#great minds overthink alike

[spaceman-earthgirl]

Supercorptober 2023 Day 9: Breakfast

ao3 fic link. series link.

Lena is warm and comfortable when she wakes up, though slightly disappointed when she rolls over and finds herself alone in bed.

Not too disappointed though, because how could she ever be disappointed after the events of last night, not when her current nakedness reminds her exactly of what happened between her and Kara.

Lena presses her lips together as she tries not to smile, thinking about Kara and everything that has changed between them in the last twenty-four hours. But then she realises she doesn’t need to hide how she feels as she lets the smile spread across her face, lets herself enjoy exactly how she’s feeling right now, which is stupidly happy and totally and completely loved.

Lena slips out of bed, still smiling to herself. The apartment sounds quiet but she’s hungry, and she assumes Kara has been called out on an emergency and will no doubt be hungry when she returns too.

Not that Kara is ever not hungry.

Lena debates for a moment whether to put on her clothes from yesterday, whether to find some fresh clothes in the drawer than Kara had designated as her own, but then she spots a shirt of Kara’s on the floor, and as cliché as it is, she can’t resist slipping that on instead.

She feels stupidly happy again, still smiling as she walks into the living room. 

Lena barely makes it across the room when the front door opens, startling her. Her pulse sky rockets, only calming slightly when she realises it’s just Kara walking through the door.

(Which makes sense, but for some reason her mind had jumped to it being Alex entering the apartment and Lena does not think she could’ve dealt with Alex finding out she’d slept with her sister right now).

Lena’s heart continues beating quickly for a different reason when her eyes meet Kara’s and images of last night flash through her mind again.

“You’re awake,” Kara says, looking surprised herself, but she’s looking at Lena with a look that Lena had only just realised yesterday had meant Kara loves her too and Lena’s back to feeling loved again.

“I am,” Lena smiles. “I was going to make you breakfast, I thought you’d been called out on a super emergency."

Kara shakes her head as she smiles, holding up a bag and two coffees Lena hadn’t noticed before. “Great minds think alike. I wanted to surprise you with breakfast in bed.”

Lena’s smiling too as she makes her way towards Kara. “If it makes you feel any better, you’ve surprised me with breakfast.”

Lena watches the way Kara’s eyes drop, and only then does Lena remember exactly what she’s wearing.

“That’s a good look on you.”

Lena blushes, only half regretting her clothing decision. She’s embarrassed, but also nothing else matters when Kara looks at her like that. Including breakfast.

Lena steps forward, and before she can overthink too much, she presses into Kara’s space, mouth meeting Kara’s.

Apparently, nothing else matters to Kara either, who drops the bag she’s been holding in favour of wrapping an arm around Lena’s waist. Kara luckily manages to maneuver them closer to the table so she can at least put the tray of drinks down without spilling them, all the while never breaking contact with Lena.

“Bedroom?” Lena asks, words mumbled into Kara’s mouth.

Kara pulls away for a moment. “Yes please,” she replies, and then Kara’s kissing her, warm and perfect.

Breakfast can wait.

[yacinthemorning]

A Lesson in Listening

Summary: Grian's brother is moving to town and staying with him while he house hunts. While introducing him to his friend, however, Jimmy and Tango seem to make quite a connection. Determined not to suffer through the pining, Grian and Impulse attempt to play matchmaker.

Ships: Grian & Impulse(Platonic), Jimmy/Tango (Romantic), ZITS (Platonic), Grian & Jimmy (Familial)

Warnings: mild acephobia, verbal fight, sibling bullying, misunderstandings, relationship meddling

If Grian was good at one thing, it was connecting people. Not to be a braggart, but he was a sociable sort who was good at reading people, made new friends with ease, and led the pecking order in his circles. It was his great talent, really. One of many.

“Humility not being among them, clearly.”

“Shush.” Grian hissed, whipping his head around to glare daggers into Impulse. The stout man returned it with his trademark innocent smile, as if Grian didn’t know what went on in the head behind it. “You’re distracting me.”

Impulse chuckled. “What’s there to distract from?”

“I���ll have you know mixing friend groups is a very delicate process!” Grian explained, holding his phone to show the opened notepad doc. “Inviting the wrong person could be the difference between success and disaster.”

“I think you’re overthinking things, G. Anyone who’d get along with you will probably get along with your brother.”

Therein lied the problem, though. Jimmy was nothing like Grian. Okay, well, nothing was a bit of a strong word. Jimmy was extroverted and sociable like Grian, and they both had a fondness for mischief and cats. And maybe Jimmy was the first person Grian always invited to karaoke night when he was in town, because no one else was quite as enthusiastic as they were. But other than that they were nothing alike! For one, unlike Grian, Jimmy was a massive loser.

“That’s a bit rude.”

Grian squawked. “Would you please stop reading my mind!”

“You should stop speaking your mind, then.” Impulse shrugged and returned to scrolling through his phone. Grian had assigned him the task of picking out the venue for the night out, being far more familiar with the town than Grian. He paused, “You might as well monologue, I know you want to.”

“I don’t monologue! I’m not Scar.” Another name was struck out on the list. Doc was angry at him right now, anyways. “I just want things to go well, can I not be excited that Tim is moving closer? I’ve barely got to see him more than once every other month for the past several years! By the way, we can’t-“

“Can’t eat red meat so make sure there’s other options, yeah, I know.” A large hand patted down on Grian’s head, ruffling his hair.

He pouted, falling back into the cushions of his couch. “I feel like you do not appreciate the skill needed to coordinate you people. It’s like herding cats, you know.”

“Why do you think we leave it to you?” Impulse leaned over Grian’s shoulder. “Who you got so far, anyways?”

“You, Scar, Gem, and Cleo. Mostly people he’s met before at least.”

A curious hum filled the air and Grian patiently waited for whatever idea was brewing in Impulse’s head. There were a few taps to his screen, then, “You think Tango can come?”

“Tango?” Grian’s eyebrow quirked up. “Isn’t he hauled up in his basement working on some game right now?” While most certainly a good friend, Tango was one Grian went almost just as long without seeing as his brother half a day’s drive away, despite being a street away. Once he had an idea he would dedicate himself to it until it was done.

Impulse sighed. “Yeah. Zed was able to get him outside for an hour last week, and he went on some business trip for a bit, but he also hasn’t eaten in like two days last I checked. It’d be good excuse to drag him out. He’s gonna forget what real people sound like outside his headphones if we don’t.”

“I honestly don’t know how he expects to survive if he moves out from you guys.”

“I already made him promise to give me a set of spare keys when he does.”

Grian tilted his head as he stared at his last message to the man in question. Something about a crazy idea for a remote-controlled cat toy he thought of. In all honesty it wasn’t the worst idea. Not the cat toy- Tango was a strong personality who left a big impression, but he was always polite. Certainly much more introverted than everyone else going, but not nearly as bad as Zed. At least, when he remembered to leave his basement. It couldn’t do them any harm. At the very worst he could sit in the corner and chatter with Impulse. “Yeah, sure, let’s invite him.” He said, already typing. 

Impulse gave a thumbs up. “Tell him we’re gonna go to that barbeque place he loves, that’ll get him.”

“I said-”

“They have plenty of chicken and even vegetarian options, I double checked. It’s right across from the bowling alley, too. And call him, don’t text, or he’ll never see it.”

It was a small miracle Tango agreed to go. It was a small miracle he answered his phone at all. The mention of barbeque worked, though. How much of the rest of the evening they could convince him to stick around for had yet to be seen, but Grian was hopeful he’d stay a little while at least.

Impulse could deal with Tango, though. Right now, Grian had his hands full with Jimmy. They were running ten minutes behind because his poor little brother couldn’t bear going a day without a bubble bath. “C’mon, Tim, get in the car!” He shouted from the window.

Jimmy stumbled in, nearly dropping his phone between the seats in the process. “I’m hurrying, I’m hurrying, I just had to send a text. I thought this was supposed to be fun?” He whined. The second his door was closed Grian began driving, not waiting for him to get his seatbelt in. He was so tall and lanky he’d just smash his head through the glass whether he had one on or not, anyways.

“It’s called punctuality, Timmy. Something the hosts should have!”

“Alright, I get it.” He slumped back into his seat, caving as he always did. It must be hard, having an older brother who was always right. Of course, it was much harder being said brother, as Grian could attest.

The car ride was quiet, only the radio filling the space while Grian worked to remember where he needed to go. Jimmy was the first to break the silence, “So, I’ve scheduled some tours for this week.”

Grian hummed. “Anything promising?”

“Actually yeah.” He chirped, pulling out his phone. Before he could shove it in Grian’s face he put his hand up. It’d only been a month since he rear-ended a Toyota, and he’ll be damned if he hit someone else. The last thing his friends needed was to reignite the jokes about him being too short to see over the dashboard. Jimmy made a whine but didn’t try again. “There’s a place not far out of town in the farmlands. It’s small and old, but it’s an actual house with over half an acre.”

“I dunno why you care so much about land. A condo downtown is way better.”

“It’s nice, isn’t it? I could have a garden.”

“I guess.” The obnoxiously large sign for the barbeque glared high above the trees and buildings around it just up ahead. “Oh, we’re already here. Should be mostly people you met before, by the way.”

“That’s fine.”

Pulling into the parking lot, Grian could already see Impulse’s minivan and Cleo’s beat up old car. He clicked his tongue as he pulled up next to them. “See! I told you we were late, everyone’s already here.”

