#hello beautiful VHS covers

[minniesmelody]

Hi yes hello may I request some fluffy Gareth please.I feel like Gareth cuddles

Breakfast club

𝗣𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴: Gareth Emerson x GN!Reader

𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆: late Saturday nights are usually filled with a movie rented from family video and cuddles.

𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀: nothing but plain fluff and sorta rushed writing so it’s a bit short and might have a few errors.

𝗣𝗢𝗩: first person- Y/n

“What would I do for a million bucks? I guess I’d do as little as I had to”

“That’s boring.”

“Well how was I supposed to answer?”

“The idea is to, like, search your mind for the absolute limit. Like, would you drive to school naked?”

Soft snores are heard from my chest. Gareth, had passed out asleep about 40 or so minutes into the movie, him being the one to pick out this movie too.

He was going in between this movie which is called ‘the breakfast club’ and ‘nightmare on Elm street’ which we had watched nightmare on Elm street and rented it out about 4 times now. So I talked him into changing it up for once and picking something that came out last year.

Thankfully his birthday is coming up soon so I have already bought him a VHS of his own of nightmare on Elm street so he no longer has to spend money on renting it out each time he feels like watching it.

Which brings us here, watching something else for a change and he is passed out on top of me with a blanket covering the both of us as sat in his living room on the couch.

But I wouldn’t do a thing to change it.

His lips are slightly parted and eye lids closed with his eye lashes directed downwards, touching the top of his cheek.

He never believes me whenever I tell him now pretty he looks, if it’s sleeping or being focused on something or something else, he never tends to believe me with it.

But here he is, looking beautiful as ever.

Saturdays are definitely the best days, cause they usually end with him in my arms, what gets better than that?

♡︎♡︎♡︎

𝗔/𝗻: hi! Thank you for your request! I hope this wasn’t too bad, I wrote this in a short time period cause you’re girl has been busy asf. So it was just something simple and quick I placed together ♥︎

[asrealasadonut]

This must be the place

Gif by @karamelcoveredolicity the real mvp of this fandom especially the Sebastian kydd stans.

Warnings: age gap relationship, brief drug use, kissing, (idk how to write physical intimacy can you tell) swearing, grammar and spelling mistakes

Author’s note: Fuck it imma just post this not fully realized Sebastian/oc fic because I refuse to work on it anymore lol

****************************************************************************

Summary: Rosie West experienced her first real heartbreak when she was 14. He was the most beautiful boy she'd ever seen. His name was Sebastain Kydd.

It was 1985. Rosie West was the shy younger sister of Top athlete and straight A student, Thomas West. In contrast to her brother, she didn't have many friends. She just went to school and went home.

Her older brother, Thomas walks her home everyday. People at her strict catholic school never paid attention to her, especially boys. It's not that she wanted a boyfriend at that age but, if you paid attention, everyone else had one.

She usually went to her school’s library to avoid any unwanted attention. In the corner of her eye she would see girls and their boyfriends of the week sneak behind bookshelves. They just couldn’t keep their hands off of eachother. She looked away and rolled her brown eyes, holding her book tighter. It was like Rosie couldn't escape it. But deep down, she felt that she was missing out.

One day after school she walked through her favorite place, the video store. She spent most weekends here, renting every movie from the 50s over again until the employees were sick of her hogging the only copy of East of Eden.

She was minding her business when she laid her eyes on a very tall boy that she'd never seen before. He walked in. Blue Jeans. White shirt. Golden blonde hair pushed back. He looked just like James Dean with his pouty lips and his big shiny blue eyes. She couldn’t believe how beautiful he was.

Before she knew it she was following the tall boy. She tried to casually walk down the same aisles he was. When he went to the horror section, so did she.

The boy eventually caught on to the younger girl close behind him and decided to speak to her.

“Hi.”

Her eyes went wide. She didn’t think he could actually see her. She thought she was being subtle and mysterious.

“Hello.” She squeaked back.

All she could do was stare at him.

She fumbled with the vhs in her hands turning the cover over to the front. The blonde boy took notice.

“Rebel without a cause”

“Huh?”

“The movie.”

He points at the tape.

She looks at her hands.

“Oh right!”

She nervously laughed

“I like stuff from the 50s.”

He nods.

“That’s cool.”

He runs a hand through his hair.

His casual gaze was setting her on fire. She had to leave the store and go home and scream in her pillow about this boy giving her attention.

“Gotta go… pay for this.”

He nods, still holding her gaze. The 14 year old girl was stuck frozen in place.

“Okay, bye.”

She quickly snapped out of the trance that big had her in and walked towards the cashier.

She quickly paid the renting fee for the movie and walked out of the store.

The cool air hit her face and eased her racing mind. Who was that guy?? Boys like that don’t just appear out of thin air! It felt unreal like he was a gift from the angels above. Taking pity on a poor teenage girl by creating the boy of her dreams.

A few days passed and it was Friday. The day that mom let Thomas bring all his annoyingly loud jock friends over to the house. Even with her door closed she could hear everything! Thomas could only bring his friends around after school if Rosie stayed up in her room. It was the only way their mother would allow it. This didn't stop the curious 14 year old from spying on whatever they were doing in the living room. Older boys scared her. They were louder and taller and somehow more annoying than the ones at her school.

She peeked out to the living room where the boys were. She overheard her brother talk to the blond boy she saw at the video store!

They were talking and laughing. Thomas rummaging through the kitchen for snacks.

“Hey Tom. Where's your bathroom?” The boy ran his hand through his blonde locks. He sighed.

“Around the corner Down the hall.”

“Thanks.”

He looked tired.

He took his leather jacket off and laid it on the couch.

“God he’s so perfect!” She thought to herself. Her breath hitched in her throat.

He made his way towards the door frame she was standing near. Peeking at him. He squinted slightly. He slowly realized he’s seen her before.

“Oh hey.”

She looked up at him, deciding to be silent. Rosie ddint know what to do with her hands or body. The cute boy from the video store was in her house looking at her.

“Rosie!” She heard her brother say.

She snuck back behind her hiding place.

“Alright I'm going!” she hollers back.

She flashes the blond boy an awkward smile before she dragged herself to her room.

Rosie's bed room was only one door down from the bathroom. She left it open just a crack so she could hear if Thmas wanted something or if her mother came home early.

She was sitting on the floor listening to her michael jackson cassette. She bopped her head to the song when she looked up and saw the blond boy poking his head through her door. He lifted his hand to wave at her.

She quickly slid her headphones off her scalp.

“Hi, you must be Rosie.”

Her heart was pounding.

“Yeah, hi.”

“I think we met before? At the video store right?”

She managed to nod her head.

“He’s just a boy Rosie, chill out.”

She thought to herself. Yeah. A boy who cared to recognize her!

“Shouldn't you be with my brother?”

He shakes his head and leans up against her door frame.

“I was on my way out actually. Just wanted to say hi. I'm Sebastain by the way.”

He told her that Thomas was one of the first people to befriend him at their school. Thomas was so friendly and easy to talk to. It was something Rosie envied. A friend of her brothers actually caring enough to talk to her?? Surreal.

He came around the house more and more. Instead of hanging with Thomas, he’d hang on the doorframe to Rosie’s room and chat about whatever.

Sebastian was different from any other boy she had ever met. He had a genuine gentleness. It was in his big blue eyes. Most of Thomas's friends ignored her, but not Sebastian. He always asked how she was doing, trying to make her comfortable.

Just simple small talk. Nodding like he was interested in the things she had to say. It was like he could tell how lonely she was. Being so shy, it was hard for Rosie to be the one to start conversations, but it felt so easy with the tall boy.

One afternoon after school, she entered the diner alone. Usually her brother would meet her there and they’d walk home together. But when he got too busy with extracurriculars, she had go by herself. Her mother gave her a house key and told her not to talk to strangers.

This time she pleased to see sebastain alone, face pensive. A white coffee mug steaming in front of him. Too hot to drink.

She slipped into his booth.

He looks up with a slow smile forming on his face.

“Good to see you Rosie.”

They talked until it got dark. They made it a habitual thing. They’d share a basket of fries and he would spill his soul to her.

He drove her home. He played her songs that he thought she'd like. They’d go to the video store and give each other movie recommendations. They became close.

That summer, Sebastian told her that his dad got him a replica of James Dean’s race car, Little Bastard. He said they were gonna fix it up together. He was so excited to start working on it. She liked seeing him smile. The way his lip would curl mischievously made her heartbeat thump so loud she could hear it to her ears.

Rosie would ride her bike, passing through his rich neighborhood every day just to catch a glimpse of the beautiful boy. Sometimes she'd catch Sebastain working on his car. He’d wave and smile warmly at the girl. As time passed, she noticed that his dad wasn't around helping him with the car. They were supposed to work on it together.

She stopped in front of the driveway to talk to Sebastian.

“Isn't your dad supposed to help you?”

He shook his head.

“Nah, he had some stuff to do”

He responded. Clearly annoyed.

She bit her lip. She hated seeing him upset.

“If I knew how to fix a car, I’d help you.”

The corner of his lip curled.

“Thanks, Rosie. I know you would.”

She lightly kicked her foot against the pavement. Her eyes were downcast, watching the ground scuff her brand new white shoes.

“You could help me wash it when I'm done.”

She looks up and smiles shyly.

“Okay.”

It was the last weekend before senior year began, so Thomas decided to throw a party at his house.

“Keep your door locked ok? I don't want anyone bothering you.”

He told Rosie.

She stayed in her room catching up on some required reading, the loud music was thumping. It was way too distracting, so she put on her headphones and tried to down out Thomas’ music.

She heard a knock on her door. At first she assumed that it was the booming bass of the music. But she heard the knocking again a little louder. She assumed it was Tommy so she unlocked the door and poked her head through the crack.

It was Sebastain. Her face lit up.

“Hi!”

Her voice was relaxed but excited.

“Can’t sleep?”

She shook her head.

She invited him in. They talked for a while. She’s wrapped up in her comforter and he sat on the ground next to her bed.

“You’re so much easier to talk to than anyone else.”

“Really?”

“Yeah”

They were sitting across from each other. So close now. His head tilted and his bottom lip poked out.

His face was so close to hers now that she could count every eyelash on Sebastian’s face. She really wanted to kiss him but she never kissed anyone before. What if she did it wrong and he wouldn’t like her anymore. Her mind was racing almost as fast as her heart beat.

He cupped her cheek.

“Can I kiss you?”

She tried to breathe. Her heart stopped.

This moment felt like a dream. If she thought too hard about it, he could disappear and she’d wake up.

She nodded desperately.

His lips met hers. His mouth was so soft and warm against hers.

It was like nothing her mind could possibly dream up. She practiced on her teddy bear and watched 50s romance films but this was real. So very real.

He broke away from her face resting his forehead on hers.

“I love you, Rosie.”

Before she could process what he just said, There was a knock on her door. Rosie’s body froze.

“Rosie? You alright?”

It was Thomas calling from outside her door.

“Yeah!”

She hollers back.

“Can I come in? Unlock the door.”

She goes wide eyed.

The tall boy cringes and looks around the room. He quickly opens the window and starts climbing down.

“You’re leaving?”

She whispers.

He shook his head.

“Talk to your brother.”

The window closed and the boy was out of sight.

Rosie sighed and walked to her bedroom door. She unlocked it. Eyes met her older brothers.

“You ok?”

She nodded.

“The party’s dead. Can you help me clean it up before mom gets back?”

She sighs.

“Sure.”

He looks past her room suspiciously.

“Hang back for a bit. I’m still tryna get everyone out.”

She smiles innocently.

“Ok. I’ll come down later.”

Thankfully Thomas was oblivious and made his way down the hall.

She closes the door. Resting behind it, sighing.

She looks out the window to see the boy had left.

The first week of freshman year began for Rosie West and she was still stuck on that kiss. Her first kiss with an older boy. She couldn’t focus on her classes because she couldn’t stop thinking about Sebastian.

One day Sebastain’s Red Porsche pulls up next to her as she's on her way home.

“Hey.”

He greets.

“Hey”

She replied deflated.

“Can I talk to you?”

The boy's eyes were sincere.

Rosie couldn't say no to him.

She tried to sound less desperate than she felt.

“Sure.”

She got into the passenger’s seat.

They sat in silence for what felt like forever.

The older boy turned to her. Not knowing what to say.

“I felt lonely for a long time before I moved here.”

She nods slowly.

“And then I met you and everything started to make sense.”

He tenderly grabbed her hand.

“I meant what I said at the party.”

The back of his fingers brush her cheek.

“Sebastian, I-“

“You don’t have to say it if you're not ready.”

He holds her hand and interrwines his finger with hers.

“We can take it slow.”

They start dating. In secret of course. Rosie was terrified to know if her older brother knew. It was good that they went to different schools so it would be less likely for Thomas to find out about them. Besides that, they tried to be discreet as possible. It worked for the most part.

Most of their time together consisted of Sebastian sneaking into her room when he knew Tomas wouldn’t be home. He had to park his car really far down the opposite end of the street and walk to her place.

His blond head poked outside Rosie’s window. She smiles and opens it.

“Hey, you wanna go for a ride?”

Rosie eagerly nodded. She slipped her shoes on and put on her jacket. The two of them slipped out from the window then made their way to Sebastian’s car.

They rode around for a bit then made their way to the edge of town to a small park with a lake. The boy came often to clear his head or get away from his parents.

Across from a shady tree there they sat in the empty parking lot.

“Oh, Tommy’ll lose him mind if he knew I was out with you this late.”

“Let him.”

She laughed at how loose Sebastian’s attitude could be. He was truly a rebel.

“God, you’ve got the cutest laugh.”

Rosie smiled shyly. Her face warmed up with embarrassment.

Sebastian pulled out a joint. Rosie had never seen one before. She did a double take. She’s seen girls from school smoke cigarettes behind the dumpster at lunch but never anything worst than that.

“You don’t mind do you?”

He asked politely.

She brushed off her reluctance.

“No go head.”

She smiled shyly.

“Can I have some?”

“You sure?”

“If you like it, I wanna try.”

“Rosie you don’t have to.”

“Just a little?”

He shrugged and passed it to her.

She tried to smoke it like the girls at school. Enhaling deeply but exhaling toofast. Rosie started coughing. She didn’t like it too much.

“You’re supposed to breathe out a lot slower. You wanna try again?”

She tired is again with Sebastian’s new advice.

It was a little better the second time. It didn’t feel so different. She thought drugs worked instantly so she just sat there silently waiting for her mind to alter. She handed the joint back to the tall boy.

She pouted. Her ears picked up on the song playing on the radio. She couldn’t recognize it but it was slow and sad. It made her chest ache. She felt it through the radio and into her soul.

Sebastian took notice of her changed demeanor.

“You doin’ ok?”

She looks up at him. Her brown eyes are big and glossy. She felt like she couldn’t breath. His face looked so angelic. The sunset was going down making his face less visible. She wanted the sun to come back so she could see Seb look at her again.

“You're so pretty.”

She could feel the words in her throat getting thick. Before she knew it, tears were flowing down her cheeks.

“Why are you with me?”

Sebastian's eyes go wide with concern

“God sometimes I just look at you and I can’t believe you’re real and…you like me.”

She looked down.

“Did West say something?”

She sniffed and she wipes her eyes on her hoodie sleeve.

She shakes her head like a child.

“No.”

The boy’s eyes were shiny with concern

“I’m sorry! I’m so fucking stupid!”

The blonde shakes his head.

“Oh no Rosie. You’re not stupid.”

He takes her face in his hands and looks deep into her eyes.

Sebastian goes quiet. Thinking of what to say next. He sighs.

“I am crazy about you, Rosie. You know that right? I think you're the coolest. No one gets me like you do. And I love just hanging out with you. I don’t care where we go or what we do. We could just sit in my car all day and I’d be the happiest boy in the world.”

He wipes her cheeks with his thumbs.

“You’re my girl.”

He whispered it like a prayer.

She sniffs. Her brown eyes sparkled with wonder at the beautiful boy.

“Really?”

Sebastian nods. His mouth curled into a sweet smile that took Rosie’s breath away.

He pulled away for a second so she could compose herself.

He puts his hand on her shoulder. He rubbed soothing circles with his thumb.

She wiped her nose and she smiled sadly.

He tilted his head towards her. His eyes never left her.

“Can you remind me? That you still like me.”

