might be some highly likely possibilities given that they fit the year of the s4 and also make references to not only love, but the idea of hiding, pain, shame, longing, etc., and can make some (partially stretching here) references to other things in the show such as:

RAINBOWS and TRUE COLORS, SHINING THROUGH (rainbows imagery is always associated with Mike & Will in the show and a is symbol of lgbtq+ pride, True Colors shining through = who you really are on the inside finally coming out)

IF THIS WORLD MAKES YOU CRAZY ("crazy together", "only love makes you that crazy" and references the "world" motif in the show)

YOUNGER YEARS, ONLY YOU AND ME, YOUNG, WILD AND FREE (references "not wanting things to change" and wanting "to make things go how they were" part in Hopper's letter, and the "But we're not kids anymore" comment during the Byler fight)

ENDLESS OCEAN and SWIM, LIKE DOLPHINS (references water's significance in the show)

FLAMES (Will in front of the burning car in s4 teaser?)

LIES and LYING (Mike lying to El about how he feels)

INSTINCTS RETURNING, FACADES BURNING, WITHOUT MY PRIDE, I REACH OUT FROM THE INSIDE (Mike's feelings for Will are his instincts, the facade is the act he put on in s3 to seem straight, burning could reference Will & fire, and I think the last 2 lines of that 2nd verse reference vulnerability- perhaps in an apology/confession)

I GET SO LOST (confusion about his sexuality, feeling lost without the other) and SO MUCH WASTED TIME (known each other since kindergarten but were unaware the other felt the same way/was dealing with same things, they could have been even closer)

KINGS and QUEENS (the d&d game mike wrote where he has king Tristan give him a medal in s1)

STEALING TIME (references "turning back the clock, to make things go how they were" part in Hopper's letter and the time theme in s4 and time is central to the s4 plot)

AND WE KISS - AND THE SHAME (references the shame they both feel about being gay since it was so stigmatized in the 80's)

Byler @ Prom Possibilities:

If Mike and Will did dance together at the prom, they will probably get bullied because they live in a small conservative town. They will probably either run out, upset, or Eleven will step in to protect them which could lead to the Carrie moment.

Or Mike and Will will not dance together in the actual dance room, but instead sneak off to somewhere else in the school and have a private Byler dance moment where they can't be teased and it's just them together.

OR Mike and Will are still acting weird at this point in the season because neither of them is communicating what needs to be said out of fear, or one of them has confessed or done something to indicate how they feel, but the other hasn’t so everything is weird between them. There would be lots of tension from this and we would get lots of longing looks and adoring moments between the two of them from the sidelines. (I think this one is the most likely)

[ethvn-torchio]

Mon Cala Nights | Anidala

A Prequel To I’m Feelin’ You

Summary: Tonight, they could take their time. Tonight, they weren't General Skywalker and Senator Amidala - they were just Anakin and Padmé.

Warnings: Smut, sub!Ani, dom!Padmé, an eensy weensy bit of angst(?)

authors note: aisjdhf this fic was literally inspired by this gif so uH <3

"I've missed this, Ani," Padmé whispers.

Anakin nods. "I know what you mean, Padmé. It's been torture being around you and having to pretend like we're...friends," he spits out the last word as if it's something distasteful.

"I'm here now. We're here together." She assures him, cupping his cheek. "I've missed you."

Anakin rests his forehead against hers, letting out an audible sigh. "I know. I’ve missed you too."

"Maybe one day..." she closes her eyes. "Maybe one day we can be more than just...stolen moments." she trails off.

Anakin sucks in a deep breath. "Soon, Angel. Someday we won't have to hide..." he assures her, pressing his forehead to hers. "Someday..."

"With the way this war is going, I don't think that'll ever happen." Padmé whispers, almost inaudibly.

She pulls back and takes him in, once again, staring into those blue eyes that pierce her very soul. He looks so weary, exhausted. There is nothing there, in those brilliant blue eyes, not even the light he's grown accustomed to seeing in them...nothing.

"Maybe when everything is over, we can...be together," he says, frowning. "I'm not saying maybe everything is going to be okay, I'm saying, maybe we can do more than...this."

She grins despite herself. "So you're saying being in my bedroom isn't enough for you?"

He laughs. "Don't worry, it is. Trust me."

"I always have." she replies. She kisses him gently on the lips.

Their gentle kisses steadily grow more fervent, and before they both know his shirt is off and she's straddling him.

"Padmé... could you- would you-" he struggles to ask.

She simply smiles at him, running her fingers through his silky hair.

"These walls aren't that thick, Ani, so I hope you're quiet," Padmé says. "If you get too loud, I'll stop." She informs him.

Anakin nods frantically. "Okay. Yes, fuck-"

She runs her hands across his sculpted abdomen, tracing a fairly fresh scar, making his breath hitch. 

She missed this, missed the feeling of his skin. It's been at least a few months since she's been able to get any real alone time with Anakin. Her last night with him was a rushed, adrenaline-filled night under the stars; a few stolen moments amongst war and soldiers and secrets. 

“What’s this from?” she inquires absentmindedly.

He pauses, trying to recall. “I- ah, Trandosha, maybe?”

Tonight, they could take their time. Tonight, they weren't General Skywalker and Senator Amidala - they were just Anakin and Padmé.

"Let me see you," Padmé whispers, an almost desperate edge to her voice.

"Yes." He lifts his hips and she slides her hand under the waistband of his pants and pushes them to his knees. He kicks them off impatiently, leaving him bare before her.

"Good boy, Ani." She murmurs appreciatively, lowering her head to him.

Only a few months ago, she felt Anakin's lips on her, once again. It was a fleeting thing, stolen by time and circumstance. But now, here he is, and she's taking her time. 

She felt the need to study him as though she had never seen a man naked before. "So perfect. My Ani," she whispers reverently, running her hands along his torso, his strong thighs, his perfectly hard cock.

"Padmé…" he whines.

"Shh…" Padmé tells him, closing her fingers around his hard cock and gripping him. "Let's see how long you can last without making noise."

She drops to her knees before him and takes him into her mouth. Her tongue flicks across the head, the tight underside of his cock.  She runs her hands along his thighs. She has a new appreciation for his body laterally, the way his muscles move beneath his skin, the way his legs look strong and graceful.

She draws him in, her hands gently guiding him into her mouth, to her throat. She had always enjoyed this, the feeling of having him in her mouth, the slide of his skin over her tongue.

Anakin hisses. "Padmé-!"

 She knew he would make some sort of noise at some point - Anakin was a vocal person in the bedroom.

"Ah, ah, Ani. Remember the rules." Padmé tuts.

Anakin whines at the loss of contact. "Wait, no!" He almost shouts. "Please, don't stop."

"Ani, Ani. I can't help you if you're just going to keep making noise," Padmé taunts him as hands passively rest on either of his thighs. 

"Stop teasing me, Padmé." He complains, thrusting his hips forward in an effort to regain contact.

"Shh…" She rises and presses her lips to his.

His mouth is desperate under hers. His tongue slides against hers, his body moving to press himself against her. 

They part, and she stares at him. Her ringlets of hair are beginning to work out of the neat bun on the back of her head. She reaches up, and removes the hair tie, allowing her hair to fall down around her face, turning the style from prim to disheveled.

Anakin smirks, appreciating the change in her. "I love the way your hair looks when it's down,"

She kisses him again, feeling Anakin tug at the clasp on her bra. She breaks off their kiss while he continues to tug on her bra, not wanting to lose contact for a moment.

She reaches up and unclasps the bra, allowing it to fall away, and feels Anakin's hands immediately dive into her breasts. His fingers trace circles around her nipples, pulling lightly. "Yes, Ani. Good boy," Padmé moans. 

His hands cup her breasts again, pulling them together, pinching lightly.

Padmé moans into his mouth, feeling his tongue in her mouth again, his hands squeezing again, rolling her nipples between his fingers.

Anakin's hands were on her breasts, on her sensitive nipples, his tongue in her mouth. 

This was what she had missed. This was what she wanted. They had something special, something that made them both feel alive.

She groans softly, shifting so that the only thing between her and Anakin's cock was her underwear. She wanted him inside of her. Knowingly, he reaches down and grabs her underwear, pulling it off of her. 

"Please, Padmé, will you ride me?" He asks.

She nods. "Of course," She straddles him, and sinks down, he groans in appreciation. She hisses for a moment, it always felt so good, him filling her with his girth. Her hands run over his chest again, tugging lightly on his nipples.

"Padmé-!" He gasps.

She quiets him with a kiss, setting a quick pace, pushing herself down against his cock, feeling him pulse against her walls, relishing in the fullness.

One of her hands goes to softly rest on his stomach, feeling his muscles tense as he thrusts slightly, and deeply into her.

Padmé runs her hands along his chest, feeling his muscles, feeling his heartbeat, runs her hands over the skin on his wonderfully defined chest. She stops at his abdomen, leaning down to kiss him once again. She feels herself tightening around him, moving her hips to ride him. He moves his hips up, pushing himself as deep inside of her as possible, then pressing himself back down.

Padmé shudders. She grips his forearms, burying her head against his neck. Her hips rock forward and back, sped up on every forward thrust. She can feel herself on the edge, Anakin's cock rubbing along her walls.