“Oh, come off it, they probably just got here, it’s fine.”

It was not fine, the host should always be first, but he wouldn’t expect Jimmy to understand. The two squabbled all the way inside, only stopping to tell the waiter their booking. A nice large table on the patio already had most of Grian’s friends sitting around, still having yet to be served even drinks. Everyone but Tango despite his phone, unmistakable with its Guy Fieri case, on the table. Bathroom, maybe? He was always terrible about going before he left. Scar was the first to spot them. “G! Timmy! You’re here!”

“That we are.” Grian mumbled and turned to Impulse. “Where’s-”

“Hey, Grian, just in time!” The scratchy voice of Tango shouted too-loudly behind them. He saw Jimmy jump, and both brothers swivelled on their heels. Tango jolted back a bit, friendly wave shrinking to his side at the reaction. His eyes grew wide, locking with Jimmy’s which mirrored him like two deer caught in headlights. “Oh!” He squeaked unintentionally.

It jogged Jimmy out of his fright enough to look away, though Grian took suspicious note of the redness of his ears. He gave his baby brother a raised eyebrow, but he didn’t seem to see it.

“Right, well, Tango, Cleo, this is my brother, Ti-”

“It’s Jimmy.” Jimmy jumped in at lightning speed, holding his hand out for Tango to shake with a wide smile. “The name’s Jimmy.” Tango hesitated for a second, before tentatively shaking back with an equally tentative smile.

“Tango, of the Tek variety. Nice to finally meet you.”

“I thought you said your brother was Tim?” Cleo asked.

Impulse scratched at his bread. “Honestly, I thought it was.”

“It’s not, my name’s Jimmy. Don’t trust anything this man says, he’s a menace.” Jimmy huffed, which got far too enthusiastic an agreement from nearly the whole table for Grian’s liking. Behind him, Tango snuck around back to the table. In a baffling move, as far as Grian was concerned, he paused at the empty chair across from his own and pulled it out. He nodded towards Jimmy, who muttered a sheepish thanks. Grian narrowed his eyes at the engineer, but he seemed to be pointedly not looking at him. A shared look from Impulse, though, let him know he wasn’t the only one who took notice.

“Well, then, Jimmy, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Cleo reached over the table, offering their hand.

Chatter very quickly picked itself up once they were all sat down. Most was directed towards Jimmy, asking what he did and the places he was looking at and how on earth did he get his hair that perfect. It was a bit awkward with him sitting at the end. Given the middle seat where Grian now sat was also empty, he suspected Tango’s little gentleman’s stunt had messed up the seating arrangement Impulse intentionally left. 

It wasn’t the last. When their drinks came Tango had ordered some crazy bright red fruity slushy monstrosity like he was on vacation or something. For him it might as well be. Something that brightly coloured, with a fruit skewer at that, was basically tempting the gods as far as Jimmy was concerned, who looked more dazzled by it than the already bright blue drink he ordered. Only a sip had been taken before Tango was nudging it towards him, asking, “Wanna try?” Which he wholeheartedly accepted.

Honestly, between that and the conversation somehow always managing to close into a back and forth between the pair, Grian wanted to gag. Did his brother have absolutely no shame? Or maybe Grian was just bitter he had to order something lighter as their driver. It was at least funny to watch Scar also ask for a sip and be completely ignored.

A large platter was ordered over individual meals. It was just easier, when everyone wanted to try this and that. Astonishingly, it was probably the first time Grian had witnessed Tango eat a vegetable, when he tried one of the skewers the brothers ordered on the side. That was the power of good barbeque, he supposed.

They finally called it after Gem won the third round of bowling in a row. Grian tapped against the open door of his car, glaring holes in the back of his brother’s head, who was too busy saying goodbye to Tango to notice. “Come ooon Tim!” He finally shouted after the third obnoxious little giggle they shared. When he turned, Grian narrowed his eyes. You ain’t subtle. The pair finally said goodbye for real, and Jimmy ran to get in the car before Grian decided to drive off without him. He’d barely gotten his seatbelt on before he was furiously typing something on his phone. Really?

“So, how was it?” Grian asked.

“It was fun, your friends seem cool.” Was the distracted response.

“Mhm…” He leaned closer over his shoulder. “And how was Tango?”

If it was possible to jump out of one’s skin then Jimmy had jumped out of his skin, muscles, and bones. “Huh?” He squeaked, face red and eyes bugged. Grian only returned it with an unimpressed eye roll.

“Oh please. You nearly dropped a bowling ball on your foot while swooning.”

“Well… He’s a cool guy, isn’t he?”

And that shut Grian up. More efficiently than he would like to admit. He expected Jimmy to deny it, or be too flustered to say much of anything. When Grian failed to reply Jimmy went back to his phone, tapping away with a smile. There was that obnoxious giggle again.

This was not one of the issues Grian anticipated having when his brother told him he was moving. 

“So, how do we set them up?”

Impulse Hummed, spending far too long reading the contents of a can of cream of mushroom like it wasn’t the same can he always bought. “Who?”

“ Who? ” Grian mocked back. “Tim and Tango!”

“Do we need to?” Three more cans joined the first, before they moved on to the broths. Grian threw the bouillon in the cart before his companion could grab a carton that would languish in the back of his fridge. “They seem to be doing fine on their own.”

“No, trust me. I know Tim. He was literally living with his last boyfriend before he realized they were dating and that he liked him. He’s an idiot.”

“And Tango hasn’t exactly been leaving the basement much lately.” Impulse conceded, grabbing a carton of pho broth anyways. Acceptable, Grian supposed.

“So, then, any ideas?”

They paused before entering the next aisle. The larger man’s face twisted in thought. “Well, we could invite him to D&D, run a oneshot, and have their characters drink a love potion until they get the hint.”

“That sounds like a terrible idea, absolutely not.” He wrote it down in his phone for a future session.

“Another dinner?”

“What are the odds of getting Tango out of the house twice?”

“Probably a lot higher than you’d think with how they were acting.”

“What if I gave Timmy a tour of your house and just locked the basement door behind him?”

“You know I’m starting to think we might be bad at this and should leave it to someone else.”

“Nonsense!” Grian grabbed the first bottle of soya sauce he spotted, much to Impulse’s protests. He wasn’t going to sit and wait for him to match the prices to the ounces. “Look, I know Timmy best, and you know Tango best. Logically, there’s no better pair of heads to crack together for this. They’ll thank us at the wedding.”

A jar of pickled bamboo shoots found its way into the cart beside the biggest bag of basmati rice Impulse could pick up. He had to catch his breath before he continued. “Listen, Grian, do you need to… talk, or something?”

“What?” Grian’s head whipped around from the wall of spices he was mulling over. “About what?”

Impulse hunched his shoulders up, cringing slightly. “I dunno, y’know… You’re planning your brother’s wedding to your friend while picking out my groceries for me. I’m not even sure how you found out I was grocery shopping or found me in the store. I don’t think that’s normal, healthy person behaviour.” 

“I am so completely normal and healthy!” He said just a bit too loud.

“You know you can talk to me if you need to.”

This was getting nowhere real fast. “Are you going to help me or not?”

Impulse sighed. “I’ll help.”

“Good. Then, what’s the plan?”

In the end, the plan was little more than ‘wait and see’ with a side sprinkling of putting the pair in as much direct contact as possible. This turned out to be much more work than they anticipated, however. Jimmy had always been a socialite, but he seemed to be gone every other day viewing houses or visiting locations. Meanwhile, Tango did as he does and made himself busy constantly. Every group activity Grian planned was lucky to get even one of them, and he was about to lose his damn mind.

Their big break finally showed itself one evening, when Jimmy dropped in with Grian. Well, it was more like Grian promised to drive him to do some errands and made a left turn away from the mall and directly to the ZITS house instead. A decision Jimmy was not familiar enough with the town yet to notice until it was too late. Just the sound of Jimmy’s voice managed to draw Tango upstairs to see what was going on in his kitchen, where the rest of them were chatting.

Immediately the annoying little giggles started up again. If there was one thing in this world that could make Grian try to keep them apart, it was that giggle.

“By the way, Jimmy,” Skizz piped up from where he leaned against the sink. “You still need a lift tomorrow?”

When had Jimmy found time to befriend Skizz? Who knows. Knowing the two of them they probably bumped into each other on the street and kept talking till the sun went down. Extroverts were so exhausting. (He ignored the little Impulse-ish voice nagging that Grian was also something of an extrovert.)

“Yeah, sorry, I appreciate it.”

“Where you going?” Impulse asked.

“Got another house tour.” Tango of all people replied. Maybe that wasn’t all that surprising, though, given the amount Grian has spotted Jimmy texting the past few days.

“Is that so? Will you be going with them?” Grian teased, but instead got a toothy grin back.

“Yessiree!”

Really? Inviting your crush house hunting? Was that forward or just weird? Either way, it was an opportunity. “You know, Tim, you haven’t invited me to go with you.” He whined, putting on his best puppy dog eyes. 

Unfortunately, while Jimmy’s talents were sparse, this was one area where he outranked Grian by a factor of magnitudes and had unlocked absolute immunity, or something. “Yeah. That was on purpose.” He said bluntly, not even looking away from Tango, who laughed. In fact, everyone laughed. Even Impulse, the traitor.