“Always.”

She looked down and messed with the ribbed edge of her hoodie sleeve.

“Sorry.”

He chuckles.

“Don’t be.”

He smiled at her and had this coy look in his eye. He put the car in drive and took off.

“Where are we going?”

“You’ll see.”

Rosie watched the sky turn a deep blue as Sebastian drove them into the city. She had never been to New York until now.

He promised he’d take her.

Seeing all those bright lights up close felt magical.

One day Thomas finds out. He gets Sebastain alone at school.

“Stay away from my little sister, man.”

His warm brown eyes turned cold, focused and hard. He was deadly serious.

Just then it really hit him. Sebastian felt like he did at his last school. Wrong. Just wrong.

The next two weeks, they try to avoid each other. No diner. No secret car rides. Rosie became more anxious, she couldn't focus on her classes.

She missed Sebastain terribly so she bravely decided to call his house. She didn't know who would answer, since his parents were always far too busy to be at home with their child. He never answered, but instead the housekeeper. She apologized and told her he wasn't home. That's when she grew worried. He wasn't at the diner after school like normal either.

Sebastian showed up at her house lightly knocking at her window that night.

She threw her bedside lamp on and she let him up.

He grabbed her face a little more forceful than normal.

His lips met hers into a feverish kiss. It took Rosies breath away. Sebastian didnt kiss her like that. He was usually gentle.

“I missed you so much.”

He still held her face and pulled her to her bed.

Her hands never let go of his. Rosie loves his hands. They were so much bigger than hers.

She took one of them and started kissing his palm. She turned his hands over and her eyes grew wide.

His knuckles were all red and scabbed over.

She looked up at the tall boy.

“what happened?”

He pulled his hands from her tender grip and ran one through his hair. The other rubbed his knee.

“I got expelled today.”

Rosie’s face fell.

“why?”

“I started a fight. This guy said something really stupid and then I just lost it and kept beating him til he bled.” I got so mad you know? Just….at everything. I haven't seen my mom in months. Im having a real hard time Rosie.”

He broke down in her arms. She rubbed his back as he tried to keep his weeping at a quiet volume as to not wake up Thomas on the other room. She just let him weep into her stomach.

All she could do was listen to the boy. He had so much going on in his head. Everyone had these bad opinions of him and that really hurt Rosie’s already fragile heart. He was the sweetest boy she’d ever known. No one understood him the way she did.

“

The boy looked up at her. His eyes red and puffy.

“Go to bed with me?”

He nods and slowly stands to his feet. He waited for her to get situated under the covers. He kicked his sneakers off.

“I’ll be right back.” She tells him.

She comes back with a glass of water. She hands it to the sad boy.

“Here.”

He gratefully took it from her and downed the whole thing.

“Thank you.”

He looks up at her.

She strokes his soft blond hair.

“Of course.”

She smiles back.

They climb into her tiny twin bed. Face to face on her pillow. The bedside lamp cast the room in a soft glow. It made his face look golden.

“You’re the only thing I care about.”

He whispered, eyelids dropping.

She closed her eyes and let her exhaustion overtake her body. They fall asleep holding eachother. Cozy and warm.

A soft voice called her name and woke her up the next morning. It was Sebastian leaning over her. He smiled tiredly.

“I gotta go baby.”

She let out a groan and fopped to the other side of the bed and met his eyes. She grabbed his hands lazily. They were soft and warm.

“Don’t go. Lay here with me all day.”

“I really want to.”

He made his way to her window. He slipped out into the blue sky. He pokes his head out to say one thing.

“I’ll call you later.”

*******************************

That’s all folks sorry!!

[nevermindthewanderer]

top five movies?

Thanks for the ask! I got this message right before I fell asleep last night so sorry for just now answering. In working through this list, it became pretty clear what I enjoy most about movies.

Knives Out (2019) Beautiful sets, fun script with biting social commentary, solid twisty mystery, excellent cast that's clearly having an absolute blast, and a great soundtrack? Yeah this is a winner. Really the only thing I would change is Marta's tell. I hated the vomit gag.

Pride and Prejudice (2005) Is the BBC 1995 miniseries more book accurate? Yes. But Joe Wright nails the aesthetic of the era even if he's not quite as "accurate." Gorgeous cinematography, another excellent ensemble cast, a script that distills the story to its best elements, and captivating music? You had me at hello.

The Lord of the Rings (2001-2003) I'm counting them as one and I'm referring to the extended editions. The ultimate medieval fantasy genre epic that needs no introduction. The books are great too, but idk for my enjoyment value you can't beat the movies. I really can't think of how to make them better. Yes, there's always additional lore to add and characters that get cut for time and clarity (sorry Tolkien, you know you ramble) but the choices that were made are excellent.

The Princess Bride (1987) I can't tell you how many times I watched this movie growing up because my mom loves it. This film didn't do great in theaters but exploded on VHS. I can practically quote the entire thing. Again, the snarky dialogue is 2/3 the fun. Another great cast. I love turning genre tropes on their head and having fun. More good music and a fun blend of good production choices mixed with intentionally campy elements. The comedy with a heart of gold that sneaks up on you.

Shrek 2 (2004) An oddball choice. Honestly I prefer this one to the original. Great animation for the era (honestly watch it again, it's almost 20 years old and it still looks good. RIP me noticing that it's that old), great original story, the jokes are sharp, the voice acting is fun, and every song is a banger. Seriously, the Holding Out For A Hero cover is unironically fantastic.

You come from my side blog, so you might be surprised by no Top Gun or Top Gun: Maverick. Honestly, TG:M is up there on the list and would make my top 10 because it's a fun watch. OG Top Gun is so very 80s and was my dad's favorite movie in the 90s so I saw it a lot. It gets points for soundtrack, cast, and cinematography but lacked in story and gets a heavy cringe ding imo. Honestly he might have watched Hot Shots just as much so sometimes I forget what was in TG and what was actually HS lol.

[magnoliabutters]

RISKY BUSINESS • STORIES FOR DWEEBS •

pairing: robin buckley x (female, 18+) reader

summary: oh look, a poor new lesbian needs your help. 

warnings: 18+ content, mdni;  fluffiest of fluffs, experienced reader, inexperienced robin, heavy flirting, light petting, pet names, etc. 

word count: ~2.5k

support your writer: if you enjoy, please give a reblog so others can enjoy too! 🤘🏼

note: time for a new series! we're trying something new today. our reader will be the experienced les in today’s post. we will also be primarily leaning into the fluffs for now. as always, i'm open to feedback - especially when i'm trying something new! lmk what you think! <3

---- x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x ----

“What am I supposed to do?” the girl says, dragging her hands down her face. Her overexaggerated sigh draws your eyes to her. You spot her past the shelved horror movies you were looking through. Behind you, your friends comically debate about what type of movie to watch tonight. To your surprise, Steve Harrington stands from behind the front counter of Hawkin’s local Family Video. He straightens his worker’s vest. “You could start by saying hello,” he suggests, as he begins to stack a pile of VHS’s. You had always imagined Steve to be quite the douche back in high school, but here he is supportively and genuinely listening to his coworker’s problems.

With another loud sigh, your glance is returned to the girl. She is absolutely beautiful, but not in the way that someone like Steve would quickly notice. Her hair is cut right above her shoulders.  Freckles carefully placed throughout her cheeks. As you watch her peer through her fingers, you note her deep, turquoise eyes. Her light brown hair complementing those long, full eyelashes of hers. The girl rolls her head back in response to him. You find it amusing that these two are having such a vulnerable conversation without a care in the world for who could be listening. They weren’t even trying to whisper.

“How do you even do that? You just walk up to someone and say, ‘Hi, hello. I love you. Okay, bye,’” she says with a whine. Steve places his hands upon the counter. His face is more than unamused. “Maybe don't start with ‘I love you,’' he groans. “Well, see! That’s a perfect example of why I shouldn’t be allowed to talk to people,” she mutters miserably. This girl seems so puzzled, unsure of how to talk to someone. It boggles your mind that someone as gorgeous as her would have any difficulties striking up a conversation. You imagine that everyone would be lined up just to get the chance to talk to her - let alone that she would have to put in any effort into the interaction.

While keeping your ears open, you follow your friend’s lead to the Romantic Comedies section of the store. The girl shrugs her shoulders. A slouch appears within her seat. You have never noticed her before. Why is that? Her body language gives off an awkward, sulking personality. Yet, hearing her hoarse voice and how she speaks gives you the sense of someone who doesn’t put up with anyone’s shit or play games. “What are you looking at?” your friend, Taylor, asks innocently. You quickly drop your eyes to the shelf that you were pretending to look at; always so quick on your feet. “I’m just trying to choose between Risky Business and Fast Times,” you turn towards her. “Oh man, Tom Cruise or Sean Penn?” she genuinely asks, grabbing the films from the shelf. You flip the Risky Business tape within her hand. Pointing towards its back cover, you whisper, “I prefer Rebecca.” Taylor laughs as she places both films back onto the shelf. “Yeah, I know,” she says, tapping on your shoulder as she walks behind you. She pulls herself closer to your ear and whispers, “Just like I know you’re watching that girl up front.” Taylor giggles as she walks down the other side of the aisle. You roll your eyes in response and return to your shelf.

“Robin, you’re being a bit dramatic,” Steve laughs. He nods his head. He looks as though he is desperately trying to get any type of work done. You detect a slight annoyance in his voice as he continues to repeat the same piece of advice to her. The girl scoffs, greatly offended. “I am not! With one word, I could just ruin everything like that,” she says with a snap. Behind you, Taylor giggles alongside Liz, your other friend. Your attention is pulled from the workers again. “You should totally go ask for his number,” Liz eggs her on. “He hasn’t really been with anyone since that Wheeler girl.” You snort, “Oh yeah and that’s totally a good sign.” Liz rolls her eyes as Taylor playfully smacks your arm. Her affect becomes serious as she meets your eyes. “Do you think I should?” Taylor asks excitedly. With a quick movement, you grab Sixteen Candles from the shelf and place it in her arms gently. “Lead the way,” you say with a slight gesture of your arm. She smiles, releasing a slow breath from her lips.

As you make your way to the front counter, you hear the girl, Robin, groaning again. Her unsure, concerned whines leave you with a fluttering beat to your heart. “I just want to be able to talk with her - tell her how I feel,” she begins to say as she turns her eyes towards your group. Taylor quickly shoots a look your way, confirming that you had heard what she heard. You shine a quick side smile and turn back to Robin. “Oh! Hey guys, Sixteen Candles?” she says, reaching over to retrieve the movie from Taylor’s hands. Taylor continues to hold on tightly to the movie, moving her eyes to Steve just a few steps away. Robin focuses on her grasp. Her eyebrows push together as she attempts to understand why your friend wasn’t giving her the tape. “Can he help me rent this out?” Taylor whispers, nodding to Steve. He is too focused on his own work tasks to look your friend’s way. Robin rolls her eyes and harshly smacks Steve in the shoulder. “Ah, what the hell?” he says, slowly looking up. “Oh! Hey ladies. Sixteen Candles, huh?” he asks with a smile as he leans over the counter towards them. The two girls giggle as they speak with Harrington.

Robin laughs to herself and walks to the other side of the front counter. You follow her slowly, hoping to come off as casual as possible. Robin reaches down to grab hold of the latest TV Guide magazine. She carelessly flips through the pages as she traces circles on some of their listings. You softly lean onto your elbows beside her. The cool surface comforts you. Your eyes watch her as though she is a frightened deer. Any sudden movements would leave her fleeing. “Hey, do you ever get sick of watching him talk up all your customers?” you ask softly. You maintain your gaze on your friends and Steve. Given the conversation you overheard, eye contact may be too much for her at first. Robin turns towards you, placing her pen down. You see a slight smile in your peripheral vision. Over her shoulder, she follows your eye line to the group on the other end of the counter. “Yeah, it can get annoying,” she says with a nervous laugh. You finally turn towards her. Your eyes glazing over her cute face and down to her subtle tie. “I don’t see what they see in him. Do you?” you ask as your eyes lift to hers. Her face fills with curiosity and happiness from your initiation. “No, not in the way they’re looking at him,” she responds with a light-hearted tone. She struggles to decide whether to keep her eyes on you or Steve.

With a smile, you say, “I like you. I’m y/n.” You pull your hand up slightly to shake hers. “I’m Robin,” she says with a chuckle. Her hand meets yours. You try your best to ignore the sparks that are sent out throughout your body. Attempting to maintain your cool, you trace your thumb lightly against the back of her hand. “So when’d you start working here, Robin? I don’t think I’ve seen you before,” you ask, slowly releasing her hand. Robin awkwardly lands her weight back onto her elbow. “The end of the summer,” she smiles to herself. “I-I’ve never seen you here either. What’s your, uh, your genre?” She nods towards the several categorized aisles. You swing around to see all the options. “Well, I usually like to spend my time watching horror flicks but my friends have been trying to get me into some rom-coms,” you casually reply. “Chick-flicks, right?” she says with a snort. Her confidence immediately drops, but you refuse to show her that you noticed. “Yeah, it’s pretty lame but hey, the things we do for our friends,” you sigh, turning back towards her. Her smile gradually returns, confidence slowly building within her.

That beautiful smile leaves you with an ache to your heart. It was soft, sweet, and above all genuine. As you return your gaze towards her, you observe a beaded bracelet on Robin’s wrist. You reach up and gently place your hands to the sides of her forearm. “Woah, this is awesome! Did you make this?” you ask, strategically placing space between the bracelet’s elasticity and the inside of her wrist. Her breath quickens to your touch. She lightly bites her lip and turns towards you with a hesitant grin. “Uh, yeah! I have a matching one with my friend,” she responds. “Scoops,” you read the letters aloud. You shoot her a confused, but amused look. She laughs hesitantly, “I used to work at the Scoops Ahoy at the mall.” You slowly and softly tap your pointer finger against her skin. “Damn, really? I used to go there all the time. I’m sure I would’ve remembered you,” you smoothly reply. Your eyes landing on hers as you bounce your eyelashes off one another.

Robin scoffs timidly. Her mouth slightly opens, but words are unable to come out. You naturally fill the space so that she remains comfortable. “I can’t imagine you wearing that Scoops Ahoy uniform. Do you still have it?” you ask, leaning closer to her. Your eyes fall upon where your hands meet. Her breathing more flustered as you close the distance between you both. Your finger lightly flicks against the elastic band. Robin releases a soft, shaky sigh. “I do, actually,” she says with a hint of laughter to her voice. Your eyes lift towards hers - deep blue and full of curiosity and thrill. With a slight bite to your lip, you watch Robin’s cheeks grow from pink to red. “I bet you look good in that uniform,” you whisper, shifting your weight so that you may be face to face with her. As your teeth make more of a dent onto your bottom lip, your eyes watch her from behind strands of your hair. You note any slight movements in her body, preparing yourself if she gives you any indications that she is not interested. Robin sucks in a quick breath. Her hands are sweaty but gentle within yours. She flashes you a grin that leaves tingles down your spine.

With a quick and steady flow, you raise your body from the counter. You trace your finger down her wrist and off her palm. Robin’s face shifts into worry as you pull your touch from her. While maintaining eye contact, you carefully retrieve her pen as it lies on the magazine. You turn to your right to see a few business cards lined up against the computer. “Oo! Symanski, Real Estate,” you excitedly mutter under your breath. She laughs at your demeanor. Flipping it over, you write your phone number on the card. Robin’s eyes are fixed to every single number you scribble out. Her amazed stare lifts to you as you slide the card over to her. Just as she reaches for the card, you place a gentle finger underneath her chin. You raise her eyes to yours. “Robin, darling. I’m going to give you some advice,” you say, nonchalantly. “Don’t ask a man how to flirt with a woman. It’s a bit different for us.”

Robin begins to stutter, trying her best to comprehend what you have just said to her. Her face completely drains of blood. You find it entertaining given how loudly they were discussing flirting with women earlier. “We need to be a bit more sneaky - especially if we aren’t out yet. Little flirts here and there,” you continue. Your finger softly travels down to where her jawline and neck meet. Your eyes fixed upon her skin. “Some that can be interpreted as just being nice, while others leave the girls … questioning,” you trail off. You give her a quick smile as her mouth hangs open. You attempt to pull away, but she gently grabs hold of your hand. “But, how do I know if they like girls, o-or me?” she asks with concern. Her eyebrows raise as vulnerability seeps throughout her body. Her confidence depletes in front of you. “She’ll let you know,” you say with a squeeze to her hand. “You are a better flirt than you’re giving yourself credit for. Whoever this girl is, the one that’s got your eye, she’s lucky just to even have your attention.” Robin’s face returns to color. She smiles as you softly place your other hand over hers. You return your eyes towards her as you gradually pull away.

