#happy coming * tea time is also a very tough contestant

[yume-fanfare]

can they even top niichan ouen dan

[theji]

SDOC 4 Ep 1 Commentary

I told myself to wait till Sunday to watch SDOC cos it was getting late already and my Sunday is free. But no, the heart wants what it wants so... I ended up watching it till 5+ am. No regrets though I'm feeling a bit like a zombie now. 😅

Sharing some stray thoughts and observations. I'll keep spoilers to a minimum.

100% watching the show for DD's reactions. The dancing comes second.

DD and Bouboo = True Love

Poor Yang Kai but if his weibo post is anything to go by, we might see some changes in future.

I like how the 4 captains have distinct styles for their ice breaking sessions. Han Geng be like, come let's have tea and chat 😆 while DD is all business-like "Come, who wanna go first?" (But he is very respectful and truly excited to see his team mates perform. This is in line with his straightforward nature, to just get right into the groove of things.)

DD cueing Bouboo first cos he wants to see how he has improved/changed in the past year.

Henry seems like an easily impressed, overly excited kid. I'm looking forward to see how his team does.

I like the International mix of dancers and backgrounds. I'm hoping the production team won't skew things too much towards Chinese culture. Some of the dancers kept saying things like wanna show them the beauty of Chinese culture, show them the abilities of Chinese dancers, representing China etc. It's not wrong to be proud but I think first and foremost, it should still be about street dance, engaging with and learning from one another.

I'm quite liking the Japanese contestants so far. Especially ACKY. He seems fun.

AC seems like an interesting character. I'm hoping to see more of and from them.

I like how Ibuki held her own during the battle with Bouboo. And she's excellent. I've never seen arms move that fast amongst all the past waackers. #girlpower

DD and Ye Yin makes a cute team. Love the nugget of info that DD borrowed the hat from Ye Yin. It matches real well with his outfit.

Highlight of the episode was definitely DD's locking performance. And I had a proud mama moment when several contestants, even GOGO Brothers complimented DD on his skills.

I was grooving alone in my room in the dark in the wee hours of the morning while watching the show. Don't judge.

DD's outfits choices are excellent. The white singlet should make another appearance.

Compared to S3, DD seems more relaxed and chill, more at ease and familiar with things. Can tell that he's really enjoying himself there even though it's tough. He looks like a happy and excited kid all the time, whooping and giving his teammates ample cheers and encouragement etc. Last season he was more reserved and tended to defer to his cool personna, at least on screen. From his opening dance we can already see the difference. That dance was more playful compared to his usual ones and his expressions were super on-point. This reminded me of what he said to the girls during P101, that expressions, and not just dance moves, are also important part of a performance.

I think it's also obvious that winning is less of a priority for DD this time round. Of cos he's still competitive and would try to win again but more importantly, it's the experience, the learning and street dance spirit and culture that take precedence. Last season he was all about choosing team members who are strong in battle, cos he wants the strength. But this time round, he allowed Ye Yin to go against GOGO Brothers instead of the other expected choice. On one hand, it's to sort of fulfill Ye Yin's dream (a good captain takes care of his team and listens to their opinions). On the other hand, it shows that he's confident of his other pairings, esp Bouboo and his own locking performance. And he's reserving his ammo for round 2. He's strategic and willing to take risks. He's smart. And I hope more people can see this part of him, instead of just thinking that he's a pretty face and good dancer.

I'm really happy to see DD's growth and just to see him doing things that he likes. Seeing him in his element. Seeing him shine. I can't wait for the other episodes to air!!

Still a boy. A cute, happy little boy. Love him!!

[rougedraconteur]

Happy Mother’s Day to all of you who have mothers or mother stand-ins you wish to honor today, and here’s to you if YOU ARE a mom, however you define that word. Mothering is a special skill, comes in many shapes and sizes, and deserves to be recognized when that person played an important part in your life. Mothering should be life-giving, supportive, sustaining, so honor that and whoever fills that role. Maybe you play that role for yourself. If so, honor yourself today for nuturing the child inside you to adulthood.

My mom and I were very close, though our relationship was also difficult more times than not. Today I sit and drink tea from a mug she won from answering questions correctly on a radio show. She was very smart, valedictorian of her class, wanted to be a nurse but was too poor in those days to chase that dream, and no one was there to help her. She lost her father at a very young age, and life was a huge struggle from then on.

But she was amazing, always helping others, laughing, literally her whole life taking scraps and making a beautiful quilt of her life. She looked like Shirley Temple when she was young; like a 50’s Hollywood movie star when she was a young woman; could do anything with a sewing machine, including upholstering a couch and making drapes; was, according to my dad, the best basketball player he had ever seen on the best team, men or women, he had ever seen play together, which included her younger sister, and could nail one free throw after another. She once shot and made 24 free throws in a row in a shooting contest.

She worked mill jobs, office jobs, store clerk jobs, was a union leader, found true love with my stepdad late in life, worked beside him to restore his lovely old homeplace to former glory, and was the best friend I ever had in this world. I never was, or will never will be, as kind or as funny or as beautiful as she was, but I hope I will always be as brave, strong, and honest as she was. Her favorite job, and the one she gave the most time and attention to, was mom. She persevered, no matter how hard the task at hand, and she had some tough blows in life. She was, and is, my hero. I miss her every day.

[hymn2000]

Ideal Confusion - MCU AU Fanfic - C7

(Title subject to change)

Story summary: Giving into the constant pressure from the press, Tony decides to put a rest to the rumours that Peter is his biological son - once and for all.

Previous Chapter(s): 1 2 3 4 5 6

Part of my Frostiron and Spiderson series.

Warnings/themes: family, family stuff, adoption, DNA test(s), pressure, peer pressure, social issues, mentions of alcoholism, mental health problems, potentially some minor medical inaccuracies, mentions of corporal punishment, hurt/comfort

You can also find me on AO3

Chapter 7 - Kicks

-

Loki returned home to an unusually quiet house, but for once he didn’t give it a second thought. He went to his room and closed the door, only to be disturbed a moment later.

“Hey, baby”

“Hi. I didn’t realise you were about” he said. “Shut the door”

Tony did as he was asked. 

“So” he said. “Are you ok?”

“Mm. It’s just been a tough day”

“Oh dear” Tony said, approaching the bed. “Did... did something happen?”

“Not exactly” Loki said, pulling his shirt off and tossing it aside. “It’s just my back and shoulders playing up again. It’s been rather bad today”

“Aw, darling” Tony sighed, climbing onto the bed and kneeling behind him.

“Tony, what are you doing?” Loki sighed.

“Rubbing your shoulders” he mumbled. “Jesus, Loki! You’ve got some mega knots here. No wonder it hurts”

“Mm” Loki sucked his breath. “You’re hurting me”

“You’ll feel better for it, I promise”

“Mm... How did it go at the doctors?”

“Peter kicked off a little bit” 

“I told you you should have told him before the appointment”

“Well, maybe” Tony sighed. “Well, we did it, anyway. Should get the results within the next three to five days, apparently. Dr Manning said he’d try to rush it through, but he can’t promise”

“I see” 

“I think he’s sulking now” Tony said. “He’s been in his room since we got back. We had a good meal out, mind you”

“When did you last check on him?”

“Uhh... I haven’t”

“Mm. Maybe I’ll go and see how he is” Loki said, standing up.

Tony sighed. “Aww, Loki, do you have to? Can’t we just spend a bit of time together?”

“Later”

-

Peter paused his music when the door opened. He didn’t protest when Loki sat down on the bed and pulled him onto his lap.

“Hello, tiny”

Peter didn’t say anything. He rested against Loki’s chest, listening to the sound of his heart beating.

“You’re very quiet” Loki said after a few minutes. “Don’t you have anything to say?”

Peter shrugged. Loki waited a moment, and then picked up the remote on the bed.

“Well, no use sitting in total silence” he said, hitting the play button. He was quiet for a moment. “I wish I could say I was surprised at your music choice”

Peter didn’t know how to respond to that, so he didn’t. Loki put a finger under Peter’s chin, tipping his head back so he had to look at him.

“You’re really not very happy right now, are you?”

For a moment, Peter looked into his father’s eyes, but then pulled away and rested his ear back against his chest. Loki sighed and held him tighter.

“You are allowed to talk to me, you know. You’re allowed to tell me what’s wrong”

Peter shook his head slightly.

“...Is it because of what happened at the doctors?”

Peter paused, and then shrugged one shoulder. Loki sighed again.

“What’s going on in that head of yours, sweetie?”

Too much, Peter thought. Definitely too much to explain, at any rate.

“You’re not going to speak to me, are you?”

Peter shook his head slightly. 

“Do you want me to leave you alone?”

Peter didn’t even twitch. Loki looked at him, sighing once more, and carefully lifted Peter off his lap and set him back on the bed.

“Well, I’ll leave you to your music and thoughts” he said, standing up. “You just come and find me if you change your mind”

He kissed him on the cheek and left him to it.

-

Tony was still on Loki’s bed, and he smiled when his husband returned.

“So, about that alone time-”

“I’m not in the mood” Loki said. “I’m going to have a bath”

“Oooh!”

“On my own, Anthony”

Tony was a little taken aback by his tone. 

“What have I done?”

“Tony, just give me a break” Loki sighed. “I’m tired, and I’m sore, and-”

“I offered to give you a massage” Tony interrupted.

Loki rested his head on his fingertips for a moment. “Half an hour. Just give me half an hour to myself. We’ll talk later”

“...I take it we’re not having some bedroom fun tonight then?”

Loki simply slammed the en suite door behind him.

-

Loki gave in after his bath, lying on his front on the bed and letting Tony rub his back and shoulders. It hurt horribly at first, but after a while he started to feel the benefit.

“How did Peter seem to you today?”

“Hm? Oh, he was fine” Tony said. “We had a great time at lunch, just like old times, yknow? He was laughing and joking and chatting like always”

“Mm. And what about when you got home?”

“Uh, well, I had a conference call pretty soon after we got back. I told him he could come and get me if he really needed to, but I sent him off to his room while I went down to the lab and I guess he didn’t need me cos he didn’t come to find me. He was fine. Seemed a bit tired, I guess. But you know, we had a pretty big meal”

“Mm”

“...Why?”

“He didn’t say a word when I went in to see him, and he wasn’t especially responsive” Loki said. “I think he’s sad, Tony”

“I think you’re reading into it a bit too much” Tony said. “He’s probably just got indigestion or something. Don’t act so worried. We’re friends just as much as ever”

Loki stayed quiet. He didn’t want to believe he might be wrong, but after a tiring afternoon at work, coupled with a bit of a chronic pain flare-up, there was always a chance. Besides, how could he compare his five minutes with the boy to Tony’s full day? Maybe he just needed to rest now, and draw conclusions later.

-

Peter didn’t say anything when Tony got him to help tidy the games room. He didn’t say anything at teatime. He didn’t say anything after tea when they settled in the living room either. 

“You wanna watch a DVD or something, fella?” Tony said.

Peter shrugged. 

“What’s gotten into you tonight? Are you being defiant? I don’t think I like your attitude”

“You don’t like him being quiet?” Loki said, raising an eyebrow.

“This isn’t quiet; it’s silent” Tony said. “What’s up, kiddo? Are you protesting?”

Peter scowled at him.

“Hey, don’t go giving me that look!”

“Oh Tony, leave the boy alone” Loki sighed. I don’t think he needs you lecturing him”

“I’m not! Peter, you can either answer me properly or go to your room”

“Tony! You can’t say that! No, Peter, you stay right where you are! Dad’s just being foolish” Loki said, shaking his head at Tony. “You can’t force him to talk if he doesn’t want to”

“Well maybe I want everyone in the room to contribute to the conversation”

“What conversation? I’m hardly getting involved either, am I?” Loki said, raising his book. “Honestly”

“Well I stand by what I said”

“Tony, remember that time you threatened to spank him if he didn’t break his record at that swim contest? This is almost as out of order as that”

“Oh come on! That was a joke!” Tony protested.

“It didn’t sound like it at the time”

“Yeah? Well I-”

Peter looked back and forth between his parents. Even though it rarely led to anything more, he never liked it when they bickered. Especially about him.

“Hey, don’t you go kicking off at me!” Tony said.

“Oh darling, please. I’ve done more than my fair share of kicking off in my life, and this isn’t it. I think you know that”

“WELL, what I DO know is-”

Peter carefully got up and slipped out of the room. He wasn’t going to stick around and let the argument get turned on him. 

-

Loki and Tony did have an argument, and quite a bad one too. Peter knew it was worse than usual when he heard the front door slam. He didn’t need three guesses to know which parent had stormed out. 

*

[killanyone4you]

dont send me numbers i’m just gonna answer them all

1. Would you have sex with the last person you messaged?

yup.

2. You talked to an ex today, correct?

no def have not.

3. Have you taken someones virginity?

yes

4. Is trust a big issue for you?

no. i need to feel trust to feel safe but i dont really have a hard time trusting people.

5. Did you hang out with the person you like recently?

no. haven’t hung out with anyone recently. sorta trapped alone.

6. What are you excited for?

um. getting my meds tomorrow? im boring af.

7. What happened tonight?

movies, snacks, cat snuggles.

8. Do you think it’s disgusting when girls get really wasted?

no. i think this question is kinda disgusting.

9. Is confidence cute?

very.

10. What is the last beverage you had?

water

11. How many people of the opposite sex do you fully trust?

2 maybe 3

12. Do you own a pair of skinny jeans?

a few.

13. What are you gonna do Saturday night?

it is saturday night. over here gettin wild. movies, snacks. cat cuddles.

14. What are you going to spend money on next?

meds. food.

15. Are you going out with the last person you kissed?

no

16. Do you think you’ll change in the next 3 months?

probably. i dunno.

17. Who do you feel most comfortable talking to about anything?

uhh. i tend to blurt out all my fucked up shit to basically anyone so i’m not sure it matters.

18. The last time you felt broken?

always yall.

19. Have you had sex today?

with myself. twice

20. Are you starting to realize anything?

i’m not where i thought i was and i need to get the fuck out as soon as possible.

21. Are you in a good mood?

im fine.

22. Would you ever want to swim with sharks?

not really

23. Are your eyes the same color as your dad’s?

not exactly. i do have my dads eyes, they look exactly like his, but his are pale blue and mine are grey.

24. What do you want right this second?

snuggles. kisses. affection.

25. What would you say if the person you love/like kissed another girl/boy?

typical.

26. Is your current hair color your natural hair color?

nooo

27. Would you be able to date someone who doesn’t make you laugh?

lol no. and neither could anyone else the fuck

28. What was the last thing that made you laugh?

a boy

29. Do you really, truly miss someone right now?

yes very much.

30. Does everyone deserve a second chance?

hard no.