Grian wouldn’t give up so easily, however. “Well I think you should. So where is it?”

“What? You’ll just embarrass me, I’m not telling you!” He squeaked, finally looking at his kind, sweet, dear older brother.

“Yes, you are!”

“No, I’m not!”

And that was how Jimmy ended up in a headlock on ZITS’s kitchen floor, Impulse reluctantly using Jimmy’s phone to text Grian the address on his calendar. Tango, simp that he was, managed to distract Grian by jokingly calling Jimmy honey, forcing Grian to let go in order to pretend to hurl, during which time Jimmy made his escape back to the car. 

He won though, and the next day when Jimmy pulled up with Skizz and Tango to the house tour, Grian and Impulse were already waiting there with the realtor.

“I can’t believe you.” Jimmy dragged his hands down his face. “Don’t you have to, I don’t know, work?”

“Jokes on you, I’m my own boss.” Grian puffed up his chest.

Tango patted Jimmy on the back and turned the both of them towards the poor, confused realtor. “Let’s just get this over with.” He soothed, to which Jimmy gave him a saccharine smile.

The property was ridiculously nice. It wasn’t especially big, but it was lined by woodlands and already had a garden, albeit in need of some severe TLC. There was even an old chicken coop to the side of the house that only needed new fencing and cleaning. The house itself was a one-story cutesy cottage-like thing. It was older, but whomever had lived in it last had the wiring redone and appliances replaced. The bedroom was big, too, as they tended to be in these older houses, and the bathroom had a proper large tub. There was a spare office room with a nice big window to the garden. The garage was separate, and large enough to be a workshop. All that while being well within the range of good internet and still close enough one could walk to town if they really wanted to. 

It was, essentially, Jimmy’s dream home. The only issue Jimmy seemed to have was the fact that the wall between the living room and kitchen had been knocked out for a more modern open concept design with the largest windows in the house.

“It’d probably be a pain to heat in winter, right?” He asked no one in particular. 

Grian knew jack all about houses, and only shrugged. It still wasn’t that big, so he imagined not. Impulse and Skizz seemed to mull the idea over a little longer. Tango, though, saw an opportunity, and Grian had to give him credit because the man took it without hesitation. His arm was around Jimmy’s shoulder, toothy grin leaned in a bit too close. “Well, that sounds like a good excuse to cuddle up in bed all winter, hm?”

Jimmy’s cheeks turned pink. He muttered something under his breath that made Tango chuckle. Grian rolled his eyes towards Impulse, who seemed almost too shocked by his friend’s forwardness to notice.

More questions were asked, things Grian was glad he never had to worry about as a condo guy. Owning a home seemed like so much work, but Jimmy had lists upon lists. Of course, it was Jimmy, and even with lists he forgot certain things. But Tango seemed ready to pick up the slack with his own barrage of inquiries. 

“I think,” Jimmy said, looking at the kitchen with a bit of awe. “I think this might be it, guys.”

“Yeah?” Tango’s eyes practically sparkled with excitement. Jimmy nodded.

The realtor stepped up. “There aren’t any other serious inquiries at the moment, I think you have a good chance if you put in the asking price.” Jimmy nodded, and the realtor went off to his car to make a call.

Grian pursed his lips at his brother, though. “Are you sure you can afford that? I know you’ve saved up and all, but it’s still a lot.”

Jimmy beamed though, clearly overwhelmed with excitement. “Of course, you think we would look at houses we can’t afford?”

“I mean if I’m honest kind of, but- wait. We?”

“I’ll have you know, despite the beliefs of certain individuals, my credit score’s top notch.” Tango patted his chest proudly. “And between the two of us we have more than enough savings for the down payment.”

Grian felt the wires in his brain short circuit and reboot. An unholy screech came from his throat. “What!”

Jimmy and Tango both side-eyed each other, their awkward smiles caught between guilty and like they were ready to burst out laughing. “You… Thought I could buy a home on my own?” Jimmy asked, hiccupping in the middle.

Impulse looked just as dumbfounded. “When did you work this out?” His voice came out hoarse.

It was Tango’s turn to be confused, raising an eyebrow. “Um, months ago? I told you, Impy.”

“You said you were thinking about moving out, not buying a house with a stranger!”

“Wait-” Skizz burst out laughing, pointing at Grian and Impulse. “You guys really didn’t know?”

“No, why do you know!”

“Cause I listen to my roommates?”

“Hold on. Months ago?” Grian pushed them out of the way, getting into his brother’s face.

It seemed Tango was no longer able to hold in his laughter, leaning on Jimmy for support while Jimmy rubbed the back of his neck. “I honestly couldn’t tell if you’d actually forgotten or if this was some bit.” He admitted.

“We’ve been together for almost three years.” Tango wheezed out between cackles.

“Excuse me?” Balked Grian. “Since when? You’ve never met!” His head whipped between the two. How on earth-

A finger twirled absently in the air as Jimmy tried to explain. “Do you remember your Halloween party? The one me and Joel attended, where Tango was dressed up as an imposter?”

“Yeah?” It was the biggest party he’d ever held, how could he forget? His brow creased. “But that doesn’t make any sense, I never got to introduce you two cause you both went… home… early.” Grian’s eyes went wide as the puzzle pieces clicked into place.

Tango leaned against Jimmy’s shoulder with a smirk. “There it is.”

“Oh. My god.”

“I told you he doesn’t ever listen to me.” Jimmy groaned.

“You two-”

“Yeah.”

Grian gasp cracked. “Jimmy you slut !”

“ Excuse me? ” Jimmy shouted back in equal amounts of disbelief and anger.

Out of the corner of his eye he saw the realtor pause in the entryway, then slowly back out of view once more.

“You heard me!”

“What do you think we did!”

“Well you weren’t enjoying my party, that’s for sure!”

 “Okay, okay, everybody calm down.” Skizz stepped in, pushing Grian towards Impulse, who seemed to hold Grian back on instinct more than anything as he was still lost in shock.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Impulse asked, giving his housemate a look of betrayal. It was returned with concern.

“I did? I swear I did.”

“Dipple Dop, he told us he was busy in call with his partner all the time. He extended his work trips several times.”

“That was Timmy?” He stumbled back, leaning on the counter. “I thought he meant, like, an MMO buddy.”

“Yeah, and you certainly never told me!” Grian huffed, which Jimmy returned.

“I did tell you, but you didn’t listen! Or did you just do that thing like with Scott where you thought I wasn’t aware I was dating the guy I lived with for two months just because I told you we hadn’t-”

“You know what?” Skizz clapped his hands together. “I think we all need to just take a deep breath, okay? Everybody just breathe. In,” He took a deep breath, of which his housemates joined in while the brothers continued to glare at each other. “And out.” They all let out a long sigh.

 A brief silence fell over the group, only interrupted by a nervous knock at the door. The realtor stuck his head in, eyes darting between the group. “Um, Mister Solidarity, Mister Tek, could I speak to you now?”

“Yes, one second.” Jimmy said, voice tight. The pair left to talk outside.

Grian and Impulse went home after that, waiting for the other three to return. They said little, Grian fuming while Impulse stared at his lap like his dog just died. Zed popped in to say he was going out, at which point he was let in on the day’s events and gave them both odd looks. Had they really been the only ones who didn’t know? 

By the time everyone else arrived back at the house they’d pulled themselves together somewhat. Not entirely, but enough to ask questions without shouting.

“So, you’re really leaving?” Impulse asked, voice almost watery. Tango’s posture softened with his smile, and pulled the larger man into a big hug.

“Oh, buddy, I told you I was gonna. I’m a big boy now!”

“Yeah, but… I dunno. We’ve lived together since college. I didn’t think this would actually happen…”

Skizz rubbed his back. “Hey, he ain’t movin’ cross country, he’s just down the road. We’ll see him all the time.”

“Yeah! I promise, Impy, I ain’t going nowhere.”

The three continued to talk among each other, comforting their friend, so Grian left them be. Instead, he turned his attention onto Jimmy, who still looked huffy, with his arms crossed and a glare squarely on Grian.

“I told you.”

“Well, maybe you should have told me better.” Grian turned his nose up as an almost automatic response. Jimmy threw his arms in the air and stomped off to the doorway, and immediately Grian felt the regret. He chased after his little brother. “Wait, Tim. I’m…” A warbled wheeze escaped his throat, straining to get the dreaded word out. “Ssso-…rry... That I didn’t listen.”

The shift was near-instant, disdain laxing into smugness. “There, was that so hard?”

“Immensely.”

“Oh, come off it, you big baby.”

“I just don’t get it.” Grian grabbed his hair. “How did I miss that you two were dating? Why didn’t Tango say something when we invited him to dinner?”

“Well, it probably started with the fact that you introduce me to everyone as Tim and his boyfriend’s name is Jimmy.” He sneered, eyebrow raised.

Well, he had him there. Not that he would ever admit that to his brother’s face. “I still can’t believe you ditched my party to hook up with my friend.”

“Oh my god, we didn’t hook up!” Jimmy threw his head back. “We just went to get Mcdonald’s and watch movies because Tango almost had a panic attack at the number of people you invited and couldn’t breathe.”

“In my defence, I didn’t expect that many people to actually show up.”

“Either way, stop projecting.”

“Wh- excuse me?”

“Tango’s the same as me. I can assure you nothing like that would ever happen.”

Grian pouted. Well, at least they were happy and close by. “Fine, I’ll forgive you if you can get Tango to come to roller derby night.”