Suddenly, Robin’s eyebrows furrow. Her beautiful smile fades away. Worry tightens your chest. “Wait, was this real?” she asks hesitantly. Her finger swaying between you two. Her eyes wide and vulnerable. It is clear she is terrified of your answer. You sigh in relief as you lay your eyes upon her. “You have my number, don’t you?” you softly chuckle, nodding towards the card. “Call me if you need any more lessons, darling. I’ll be waiting.” She lets out a shaky laugh in response as she pins her chin to her shoulder. You smirk at the sight of her genuinity. It’s not often you can look at someone and know exactly how they are feeling. Robin is absolutely drop dead gorgeous. Her mannerisms leave you with a sense of pure happiness. However, she has much to learn before you could ever let yourself think of her as more than just a baby gay. That’s where you can find yourself hurt, and you can’t go through that again.

The sounds of laughter pull your focus away from Robin’s ocean-blue eyes. Taylor holds the VHS back in her hands as she finishes her conversation with Steve. A slight giggle erupting from both of your friends’ lips. “I hope you girls enjoy the movie,” Steve says, walking around the corner. He places a confident hand upon Taylor’s lower back as he guides them towards the front. “And Taylor, you’ll give me a call?” he asks as he releases his touch and waves the girls out. Taylor bites her lip and nods, as she pushes open the door. You slowly turn back to Robin. You note Steve glances towards you both as he returns back to the counter. With a playful tone, you softly say, “See you next time, Robin.” You shoot her an electric smile as you spin around to return to your friends. You feel her gaze upon your back. As you walk out the door, you hear a distinct, “Holy shit!” and “Who was that?” behind you. You find comfort in providing the duo with their next discussion topic.

---- x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x o x ----

note: i wish i could be as confident as the reader, god damn! i look forward to your thoughts :3 

[thegothicviking]

As re-entering a link from herzeleid.com never seem to work (??) I usually copy and paste the actual text. Remember a transcription of Flake chatting with fans that I posted from early 00'? Before this Paul had a similar if not the same chat. I have already too long post in tumblr now so it will be broken down in 2 parts!

PAUL CHAT WITH FANS part I

Transcribed by Jeremy Williams

Taken from Rammstein.com chat

October 26 , 2005

_____________________________

Mod: Hello to you all. Thanks for coming out. Paul will be here in just a few minutes. And then we're going to get started.

Paul: Let's go!

niti: +++

Mod: Sorry, there was a technical problem. But the chat will start soon.

niti: +++

**atomrt: how do you chose the sounds for each song because all of them fit perfectly?**

Paul: Thanks a lot! Sometimes that works out well, sometimes not so well.+++

**maria: Your album covers have always sparked a lot of controversy. Which cover is your favourite and why?**

Paul: The cover for Sehnsucht was the most dramatic in my opinion.+++

**Benzramm: What was coming out of the fake penis during the live act "Bück Dich"? **

Paul: That was water with Ouzo to make it milky.+++

**Beurgueur: Good evening, Have you ever thought to write a metal-opera based on rammstein’ story?**

Paul: Hopefully not. We have enough theater elements already.+++

**MafiUndomiel: I was at River Plate Stadium in Argentina, 1999, when you toured with KISS. You did almost surpassed KISS music and show with your impact, and many people was really impressed. I still remember the silence during Du Hast, as Till was singing the refrain. What do you remember of Argentina, of this show? **

Paul: Yeah, that was unbelievable. It's a shame that we can't play in South America this time. Flake was seriously ill.+++

**MafiUndomiel: Did Till write Te Quiero Puta on his own, or had some kind of external help? I know it's not very complicated, nor elaborated in the lyrics, but it's not easy to put two or three sentences together if you don't know the language... believe me! I'm still trying with German!**

Paul: He had some help from his girlfriend and from Flake's friend from Chile.

Paul: But Till can already speak Spanish so well that he only had a few questions about grammar.+++

**monkeyman: What type of gear do you use when recording in the studio?**

Paul: This would take two hours to list. Too much for now. Sorry.+++

**Hugo: Why did you choose almost the same cover for the japanese version of Reise, Reise and Rosenrot? **

Paul: Because we thought it would be a shame to use the cover only for the Japanese edition.+++

**MafiUndomiel: There are many bands that edited DVD and VHS with the footage they got when they recorded their albums, the creative process and all that stuff. Since many R+ fans are really interested in knowing "Rammstein's kitchen", have you considered releasing something of that kind?

** Paul: I filmed some of the footage during Reise, Reise and it will come out sometime on a DVD as bonus material.+++

**blastedop: What happened to Live DVD? It was delayed? **

Paul: Yeah a little bit, but we're going to try to do it this year.+++

**MafiUndomiel: I wanted to know how did you put your setlists together when you go to a country you've never been... you mix old and new material, or you prefer to show your new material above all, and play only the "classics"? **

Paul: We play a mix of both old and new.+++

**Jenna: As you are possibly the most successful band from Germany (singing in German) that you are expected to represent German music and culture to the rest of the world? **

Paul: It was never our plan to play all over the world.

Paul: Sometimes we wonder ourselves how this all happened.+++

**beurgueur: what american film director would you enjoy to make a ckip with **

Paul: Tarantino.+++

**Benzramm: Did you ever get hurt when you were working with fire on the live acts ? **

Paul: Sometimes.+++

**aeon: One Rammstein member said you had a movie project with Werner Herzog. Do you think this project will be carried out and would you like to act in something different from Rammstein videos ? **

Paul: It's been awhile with WErner herzog. Maybe it will work out, there's still a plan to do it.

Paul: +++

**Rammsteinizied: Dear Paul: What is your favorite live performance effect? (like the flamethrowes in Feuer frei or the bow in DRSG) **

Paul: The nose flame throwers that we use in Feuer frei!+++

**MafiUndomiel: Which was your first guitar? Do you still own it? **

Paul: It was a Telecaster copy. A cheap one. I gave away my first guitars at an auction for a good cause. No idea whether it worked out.+++

**Straya: This has been in my mind for a while now, and I must ask. From the sample songs on the official site, it seems Rosenrot might be your 'hardest/loudest' albums, the songs seem 'hard', in a way, like Ich Will, Feuer Frei, and Mein Teil; what do you think of this? **

Paul: I don't think so. There are fewer sequences so the guitars come out better.+++

**Synthema: Do you still feel that being in Rammstein is almost like being in a six-way marriage? Does the band still function as a tight a unit or have things drifted apart? **

Paul: Yeah.

Paul: We're still together. Knock on wood. We've been together for 10 years and now that we've gone through our crisis, we feel better than ever.

Paul: We've got money, success, beautiful women and all the rest.

Paul: Things can only get worse.+++

**Jenna: Do you think your videos help to stop you taking yourselves too seriously? **

Paul: We've always taken ourselves less seriously than many people think. our best friends know this.

Paul: At the moment, we don't feel like making any humouress videos.+++

**whiskeypapa: When writing a song, how many/what kinds of revisions does the song go through before finally making it onto an album? **

Paul: Some songs make it out directly as we conceived them. With other songs, we make 20 versions and they still don't make it.

Paul: +++

**Noora: HI! I'm a fashion and design student from Finland and I was wondering about your stage costumes...How much do you participate in the designing and making of the outfits that you use on your tours? I understand that every album has its own look. Do you first design the outline of the look as a band and hen consult a designer and maker? Thanx and welcome back to Finland! :)**

Paul: Most ideas come directly from the band. For the last outfit, we had the idea to combine Bavarian folkloric outfits with industrial.

Paul: Because Bavarian folklore is not very cool and we like to mix things that you're not supposed to.+++

**Beurgueur: Have you ever thought in what your life would be now if rammstein never was created?**

Paul: No. We don't think that way.+++

**minx: It’s been stated in several interviews that the band has two pyromaniacs in the group, but is there anyone who is not so fond of fire?**

Paul: Everybody in the band has a different specialty.

Paul: Each of us is really equally important.

Paul: It doesn'T matter what each does, it could be better when two are on vacation during preparation and actually help us to make a good video this way.+++

**Badeend: Who thinks of the titles of the cd's? Is it some kind of democraty or is it 1 man that decides?**

Paul: We make the decision as a group but it's not really a democracy. More like a board of directors.+++

**Biz: How have older industrial bands (such as Laibach or KMFDM) influenced you?**

Paul: A lot.

Paul: Also Ministry.+++

**minx: What is the oily black/brown liquid that you are all covered with on stage? Is it a fire retardant liquid?**

Paul: No.

Paul: That's a secret.+++

**minx: Why did you wear a paper bag over your head at the concert in Tallin, last November?**

Paul: I wanted to display an Iraqi prisoner.

Paul: There's a photo of a guy behind barbed wire and he's holding his son but he has a bag on his head.

Paul: That photo really had an impact on me.+++

**aeon: Why do you only do signing sessions in London and Paris? Why not in other big cities f Europe or even Germany? Or is anything planned? **

Paul: Actually we've only planned for Paris. London snuck in at the last minute.

Paul: I don't know any more signing sessions details right now.+++

**Badeend: Did you take gitar lessons or did you teach it on your self?**

Paul: Self-taught.

Paul: +++

**minx: I am going to be at the signing in London on Sunday. Do you enjoy doing those types of promotional events or are they just ‘hard work’?**

Paul: Sometimes it's a lot of fun but other times it can be exhausting.+++

**Synthema: It could be said that the "Rosenrot" photos are quite a departure image-wise from what one would expect from the band. Was this something that was decided by the band for a particular reason, or is this the sort of decision that is out of your hands? Does your management or record label have much control over how you present yourselves, or is that left to you?**

Paul: We don't like to repeat ourselves.

Paul: Usually the band always has the last word on these amtters. But weR'e not always interested in all of the details.+++

**Badeend: What is the new instrument you used in the song Te Quiero Puta?**

Paul: Trumpet.+++

**beurgueur: do you think you'll be on stage again when you'll be 60? (like rolling stones for example...)**

Paul: Hopefully somebody will die first. Then we won'T have to worry about that.+++

**minx: Do you do you all do own make-up for the shows?**

Paul: Yes.+++

**OK-River: Will Rammstein play again "Bück Dich" in a concert, or it is something of the past?**

Paul: I wouldn't say no.+++

**blastedop: Rosenrot is so diferent from Reise Reise. How is this possible if these songs are from Reise Reise recording season?**

Paul: I don'T think so. Listen to the whole album.+++

**Benzramm: Are you a sort of scared when flake is going with his boat in the public ? **

Paul: No.

Paul: But it was always Oli last year.+++

**whiskeypapa: Which of your songs invokes the most emotion from you?**

Paul: Seemann.+++

**MsBehaviour: Greetings from Finland and good evening! My question is, you have been playing together as a band for quite a many years now, and there is a big difference in the sound of Herzeleid and the sound of Reise Reise. Does this "evolution" come naturally to you, or do you make conscious decisions as to where to direct your sound? How do you feel about the change?**

Paul: There are some of us who want to stay the same.

Paul: There's some of us who want to always change.

Paul: These parties fight each other and the result is a new album or a black eye.+++

**MafiUndomiel: Have you heard a cover version of Keine Lust made by a Russian guy called Miguel? What did you think about it?**

Paul: Not yet, unfortunately.+++

**Badeend: Do you have a private jet or do you have to rent a plane?**

Paul: When the record company pays, we fly Business. When we have to pay, it'S Tourist class. Sometimes, when the connections are difficult, we rent a litlle jet.+++

**luna: First "Snow White" now "Rose Red". Do the members of Rammstein have a fondness for fairytales?**

Paul: Who doesn't?+++

**Synthema: Do you still enjoy performing live after all these years, or is it more of a chore now?**

Paul: If we didn't like it, we wouldn't have been around so long.+++

**Benzramm: Is there a double meaning in the songtexts of your songs ? **

Paul: Yeah. But the subtleties and double-meanings get lsot in translation.+++

**Badeend: What is your favorite song or cd?**

Paul: Kill Bill 1.+++

**DRS2G: Is "Hilf Mir" inspired by a Heinrich Hoffmann's tale?!**

Paul: Yes.+++

**Synthema: Have you ever felt that the success of Rammstein has been a negative thing for you in your personal life? That it makes it difficult to decide who to trust and who not to?**

Paul: It is difficult to stay normal despite money and success.

Paul: We fight this on a daily battle but we usually win.+++

**Beurgueur: from a viewer: what guitar do you use for your c tuning, and what guitar does richard use for this?**

Paul: I play a Gibson Les Paul and Richard plays ESP guitars.+++

**Benzramm: Did you really go to the mountains for the videoclip "Ohne Dich"?**

Paul: Yes. The was the funnest video of them all.

Paul: The thin air up there was difficult.

Paul: I'm impressed by mountain climbers who go even higher.

Paul: It was difficult for our crew and us.+++

**MafiUndomiel: how did you and richard decided who was going to be lead and who rythm guitars?**

Paul: Good question.

Paul: We're both stubborn.

Paul: It's a fight every time but we're still doing alright up to now.

Paul: Actually, the winner is supposed to be the one who plays the best solo.+++

**Badeend: Do you still have to take guitar lessons to play better?**

Paul: No.+++

**blastedop: Do you visit fansites? How about a Top 10 Fansites in the official page?**

Paul: From time to time.+++

**Badeend: Why did you pick just that girl for the Texas vocal in Stirb nich vor Mir?**

Paul: It was our producer's idea.+++

**MafiUndomiel: Paul, is there any country that you´d like to visit or going on tour, and you haven´t yet? Why?**

Paul: Yes, we would love to go to Turkey, Mongolia, Iraq. We know we've got lots of fans there.+++

**Jenna: Which current musicians (Not youselves, I'm sorry) do you think are creating the best work at the moment?**

Paul: System of a Down, Muse, Snoop Doggy Dog, Eminem, Slip Knot, etc.+++

**Rammsteinizied: Dear Paul, How do you feel about us fans?**

Paul: It's an honour.+++

**Minx: Do you have a favourite guitar part in a particular song you really enjoy?**

Paul: +++

**DRS2G: Will "Rosenrot" be the 2nd single from your new album?!**

Paul: Yes.+++

**Straya: I'm wondering how this question has not come up yet... but, plenty of people are asking if you guys will tour in America and Canada. I don't mean for this to be one of those annoying questions. But, has anything be talked about?**

Paul: I'm certain that we'll tour North and South America with our next album.+++

**rammsteinuk: I read in a recent interview that there were some arguments within the band during the production of 'Mutter'. Have there been any more strong disagreements like this since?

**Paul: Thankfully not. There's always stress when six stubborn people meet, but nothing serious.+++

**minx: Most influential musician on yourself?**

Paul: Laibach, Ministry, Metallica, Nirvana.+++

**blastedop: Did you like Benzin video? Schneider didnt.**

Paul: I don't think it's that bad.

Paul: We've had three really good videos in a row, so it'S hard to keep the standards so high.

Paul: I'm glad that there's some variation, next time we'll improve.+++

**whiskeypapa: First, Reise Reise saw a "country moment" with Los, and now Rosenrot has Te Quiero Puta. If you could make a fusion of Rammstein and any other world music (for fun), what would it be?**

Paul: Yes, I interested in all combinations of things that don'T fit together.+++

**Biz: Are there any downsides to being famous?**

Paul: We're famous but we can still buy groceries in Berlin without bodyguards.

Paul: We've got nothing to complain about.

Paul: Our band is famous around the world but we still have normal lives, thank God.+++

**minty: Paul are you looking forward to the world cup next year? who will win?**

Paul: Yes. It doesn'T look good for Germany right now.

Paul: I hope that a miracle happens.+++

**aeon: Do you hope your music will still be appreciated in many years from now or it doesn't matter to you ?**

Paul: I think that we're relatively timeless.