She can feel her orgasm beginning, feels her muscles tighten, feels the pleasure rushing through her.

"Don't stop, Padmé. Don't stop, don't stop," he begs.

For every one of his pleas, his thrusts become more determined, his hips moving towards her, pushing himself inside her. He moans quietly, fingers digging into her flesh. She lets go, her back arched, moving up and down along his body. She thrusts against him, feeling him fill her more than she had thought possible. Her hips move forward, pushing herself against him, feeling the skin on his stomach against her, feeling the head of his cock hit her g- spot.

His hands are on her hips, her back is arched, her hair is falling around her face.

"Padmé, I'm gonna-"

He shudders, a wordless cry escaping his lips as he empties himself inside her.

Padmé curses, feeling her own orgasm approaching, and with it, she feels herself clamp around him, milking his cock, grinding herself against him.

When she thinks she can move, she rolls off of him, laying so that she's facing him. His fingers trace along her cheek, combing through her hair.

"I don't want to fall asleep," she sighs. "We never have enough time together."

"I know," he whispers. "I love you."

"I love you too," she responds. "I'm sure it won't be too long until we see eachother again..."

"I don't think I have to be back until later in the morning. Maybe we can sleep in," he suggests.

"Or...we can go to sleep now and have an early morning," she smirks.

He snickers. "I was just about to say that."

----------

a/n yeah idk I was trying to get a more like, different vibe for them than my x reader fics skdjjflsjdg like y'all know how they act in the movies ya feel

[kilesplaysthings]

guess who's made another ikemen playlist~

This time we doin ikevamp boys with classic (love) songs! :3

Napoleon: You're the Inspiration by Chicago (cheesy, i know, but Napo's kinda cheesy ngl lolololol)

You're the meaning in my life You're the inspiration You bring feeling to my life You're the inspiration Want to have you near me I want to have you hear me saying no one needs you more than I need you

Arthur: Fooled Around and Fell in Love by Elvin Bishop

I must've been through about a million girls I'd love 'em and I'd leave 'em alone I didn't care how much they cried, no sir Their tears left me cold as a stone

But then I fooled around and fell in love I fooled around and fell in love

Mozart: Go All the Way by Raspberries

I never knew how complete love could be 'Till she kissed me and said, baby Please, go all the way It feels so right (Feels so right) Being with you here tonight Please, go all the way Just hold me close Don't ever let me go

Leonardo: Time in a Bottle by Jim Croce

If I could save time in a bottle The first thing that I'd like to do Is to save everyday 'til eternity passes away Just to spend it with you

And if I could make days last forever And if words could make wishes come true I'd save everyday like a treasure and then Again and again I'd spend them with you

Vincent: I Want to Know What Love Is by Foreigner

In my life, there's been heartache and pain I don't know if I can face it again Can't stop now, I've traveled so far To change this lonely life

I wanna know what love is I want you to show me I wanna feel what love is I know you can show me

Theo: I'm Not in Love by 10cc

I'm not in love, so don't forget it It's just a silly phase I'm going through And just because I call you up Don't get me wrong Don't think you've got it made I'm not in love, I'm not in love

Isaac: Can't Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon

I can't fight this feeling any longer And yet I'm still afraid to let it flow What started out as friendship has grown stronger I only wish I had the strength to let it show

I tell myself that I can't hold out forever I said there is no reason for my fear 'Cause I feel so secure when we're together You give my life direction, you make everything so clear

And even as I wander, I'm keeping you in sight You're a candle in the window on a cold, dark winter's night And I'm getting closer than I ever thought I might

Jean: In Your Eyes by Peter Gabriel

Love, I get so lost sometimes Days pass and this emptiness fills my heart When I want to run away I drive off in my car But whichever way I go I come back to the place you are

All my instincts, they return The grand façade, so soon will burn Without a noise, without my pride I reach out from the inside

In your eyes; the light, the heat I am complete (in your eyes) I see the doorway To a thousand churches (in your eyes) The resolution Of all the fruitless searches

Dazai: The Chain by Fleetwood Mac (Dazai's route seems a bit dark and dramatic, so I feel like this song will fit the potential heartbreak his route could have)

Listen to the wind blow, down comes the night Running in the shadows, damn your love, damn your lies Break the silence, damn the dark, damn the light

And if you don't love me now You will never love me again I can still hear you saying You would never break the chain

Sebastian: Stand By Me by Ben E. King

When the night has come And the land is dark And the moon is the only light we'll see No, I won't be afraid Oh, I won't be afraid Just as long as you stand Stand by me

Comte St. Germain: Nights in White Satin by The Moody Blues (ooooh how I love this song!! I had to use this for him. it's so passionate like I feel his route will be~)

Nights in white satin Never reaching the end Letters I've written Never meaning to send Beauty I'd always missed With these eyes before Just what the truth is I can't say anymore 'Cause I love you Yes I love you Oh, how I love you

Shakespeare: Every Breath You Take by The Police (I mean..are you even surprised by this?? lol)

Every breath you take Every move you make Every bond you break Every step you take I'll be watching you

Every single day Every word you say Every game you play Every night you stay I'll be watching you

Charles: Hungry Eyes by Eric Carmen (idk if this is fitting or not, but I just felt this for him. Don't really know the three newer guys yet so we'll see!)

I've been meaning to tell you I've got this feelin' that won't subside I look at you and I fantasize You're mine tonight

Now, I've got you in my sights

With these hungry eyes One look at you and I can't disguise I've got hungry eyes I feel the magic between you and I

Faust: Addicted to Love by Robert Palmer (I really can't get a grasp on Faust yet, but this song is quite obsessive which seems fitting???)

Your lights are on, but you're not home Your will is not your own You're heart sweats and teeth grind Another kiss and you'll be mine

Whoa, you like to think that you're immune to the stuff, oh yeah It's closer to the truth to say you can't get enough You know you're gonna have to face it, you're addicted to love

Vlad: Don't Fear the Reaper by Blue Oyster Cult (Fun Fact: I came up with this playlist specifically to make this song for him!!)

All our times have come Here but now they're gone Seasons don't fear the reaper Nor do the wind, the sun or the rain We can be like they are

Come on, baby (don't fear the reaper) Baby, take my hand (don't fear the reaper) We'll be able to fly (don't fear the reaper) Baby, I'm your man

[crowdedimagines]

Who Is That? Part 2 (Harry Styles)

PART ONE

In the span of a week Harry and I go on two dates, our third taking place in a few hours. I’ve never moved so quickly with someone, but I’ve also never felt so comfortable with someone so quickly.

By the time I got up to my apartment I already had a text from Harry asking when he could see me again to take me out on a date. I immediately called Hannah to gush over what had happened. She seemed to be just as shocked as I was, especially being that I wasn’t exactly thrilled with him the last time she saw me.

Our first date, Harry took me out to eat. We only waited until the next day before we decided to meet up again. The more we got to talking the less we wanted to wait. Over dinner we were able to get to know each other a little better. Harry made me promise not to google him before the date. He found it refreshing to come across someone who didn’t know of his stardom. Instead he got to tell me all about it himself. I got to tease him about how this was the second time he was paying for my meal, but only our first date.

It took a while to meet up again, I officially started teaching. It took me a few days to get into the swing of things. In the meantime Harry and I texted and called to keep in touch.

Our second date was my idea. I decided it might be nice to go on a hike. I hadn’t been on any of the trails in Los Angeles in years, so I was glad to be back. Harry seemed to be thrilled with the idea as well. It was surprising how for someone who looks to be in shape, he becomes out of breath quite easily. We would talk the whole time, pausing to take in the view. Another successful date.

Hannah couldn’t help but freak out that things were going so well. She felt responsible since it was her idea for me to go up to him in the first place. She liked to gloat and tease me about giving a speech at our wedding. She also claimed that if she wasn’t godparent to at least one of our kids she would be pissed.

Tonight is Harry and I’s third date. He asked me when he dropped me off after our hike and he’s given me no details. We’ve talked and I ask him how to dress and what to bring, but he hasn’t budged on anything. Haven’t wavered even slightly on giving me some details.

“So, what are you wearing tonight?” Hannah asks, she watches me on facetime digging through my closet.

“I have no clue.” I huff, “I just don’t know what to expect. Like are we going out to dinner? Should I dress fancy? Or our last date was hiking so what if we’re like going rock climbing? I hate this.”

I sigh and lay back on my floor, piles of clothes around me.

“I may have heard from a little bird what you’re doing, so I would dress casual and cute.” Hannah admits, I can hear her laugh.

“You know what the date is?” I ask, sitting up to look at her proud smirk. She gives an evil nod in response. Of course they’re in cahoots.

“You ass! You’ve watched me sigh over my clothes for twenty minutes now. So what's the date?” I ask, picking up my phone from my desk to get a better look at the screen.

“I’m not telling! You will love it tho.”

“Okay, so casual and cute.” I reevaluate the items in my closet, trusting that she knows how I should dress appropriately. I settle on a short floral dress and a denim jacket. I put it on and turn back to Hannah for her opinion.

“It’s perfect!”

“Well that’s good because I think I just heard him at the door.” I reach for my phone and my purse, “Thanks!”

I yell a simple ‘coming’ so he knows that I heard him. I check myself in the mirror one more time by the door before deciding it’s good enough.