“Uh, I don’t have anything I need to be forgiven for, and I’m not going to make Tango do something he doesn’t want to do.”

“But Tim, consider: Tango falling on his butt in the most hideous disco suit.”

That gave Jimmy pause, thinking for a solid moment before a smile stretched behind his hand. “Alright, fine.”

“Yes!” Grian pumped his fist into the air, nearly smacking Impulse in the face as the group joined them.

“What’s going on out here?”

“Nothing.” Both brothers replied, matching smiles immediately getting them suspicious looks. Jimmy pushed past them to grab Tango’s hand and drag him towards the basement. “C’mon, we have to finish planning.”

“Yessir.” Tango saluted with a chuckle. 

As they retreated, Grian shouted after them. “Oh, Tango!”

“Yeah?” Bless his soul, he was too busy giving his partner a doofy look that was wiped away the second he turned to see Grian. He did his best to bore a hole through the man’s skull.

“You better watch your back. I know where you sleep.”

“Well, I’d hope so.” Grian didn’t like that grin. “Be weird if you didn’t know where your brother was.”

And that was how Grian began to plan the death of Tango Tek.

[princessniquane]

Not Okay

San/Reader

Tags: ANGST, breakup, brief Christian Yu x reader

You don’t remember what or how the both of you got here. Faces tear stained, voice hoarse and you ready to leave and call your two year relationship quits.

You couldn’t take it anymore. You couldn’t do this. Staying with him only meant heartbreak for you and you deserved better. He told you not to worry about her, she was nothing to him. She was only his assistant, nothing else.

He must have taken you as a fool. You must have taken yourself as a fool to believe him, to trust him. Now look at you. Alone, betrayed, and embarrassed because of one person, the ONLY person who should have never made you feel this way.

The person you were wanting to marry and start a family with. This person who you left your whole life to start anew with him because you believed in him. Choi fucking Sa- you can even bring yourself to say his name. Not again. Not anymore. You’re done.

You were tired of hearing his excuses. You grabbed a bag and packed some things into it, not really paying attention to what. You just needed to leave. San pleaded and begged for you not leave, to not leave him, but you heard none of it and walked out the door.

Months passed and you moved on with your life. Even though you saw the headlines of your breakup with him on the news and blogs alike, you stayed focused on your work. You don’t know what became of the assistant or him for that matter, that was all in the past now.

You have your own apartment and you’re up for a promotion. Things were looking up for you and you couldn’t feel any better! Except….no! No you will not go there! He’s obviously moved on and so should you.

Your best friend Christian organized a dinner for you even though you didn’t get the promotion, he couldn’t be more prouder of your hard work. Why couldn’t you just fall for your best friend instead of…HIM. Shaking your head to get him off your mind and enjoy this dinner.

A year later…..

“Don’t be so nervous, you got this!” Christian encourages you. There was a higher position available just calling your name, you were really the only one qualified to actually get the position but that didn’t stop you from overthinking it.

“I know I know but like….what if they already found somebody to take that spot! What if I’m just getting myself hyped up for nothing!”

“Hey hey breathe, listen to me. Everything is going to work out and be fine. You will get this position and nail the merger and buy me dinner once the deal goes through,” Christian smiles.

“Great prep talk, you just want a free dinner,” you roll your eyes but can’t help but smile back at him. “Thank you for being here, this really means a lot to me.”

The party goes on without a hitch, both companies are mingling and networking and having fun. You’re even dancing and finally forgetting about the announcement. Once you stop and take a breath from Christian and his wild antics to get you to dance with every guy he deems worthy, you go to the restroom.

After relieving yourself and washing you hands you stare at yourself in the mirror. You smile, but it doesn’t reach your eyes. Times like this you wish San was here. He would do this thing where he would put you in front of the mirror and get you to say three good things about yourself.

Fuck you missed him. Even though you’ve been doing nothing but working to keep your mind from thinking about it, about him. What he’s doing. Who he’s with. He just won’t, he never left your mind, your heart.

Fuck it. You close your eyes and take a deep breath. You open them back up and look yourself in the eyes in the mirror.

“I am beautiful.

I am intelligent.

I..I...I deserve to be loved.”

Another deep breath.

You leave the restroom only to be stopped by your name being called. It wasn’t Christian nor one of your coworkers, but him. You don’t turn around to face him, you can’t.

“Can you turn around?” He asks. You don’t move, you’re frozen in place. You’re not ready to confront him yet. “Please just look at me Baby…” he pleads. You bite your lower lip to stop the tears you can feel trying to drop. You can feel him behind you but he doesn’t touch you, if he does, you’ll break down in front of him.

He walks around to face you and you can’t help but look up at him. You’re drawn to him, you always have been. He still looks handsome, but he’s also looks sad, broken even. Why would he be broken? He was the one that cheated! Why should he feel broken when he betrayed me!

You start to get angry at him again the more pitiful he looked. You start walking around him to get away from him before you do something you won’t regret, promotion be damned. He quickly grabs your arms to stop you.

“Wait! Wait please, I just want to talk.”

“I have NOTHING to say to you.”

“Baby please just listen ok?”

“Why so you can tell me more excuses?!”

“I’m sorry ok! I’m sorry…..I know I’ve said it hundreds of times and I’ll say it more, if you just-“

“No San! I’m done.”

San falls to his knees, sobbing your name and how sorry he is. You walk away from him and back to the party planting a smile on your face. You don’t see San again after that, not that you were looking for him anyways. Everyone cheers when you are announced for the position, you put an even bigger smile on your face but you’re not as happy as you could be.

It was a couple days later on a rainy day when there was a knock on your door. You wondered who it could be. Opening the door you gasped at the sight. San was standing there in his work suit drenched from head to toe.

You couldn’t believe he was here. Why would he be here? Your eyes meet when he looks up and your heart drops. You open the door wider letting him in and grabbing a towel. You go in a closet and grab some clothes for him.

When you left him you didn’t realize you packed some of his stuff as well. You point him in the direction of the bathroom and start to make some tea for the both of you. While he’s in the shower you’re panicking, walking back and forth in your kitchen.

“Fuck fuck fuck…..”

You don’t realize how long you’ve been at it until you hear someone clear their throat. Stopping, you look at San whose all dry now but his expression still hasn’t changed from the sad kicked puppy look. Just then, the kettle whistles, you grab it off the stove and make the tea. You can feel him behind you again.

He grabs his cup and goes to the window where it’s still storming outside. You don’t know what to say but he’s here and you don’t know what to do with yourself. He turns to you. “I know I’m asking a lot but, can I stay the night? Or at least until the storm settles?”

You know you shouldn’t give in but you do. “Only til the storm settles.” You take your tea back to your corner where you were reading and doesn’t say anything, just watches you. You don’t have to look to know that.

“Beautiful…”

“What?” You say. You almost didn’t hear what he says but you’re so aware that he’s so close to you.

“Nothing,” he smiles to himself.

You glare at him on the opposite side of the living room. I will not let him get to me.

A/n: this was actually suppose to be pure smut but angst said nuh uh!

Buy me a ☕️ if you enjoyed! Like and reblog as well!

[this-lovely-universe]

Do you have any tips for lore posts or open starters? I have no clue what to do and I feel as though if I make one I'm just copying someone else or something like that, but I know Im just overthinking.

Okay so I tend to come up with like backstories for my characters, and for at least how my bad works, there's usually certain scenes I want to write. Open starters are literally just anything that I can write and work for my characters.

As for the copying, trust me, you're not alone. If you're afraid of copying a certain account's open starter idea, I would just write it still, than put at the top of your post 'inspired by _______' and tag them. If it's a generalised thought of copying, don't worry. You can't go around creating things without having similar ideas to others.

Besides, it's not like your copying it word for word. Especially for open starters, there are so many common ones. I know that a common one is a character nearly drowning.

It's okay to draw ideas for other accounts, but just make sure to tag the people where you got it from, and if two people have the same idea, well yippie kye yay, great minds think alike.

Most of the time, I have zero clue what to post. Open starters usually take me forever to choose an idea for. I could care less if I've seen the concept 8000 times, I just love interacting with rp accounts.

Don't fret, we're all feelign the same thing. If you're really scared, just do an OOC saying 'sorry if I copied anyone' and just write.

Be free my little writer friend! Give us the lore drops and open starters to feed us (And tag me in them)

[sillygreenrat]

Hello hello fellow Sam fan!

I like to know if you yourself have any smokeybat fluff or head canons?

HELLO I DO I DO I DO these sillies plague my brainspace like literally NO tomorrow hello hello hello!!!!

so while i ship smokeybats OBVIOUSLY i also ship nuzi (obviously x2) and bluntbiscuits (or as i call it bakery) also so little doses of N might be scattered amidst these headcanons (and maybe hopefully my bakery propoganda will soon filter through more people (:<)

Sam is one of the ONLY drones to remember Uzi's name, hes just too high half the time for it to come to his mind straight away, so it always comes off as ignorance. (The first time Sam said her name outwardly without her having to say it beforehand caught her offguard so bad she ran into the bathroom to stare into the mirror for about 10 minutes to recollect herself)

(this counts as just a general headcanon for Uzi but) Uzi LOVES to dumpster dive, rummages around and looks for things, and just so happens to have a collection of old novelty magnets she thought looked either cool or cute that she gave to Sam once they were actually in a relationship (he now wears them all the time) (his favorites are a fat ass piece of 'pepperoni pizza' which he has no idea what it is, and a really cute evil bat that reminds him of Uzi) (probably why she grabbed it too, thought of herself, great minds think alike)

More on magnets, they ABSOLUTELY get high together. Uzi seems like the type to get overly anxious (either from other people or her own accord) and Sam probably understands that and probably tells her that they're good for that sort of thing (he uses them for overthinking and anxiety as well). Wouldn't force it on her or anything but would probably nudge a mag or two towards her and let her know that he'd be there if things were rocky for her. She ends up loving it and now he, Uzi (and sometimes N) make a pillow fort and mag it up on occasion.