Paul: But that'S probably what every band thinks and two years later nobody cares ...+++

**DRS2G: Was it good to be directed by Jonas Akerlund?!**

Paul: Yes, he's just a cool guy.+++

[dramaqueeenamby]

Waves: The Read

A/N: I am a shady bitch, and I regret nothing.  Also, if ya’ll remember, Mercedes is Summer’s publicist/manager. I mentioned that in a few waves, so don’t get confused, friends!

Warnings: None. 

Word Count: 2K

Masterlist

TAGS: @notacamelthatsmywife​ @babe-im-bi​ @liquorlaughslove​ @letsshamelessqueen-m​ @missyperle​ @valkryienymph​ @tashawar​ @mani-lifes​ @missdforever​ @hello-therree​ @toni9​ @queenshikongo3​

"How many solos has my sister had?"

The room grew quiet, all eyes on the speaker. They’d just finished a number, or rather, Finn and Rachel had just finished a number. The rest of the students served more as props than singers. Ad-libs only constituted so much.

Mr. Schue’s smile dimmed. Slightly. "W—what?"

Alexus shrugged, motioning around the room. "Or any of the kids whose names aren’t Flipper or Rachel?"

"It’s Finn."

"I don’t care," she dismissed, eyes still on the instructor. "I’ve been here a whole week, and not once have I seen someone other than Cher and Sonny score solos."

Mr. Schue scoffed, crossing his arms. "Now, hold on a second, I treat all my students fairly. Any student is allowed to audition for a solo—"

"And how many who have auditioned actually received one, other than your prized pupils?"

Mercedes stood up. "Alexus—"

"No." Alexus lifted her hand and looked over at her sister. "This isn’t right, and you’re too kind and understanding to say anything, so I will."

"You’re out of line, Alexus."

She laughed, looking back at him. "Out of line? I’m not one of your little students, and you’re not going to shut me down like you do them. I’m going to say what I want and need to say, and then I’ll leave, but you’re going to catch this read, first."

"And, cut!"

Summer broke from character and offered Matthew a fake smile before turning away and catching Amber’s gaze. They shared an unspoken exchange, one that caused Amber to laugh after Summer rolled her eyes.

Summer didn’t know why she was so weary about accepting this role. Only 10% of it was acting, the rest was her actually reading the problematic cast members, which was all but a handful. But, to fulfill her petty side and get paid?

It was a double win.

Summer noticed Ryan was speaking with Lea, which ignited another eye roll. She was the guest star, not that Barbara Streisand wannabe. Still, Summer counted her blessings, because she could only take Ryan in small doses. He wasn’t as bad as his prized actress, but it was the fact that he allowed her to treat everyone like shit that made her think less of him.

Perhaps she was spoiled in the sense that every other director she’d had the privilege of working for would never tolerate such behavior. She had to accept that Hollywood was a game, and the rules changed constantly.

"Someone was having fun," Mercedes, Summer’s assistant chimed, coming to walk beside her.

Summer feigned innocence. "I have no idea what you’re talking about."

Mercedes smirked. "Yeah, right. You weren’t acting. You were giving them all a piece of your mind."

Summer retained her smile as they reached her trailer, Summer opening the door so Mercedes could enter first. "Are you trying to insinuate that I was using my job to tell these people how I really feel?"

"I surely was."

As soon as the door closed, Summer confessed. "You know me so well."

The two laughed. "Girl, you know Lea is probably complaining to Ryan right now."

Summer sucked her teeth. "You know she is." Walking over to the kitchenette area, she turned on the Keruig and opened the drawer to select a pod. Her hand ghosted between the caramel and the dark magic, before she settled for caramel. "That black bitch—"

Mercedes snickered. "You sound just like her."

Summer frowned as she insert the pod and selected 8oz. "God, you’re right. I have to have to get out of here."

Smiling, Mercedes swiped down to refresh her emails. "Hey, look at it this way, you keep up this level of performance, and you’re a shoe-in for that Primetime Emmy.

The idea of adding another award to her resume was more than enough to keep Summer focused and dedicated. As a dark skinned black woman, she had to work ten times harder just to remain 20 steps behind. Anything she could do to push herself, she cherished.

Summer added creamer and sugar to her coffee, blowing before taking a sip. "After this, I need a quick break."

Mercedes hummed. "Umm, about that—"

"No."

"Summer—"

"No, Cedes, I’ve been working back to back since I scored 4AM, I think I’ve earned a little vacation time."

"I don’t disagree." Mercedes raised her hands in surrender.

"Thank you," Summer nodded, taking another sip of her coffee.

"But—"

"Here you go."

"I’m just saying, I’m hearing rumors about a potential role that’s gonna start casting in a couple of months."

Summer rolled her eyes and brought the mug to her mouth. "And?"

"And." Mercedes also rolled her eyes. "It’d be perfect for you."

"Mmmhmm."

"Summer," Mercedes lowered her voice. "It’s Storm."

Summer narrowed her eyes. "Storm?" Mercedes nodded. "You don’t mean—"

"X-Men Storm? I surely do."

Summer gasped and covered her mouth. "Bitch!"

"I know!" Mercedes giggled, shushing her client. "So do you see why I want you to keep your options open?"

Summer downed the remainder of her coffee and washed her mug in the sink all the while still stuck on the information she’d been told. "Do you really think I could be Storm?"

"Summer, please, you won an Oscar for your first Hollywood role. You’re a shoe-in."

"What about Shipp?"

"Shipp can skip her ass off somewhere."

The two women laughed when a knock on the trailer door prompted Summer to walk over, opening and smiling when she saw Amber. "Hey girl, come on in."

"I wish." Amber rolled her eyes. "Lea’s ready to start filming again. I mean, Ryan is ready to start filming again."

"You’ve got to be kidding me." Summer checked the watch on her wrist. "It hasn’t even been twenty minutes."

Amber sighed. "You know the saying. She says jump. We say—"

"Trip, bitch."

Amber laughed, as Summer looked back at Mercedes, pointing a finger. "This conversation isn’t over."

Mercedes winked at Summer, the two actresses sauntering back onto set.

Summer wondered if Lea had been listening outside her trailer, because it seemed as if Ms. Michele was purposely antagonizing Summer. Any scenes they had together, Lea would abruptly call cut and give Summer "pointers," all the while Ryan sat in his chair and said nothing.

Summer, forever the professional, managed to keep her composure, but there was only so much she could take.

Finally, when it came time for Summer to film her final scene, she saw an opportunity.

"Alright, and action!"

"I just want you to know that despite your distasteful behavior toward me, I hold no animosity and hope that one day you can release your unwarranted rage, and we can be cordial once I’m on Broadway."

Alexus turned to Rachel and tilted her head, crossing her arms. "I don’t like you. Never have, never will."

Rachel’s smile faltered. "Well, I-I’m sorry you feel that way, but--."

"Let me explain something to you, Berry. This is Lima, Ohio. The biggest thing we have going for us here is Breadstix, a restaurant chain that’s been on it’s last leg since that lawsuit filed by the kid who got two breadsticks stuck up her nostrils."

"I’m much better now."

Alexus ignored Britany and continued. "So, I’ll give you this, this small town notoriety and fame, because I know and you know, that once you actually make it out into the real world, reality is going to slap you so hard, you won’t need to have a nose job."

"Alexus—"

"Your stardom is limited to this pathetic town and its almost entirely pathetic population. And don’t get me wrong, you’re very good at manipulating and controlling individuals, because you can. For now. But, let’s be real, your voice isn’t anything I haven’t heard coming from street singers in NYC. Face it, you don’t have the talent nor the looks to make it into this big star you think you’re going to be. NYADA?" Alexus laughed. "Maybe you’ll make it, I doubt it, and even if you do, once you realize how utterly mediocre your narcissistic ass truly is compared to real talent, you’ll come crying back to Lima and spend the rest of your life working nights at Breadstix while watching reruns of Funny Girl on a goodwill VHS player." A beat. "Now, how’s that for raining on your parade?"

"And, cut!"

——

PRESENT TIME

"Christopher, stop!" Summer laughed as Chris came from behind and lifted her up against his solid frame. "I’m trying to do my makeup."

"You don’t need it," he murmured into her neck. "It’s going to end up all over the pillows anyw—"

"Sir!"

"Autumn."

"Would you please leave me alone?" Summer managed to wiggle herself free from her husband, flipping him off when he slapped her ass. "I am a human being."

"Allegedly."

"Alleged—lemme stop before I end up going to jail." She leaned over and examined her skin, feeling for the tackiness to see if her primer had settled. "This is why I can never do my makeup right. If it’s not him, it’s the twins."

We wanna see the babies!

I don’t get it. Why is she always so mean to him???

^^^^You must be new around here…

What makeup do you use?

Summer caught the last comment and grabbed her foundation and concealer, flashing them on the camera. "You know I have to support my girl, Ri. It’s Fenty Beauty all day everyday over here, ya’ll."

More comments came rolling in, Summer partially paying attention while she tried to do her makeup. Chris was taking her out on a date, the first they’d been on since the birth of the twins.

Summer was actually excited. She was in much need of alone time with her husband.

She grabbed the Snap shadow and blending brush when she noticed majority of the comments kept mentioning Lea Michele.

She didn’t even attempt to hide her distaste. "Why are ya’ll asking me about that girl? Did something happen?" Different stories were coming in prompting Summer to do her own research. "Baby, can I see your phone?"

Without hesitation, Christopher jogged into the bathroom, grabbing onto Summer’s hips while she typed Lea’s name into google.

Five minutes into reading, Summer slammed his phone onto the counter.

"Finally!"

"You’re paying for that," Chris muttered, grabbing his phone, thankful that it wasn’t cracked.

"Sorry, baby." She leaned up and kissed his cheek before looking into her phone. "Ya’ll, okay, most of you should remember I played Mercedes sister, Alexus, on Glee, right?" A wave of "yes" rolled in. "So, I’ve worked with the bitch, and I am not exaggerating when I say bitch. That heifer is literally the worst person I have ever had the displeasure of working with."

Summer pushed Christopher out the bathroom, in case her adding onto the Lea Michele drag train somehow ended up bad. "Now, I’d heard she was a nightmare, but I like to give everyone the benefit of the doubt."

"But, literally the first time I walked onto set and introduced myself to her, she looked me up and down, turned up her nose, and walked away." Summer clapped and covered her mouth. "It took everything in me not to call her ass out, but it was my first day, and I didn’t want to cause a scene."

"Obviously, I was a recurring star on the show so I would make appearances throughout the series, and each time I was there, she treated me, and everyone around her, like trash."

"Okay, but here’s the real tea, you know that read Alexus gave Rachel in season 3? That wasn’t in the script." Summer laughed at the comments. Her fans were freaking out. "My line ended when I told her I didn’t like her or something, but it was my last day of filming, and I’d literally had enough of her."

Even more comments came rolling in of laughing, frog, and tea emojis. Summer sucked her teeth and placed her hand on her hip. "Ya’ll, her white ass thought she was gone’ be a thirty something Maria from West Side Story on broadway." A beat. "Somebody had to let her know!"

[tatertotthethot]

The Doms Next Door 2.0

THIS IS A TEMPORARY REUPLOAD FOR THIS CHAPTER CUZ TUMBLR IS RAN BY A BUNCH OF BOTS. 2.1 HERE

Warnings/AN: frequent, casually cursing; comical, gay Jimin; insecure reader; steamy flirting; tattoo/sexualized Tae 🙃. Enjoy~ (TAEKOOK EDIT ABOVE IS ARTKOOK DONE BY NONCONMAN ON INSTAGRAM)

copyright © 2018 all rights reserved

_________________________________

Your tires came to a stop outside of the tattoo shop you've seen online— a brick building, covered in spray paint and street-style art. A sign buzzed over the awning of the entrance doors, with the built-in UV lights and graffiti-styled font displaying the name of the place in neon-red letters. Kink For Ink! The name alone was what first caught your attention last week, when you Googled "Tattoo shops near me" and it pulled up a list, with "Kink For Ink" being the first option. It just seemed so uncanny and fitting at the time, considering the previous run-in you just had with the sex-crazed neighbors a couple nights before. You couldn't help but to click the link to their Instagram.

A profile came up with 53.4k followers, which immediately blew your mind... but you quickly saw why. Every tattoo and piercing, no matter the body-placement, skin-type, or quirky design, was vividly appealing— certainly done by the articulate hands of certified experts. Even in the comments of the piercings that were posted, people were praising them for the "minimal" amount of pain they experienced, despite the fact that some of piercings were done in places you couldn't even fathom the thought of having a needle jammed through.

It said in the bio that the shop is owned by the two artists that work there— Kim Taehyung and Jeon Jungkook. You couldn't find out much about them, all their pictures showed was their work. You even went back to search for a personal account of their own, but nothing came up. You then went back to the bio and clicked a link to the official website, hoping to find out something, but you were met with a disclaimer rule at the top that automatically deemed your chances of even getting your piece done by them, slim-to-none.

• No walk-ins allowed.

• Every request/idea must be sent in through the DMs of our Instagram page. You will only be accepted only if it spikes our personal interests.

Yikes; You were instantly discouraged by this. The piece you wanted was something so common and cliché, that you actually got the image out of a child's coloring book.... It was the cartoon layout of the glass vase and enchanted rose, from the Beauty and the Beast movie. Cheesy, yes. But it was something of personal, nostalgic value. You remember when you were little— roughly around 3 or 4 years of age— when your parents started fighting and would spend all day screaming and throwing things at each other, putting you in a constant state of anxiety. But then you'd go to bed at night and pop the VHS tape, and the movie never failed to put you in a peaceful state of mind— a hopeful one. It's remained as your all-time favorite love story throughout the years. Which, is ironic, considering that the relationship itself was different, but almost as dysfunctional as your parent's. However, the fact that even the Beast was capable of change, and everything wound up so perfect and happy in the end, makes your heart happy. And even now, at age 19, it still puts you in your feelings. The previous remake of a movie is what actually inspired you to get the enchanted rose as a tattoo, after seeing it in 3D not too long ago. But you're only willing to shell out up to $200 for it, at most. You've just started college, and even though Jimin's parents own the house and let the two of you live there, rent free, you're still responsible for half the utility bills from month to month. Blowing every bit of money you have saved up, right at the start of the semester, would just be irresponsible. But $200 was manageable, and you're looking for anything that'll give you a little extra "oomph" to break you out of this introverted shell you've always known. Pushing it off would just delay it, and you were ready for change. The nose piercing you want is just a small little thing that'll hopefully add a bit of flare to the features of your face. These two guys could probably do the piercing/tattoo with a blindfold on and a hand tied behind their back. So, if it meant that you'd be able to get these things done in confidence, without having to worry about the outcome, you figured it wouldn't hurt for you to at least ask, even if they straight-up ignore you. So, after spending an unnecessary amount of time overthinking the wording of your text, you finally constructed a message in your notes and DM'd it to business page, after sending them a small, simple outline of the cartoony rose, and pressed send.

• You: Hello! I've been wanting to get this tattoo done for a very while now, and was hoping one of you will be willing to do it for me... along with piercing my nose? I know it's a very mediocre and cliché piece, and a nose piercing can be done anywhere. But I'm new to the area and I've never gotten a tattoo/piercing done before and I haven't really checked out any other places either because I found this page first. And from what I can see, you guys are pretty efficient and CRAZY talented. So, I trust it'll get done right.... only if you want to! I'm willing to pay $200 for this, but if it costs that much for just the outline I've sent then that's fine as well. But I understand if neither of you want to do it cuz that is really cheap compared to the ones I've seen lol. But either way, thx for ur time 😁

A few minutes went by and you had just unlocked your phone to check the message again, when the word "seen" popped below the message. You held your breath for a second— but seconds turned to minutes, and time went by with no reply, what-so-ever. You figured maybe you sounded a little too immature to take seriously; kind of like a prepubescent 12-year-old asking someone out for a dance... and you blew it. Which was disappointing, but predictable. So fuck it. Maybe it's a sign; you shouldn't get it after all.

11pm rolled around, many hours later. You were now hiding beneath your covers, beginning your "amateur threesome" exploration on PornHub. You were ready to see what this whole "2 guys, 1 girl" thing was all about. But just when you were about to type it into the search bar, you were interrupted by an Instagram notification dropping down from the top of your screen.

"KinkForInk sent you a message."

You audibly gasped, eyes turning to saucers as you clicked on the notif and switched over to the Instagram app.