“Hi.” I swing open the door.

“Hello, love.” He leans in to press a kiss to my cheek. I smile leaning into his touch before turning around to lock my door behind me.

“Ready?” He asks, walking me towards the elevator.

“As ready as I can be for a mystery date.” I grin.

We go downstairs, Harry holds the passenger door open for me.

“I don’t get to drive?” I tease, sticking out my bottom lip in a pout.

“Not when you don’t know where we’re going.” He walks around to the other side and gets in. I’ve decided this car is my favorite when the top is down. It takes my hair with the wind, pulling it in every direction. I normally would hate that for going on a date, but it does the same thing to his curls.

We drive for a while and get on the freeway, telling me that we aren’t going anywhere very close.

“So, how was your first week?” Harry asks, referring to my first week with students.

“It was great. It was a long week, I’m glad it’s Friday, but it’s only confirmed that this is what I’ve always wanted to do. How about you, how was your week?”

I squint to look at him as I wait for an answer. The setting sun casting an orange haze over both our faces.

“I spent most of the week in the studio.” He glances over at me.

“Wait, but didn’t you tell me that you recently released an album?” I tuck my hair behind my ears.

“Yeah, I did. You can never spend too much time in the studio. Plus I was feelin a bit inspired.”

“Were you, now?” I tease, biting back a smile.

He simply nods, trying not to give in to many more words. He should know by now that I’m not going to let him off that easy.

“So, have you already written a song about me?”

He bites the inside of his cheek to avoid giving anything away. I don’t pull my eyes away from him, not wanting to miss an emotion that crosses his face. His cheeks heat up in the most adorable shade of pink.

“Wow.” I smirk, “If you keep that up, I’m going to become the narcissist in this relationship.”

“So we have a relationship now?” He decides to flip it on me now.

He’s successful in shutting me up for a minute. It’s true that we haven’t discussed exactly what we are. We are heavily flirty, but we haven’t even kissed, nothing more than the cheek at least.

“I must be pretty amazing then, huh?” I fill the void, bringing it back to me, wanting to know more about what he could be possibly writing about in the studio the past week.

“That’s where I have to agree.”

Silence fills the car, but it’s comfortable. We just listen to the radio, I watch the scenery pass by as we drive farther and farther from the city. I rest my arm on the top of the door, letting my hand float in the wind. Harry pulls me out of my trance when he reaches out to the radio.

“What?” I question as he turns down the radio. He has a funny look on his face as he does it.

“Nothing.” He shakes his head, “Just don’t always enjoy listening to my own music.”

“Shut up!” I grin, Harry has still been adamant about wanting to keep me in my little bubble of unawareness. He wanted us to find out things about each other organically so I haven’t been granted the pass to listen to his music yet, “This is meant to be.”

I reach to turn it back up again, letting it play loudly through the speakers. He rolls his eyes but a smile still graces his face, he gives up feigning annoyance. His arm resting across the bench of our chair drops to my shoulders to pull me a little closer. The wind was whipping my hair, but now due to his arm it’s settled. I lean in to rest my head against his shoulder, grateful for the small car. It makes the cuddling a little easier.

“So are you going to tell me where we’re going?” I ask, looking up at him.

“Where’s the fun in that?”

He continues down the freeway, the sky dimming as we go. We’re miles from the city, nothing is familiar anymore.

“Close your eyes.” He smiles.

“Why?” I squint sceptically.

“Because it’s more fun this way.” He manages to keep glancing between me and the road, “Humor me, love.”

“Fine.”

I squeeze my eyes shut and keep them shut, even as he slows. He makes several turns, we’re obviously far from the freeway now. The roads get quieter and quieter and eventually I can hear us turn on to a gravel road.

“I knew it, you are some creep.” I turn to face him, still keeping my eyes closed, “Taking me out into the middle of nowhere to kill me.”

“Shut up, would ya.” He nudges my shoulder, “You’re going to ruin the fun.”

I can hear the smile in his tone. He’s having way too much fun with this, but also it’s getting me excited for whatever he’s planned. It wouldn’t take much for him to win me over. He’s so charming, and we just click. I would be happy with picking up a pizza and talking. It doesn’t take much to fall for this boy.  

“Okay, you can open.” He’s finally parked. I picked up on outside noises of people talking and other cars.

I peek my eyes open to see where we’ve finally stopped. A drive in movie, Harry’s car parked a few rows back giving us the perfect view of the screen.

“Shut up.” I sit up, reluctantly leaving Harry’s grip so I can sit up a little more and look around.

“Harry.” I turn to look  at him, his eyes already on me, “This is perfect. Thank you.”

“C’mon, let’s go get some snacks.”

We walk over to the snack booth to get drinks and popcorn.

“I haven’t done one of these since I was a kid.” I laugh, taking a piece from the bag, “What movie are we seeing anyway?”

“Grease.” He grins, “A classic drive in movie.”

We go back to his car with our snacks just as the movie starts. The bench seating makes it so Harry can slide more to my side and avoid sitting under the steering wheel the whole time. Once we’re done snacking, we cuddle in a little more. Harry wraps his arm around my shoulder, I throw my legs over his lap. His free hand tracing patterns absentmindedly on my leg.

“I think I watched this movie a hundred times in year four.” He whispers into my hair.

“Really?” I grin thinking about ten year old Harry watching this movie on repeat.

“It was my favorite, I think I proper annoyed everyone else. Gemma hated me for it, I think she still hates this movie.”

I laugh pulling back to look at his smiling face. His eyes leave the screen once he notices I’m no longer watching.

“Whatcha starin at?” He teases.

“You.” I smirk, I focus my attention on his lips. He licks them once he notices my gaze. I tilt my head up towards his slightly, hinting. He smiles before leaning down to finally connect our lips. His hand leaves my leg to cup my cheek and deepen the kiss. I reach my hand to run through his curls, something I’ve been wanting to do since I saw him in the bar.

We both pull back to catch our breath after a few minutes of an intoxicating kiss. I peck his lips once more to get one last taste. Harry doesn’t seem to want it to be over either, pulling me close again. I laugh as he presses kisses down my jaw, trailing them down my chest. He trails them down between my breasts as far as the cut of my dress will allow.

“Harry.” I laugh, pulling on his hair lightly to grab his attention again.

“Hmm?” He finally pulls back to look at me again, he has a dopey grin. I’m still practically sitting in his lap, but I long to be closer. Needing to feel his lips burning against mine.

I push him down slowly, so his back is flat against the seat. I move to straddle his hips before I move down to join. I trace my hand along his jawline, letting the moment build this time. The tension is at an all time high, finally Harry loses patience and pulls me down to his lips again.

We continue the hot makeout for the rest of the movie. We manage to pry ourselves apart once Danny and Sandy are flying away in the car, the end of the movie. Harry clears his throat as he starts his car. I manage to stifle my laugh, Harry makes me feel like I’m a teenager again. Making out in a car, not wanting to go home just yet.

“How are we ever going to top this date?” I ask, my forehead resting against his neck. We’re just now pulling back on to the freeway, we’ve got a long way to go.

“I don’t really know.” He grins, “I’ve quite enjoyed this one.”

“I don’t want this night to end.” I reach my hand up to feel the breeze against it.

“It doesn’t have to.” His eyes flicker between me and the road, “My house is actually in Malibu. We practically have to drive right by it. We don’t have to! I didn’t mean to insinuate that we need to spend the night at my house.”

Harry being a proper gentleman, afraid he’s offended me. In reality it’s excited me.

“No, it sounds like fun.” I grin.

Harry continues driving, thankfully Malibu isn’t as far as driving all the way back into L.A. We both started non stop yawning about ten minutes ago, I think the tiring week and how late it is catches up with us. He enters the code to his gate and drives up the long driveway.

“Jesus, this is your house?” I laugh, looking around at his large Malibu home, “How’d you get this again?”

“Rockin and rollin and whatnot.” Harry laughs, putting on his best Danny Zuko impression to quote the movie. I throw my head back in laughter as he guides us to the front door, his hand resting on my lower back.

“You’re such a dork.” I whisper with a laugh.

“Oh really? I’m a dork? You seem to really like this dork.” He smirks, backing me into his house. I don’t even look around because I don’t want to break eye contact. Something about Harry’s eyes pull you in, enchanting you. Creating a wave of butterflies in my stomach.

“I do really like you.” I admit.

“Wow, she even said it without teasing.” He reaches forward to tuck a piece of hair behind my ear.

“I did.” I smile, “Believe it or not, I’m not always teasing you.”

“It’s okay if you were, surprisingly I like it when you tease me. You keep me on my toes.”

Harry shows me around slightly, a mini tour not going into it fully until we get to the master bedroom.

“Well this is my room.” He blushes, becoming his more shy side.

“It’s cute.” I smirk, “Do you have anything I could sleep in?”

“Yeah, of course.” He goes into his closet and comes back with a soft tee shirt and a pair of his boxers, “My bathrooms right through there.”

He gestures to the en suite. I go in to wash my face, brush my teeth with a spare toothbrush, and change. I decide the tee shirt is enough, it falls down far enough to feel comfortable. I fold my clothes and his boxers and leave them on the counter.

“You look way better in that than I do.” He admires from his bed, sitting up against his headboard.