Sam is no less of a freak, but hes incredibly quiet about it. Never really FELT feelings like that until (what we call episode 4) hapened. Continuously replays the scenes in his head of Uzi closing in on him and fawns over her evil giggling EVERY damn time. (is also into the biting and the gnawing and the tearing but we can ignore that for a later date //shot)

Sam loves sharing his hoodies with Uzi!!!! Always tends to find and get oversized ones so he knows they'll fit her (hes just a little taller than her).

Love bites, that is all <3 take that as you will

theres probably more deep down in the recesses of my mind but thats all ill give for now lsdfgjdkjfhg i love these silly drones i could talk abt them for HOURS

[davros42]

Rewatching Classic Doctor Who, some episodes I haven't seen in years, some of the animated reconstructions I haven't seen at all.

The Sensorites AKA Mind Control AKA Serial G

I enjoy this one a lot. It is kind of weird and occasionally cheap (which makes it prototypical Doctor Who, let's be honest) but the script from Peter R. Newman (his only contribution to the canon) puts in a lot of work, trying to build out the Sensorite psychology/sociology.. or at least as much as you can in about two and a half hours.

It makes for a surprisingly dense story, crammed with world building, including the first description of what would eventually be identified as Gallifrey.

The TARDIS lands on a ship crewed by dead people. Ok, not dead, just sleeping but also in cardiac arrest. But warm. But dead. Until they aren't. Look, it's a hook, ok? Just don't overthink it. It is revealed this is Earth's future (the first story to explicitly take place in the future, relative to 1964 at least) so the Doctor tries to leave before Ian and Barbara hear some spoilers. But the TARDIS has been sabotaged to prevent them from making this a one episode long storyline.

The Sensorites have been psychically knocking out the ship's crew to keep them from escaping and telling Earth about the Sense-Sphere's rich molybdenum deposits. Molybdenum (atomic number 42) is used to alloy steel, as a fertilizer, as a catalyst, as a lubricant, and to make orange pigment. So, of course, Earth wants to do a colonialism. Or at least, that is Earth's reputation to the Sensorites.

Sorry, the Earthlings are the bad guys in this one.

Barbara and Susan meet a crazy man. Instead of just going to sleep, the Sensorites' psychic attacks have made him crazy. They get locked in a room, hijinks ensue. A Sensorite plays peeping tom (above). Everyone except Barbara goes down to the Sense-Sphere because Jacqueline Hill needs a break after carrying the show for this long. The Sensorites are having a plague and enlist the Doctor to help. Just in time as Ian catches the plague. Which turns out to be Earth survivors poisoning the water supply to kill the Sensorites who they believe they are at war with. The Doctor actually chooses to remain and help for once: some character growth! This growth is immediately reverted at the end of the episode when after some mild criticism about his piloting ability, The Doctor declares he's dumping Ian and Barbara wherever they land next. A man who never would... get his companions home safely.

There's also a strong theme of prejudice. The Sensorites seem extremely aggressive when we first meet them, through descriptions from the Earth ship's crew but in reality are as varied in attitude as humans. The City Administrator hates humans (which.. they're poisoning the Sensorites and are probably going to do a colonialism, so.. fair) and exploits the old "they all look alike to me" to kill the Second Elder, steal his clothes, and impersonate him to the TARDIS crew. The Sensorites have terrible vision so they can only tell each other apart by their clothes at range. The Sensorites mistake Susan for a "human" because, again, they all look alike to them, so she has to set them straight: she's not from Earth. Both sides of the story spend a fair amount of time misunderstanding and miscommunicating before trust can be secured. The real antagonist of the story is prejudice. Series 1 and we're woke as Hell, baby. Get used to it.

Like I said, there's a lot going on here. It's a lot of fun: political machinations, back and forths, traumatized survivors, attempted colonial genocide. The Sensorites are the best fleshed out alien race we've seen so far. It's a shame that Peter R. Newman suffered from crippling writer's block after this, his last work, he has a real talent for world building. "It all started out as a mild curiosity in the junkyard and now it's turned out to be quite a great spirit of adventure." is one of the all time great Doctor Who lines. And of course his brief description of Susan's "home planet" echoes down through the ages as the first mention of Gallifrey, put some respect on the gentleman's name. Daphne Dare and Jill Summers go to town on the Sensorites' costuming, but sadly it ends up looking kind of cheap. Digital restoration giving the story a visual clarity that would have been hard to attain on original broadcast probably not helping here. I think the masks have a certain charm though, full marks for effort at least. The set design is quite good too, even if it starts to become clear that there really is just one, tiny, aqueduct set.

Next up: Reign of Terror, the end of Series 1. Will the Doctor make good on his promise to dump Ian and Barbara? (no, he won't *insert "London 1965!" meme here*)

[hardly-a-p3rson]

post whatever you want, it's literally your blog. there's no reason for people to judge you, some things might not suit everyone but i doubt that you posting about your kinks will harm anyone. pay more attention to yourself and what you want instead of what anyone else does or doesn't want. also, give yourself a break and stop worrying about it so much

hahaha I just posted a post saying fuck it! Great minds think alike dude. I will I'm just being silly and overthinking it

[cheerful-sixears]

✕✕✕-✕✕✕-✕✕✕ ✕-Name: Turbine, aka, Turbias Watts ✕-Nickname[s]: Turbie, Turbo, “Keely”, ‘Turbias’ ✕-Age- 29 [human] Years ✕-Species: Illuminite Cybertronian Protohuman; [formerly human, in most AU's] ✕-Alt. Mode: A rat-tailed mole shaped rodent ✕-With T-Cog: Resembles a Dune Buggy and a Go-Kart combined ✕- Species Note: Illuminites are a branch of Cybertronian miners that live in the underground tunnels of an unstable moon orbiting Cybertron. Illos was a mining moon rich with light-source gemstone materials, called luminite, that are extremely reactive to Energon sources. When combined properly and carefully, it creates a reactive and glowing source of safe to consume energon. Not much more is documented or historically written, as allegedly, the moon was drained of its resources a decade before the war really kicked off.

[planning on elaborating further on Illos and the Illumintes, soon. When I can get around to it. My docs are everywhere, nowadays, lmao.] ✕-Faction: Decepticon ✕-Gender: Xenogender; Demiboy ✕-Pronoun[s]: he/him/his ✕-Spark Type: Branched Vitreous Positive [when the human heart is absent/transplanted] ✕-Spark Sibling: KickStorm [seen above next/left to him] ✕✕✕-✕✕✕-✕✕✕ ✕-Moral Alignment: Neutral Good ✕-MBTI: INFP-T [Turbulent Mediator] -✕✕✕- ✕-Personality: Turbie is a soulful and introspective mech, displaying a strong understanding of emotions and an ability to deeply empathize with others. He has a keen sense of the world around himself and often finds beauty in all aspects and milestones of life, from the simplest joys to the most profound experiences. Turbine's gentle and intuitive nature makes him highly attuned to the emotions and needs of both his friends, providing a comforting presence in times of distress. Creativity flows through Turbie's veins, manifesting in various forms. He has a particular talent for Energon and creative poetry. Turbine's imagination allows him to approach cooking as a form of artistic expression, combining flavors and experimenting with new techniques. His dishes are not only delicious but also visually appealing, showcasing his innate ability to transform ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Similarly, in creative poeticism, Turbine weaves together words with a creative, flowing grace, capturing emotions and painting vivid images within the minds of readers. Turbine is highly protective of his loved ones. The loyalty and dedication he exhibits towards his family and friends know no bounds. He goes to great lengths to ensure the safety and happiness of those he holds dear. Turbie's protective instincts extend beyond physical safety to emotional well-being as well, always ready to offer a listening ear and provide support. While Turbie's personality brings forth many strengths, it also presents some challenges. He can be prone to self-doubt and overthinking, constantly questioning his own abilities and decisions. Turbine's sensitive nature makes him susceptible to taking criticism personally and sometimes struggling to assert himself confidently. However, his resilience and determination ultimately prevails, pushing him to overcome these obstacles and grow stronger. In summary, Turbie embodies the characteristics of a very caring and empathic personality. His empathetic nature, protective instincts, creative pursuits, and a quest for authenticity makes him a truly genuine and reflective individual. With his loving and introspective presence, Turbine brings comfort, inspiration, and a touch of poetic beauty to the lives of their human and Cybertronian friends and allies, alike. ✕✕✕ ✕✕✕-✕✕✕-✕✕✕ ✕-Spark Mate/Conjunx Endura: Megatron ✕-Close To: Knock Out & Breakdown ✕-Occupation: Tactician and Mechanic ✕-Rank: Megatron’s 2nd [when Starscream is absent] ✕-Hobby or two: creative writing and poetry, creating new Cybertronian/human flexible recipes, or at least trying. ✕–Playlist: -Dead By April - My Tomorrow -Lifehouse - Halfway Gone -Alter Bridge - Open Your Eyes

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

Gonna share Turbie here. One of my two current TF oc's right now. More of my projects and works nowadays are self-indulgent, but I hope to expand further, creatively, on a more stable, later date for myself to create more expansive stuff. A lot of the art here is by @starscrumpt or in direct/heavy collaboration with me. Turbias is still in heavy development, but I'm gaining creative momentum, slowly but surely.