• KinkForInk: Hi (Y/N). This is Tae, one of the artists of the shop. The tattoo you sent in is worth roughly $100... but I want to run an offer by you in hopes that you'll be interested.

— Your brows scrunched in oddity, stomach fluttering. An offer? For you?

• You: Okay, sure. What's that?

• KinkForInk: I've been looking for someone willing to showcase the custom design I've come up with, specifically for a much more... exclusive version of the Beauty and the Beast tattoo you sent. And if you'd be down for letting me and my partner put it on you, it'll be free. No charge. BUT you'll also have to sign a contract saying that you'll do a little bit of modeling for us once it's done. You think you'd be in to doing something like that, even if you get it?

— Your head spun for a second, reading the message over and over again until you could fully wrap your mind around what he was saying.

• You: Hold on... YOU wanna put a tattoo on ME so that I model for you? And it's FREE? Are you sure about this? I'm not even model material lol.

• KinkForInk: Yes, yes, and yes, you are. You'd be perfect for this.

• You: How do know that? Is it a face tattoo? Cuz I only have 6 selfies on here and you can't see anything past my shoulders.

—"Seen" came up as soon as you hit send, but a couple of minutes rolled by with no reply to the message, nor was he even typing. Maybe you came off a little rude. But it was already sketchy and it was a logical question.

— An image suddenly popped up: a screenshot of your Facebook profile. Then another— and much to your horror, it was the photo Jimin tagged you in last week, when the two of you were swimming at a local community pool. You were wearing a simple two piece, sitting at the foot of the lawn chair Jimin was also sitting in, as his legs were visible on either side of you and his lap was practically framing your ass. The photo was at an upward angle and looked so scandalous— but really, you had just asked Jimin to put sun screen on your back and he didn't want to stand up because the pavement was too hot against his bare feet. But you actually liked the picture at the time; it was just a silly joke and your ass actually looked quite nice from that angle. Plus, everyone knows nothing sexual actually goes on between the two of you, for obvious reasons. But Taehyung doesn't, so you couldn't help but dreadfully cringe when you saw the caption of the screen shot.

"Babymama 💦🍆"

• KinkForInk: Is this you??

• You: Yes, that's me. The caption is a joke tho... pay no mind to that. But this is like, really happening? You really think it'd look good on me?

— Why that picture though? You couldn't help but wonder.

• KinkForInk: Yes. Like I said, you're perfect for this piece. Are you down to at least see what the tattoo will look like? We don't expect you to be experienced with modeling or anything, but if you listen to us and cooperate, you'll do just fine.

• You: Yes I wanna see, and I'll do the best I can if I decide to get it... I'm just a bit shy, is all.

• KinkForInk: You'll be in good hands. I promise.

• You: Okay... are you going to show me??

• KinkForInk: Can't send it over a message, I don't want it plagiarized or the concept stolen. But the piece itself isn't necessarily crazy or anything, just more creative. I'd be more than happy to show you at my shop some day this week, if you'd be willing to swing by.

• You: Yeah, I can do that. When should I come?

• KinkForInk: Are you available after 5 tomorrow?

• You: I am, I get off at 4:30.

• KinkForInk: Great. Be here by 5:30, and make sure you've eaten in case you like the piece and wanna get started. It's pretty big for a first timer and gonna take a lot of time and patience. It'll have to be done in sessions but I hope you have a fair enough pain tolerance to at least get the outline of it done first.

— It can't be any worse than a bikini wax, you thought, shivering at the memory. That a story for another time. You decided on an alternative scenario.

• You: I give blood from time to time... but that's easy and doesn't really hurt that much. I think I can handle it though... maybe. I honestly don't know lol, I'm sorry 😣. But I can try my best. Can I ask where it's supposed to go?

• KinkForInk: That's okay, I'll work with you. It's supposed to go down the middle of your back. Starts between the center of your shoulder blades, and trails down the length of your spine to your lower lumbar. You'll see how it looks once we transfer a template on your back. But if you don't like it, there will be no hard feelings from my end. I can still do the tattoo you want if that's the case, free of charge just for your time.

• You: Oh no, you don't have to do that! I'd still pay!

• KinkForInk: Not if I don't accept your money. Trust me, I'm not worried about it. The nose piercing is gonna be $30 regardless, though. JK isn't so lenient.

• You: Of course. Will I have to take my shirt and bra off for the tattoo?

• KinkForInk: Yes, and for the pictures once it's done.

— Your mind blanked at that; thumbs froze over the keypad. He was typing again.

• KinkForInk: Don't let that discourage you. Again, you're in good hands. You can bring something to cover your chest. And the pics will be if your back as well.

• You: Okay, I can handle that. So 5:30 tomorrow?

• KinkForInk: Yes, please don't flake on us!

• You: Lol, I won't. I'll be there.

"They're gonna knock us the fuck out and sell our organs to the black market," Jimin declared. He had parked next to you outside of the shop, and was now sitting in the driver seat of his car with his door locked and windows all the way up, refusing to get out. You were standing right outside his door, still having to talk on the phone. "And is this Tae-guy an AllState representative or something?"

Jimin is petty. You wanted him here for moral support— which he's usually reliable for— but this time, he's just plain salty right and doing everything he can to remind you of that. Reason is, he's been begging you to get a matching tattoo with him ever since your 18th birthday, and you've always refused because of what he wanted to get.

Cupcakes. Jimin wanted to get matching cupcake tattoos... in honor of Cupcakke the legend. Sorry, but H E L L no.

You rolled your eyes, growing frustrated. He only has enough time to pop in and confirm that these two aren't gonna kill you, and then he's gotta head home to get ready for work. You were already supposed to be in there. It was 5:33pm, 3 minutes past the time.

"Jimin, you're the one that insisted on coming along! And now you're making me late!" you ranted. "I'm going in without you."

"Hold your horses, hoe! I'm finishing my blueberry slushie," He retorted, sassily bringing the straw to his mouth and loudly slurping it into the phone. He then abruptly flinched away from the straw with a disgusted expression, nostrils flared, body locking up; lips drawing into an air-tight knot that was so extreme and unnatural, it caused an ugly snort to break out of your nose.

He smacked his lips in exaggeration to the taste, face falling back into stone as an eyebrow arched over the top of his aviators; unamused and saltier than before... Like you were at fault for that, too.

"Or... Blueberry-ass, I should say."

That forced another giggle out of you as Jimin stiffly rolled his window down, phone still pressed to his ear and eyes still scowling at you behind the inspector shades. He bit down on the straw and withdrew it with his teeth before dumping the dark-blue contents of the drink out of the window, making it a point to shake the styrofoam cup empty of every drop before tossing it over his shoulder and into back seat. He then spat the straw out of his mouth with an audible "PLUUUUH!" of a French accent, and waited until the window rolled all the way up again, just so he could hang up the phone. You scoffed at this as you shoved your phone back into your pocket, scornfully watching Jimin exit the car and slam the door behind him. He snatched his glasses off his face as his cotton-candy hair swayed in the breeze, revealing his scornful eyes right back at you as he gestured for you to lead the way in exasperated manner— as if you were the one wasting his time now.

"Go on, lead us to the grave," He shooed, a snippy little shit. You sauntered away, walking up the side of the shop, then paused just before reaching the glass entrance door, when you remembered how much of a coward you are. You've never even stepped into a parlor before, and supposedly, this was a famous one. Which makes it more and more surreal when you think about it.

"Are we doing the mannequin challenge now? Is that what we're doing?" Jimin sardonically inquired.

"You go first, I'm nervous!" You whisper-hissed.

"You don't want me to go in there first— I'll show out," he reasoned, simply stating a fact.

"Please don't," you whined.

"Then, again, I'll show out?" He reiterated, as if to say duh. "How else am I supposed to break the ice? I look like Timmy Turner's Fairy-Gay- Parent."

You gave him a wary look... he's right. You sighed, slightly kicking your foot in distracted defeat. Fuck, you hated making an entrance to new places—

"Hold up— is that Drake?" Jimin suddenly blurted, holding his hand up to silence you. You honed in on the muffled track playing from behind the glass door, and Jimin's face soon light up like a Christmas tree before he spun around you, unstoppable.

"Jimin, NO—!"

"KIKI, DO YOU LOVE ME—?!"

It was already too late. The door was flying back behind him as he Milly-Rocked his way into the shop, leaving you no choice but the chase in behind him.

"—ARE YOU RIDING? SAY YOU'LL NEVA-EVA LEAVE FROM BESIDE ME— hello there."

You were panting, coming to a stop right behind Jimin, where you instantly latched on to the back of his shirt as you met the face of the man behind the studio counter. And, as corny as this is gonna sound: the world actually stilled for a solid beat... or maybe you were in the verge of cardiac arrest.

A pair of glossy-Black eyes looked up at the two of you; A series of silver-studded earrings trailed along the outer cartilages, peaking out beneath a head of soft, layer-swept hair. It was a Carmel-tinted blonde in color— thick and shaggy, and neatly spilling in waves around a headband that proudly sported a high-dollar brand-name you've never seen anyone wear in person before. G U C C I, it read— Meaning that the headband alone was probably worth more than some of your college text books, put together. It sat just a few inches above a pair of dark brows, that oddly brought out the shape of his cat-like eyes— irises like polished marbles. His ample lips had a sharp, well-defined Cupid's-bow, and a natural shade of pink that fit the porcelain appearance of his melanin-kissed complexion, to the finest degree.

And here you are, looking like an actual bum. You had just enough time to clock out of work and head straight over here to make it in time. You didn't even have any makeup on, and the only thing hiding your raggedy hair from those captivating eyes is your old baseball cap from high school. It took a second for him to take the bold presence that was Park Jimin— who was also frozen to the spot as he openly checked the guy out. He was hunched over the counter, a v-neck hoodie covering the rest of him with a thin, loose-fitting material. It was Black and allowed a full visual of his tan neck, and prominent collar bones. And it certainly didn't hide the fact that he had a pair of wide-set shoulders, either. A pencil sat in his hand— one that was laced with masculine veins, and lot of decorative ink. There was a silver ring on his thumb.. and a very heavy-looking Rolex watch.

The man cracked a grin at Jimin— a boxy one that dimpled in at the corners.

"Love the hair," he humorously began, twisting a quirky eyebrow at Jimin. You subconsciously snagged the bill of your hat as your eyes went a little wide at how mature the man's voice was.

"Love the watch," Jimin retorted, then reached around and gripped you by the wrist before pulling you into full view beside him. "You wouldn't happen to be Taehyung...?"

"Mhm," the man hummed, absentmindedly moving his wrist at the mention of his watch. His eyes cut over to you, and you swore you could see a minuscule reflection of yourself in his eyes, before they flashed back at Jimin and blinked. "You must be the babydaddy?"

Blood rushes to your ears. It's really him... a guy who looks like a high-dollar model himself, asking you to be his canvas model. Your own conscious didn't even know what to say right now. So you stayed quiet and still as Jimin took charge... which was a mistake.

"She wishes, but no. I'm the best-friend— and a gay one, at that," Jimin replied, and you knew he did that for his benefit. Thot. "I'm just here to make sure you're not gonna sacrifice her to Satan, or anything of that nature. I need her around in case I ever forget the Netflix password."

Taehyung chuckled at that, mouth opening to reveal a row of teeth shinier than Chip Skylark's. But then, you caught something behind his teeth that caused your gut to leap. A silver ball... a tongue ring. Your thoughts clouded over for a second.

"Well, I can assure you, she's safe with me," he said, looking over at you again. You blinked, nothing more. His brow arched at your lack of response, but this time, it was done more handsomely as he was still smirking at you. "Still, you don't look too thrilled to be here... You sure you wanna do this?"

"She's just nervous because you're really fucking hot," Jimin announced, unyielding. "You should feel how sweaty her hand is."

"Don't listen to him— I'm gay too," You lied in panic, trying to defend yourself from the absolute truth Jimin spoke just then. You snatched your hand away from him and jutted a finger at the door, eyes beading and lid twitching as your nerves ran amuck. "Goodbye, Jimin."

"She's a lonesome hetero," Jimin told Taehyung, assuring him with a face that showed no bluff. "One look at her camera roll, and you'd see for yourself—" You were yanking him away by the arm now, in a tug-of-war game that Jimin obviously could've won if he really wanted to. But he figured you suffered enough and eventually let you drag him out of the shop, waving bye to Taehyung before turning to look at you with beading eyes.

"I think he wants to fuck you— text me as soon as you can," Jimin uttered with unmoving lips as before he walked to his car. You stopped for a second, noticing he was actually being serious. How could he possibly think that he wants to fuck you, just from that small encounter? And what is the odd sensation currently coiling in your stomach? Things grew awkward again when you re-entered the shop, coming to a stand at the same spot... only alone now. He was still amused, it seemed. And so calm and cool despite this odd, intense look in his eyes. It gave him a Casanova effect, where all he had to do was give you that look and it'd instantly make you blush.

"He seems like a fun person to be around," he noted, somewhat honestly, but more so making fun of the red-hot appearance of your face.

"He's a pain in the ass," you muttered, trying to conjure up a smirk but hardly even able to speak properly from how dry your mouth was. It felt like there was a white-hot iron expanding in your throat. "I'm really sorry about him."

"Don't be. I'm just glad you're here— thought you'd chicken out." You nervously wiped your clammy palms over the back pockets of your jeans as Taehyung got up from the barstool behind the counter and approached you on the other side of it, a whole head-and-a-half taller than you. He was wearing black cardigan jeans and matching combat boots.. his headband and jewelry the only thing not black on him. And oddly enough, he made it look fucking fantastic.

"Mh-mm," You hummed, not trusting your voice. You've never needed a sip of water so bad in your life— he even smelled expensive.

"Well, It's very nice to meet you," he formerly began, and you mustered up the normality of placing your (dried) hand into his much larger one, as he held his out to you in greeting. And boy, was he close. So close that the heels of your spine itches to lean back from the proximity.

"It's nice to meet you, too. I'm really sorry if I'm acting weird. I'm just nervous." — Your mind struggled to stay focused on your words, arm tensing at the skin-to-skin contact. You were extra-effected by the firmness in his grip. You really wanted to look down at all the bold ink you saw dashing across the veiny surface of his tanned hand, or see if those were images or scripted letters on the knuckles of lengthy fingers... But you were held captive by those God-blessed eyes... And that fucking tongue ring. It was infecting your head in ways that weren't necessarily healthy for your current state of mind, as you saw it peering in and out at certain words.

"And physically shaking," Taehyung pointed out, brows twitching down at your trembling hand in his as if he was concerned for it. But his smirk gave off an odd sense of fascination to the involuntary symptom, like it was cute or something? Hm. He glanced back up at you, causing your dehydrated throat to bob as his other hand came to clasp over the rest of yours, swallowing it completely from the wrist down. "Intimidated?"

"V-Very," you spluttered, a small slither of saliva copulating down your throat as you looked back up at him. He absentmindedly rolled his tongue ring over the button row of his teeth as he watched you with tainted eyes— undoubtably getting cocky with that damn grin of his and proudly teasing you about your reaction to him. It gratified the effortless sex-appeal he had. You were even beginning to imagine that tongue ring elsewhere, and you literally just met him. Then, as you felt the band of a ring move along with the pad of his thumb as gently ran it across your trembly knuckles, chills shot up all the way to your shoulder. Oh... oh wow. You glanced down at his knuckles on reflex this time, and saw a four-letter word scripted in black ink across the bottom row of his knuckles, and another word scripted on the middle section of his fingers. A silver band on his naked thumb. STAY TRUE, it said.

"And why's that?"

"I.. feel like you're a celebrity," you sheepishly admitted, your other hand wedging into your back pocket as you had to stop yourself from reaching for the bill of your hat again. Is he flirting? The words seem too innocent for the way he was making you feel. It was getting so hot in the oven of his massive palms, and he wasn't even squeezing you hard enough to cut off any circulation, but yet your fingers were beginning to tingle.

"Mm, no. Just a little popular, really," he granted, teetering his head a little as he pondered the thought. You could see his vocal chords contract in his sleek neck as they project his smooth, pungent voice. "You still trust me?"