“Tell me about it, stud.” I tease, throwing a Grease quote back at him. He lets out a loud laugh, not expecting the call back to the movie, little does he know I’ve been waiting to quote the movie since he did.

I walk over to his bed and pull back the covers to climb in, Harry sinks down next to me. I let out another loud yawn, Harry mimics it a second later. His warm arms wrap around my waist, pulling him closer to his side.

“Y/n?” Harry whispers after a few minutes of silence, checking to see if I’m still awake.

“Hmm?” I ask, struggling to keep my eyes open.

“Will you be my girlfriend?” His voice is just loud enough for me to hear it.

“Really?” I smile, turning around to see his face.

He nods, pressing a kiss to my temple.

“I get it if you think we’re moving too fast. If you don’t want the title that’s fine. I just want you to know that I’m not seeing anyone else, and I don’t want to pursue anyone else. I don’t want to play a game, I just want you.”

“I want you too, Harry.” I lightly trace my fingers over his jawline until I guide his face down to mine for a brief kiss.

“I would love to be your girlfriend.”

i hope you guys loved this part just as much as the first. xoxo

[thexhostess]

Choose 1 or more from the below categories in any combination for a story (Jax x reader.)

I thought it would be fun to combine only a small handful of inspiration. I chose these images/songs and scenes for the vibe they evoke, and think it will be fun to use them as mini writing prompts to see how the vibe of each one can work together to fuel inspiration for a Jax x reader.

Who are you waiting for a ride from?

Tom Ford and champagne. Bubbly before you hit the road with Jax or a deliberate gesture with THAT lip colour and a DGAF attitude to make him jealous?

A punishment? A reminder?..Or something else?

SOA Scene:

S1 E1: Jax driving down the road in the afternoon light.

S1 E2: Jax at a family/club dinner hosted by Gemma.

S1 E2: Jax hooking up with Croeater Emily to help the MC. Reader finds out and is jealous?

Song/Lyric: 

 ‘Evil, we've come to tell you that she's evil, most definitely Evil, ornery, scandalous and evil, most definitely. The tension, it's getting hotter. I'd like to hold her head underwater.’...'I love her so bad. But she treats me like shit.' - Sublime - Doin’ Time / (cover by Lana Del Rey.)

 ‘Down on the West coast, they got a sayin' "If you're not drinkin', then you're not playin'....‘I get this feeling like it all could happen, that's why I'm leaving, you for the moment, you for the moment, Boy Blue, yeah, you. - West Coast - Lana del Rey.

‘I got my red dress on tonight. Dancin' in the dark in the pale moonlight. Done my hair up real big, beauty queen style. High heels off, I'm feelin' alive.’ - Summertime Sadness - Lana del Rey.

[keichan]

Running Through the Night Tsukishima x fem!reader Part 2: Game Day

You and Tsukishima have been friends for as long as you two could remember. With a very unexpected confession, how will this affect you two?

Authors note: feelin a lil inspired!

Word count: 1202

Genre: college au, unrequited love, angst, best friends to lovers, fluff somewhere in there, mutual pining

Warnings: manga time skip!!! swearing!

masterlist・previous・next

“Morning, Y/N, Yamaguchi,” Tsukishima replies with a blank expression on his face. You sat down in front of him grinning from ear to ear. It made his heart sink farther. Was what Yamaguchi showed you really that funny? Is there something going on between you two? After all, you two have been rather close this last month or so. The frustration of his insecurities flooded his mind.

“Kei! How do you feel about the game tonight? Do you feel like you’re gonna kick some ass?” You reached across the table onto his wrist, snapping out of his thoughts abruptly.

“Tch, of course. We’re going to take it in straight sets, easily,” he rolled his eyes, praying that his face wasn’t red. 

You gave his wrist a slight squeeze before letting go. “Now that’s what I like to hear. I’m tired of you passing out on our movie nights! I miss your company!”

The three of you laughed over breakfast. Catching each other up on how the weeks have been with classes and part time jobs. 

“Have you guys talked to Hinata-kun lately? It seems that no one has heard from him in a while. He must really be getting caught up with training, huh?” you said as you took a sip of your coffee.

“Oh! I heard from Hinata a few days ago. They just started having more matches back to back so it’s been more difficult for him to line up the time zones for him to message us. He’s been so busy, but it isn’t like he’s ran out of energy yet,” Yamaguchi replied. 

“I still can’t believe that shrimpy actually went to the other side of the world like that. I knew he had guts, but it was unexpected, even from him,” Tsukishima added.

“Wow, Kei! I’m surprised you didn’t say something backhanded about Hinata-kun! It warms my heart to see that its all a facade and that you actually like him!” you chuckled placing your cup back on the table. 

“Shut up, Y/N” he scoffed before poking at his strawberry french toast.

You just laughed at him before continuing to the next topic of conversation.

“I’ll catch you guys later! Yamaguchi-kun, am I still coming over to help you finish your project tonight?” you turn to the freckled boy as you rose out of your chair! “Yes! I’ll let you know when you can head over! I’ll see you later Y/N!” he said with a slight wave. 

“Bye, Kei! Have a good game tonight!” With a simple smile you placed your bag on you shoulder and exited the building. 

Yamaguchi glanced at the blonde headed man to see a sour look on his face. Well…. More sour than average. “So, Tsukki… What’s up with you this morning?”

He couldn’t say what he was thinking. Tsukishima was never one to control you. If you want to go to one of your best friend’s homes to study then so be it. There was probably nothing going on regardless. It’s just pesky thoughts digging into him. Too deeply… 

A smirk grew on the middle blocker’s face.

“I’m just thinking about how I’m going to block all of those spikes tonight. All of these extra practices will have been well worth it.”

Yamaguchi sunk a little bit in his chair. Tsukki is never going to say it, is he?

Truth be told that confidence in the situation faded as soon as he arrived at the gymnasium. 

However that night Tsukishima was analytical as always and not falling a beat behind in the match. But  his blocks radiated tenacity. Pissing off the opposing team more than he normally would. He used the game to escape his feelings and to use it as a release. That consistency from the flow of the game eased him in a sense.

Being in love with you was, in the kindest way, very exhausting to him. 

“The Sendai Frogs take the first set of the game!”

Not like how volleyball can physically exert you mentally and physically. Everything in volleyball had a sense of strategy. By the end of the game you can figure out the opponents goal to score and get the last laugh by shutting them out with a block. Tricking them with a deflection. Et cetera. 

Like the other morning, he took off his glasses and went back to sleep to savor the moment with you. You woke him up after some time. Staring down at him kindly. 

“Kei, wake up, sleepy-head,” you stroked his hair as you whispered quietly. “I have to go get ready to go class. I need to leave in an hour, you can go sleep in my room if you’d like.” He placed his glasses on the bridge of his nose to meet your eyes. He was in the perfect scenario in some romance television show, but the look in your eyes wasn’t full of love and admiration. It was just you waking up to leave with no real desire to have him in your lap. To you it is just a thing are able to do with a friend. It’s comfortable and it doesn’t bring you a second thought. But moments like that over the years are his everything. 

Grabbing his hand to lead him through a crowd. Confiding in him with things that he knows that you would not tell anyone else. Seeing your face in the crowd at his games over the years. Hearing you cheer his name. Hugging him after all of his wins and losses. Falling asleep on his shoulder on the bus.

Those little pieces can bring him only so far, and then he runs out of steam. Again. And again. And again.

That morning he slowly moved off of you and yawned holding his arms over his head. With a slight laugh he said, “Thanks for being the best pillow!” You simply just smiled and replied, “That’s what best friends are for.”

When you walked to your bedroom to get changed, he left without a word.

“Wow! Middle blocker, Tsukishima Kei stuffs their ace! Taking the second set of the night! Amazing!”

The jealousy aspect of thinking of you with Yamaguchi has not been until recently. You two have been spending much more time together than you ever had over the time that you two had become friends. Hell, you’ve even blown off Tsukishima for Yamaguchi a few times in the last few weeks. Something is just off about it. Is it just after all of these years, between the two men, it’s Yamaguchi Tadashi that you’ve fallen for? Not Tsukishima Kei?

“And that’s a wrap! The Sendai Frogs take the game in straight sets! How amazing is that?”

In the locker room his teammates were laughing and boasting about the win.

“I’m so glad that coach made us put in all that extra time. Taking that game straight like that was amazing!” 

“Yeah, you’re right! Do you guys want to go out and celebrate tonight? It’s Saturday after all!”

The rest of the team mumbled in some sort of agreement. The bar scene isn’t Tsukishima’s preferred environment, but fuck it, they won a big game, right?

taglist: @pperapear @kapuching

[johannstutt413]

(requested by mathmaticalknight; continuing a series)

“Ya know, I dunno why I thought she mighta been jokin’ ‘bout the tuxes.” Croissant was blushing brightly as she was getting her measurements taken.

Mostima shrugged. “I don’t ever plan on getting married, but one of us was bound to tie the knot sooner or later, and Texas needs to find an officiant who will sign two certificates for her discreetly before it’s even an option for her. Where are your hanger-ons, by the way?”

“With Angelina, doing the same thing we are.” The Lupo had a Pocky stick in her mouth like a cigar, taking it all in. “I wouldn’t marry Sora, though. Exu maybe, but not Sora. She’s a good girl, but the whole ‘idol worship’ is a bit much.”