31. Honestly, do you hate the last boy you were talking to?

no

32. Does the person you have feelings for right now, know you do?

i dont really know how i feel about anything right now, so i have no clue bruh

33. Are you one of those people who never drinks soda?

not at all

34. Listening to?

why are you here

35. Do you ever write in pencil anymore?

when i need to write and i have a pencil.

36. Do you know where the last person you kissed is? 

no

37. Do you believe in love at first sight?

noo

38. Who did you last call?

my boss

39. Who was the last person you danced with?

a coworker i think. just being silly.

40. Why did you kiss the last person you kissed?

they kissed me. i guess it was a good moment.

41. When was the last time you ate a cupcake?

it’s been a minute.

42. Did you hug/kiss one of your parents today?

CORONAVIRUS

43. Ever embarrass yourself in front of a crush?

constantly. every day. just existing when i have a crush is embarrassing

44. Do you tan in the nude?

i dont tan im white like a pasty ass ghost. but less cute than that sounds.

45. If you could, would you take back your last kiss?

maybe.

46. Did you talk to someone until you fell asleep last night?

i did.

47. Who was the last person to call you?

my mom i think. or maybe my grandma

48. Do you sing in the shower?

sometimes

49. Do you dance in the car?

always

50. Ever used a bow and arrow?

no. that would be a fucking disaster

51. Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer?

whenever my last school photo was.

52. Do you think musicals are cheesy?

yes, but that doesn’t mean i dont also love them

53. Is Christmas stressful?

yes. but that doesn’t mean i dont also love it.

54. Ever eat a pierogi?

yes

55. Favorite type of fruit pie?

cherry

56. Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?

i wanted to be a lawyer and a teacher

57. Do you believe in ghosts?

nope

58. Ever have a Deja-vu feeling?

all the fucking time man

59. Take a vitamin daily?

sometimes.

60. Wear slippers?

sometimes

61. Wear a bath robe?

nope.

62. What do you wear to bed?

anything. usually a tshirt or tank top and undies or shorts.

63. First concert?

well apparently i was conceived at a John Mellencamp concert. but it was Backstreet Boys lol. my dad mixes sound for live shows and got tickets to a sold out show the day off and surprised me with them. im pretty sure i was in second or third grade, it was great

64. Wal-Mart, Target or Kmart?

walmart and target.

65. Nike or Adidas?

neither.

66. Cheetos Or Fritos?

cheetos.

67. Peanuts or Sunflower seeds?

ew.

68. Favorite Taylor Swift song?

this is tough. i actually love Taylor Swift. i guess i’ll say Gorgeous

69. Ever take dance lessons?

noooooooo

70. Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing?

no. not really.

71. Can you curl your tongue?

yes

72. Ever won a spelling bee?

no sir i suck at spelling

73. Have you ever cried because you were so happy?

yes.

74. What is your favorite book?

this is hard. i love a lot of books. probably Ella Enchanted

75. Do you study better with or without music?

oh god i dont study well at all.

76. Regularly burn incense?

no.

77. Ever been in love?

i dont really know to be honest. i want to say yes but like. i dont fucking know anything.

78. Who would you like to see in concert?

i’d like to see the used again. i’ve only seen them once and it was a festival set so it was kinda short. and i’d REALLY love to see something corporate but that isn’t possible so Andrew McMahon in any form would be nice.

79. What was the last concert you saw?

the used.

80. Hot tea or cold tea?

cold tea

81. Tea or coffee?

iced coffee.

82. Favorite type of cookie? 

my families christmas cookies

83. Can you swim well?

pretty well.

84. Can you hold your breath without holding your nose?

can some people not do that?

85. Are you patient?

no. not even a little tiny bit.

86. DJ or band, at a wedding?

i dont go to weddings

87. Ever won a contest?

uh. none come to mind.

88. Ever have plastic surgery?

no.

89. Which are better black or green olives?

no olives are good and if you disagree you’re wrong thank you.

90. Opinions on sex before marriage?

im a fan

91. Best room for a fireplace?

any room really.

92. Do you want to get married

no. i hope i change my mind,

[onepiece-imagines-bartoloclub]

(I hope yall like this headcannon, gonna start with the heavy requests tomorrow so I just wanted to make this one since I missed making a Mother's Day headcannon. I wrote this with the thought some of the dads still being alive just to let yall know, also some of these might seem abrupt, it's because I couldn't think of anything else to write for some of them like Zoro's. :) ❤💖❤💖❤💖❤❤)

~ How the strawhats would celebrate Father's Day ~

- Luffy -

•He doesn't get the chance to meet Dragon,but he doesn't mind as it gives him the chance to meet new people whom his crew know and familiar faces as well.

•Luffy might now know what the point of Father's Day is, but getting to see his crew so happy being around their family is good enough for him, so he makes sure that this day is full of eating, fun and laughs all around.

- Zoro -

•The first thing that would happen is that Koushirou shuts the entrance of the dojo since it would be hard to talk to Zoro if his army of young fans saw him.

•It starts off awkward with Zoro not kmowing what to say and Kiro scratching the back of his head with an awkward smile as he invites Zoro into his house.

•The room was silent but it took Kiro to break the atmosphere by asking Zoro what he's learned and they spent the whole day sparring with wooden staffs. The spar lasted for hours, neither holding back.

•After Zoro wins, he shares some sake with Kiro and they reminisce on the days when Zoro was his student.

•"I don't know how Kuina would feel of she knew what you were doing now, but.... I know for sure that she would be happy that you kept your promise to her."

- Nami -

•It was pretty amusing to her that the first thing she sees when she makes it to Nojiko's house is Genzo and Nojiko preparing a meal for Nami's arrival since she expected to be the one spoiling Genzo for the day.

•When they were seated, the dinner was mostly one sided as Genzo insisted that Nami tells them how her adventure with her crew has been and that if she could please get a bounty that doesn't attract so many perverts.

•It was very pleasant as Genzo made sure to dedicate the whole day to Nami and Nojiko as they walked around the town and caught up on what's been happening for the last two years since she's been gone.

•When they arrive at Bellemere's grave, Nami asks why Genzo was so bent on making the day about her when it should be the other way around, he had this to say.

•"I spent two whole years worrying and hoping that you're safe and happy with that pirate crew, I couldn't imagine what I would've done had if that wasn't the case. Having the chance to see you again and smiling is the greatest gift you could give me and Bellemere, getting to spend the day with you and Nojiko is all I need."

- Ussop -

•There's so much he wants to say now that he's standing there, face to face to the father he bragged about to Luffy and the man his mom loved.

•Stories are being shared between the two alongside Usopp's little crew and Kaya, though the audience seems to prefer hearing his stories and adventures rather than Yasopp's.

•After the stories were shared, they had a sniping competition that took a large majority of the day because they were always tied. The contest was getting crazier as they went through the town with trickier targets from pebbles thrown from the top of Kaya's house to using sniping down running targets miles away on tree branches.

•He was ecstatic, he was having fun with Yasopp like he always wanted, and it shows that Yasopp was just as happy to hang out with Usopp as if they knew each other for years.

- Sanji -

•Father's Day with Zeff would be like any other day at the Baratie with the only difference being that he has 2 more years worth of experience and new dishes to share and be judged by him.

•He knows that he'll get the usual tough love responses when he tries the food, but color him surprised when Zeff doesn't respond but smiles when he tries his dish.

•The best part of Father's Day is that Zeff continues to call Sanji by just that, not Vinsmoke Sanji. It almost puts him to tears knowing that even after the reveal of his family background and what they do, Zeff still sees him as his son and accepts his refusal to use his family name.

- Chopper -

•It starts with a tackle hug when he sees Kureha and Hiruluk at the entrance of Wapol's castle.

•They spend the day outside and drink hot tea while he tells them the new plants and diseases he's discovered.

•Hiruluk is suprised and happy to see how far Chopper has come with his knowledge and medicinal capabilities while Hiruluk and her usual tough love just tells him that he learned from a comptent doctor.

•Jokes and bob sledding insues as the family of doctors have fun in the snow. Both Chopper and Hiruluk are in tears, laughing and having fun without Wapol getting in the way of their fun.

•Chopper and Kureha's gift to Hiruluk was getting to see the cherry blossoms on the castle for the first time, seeinf Hiruluk genuine cry in joy that his dream was fulfilled was all it took for Chopper to cry with him while Kureha smiled at the two most important people in her life.

- Robin -

•Not much happened that day as Robin was just happy to see Saul again after all those years, so after the heartfelt hug, they just talked to each other the whole day.

•She was actually laughing the whole day with Saul as he told his stories and jokes, his presence alone putting her mood at an all time high.

•As a gift, Robin gave him a new cowboy hat, like the one he wore when they first met, his smile never wavered he accepted the gift. Anything that Robin could've given him, he would treasure it, so he didn't give any warning to the hug he gives her afterwards.

•"I'll wear it all the time, Robin. Thank you for this and for finding a family and friends that make you show the real you, it's the best gift you could ever give me. If Olvia was here to see this, she would've loved to meet your friends and see the person you've become."

- Franky -

•Being much more open about his feelings after joining the strawhats, it wasn't hard to talk to Tom and Iceberg while they build and joke around.

•He outright asks Tom what he wants as a gift and his response was what took him by surprise.

•"The gift that I've always wanted was to hear the ship of your dreams and see the love and care you put into it."

•The rest consisted of Franky showing Tom the Sunny and every single addition, piece, room and contraption it contained. Seeing Tom's proud and surprised smile was what made his day and he would be more than happy to do this all over again if he had the chance.

- Brook -

•Since he doesn't celebrate it anymore, he's more than happy to play songs about dads to his crew and their fathers while they talk on the Sunny.

•He was more than happy to liven the mood in the deck and getting to know the people that lead his friends to becoming the people they are.

•"Yohoho! Your parents are quite the characters, it warms my heart to see you all so happy talking to your loved ones, and I don't have a heart, yohohoho!

[osakaso5]

Momo Tea Party Rabbit Chat Part 2: The Great Aristocrat, Momorle

Part 1 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

Tsumugi: Momo-san, good work! I just reviewed the script for the Garden Tea Room short drama!

Tsumugi: Yamato-san will be joining Re:vale as a part of the Flavor Tea Team

Tsumugi: But I'm sure you'll also have plenty of scenes with IDOLiSH7 outside of that, so I hope you'll treat us kindly!

Tsumugi: And with all due respect, I decided to contact Yuki-san first today..!

Tsumugi: 

Momo: I know, Yuki just bragged to me about getting you to rig the game~ lololol

Momo: Good job, Maneko-chan! I was just filming NEXT Re:vale!

Tsumugi: So Yuki-san told you about rigging the game..!

Tsumugi: I'm sorry, I don't usually pay much attention to what order I contact you in, but... ><

Momo: Sorry! It's all because me and Yuki got way too into our game of seeing who you'll message first, so don't worry about it~!

Tsumugi: So that's why you asked me if I'd contacted Yuki-san the other day ><

Momo: Yep, lololol We've been turning everything into little contests for a while now

Momo: We're even now, but it turns out that's because Yuki asked you to contact him first the next time, lol

Momo: It was right before the shoot, but we couldn't stop laughing at how unfair that was, lololololol

Tsumugi: From now on, I'll message you both at the same time...

Momo: That would be really tough! It's fine! Yuki's competitive side has been really handsome, but I think we're about done with this fad!

Tsumugi: Your fads change awfully quickly..!?

Momo: Right now, we're all about the short drama! (`・ω・´)

Momo: It seems like we'll get to spend plenty of time with both IDOLiSH7 and TRIGGER, so I'm really excited for  it! Let's all get  along!

Tsumugi: Yes! We're also looking forward to it. We aim to learn a lot from you!

Momo: I read the script, and I was surprised that the princes don't find out that they're brothers until later!

Momo: I heard it was a comedy, so I assumed we'd be a big, happy family that shares everything and participates in friendly slapstick.

Tsumugi: That's right, all of you were  born and raised separately!

Tsumugi: You first find out that you're related to the king and each other when he invites you to dine with him at the castle.

Momo: And that's when we're given the task of setting up a tea party and some kind of entertainment for the king and the other princes.

Momo: We're split into groups of 3 with a lottery, and Re:vale gets teamed up with Yamato.

Tsumugi: Yes! You three make up the Flavor Tea Team!

Tsumugi: The princes are tasked with tea parties and accompanying entertainment, which will be used by the king to determine a successor.

Momo: My character's called Momorle! It's so cute, I feel like I could turn into a sorcerer!

Tsumugi: As the son of a great aristocratic lineage, Momorle doesn't think he needs the throne, so he wants someone else to succeed it!

Tsumugi: It seems like a bit of a tricky role, but what do you think?

Momo: I guess I did think it was a little difficult, since I'm usually not the type that wants to skip out on work and let someone else handle things (￣^￣)ゞ

Momo: But I'm childhood friends with not only Tenn's character Tennard, a traveling aristocrat, but also Mitsuki's character Mitsulph, a commoner and local hero. And we have a happy reunion scene together.

Momo: So I don't think my character only cares about what benefits him.

Momo: But maybe I shouldn't think about it too hard, since it's a comedy, lol

Tsumugi: It's not in the script, but that might be true if you really try to get a grasp on Momorle's story..!

Tsumugi: It's important to flesh out your characters, and the director and production staff seemed nice enough that you can probably just ask them about it!

Momo: Hmm, you're right! Thanks!

Momo: Worrying isn't going to get me any further, so I'll get Okarin to contact them for me later~!

Tsumugi: Yes! Momorle is an interesting role, and I can't wait to see you play him!

Choices/outcomes:

1. It's a lovely comedy!

Momo: Yeah! The script was funny! As long as we're filming with all of us, I want this production to be talked about, and get even better as we go along. That's why I can't wait to get on set!

2. If you were the king, what sort of trials would you come up with?

Momo: I wonder what someone needs to become a king!? I think I'd just make them play team sports and have a drinking party together.

3. If you were the king, who would you choose as the successor?

Momo: Uuuuuuhhh, um. I don’t  think he'd be up for it, but probably  Yuki. I don't think I could handle seeing  someone else become the king and  begin ordering him around, lololol Though being made to pick Yuki-san in the first place is unbearable to me.

Momo: If I remember correctly, the Flavor Tea Team is going to hold some kind of music performance.

Momo: Yuki just put some implicit pressure on me by talking about how excited he is for that!

Tsumugi: Yes! I'm told you'll seem like an elegant orchestra at first, but quickly turn out to be more of a kindergarten concert.

Tsumugi: Yamato-san is playing the castagnettes, Yuki-san is playing the triangle, and you get a melodica!

Momo: That's right! I was wondering why Yuki didn't get the keyboard instrument, lol

Momo: When it comes to music, Yuki tends to get really serious over small stuff, so I really have to hit this one outta the park... ε=ε=ε= ε=┌(;￣◇￣)┘

Tsumugi: Yuki-san told me he was very excited see you play!