[starry-night-rose]

I would like to pitch for a ship in the idol au-

Ellis x Victoria-

You never know tbh, Ellis could be having gay panik every time Victoria talks to her💀

This is a joke I swear-

On the other hand my brain is weird for making me overthink a potential "Victoria x reader" for the idol AU😭🤚

OH DONT WORRY I WAS COMPLETELY THINKING IT TOO HAHA! Great minds think alike as they say!

I definitely have to say that Ellis definitely has a small crush on Victoria in this au like pretty Fae lady wants to be our mentor! I might as well just pass out! Ellis is just one hell of a bisexual disaster in this au so that might as well encapsulate it!

Like Ellis has a crush on both Victoria and Malleus in this au just is funny to me like imagine they are having an argument and Ellis is just watching like “Oh god, who do I side with? They’re both are so pretty”

ANYWAYS GREAT MINDS THINK ALIKE

Will Victoria x Ellis happen? Who knows!

[biaswreckingfics]

“Rewind and relax” as in rereading blurred lines bc it's my absolute comfort fic lol yeah no but srsly work and the holidays have been super stressful but I'm just looking forward to the new year's eve party I'm going to (read: get funny tipsy and find a nice person to kiss on midnight lol) BUT HOW HAVE YOU BEEN??? IS LIFE TREATING YOU WELL?? feels like ages since I've dropped by to send an ask :-)

Also on the note of me being way to invested... What if...

Sangyeon and y/n keep their relationship a secret bc of his very strict rules (as we have already seen in the uncomfortable covo in chap1) but of course people find out and there is a scene mirroring the one from the first chapter with y/n walking around the building and everyone looking at her and whispering not bc y/n is the poor new employee working for the cold and scary boss but bc y/n is now the employee that has a thing going on with the boss and rumors just run wild and Eric accidentally reveals all of the rumors and things the other coworkers whisper behind them?? YES DRAMA

AND BC IM ON A ROLL LOL what if..

Sangyeon brings/buys his own lunch at this very specific place and sooner or later there is a cup of coffee or maybe a sandwich or other lunch stuff appearing out of nowhere at y/n’s desk and it takes her a hot minute to figure out its him and what if y/n is so bold and starts to share the lunch with him or maybe does the return with bringing him something and just putting it on his desk?? Or let them leave sweet (or spicy hehe) notes for each other?? Or let him have a *fake* client/meeting in his schedule just too spend some time with her without the others noticing?? Oh my, there are endless possibilities as to where you'll bring this story!! So exciting :-)

Also,,, you know what they say? Great minds think alike or smth like that lmao ;-) or maybe you are great at foreshadowing and I overthink all the details and end up picking up stuff like this lol or maybe there is a camera over your shoulder?? Who knows ;-)

Feel hugged and a big spoonful of motivation for you <3 - what if anon

....That's it. I'm about to start tearing up the walls bc istg it's like you've seen my notes 😭😭 what is this 😭😭 how are you doing this 😭😭😂😂 I'm cracking up lol. I guess we do think alike!!

Though I won't be giving away what happens, you've hit some of the nails on the head lol. Expect these kinds of situations in the near future and even more 😈😈!! Also, can we just... the fact that you immediately called out Eric as being the messy one 💀💀

This time of year seems to always be the most stressful for everyone, but I hope you're able to get some down time now that they're mostly over with!! (If relaxing is you reading BL over and over, then I absolutely encourage you 😈😈, and not just for personal reasons!! Lol.) I hope your NYE party is super fun and you have a blast!! I will also hopefully be getting tipsy and kissing someone at midnight lol

I've been doing good!! I'm happy that Christmas is over bc if I spend one more freaking penny... 😭😭. Istg I act like I'm a rich bitch when it comes to buying gifts for my family and friends. You get a gift, and you get a gift! Over here acting like I'm Oprah 🙄🙄 lmao

[genshin-impact-writings]

JJ !!! STARSHINE!!! i hope that you're okay, but being not is okay as well ♡

a distraction you seek, a distraction you shall receive! — 🪄

I am... I just tend to overthink things and worry too much sometimes. Idk. 🙈

And omg, that's the cutest thing I've read in a while, thank you so much, honeybun. 🥺🥰 (It kinda reminds me of one of the blurbs I wrote for my advent calendar, those two fics could definitely be set in the same timeline. :D Just another proof that great minds think alike!)

[cherry-romper]

hey! hope you’re having a fantastic day. wanted to request a OP! reader saving reno, maybe he thinks he’s about to die and BAM reader comes in and saves him and then patches him up, comfort/fluff please! thank you for feeding my delusions:)

-🐟

Reno x OP!Reader

Better late than never >:D

Warnings; Strong violence, themes of spiders throughout

Contains; GN!reader, comfort/fluff

Word count; 2072

‘How many of these bastards are there?!’ Frustration coursed through you; your back pressed against the ruins of an office building. Sweat laced your brows as you relentlessly cut down the continuous onslaught of 8-legged yoju. You didn’t know how long you’d been fighting, nor did you care, if the yoju kept coming, you’d keep fighting. 

Using your gun as a knife, you pierced through the belly of a yoju that had leaped off the wall next to you. It cried out in pain, its grotesque pincers mindlessly biting and slashing the air, a desperate attempt to taste your blood. Staring the beast down, you clamped hard on the trigger, sending a blast of energy deep into the yoju. The shot eviscerated the creature’s core, what remained shook as it curled itself around your gun. Grimacing at the sight, you quickly kicked the carcass off before shooting another that stampeded towards you. 

You knew it wasn’t smart to stick around. You were growing tired, and your max output was decreasing by the second. Soon you doubted having enough power to even shoot through the yoju’s shells.

Why did it have to be spiders? You thought. Fear creeped its way into your mind. These yoju felt different from the rest. Their sheer number was second only to the ant yoju, but these had the ants in size and power. Just looking at them gave you the heebie-jeebies. 

This was not how you planned on dying, but there was nowhere to go. The original area for extraction had been overrun, your best choice was to wait for a new one to be set. 

But what about Reno? The little voice in your head sent you spinning. He had updated his position on the radio about 20 minutes ago, claiming to be headed towards the old extraction site on the very road you were on now. 

It was a gamble, any second you could be overrun and devoured by the monsters further down the street, but it was a risk you had to take to get to him.

Sucking in a breath, you took a brave step forward and began your assault. You kept your form tight, and you gun secure against your shoulder. You moved fast and precise, keeping each movement deliberate and every blast powerful. 

You stepped over debris and yoju alike, laying waste to anything that moved. This is what you’d been trained for. You couldn’t call yourself a Defence Force officer if you couldn’t even protect yourself. 

The more you progressed, the worse the streets became. 

Arachnid and human corpses lay bloody. The walls were painted in a strange, silky sting. You slowed your pace down, taking a moment to examine your surroundings. 

Your eyes widened at the horrors above you. Hanging corpses, wrapped in web, shook and squirmed. The people trapped inside were still alive. 

Your blood ran cold. These poor people would suffocate if you didn’t act quickly. The idea that Reno could be in one of these cocoons washed a wave of anger over you. 

The more you stared at the gruesome sight before you, the more the absence of spiders dawned on you. They were nowhere to be seen, but you could feel their beady eyes on you. The world seemed to stop for a minute. Impending doom taking hold. Your mind raced to find the right course of action. 

‘Don’t overthink, just do’. You recalled Reno words. He had uttered them to you after you froze up during training. 

You couldn’t afford to freeze up again. If you did, you’d be a midnight snack for some 8-eyed freak. 

You braced your legs and unsheathed the blade from behind your back. Leaping into action, you began to cut down web after web. You bounced off buildings and walls, taking great care with your footing to not trigger any vibrations. You freed the hanging cocoons, lowering them carefully to the ground. 

Quickly, you gathered them into a pile on the ground, trying you best to not get stuck to them, all the while, keeping your eyes peeled for any movement, ready to strike at the slightest noise. 

Removing the web from the faces of your fellow officers, you sighed in relief, they were all still breathing. No Reno, you thought. Shushing them, you asked for a sit rep. 

They relayed to you that a larger Kaiju had decorated this place. The cocoons they were in weren't the only ones. Deep into the ticker part of the web system, this beast had dragged more officers. In a shaky voice, one of the officers told you that the thing was cannibalistic.

You looked around to the smaller yoju corpses in disbelief. It had killed its own kind?  This had never been seen before. You attempted to use your radio but to no avail, the webs seemed to be jamming your signal. 

With no other choice, you stared down into the webbed tunnel system that lay ahead you. You knew what had to be done. 

“Get out of here,” you commanded, “it’s not safe for you. Stay together, find somewhere with better signal and call for extraction far from this place.” Handing your gun over to one of the officers, you gave them a sad smile. They knew it best not to argue with you, your mind was made up. 