“She’d really want you to praise her that much?” The Sarkaz smirked.

Texas rolled her eyes. “Funny.”

“If any’n’s worshippin’ any’n, it ain’t Tex.” The Forte chuckled, but had to stop when the tape measure came ‘round again. “Hey, how tight this need ta be? Least gimme a lil’ room ta breathe ‘ere.”

“Don’t question my judgment, ‘less you wan’a punishment. I been wearin’ this look a lot longer than you.” Emperor bit back, making the last few notes he needed.

The three shared a glance. “You wear T-shirts over your feathers, though,” Mostima observed.

“Well, yeah, cuz’ I like the style,” he replied, “but if ya ever see me rockin’ my birthday suit, you’d know I’m just as fuckin’ classy. Got killer shoes to boot.”

“What, yer feet?” Croissant glanced down at the penguin’s openly-visible legs.

He nodded. “Damn straight. The boys will have your suit to ya within a couple days; when’s the big shindig, anyways?”

“Uh...I dunno.” The Forte shrugged. “We’re gonna sign the papers a week from now, but we don’t have money for a ceremony.”

“Well, then, imma have to do it myself.” Emperor opened his notes again and walked away, pen scribbling faster than before.

Texas shook her head. “That’s how you know you’re the Boss’s favorite, Cross.”

“Aw, shucks, I didn’ wan’im to pay fer it.” She sighed. “I’m gonna be payin’im back ferever at this rate.”

“Could be worse - if he died before forever came along, the debt would probably go right back to the company.” And with that, the Sankta left, the other two not too far behind, to meet Bison in the lobby.

Meanwhile, Magallan was moving at a more leisurely pace, listening to Angie recount the proposal story. “That sounds exactly like I imagined. Empy’s was a lot more ostentatious, but I had no idea what was coming, either. WIth him, he could’ve been holding an impromptu concert.”

“That’s the Emperor, alright.” Exusiai sighed. “I can’t imagine what it’d be like to go through something like this. Can you, Sora?”

“Hmm?” The ‘Lupo’ had been doing just that, actually.

Angelina smiled. “Oh, I think she can. I’ve had that look on my face for the past week now...It’s too bad we can’t afford to have a ceremony, though.”

“You can’t?” The Liberi measuring her stopped. “Oh, dear, why didn’t you tell me? I’m sure Empy and I can help you with that; consider it our wedding gift to you both.”

“You’d really do that? But they’re so expensive...” Her fiance’s sense for money was rubbing off on her.

Magallan chirped merrily. “Oh, it’s no big deal; we’re making so much, it’s a drop in the bucket. How does three weeks from today sound?”

“Oh, Magallan, I can’t just blindly agree without talking to my Croissantwich first...buuut that’ll probably be okay.” The Vulpo was about to explode from happiness; luckily, they were done with measurements at this point (because of Liberi efficiency), so she was free to detonate with glee as she burst out of the dressing room. “Croissaaaaaant!”

“Angie?!” The Forte heard her and turned around in time to be slammed by a full-speed makeout machine which managed through sheer enthusiasm to knock her to the floor.

Texas nodded as the other two followed out. “Ceremony?”

“Ceremony,” Exusiai confirmed. “Emp and Maggie paying for the whole thing?”

“That’s what he said...Wonder if he’ll pay for ours.”

Two Penguin Logistics members turned bright red as Bison and Mostima had an intense but muted conversation off to the side...Yep, just another day in Penguin Logistics.

-----------

“Wow. They really did pull out all the stops, didn’t they?” The Doctor and Amiya took back their IDs from the door guard as they walked into the auditorium that’d been taken over. “It’ll be hard to match for ours.”

“Doctor darling, we probably shouldn’t compete with the Emperor like that. He doesn’t like to back down from a fight.” Besides, why would she need a grand ceremony? Just her and the Doctor at the altar, Kal’tsit as the Maid of Honor, Savage and Blaze as bridesmaids-

There was a tap on her shoulder as her date gestured to the seating. “I wonder if they expect to fill the place tonight.”

“Everyone’s sitting so close to the front, it’s hard to tell.” The Cautus shrugged. “Let’s sit back here. It’s a bit crowded there...So many emotions at once might overload me.”

“As you wish~ Oh, they’re about to start, I think. One question: why is Texas on the other side and wearing a suit? And why isn’t Emperor, even though Lappland is in one?”

Amiya shrugged. “Hard to say, Doctor. How did Lappland get to be a groomsman when Bison is- Oh! He’s the officiant.”

“When did he get that certifi-” He stopped as soon as Bison began to read.

“Friends, colleagues, and esteemed leaders of Rhodes Island,” the Forte began. “While I stand before you today acting in a merely ceremonial capacity in this celebration, I cannot begin to tell you how exciting a day this is not just for us at Penguin Logistics, but for Rhodes Island as a whole. Never have I seen a pair more in love than the two who come here today to declare their union in holy matrimony. Will the groom please come forward?”

From a door off to their right, there was a bit of a ruckus, followed by Croissant stepping through with a sheepish smile on her face as Emperor walked her to the altar before taking a front-row seat. Evidently, she’d knocked over a coat rack or something as she’d approached the door, but that wasn’t what grabbed people’s attention.

The Doctor squeezed Amiya’s hand. “Our Croissant is a rather handsome woman, isn’t she?”

“Oh, hush, dear.” She lightly slapped his hand, which was resting atop hers on the chair arm between them. “I think she looks lovely.”

“That’s what I meant, darling, just in a masculine sense. The style matches her perfectly, and the tailoring is also impeccable, honestly.”

She gave him a look. “Have you been studying this sort of thing?”

“It’s important to have a broad knowledge base.” He smiled as the Forte stepped up to the altar, clearly noticed she’d missed her mark, and shuffled a little to get into place. “Oh, Cross...”

“Uh...thank y’all for comin’. Wudn’t sure how many people’d wanna come when we’d already tied the knot on our own, but uh...It means a lot ta both of us, I know. Uh...” She probably had more, but she choked up with tears in her eyes in the face of Rhodes Island’s full support on display. “Th-thank y’all so much...”

As Texas patted her on the shoulder, Bison continued. “Is the bride ready?”

“As ready as she’ll ever be,” Mostima muttered as the opposite door opened to reveal a procession: Greyy with a pair of rings displayed on a pillow walking with Gummy, who was sprinkling the floor behind them with flowers. Behind them, Magallan was arm-in-arm with Angelina, who was wearing a suit of her own.

“Oh my God,” Amiya gasped in wonder. “Doctor-”

He nodded, squeezing her hand. “I see her, too, dear.”

“Hot damn,” Emperor audibly muttered, catching the attendees off-guard and eliciting more than a few laughs.

“Thank you, Emperor.” Angie smiled at him before turning to the crowd as Maggie took a seat. “My parents aren’t here, and I doubt they’d have agreed to attend if I’d told them, but Penguin Logistics is more like my family than anyone. The other day, I finally married into it, and...I just wanna say, to everyone from Rhodes Island who was able to make it, and the folks who had work to do, I appreciate everything you’ve all done for Cross and me since I got here. Even if this probably isn’t what any of you saw coming...Bison?”

He smiled. “Greyy, if you would?” The Perro held out the pillow for the couple to each take a ring. “Excellent. Now, as I wasn’t able to be fully ordained in time for this ceremony, I can’t lead the two in a recital of their vows, but they asked to be able to each say something here today. Angelina, if you will?”

“I think my wifesband should go first,” she teased, grinning at the blush that turn of phrase created.

“Well, ya only get ta do this right once, huh...” The Forte wiped at her eye. “Hoo boy. I was there the night Angie realized her feelin’s fer me, but I’ll a’mit, e’er since the firs’ day I saw ‘er, I ‘ad a pretty good ide-er just ‘ow wun’erful she is. Ain’t a lotta girls in’a world that got both a good ‘ead on ‘er shoulders and a warm ‘eart like she got, but ‘at ain’t e’ry’in ta love ‘bout ‘er either. Not sure if she ‘members this, but first time we met was back when she aksidelly went’n PL lookin’ fer the Doctor. Nothin’ like ‘avin’ some’n so gorjus tell ya ‘Sorry, was lookin’ fer some’n else,’ ya know?”

A bit of laughter from the crowd before she continued. “I reckon I ‘ad the last laugh there, tho’, cuz’ guess ‘oo gets to call ‘erself Mrs. Ajimu now...Angelface, we were friends long ‘fore I thought we ‘ad a chance at bein’ lovers, so you know when I say I’ve seen ya at yer best and yer worst, I ain’t tryin’a diss ya. There ain’t a nuther person in ‘is room as lucky as me t’day, ‘cuz the love of my life loves meh back...Ya prolly shud stop meh, else I’ll just keep ram’lin’.”

“That’s alright; even if these folks have other places to be, I’d listen to every word. You know, darling, if it was a nightmare that inspired you to propose to me when you did, I have to wonder what happens when you have a good dream, but I think I’ve been living in one since the day we had our first date. Between movie nights with the company and waking up to your smile in the mornings, it’s like living in one of the cheesy teen novels I loved reading after floating up to one of my usual spots. Loving you is a flashback and a memory and a dream and a reality all rolled up in knowing that, whatever happens - arguments, deployments that separate us, maybe even one of us getting hurt - there’s nothing in the world that’ll stop me from needing you, wanting you, standing by your side...Meeting you was the best thing that ever happened to me...” Having said her piece, tears in her eyes, Angie reached out and slid her ring on Cross’s finger, who did the same in turn.