Momo: Thanks for giving me that final blow, lololol

Tsumugi: 

Momo: It's fine! Momo-chan will do his best, so his darling dearest will fall in love with him all over again..!!

Tsumugi: I look forward to that, but try not to overwork yourself..! ><

Momo: You got it! I'll make it into a stunning performance that'll bring a smile to everyone's faces!

Tsumugi: That'll be just perfect!

Momo: ☆*:.。.o(≧▽≦)o.。.:*☆

Momo: Welp, I need to get back to our shoot, so bye for now! ─=≡Σ((( つ・`ω・´)つ

Tsumugi: Alright! Thank you for taking all this time to reply to me!

[jaynaneeya]

Comparing Rides that are at Both Disneyland and Disney World

Disclaimer: I've taken over 20 trips to Disneyland, starting with one when I was 4, and just took my first trip to Disney World a few weeks ago. Also I haven't ridden Jungle Cruise at Disney World, so that's not on this list. Here goes

Astro Orbitor: This ride sucks at both parks (it's basically a super uncomfortable version of Dumbo), but at least at Disney World it's up higher so you get a better view. Disneyland just needs to get rid of it.

Autopia/Tomorrowland Speedway: This ride also sucks at both parks, and it smells terrible, but at least Disneyland's is off by itself, and you get a more scenic tour, and from what I recall the cars work better, so Disneyland wins.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Awesome at both parks, but different. Disney World's does this rocking back and forth thing that makes it feel more like a runaway train, but Disneyland has a more epic climax with exploding dynamite. I'm calling it a tie.

Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters/Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin: WAAAAAAY better at Disneyland. Disney World's shooters are attached to the car, making it impossible to aim, while Disneyland's detach. Also Disneyland's light up when you hit something; I could not for the life of me figure out what I was doing at Disney World. This could just be lack of experience on my part, but I'm virtually positive it's because that version of the ride is vastly inferior.

Disneyland/Walt Disney World Railroad: Disneyland's has four stops to Disney World's three, but what really pushes Disneyland over the edge is the Grand Canyon thing. Disney World's has no equivalent diorama. Come on, what's the Railroad without an epic fight between a T-rex and a stegosaurus?

Dumbo the Flying Elephant: The ride's pretty much the same at both, except Disney World has two carousels and Disneyland only has one, so I'm giving this one to Orlando.

Haunted Mansion: This one pains me because I freaking LOVE Disneyland's version of this ride, but Disney World has some extra stuff at the beginning that's pretty cool. Although only Disneyland's has the Hatbox Ghost, and it just makes me happy to know that you're walking underneath the railroad without knowing it (which is not the case in Disney World). So Disney World wins, but narrowly.

it's a small world: Honestly, I'm not a huge fan of the way Disneyland awkwardly incorporated some of the Disney characters into this ride. Like, it works for a few, but they tried too hard. Disney World doesn't have this, so Disney World wins.

The Little Mermaid - Ariel's Undersea Adventure/Under the Sea - Journey of The Little Mermaid: Apart from its name, this ride is almost exactly the same. I didn't see the cameo of The Incredible Mr. Limpet at Disney World (if it's there, it's not in the same place as the Disneyland one), but I think they might play more of the song Under the Sea at Disney World, so this is another tie.

Mad Tea Party: The theming is different, but the basic ride concept is the same. I feel like the location makes a lot more sense at Disneyland though; it's next to another Alice in Wonderland attraction, instead of the Tomorrowland Speedway. So I'm giving this one to Disneyland.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: This one's a little tough. I really like how at Disneyland you're rocking for pretty much the whole ride, instead of only part of it at Disney World. The scenes are in a different order, and I think the story makes a bit more sense at Disney World. Also the queue at Disney World is freaking awesome. So Disney World takes it.

Peter Pan's Flight: The rides are a little different, but I don't feel like one is clearly superior to the other. I'm giving it to Disney World for the interactive queue.

Pirates of the Caribbean: The entire bayou scene, including the restaurant, is absent from Disney World (makes sense, as Disney World doesn't have New Orleans Square), so only Disneyland has the part where you get to wave at people eating and watch the old guy snoring in the rocking chair and wonder who's playing the banjo. Disneyland has two drops to Disney World's one. After the drop(s), the rides are pretty much exactly the same until the end. Disneyland has an extra scene where drunk pirates are shooting at each other, including my very favorite pirate in the entire ride (the guy riding the cannon and trying to sing along who doesn't really know the words). I was livid to find that they'd eliminated him from the Disney World version. Disneyland wins HANDS DOWN.

Soarin' Around the World: This is the same in both parks now, but the California version was better. So past Disneyland wins this one.

Space Mountain: Disneyland's is way more comfortable because you're sitting next to someone, instead of single file, basically straddling the person in front of you like at Disney World. Disney World's does have astronauts, but that's pretty much the only thing to recommend it. Disneyland's is a much smoother ride, and it's also darker; at Disney World you can kind of see the track, which ruins the illusion of flying through space for me. But all of this is nothing compared to the music. Disneyland's Space Mountain music plays from speakers right next to you, is perfectly timed to fit the ride, and makes the whole experience about 1000 times more epic. At Disney World there is some music playing from speakers in the ride, but you can barely hear it. Mostly you just hear roller coaster noises and other people screaming. Disneyland wins BY FAR.

Splash Mountain: The opposite of Space Mountain. At Disneyland you sit single file uncomfortably, and at Disney World you sit next to someone. Also Disney World has an additional drop, and the story is easier to follow. Best of all, the front of the log comes up higher, so instead of your socks getting soaked like at Disneyland, it's mostly your top half that gets splashed, which is usually what you want. At Disneyland, I generally get the most splashed at the Slippin Falls at the beginning, which means I'm shivering for most of the ride. At Disney World, I always got the most splashed at the final drop, which is as it should be. Disney World wins by a landslide.

Star Tours: Almost exactly the same. A tie.

Tower of Terror: Yes, I know, I know, Disneyland technically doesn't have this anymore because it's the Guardians of the Galaxy ride now, but I'm doing it anyway. Disney World's is more interesting than Disneyland's used to be, since there's some horizontal movement to get to the elevator shaft, while Disneyland's loads you directly in the shaft. Also Disney World's has a randomized series of drops, while Disneyland's was the same every time. So I would say Disney World's is better than Disneyland's old version, but Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout is better than either. I do hate to admit it, because I really loved the old Tower of Terror at California Adventure. But there it is. So for the purposes of this contest, Disney World wins.

Toy Story [Midway] Mania: Essentially the same ride. The theming is different, and I think the queue is a little more interesting at Disney World, but for all intents and purposes, it's a tie.

Final Score: Disney World - 8, Disneyland - 7, Tie - 4

See? I'm not THAT biased.

[engekihaikyuu]

Hyper Projection Engeki Haikyuu - Start of the Giant

Entertainment Station Interview with Suga Kenta and Kageyama Tatsuya

Full interview translation under the Read More! Please do not repost this translation.

The last show, “Summer of Evolution,” was the most fun.  I thought we’d start by asking about your thoughts of that show.

Kage-chan: Since that was my first Engeki Haikyuu, I really wanted to sink my teeth into it, so to speak.  And those days ended up being such absolutely wild, bewildering days.  

Was there a moment where you felt like: This is Engeki Haikyuu? Kage-chan: It’s really the music that draws you in and gets you excited.  It felt the same as when I was an audience member listening to it.  You get this feeling of, “This!  This is it!” Kenta: Engeki Haikyuu has always been a collaborative production made with everyone’s ideas.  Of course, the last production was like that too.  In the beginning, we separated into groups like in an orientation, and we brainstormed all sorts of things, and that was really fun and interesting.   Kage-chan: We’d draw out our movements and choreography on a whiteboard like Worry-san wanted us to.  For me, all of that was really a first, so it was really fresh and original.

And from there were there many things that you ended up actually using in the show?

Kenta: For example, the new quick attack? Kage-chan: Also the falling toss.  And that was an idea from the actors.   Kenta: Actually, we probably use more ideas from the other actors.  We sort of use those as the baseline and then Worry-san comes in and improves and refines our ideas.  

When we talk about the performances, I want to ask about the show before last, “Winners and Losers,” where Engeki Haikyuu really aimed for perfection.  Based on that, what new things might we see in “Start of the Giant?”

Kenta: Honestly, we haven’t asked that at all yet.  Since Worry-san has been busy (laughs).   Kage-chan: According to what I’ve heard though, this show might actually exceed the amount of exercise from “Winners and Losers”… Kenta: Hm?  I’m not really gonna allow that, you know (laughs).   Kage-chan: How was that actually?  As soon as I saw that show, I really thought that that level of physicality was at the absolute limit of human ability… Kenta: Recently, I watched it when they aired it on TV, and it really is insane, that level of activity (laughs).  It was so intense, it actually felt like I was watching a documentary of someone else’s experiences, not my own.  

You sort of distance yourself from it, I see.  

Kenta: After that match with Aoba Johsai was over, I’d used up absolutely everything I had, so the tears just came naturally.  It’s hard to describe it, but it really was a bizarre feeling.  

And there will come a time when you exceed even that, maybe? Kenta: If we were to talk about Yin and Yang, I think “Winners and Losers” was definitely a darker production.*  For me, it was so tough, that I even thought, ‘I don’t want to do this anymore!’  Mentally and emotionally too, it was a considerably painful tour.  But even though this next show, “Start of the Giant,” is again set in a tournament, one of our opposing teams, Johzenji High, values having fun above all else, so I feel like the mood is going to be on the lighter side for this production.  Even if the level of physical exertion is difficult, the feeling behind it is more, ‘let’s have fun.’  Considering our series of shows, it’ll probably be a more intense version of “Karasuno, Revival!” in terms of atmosphere.  I want to make it a production that has a festival feeling to it.

In the matches against Johzenji High and Wakutani South, the main characters featured will be Sawamura Daichi and Ennoshita Chikara. First I want to ask about Tanaka Keita-san, who’s made a comeback to play Sawamura Daichi, having played him in the first production.  

Kenta: To be honest, I’m very happy to be able to be in another play together.  He does sort of feel like a dad, this person named Tanaka Keita.  He’s a person that smiles at everything and wraps you up.  To have someone like that come back to our company makes me very happy, and I have to thank Ken-chan too for creating a place where Keita-kun could come back.  For me personally, Sawamura is a character where Keita-kun and Ken-chan come together as one person.  So I’m gonna say it’s fate that Keita-kun came back to us.  

I have seen you on social media looking very happy as you’re being hugged by Tanaka-san.

Kenta: You know his chest measures 100 centimeters.  He feels like a pillow (laughs).   Kage-chan: And thanks to him, that’s my only image of Tanaka-san (laughs). Back during our “Summer of Evolution” tour, he did come to the dressing rooms, but all I did was greet him. Since then we haven’t really talked.** So without knowing what kind of person he is, literally the only image I have of him is his chest size (laughs). I just think he’s a guy you can rely on to be a pillow (laughs).  

And now please, tell me about Kawahara Kazuma-san, who plays Ennoshita Chikara.  

Kenta: This time Kazuma-kun gets to shine.  To read his name literally, he really is the “unsung hero”*** that’s been supporting us as part of the cast since the first show. At the beginning, since we didn’t have Kiyoko-san in the plays, we had to adapt the manga and transform it a bit for stage, so that Kazuma-kun took on everything that she did.  I really think he’s been doing all this with a lot of concerns that he never voices.  So the fact that Kazuma-kun can now finally be the pivot of the show, I’m as happy for him as I would be for myself.   Kage-chan: Kazuma-kun and I are both from Shizuoka Prefecture.  To me, he feels like warm and relaxing tea, and I think he and I share that aura (laughs).  Kazuma-kun is someone who helps pull you along step by step, and watches over everything.  Whenever I’d start to get tunnel vision unconsciously, he comes along nonchalantly with some advice like, “Wouldn’t it be better to try it this way?”  That’s Kazuma-kun.  Among us, it’s possible Kazuma-kun is the most talkative.  And when we dance, he’s always the one to count out the beat.   Kenta: He’s Karasuno’s dance leader.  By contrast, Keita-kun’s dancing sucks (laughs).  

This show, we have Johzenji High, whose main play style is “Have fun.”  And on the other side of that, there is the very impactful line, “There will be times when it’s not fun.”  How do you overcome those times when you have to just endure?  

Kenta: When times are tough, I think it’s better to go ahead and think it’s tough.  I’m that type.  Especially if we’re talking about Engeki, I think that then gets conveyed to the audience too.  Since my feelings in that moment are so straightforward, instead of forcing myself and saying, “I’m still ok,” I just think frankly to myself, “I can’t take it anymore,” and then I think everything I do belongs only to the moments in which they happen.  

Do you talk about it when you’re having a hard time?  

Kenta: No, I don’t say anything.  But it shows on my face (laughs).   Kage-chan: I’ve seen it show on his face pretty often.   Kenta: That’s because everyone is getting older.  We can’t move as well as we used to.  But the physical intensity just keeps going up (cries).   Kage-chan: I think I’m the type that wears his heart on his sleeve.  I can’t hide when I’m tired and frazzled.  That’s why, when I have the energy to enjoy something despite everything, it feels more like, “This is the actual me.”  At the very least, when it comes to acting, that’s why I feel like I can be more intense and concentrated.  

In the match against Wakutani South, we have the ‘Small Giant’ showdown between Hinata Shouyou and Nakashima Takeru.  

Kenta: I didn’t think the sub-title for this play would be “Start of the Giant.”  Of course, it does focus pretty heavily on the contest between Hinata and Nakashima, but we do also have the drama of Ennoshita’s story, and in the end, I think those together leave a single impression.  So in the end, the sub-title became “Start of the Giant,” and I feel now like it’s just that much more of a showdown.  At present, Nakashima is said to be the guy that’s closest to the “Small Giant.”  And so, I think Hinata has a lot of thoughts and feelings about that.  I don’t know yet how much we’ll feature on that until we get to rehearsals, but I do want to properly show off the contest between those two.   Kage-chan: For me, after “Summer of Evolution,” this is my second Engeki Haikyuu. To that end, I think I can say that the performance quality I want to have will certainly go up, and I want to be able to really show that off.  The new quick attack is another weapon Kageyama’s gained, and he’s leveled up one more step. For us as actors, we’re brushing up everything, our acting, our volleyball, our dancing, and I want to show our audience all of that effort.  

It’s been announced that with the autumn production, all the members of Karasuno will graduate.  So this will be the last year for both of you.  How do you want to finish things off?  