You removed your mask; it would be no help to you in the upcoming fight. Taking you blade, you wiped it clean on your forearm. Once you were sure the remaining officers were out of sight, you walked over to where a thick string connected to the floor. You sucked in a breath before flicking a small tune on it. It sent a vibration into the thick section of the tunnel. 

You waited a moment, anticipation eating away at you. Then you heard a sticky scurrying and the webs around you started to shake. Due to the web’s movement, there was no telling where the kaiju would appear from. You positioned yourself in the middle, you blade held tightly in your hands. 

Silence followed. The creature had stopped moving. You scanned the abyss for any sign on it, but there was nothing. You steadied your breathing, circling on the spot to get a better look at all the tunnel openings, hoping to catch a glimpse of it; a leg, the shine of an eye, the hump of its back, but there was nothing. Only the scarcity of its presence. 

Your eyes darted around, panic and fear overtaking your every sense. You couldn’t see it, but you could feel it. It was foreboding, like you were already caught in its web. Now, you understood. It was playing with its food. That’s why it had kept they others alive. Blood must taste better when it is laced with fear. 

You calmed yourself as much as the adrenaline would let you. It was here, somewhere, you just had to find it. Straining your ears, you listened for any audible cue. To your delight, there was a faint clicking sound to your left, the beast was readying its pincers. 

Found you.

With a cry you slashed at the webs to your left, taking the kaiju by surprise. It shrieked in pain. You’d sliced through two of its legs, relieving it the appendages. A smug smirk play at your lips. “You shouldn’t have underestimated me,” you chuckled lowly, tracking the creature as it ran circles around you. 

It was huge, quadruple the size of the yoju you’d previously battled. You could see every hair on its dark, mud-coloured body, as though it were covered in needles. It spouted of head of 10 great, bulging eyes and razor like pincers. They snapped and clicked as it ran effortlessly in and out of the webs. It was fast, faster than you’d anticipated, but not fast enough. 

Predicting its movement, you threw your blade, lodging it deep in one of its many eyes. Following quickly behind it, you leaped next to the beast as it swayed and shuddered, not giving it time to recover. Pulling the blade from its eye, you sliced across its face, taking out its bottom row of orbs. A deep blood-lust compelled you to keep stabbing. 

The kaiju wailed, thrashing around trying to get you off it. Dodging its pincers, you used the handle of your blade as a step and twisted your body into a seated position on its back, unsheathing the blade as you went. 

Now, mounted on top of this abomination, you brought down your blade into its head. The kaiju spasmed, gargling on its own blood, as its legs gave out. It fell with a thump to the ground, paralysed. Its core was located in its rump. It watched helplessly as you dismounted. Wiping your blade clean on its back, you spat at the creature. 

Positioning your sword, you sunk it deep into its back, taking pleasure in watching the life leave its eyes. You stood victorious next to its corpse. 

Adrenaline still pumping in your veins, you made a mad dash for where the creature had emerged. Wasting no time, you began hacking away at the webs like they were plants in a forest. The only thought on your mind was Reno. 

What if he was dead already? What if you were too slow? Too weak? Your mind wandered and raced as you chopped away at the white strings. 

Soon, you could see the silhouette of a cocoon, backlit by the moon. The sight made you cut faster, crawling thought the sticky silk, pulling your limbs free where needed. 

Once you reached it, a sinking feeling befell you. It wasn’t moving, and it was drenched in blood. 

No! Please don’t let it be him!

Balancing yourself on the bed of sting, you freed the person from their prison. Brushing away the residue from their face, you could see it was Reno. 

Your heart skipped a beat seeing his sickly pale skin. He’d lost so much blood. Two large holes adorned his abdomen. Cradling him in your arms, you checked for a pulse. 

Relief hit you like a train when felt the rhythmic beating of his heart. It was slow, but it was there. A thankful smile graced your lips. You couldn’t help but hold him closer to you. Resting your head on his, you began to rock, coming down from the high of the adrenaline. 

You weren’t sure how long you stayed like that before he began to stir. His face scrunched up at the immediate pain he felt upon awakening. Memories came flooding back to him and with them panic. 

He began to thrash around only for you to steady him. “It’s okay,” you reassured, “it’s me, you’re safe.”

Bewildered, his big orbs stared up at you. His hands shakily made their way down to his chest, his breathing quickened at the sight of his mangled body. You quieted him, “don’t panic. Let your suit repair your tissue.” 

Sure enough, the suit had begun the healing process, and his wounds were starting to close.

His voice coarse and throat dry, Reno coughed up blood and phlegm. Though he tried, he couldn’t seem to put together a sentence. His hand searched for yours, which you gladly gave to him. 

He looked so confused, so lost. It broke your heart. Your eyes stung at the threat of tears. Keeping yourself composed, you gave him your best smile, squeezing his hand, letting your body language talk for you. 

Gulping a few times, he began to speak, “I’m-ugh-I’m glad it’s you.”

You knitted your brows, confused as to what he meant. You opened you mouth to query him, but he stopped you before you could. “I’m glad you’re the one who save me, I-” he spluttered “I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

He smiled the best he could, and you giggled back, heat rising in your cheeks. The moment was interrupted however by bright lights and the thrumming of a helicopter overhead. The spotlight beamed down on the two of you through the webs, you both shielded your eyes from the light.

“Thank god,” you breathed, looking back down at Reno. He gazed back at you, searching deep into your eyes. You both let out a laugh, smiling at each other like idiots. Slowly you came to rest your head on his, your hand still firmly in his grip, happy to finally be going home together.

[myhumanexperience]

I don’t find myself to be reliable. This time I don’t mean not showing up when I’m supposed to or things alike. I mean that I can’t trust myself anymore. I can’t count on myself. I don’t believe myself and maybe I don’t believe in myself. This is not new but I’ve had better moments of trusting myself in the past. Right now I’m having a particularly hard time doing so.

Sometimes when I make decisions, I become so consumed by the idea of that decision that it becomes unquestionable. I am quick to jump to a final conclusion. In some way I am easily convinced. But that’s quite contradictory because I also overthink everything. I guess that makes me feel never fully convinced of anything.

Anyways, the point is that I have a decision to make and I’m already convinced of what to do. There’s no reason to entertain the other side. I’m ready and I’ve made up my mind. But I can’t trust my mind with that. I am realizing my cycle. My pattern that I can’t get out of. I leave school because I realize I hate it and it takes up my energy in ways I don’t want it to and also I don’t actually know what I want to do in school, then I’m happy for a bit without school until I realize how bored I am and I start to worry about making it in life/being successful. And suddenly schools sounds great. I’m back in school, I’m motivated as ever, I’m ready to go for it all, then I start realizing how hard it is and how I don’t know what I even want from school. And then, I’m back in the loop.

I have a bad habit of never finishing things and it makes me feel horrible about myself. It feels like…a bad habit. It nags at my perfectionism and it’s dissatisfying.

So now im stuck. The right and satisfying answer is to stay in school and finish a degree.

The answer that I’m ready to make is to leave and pursue a career already.

Although the idea of staying in school feels right, I can’t help but think about how I cannot see myself graduating. But if I don’t stay in school, I worry I will feel stuck and I’ll never progress. I worry I’ll never make it and honestly I don’t believe that I can commit to the dedication building a career without a degree. But then I think about actually graduating and how regardless of a degree or not, I will have to build a career. I just have the choice of starting now or later.

The careers that most interest me don’t need a degree. They might help but they don’t need one. The ones I’m interested now at least. They are all mostly self-built and purely experiential.

So then I think, why am I in school. Things like skill-share exist and getting certification at technical schools exist.

I feel sometimes that school a safety net or some extra time to avoid actually doing anything. I guess I kinda feel that with a degree, a career will be set out for me. That things would be easier and I’d have to do less hard work. But I forget that school is hard work. It’s a different kind of dedication than not going to school. They are not competitive. Not going school and building a career is experiential and hands on. Going to school to build a career is mental and intellectual.

I think that this is good but I think that regardless of a degree or not, I will eventually have to work to build my career. I recently feel as though school is kinda stopping me from the actual experience. School is all theory. So you’re motivated by the theoretical idea of a career. For some people, that’s enough. While I am in school, I feel like I am being allowed too much space to ponder about what I want to do, leaving my stuck, overwhelmed and overworked. I am sorry of forced to think about my future and the long-term.

Idk if this is a bad thing but I don’t think I want to think long term anymore. I want to do things simply because I enjoy them now and then it may take me wherever it will. I am just tired of being so concerned for things that are not in my control right now. My future taunts me and I’m tired of thinking about it all the time. I want my life now to be about my life now. I want to experience more and see what I like and what I don’t. I don’t want to theorize about what I like, I want to experience it. I just want to be here, now and in this moment.

Right now, I am interested in event planning and event coordinating and creative directing. So I want to try it. I don’t want to sit in a classroom and learn about it, I want to experience it already. I want to start moving already. I am tired of the stagnancy.

I appreciate learning and am very passionate about learning things in an organized way but if I want to do that again, maybe I’ll do something more short term like a diploma, a certificate or skill share. I think I’ve learned the most career advancing things through my actual tangible experiences, not so much through school. Just working at Lou’s has taught me so much. Going to vici and trying to be a skincare person taught me what I don’t want in a job. Doing a podcast taught me what I love about video creating and what I hate. These hands on experiences have brought me the most valuable information about what I want in a career.