“I think I’m gonna cry,” the Doctor whispered to his date, who already was. “G-good call on the back sea--” And there went the water works.

Across most of the auditorium, actually, save for those physically incapable, and Bison, who soldiered on regardless. “That said, before we get to the festivities provided by Emperor and Magallan for the evening, it’s my duty to ask: if anyone here has any objection to this union - not that it will matter from a legal standpoint - speak now or forever hold your peace...Good, because I’d punch you myself if you did. Then, by the power invested in me by Rhodes Island and subsidiary company Penguin Logistics-”

“When did that happen?” Amiya asked in a hushed voice. “I thought we were just partners with them?”

“Closure and Emperor came to some kind of understanding. I wasn’t there for the process, I just signed the agreement.”

“-I now announce you to the world as Mrs. and Mrs. Ajimu. You may now kiss your bride.”

You didn’t have to ask them twice.

The celebration afterwards was wild as hell. Emperor had an impromptu concert (as expected); Bison proposed to Mostima, who actually agreed before falling apart in a spectacular show of emotion Exusiai had thought was impossible for her; the Doctor and Amiya tore up the dance competition that broke out, but narrowly lost to Croissantwich and Angelface in the karaoke contest afterwards; Lappland admitted that she wasn’t actually in love with Texas but trying to rile her up into a duel so she could get to Exusiai the entire time, which actually got the Texas family’s most composed to go full Mafia Samurai on her ass as the Sankta and the idol looked on in a mix of horror and “omg I knew it;” and through it all, drink was had, and merry was made.

Terra was a difficult place to live in. Poverty, inequality, terror, bloodshed, fear, hatred, jealousy - they’re no less potent or prominent on its surface than any other world’s, a product of the inevitable confluence of humanity’s imperfections magnified across a barely-numerable and broadly-scattered population. With all that said, though, there was much to live for, and as Angelina and Croissant made it home and threw themselves out of their clothes for the ‘real’ celebration of the evening, none of that mattered. Tomorrow would come, or it wouldn’t, but that night was theirs in a way no other would be...

[lochroma]

Some Concepts bc I'm feelin a little creative tonight:

The dragons of the fire emblem series + their culture draws parallels to that of Islam, less in means of the core faith— since with the divine dragons i wouldn't be sure if they'd lean towards monotheistic or polytheistic beliefs— but more the likes of dress and tradition surrounding it, heavily inspired from muslims if that makes sense? It starts closer to one unified belief/culture/common dress of the divine dragon tribes, and branches out into different variations between the different "lower" tribes. At least, I've always assumed the divine dragon tribe had a sort of superiority in class as opposed to say, earth or ice dragons ((vague shrugging motion @ that tho))

On that note, i think it should be clarified if the dragons do have a religion? Because ninian was an oracle— it mentions a few times, like in her heroes description, that she is such and that her dances are "divine tribute". Whether that's an ice dragon-specific thing, or an all around, idk! I'd like to believe that the dragons' religion could be evidenced from fe7's buffing rings, i.e. ninis/thor/filla/set. Once again though! Not much to go off of canonically-speaking, unfortunately.

More fe7 tho: Ilia is a twist on Inuit cultures and customs, hunting as the main source of food and clothing due to the cold, icy climate. Sacae is a parallel to Mongolia, as well, with nomadic lifestyles and yurts as a shelter (as evidenced in canon!)

Tellius takes most of its influences from slavic backgrounds, culture included. This one's kinda reinforced by the fe:h love abounds tellius alts, but I'd like to believe it goes deeper than just the dress, and one group of people. Therefore, it still has different sections across the continent (like east slav, west slav, etc etc) but maintains an overall common culture status despite regional separation. Tho i do think beorcs = slavic, and laguz = [to be determined bc im gonna be real it's been a long ass time since I've played 9 or 10 and idk what I'd wanna hc it as.]

Boy this is gettin kinda lengthy oops. Feel free to add on your own personal hcs tho!!

[future-dregs]

The Music of K/S

Kirk's perspective --------------- You Might Think, The Cars What About Love, Heart You Make Me Smile, Uncle Kracker Let My Love Open the Door, Pete Townshend You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin', The Righteous Brothers TMP Ebony Eyes, Bob Welch Seasons Change, Exposé, TMP Second Chance, .38 Special, TMP 1,2,3,4, Gloria Estafan Dreamin', Cliff Richard The Longest Time, Billy Joel I Won't Hurt You, The West Coast Pop Art Experimental Band More Than You Know, Axwell/Ingrosso Pink in the Night, Mitski He's So Shy, The Pointer Sisters Faith, George Michael If I Could Turn Back Time, Cher, TMP Kiss On My List, Hall & Oats I'd Love Making Love to You, Leonard Nimoy Every Time You Go Sway, Paul Young, pre motion picture Hole in My Heart, Luke Friend, TMP I'll Be There, Jackson 5 Babe, Styx Being With You, Smoky Robinson Right Here Waiting, Richard Marx Are You Lonesome Tonight, Elvis Presley I'll Be Around, The Spanners Dance with Me, Orleans Foolish Heart, Steve Perry All I Want, Kodaline, after TWOK Geyser, Mitski I Wanted You to Feel the Same, The Radio Dept. TMP Talking in Your Sleep, The Romantics Betcha By Golly Wow, The Stylistics We've Got Tonight, Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band When I Need You, Leo Sayer You Make Loving Fun, Fleetwood Mac If You Leave Me Now, Chicago Somebody, Bryan Adams Eternal Flame, The Bangles Open Arms, Journey I guess that's why they call it the blues, Elton John

Spock's  perspective ----------------- I Need Your Love, Calvin Harris Anchor, Mindy Gledhill You've Made Me So Very Happy, Blood, Sweat, and Tears Sunny, Bobby Hebb Like a Prayer, Madonna Glad You Came, The Wanted All For You, Sister Hazel Words Get in the Way, Gloria Estafan, five year mission before TMP Sister Golden Hair, America Atlantis, STRFCKR Lovergirl, Teena Marie Lucky Star, Madonna In Your Eyes, Peter Gabriel You Are My Sunshine You Don't Know Me, Ray Charles What's Love Got to Do With It, Tina Turner Love Will Keep Us Together, Captain and Tennille So Emotional, Whitney Houston Sunshine of My Life, Carmen McRae Take Me Home, Phil Collins, mix of movies 3 & 4 I Do Adore, Mindy Gledhill Hard to Say I'm Sorry, Chicago, after TMP Lullaby, Dixie Chicks Goodnight Sweetheart, Dean Martin, spock prime, alone Lady, Styx Nothin' at All, Heart Your Smiling Face, James Taylor Can't Fight This Feeling, REO Speedwagon Forever Young, Rod Stewart, Spock, when he is left alone Laughter Lines, Bastille, Spock telling AOS Kirk about TOS Kirk Then He Kissed Me, The Crystals The Tide is High, Blondie Maybe I'm Amazed, Paul McCartney Affair of the Heart, Rick Springfield Sunflower, Post Malone I'd Like to Walk Around in Your Mind, Vashti Bunyan The Wonder of You, Elvis Presley Throwing it All Away, Genesis, when he is dying TWOK Lady, Commodores

Both/ spirk in general   ----------------- Mirror, Justin Timberlake You Are the One, Firefall We Are Stars, The Pierces The Time of My Life, Bill Medley Heaven, Bryan Adams Say You, Say Me, Lionel Ritchie Who's in Your Heart Now, Studio Killers Funky at Heart, Studio Killers We Belong, Pat Benatar It Was You, Ashley Ballard You're Still the One, OMS Could It Be I'm Falling in Love, The Spinners Give a Little Bit, Supertramp Oh Boy!, Buddy Holly Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now, Jefferson Starship You're the Inspiration, Chicago Something About You, Level 42

[diaferonarc]

Come and take a walk on the wild side Let me kiss you hard in the pouring rain You like your girls insane

I'm not afraid to say that I'd die without him Who else is gonna put up with me this way? I need you, I breathe you, I'd never leave you

Singing in the old bars, swinging with the old stars Living for the fame Kissing in the blue dark, playing pool and wild darts Video games

Wining and dining, drinking and driving Excessive buying, overdose and dying On our drugs, and our love, and our dreams, and our rage Blurring the lines between real and the fake Dark and lonely, I need somebody to hold me

American dreams came true somehow I swore I'd chase 'em 'til I was dead I heard the streets were paved with gold That's what my father said

Baby's all dressed up, with nowhere to go That's the little story of the girl you know Relying on the kindness of strangers Tying cherry-knots Smiling, doing party favors Put your red dress on, put your lipstick on Sing your song

I got my red dress on tonight Dancin' in the dark in the pale moonlight Done my hair up real big, beauty queen style High heels off, I'm feelin' alive

Sweet sixteen and we had arrived Walking down the streets as they whistle, "Hi, hi" Stealin' police cars with the senior guys Teachers said we'd never make it out alive

that’s the inspiration so far.  i feel like she would be very wild,  always dreaming about the boy that will sweep her off her feet.  and she would not do good at school,  she would barely goes,  just working at some old creepy bars with bikers.