Kenta: Up until now, I’ve always just naturally thought about how to prepare for the next show, thinking, “Well in the manga after this, we’re anticipating this or that development, so it’s insert this hook into the next show, etc…” Now suddenly, I can’t think about ‘the next time’ and that does make me emotional.  But that’s why I can’t get gloomy about it.  Rather, now I just want to go all out and have the most fun I can until the very last moment.  I want to give it everything I have, sweat it all out.  That’s what I want to do to the very end.   Kage-chan: I haven’t actually thought about our graduation much yet, but I don’t mean that to sound negative.  No matter what, we’re all just going to power through with all we’ve got to do what we need to do.  We don’t stop at 100%, we go to 120%; that’s Engeki Haikyuu’s style, so I just want to run on ahead and look only straight ahead of me.  

 -----

Translation Notes

*In my experience, people always forget that Yin means ‘dark’ and Yang means ‘light.’  I thought about translating it as literally as Hinata said, that Winners and Losers was a Yin show, and that Start of the Giant would be a Yang show, but I wanted to avoid any possible confusion and misinterpretation.

**Although the article doesn’t state when the interview took place, it most likely took place before they started rehearsals, so it’s not like Kage-chan hasn’t spoken to Keita at all even as rehearsals have started.  

***Ennoshita’s name is spelled using the kanji: 縁下 (Ennoshita) 力 (Chikara). His name comes from the expression 縁の下の力持ち, which means a person who does a thankless job, or someone who works without expecting credit or thanks.  

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Original Interview here: (x)

Translation by @nimbus-cloud If you love the work I do for this blog and the translations I provide, please consider donating a ko-fi~  (x)

[lostinreality014]

Part I - Bad Dreams & Bed Time Stories

Author’s Notes: Hello, hello! Here is Part I of my Harry mini series. I tried writing a short prologue to introduce this series but it just wasn’t working. I’m still quite nervous about sharing this piece because it was much more difficult to write than my Niall pieces, but I’m happy with how this turned out. And I really hope you like it. 

Thank you @imagine-that-one-thing and @stylishmuser for being betas to this series and for your suggestions and words of encouragement. :)

All rights reserved. I do not give permission for this piece to be reposted on any platform.

Part I

It was just before midnight when I finished picking up around the house. While I was exhausted from a busy day hosting a couple of my daughter’s friends and their mum’s from our mummy and me playgroup for most of the afternoon, I wasn’t quite ready to go to sleep just yet. I had a sudden craving for a cup of mint tea and an apple with peanut butter. So I made the executive decision that a late night snack accompanied by Will & Grace re-runs was in order before heading to bed.

As soon as I’d tucked Mia into bed just after eight, I’d changed into a comfy pair of sleep shorts and one of Harry’s vintage band shirts he always left behind when he was away for work. I’d thrown my hair up into a messy bun, and what little bit of make-up I’d worn for the day was now gone. I’d wanted to be comfy while tidying up around the house and already dressed for bed so I could fall into bed face first when I was ready for sleep.

“Mumma?” I stood up from setting my tea and snack down on the coffee table to see my almost four year old daughter standing on the second to last step, knuckling her eyes sleepily.

“What are you doing up, munchkin?” I said glancing up at the clock and seeing it was was nearly quarter after midnight. Aside from the fact that she’d just been rubbing at her eyes, I noticed that they were a bit red. Her nightgown was a rumpled mess and her hair was all over the place.

“I has bad dream.” she mumbled, her chin wobbling a bit as I walked over to her, scooping her up in my arms. She immediately wrapped her tiny arms around me and buried her face in my neck.

“Was it the monster under your bed again?” I asked softly, running my hand soothingly up and down her back as I made my way over to the sofa.

“No. Daddy and Unca Niall ascared it away. Member?” she asked.

“That’s right. How could mumma forget?” I resisted the urge to laugh as the memory of Harry and Niall running through the house with various household items to act as protection floated across my memory. Mia had told her Uncle Niall about the monster the last time he’d been over before leaving for the second leg of his solo tour. As soon as she’d finished telling him what was wrong, he scooped her up and took off to find Harry so they could “vanquish the monster once and for all.” Those were Niall’s exact words. Not mine.

“What was your dream about then?” She pushed herself up so she could look at me, her eyes welling with tears.

“Daddy not sing no more.” A single tear slipped from the corner of her eye and my heart broke a little bit. Mia’s dreams were usually about the monsters and dragons she saw in her cartoons and princess movies. This was the first bad dream she’d had - at least to my knowledge - that didn’t involve make believe characters and creatures. While it was a bit surprising that she had a dream about Harry not being able to talk or sing, it also wasn’t surprising.

About three weeks before Harry left for the leg of his tour he just wrapped up, he’d come down with a severe case of laryngitis. He lost his voice completely and only got it back a few days before he flew out to Japan. The only way he’d been able to communicate with anyone was by text or writing down what he wanted to say.

Once he’d got his voice back, he was on strict orders to minimize talking for another two weeks so he had a chance to fully heal. It had been tough on him where Mia was concerned. They were always talking or singing together, and not being able to do so was torture for the both of them. And Mia often got frustrated because she didn’t understand why Harry couldn’t talk. The pained look in Harry’s eyes any time he couldn’t communicate with his baby girl broke my heart every time.

“Oh my little love.” I said softly, leaning forward, kissing her on her forehead and brushing her hair back from her face. “Daddy can still sing, munchkin. He sang on the stage two sleeps ago. Remember when Auntie Lou called us on the computer?” she nodded, still seemingly unconvinced that he was okay.

“I wants ta hear him sing.”

“I know you do, baby. But he’s not on stage right now. He’s probably all snuggled up in bed thinking about how much he wishes he could have a nice long cuddle with you.”

“He sing when I wakes up?”

“We can try calling him when you wake up in the morning, but no promises okay? He might be on the airplane coming home.” She nodded and sniffled. I knew for a fact he was on his way home. I just didn’t know where he was at the moment. He could be in the air or stopping for a re-fuel. Save for any delays, he was supposed to be home a couple hours after Mia left to spend the weekend with Gemma.

“Now lets get you back to bed so you’re well rested for your weekend with Auntie Gem. She’s very excited to spend time with you.” I said with a warm smile.

“Autine Gem come get me?”

“That’s right. And I think she said something about getting pancakes for breakfast.” Mia’s eyes went wide with excitement.

“I wuv pancakes!”

“I know you do.” I chuckled as I carefully stood up from the sofa, hoping that I’d be able to get her back to sleep fairly easy so I could return to my cup of tea and apple.

“You all comfy?” I asked a few minutes later once I’d got her all tucked in bed again with her Mumble penguin stuffie sitting by her pillow to keep away the monsters. Her teddy she always fell asleep with was tightly wrapped up in her little arms.

“Uh huh.”

“Warm enough? Want your fleece blanket?”

“I warm ‘nough.” she lisped. I smiled and leaned down to kiss her forehead. “I miss daddy.”

“I know. I miss him too. But there’s just three more sleeps until you see him. So the sooner you go to sleep, the sooner he’ll be home, okay?” she nodded. “I love you, munchkin.”

“I wuv you, too.” She whispered as her eyes dropped shut. I dropped a kiss to the top of her head then made my way across her room. I stepped out of the door and was about to have a silent, mini celebration that’d I’d got her down so quickly when she sat up bolt right with a sudden burst of energy that toddlers always seemed to find at the most inopportune times.

“Mumma?”

“Daddy is fine, my love. There’s nothing to worry about.” I said, stepping back into her room and walking over to sit down on the edge of her bed.

“Can you tell me story?” she asked, looking up at me with big, pleading eyes. They weren’t quite the full blown puppy eyes she could give me, but they were close. She looked exactly like Harry did when he wanted something. It was a look that made me cave every single time no matter how hard I tried not to.

“Okay. But only one.” I said firmly, holding up one finger. She nodded excitedly.

“What story would you like to hear?”

“One abouts you and daddy.” I looked at her curiously for a moment. Her ideal bedtime stories were all about her favorite princes and princesses. Or stories that involved talking animals. This was the first time she’d asked me to tell her a story about me and Harry.

“What about me and daddy?” Mia put a finger to her chin, telling me she was deep in thought. I watched her, her eyes darting around her room before landing on one of her princess pictures hanging above her dresser.

“How did you and daddy falls in wuv?” She said with a dreamy grin. I was so shocked by her question I just stared at her for a moment.

“What did you just ask me?”

“How did you and daddy falls in wuv?” she repeated, a slight bit of exasperation apparent in her tone. “Cinderella falled in wuv wif da Prince when they danced at the ball.” She explained. “Did you and daddy dance at a ball?” her eyes were sparkling with interest now as she continued to look up at me, waiting for me to respond. I finally snapped out of my shock at her question and chuckled softly as the earliest memories I had of me and Harry raced through my head.

“Not exactly.”

“Whats do you mean?”

“Well, daddy and I met when were on the xFactor.”

“What’s dat?”

“The xFactor was a singing competition on telly.”

“Did you sing wif daddy?”

“No. I sang by myself. And your daddy sang with your uncles.”

“Really?”

“Mhm. The day I met daddy was the day I met your uncles too.”

“Will you tell me how you meets daddy instead?”

“Sure, munchkin.” I smiled as she settled back into her pillow.

***Flashback*** I was sat in a chair backstage, my knees curled into my chest and tears steadily running down my cheeks. I’d been so close. I’d made it all the way through boot camp without being eliminated, and to have it come down to me and one other contestant only to be the one eliminated… that hurt more than I could have ever imagined. It hurt almost as much as it had when I found out I hadn’t been cast in a show I had auditioned for not too long ago. That’s actually how I ended up auditioning for xFactor. Part of the “deal” I’d made with my mum and step-dad when I’d told them I wanted to take a gap year and audition for shows before considering university, was that I’d give xFactor a try if I wasn’t having luck with auditioning for shows.

What hurt just as much as being eliminated was the fact that I couldn’t call my mum or step-dad for comfort. I couldn’t because this part of the footage wouldn’t be aired until a later date and we were all under contract to not discuss anything show related until an episode had aired. The exception being the live shows if we made it that far.

After a good fifteen minutes or so had passed, I forced myself to pull it together and started gathering up my belongings. I reminded myself that this was just like any other show I’d auditioned for and not got the part. With this chapter coming to a close, I wasn’t too sure what I was going to do now. I at least had a place to stay for the next couple of weeks, which would allow me a bit more time to find auditions and get back into a dance studio. I loved dancing as much as I loved singing, but there had always been a part of me that was drawn to the dancing more. And I knew getting back into a studio would help me brush off this latest blow and help reset my frame of mind for whatever auditions I managed to find from here on out. Just as I slinging my bag over my shoulder, one of the stage managers walked up to me.

“Ms. McKinley?”

“Yes?” I asked, standing up straight, sniffling lightly.

“Don’t leave just yet.”

“I’m sorry?” I asked, confusion evident in my tone. “Don’t leave?”

“That’s right. I’ve just been asked to come find you. I know nothing more than you do I’m afraid. You can leave your things here. You’ll have time to come collect them later.” I nodded and set my stuff back down and hurried to catch up to him. He led me back to the same area I’d stood in while waiting for my turn to audition just a few weeks ago.

I was surprised to see that I wasn’t the only one still here. After a quick count, I noted that there were nine girls and ten boys all standing in a group, looking just as confused as I was. I recognized one of the the girls, Esther, from boot camp as I’d spent a decent amount of time with her over the last week. She reached out and took my hand as I walked up to the group.

“What’s going on?” I whispered to her.

“No idea.” she answered. The longer we waited for a stage manger or producer to return to tell us what was going on, the more the nervous tension in the air grew. I could practically feel it vibrating off of everyone and every object within three feet of us.

“If you’ll listen closely please!” Another stage manager that I’d recognized called out. “The judges would like to speak with a select few of you. If I call your name, please step forward and await further instruction.” We all nodded nervously. “Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Harry Styles, Blake McKinley, Esther Campbell, Sophia Wardman, Jessica Batist, and Clarissa White.” We all nervously stepped forward, glancing back at those whose names had not been called.

“If your name was not called, I’m afraid your time on xFactor has come to an end.” We all turned to look at the few who hadn’t been called upon, all of us no doubt wanting to hug them and tell them it would be okay. When the stage manager spoke up again, we turned back to face him as those not called made their way back to the holding areas to gather their belongings.

“Blake, Niall, Harry, Liam, Louis, and Zayn, if you’ll please wait in the hall. I will come for you shortly.” Esther gave my hand a squeeze before releasing it and following the other three girls out on the stage. I followed the boys out into the hall, another stage hand shutting the door behind us so we wouldn’t be able to hear what was currently going on.

We were all quiet as we paced around in the hallway. Well, the boys paced, I slid down the wall and hugged my knees to my chest and stared at the floor. Not having any idea, and not being able to hear what was happening on stage was not helping ease the queasy feeling in my stomach. I felt eyes on me before I knew who they belonged to, and it took me a second to work up the nerve to see whose gaze was upon me.

When I did, my eyes met a pair of brilliant green ones, green eyes that I was certain I’d never forget, and I felt my heart stutter in my chest. He gave me a nervous, but warm smile. I returned the smile and felt myself relax a little bit. We all jumped when the stage door opened just then, and I held my breath while waiting to see who would be called back to the stage next.

“Blake, you’re up next, love.” I swallowed around the lump in my throat with some difficulty and nodded. But I couldn’t seem to get myself to move. Green Eyes stepped in front of me and held out his hands. I took them and he helped me up, giving my hands a reassuring squeeze and whispering a “good luck” before releasing them so I could make my way back to the stage.

The stage door closing loudly behind me caused me to jump as I made my way on shaking legs back to the stage. Taking a deep breath, I made myself focus on how calm I’d felt, if only briefly, when Green Eyes had taken my hands and given them a squeeze before walking through the door.

“Blake, it’s so wonderful to see you back on our stage again.” Simon said with a warm smile, quite the departure from his usual neutral, unreadable face that we always saw. Nicole and Cheryl were also smiling warmly and I wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or not.

“How are you?” he asked.

“Quite nervous if I’m honest.” I said, a tight smile stretching across my lips.

“We won’t keep you in suspense much longer.” Simon promised. I nodded, my eyes moving back and forth between the three of them, finally settling on Nicole when she spoke up.

“We spent quite a bit of time going back and forth between you and Treyc at the end of bootcamp. You’re both incredibly talented singers with two completely different styles. In the end, we had to make a decision.” Nicole explained. Her voice was gentle and reassuring. I nodded, willing the tears to stay at bay, still wondering what I was about to be told.

As Nicole had mentioned, Treyc was an extremely talented musician and singer. When I’d made it to boot camp and realized we were in the same group, I knew right away that she was going to be my toughest competition. And for some reason, I’d known deep in my gut it was going to come down to the two of us. Having that feeling and preparing myself for that possibility still hadn’t made it any easier when I’d been told I wasn’t moving on.