"Mhm," was all you could muster. He'd gotten even closer, to where his hand had gone into a prayer stance around yours. You were aware of how wide your eyes had gone from the awe you... you knew this was just the beginning. He was going to be very handsy throughout this whole process. But in a very twisted way, you were more than okay with that. Even if it meant you were at risk of fainting from actual dehydration. Maybe you were in over your head. But you couldn't will yourself away from this now. And then, just as a wide, heart-stopping smile edged out on that mind-numbingly handsome face, the door at that back of the room swung open, and heavy-metal rock blasted through the quiet vibe of the scenery and caused you to jump a little at the disturbance. Taehyung shot a wicked smile over his shoulder, and his next words nearly knocked you out right then and there as you beheld yet another, breathtaking sight.

"Oh, there you are," Tae eagerly acknowledged, one hand still holding yours as he walked around to grab your with the other, presenting you to the.. hulking presence in the room. "This is (Y/N), our next little experiment."

[fancysimpinghere]

Euphories (Sykkuno x reader imagine)

well hello everyone, its me. It’s my first post here, so I kinda don’t know how to act, well, I’m trying to be natural but as you can see, I failed on the start so maybe we can skip this awkward attempt to make a good impression.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

summary: You always liked video games and vintage aesthetic, so when you saw a strange signboard informing about small shop with games and videotapes in your town, you can’t help but go there and check it out. They say that curiosity killed the cat, but when you entered the shop you weren’t sure if you’re dying from curiosity, but maybe from the cuteness in stranger’s smile.

based on the plot from “Euphories” Videoclub

It was getting darker, when you left your apartment and went for a small walk. You always liked to catch fresh air before sleep, and even more you liked summer sunsets and evenings. It was something magical in beautiful view, accompaned by natural sounds of your small town - quiet music from restaurants, laughing kids, jingles from trams. For others it could be bothering, but for you, it was not. Delicate ambient sounds was calming your nerves and taking your mind away from busy day of working you had just finished. You wandered the narrow streets and watched light plays on the walls of apartment houses around you. The air started to get cooler and more fresh, so you breathed it deeper. You know this town like your own pocket - you grew up here and have great memories from your childhood, which returned to you during walks like this. Sometimes you were playing outdoors with your friends, sometimes when the weather were not that good you stayed  home and played video games with your older brother. You smiled when you recalled this memories - you shared this passion with your brother and you both were spending a lot of time breaking records and learning new techniques. It was fun. You were lost in memories when you heard little squeak from your left side. Your head turned in direction of the sound and you started searching source of it. You spotted something fluffy under the small signboard that was standing in archway to apartment house. Small creature looked at you from it’s place, watching you with big, cat eyes and squeaked again.  - Oh, hi buddy. - you cooed at this poor thing, your eyes roaming surroundings and catch the better sight of signboard. Join us on the time travel, was written on dark surface with pale letters. Under text was drawing of video tapes and gaming pad, and the signboard was wrapped in the colorful lights. You didn’t know that it was shop like this in your town, so you immediately grew curious. It was quiet again, you looked around but there was no signs of a cat. You shrugged shoulders.

- Hope you have a place to sleep, kitty. - you murmured as if it could hear or understand you. Your thoughts returned to mysterious signboard and you take a look at it again. There was small arrow pointed at the dark archway. You took a few steps closer to look inside and you spotted another signboard - this one was with neon letters, which were saying: Video Games And Film Tapes. You calculated in your mind if checking this shop will be worth your time, but your curiosity won the battle and you started to walk down the archway. Neon sign stayed behind you as you walked, echo of your steps getting louder. When you get to the end of this tunnel, in front of your eyes appeared warmly lit up shop window with small, colorful posters of game heroes and movie stars. Window was huge and encouraged you to enter the shop. Before you geto to the door, you started to be afraid if the shop is still open for today. But you didn’t spotted any signs, so you grab the doorknoob and twisted it. To your joy door opened and soon you were inside the shop. Small bell jingled and announced your entering. When you took your surroundings, you gasped with delight. Colorful tree lights and posters were hanging on the walls, making a magical, warm athmosphere. Behind the counter you saw old man, probably the owner of the shop. At first you thought he was talking with someone, but seconds after the realization hit you. You giggled when you realized that sounds he was making actually was snoring and man was deep asleep. But then you started to worry - what if someone was there before you, stole something and this man will wake up and will acuse you of this? Before you even can make any sound or move, you heard someone approaching you. 

- Uhm... he- hello. - you turned in the direction of soft boyish voice. In front of you was standing young man, you could say that you both were on similar age, but you have never seen him before. He has dark hair with forelock almost falling on his eyes, and before you could make any statement about this boy in your head, you have to admit that he is extremely cute. 

- It is very nice seeing you here, can I help you with something? - he asked with this soft voice, almost avoiding eye contact. You blushed, because your heart almost melted at his words. You knew that he probably welcomed every client here with this phrase, but something in his voice made you feel special.

- Oh, I’m... I came here just to look. - your tongue tangled with words when you realised you are actually supposed to answer his question if you want to make good impression. - I just saw the signboard and thought this place has to be interesting. I really like old video games.  - you said, smiling softly at the boy. He looked away again and you saw small blush creeping his neck. He laughs nervously, automaticly covering up his smiling mouth with his hand.

- Uhm, me too. That’s why I started to working there. - he said and finally looked into your eyes. You knew that your thoughts probably sounded cliche, but you could swear that there was something sparkling in his eyes, something that awaken butterflies under your heart. You were rather shy with new people and you never know how you found the courage to keep the conversation going, but quiet voice in your head were whispering to you to not waste this opportunity. 

- Actually if I am here...- you started, not knowing if it’s a good idea, but it was your only idea to spend some more time with cute stranger. - ... I can take a look of games that you have here. Could you show me the way?

The boy’s eyes sparkled with joy at your question and you again almost melted when you’ve heard his giggle.

- Okay, let me show you. - your heart swelled with hope and excitment at his words. He let you to the video games section and you gasp with astonishment. It looked like alley in the library, but the showcases were lower, reaching your shoulders, and not with books, but with games. Some positions were highlighted with small led lamps, some were set in special showcases with small retro gadgets - figurines of game heroes, key chains, models etc. - Wow, you’ve got here every parts of the Legends of Astoria! - you gasped, mindlessly pointing at the shelf with your beloved game. - It was my favourite, till the Prince in Distress were announced!

- Oh, I see you’ve played as much as me. - your companion chuckled soflty. - My favourite game was Space Ruler.

- Oh, really? - you asked, really amazed. - I loved it, I had every VHS in my special collection. I always adore princess Aria, she was my favourite heroine of all the time. Boy stayed silent for a moment, looking at you with contemplative face. Then he turned away and started to look for something on the lowest shelf.

- Hmm, I’m pretty sure you didn’t have this part. - he said finally, turning his face to you and coming a bit closer. - It is a special edition, limited. This is one from four avaliable pieces of this part.

You couldn’t believe your ears, when you heard his statement. It sounded ubelievable, but he was right - you have never seen this piece and you were sure of it. 

- Oh my...- you whispered, gently reaching to touch the cover of cassette. Your fingers gently brushed plastic surface. For a second you had a prickling sensation, but it finished faster than you could say.

- Do you want to hold it? - boy asked, looking at you with warm smile. Something like hope were glistening in his eyes.

- Can I? - you really wanted to feel VHS in your hands. From what boy were saying and your own thoughts you were sure that this cassette is worth a fortune. He nodded in answer and held out his hand. When you catch game with your palm, somethins strange happened. Suddenly you were not holding game, but boy’s hand, and your surroundings started to spin and flicker. You didn’t know whats happening, and then you started to fall. Air was ruffling your hair and you started to scream. You looked around and spotted your companion. He had a really shocked expression on his face, and you saw a guilt in his eyes.

- Close your eyes and don’t let go of my hand! - he tried to shout, but you had a feeling that his voice was to soft to do this, but you understood him anyway. You can’t do much in this situation, you could just hold him for your dear life and pray to stay alive. part 2

[trashyswitch]

Virgil's Post-Halloween Adventure With Roman

Virgil has been really down since Halloween came and went. So, Roman creates a full Halloween city so Virgil and some of the other sides can bring their Halloween fantasies to life.

This was requested by @puppysparkles03. You wanted drastic measures, so: HAVE AN ENTIRE HALLOWEEN TOWN! XD Hope you like it!

Virgil had been in a sad mood since November started. Virgil got his chance to dress up and be his scary self for halloween but...now that Halloween was over, Virgil had grown sad. He loved halloween. Why couldn’t it be Halloween for longer than an evening? The only things that have made Virgil somewhat satisfied was his Halloween candy. Virgil’s been eating tons of halloween candy as of late. From sweets to mini bags of chips, to juice boxes and candy corns, even a rice crispy square ended up in his halloween bag. That was a nostalgic moment for him. It was nice to eat a rainbow (gay) rice crispy square.

One day, Roman managed to get Virgil out of his room for a little adventure in the mind palace. Despite enjoying being out of the room, Virgil did grow annoyed by all the walking. “Can’t you conjure up a train or a car? Or, maybe even a horse and buggy?” Virgil asked.

Roman giggled. “Come on, Virgil! It’s such a pretty day for a walk. Wouldn’t you agree?” Roman asked. Virgil only let out a grunt as a reply. Roman turned to face him. “Come on, Hallo-whiner. I think you’re gonna like the special place that I conjured up, just for you:” Roman told him, grabbing his hand.

Virgil looked up at Roman with the smallest glimmer of hope in his eyes. Roman summoned some black eyeshadow, and help Virgil touch it up. “There ya go. And some blood…” Roman started drawing liquid red face paint dribbles that ran down the corners of Virgil’s mouth to the sides of his chin. “There! Maybe some red lipstick-”

“No red lipstick.” Virgil told him.

“Oooor no red lipstick.” Roman changed up his wording before putting the lid on his lipstick. “Okay! Looking all halloweeny!” Roman declared.

“I thought Halloween was over?” Virgil told him.

“Not unless you want it to be over. And something tells me you don’t want Halloween to be over just yet.” Roman admitted.

Roman picked up Virgil and walked up a hill. Soon, the luscious green grass disappeared from his vision and dark purples, oranges and blacks filled his vision. Virgil’s eyes widened when he realized what it was: It was an entire halloween city!

“What do you think?” Roman asked.

“Are you kidding?!” Virgil reacted. “I LOVE IT!” Virgil yelled, grabbing his shoulders with a big smile on his face. Roman giggled and looked over at the halloween city. “Now: I have given you the ability to snap into the halloween costume of your dreams!” Roman explained to him. “For example:” Roman snapped and watched as a bunch of material surrounded him before disappearing with his costume on himself.

“Oooooh! A roman emperor?” Virgil specified.

“Indeed! A Roman emperor who must rule with an iron fist!” Roman explained. His clothing consisted of a white robe with a brown rope tied around his middle, and a long red sash that was wrapped around his left arm and flowed down the rest of his lower body. To top it off, Roman had a golden laurel wreath on his head! He looked amazing, to be honest!

“Do you have a costume preference of your own, Virgil?” Roman asked.

Virgil nodded and snapped his fingers. A whole bunch of material surrounded Virgil, and soon flew away and disappeared to reveal Virgil’s brand new costume.

Roman gasped and dropped his jaw. “OH MY GOSH- SWEENEY TODD! YESSS!” Roman reacted, covering his mouth.

Virgil was dressed up as Johnny Depp’s version of Sweeney Todd. He had his brown hair spray dyed black and gelled back, with a white big streak in the middle left of the hairline. He had the slightly tattered vest tuxedo with a belt on a pair of striped pants, male ankle boots and a pair of fingerless gloves on his hands. In his vest pocket were some plastic traditional barber knives, and in his pants pocket was a vintage pocket watch.

“HELL YEAH! I LOVE Sweeney Todd! Classic musical!” Roman declared.

Virgil looked at his own costume and started acting a little like a fanboy. “I’ve always wanted to dress up as this character, but it’s a really hard costume to pull off.” Virgil admitted.

“Oh! You forgot something!” Roman told him. Roman summoned a long black coat and put it on Virgil’s shoulders. Virgil smiled and put it on. “It’s gonna be a little cold in there.” Roman let him know.

Virgil blushed a little. “Thank you.” Virgil replied.

“Now come, my killer barber! We shall visit Halloween City!” Roman declared, pointing to the city. Suddenly, a big horse and buggy came rolling up right beside them. Virgil and Roman hopped into the horse and buggy before the horse was signalled to start clop-clopping to the city.

The city itself was FILLED to the brim with stereotypical halloween stuff. There were stores for buying and trying on halloween costumes of large variety, big towers with witches and cauldrons so you could make your own spells, a big library filled with horror, thriller and grotesque-themed books and movies in them, a cemetery filled with floating ghosts, skeletons and zombies, and there were even caves surrounded by dead forest that housed the cats, snakes, bats and vampires. The more that Virgil saw out the sides of the horse and buggy windows, the more excited Virgil got!

“You made all this?!” Virgil reacted.

“Yes, I did!” Roman replied.

Virgil gasped and looked around more as the horse and buggy dropped them off in the middle of the city. The middle of the city has a simple, run down fountain in the middle with vines circulating the brick water pit. In the middle of the water fountain, was a few skulls lined up like a square with an infinite waterfall running through their eyes, nose holes and mouths, that fell into the water pit below. It was kinda creepy, but...strangely beautiful to look at.

Virgil almost immediately ran up to the big victorian library. “COME ON, ROMAN!” Virgil yelled to him.

“I’M COMING!” Roman yelled, quickly catching up to him.

Virgil walked up the stairs and quickly opened up the library door. The Victorian library was just as vintage-looking as it was on the outside. Only change being the place looked like a clean kind of vintage. The metal looked polished, the huge shelves looked old but not dirty or super run down, the ladder was wooden but stable and well made, and the middle aisles of shelves had movies and VHS tapes that you could borrow! This wasn’t just a victorian era library...this was a super old building that had been well kept and updated throughout the centuries!

Virgil happily looked around. “Logan would be over the moon about this.” Virgil told Roman.

“I know! He already IS!” Roman told him, before pointing to the ancient kids stories sections. There, hidden within the aisles, was Logan reading a Brothers Grimm fairytales from the 1800’s!

Logan looked up and smiled. “Hello, Virgil. I love the costume.” he greeted, giving Virgil an excited smile.

Logan was dressed up as Charlie ‘The Tramp’ Chaplin. He had the large bowl hat, the mustache, the large shoes, the suit and everything in between! He even had a bamboo cane perched up against the library shelf while he read.

“Hi Logan. Charlie Chaplin, huh?” Virgil reacted.

“Indeed. One of the most well known actors of the silent era.” Logan replied.

Virgil smiled and decided to ignore the bad things about Chaplin...for now. “Enjoying the book?” Virgil asked.

“Yes, I am! This is simply a collection of the Brothers Grimm stories compressed into one novel. It’s very interesting understanding just how much grim topics they could handle back in the day.” Logan told him.

Virgil nodded and started to look around himself. He found an aisle filled with classic novels like Little Woman, The Pride and The Prejudice, the Nancy Drew series, the Frankenstein novel and the original Dracula, an aisle filled with Shakespeare books, an aisle filled with outdated nonfiction books on multiple subjects, an entire aisle dedicated to the decades of encyclopedias, and even an entire aisle dedicated to the Marvel comic books throughout the decades! Virgil practically LOST it when he found Edgar Allen Poe novels, and quickly bought them. To make things even cooler, Roman summoned some 1800’s original bills and coins so he could pay for them! Virgil owed him a huge hug for that one.

After visiting the library, Virgil was brought to the cemetery to take a walk with Roman. “You are gonna LOVE this!” Roman told him. They only got a few minutes to walk around the cemetery before the huge clock tower struck 12.

Suddenly, a bunch of skeletons came digging out from under the graves and started dancing! The skeletons were very cartoon-like, similarly to Disney’s skeleton animation! And the best part? They were listening to ‘Spooky Scary Skeletons’ on a big radio as they danced around!

Virgil was smiling through the whole thing. “This is awesome!” Virgil reacted.

“I’ll say!” someone said, walking up to him from behind. Virgil turned around and widened his eyes. “Oh my…Are you Ed Gein?” Virgil asked.

Remus chuckled. “You bet I am!” Remus replied.

Virgil rubbed his nose, but chuckled a little. “You couldn’t go for leather face? Or Norman Bates?” Virgil asked.

“Nope! Gotta go all out!” Remus declared. “And what better than a guy who does more grave-digging than murdering?” Remus joked.