[xmxisxforxmaybe]

Melbourne, An Interlude

Summary: Merriell “Snafu” Shelton is on leave in Australia and meets a girl who, in quite a twist for Merriell, ends up charming the pants off of him. I was inspired by @rami-hoe and their story, The Soldier and the Nurse, because it was written in Snaf’s first person POV.

 I am experimenting with this whole first person POV thing, so I keep Snaf’s thoughts in a slight version of his accent—this might be annoying af and not work at all :/ Feedback welcome! This is also my first piece on here with an OFC instead of a reader insert. I still tried to keep her vague-ish, but I wanted to do something different : )

 This story will be two parts because I no longer seem to be able to write a one-shot to save my life.

   Permanent Taglist: @rami-malek-trash  @sherlollydramoine

   Warnings: language, racial slur against the Japanese in accordance with the time period, and lots of sex stuff, so no under 18s, please!

If Guadalcanal was anythin’ to indicate what else was comin,’ I was gonna make the most of my time here in Melbourne. I was one of the lucky ones without malaria, but I was skinnier than I’d eva been and it was provin’ to be difficult to keep food in me long enough to actually fix my malnourishment.

What I can tell ya was takin’ a shower without a gun within arm’s length, without the fear of havin’ a shell dropped on ya naked ass, was next to feelin’ like god himself was wrappin’ ya up in a hug made out of warm rainwater.  

 It took a few days of eatin’ a little here and there and a whole lotta sleep for my nerves to relax. After a few meals dat finally settled well and sleepin’ for damn near 36 hours, I was ready to go out and find a drink, and I more than hoped not to spend anotha night alone on a fuckin’ cot in dat stadium.  

 First night out, I drank five glasses of whiskey and ended up stumblin’ around, gettin’ lost—I used to be able to drink a hell of a lot more than dat. I ended up runnin’ smack inta a gaggle of girls, gigglin’ and chatterin’ as dey were headin’ into the bar I just left.

 I’ll be honest, I didn’t care which one said yes—so I took my shot, hopin’ I’d come across as charmin’ to at least one of em. I smiled a lot because I knew girls liked it when I did, and I ran a hand through my hair, short because it had just been cut, tryin’ to look just a little innocent and tryin’ to not sound as drunk as I was.  

 Her name was somethin’ like Stella or Bella, and I’m pretty sure she was a decent lookin’ girl. She took me back to the place she shared with her sister, and while she was shy at first, she opened up once the lights were out. I tried my best to get her to leave a little light on because I spent enough time in the black of night, not able to even see my own dick in my hand when takin’ a piss. But she was too shy for dat.

 I took my time, drunk as I was, and made sure she was ready for me. I wasn’t ‘bout to do somethin’ stupid to start off my leave and maybe she’d be the only girl I’d end up gettin’. I wanted her to remember a good enough time.

 The sex was . . . sex. She was a little quiet, a little soft. She kept her hands at her sides, clutchin’ at the sheets on occasion as she laid under me. I eventually gave up on askin’ her what she liked, how she wanted to be touched, because she just giggled and shook her head. I liked it betta when a girl let loose, when she let me know it felt good, too.  

 I came, pullin’ out even though I was wearin’ a rubber. Unlike a lot of my buddies, I paid damn close attention to those fuckin’ VD movies dey showed us. Right before we shipped out, a kid I knew from trainin’ camp got the clap. Sometimes, when I think ‘bout just slippin’ in to a woman, I remember what his fuckin’ dick looked like and I spend the thirty seconds lubin’ and wrappin’ up with one of the rubber kits the officers give out like candy. I wasn’t gonna spend half my leave vistin’ a Pro Station, or worse, laid up in the hospital with my cock on fire.

 Once somethin’-ella was asleep, I tried to leave, quiet as possible. The damn MPs were still up everyone’s assholes, and I didn’t wanna be put in a cage. But on my way out, I ran into her sister and her name sounded somethin’ like Stella or Bella, too. She wasn’t quite as good lookin’ as her sister, but at least she wasn’t shy.

 Honestly, I was just engagin’ in small talk, tryin’ to leave, but before I knew it, I found myself, naked and sprawled out on Stella/Bella #2’s bed with her bouncin’ on my cock like she’d been born to do it. Unlike her sis, she really didn’t need my help to come, and I actually was a little taken aback when ‘bout two minutes in she started screamin’ like a banshee, shakin’ and comin’ undone on top of me. I closed my eyes and concentrated on the feeling of her warmth, the sweet smell of sex mixin’ with whateva clean soap she had used, until I found myself comin’ for her, just like I did for her sister.

 This one was more difficult to get away from, her limbs all tangled with mine and I wasn’t ready for dat—for feelin’ like I couldn’t move. It was way too much like sittin’ in a foxhole up to ya asshole in mud, tangled with ya weapon and ya gear and leanin’ against a buddy.

 I relied on instinct and stayed real still, laborin’ my breathin’ like I was asleep and sure enough, she drifted off, snorin’ her head off.

 I detangled myself and got outta there. I’d come enough to be a little more sober, so I snuck a glass of water before headin’ out, hopin’ I’d be able to find my way back to base unnoticed.

 * * * * *

 The next few weeks proceeded in much the same fashion. Drinkin’, smokin’, a little gamblin’, and closin’ out the night by finding some sweet thing to bed down. I was the happiest I’d been in a long time and even though the threat of drills and trainin’ was kept loomin’ ova our heads, I didn’t mind. Nothin’ here would eva be as bad as what was ova there.

 Like I said, I was content with my days and nights and believed it would be how’d I’d spend my time in Melbourne until I saw her.

 I was playin’ a game of cards with a few of my buddies, a cigarette danglin’ from my lips, the smoke waftin’ up in a thick stream when I glanced up at a loud guffaw of laughter comin’ from a few tables ova. I reached up to lower my cigarette, and when I found the source of the laughter, I saw the sexiest woman I had eva laid my damn eyes on.

 She was surrounded by a group of marines I didn’t know, probably from the 7th Division. Her laughter had them captivated, and her glass of beer was—goddamn, she was drinkin’ beer like she’d been doin’ it her whole life. Her lips fit sensuously ova the thick rim of the mug, and the way she licked the little bit of liquid from her upper lip after a long draught, not just a sip, but a real drink, made me shift in my chair.

 I had to know her—fuck sleepin’ with her; I just needed to be near her.

 I bowed out of the game, the guys givin’ me major shit as I walked toward her table, all of them turnin’ to see if I’d make an asshole of myself.

 When I stopped in front of the table, the conversation barely paused, even though she noticed me immediately and shot me a smirk, her pink lips glistenin’.

 “Hi ya,” I said loud enough to turn all their attention. “Name’s Merriell Shelton, 1st Marines Division, and I’d love to buy ya a drink.”

 The woman raised her eyebrow, her smirk still planted on her lips. The marines around her laughed and told me to fuck off, albeit with more polite words since dey were in front of the lady.

 “As you can see Merriell Shelton, I don’t have a shortage of marines to buy me a drink. What makes your offer so special?”

 American. I wasn’t expectin’ dat. Her response made it clear she was bein’ coquettish. Her tone was teasin’ and her eyes were shinin’ with a wickedness I had never seen in a woman’s eye before. It only made her more appealin’ and only made me more determined to shut the other guys up who had started laughin’ at her response, tellin’ me to keep movin.’

 “Well, my offer is different, Miss, because dat’s all I want,” I said.

 The marines shifted in their seats, clearly annoyed, until one of em I hadn’t seen earlier, guffawed. It was a guy in my company named James Haneson, but everyone called him Hollywood because he had movie-star good looks and wore sunglasses every chance he got. In fact, even though it was night, he had ‘em on now.

 “Sure, Snafu. You’ve been with a different girl every night since we got here. Remember those sisters? Or were you just full of shit?” Hollywood said, his white teeth glitterin’ as he laughed while the othas joined in. Because I knew him, I caught the edge in his tone. He was sendin’ a clear signal, but I wasn’t ‘bout to let him win without a fight.

 Still wearin’ a grin I considered to be charmin, I retorted, “I neva’ said I been a saint. All I want is to buy a drink for the most beautiful woman I eva seen who also happens to be able to drink betta than about half the men in my company.”

 The woman laughed at dat, a throaty, deep laugh I felt run straight through body, like I got a good jolt from a bad wire.  

 “Well, gents,” she said lookin’ all ‘round her circle of admirers and fixin’ em with a sad little downturn of her mouth, which was surely negated by the wicked look in her eyes. “How can a gal refuse such a reasonable request?”

 The guys all protested, Hollywood even reached out to take hold of her elbow, but she slid out of her chair and her linked her arm in mine.

 “I’ll see you boys soon,” she said as she reached across the table to drink down the last of her beer.

 “Wait, Kathryn! Are you gonna come back to this bar or will you be at the one ‘cross the street?”

 “Or the club down on Main?”

 “Or—”

 Kathryn cut them off with a wink, statin’, “Guess you’ll just have to wait and see!”

 Then, she turned to me and whispered, “Let’s get out of here before they stop being so amiable.”