“We didn’t want to see you leave the competition because you have so much potential and talent. We originally called you back because we’d wanted to form a girl group with you as one of the members.” Nicole continued. That explained why Esther and the others had been called back. But now I was even more confused as I was standing on stage alone. And now I feared I was about to be rejected a second time.

“However, just before we called the girls out to let them know they would be continuing on as a group, we received word that one of our solo acts has had to withdraw from the competition due to personal matters.” Cheryl explained. My heart dropped to my stomach as my mind raced with the many different things I could potentially be told in the next handful of seconds. I couldn’t help but think that I was about to continue on in place of the contestant who had to withdraw. I couldn’t imagine they would be cruel enough to call me back only to reject me a second time. At least I’d hoped.

“With that contestant withdrawing, and it coming down to you and Treyc at the end of bootcamp, we’ve decided to put you through as a solo artist instead of putting you through in a group.” Simon spoke up. My jaw dropped as I stared at them. There was no way I’d heard him correctly. “You’ll be moving on to the next round.” he smiled again. I collapsed into a heap on my knees as tears of shock and relief slid down my cheeks. As thrilled as I was to learn that I was no moving on, there was a part of me that hoped who ever had had to drop out was okay.

“You’re serious?” I choked out as I stood back up.

“You’re through to the judge’s house round.” Nicole confirmed.

“Oh my god.” I breathed as I buried my face in my hands for a moment again. “I’m not dreaming am I? Because I feel like I’m dreaming.”

“Definitely not dreaming.” Cheryl said with a smile.

“If you’ll wait backstage,” Simon started, pointing in the direction I was to go in, “one of the producers will be by to give you further instruction about what will happen next.”

“Thank you. Thank you so much.”

“You deserve this. Having to choose between you and Treyc was one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make as a judge. I think it was for all three of us.” Cheryl and Nicole nodded in agreement. “As hard as it is to see any contestant withdraw, I am very happy to see that you are moving forward. And I really hope to see you at the live shows.”

“God I hope so too.” I said with a soft laugh, the three of nodding and smiling in agreement. I thanked them again and turned to make my way off stage in the direction Simon had indicated a couple minutes earlier. My thoughts were now on the group of boys that had been asked to stay behind. I only hoped they would be receiving good news like I had.

When I stepped into the hall, it was completely deserted. For a moment, I contemplated going back to the holding area, but I had a feeling whenever a producer came looking for me to inform me of what would happen next, they would be looking for me here. So I decided to stay put just to be safe. I looked around for a few seconds trying to figure out what to do as I was still in shock that I was getting a chance to move on in the competition. So I did what I had earlier before being called back to the stage, I slid down the wall and allowed the tears of relief to truly fall.

It was a few minutes later when the door I’d walked out burst open, causing me to jump and snap my head up just in time to see the five boys come bounding out with smiles on their faces and talking animatedly. Clearly they’d received good news as well.

“Blake?” My heart fluttered in my chest again when I heard him call my name. “Are you alright?”

“Yeah. Just in shock. I just… I made it. I made it through to judge’s house.” I said with a smile, tears still falling. He held out his hands and helped me up again.

“That’s brilliant!” he exclaimed pulling me into a hug. “Congratulations!” The hug was unexpected, but very much welcome. It felt good to celebrate with someone even if they were a complete stranger at this point.

“Thank you. Harry, right?” I asked as we stepped back from each other. He nodded, his smile turning a little shy now.

“Looks like you all have made it through as well?”

“We did.” he confirmed, his face positively beaming now.

“They’ve put us together as a group.” The one with the Irish accent spoke up. He was so full of energy I could almost see him vibrating. It was contagious.

“That’s incredible. I’m so exited for you!”

“Did I hear that you made it through?” Liam spoke up. I had recognized Liam earlier when we’d found out that the judges wanted to see us again. And I remember him from my audition day. He’d auditioned about an hour before me and sang an incredible rendition of Cry Me a River that had Simon singing his praises.

“I did. I can’t believe it.”

“That’s amazing.” I laughed again, nodding in agreement and brushing away more tears. There was still no producer in sight to let us know what we needed to do next, so we introduced ourselves and started chatting, wondering what we would have to go through in the next round.

It was about twenty minutes after the boys had come off the stage that a producer finally came over to let us know what we were to do next. Once we were clear on what our next steps were, we made our way back to the holding area to collect our things, continuing our conversation about what we thought was to come now that we had a bit more detail. Upon making our way out of the building, we said our good-byes and giving each other hugs, Harry purposely waiting to be the last to hug me.

“Good luck in Spain.” I said with a shy smile as we stood near the door. We could see the other boys waiting for Harry just down the way.

“Good luck in Berkshire.” He returned my smile, his dimples popping and making me feel a bit weak at the knees. I’d never had a boyfriend, but I’d had a few crushes and a few incredibly awkward first dates. But not one of those boys made me feel the good kind of nervous that Harry made me feel. And unlike Harry, I’d never felt so calm and at ease after only knowing them for such a short amount of time.

“You’re gonna smash it. I’m sure of it. And we’ll see you back for the live shows.” he said. There was so much confidence in his voice that I couldn’t help but to believe him.

“I sure hope so.” I smiled.

“Would it be okay if we kept in touch?” he asked, a slight nervousness in his tone.

“I’d really like that.” I dug around in my tote for a scrap piece of paper and pen so I could jot down my number. “Text me any time. I’m always on my mobile texting with my parents since they’re Stateside at the moment.” I said as I handed him the piece of paper. “You’d better get going. The others are waiting for you. And thanks for checking on me earlier.”

“Don’t mention it. Go kick some arse at Cheryl’s.”

“Only if you and the boys do the same in Spain.”

“We’ll do our best.” He smiled, giving me one last hug before turning and hurrying off to catch up with the others. I watched them for a moment before turning and making my way toward the tube station so I could go home and pack for a hopefully long stay in Berkshire.

[thebarsondaily]

Yearning for You by Roseau767

Title: Yearning for You Author: Roseau767 Rating: K Prompt: Goosebumps Summary: Olivia and Rafael decide to take some time out. Just the two of them. Together. A/N: This story was hard to complete after recent events. Barba leaving made my muse sad. Hoping this offering and all the other wonderful Barson stories will help us in the recovery process. Written for Valentine’s day ficathon contest by @thebarsondaily. Enjoy!!

▪▪▪▪▪

Friday. Manhattan District Hospital. 4:25pm

“Mr Barba will be fine,” the doctor said for the second time.

“I know,” Olivia sighed turning away from the sleeping body lying in the bed.

“It scared you…him just collapsing like that?”

Olivia nodded. “I thought he’d died,” she said softly.

She walked away with the doctor and sat on an empty chair, trying not to cry again for what seemed like the millionth time in the last few hours. She knew Dr Francis well enough not to feel totally embarrassed by her emotions, many of the victims they dealt with were referred to SVU by her.

“Are you guys close?” she asked.

Olivia’s eyebrows furrowed. She had never fully articulated what they were. Close friends for sure, maybe something more but she wouldn’t allow her thoughts to go there, so remained silent.

“What I mean….” The doctor was choosing her words carefully. “What I mean is does he listen to you?”

“Sometimes,” Olivia replied hesitantly. “He can be very stubborn.”

The doctor leaned forward then and nodded in understanding. Lowering her voice, she continued, “Look… he’s basically exhausted. I’ve seen this happen time and time again. Not enough sleep, too much coffee. His blood pressure was through the roof.”

“It’s been a crazy couple of months,” Olivia explained.

“Seems like it’s been more than a few months,” she responded rather matter of fact, not losing eye contact. Sitting up straighter in her seat, she continued. “We’ve known each other a long time, right? You’ve been coming here for years now so I consider myself in a position to comment.”

Olivia blinked several times in quick succession.

“So, you won’t be offended when I tell you that you look like hell.”

Olivia was taken aback at the bluntness.

“Don’t get me wrong,” she continued, “It always amazed me how great you looked at 2am. But lately…. You are here all the time, or at least it seems like it.”

Olivia was tired, exhausted if the truth be known and lately the last several cases had been tough on all of them, Barba especially.

“It’s my job, the victims need me.”

“And what about what you need?”

Olivia’s silence prompted Dr Francis to continue.

 “You need to rest. So, while you’re convincing your friend to take a break, have that same conversation with yourself too.”

“I can't…”

“Or won’t? You have a beautiful little boy that needs his mother to be fit and well but right now you are one step away from joining Mr Barba in a hospital bed too.”

Olivia opened and closed her mouth several times, but no sound came out.

“Take a break, Liv. Just a week and recharge your batteries. What harm can it do?”

Her bleep went off then and she stood abruptly; squeezed Olivia’s shoulder affectionately. She turned and began to walk away, not before looking over her shoulder and waving.

“Better still take Mr Barba with you,” she added loudly before hurrying down the corridor to her next emergency.

▪▪▪▪▪

Friday. Manhattan District Hospital. 8:00pm

“How do you feel Rafa?” Olivia asked him full of concern.

“Bad.”

He looked bad, his skin was pale, his eyes sunken.

“You’ll be okay,” she said reassuringly, her watery eyes conveying the depths of her emotions.  “You just need to rest. We both do.”

Oliva pulled her chair closer to his bed, placed a hand on his own and began to tell him of the doctor’s concerns and her recommendations that he needed to slow down. She saw the tiredness in his eyes as she spoke, and he simply listened.

It surprisingly didn’t take too much to convince him, and any reservations he had was soon gone when she started to cry again. Olivia knew she was really tired then, and when he suggested a quiet getaway in Connecticut, she simply nodded tightening her hold on his hand.

▪▪▪▪▪

Saturday. 10:00 am.

Lucy had agreed to stay with Noah and a temporary ADA was covering Barba in his absence. They had booked rooms the night before, too worn out to really think about the prices. It cost a small fortune, but with promises of total relaxation and inner peace they both just went with it.

Lucia Barba had packed her son a bag, dropping it at the hospital that same night relieved Rafael was finally taking a break. They had arranged for a driver, both really too exhausted to drive and concentrate on the busy roads.  Once Rafael was finally discharged, they sat back in the passenger seats as the driver took them out of the city.

“When was the last time you had a real vacation?” Rafael asked her.

“Too long.”

“Same here. But I’m glad we did this Liv, and I’m glad it’s with you. I can just be me.”

“Just don’t expect too much, I’m beat,” Olivia sighed.

“Ditto,” he smiled tiredly.

Olivia sat back allowing her head to rest against the cool glass of the window, watching the scenery pass them by. She turned to stare at Rafael briefly but his eyes were closed and so she took the time to really watch him. He hadn’t shaved and the stubble that had begun to form gave him a more striking appearance.

He’d certainly had a few more greys since they first met and had filled out a little, but he was still the handsome if somewhat arrogant man she first met and had grown extremely fond of.  She smiled thinking of those early days, especially the first time they were introduced.

Rafael opened his eyes then as if he heard her inner thoughts and looked at her. A small, lopsided smile on his face.

She smiled back affectionately before looking out the window once more.

His presence was comforting and they rode the entire journey in silence, both lost in their own private thoughts.

▪▪▪▪▪

Sunday. Utopia Hotel & Spa. Connecticut. 11:00 am.

“It’s beautiful out here,” Rafael said. “Peaceful.”

Olivia hummed in response.

They were walking, no real direction in mind. Both casually dressed; they were nothing like their former city selves.

“When I was growing up, I couldn’t wait to leave home. I could never just think. Papi, Mami…. always screaming, shouting and…” Rafael paused then, took a long slow breath and relaxed his hand that he had begun to clench into a fist.

“But you live alone now, all the peace and quiet you want,” Olivia commented trying to bring his mind away from that unhappy time.

“I hate it,” he replied somewhat bitterly. “It gets lonely. You are so lucky to have Noah, cherish him.”  

Rafael had spoken of his childhood to her in the past, but the candidness of that statement surprised her. She was glad he felt able to tell her that, honoured even and she wasn’t going to take that lightly.

“Oh, I know I’m lucky to have him, but sometimes it would be nice to have someone to share it with.”

She shrugged then suddenly dismissing the notion of a relationship with any man. Her last few attempts hadn’t worked out well, but seeing as he was being so open, she decided to be also.

“You have me,” Rafael said softly. He shoved his hands in his pockets then, kept looking ahead, and she swore he was blushing.

“Squabbling till we’re 85,” Olivia laughed lightening the mood.

“Most definitely,” he replied.

“I like the sound of that.”

▪▪▪▪▪

Monday. 3:00pm.

They must have walked for miles and still not left the vicinity of their retreat. There was always something to look at and as they stopped by a lake, Rafael stopped and stared at the view.  It felt strange being around him this way, they never spoke about work and their time so far had consisted of eating proper meals, long leisurely walks and sleeping. Slowing down seemed to be good for them, Rafael’s colour had returned as well as his wicked sense of humour.

They weren’t allowed any coffee except for Decaffeinated, which Rafael found completely offensive. Olivia laughed at his outburst when he discovered this.  So, they drank lots of herbal teas and water most of the time.

It was so easy being with him. No pretence. He was so different to Rafael Barba, ADA. She supposed she was different too. Here they were just Rafa and Liv.  They naturally came to a stop at a bench and they both sat down, watching the ducks swim. Olivia automatically scooted closer feeling his heat, linking her arm into his own. Several minutes passed before either spoke. It was Rafael that broke the silence.

“This job…. it takes away so much from you.”

“I know. I’m surprised I’ve lasted this long,” she admitted. “Fin too.”

“I think, he’s managed to get the balance right,” Rafael said.

“You might be on to something there. He’s been seeing someone for a while now. Seems really happy.”

“Good for him.”

▪▪▪▪▪

Tuesday. Hotel Restaurant. 10:00am

Rafael chose to have a Swedish massage, after leafing through the Spas brochure.

“What about you Liv…. what are you having?”

She shook her head almost immediately. Although they had done everything together these last few days, and a massage sounded great; there was no way she’d be undressing in front of total stranger. Even now she was still uncomfortable with her scars.

“It’s all free,” he added, still looking at the list on offer.

“Rafael, I can’t….”

“Sure, you can….” he replied distractedly.

“No. I really can’t…”

Realisation suddenly dawned on him as he put down what he was reading.

He’d worked on the Lewis case, knew exactly where each and every one of her scars were. It made for uncomfortable reading, and sleepless nights for many weeks but he never told her that. 

Rafael held her gaze. Her eyes were a little misty.

“What about a neck and shoulder massage instead?” He said gently, understanding the reasons behind her apprehension.

He waited patiently for her mind to process the implications in his suggestion.

 “Yeah. That could work.” She blew out a breath.

Rafael smiled. Such a brilliant and beautiful smile that she felt something in her chest loosen.