Virgil nodded, but awkwardly looked away. He wasn’t sure how he felt about Remus’s costume.

“WHY HELLO THERE!” someone yelled behind him. Virgil yelped and turned around. It was one of the dancing, singing skeletons!

“O-oh...You talk?” Virgil reacted.

“You BET I do! Call me Skelly!” the skeleton introduced, holding out their bone hand.

Virgil raised an eyebrow and chuckled at the name. “Virgil.” He replied, shaking the bone hand.

“What’s so funny? Is my name rib-ticklin’ to ya?” Skelly asked, showing off his ribcage.

Virgil stifled a laugh and pushed their shoulder. “Knock off the puns. You’re not as humerus as you think.” Virgil told him.

Skelly frowned at first, but quickly caught on. Skelly pointed to his own shoulder and smiled widely, before laughing. “Not bad, ol’ chum!” Skelly reacted. “Now tell me: Are you a skeleton too?” Skelly asked.

Virgil thought for a moment. “Well, not exactly. I do have a skeleton in me, but it’s filled and covered with flesh and organs.” Virgil explained.

“Wow! So, you have muscles?” Skelly asked. Virgil nodded. “A heart?” Skelly asked, pointing to the left side of his own chest. VIrgil giggled and nodded. “Oh! What about a skull?” Skelly asked before knocking on the top of Virgil’s head.

Virgil yipped at first and flapped his hands above his head. “Oi! My noggin’s not for knockin’!” Virgil warned.

Skelly chuckled at that. “What about ribs? Do you have a ribcage too?” Skelly asked, poking the left side of his ribcage.

Virgil jumped and stepped back, throwing his hands up in defense. “Okay buddy...No poking.” Virgil warned.

“Why not? Ticklish ribs?” Skelly asked, poking his ribcage again. Virgil wheezed somewhat and flapped his hands at him. “Dohon’t you dare…” Virgil warned.

Roman walked up to Virgil and picked the man up before throwing him at Skelly. “Have fun!” Roman told him.

Virgil squeaked and reached his arm out. “NO!” before landing into Skelly’s arms.

Skelly caught him perfectly and held him like a baby. “What a cute little fleshy skeleton I have! I could tickle you here,” Skelly started poking and prodding his ribs. “Here, here,” Skelly poked his front ribs. “Here, Aaaand HERE!” Skelly placed its claw tips onto Virgil’s belly and started skittering his fingers on his belly.

“What thehehehe- HAHAhahahaha! Whyhyhyhy thihihihis?!” Virgil asked, falling into a fit of giggles.

“Oh! It’s quite simple, really. I remember hearing from a certain someone, that your black makeup turns a dark purple when you’re all flustered! Isn’t that right, Emperor Romulus?” Skelly explained.

Roman giggled and shook his head. “It’s Roman, Skelly.” Roman corrected.

“Oh yeah…” Skelly muttered as he moved his fingers to Virgil’s sides.

“WAIT! NAHAhahahat myhyhyhy sihihihides! Lahahay ohohoff, mahahahan!” Virgil ordered.

“Lay? Okay.” Skelly laid Virgil down onto the dirt ground and resumed squeezing his sides.

“ThAHAHAt’s nahahahat whahat Ihihi meheheant, ya doohohohofus!” Virgil reacted.

“Really? When you said ‘lay off’, you didn’t mean ‘put me onto the ground and continue tickling me’? I could’ve sworn that was what you meant.” Skelly teased.

“Thahahat’s NAHAHAT whahahat I meheheant, ahahand YOHOHOHOU knohohow ihihihihit!” Virgil shot back.

“I don’t understand why you’re being so harsh on me. Looking at my point of view, you’d be confused too.” Skelly lightly argued.

Then, Skelly decided to pull a move that would drive anyone mad: Skelly started quickly spidering his fingers up and down Virgil’s ribs and sides. “NOOO! NO, NONONO- SKEHEHELLYHYHYHY! STAHAHAHAHAP!” Virgil laughed. Virgil’s eyeshadow color started to change the longer that he was tickled. And the higher up that Skelly’s fingers went, the more hysterical that Virgil’s laughter became. “WAHAHAITWAIT! DON’TGOAHAHANY- AAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! CUHUHUHUT IHIHIHIT OHOHOUHUHUT!” Virgil pleaded through his laughter.

“But why? You seem to be having so much fun! I can see it in your eyes!” Skelly proclaimed. “Well...below them, anyway.” Skelly followed up. Virgil’s eyeshadow had turned a pretty hue of purple rather quickly. Roman’s mouth widened excitedly as he gazed upon Virgil’s flustered face. “Roman was right! His eyeshadow CAN turn purple when flustered and happy!” Skelly reacted.

Roman smiled. “So Virgil Sanders enjoys being tickled?” He asked.

“IHIHIHI DOHOHOHO NOHOHOHOT!” Virgil tried to protest.

Roman just giggled at this. “Your eyes and eyeshadow marks give you away. Not only are you flustered by tickling, you seem to love the affection!” Roman explained out loud.

“Well! Rattle my bones and call me Skelly!” Skelly declared in surprise. “This Sweeney Todd is kinda cute!” Skelly declared.

“AHAHAHAM NOHOHOHOHOT!” Virgil protested.

“You really are, Virgil.” Roman replied. “Right, Skelly?” Roman asked.

“You are indeed, right!” Skelly replied.

As much as Skelly wanted to keep tickling him, Roman soon gave him the signal to stop. Skelly followed what he said and retreated his bony fingers. Stepping aside, Skelly let Roman walk up to him and help Virgil up.

“You okay?” Roman asked. Virgil nodded and took Roman’s hand, allowing him to help him up. Virgil’s eyeshadow was still quite purpley after all that. Roman giggled at this and rubbed his cheek. “Still flustery purple.” Roman told him happily.

Virgil giggled and shook his head as he pushed Roman’s hands away. “Stahap that.” Virgil told him, still quite flustered. Roman, Remus and Skelly all laughed at this.

Soon enough, Virgil and Roman moved on, to explore the rest of the city. As they left, Virgil and Roman gave Skelly a goodbye wave. “Bye Skelly! Have fun singing!” Roman yelled to him.

“Will do!” Skelly replied.

“Thank you for the fun time, Skelly!” Virgil said to him.

“Not a problem at all!” Skelly yelled back.

Virgil, Roman and Remus went to a special costume shop next, where he happily got himself a pair of bat wings and a vampire cloak!

By the time the clan got back, Virgil and the sides were feeling as happy as could be. They quickly started showing off their stuff to each other.

Remus got a fake skeleton from the prop shop, a witch potion bottle filled with thick blood, and a big black victorian portrait from the vintage market! He was non stop talking about having his room all halloween-y, till Remembrance day comes around.

Logan got himself a dozen books, a vintage writing book, a fountain pen and multiple ink reloading viles! He was all set for some journaling.

Roman got himself a classic king crown, an empty treasure chest to fill with items, and some vintage, expensive-looking jewellery for himself! He looked super excited to look like he was covered in riches.

Besides the bat wings and the cloak, Virgil also got himself some ruby red lipstick, a pretty black vampire choker, and a pair of black formal shoes.

With how the day went, Roman could proudly proclaim that Halloween City was a big success! Roman placed the entire imagined place into a pretty notebook and carved the words ‘Halloween City’ and ‘open on November 1, 2021’ into the front before placing it onto his book shelf...

[bumblebet-20]

A/N: GUESS WHO'S BACK. BACK AGAIN✌🤗

Tristan Dugray x reader

~Saturday Night~

"Babe! Babe please stop!" I whip around, facing the desperate man behind me. Everyone dancing around us stops and moves out of the way. 

"What? What do you possibly have to say to me?" He sighs, running a hand through his messy hair, wild from the constant times his fingers ran through it.

"It's not what it looks like" 

"So you weren't just making out with Sunny Walker?" Rory appears next to me, squeezing my hand in support. 

"No. Look she-"

"Save it. I don't want to hear whatever excuse you've made up. We're done" 

"Wait-'' 

"Tristan, just stop." Rory stands in his way, preventing him from walking after me. 

"Wait up!" Rory runs after me, following me out of the building "are you okay?" I stop waking, turning to face her, tears threatening to spill out.

"No. I'm just gonna go home. I can't be here and face everyone right now" 

"Alright. Want me to come with?"

"Don't you want to stay and hang out more?"

"I'm more worried about my friend than talking with these people" I sigh, wiping away a stray tear "come on, let's go to your house, watch a movie and eat a bunch of junk food, yeah?"

"I'd like that" she gives me a tight hug and a reassuring smile.

"Let's go then." 

~Monday~

Tristan POV

I keep my head down, ignoring the stares and hushed whispers of everyone. News travels fast, apparently. 

Rory passes by, stopping at her locker. I take a deep breath before walking up to her.

"Hey" she doesn't look up, just continues to face her locker.

"Hi." 

"Look, I need your help" she stops fiddling with her books, moving to look me in the eyes.

"What could I possibly help you with?"

"I need to win Y/N back. I've never thought I'd need a girl,but I have recently discovered how much of a dick I am without her" 

"I think she deserves better than you"

"Wow thanks." I cross my arms over my chest, preparing for the assault of words she's going to give me. To my surprise she sighs, closing her eyes before continuing.

"But"

"But?" My arms fall to my sides, not prepared for that.

"But. You make her happy and I hate seeing my friends upset. So yes. I will help you win her back"

"Thank you Rory! You won't regret this"

"Yeah yeah. Let's work on a plan" she takes out a notebook and pen, beginning to write.

-

~Later that night~

Readers POV

Britney Spears flows through my stereo as I lay flat on my back, tossing popcorn into my mouth, well, trying to anyways.

 "What should we do, Shadow?" I ask the German shepherd laying next to me, panting in my right ear "Horror? I like your style boy" I stand up, turning off the music and heading to the collection of VHS tapes before pausing "I've officially lost it. Talking to my dog" I return to the options before pulling out 'IT' and sliding it into the player. 

Georgie is dragged down into the sewer when a quiet, repetitive tapping hits the window to the balcony,making me grip the pillow I'm holding even harder. I pause the movie, slowly moving to the thick tan curtains. "Just breathe. It's definitely not a shapeshifting monster" I yank the curtains back, jumping back in shock when Tristan stands in front of me. "Tristan?" I unlock the sliding door, pushing it back a few inches.

"Hey"

"Why are you here?" He shallows nervously, rubbing his hands up and down his jeans before answering.

"I came here to explain what happened" he didn't give me a second to rebuttal before continuing 

"I didn't want to kiss her. She asked to speak with me alone. I figured it was about homework cause English is a bitch. But then she practically jumped me, forcing herself onto me. I was pushing her off when you walked in"

"Really? Is that the truth?" I look into his eyes, finding no traces of lies being told "Well. I feel like an idiot now." He walks forward, hands landing on my shoulders so I look at him.

"You are not an idiot. I am. I am for not trying harder to explain what had happened. For not climbing up to your window to talk sooner. Do you forgive me?" I simply nod, grabbing his hand and bringing him into the warmth of the room. 

"Why don't you spend the night? Make up for lost time" He nods, greeting Shadow,who was patiently waiting by my feet.

"IT. Not surprised by that. You love a good scary movie" I smile, crawling onto the bed so I'm next to him. 

"Can't go changing now, can I"

"I like you just the way you are" we share a smile, connecting our lips in a sweet, loving kiss.

We crawl under the covers, snuggling under the thick blankets before pressing play. 

-

I rub my eyes gently, squinting at the brightness of the room. The weight of an arm draws my eyes from the blinding light and towards the blonde next to me, arm slung over my torso, keeping me close. His chest falls steadily, revealing the peace he is in right now. 

I Quietly grab the phone next to me, dialing the number I've memorized. Biting my nail lightly as I listen to the ring continue.

"Hello?" 

"Rory? Omg Rory we made up!" I whisper yell, trying not to disturb sleeping beauty next to me.

"Oh that's amazing! I'm so happy for you!"

"Mhm, who are you talking to?" My heart stops at his morning voice, momentarily forgetting how deep it gets in the morning.

"Hey. I gotta go. Sleeping beauty is awake now" she says bye before disconnecting the call. I place the phone back down and twist to face him "Morning."

 "Morning to you. How'd you sleep?" He presses his face into my neck, breathing in deeply.

"Fantastic. Missed my heater" he chuckles, sending vibrations through my body. "We should get breakfast, it's probably getting cold by now"

"Mhm fine" he pulls away, and stands up. 

I follow his lead,heading out the door and towards the steps.

"Hey" he pulls me back into his chest, wrapping his arms around my waist to keep me close "I'm madly in love with you"

"I know. And the feeling is mutual" I grab his face, connecting our lips in a much more heated kiss. 

My body relaxes into the kiss, finally feeling at peace.

:3

She's a little rough but🤷‍♀️ hope you all enjoy it!!

Don't forget to leave a comment and request something!!

[mybillyhardgrove]

Mango Kisses b.h.

A/N: in celebration of the end of my freshman year in college, here is a little summer story with billy!!

Edit: this is so extremely late it’s sad BUT with the cold months comes my yearning for warmth, so enjoy anyway x ellie

Disclaimer: i don’t own any Stranger Things material

Word count: 1557

Warnings: none :)

Pairing: Billy Hargrove x Reader (female)

Summary: it was a warm summer day and Billy decided to come over after his morning shift at the local pool to surprise his girl with a sweet treat

You were laid out on your driveway, smiling at the warmth of the pavement soaking through your towel and reaching your skin.  It was a lazy Saturday morning where your house was still - no voices, no music, no people.  Your family had gone to visit your aunt’s new house, but you decided to stay home and enjoy having the days to yourself.  So far, you had played your music way too loud, watched every VHS tape on the shelves, and finished the book you had started reading a month ago.  Now, you were outside, enjoying the warm sun and the gentle breeze.  What a beautiful summer afternoon it had turned out to be.  So quiet and-

You heard a vague rumble in the distance that quickly got louder as a certain blue Camaro approached your house.

“Uh oh.”  If you were inside, you’d have said your peace just flew out the window.

You sat up and adjusted your sunglasses, watching as Billy exited the car wearing a completely open button down and his lifeguard trunks.  He smiled when he saw you and gave a little wave.

“Hello, gorgeous,” he said, taking a seat next to you on your tiny towel.

“Hi, handsome.  You save any lives today?”  With that, he rolled his eyes.  Billy loved his job because the power he was given was tremendous, but you had listened to him complain tons about how deaf the children in this town must be for him to have to repeat himself so many times.  “Come on, Bill, those glistening muscles must be good for something more than eye candy for the lonely housewives.”  A wink and a nudge with your elbow squeezed a little laugh from his lips.

“You’re the worst, you know that?”

“I know, but you still love me.”  He let out another gentle laugh and shook his head.

“I know, I must really be off my rocker.”

“Oh shut it, Hargrove.  I am a riot.  Now scooch over, you’re blocking my sun.”  You laid back down and closed your eyes, feeling even more content now that you had your favorite person to join you in one of your favorite activities.  You opened one eye a bit and saw Billy hadn’t moved an inch.  “Come on, I’m trying to catch some rays and you’re messing it up for me.”  You wiggled your foot under his butt and pushed, but he was too heavy.  You sighed and sat back up, “Come on, Billy, I’m glad you’re here and I would like you to be here… just over here instead.”  You patted the hot concrete beside you as an invitation for him to lay down.  “You know where the towels are.”

With a huff of exaggerated frustration, Billy rose from his spot on your towel and disappeared inside with a plastic bag in his hand, returning a couple minutes later, the bag replaced with a soft pink towel covered in illustrations of roses, lavender, and vines.  “This is the only one I could find, your family must have taken the others with them.”

You opened one eye and snuck a peek at the grumpy expression on your boyfriend’s face for having to use such a feminine towel.  “What’s wrong with it?  I think it matches you perfectly.”  It was hard to maintain a serious face and your mouth quirked up at the edges when he grumbled about how you thought you were so clever.  When he was set up next to you, you looked at him and got a real treat.  His lean, bronzed chest was stretched across the towel and had beads of sweat already forming from the heat of the sun.  His eyes were closed to avoid its blinding light and his dark lashes brushed his cheekbones.  You thought you were hot before, but you hadn’t felt anything yet.  It made your heart near bursting as you watched the lazy rise and fall of his chest and the pink lips he chewed on.  You sighed in content and laid down again, smiling to yourself and looking forward to this quiet time with him.