 “Kathryn! Where ya goin’? You promised to have a drink with me tonight,” an Aussie marine who was at least three times my size and looked to be more mountain than man said as we whirred by him, Kathryn callin’ out her response ova her shoulder.

 “Now, I know that isn’t true because I never make promises to soldiers, Roger! Catch ya around!”

 As we exited the bar, Kathryn leaned into me to make way for a group of people headin’ in and she whispered right in my ear, “I took him home night before last and he came on my thighs before he even got my panties off.”

 I laughed, goddamn did I laugh! She was sexy and had a mouth on her dat woulda made most men blush.

 She continued to lean into me, and when I turned to look at her, her eyes were on my face and she was grinnin’.

 “That was a good reaction. You see, I was testing you, Mr. Shelton, and you passed. Shall we have that drink now?”

 “Yes, ma’am,” I said returnin’ her dazzlin’ smile.

 “I know a place that isn’t quite so inundated with, well, your lot.”

 I let her lead me through the streets, happy she kept her arm linked with mine. She smelled like perfume, a familiar scent dat reminded me of the little purple sweet violets my granmama grew. Perfume was a luxury now, so I figured with the way she spoke and dressed she was from money. Girls with the kinda confidence Kathryn had were used to havin’ things at their disposal.

 As we walked, she pointed out various places and named them, tellin’ me whether dey was worth vistin’ or if dey’d charge ya double.

 “How do ya know so much if ya American?” I asked, no longer able to keep my curiosity from climbin’ out the bag.

 “Well, my father is Australian. He met my mother while he was at University in the States. We always spend Christmas here with my grandparents, but since the war, I haven’t felt much like going back to my studies. I work in the shipyard now as a welder.”  

 I actually stopped in my tracks. I was expectin’ maybe a Red Cross volunteer or a nurse, but a welder, huh.

 Kathryn let go of my arm and pulled off her glove, holdin’ up her hand and tellin’ me to feel it.

 I reached out and ran my own calloused fingers ova her’s and across her calloused palm.  

 “You really are somethin’, ma’am,” I said, not botherin’ to hide the awe in my voice.

 “I guess we haven’t been properly introduced—I’m Kathryn Taylor,” she said as she held out her ungloved hand to me.

 “Merriell Shelton. Pleasure to officially meet ya,” I said as I enveloped her hand in mine, admirin’ the strength in her grip.

 “Come on, Merriell. We’re almost to Smithy’s.”

 We turned a corner and after walkin’ a few more feet, Kathryn took my hand in her once-more gloved hand and lead me down what seemed like a never-endin’, near pitch-black alley. She made a sharp turn left and then a right before we were brought to a buildin’ dat looked just like any otha bar in Melbourne, except the accents from the patrons out on the patio were all Aussie.

 “Kathryn! Good to see you, luv,” the man at the door said. “And who’s this?”

 “My friend, Merriell Shelton. He passed my test, Joe,” Kathryn said with a wink.

 The man called Joe chuckled and clapped me on the back, however, his next words were anythin’ but friendly.

 “Start any shit in there, mate, and your MPs will be the least of your concern, clear?”

 “Clear,” I said with an affirmative nod.

 I followed Kathryn in and got a fair share of stares, but no one seemed to pay us much mind once we slid into a little booth in the very back.

 “Drinks are on me,” Kathryn said as she fished around in her little bag.

 “Oh, no ma’am. I invited you—”

 “Merriell. You fought. You lived. You’ll be off to fight again. I’m not the one risking my life on those godforsaken islands. The absolute least I can do is buy you a drink,” Kathryn said with finality as she slid from the booth and strode away—at least before stopping on her heel and doing a rather impressive about-face.

 “I forgot to ask what you wanted,” she said with a quizzical look on her face as she stood in front of me.

 I had to laugh. I didn’t think I’d eva met a woman who made me laugh as much as I had in such a short while.

 “I like whiskey,” I said.

 “You’ll get the finest in the house,” she said, smiling again before she turned and took off for the crowded bar.

I took a lot of pleasure in watchin’ her walk away. Her blue dress clung to her backside like it was made for the sole purpose of drivin’ a man wild.

 When Kathryn returned, she had two large glasses of beer and two glasses of whiskey.

 “Figured it’d be awhile before they’d make room for me at the bar again,” she said as she scooted a beer and a whiskey to my side of the table.

 I thanked her and took a sip of the whiskey. It was damn smooth, so smooth I was sure I’d never tasted anythin’ like it before.

 Kathryn also took a sip and thought for a moment before sayin’, “I think it has a nutty taste. Definitely not floral, not woody.”

 I shrugged my shoulders at her, not sure what else to say.

 “It’s my dad’s and my granddad’s favorite. I’ve been sneaking sips since I was a little girl,” Kathryn said as she slid her glass toward me. “However, I really don’t like it at all.”

 I laughed again, a quiet chuckle of surprise because I wasn’t eva sure what was gonna come out of her mouth next.

 “Where are you from, Merriell? Your accent is . . . sexy,” she said, pausin’ to either add emphasis or because she might’ve finally felt a little shy.

 “I’m from New Orleans, Louisiana.”

 “New—Naw Orlens. No. New Or-lins. How’d I do?”

 “Not too bad,” I said with a chuckle. “Just don’t eva go full yank on me and say New Orleeens,” I said, draggin’ my e’s out to create dat sound I absolutely hated.

 Kathryn giggled and said, “Point taken. I never want to hear you make that terrible noise again.”

 We both smiled at each other, and even though the night was still young, I wished it would neva end.

 Talkin’ to Kathryn was the easiest thing I’d eva done. She didn’t ask about the war, so I got to enjoy not talkin’ about it. After a few more hours and several more drinks, I learned about her childhood, her schoolin’, and her life here with her grandparents. In turn, I opened up to her about home, growin’ up and not always havin’ money but how my granmama made sure us kids neva went hungry.

 I could tell I was feelin’ the effects of the whiskey and Kathryn could, too. Like everyone who wasn’t Cajun, she said my accent was takin’ up ‘more space in my mouth’ as she put it.

 “But it’s still so sexy,” she said, this time bold as brass.

 “I’m convinced dat nut’in on dis earth is sexy as you, darlin’,” I said, shooting her what I hoped was one of my best grins.

 “You know, I’ve never met anyone with eyes more beautiful than yours. They can’t lie, Merriell. Did you know that? I’ve been testing you all night,” Kathryn said with seriousness, except I couldn’t help grinnin’ at her slurred speech.

 I was a little taken aback at the compliment, though, and told her so.

 “Nobody’s eva told me dat ‘bout ma eyes. Usually, dey just call me . . . unnervin’ or some shit,” I said with a nervous laugh. I had never confessed dat it bothered me to anyone.

 Kathryn narrowed her eyes, takin’ her time to formulate her response.

 “Prolly because you can see right the fuck through people—just like you did with, oh, what’s his name back at the bar . . . Hollywood! People want to feel like they’re special, like they’re some kinda enigma that can’t be solved. But you, Mer, you just cut right through their bullshit.”

 “I’ve neva wanted ta kiss someone more dan I wanna kiss ya right now,” I said, leanin’ on the table, my fingers dancin’ ‘round the glass dat was between em.

 Kathryn sat straight up and looked like I’d dumped a gallon of ice-water ova her head. I was confused enough to start to apologize for bein’ forward, but she cut me off.

 She locked her eyes on mine and said, “No. When we kiss, it’ll be something that you remember for the rest of your life, not a stolen press of the lips or dart of the tongue in a back-alley bar. You deserve something more than that, Merriell.”

 No woman like Kathryn had eva said anythin’ like dat to me. In fact, no woman had eva said anythin’ like dat to me. I was a lotta things, a whole lotta things, but this girl seemed to deem me worthy of far more than I eva imagined for myself.

 We were both disappointed when the bartender announced last call. It was near 3 am, but I neva felt more awake; it felt like the fuckin’ Japs were a million miles away on their own stinkhole of an island, mindin’ their own goddamn business and dey had decided to keep it dat way.

 “Guess I outta let you get back before they send the MPs after you,” Kathryn said, her eyes a little glassy as she smiled at me.

 “Nah—da officers quit checkin’ up dat closely on us. All it takes is a few favors and ya safe from dem assholes.”

 Like I was discoverin’ she was prone to do, Kathryn grew serious and changed the topic on me.

 “I’m looking for something, Mer. I’m just not sure what it is yet, but I do know that I’ve never found it.”

 I smiled at her, puzziln’ a little ova what she said.

 “I dunno if I’ve got anythin’ dat interstin’ for ya, but I would sure would like to see ya again.”

 “Done,” she said, pullin’ a little notepad and a pen from her purse. She scribbled an address on it and reached ova to tuck it snug into my shirt pocket.

 She had put her gloves back on and reached up to cup the side of my face. I leaned inta her touch and closed my eyes, savorin’ her gentleness. She slid her gloved thumb ova my lips, pressin’ just a little on the bottom one. I opened my eyes and we just stood there for what felt like a lifetime, lookin’ at each other.

 She shook her head, and pulled away, sayin’, “I’ll make sure you get on the right tram. Come on.”

 Kathryn took off down the dark alley, and I followed her, thinkin’ there was a good chance I’d follow her anywhere.