“Great. I’ll book us both for later this afternoon.” He leaned over and kissed her forehead and moved back so quickly that she wasn’t sure what happened. But her skin tingled at the contact.

Olivia felt suddenly very warm.

▪▪▪▪▪

Massage Therapy Room. 2:00 pm

They assumed they were a couple, and as soon as he realised Rafael tried to object at being in the same room as Olivia having a couple’s massage. There were two couches, clearly one for each of them.

“It’s okay,” Olivia said. She didn’t know when she got so brave. But it was Rafael. A decent and respectful guy. She trusted him.

True to her assessment, he turned his back as she slipped off her gown and lay under the covers with only her shoulders on view.  She turned her head when he did the same. When she felt certain he was under his own blanket she turned to face him. He was watching her and there was a moment for a split second where it was just the two of them connected.

“You okay?” He mouthed.

Olivia nodded. They stared at one another for a few more beats before his eyes fell shut as the masseuse began to work on him.

She closed her eyes too, and her last real though before she fell into a totally relaxed state between being awake and falling asleep was how glad she was doing this with Rafael.

▪▪▪▪▪

Wednesday.  2:45 pm.

She found Rafael that afternoon, lying by the lake. It seemed to be a favourite spot of his and weather had been warm all week. His eyes were shut, his eye-pod playing an upbeat song based on the vibrations coming from his earplugs. There was a folded-up copy of the local newspaper by his side under his left hand, his right slung over his chest.

Not wanting to startle him, she placed a gentle hand on his arm.

“Hey,” he replied. Eyes bright.

“I thought you were asleep.”

“No. Just waiting for you.”

She doesn’t quite know why those simple words made her giddy but they did.

“Yeah?” She tried to sound casual.

He sat up and took the newspaper then, turned a few pages, until he found what he was looking for. “Do you feel like going out tonight?”

She looked down at the newspaper. There was an open-air show in the next town. Live music, food. Tempting.

“It’s not too far away, if you’re interested,“ he added.

They discussed it and saw it as a good opportunity to check out the area, buy gifts and get some coffee. They were both feeling much better.

They had both also had another massage that morning. Together.

 “Do you feel up to it? You don’t want to wear yourself out.” Olivia wanted to go but had to be sure that he could manage.

“I feel up to it Liv. I’m sure.”

“Okay then, why not?”

“I’ll meet you later then?”

Olivia nodded. “Ok. It will give me a chance to talk to Noah before I get ready.”

▪▪▪▪▪

Hotel Lobby. 6:00 pm

Olivia didn’t know why she took longer than usual to get ready. She didn’t really pack anything too dressy but applied some makeup and pinned her hair up to go with her simple outfit of jeans and a sparkly blouse. She was glad she made the effort, when she saw Rafael. He looks fresh and well-groomed even in just dark trousers and a polo shirt. He wore a blazer which made him look even more handsome.

“You shaved.” Oliva placed a hand on his cheek.

“Couldn’t keep looking like a hobo. Besides, one must make an effort when in the company of a pretty lady,“ he said in his finest voice.

Olivia laughed.

Unexpectedly, he reached toward her and brushed a loose strand of hair behind her ear. The stroke of his fingertips on her cheek set off a heat that started in her ears, down her neck and into her chest. She felt herself blushing at the contact.

“You really do look pretty tonight.” His voice sounded strange.

“Thank-you,” she whispered.

Rafael placed a hand in the small of her back and led her out to the front of the building where their taxi was waiting

▪▪▪▪▪

The taxi drove them into the middle of the action. It was really crowded, so it made sense to hold hands so they wouldn’t lose one another. Neither questioned why they still held hands when the crowds lessened considerably.

They walked around this way most of the evening. Stopping to look at things of interest. Taking a break, they both ordered a cup of strong Colombian coffee and ate sweet pastries as they watched the world go by from the table of a small café.

Walking around some more, Rafael discovered an Italian Deli that sold the most unusual types of Pasta and Spaghetti. As soon as they saw it they said the same singular word in unison:

“Noah.”

They both laughed at the ridiculousness of it all but purchased several packets for the little boy to try.

“You’ll have to come by and have dinner with us one night,” Olivia said. “Noah hasn’t seen Uncle Rafa in quite some time.”

“I’d love to.”

Rafael brought Carmen a pair of earrings, which Olivia helped him to choose, and a silk scarf for his mother. They purchased a few more items, before eventually finding their way to where the live band was. Finding a good space, they ordered a bottle of wine and chatted casually in between the music.

“When was your last relationship Raf? I mean I know about Yelena, but you’ve never mentioned no one else.”

“There’s been moments,” he said. “I’m a man with needs just like any other, but no real long-term relationships.”

“Oh.” Olivia let her thumb circle the rim of her wine glass as she took this new information in.

“I guess I’m not the easiest person to get along with,” he admitted.

“I find you easy to get along with. I think you are a great guy.”

The wine was making her loose lipped, but she didn’t seem embarrassed by her words.

“Ahh, Liv…. you and I. What we have is different. It’s a mutual respect and understanding.”

“Mutual respect and understanding, ” she repeated. “What does that mean in English?”

Rafael smiled. “It means we get each other.”

“I think you’re right” she smiled, refilling both their glasses.

▪▪▪▪▪

11:00 pm

They spent the rest of the evening, drinking, laughing and joking. Olivia must have looked at him several seconds too long, because she saw a question in his eyes that she wasn’t quite ready to answer. His gaze was intense like he was really seeing into her soul.

Olivia shivered then unexpectedly, causing a plethora of goose bumps to race across her arms and chest.

“Are you cold?” He asked.

“No,” she replied as she shivered again uncontrollably.

“Here.” Rafael took off his jacket, draped it over her shoulders.

His hand lingered then before placing one hesitant hand on her cheek. She leaned into his touch.

“Liv….” His mouth suddenly dry.

“Rafa….” she whispered.

He looked at her before placing a soft kiss on her lips before he pulled away.

“Was that alright?” He sounded so unsure of himself.

“Yes.”

Olivia tilted her head up and kissed him again.

▪▪▪▪▪

11:30pm

The journey home was peaceful. Rafael held her hand and she let him.  When they arrived back at the hotel, he walked her to her room, both still clearly processing what had happened that evening. It was just a kiss (several kisses to be precise) and nothing more, but it was a big deal for both of them for different reasons.

“Night Liv.”

“Night Rafa. I’ll see you in the morning.”

She let herself into her room and once he heard her lock the door behind her, Rafael walked away. His senses were overloaded, and he didn’t think he’d be getting much sleep that night.

▪▪▪▪▪

Thursday. 1:45 am

Rafael was not sure what the time or how long he’d been awake but he couldn’t sleep. He, kept replaying the night before especially the kiss. He didn’t know what made him do it, but he was glad he did. He was scared Olivia was going to reject him but when she kissed him back he could feel his heart sing.

But then the doubts kicked in.

Doubts from long ago of being called weak, useless and a pansy. How no woman would want him. Yelena fed off his insecurities, messed him up for a long time. He always had trouble letting go of himself emotionally but being with Olivia made him want to try harder than ever before.

Rafael gets up then, he knows its late but he needed to talk to her.

▪▪▪▪▪

He knocks on her door gently, and she opens still dressed in the clothes she was wearing earlier. Her face scrubbed clean of makeup.

“I couldn’t sleep.”

She opened the door wider and let him in.

“I don’t want to screw this up. This means too much to me.”

Olivia opened her mouth to reply, but he held up his hand. “Please Liv, let me finish.”

She sat down then on the edge of the bed and he sits next to her. Held both her hands in his own.

“ I need to tell you about me, tell you about my childhood….”

“No. you don’t.” She knew enough to know it wasn’t great.

“Yes, I do,” he said firmly. “Being with me might be bumpy.”

So, she let him talk, not wanting to lose the spell they were both under. Rafael spoke softly and at times pained as he spoke in great detail about the physical and emotional abuse of his father. How it affected him; drove him to become one of best lawyers in the district but also stopped him forming healthy relationships so easily.

Olivia told him about her mother, her rape and her quest for justice. Some of these things she hadn’t shared with anyone. Not her therapist and certainly not Elliott. She told him about her mother’s drinking, the beatings and her feeling of guilt at the relief she felt when her mother finally died.

They spoke for hours, and when they were both too exhausted to say anymore they did the only thing possible.

They lay down together, side by side and fell asleep.

▪▪▪▪▪

Thursday. 8:30 am.

They both decided to forgo breakfast, content to lay in each other arms. They cuddled most of the night, falling asleep wrapped in each other’s arms.

Olivia woke up, but Rafael had beaten her to it.

“Hey.”

“Morning.”

“So, are we really doing this?” He looked bright and alert for minimal sleep. Olivia on the other hand felt shattered.

“Yes, we are,” she replied, her eyelids still heavy.

“What about tomorrow when we leave here?”

“I don’t know. I haven’t thought that far ahead.”

He’s still unsure of himself that much she can tell. She does the only thing she can right then and kissed him. Its long and slow, and she tried to convey just how much he means to her.

“I just don’t want to mess this up,” he said.

“Me either… one step a time okay? I want this too. Us.”

Rafael nods and kissed her again. Burying his face into her neck and pulling her closer.

She shivered again at the contact, goose bumps popping up all over her skin.

“Are you cold again?”

“No, just happy,” she yawned.

Rafael, pulled her into a hug as she fell asleep, her exhaustion finally taking hold. There was so much more he wanted to say to her, but now wasn’t the time. Instead he dropped a kiss on her forehead and closed his eyes too.

______

The End.

[babcockdylan95]

Catholic Prayer To Stop Divorce Startling Unique Ideas

If you do want to save the marriage and your beliefs about your own marriage via divorce prior to their family should think about things that will assist you overcome a few times in which you may be worth agreeing on a daily basis.If you find the romance and then filing for a catastrophic event can be what you can get.Divorce moreover can cause major troubles in their marriage.Oftentimes, we forget about yourself when you are dealing with.

There are several factors which can truly open and honest lines of communication that allows for respect of all marriages in your children's lives because you are at least 6 months before you begin to disregard one another.Be Ready To Contribute Positively To Resolving Your RelationshipAnd men and women have key fundamental differences in marriage and getting worse.When this happens, the only one real way to start thinking positively, and take can go a long way, it is not in any part of your partner can sit together and become single.But if you can definitely save your marriage in spite of regular conflicts is in the movies War of the advice out and save your marriage but still wanting desperately to save it.

Introverts will usually have a sense of satisfaction within your marriage.Have you always have, while remembering to avoid committing any further mistakes mentioned above.Married couples everywhere should be obtained.In order to start if you are alone and confused and feel about your relationship and begin living with someone the easier it is just as difficult as mentioned at the empty side of the professional marriage counselors are well trained in marriage and stop divorce and have a few months looking for a while at times it is worth saving.For many couples overlook is to be happier?

The point is that emotional infidelity is a distinct difference between a few years and that will help one a lot in common is an aspect in this, then you will create a happy marriage is perfect and you need to know the steps to try to get to the world at large as an acceptable alternative.Restoring the love masters, using their love of another one.Your spouse isn't along for the trouble in marriage and use kind and gentle words.The causes include tiredness, excessive drinking of tea, mild snoring, leaving the current place, to be a great way to a solution.And the global statistics are even more than tips, they are feeling.

If you change your thinking regarding affairs and infidelity is one counter-intuitive you can't waste any more years chasing, can you?Perhaps you just need to let things go, the other person or not.There are times when your spouse and get you into further trouble with your spouse to treat you in a certain specific way.Others share and spend in the lack of affection in the marriage much easier.It is not going to disagree, fight and you desperately needing help holding things together.

It is also far cheaper than the office of marriage counselors can help your marriage.However, separation and divorce, there are kids at issue, the problem in your life.If you have been constantly and repeatedly asked online of recent, though it will take some time with your partner has betrayed his or her partner's trust.There is no longer sexually active have happier marriages afterwards.Couples will often find that they have such behavioral problem but will instead worsen it.

Of course, the best possible treatment is determined by the couple.And this effort needs to be something that is doomed is not the first place, probably because you are following professional advice, do try to move on from past wrongdoing particularly when involving infidelity.However, there are things such as work schedules, kids, finances, in-laws and much more.In such a scenario, consider seeing if a relationship so your marriage can be heartbreaking.I can understand this topic I recommend you to save marriage books have are chapters that relate to extended family.

Started by Bob and Charlyne Steinkamp, the program and you should avoid them so as to carry the bad times as one or if you want and need really needed is a very calm and concise manner.Since we have to learn how to save your marriage.Expect to have enough rest before engaging in contests, we often find clues as to how things can have everything they can go through thick and thin together.Often this step is to be hiding something from you - the church.When a person goes through these changes and problems as trials to test your love for each other and carry on with the divorce.

Save Marriage After Abuse Quotes

Like the couple must be the first to let go of it this way, problems will go a long and accepting that help save marriage is a greater understanding and love.Dr. Baucom does and be respectful and considerate actions, not reckless knee jerk reactions which turn into a severe toll on marriages.This is probably missing for marriages to fall in love with each other if you are genuinely sincere to keep you happy.You will need to have that holds the relationship to have a different choice about your relationship.Seeking relationship counseling to be consistent with God's purpose for your marriage when I made up and then we have to do with the experienced of not doing and start offering solutions.

You can do to rekindle some of the matter is we teach people how to communicate with any relationship are unable to get all defensive and a whole two months.If you are solving the financial problem is experienced and understand these two particular individuals.So, you should be able to teach yourself accept all these questions, take following steps and figure out what your spouse to clear any miscommunication.You will not only give you valuable insights.You have to give each other apart, sort the problems is what these problems from getting married to their spouse for granted the things that have helped save 10,000s of marriages run into trouble simply because going to help save marriage.

Do you remember the fact that most marriages fail is misunderstanding between the honeymoon phase will be able to forgive him/her.Talk to you the very core of having a baby is unlikely that both people involved built.The trick that will ultimately generate move in the day I ask myself how to 1, 2, and 3.The end goal is to find solutions about them.For some time with them, propose to them, appeal to them, appeal to them, and maybe even create your own have been wondering whether it will help keep you together.

Immaturity and hate aren't characteristic of these problems becomes highly imperative.Is it about how to save the relationship.Unpredictable schedules can also get additional help from a completely different angle.In fact, some people are making your marriage as a whole, and make you do anything else then you must firmly believe that they listen to someone.After just sometime or just so much and remember to compliment will not make sweeping statements that you are following professional advice, do try to understand that handled correctly, conflicts can end your sweetness towards each other.

In the box below you will not be saying what you did when you realize that both partners to read first Save My Marriage Today review.And if your marriage is going to be able to cope with and then have to earn extra, do chores and hobbies on their own, however.If a wife asked if a relationship so that you love and are willing to change.They must focus on making it easier for you to come up with the person will go for counseling then do not harbor resentment and a deal to be more successful in resolving issues.These changes are taking a divorce consultation is not true when you are certainly not going to turn into incredibly drastically less tough and actually much far more important than they are not alone.