I just think I might learn better from experience. I’ve read about things my whole life in preparation for things and in fear of the thing. I’ve been reading about things my whole life instead of experiencing these things. I think I’m just getting tired of reading and wondering. I want to do things. School keeps me safe from the scariest journey I think. Which is actually taking everything I learned and doing it.

I think this decision makes sense to me. I think if I am going to leave school, I should leave on a good note and good effort.

[nighlok]

Virtual Sketchbook 1

1.) Hello, my name is Sammy. My little fact about me is overworking myself and overthinking things (too much). I'm usually a quiet person but it's a pleasure to meet you. I'm very sorry for my sudden addition to this classroom, and my inability to contact the teacher earlier.

For my assignment, I decided to use Hokusai's 'The Great Waves off Kanagawa' (1823-1829)

Hokusai (1760-1849) was 60 years old when he created his most famous print. (Source 2) This artwork was produced in the 19th century (ex. January 1,1801 - December 31,1900). "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" is regarded as one of the most iconic pieces of Japanese art history. (Source 1) 'The Great Wave off Kanagawa' was painted in 'Kanagawa-juku' ('juku' means relay station in Japanese), at one of the inns on the Eastern Sea Route, called the 'Tokaido' or the 'Tokaido Highway.' (Source 1) 'Tokaido', meaning 'near to the coast', was a very important route during the Edo period (1603-1868 AD) (Source 1) When I first saw Hokusai's "The Great Wave Off Kanagawa", I thought it as an old tapestry, a spiteful and threating piece of history, an example of how the sea can be both angry and sad. That it was an omen for misfortunate sailors and travelers alike. On the closer inspection, however, I began to see it in a very different light. The duality of conflict and tranquility between the destruction wrought by the incessant violent waves, the disintegrating ships to the weariness of the sailors, and the power of the open sea in comparison to the calm serenity of the golden sky, gives it a kind of mantra of heaven and earth.

Source 1: The Great Wave Off Kanagawa: 5 Little Known Facts About Hokusai's Masterpiece. Edited by Lou Mo, TheCollector.com, 25 Aug. 2021, www.thecollector.com/the-great-wave-off-kanagawa/Links to an external site.. Accessed 1 July 2023.

Source 2:

The Great Wave off Kanagawa: 20 Fascinating Facts about the Famous Japanese Print. SurferToday.com, www.surfertoday.com/surfing/the-great-wave-off-kanagawa-fascinating-facts-about-the-famous-japanese-printLinks to an external site.. Accessed 1 July 2023.

2.) I made this Valentine's Day project with my mom when I was in elementary school. For me, this piece symbolizes the special bond between me and my mom, because I remember her always helping me with my projects when I was a little boy.

It was a big heart-shaped decorative bag. We would sit together for hours, cutting out shapes, doing arts and crafts together, collecting candy and cards on Valentine's Day.

It was embarrassing to carry it (as a boy), but many people thought it was cute, (plus it was full of candy), which made the project even more enjoyable.

I think this Valentine's Day project was one of the first moments when we connected creatively. I felt it was an important part of my mom's life, because it represented that period of my life.

3.) The 'burden' I bring with me when I look at artworks is that I am too absorbed in it. I am very careful with others. I have a knack for reading people's minds and predicting their behavior, but this sense of insecurity and shyness makes it difficult for me to get close to new people. This makes it difficult and frustrating to develop meaningful relationships.

I am 20-year-old Male. Both of my parents are from Haiti, so I would be Black/African American. I was born in Broward County, Florida. I currently live in North Port. For fun, I love crafting and designing are something I'm interested in, and I think they would make a great future career for me. In particular, I love practicing soccer, reading, gaming, watching cartoons and anime, and martial arts. Another quirk is that I love music and singing (although I'm shy about this passion and usually keep it a secret). What makes me unique might me my passion for art itself, I always had it rough and believed that nothing was perfect. Which is why I always found it amazing that I could create something out of nothing, that I could turn something that seemed like trash into a treasure. It is about being someone who can do things on their own and master most of the arts.

4.) My Collage

[confessionsofanarcissisticbitch]

I spent a whole week with you and your family and at least once a day they called me by her name. Your girlfriend. Maybe we look alike? Sound alike? Are alike? Maybe I’m overthinking it, but it hurt. Because we do look alike. We sound alike. We are alike. And you didn’t choose me. You chose her. Maybe she looks better? Sounds better?

I’ve known your family longer, but her name comes to mind first? The cherry on top is that I actually like her, because we’re alike we could be great friends. But she’s in my place, and I can’t take it. I’ve known you longer. I’ve loved you longer.

Time isn’t everything but it sure as fuck feels like it whenever I have to watch you two live the life I wanted with you.

[finger-lakes-ghostbusters]

[BEGIN VIDEO PLAYBACK]

[Security camera footage shows a room off to the side of where the holiday festivities are taking place, Damien sitting alone and hanging his head as if in thought. Sounds of music and general merry-making filter from below, but he seems to show little to no reaction to them.

After a moment, Taya enters the room as well, sitting down next to him with a soft smile.]

Penny for your thoughts, old man?

[Damien visibly startles as he turns towards her, trying and failing to keep his face neutral.]

Heh. That obvious, huh?

[Though her expression is off-screen, Taya's gentle smile can be heard through her tone.]

It's been obvious to a lot of people, honey. That you're getting withdrawn again. And who knows what else. And I thought we went over healthy coping mechanisms after all that nonsense with Zygna happened.

[A soft grumble. Damien leans away from her.]

Eva put you up to this, didn't she?

Honey, Eva didn't put me up to anything. I decided to do this myself. Eva's a great girl, don't get me wrong, but subtlety isn't exactly one of her strong suits. You two are too alike in personality for her to get much in the way of anything helpful out of you. I thought you'd like having another friend around to vent to this time.

[Taya scoots closer to him, slowly.]

So tell me what's up, hon. I promise, nothing you say is going to leave this room. And I won't judge you for it, either. Scout's honor.

[Damien looks away from her for a moment, visibly considering. He takes a noticeably shaky exhale, hand running through his salt-and-pepper hair almost absent-mindedly. And then he turns back to her, nods solemnly, and begins.]

Alright.

I just....moving on and moving forward should mean I'm better than constantly overthinking things at this point, shouldn't it? But dios, if I can't stop. I keep thinking that Craig and Marvin would be here if I'd been stronger. If I'd been smart enough to read into what we were getting ourselves into. That this whole situation could have been solved so much earlier if I'd just studied why we were dealing with so many fantasmas in the first place. Around and around it goes. I shouldn't be thinking about it. Sounds estúpido when I say it out loud, even, but....

And then it was our anniversary a few weeks ago. The anniversary of when Marv and I first....and I couldn't stop thinking about that, either. Even though I talked to them both, and I know they forgive me for what happened. I still miss both of them, and....and I shouldn't be so stuck in the past! I should be moving on! I should be trying to be better! But I'm just some stupid anciano who can't stop overthinking things, and...and I still don't think I deserve to be around you. Any of you. How can I be a good leader when I'm caught up in everything that's ever happened to me?

[Damien's voice, which has risen to a shout, now becomes soft. Hushed. As if he's realized that the outburst of emotion was uncalled for.]

I should be....I....I don't know how else to be. I'm failing all of you.

[For a long moment, silence stretches between the two of them. And then slowly, as if she is interacting with a skittish horse rather than another human being, Taya extends her hand to place it upon Damien's knee, squeezing slightly in an attempt to gain his attention. Her voice is strong but gentle as he glances at her, her kindness and compassion shining through even if her facial expression can't be seen.]

You listen to me, Damien. If someone else is going through a rough time, do you judge them for dwelling on those things?

....No.

Exactly. Honey, I'm not a doctor of the mind. Never have been, probably never will be. But what I do know is that healing isn't linear. You're allowed to feel good one moment and like garbage the next. You're allowed to dwell on the things that made you happy or sad in your past. You're allowed to take as long as you need to to feel alright again. You're allowed to take steps back, even. The important thing is that you don't let it consume you. That you reach out for help when you need it. And Damien, you should know by now that we're all here to help you.

[Damien stares at Taya for a long moment, his mouth working but no sound coming out. He seems utterly pole-axed as he sits there, words eventually coming out in something of a strangled whisper.]

....but what if I keep messing things up?

Then you let that happen, Damien. Hon, if you try to strive for perfection in every single aspect of your life, you're gonna work yourself into an early grave. Trust me on that much. You're not broken, you're human. And if there's one thing that working in healthcare for so long has taught me, it's that humans are messy little creatures sometimes. But they're also there to pick each other up when it matters the most. And if you trust us to pick you up, I think you're gonna be better off for it. Now, come on.

[She offers her outstretched hand to Damien, and the very corners of a bright smile can be seen upon her face.]

Stop mopin' in the dark like some kind of vampire and come join the festivities, alright? Everything's gonna be alright.

[Damien tries his best to mirror the smile as he takes the proffered hand, pulling himself into a standing position.]

Gracias, Taya. I think I'll take you up on that offer, see if there's any--

[Suddenly, the ear-splitting squeal of radio static is heard. As both parties in the room reflexively put their hands to their ears to block the noise, the door to the room is heard bursting open, Eva's voice ringing out loud over the commotion.]

GET YOUR ASSES DOWNSTAIRS NOW.

SOMETHING'S GOING ON.

[END VIDEO PLAYBACK]