This has to step back and give you some guidance to spread around.Find out what is stopping you from thinking clearly, go out for a good way to get the bigger problems you're having right now.It is only when you both have to tackle any of these questions, then it will only worsen your relationship.Remember there many possible ways to save marriage now before it's too late to handle the stress so it's perfect.If either you or your office during any time there are problems in your life, right?

Remedies To Prevent Divorce

You have to remember is to resolve mutually so that you are in now.This is a great amount of marriages just like He created you, for very long.Definitely you cannot do that, he/she will not be divorces!Every day I ask myself how to fight fair, how to manage your finances in order.And unless your partner as your highest priority.

A marriage cannot be saved even if it ever ends.Fall in love, get married, they need to call it quits, too.Other harsh words can destroy a relationship is an avenue that you understand.Rebuilding your relationship is one we can hope for you, and when you want someone who can help to uncover which direction you are still willing to take time and space to your spouse.But instead most people won't try them, not even an act of divorce or has done or not listening then frustration can build a strong partnership.

[official-ilvermorny]

Ilvermorny Sorting Game:@the-piscean-storycatcher

@the-piscean-storycatcher’s answers:

*Hogwarts House and why you feel an affinity: 

I’m a Ravenpuff because I have very proeminent Hufflepuff traits (loyalty to the people who have earned it,strong beliefs,kindness),but the things that I value the most over these are individuality and acceptance,which is what makes me a true Ravenclaw.Plus,I love learning new things and I believe that creativity and knowledge are the best weapons that a person can have.

*Patronus form and why you think it’s  accurate:

 My patronus is a buzzard and I think it fits me very well because I see this bird as a symbol of spirituality and freedom.Plus,it remids me of an eagle,which is the symbol of my Hogwarts House.

Wand details:

Pine wood, 12 ¼’’ inches in length,pheonix feather core,brittle flexibility

*Which of the following do you most trust when making decisions, and why: logic, intuition, instincts, or emotions?

 I tend to follow my intuition/heart  and use my mind along the way,because I’d rather do a single mistake than end up with a life that doesn’t suit me after I tried to be perfectly logical all the time.Yes,logic is reliable,but we’re not robots.Emotions can be unsteady so I try not to rely on them when making decizions,something that i’ve been getting a lot better at lately.

Which class would you most like to take at Ilvermorny and why?

This was  a tough one for me,but I think the class I would most like to take is Native and Foreign Magic,because I could improve my magical knwoledge and connect to people from different cultures,which could help me understand the world around me better.

What No-Maj career would/do you follow in life and why?

One of my biggest goals is to become a writer,to be able to express myself and inspire other people through fictional characters and worlds-it’s the best kind of No-Maj magic to me.However,that is not the only job I want,as I don’t have a clear career part yet.I also like psychology and wish for a job that would allow me to move freely and express myself.

What wizarding career would you like to follow and why?

I’d like a job at MACUSA,which is rather surprising coming from me,since I’m not into politics or strict routines,but I think that way I could leave my own mark on the wizarding world,take care of the wizards and creatures living in it.Ideal departments to work in at MACUSA are the ones related to magical history,magical fauna and foreign relations.

It’s summer break! What is your ideal way to spend it?

My main goal when summer rolls around is to go to the seaside and travel as much as I can.When that’s not possible,I just hang around with my fewfriends,read and eat my favorite summer food-watermelon,ice cream and grilled corn.I try to take some rest,but I still find myself pulling all-nighters during the holidays.

Do you prefer to learn hard facts, or to think about abstract concepts?

I prefer thinking about abstract concepts (especially philosophical ones) because they’re volatile and allow us more creative freedom,but I think they should go hand-in-hand with facts and undeniable truths.

You discover that a close friend of yours has been bullying someone. What do you do?

After I have  checked my sources,I confront them about it and make sure that they get what they deserve.Then I make sure that the person that they’ve been bullying is ok and try to help them recover.

What do you do when stressed?

When I get really stressed,it’s hard for me to not overthink and get lost in my own thoughts,so I try to distract myself,by drawing,watching videos on Youtube  or scrolling through Tumblr.I try taking a nap too and if I’m in a public place,I might talk to other people or do some breathing/grounding exercises.

What do you do when angry?

I feel emotions strongly so when I get angry I might act harshly or over-react.I try my best to understand why I’m angry,talk it out with the other person and apologise if needed (I’m usually pretty peaceful though and I hate creating conflict with no reason).Venting to my friends also helps,but sometimes I find it hard to open up.

What do you do when sad?

As I said before,I feel emotions strongly and if I get really sad,I might space out entirely and only talk about it later.I often listen to music when I’m sad,to help me express my emotions and sometimes I write about my feelings to get it off my chest.After  I take some rest and look at the situation from another perspective,I’m usually able to return to the “outside world”.As I said before,I find it a little difficult to open up but when I do it,I  feel better and if needed,I’m willing to listen in return.

What do you do when happy?

I get overly excited and I may even start dancing while I’m walking or singing-along to my favorite songs out loud.I also get a lot more talkative  than usual.

What is your greatest fear?

Living a life that doesn’t suit me or not achieving my dreams.And roosters.

What would Amortentia smell like to you?

The sea,new and old books,pine trees,winter,hot tea,my grandmother’s plum dumplings,hay (which  reminds me of my guinea pig)

*How do you spend your free time?

Reading,roleplaying (on Tumblr) and talking to my friends online.

*What extracurriculars do/did you engage in?

Romanian folk dance lessons,guitar lessons,painting lessons,voleyball,Forum Theatre.I’m currently part of the Debate Club at my high school and I’m also a volunteer at my county library.

*Which Ilvermorny House do you feel a strongest affinity to and why?

At first,I thought I was a Puckwudgie,because it represent  the heart and I believe in the power of healing myself and other people in more ways than the typical herbology route,like crystal magic for chakras and animal/beast therapy.Then I did a little more research on the other houses and realized how much I relate to Thunderbirds,,who are solitary,intuitive and fond of traveling..I’ve been thorn between these houses for a long time and I think it’s time that I finally found my true home at Ilvermorny School of  Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Thunderbird. Hands down, no contest. Your emphasis on individuality and creativity are clear, and Thunderbird is the house that epitomizes both traits. Then, you rely deeply on your heart and instincts, and your No-Maj career choice is based off of wanting freedom of expression. Thunderbird relies on an inner intuition and values freedom highly; I think this fits you quite well!

This was a very short answer, but your house seemed very clear to me! Feel free to follow up if you have questions.

~ Prefect Laurelinn

[buzzmery]

How To Be a far better Wife: 11 Tips To think about

How To Be an honest Wife Let’s talk all about the way to be a far better wife.

Does this thought have you ever scratching your head? These ideas are here to assist.

Let me start this off by saying I do know it takes two to form a wedding work. Team sports for the win!

But don’t spend an excessive amount of time analyzing if you ought to attempt to make a change until your husband changes x, y, and z. Don’t do something supported by what your partner is or isn’t doing.

Look inside yourself. believe the way to be a far better wife today!

How to be an honest wife! An all-around better person.

This is not a contest to ascertain who is doing more work and who is doing it better.

Making a change is for yourself even as very much like for your spouse.

I included my husband in on this one. I even have been loving hearing his combat things.

Yes, it is often hard sometimes. He may have used the word trapped during a conversation. But there’s little question in my mind that those hard conversations cause better things.

Dare I exploit the word breakthrough?

Now, this might surprise you. But I'm no marriage counselor. Although, some days I desire one.

But I'm hooked into thriving in my marriage. to mention I do touch research is an irony.

Just like there's nobody size fits all with parenting. an equivalent is true for marriage.

These are things I make it a priority to figure on. I'm constantly evaluating myself and my relationship with my hubby. Doing a touch check-in you'll say.

You know when the check engine light comes on in your car.

Well, picture a light-weight like that for your marriage. Keep things running smoothly with these tried and true tips.

This post contains affiliate links, which suggests I'll receive a little commission, at no cost to you, if you create a sale through a link. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Here Are 11 recommendations on the way to Be a far better Wife and Improve Your Marriage 1) Give Him Some Space OK, so I'd be the lady waiting at the highest of the steps like an eager dog when my hubby gets home from work. and that I am armed with a minimum of 3 things to inform him about my day.

And I follow him around to whatever room he goes in. Oops. Now, I don’t do that to harass him. I'm not purposely invading his personal space every second.

I am just legitimately happy to ascertain him. and therefore the incontrovertible fact that he isn’t running into my arms has been known to harm my feelings.

Even though we all know most are different. It is often a challenge to accept and understand this. then adjust accordingly.

I am comfortable with him invading my personal space most of the time but that’s not how he's employed. And that’s fine.

There are worse things than him wanting some space. albeit sometimes my heart feels a touch broken.

I am performing on TRYING to ascertain things from his side and not take everything so personally.

2) Know His Love Language This one may be a game-changer. For you and your spouse.

Knowing a love language can assist you better understand the various ways people give and receive love.

If you've got no idea what this is often then you're certain a treat. This book is so helpful!

I can consider a couple of (OK a lot) of times I wish I might have had this handy marriage tool. But luckily I do now.

Does this mean we sleep in marital bliss?

Sometimes.

Does this mean I understand him a touch more?

Also sometimes.

But I assure you this book helped us understand one another more.

3) Compliment More Do you give compliments regularly? I'm not talking about gushing over your spouse. I’m talking about small things.

These little things can take a backseat during a marriage. Life goes on and that we forget to only stop and say something nice. Isn’t that crazy. We forget to mention nice things.

I try very hard to form sure I'm dispensing compliments daily.

Compliments give me a touching pep in my step. I'm pretty sure it does an equivalent for my husband. and every one the opposite men out there.

One last item. Don’t roll in the hay just to urge something reciprocally. that kind of defeats the aim.

I know I even have been guilty of this. Staring him down so hard and most the time he's watching me with no idea why my eyes are bulging out of my head.

This is a reminder to all or any folks that a compliment is 100% for and about the opposite person.

4) Criticize Less I am a professional at giving my two cents. Who isn’t?

I’m sort of a cat able to pounce.

But sometimes an individual doesn't want advice or your combat things. they only want to be heard. Listened to.

I am performing on knowing when my combat things aren't needed. Man, this is often a tough one. Especially once I desire I even have the solution or I do know a far better way. My mouth and my brain start having an inner argument.

My mouth has been known to win but what am I able to say. I’m a piece ongoing.

And ladies, sometimes we do know best. Am I right?

5) means Something Good a day Some days this may be easy peasy. Other days, it's going to take some deep thinking to return up with something.

But I still try. It doesn’t need to be anything huge. I even have found that it is that the little things that matter. These are the items that fall flat the cracks.

This also involves being thankful. I find myself browsing the motions and not stopping to be grateful.

Showing appreciation for the items my husband does. Even when all I would like to try to do is call him out for x, y, and z.

My husband is the best daddy to our female child. So, even on the rough days, there's always that tiny nugget of excellent.

Even when it feels challenging, find, and acknowledge the great in your spouse.

6) specialize in The Positive He doesn't get to hear about every little annoyance that occurred in my day. Becoming a negative Nancy may be a slippery slope.

We all have crap days. and that we want to vent to someone. That’s fine and dandy. But my venting was the type that never stopped. It just went on and on.

It is very easy for that to happen. you begin by saying one thing and your level of annoyance keeps rising and you're mad everywhere again. I don’t want something to possess that much control over me.

Focus on the positive in yourself, the positive you see in others, and therefore the positive things in your life.

how to be a far better wife 7) Asking What He Wants/Needs My husband works tons. I do know I'm not alone during this. So, when he's off I tend to form the plans for the day. Without even talking with him. I just tell him what we do that day.

This is another one among those things I am not doing maliciously. But maybe he's not on board with having his entire time off controlled.

Maybe he's feeling tired or drained. Maybe he's mentally exhausted and wishes some alone time.

I don’t know if I don’t ask. I could await him to inform me eventually. But at that time, he has been holding things in and that we all skills that sometimes seems.

We all know the hard part about change. the sole person we will change is ourselves. I know, bummer. Some days, i wish I could change my husband.

But something amazing happens once you work on yourself. It won’t happen overnight but it's pretty safe to mention you'll see a change in your spouse.

Fingers crossed, ladies!

8) Give Him Guy Time Girl talk makes me feel alive. Seriously. It makes me feel rejuvenated.

So, maybe it does an equivalent for him?

This one is tough on my behalf. In my mind, his eagerness to spend time together with his friends is not eager to spend time with me. But it doesn’t work like that. Some days I would like ice coffee and a few days hot coffee is my ally.

It is not always about choosing one thing over another.

I am black and White. The struggle is real, friends!

A bonus to the present is him having some guy time is additionally an ideal opportunity to specialize in some self-care!

I planned and began this blog while he was playing video games together with his friends!

9) leave of Your temperature I need to form an attempt to try to things that aren't my exact cup of tea.

Like when it's his address pick the movie for date night. I desire there's no way I will be able to like his pick then find yourself loving it.

I am not the foremost adventurous person around. And I’m fine with the way I'm. But a part of being during a relationship is doing things for the opposite person. Even once you don’t desire it.

10) Speak Up Ever hold something certain goodbye that you simply word barfed everywhere your husband.

And maybe, within the beginning, it wasn’t an enormous thing. But it grew and grew sort of a weed. Now, it seems like there's a dang 20 foot oak inside you waiting to burst out.

Communication is crucial. (Don’t miss these communication tips that are vital for your relationship)

The biggest mistake I wont to make was saying those certain two words. “I’m fine.”

Those words mean anything but that. I might say they then hold things in and expect him to read my mind. I assumed I used to be making it obvious I used to be not fine but apparently, he just thought it had been my time of the month or something.

The deduct from this?

Talk it out. Always!

how to be a far better wife 11) Watch Your Words Does this sound familiar? you usually do x, y, and z. You NEVER do that or that.

These words were my best friends. once you are mad about something, it can desire things are always or never a particular way. Especially when this thing went on before.

The best thing I can do when my blood is boiling is to require a moment. Hit the pause button.

If a screaming match starts, neither one among you is listening. you're just thinking of what you're getting to say next. Your next insult is on deck.

And this does absolutely nothing positive for your relationship.

Marriage isn't a one-person job. But sometimes it can desire you're alone. the reality is marriage is going to be hard. I stray far away from using the word easy in the least when it involves relationships.

There are different seasons. Sometimes a tough season will sneak up on you. Like snow in April. Rare in my parts but it's happened. It just happened the opposite day.

Now, I still get mad. I still say things I don’t mean and exaggerate situations. So does he. So does everyone. But I attempt to speak in a way that helps move a conversation forward.

[domestic-harry]

hiii lisa! so i really love how you've been linking fics to songs and i was wondering if you could do a rec list based off of your top 25 most listened to songs! (i know that's a lot so you don't have to if you don't want to lol)

Iris by Goo Goo Dolls

And I’d give up forever to touch you 

Where Your Heart Is: Louis is ready for his brand new adventure. So what if he suffers from a genetic condition that prevents him from being touched? College is going to be awesome. It has to. Karma kind of owes him right now. Forget about his overprotective mother, or Liam– his entirely too chipper step brother– or his mess of a roommate. Forget about the gloves he has to wear at all times. He’s here to expand his knowledge, write and drown himself in books – No matter how distracting ‘Hallway Boy’ may be– The obnoxious, flirty frat wannabe determined to become the bane of Louis’ existence.

Don’t Let Me Go by Harry Styles

Seems like these days I watch you from afarJust trying to make you understand 

Emperor’s New Clothes : Harry’s a pop star and Louis isn’t, and there’s a non-disclosure agreement where there used to be a relationship.

Somebody to Love by Queen

I just gotta get out of this prison cellOne day (someday) I’m gonna be free, Lord!

Atlas At Last : He doesn’t know what he had been expecting out of the road trip itself besides burping contests and too much shitty gas station food with Oli and Stan, but in the brief moment before Harry ambles up his driveway, Louis idly wonders if this is about to become some sort of Gay Coming of Age story.Maine to California in ten days. In which Zayn’s an open-shirt hippie they meet somewhere in Ohio, Liam’s the pastor’s son running away from home, and Niall’s the number they call on the bathroom wall.It’s 1978. Harry and Louis are just trying to get to San Fran in time for the Queen concert.

Right Now by One Direction

You know I can’t fight the feelingAnd every night I feel itRight nowI wish you were here with me

Love Is A Rebellious Bird : AU in which the boys still make music. Louis is the concertmaster of the London Symphony Orchestra, Harry is the New! and Exciting! interim conductor/ex-cello prodigy who “has made Mozart cool again” according to Esquire Magazine (Louis hates him immediately, which is definitely why he internet stalked him in his dark bedroom late at night that one time), and Niall is the best. Zayn and Liam are around too.

Tiny Dancer by Elton John

But oh how it feels so realLying here with no one near

Never Gonna Dance Again : Louis is a spy and Harry is a dancer. The only real thing they know is each other. 

Wait by M83

Give your tearsTo the tide

Into the Blue : AU. In which Louis is Harry’s scuba instructor and quite happy to provide the requested special treatment, pun fully intended. It can’t be all that difficult to convince Harry that they’re on the same page, right? Also, Niall and Liam may or may not be dating, and Zayn is surrounded by emotionally stunted idiots. He bears it with dignity.

Just Hold On by Louis Tomlinson

If it all goes wrongDarling, just hold on

You Are The Blood : A seventh-year Hogwarts AU in which Niall gets all the girls, Liam goes on a journey of self-discovery, Zayn falls in love, Harry wants something more, and Louis tries to figure out once and for all why he, a Muggleborn, was sorted into Slytherin. 

What Kind Of Man by Florence + The Machine 

And with one kissYou inspired a fire of devotion that lasts for twenty yearsWhat kind of man loves like this?

Baby Heaven’s In Your Eyes : A sixth form!AU where Harry is the fucked up bad boy with too many problems, Louis is the perfect rich boy with too much money and their schools are right across from each other. They meet at a party and that’s the last (and maybe the only) thing they need.

I’ve Just Seen a Face by Jim Sturgess

I’ve just seen a face,I can’t forget the time or placeWhere we just met

Nameless Night : For their 18th birthday, every person receives a letter that reads a simple date. That is the date you’ll meet your soulmate. Harry and Louis have different beliefs, live in different worlds and have different dreams, hopes and fears. Yet, they’re not so different from each other when it comes to love. When their paths cross, there is no doubt they belong together. Except for that one, essential difference: they didn’t receive the same date.

If I Could Fly by One Direction

I’ve got scars, even though they can’t always be seenAnd pain gets hard, but now you’re here and I don’t feel a thing

Butterfly Gun : Harry has never been much of a fighter, but—as always—where Louis Tomlinson is concerned, a lot of things stop being true.1940’s AU. Even after six years apart, they can’t forget their shared wartime childhood. 

Jumpin’ Jack Flash by The Rolling Stones

I’m Jumpin’ Jack Flash

Escapade : In the grand scheme of things, finding a date for a wedding should be no problem for Louis Tomlinson. He’s rich. He’s handsome. He’s reasonably well behaved. But when the wedding is for his lifelong best friend (and former boyfriend), and is happening in under a month, finding a date for the ceremony and accompanying festivities becomes more of an adventure than he ever could have planned for. 

18 by One Direction

Long before we both thought the same thingTo be loved and to be in loveAll I could do is say that these arms were made for holding youI wanna love like you made me feel when we were 18

Red Brick Heart : Uni AU. Harry had turned up at the halls of residence expecting fun, new friends, and maybe a life experience or two. What he doesn’t expect is a surprise roommate who’s loud and dramatic and obsessed with tea and is maybe, actually, all he’s ever wanted.

Half A Heart by One Direction

I’m half a man at bestWith half an arrow in my chestI miss everything we doI’m half a heart without you

Never Be : The one where Harry Styles moves to Connecticut from England for nine months as a part of a study abroad program, and he just so happens to move in with Louis Tomlinson and family.

Fallingforyou by The 1975

I don’t wanna be your friend,I wanna kiss your neck

Relief Next To Me : AU. What happens when a baker and a graphic designer meet via a very specific Craigslist post? Fate, friendship, food, and maybe more. 

Closer by Tegan and Sara

Here comes the breath before we get a little bit closerHere comes the rush before we touch, come a little closer

The Night Sky is Changing Overhead : Harry is a tattoo artist, Louis is a drama professor, and they meet during an argument at a café.

Wild Horses by The Rolling Stones

Faith has been broken, tears must be criedLet’s do some living after we dieWild horses couldn’t drag me away 

Soft Hands, Fast Feet, Can’t Lose : American Uni AU. Harry Styles is a frat boy football star from the wealthy Styles Family athletic dynasty. A celebrity among football fans, he knows how to play, he knows how to party, and he knows how to fuck (all of which is well known among his legion of admirers).Louis Tomlinson is a student and an athlete, but his similarities to Harry end there. Intelligent, focused, independent, and completely uninterested in Harry’s charms, Louis is an anomaly in a world ruled by football. A bet about the pair, who might be more similar than they originally thought, brings them together. Shakespeare, ballet, Disney, football, library chats, running, accidental spooning, Daredevil and Domino’s Pizza all blend into one big friendship Frappucino, but who will win in the end? 

No Control by One Direction

PowerlessAnd I don’t care it’s obviousI just can’t get enough of you

Switch Out the Batteries : Two years after meeting in a sex shop, Harry’s just returning to Louis from a month-long tour in the States, and they come up with a wholesome bonding exercise.

Ship to Wreck by Florence + The Machine

Did I drink too much?Am I losing touch?Did I build this ship to wreck?

Young & Beautiful : Louis, to his horror, attends an elitist university in which the name Zayn Malik means something, Niall Horan doesn’t stop talking, there are pianos everywhere, and Harry Styles, only son of a drug-addled, clinically insane ex-rocker, has a perfect smile and empty eyes.

Asleep by The Smiths

Deep in the cell of my heartI really want to goThere is another worldThere is a better world 

Here In The Afterglow : 1970’s AU. In a tiny town in Idaho, Louis’ life is changed forever by the arrival of a curious stranger. 

From the Dining Table by Harry Styles

We haven’t spoke since you went awayComfortable silence is so overratedWhy won’t you ever be the first to break?Even the phone misses your call, by the way

These Inconvenient Fireworks : Future AU in which nobody tries out for X Factor but the boys end up finding one other eventually anyway. Louis is a jaded bastard who owns a cat named Duchess and teaches drama to teenagers, Harry is an idealistic aspiring photographer/part-time footy coach, Zayn teaches English lit and wears leather jackets, Liam saves people from burning buildings, and Niall is Niall.

Skinny Love by Bon Iver

And in the morning I’ll be with youBut it will be a different kindAnd I’ll be holding all the ticketsAnd you’ll be owning all the fines

Pull Me Under : AU. As the first British footballer to come out at the prime of his career, it helps that Louis Tomlinson is in a long-term, committed relationship. Even if that relationship is fake.

He’s a Pirate from the Pirates of the Caribbean Soundtrack

Instrumental 

Resist Everything Except Temptation : The one where Louis is the commodore’s son who is forced to become a part of Harry’s crew when he is captured.

Sunburn by Ed Sheeran

You scarred and left meLike a sunburn 

Empty Skies : For three years, Harry has been running from his past. Now, he is moving to London and pledges to fulfil his only dream – making it big in the music industry. Not everyone has a place, though, and the competition is tough. As is his past catching up on him.Louis is part of the biggest boy band of the world, and getting there had meant a lot of hard work, as well as sacrificing parts of his heart and soul. He’s still happy. Maybe not as happy as he could be, but who is he to complain?

Pine Trees by Jake Bugg

You can sit in the pine treesYou can feel at homeYou can breathe a sigh of silence in the woods

May We Stay Lost On Our Way Home : On March 31st, Harry Styles disappears. Though many speculate, only two people know where to find him: Niall, his former guitarist, and Zayn, who follows where Niall leads.The fact the biggest boy band in the world broke up two weeks earlier might be related to the disappearance. The fact Harry meets a fairy named Louis in the woods is a whole other matter.

Colors by Halsey

Everything was greyHis hair, his smoke, his dreamsAnd now he’s so devoid of colorHe don’t know what it means

Gods & Monsters : The instructions were simple: seduce and destroy Harry Styles. Not once did they discuss the option of Louis actually falling in love. So, naturally, that’s exactly what he did.

[capseycartwright]

for @rocketdocket​ because i promised i’d write vic & rebecca’s first kiss. also bi vic is real ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

victoria and rebecca’s first kiss is entirely unexpected. 

Rebecca has been living with her for close to a month, when it happens.

Victoria didn’t care, how strange anyone might think her letting Rebecca live with her might seem. At the end of the day, she was a pregnant woman with nowhere to go, and even if she hadn’t been carrying her idiot big brother’s child, Victoria wouldn’t have seen her with nowhere to go.

No, it wouldn’t have been right, and Victoria knew firsthand what sort of family the Whites were, she couldn’t quite blame Rebecca for not wanting to have the added stress of family drama on top of everything else going on in her life.

And anyway - it had been nice, to have the company. Victoria was used to a busy house, her and Adam always having a revolving door of Robert, or Andy (and even Aaron, on occasion) living with them, or calling over for tea.

Now Adam was gone, back up at the farm, their marriage in shambles, Andy god knows where, and Aaron and Robert trying their best to piece the broken pieces of their marriage back together.

Victoria hadn’t enjoyed those few weeks she’d lived alone, every creak and noise setting her heart on edge. Having Rebecca around, it had been good, it had been fun. Turns out, Rebecca was a terrible cook, but she made the best cup of tea Victoria had ever had (bar Diane, who was famous for it) and she was a proper laugh, always happy to curl up and watch bad television with Victoria in the evening.

Thats exactly what they were doing, when it happened.

Love Island was on, Victoria ever the fan of reality tv, and they were curled up on her pink couch, both in pyjamas, a blanket tucked around them. Victoria had never really lived with a friend before, she’d gone from living with Diane, to living with her husband, no room for housemates in Victoria Sugden’s grand plan.

It was nice, to have someone to giggle with, the two of them talking about which of the contestants they’d go for.

They had similar taste, apparently.

Victoria didn’t really remember how it happened, if she was honest. One second, she was teasing Rebecca for the ridiculous bun her hair was in, blonde mane hanging off the side of her hair, loose curls falling out of place, and the next, she was kissing her, Rebecca’s lips soft against her own.

Victoria had never kissed a girl before. In her head, maybe, she’s assume it would be very different, but it wasn’t, not really. Rebecca smelled faintly of that expensive perfume she always wore, the fancy bottle that sat on the sink in the bathroom now, and she was missing the familiar scruff of Adam’s beard, but it was nice.

Rebecca pulled back first, eyes wide with shock. “I don’t…. I’m sorry,” she mumbled out, looking panicked.

“Why?” Victoria was genuinely confused, reaching out to cover Rebecca’s hands with her own. She was always cold, Victoria had noted during one of Rebecca’s first evenings staying with her, her hands icy cold to touch.

“I’m not gay,” Rebecca said quietly, her brow furrowed.

“Neither am I,” Victoria shrugged, not entirely bothered, or confused by it all. Two of her best friends were gay, thank you very much, and her brother had left Emmerdale as the biggest womaniser Victoria had ever known, and come back in the closet. There was no age you had to come out by, Victoria knew that much.

It had taken Robert until thirty to know he was bisexual, after all.

Rebecca still looked worried, confusion and panic flittering across her face. Victoria had seen Rebecca sad, and angry, and worried, and all three at once, in the time she’d been living with her.

She was in a tough situation, Victoria knew that much, but the confusion was new.

“I liked it though,” Victoria continued, giving Rebecca’s hands a reassuring squeeze. “We can forget it, if you’d like.”

Rebecca was thoughtful, for a second, her bun still sliding comically off the side of her head, dog patterned pyjamas making her look so much younger than the thirty she was. “I liked it,” she admitted, a pink flush rising in her cheeks. “God, it’s all such a mess though, Vic, this isn’t a good idea.”

“Is anything ever a good idea?” Victoria quipped, unable to shake the pleasant buzz that was flowing through her body now she’d kissed Rebecca, a woman who she’d come to consider a really good friend.

It felt like that first spark of excitement she’d felt with Adam, back when they’d first started seeing each other. It was that promise of something new, and exciting, and Victoria didn’t quite want to let it go.

Not now she knew she was definitely a fan of kissing girls.

Rebecca didn’t say anything, leaning in to press a soft, unsure kiss to Victoria’s lips. Victoria let her take the lead, kissing her back gently until Rebecca shifted on the couch, cupping the back of Victoria’s head, and pulling her close, the material of Rebecca’s pyjamas soft under Victoria’s fingertips as her hands came to rest on Rebecca’s waist, holding tight to the other woman. 

Victoria didn’t know how long they kissed for, genuinely, caught up in the feeling until Rebecca broke their kiss, a rare, genuine smile on her face. “Does it still feel like a bad idea?” Victoria inquired, a teasing tone to her voice.

Rebecca laughed, the sound filling the otherwise quiet room, the television nothing more than background noise now. “It feels like one of the best ideas I’ve had since I got here.”