Boy were you wrong.  Not even five minutes later, Billy had rolled on his side to look at you and began telling you about every little kid at the pool who had bothered him during his shift (spoiler alert, there were a lot).  Finally, you had to interrupt him.  “I’m sorry, love, but I was hoping for some quiet time in the sun.  I’ve heard all about these kids before and they aren’t even that bad.”

“Not that bad?  If there weren’t parents around, I’d hop down from my chair and chase them out!  Those little shits know exactly how to get under my skin.”  Becoming more agitated to defend his annoyance of children, he sat up and scooted closer, once again blocking your sun.

“You knew what you were getting yourself into when you took this job, Billy.  You can’t have every child act like a perfect angel all the time… you know how Max and her friends are, what’s the big deal?  Let them run and if they fall, they’ll learn their lesson.  Now back up, you’re blocking my sun again.”

Ignoring your last request, he continued, “I’d love to see them all fall, but I’d get fired if I didn’t enforce the rules.  Besides, I don’t need a crying kid who has a skinned knee ‘cause then I’d have to bandage it.”

The only way to relax him was to agree, so that’s exactly what you did.  Then, he was quiet for a few minutes more before starting up again.  This time, though, instead of talking about work, he hummed quietly.  This turned into mumbling the words and somehow worked up to a full rock concert with air guitars, drums, the whole works.  Peace shattered again.  You swore this boy wouldn’t be able to sit still if you promised him $50 to do it.

Thankfully he was playful after his “lifeguarding sucks” rant and came over, singing the words in your ear and running his fingers up and down your sides, making you squirm.  You wiggled away and pushed his chest to create space between the two of you, but he only came back again.  This time, he was singing louder and straddling you.  “Stop, Billy, all I want is a nice tan.  You’re such a pain in the butt.  Take your show on the road.”  This caused him to paint a dramatic look of hurt on his face and put a hand to his chest.

“You wound me with those words, Y/N.  I am sorry my one-man band isn’t enough for you.  I’ll leave now and you won’t have to see me again.”  You snorted, sitting up and watching as he grabbed his pink towel and slowly began walking down the driveway.  Your face had a huge smile and you couldn’t help laughing as he swayed his hips widely and faked a cry.

“See you later,” you dragged out and he sent you one last look and said something that caused you to perk up.

“I guess I’ll grab your surprise from the freezer and take it with me.  You wouldn’t want it anyway.”  You stood and rushed down the driveway to stand in front of him, a coy smile now gracing his lips.

You squinted your eyes and poked his side.  “What surprise would that be?”

He kept the act going, “It’s gross anyway, I don’t know why I brought it.  It’ll go to waste and I-”

“Biilllyyyy, stop this.  What did you get me?”  Growing impatient, you grabbed his hands and begged.  “I’m sorry for banishing you from my sunbathing spot, pretty please show me what you got me?”  Finally, he relinquished and pulled you inside, the shade and air conditioning a sweet relief.  Not as sweet, however, as the treat your wonderful and thoughtful boyfriend brought you.

Mango Italian ice.

Your absolute favorite treat in the summer, which Billy knew, of course.  He spun around and dramatically showed you the pint he picked up on his way over from the pool, hoping to surprise you.  He sure did.

You gasped with adoration and surprise, “Billy, Thank you!  You’re the sweetest!”  With a quick kiss, you bounced around the kitchen, grabbing spoons and bowls, as well as waters before the both of you made yourselves comfortable on the couch.  Relaxed and drowsy from the sun, you enjoyed every bite of the sweet ice Billy bought you and hummed after each, appreciating the cold that traveled down your throat and into your stomach.

When you finished the last bite and licked the bowl clean, you set it down on the coffee table and snuggled up next to Billy, stretching your legs out next to his and enjoying a few moments of silence and the warm, tan skin of his chest.  “Thank you for that, Billy, I loved it.”  You propped yourself on your elbow and leaned down to give him a long kiss, enjoying how sweet he tasted.  He pulled back so your lips were barely grazing and whispered, “You taste like sunshine,” and kissed you once more, this time making sure to lick your lips.  Your cold tongue and sugar sweet lips were Billy’s favorite thing under the sun and he wasn’t afraid to show it.

Masterlist

[psychicwhisperscollectionstuff]

... Hands you my school project I worked way too hard on to you

Hello friends!  I’m going to be talking about my favorite childhood movie that still manages to hold true for me today: Rigoletto.  This movie has so many winning qualities and I really wish it was a more well-known movie, as I only had it because we were part of the “feature films for families” club at the right time.  (They mailed you a new VHS once a month).  It is good for so many reasons!  The music is unique and gorgeous, the editing masterful, and the story is an age-old tale (that I feel is easily forgotten) chock full of good morals and lessons vital to a child.  Even more, it’s told in a beautiful way through the lens of childhood innocence.  The whole story is seen with a contrast of adult and child perspectives, valuing both, and within its shroud of mystery that leaves the details up to interpretation, kids have room to see even more than what is there and use their imaginations.  The title itself is not the name of a character in the story, but of the fairytale read at the beginning of the movie.

The music in Rigoletto, all written by Kurt Bestor specially for this movie, is a kind of throwback to different, underappreciated eras. The cover too, with its operatic styled border.  Set in the 1930s during the Great Depression, it has a unique feel.  The songs are very diverse in their tones, but have a certain connectivity and flow about them.  Each one adds to the story in a unique way and the editing montages that go with some, specifically April Child, make them that much more moving and personal for the audience.  Some help us understand characters on a deeper level (especially since singing is part of the plot), some help increase emotional impact during key scenes, some bring heartbreak in how they predict coming scenes, and my favorite, Let Me In, serves as a summary from Bonnie’s perspective.  I’m playing one of the many great songs from this movie in the background, The Curse and then The Melody Within, the main themes for the movie overall.

The movie Rigoletto follows a community as it faces many changes.  An illusive man, Ribaldi, has moved to town and new, mysterious financial difficulties are arising, distressing the residents.  The main character, Bonnie Nelson, and her family are to be evicted from their home and the only way for them to keep it is if Bonnie makes a sacrifice of time in service to this newcomer.  It is the only collateral he will accept.  In time, her curiosity as well her gumption to do what is right lead her to look deeper into Ribaldi and what makes him beautiful, rather than ugly.  She hears what he can do as a singing teacher and longs to learn from him and as the movie progresses their friendship, her skills, and his kindness grow.  He befriends and helps the children of the town, but the adults still mistrust him and hate only grows in their hearts.

This conflict of love versus hate, open mindedness versus fear, the step it takes to go out of a comfort zone and make a change, this is what we are left to ponder.  The strength of the will of the one who looks deeper.  Even the cover displays this conflict, depicting both the beautiful refuge of Ribaldi’s home as well as the angry mob in the mist, as both images merge together in the center, meeting at the title of the movie and the image of Bonnie looking back forlornly, yet also with determination.  The intended theme is easy to see.

This movie teaches kids to look deeper and care about others, even when things get dicey.  It shows that one person’s kindness can unlock that of someone else’s, perhaps someone who has been often knocked down, and how important that can be.  Not only that, but it teaches kids how to cope with bad situations, with their emotions in a healthy way.  In seeing Ribaldi help all these kids with their issues, the movie speaks straight to us.  In talking to Porter, one of Bonnie’s friends who has issues at home, he says, “I think that you love your father.  And you hate the way you feel.  Change the way you feel.”  He goes on, stating that “Meanness isn’t strength.  Your father is not a strong man.  Not yet anyway. But who knows what tomorrow brings?  You mustn’t give up on him.  He needs the love of his family now just as you need his love, and someday you’ll both get what you need.”  This teaches a priceless lesson, not only for someone facing that, but any child.  Emotions are real.  And they suck sometimes.  But you have the power to be better.  To change the way you feel, even if it takes time, and to grow in the way you handle your struggles.  Strength is in gentleness, kindness- not anger.  Mercy is where we can find our peace.

Rigoletto teaches self-worth, bravery, true right and wrong, real strength, the beauty of loyal friendship, meaningful sacrifice and to always work to do more.  Watching it again, so many of my personal beliefs, morals, and ways of life have come directly from this movie and it means the world to me.  And not just me.  One of the things that made this movie great was its personal connection to its creator.  Joe Paur fought long and hard to make this movie what he intended (fun fact, he played Ribaldi), a tribute to his mother and the place she grew up in (it was even fimed there), and at a high cost.  Because of his determination he ended up with friction with nearly everyone on the team, even his own brother.  He left the movie business after this one, despite having written two, now still unpublished, sequels.  This movie was a passion project and it's evident.  Paur knew his vision was worth the sacrifice, just as Bonnie, and later Ribaldi as well, decided that their sacrifice is a small price to pay for those that they love.  We can see it in the product, Rigoletto is a timeless celebration of the things that make us human, especially in times of struggle, and I believe that it is priceless.

So I leave you with the wise words of Ribaldi, “There is nothing more mean and ugly in this world than to have a loving gift, a beautiful spirit, and a desire to give and share these things when there is no one to share them with.”

[unpack-my-heart]

@constantreaderfool @xandertheundead @tinyarmedtrex @violetreddie @mrs-vh @eds-trashmouth

The Tozier residence was nestled in the belly of a small hill at the edge of the village. It was small, rickety, and, in high winds, almost always looked like it was about to collapse. Despite this, though, the sounds of laugher coming from within the small house could be heard for what seemed like miles away. As Edward approached, three small children were playing with sticks in the plush grass, and Wentworth Tozier was chopping firewood with a large axe.

“Hello, boy!”

“Hello, Sir”

“How is the best alchemical apprentice this fine summers evening?”

“I am well, Sir, thank you, Sir”

“Come with news about my boy?”

“Um – well, in some way. I’ve come to ask if you could send Richard back with me, Paracelsus asks that –“

“What do you mean back with you? Is he not still at your workshop?”

“No, Sir, he left about four hours ago”

Wentworth Tozier stopped chopping wood, and gently threw the axe to the ground. He wiped the back of his hand across his glistening forehead.

“I haven’t seen Rich since this morning when we sent him over to Paracelsus. Why do you need him to return?”

“It’s nothing – I mean, it is definitely something but it is nothing to be concerned about. When Richard returns home if you could pass on my message I would be most grateful. Thank you, Sir” Edward babbled, before turning swiftly on his heels and marching down the road.

Wentworth Tozier shrugged, and continued to chop.

He is dead in a ditch.

He grew dizzy and fell off the bridge on his way home.

He succumbed to the illness and is now one with the Earth.

He’s ran off to fetch the chief constable to accuse Edward of witchcraft.

Various catastrophic scenarios swam around the murky soup of Edward’s brain like fish, darting in and out of his attention. Nervousness bubbled in his stomach like acid as he walked aimlessly around the village, wildly hoping that he’d bump into Richard, or spot him in one of the ale houses.

Richard wasn’t in any of the ale houses, nor was he in the church. He wasn’t lurking around the canal, and he wasn’t watch the fish swim in the parish pond.

He was nowhere, as if he’d vanished from the village entirely.

– X –

Sarah Blundy was minding her own business when a glittering light at the outermost edge of the forest caught her eye.

A tree.

A tree that … seemed to be gradually turning to gold.

The first few meters of the tree were solid gold, and more and more of the tree seemed to be turning to gold, as if the gold was consuming the bark, and eating the leaves.

Staring at this transforming tree, Sarah Blundy fainted.

– X –

After three days of searching, Edward gave up searching for Richard, resigning to the fact that wherever he was hiding, he did not want to be found.

However, three days after Richard had gone missing, Paracelsus shook Edward awake.

“Have you heard about the trees?”

“The trees?” Edward yawned, sitting half up in bed, the scratchy blanket falling around his waist.

“The golden trees!”

“Golden… trees?”

“Eddie, I love you like you are my own son but you are a fool,” Paracelsus scolded, lightly smacking Edward over the head.

“Oh, Hell! Richard!”

“Yes! Now you understand. Richard must have disappeared to take cover in the forest. I suppose it is hardly surprising. What this does mean, though, is that he is probably rather easy to find”

“And I suppose I must go to fetch him?”

“Who else would you send?”

“Perhaps… you?”

“Am I the one that gave the Tozier boy the powers of a mythical King?”

“… No, Sir”

“Who did give Richard the powers of a mythical King?”

“… Me, Sir”

“There, you have your answer”

“I will go and look at first light”

“Very good. The poor boy is likely to be scared out of his wits, so be gentle with him”

“Of course”

When Edward arose from his slumber several hours later, Paracelsus thrust several parchments at him.

“These will explain to Richard what I think has happened to him, and give him my personal reassurance that you are not a witch and he is not cursed. Hopefully they’ll convince him to go with you. Now, the first golden tree was spotted near the Cooke residence”

“The house with the broken chimney?”

“That’s the one. If you cannot find him, please do return before sundown. I do not want to have to come looking for you”

“Yes, Sir!”

Edward wolfed down his breakfast of a lump of cheese, two slices of bread and scrambled out of the workshop in less than half an hour. The walk to the edge of the forest was pleasant, the sun was rising towards the top of the heavens, and there was a light breeze moving the air just enough so that it wasn’t too hot. Eventually, the dusty path that winded through the village stopped abruptly, and an empty, lush field stretched on in front of him, a dense forest bordering the field at the opposite end. Edward hopped over the fence, and walked through the field. When he’d gotten about half way, he noticed a mass of people standing beneath an oppressively large, completely golden Oak tree.

Picking up the pace, Edward all but ran to join the people.

“Pardon me, Sir, but do you know what happened here?” Edward asked the nearest man.

“It’s the work of an angel, my lad. God is smiling down at us and he has sent us these miraculous golden trees as proof of his excellence. Praise Him! Rejoice in Him!”

“Thank you” Edward replied dutifully, moving to the front of the crowd to get a better look.

The golden tree at the edge of the forest was just one of many entirely golden trees in the forest, stretching back in a sea of shimmering metal as far as Eddie’s eyes could see.

One peculiar thing, though, was the fact that all of the trees were in a perfect line.

Richard must have come this way.

Without further delay, Edward pushed his was past the crowd and began walking down the path.

“Hey! Boy! You, HEY!”

“What do you think you are doing!”

“You cannot follow the sacred path!”

“Blasphemer!”

“Oh, He’s the alchemists apprentice. No wonder he’s defying God – TRAITOR!”

Edward ignored the frenzied shouts of the crowd, walked through the forest, following the trail of golden trees. The trail continued on for some time, in a perfectly straight line. The further into the forest he went, Edward started to notice the less gold the trees were. Some trees were gold except the very tops, and some trees only had golden trunks, the branches and leaves still illuminated in technicolour by the sun.

Odd.

Suddenly, the trail stopped.

The last tree in the trail was barely golden at all, only the bark a few inches off the ground had turned.

Odd.

The trail had stopped in a grassy clearing, long reeds rustling in the summer breeze. However, as Edward walked towards the centre of the clearing, he noticed that it wasn’t … all grass. There was a large patch of churned up mud, like someone had purposefully attacked the ground with some sort of tool, an axe perhaps. This was surely done on purpose, Edward mused, and recently, too. The mud had not solidified in the sun, and was still soft and malleable to the touch. Edward squatted in the dirt, and sifted it through his fingers. Tiny, blink-and-you’ll-miss-them blades of grass fell to the floor with a soft thud.

Grass doesn’t thud.

Edward looked down, and on the floor by his feet lay five golden blades of grass. The only golden blades of grass in the clearing, Edward noticed, as he scanned about.

Odd.

Edward picked up the golden blades of grass and weighed them in his fingers.

“There must have been more of this,” he mused aloud.

There was no reason that Richard should have specifically chosen to turn these few blades of grass into gold, not when he’d turned dozens of trees to gold on his journey to this clearing. He must have turned great clumps of grass into metal, and someone must have taken the rest.  

Edward looked at the mud. Firmly indented in the soft surface were footprints.

Huge, wide footprints. Footprints that looked vaguely human, but the sheer width of them sent shivers of fear down Edward’s spine.

Scattered among these inhumanly large footprints, though, were footprints that surely must have been made by a regularly sized human. These footprints disappeared suddenly after the patch of mud. If these footprints belonged to Richard, it appeared that he had walked to this clearing, to this exact point, and then vanished entirely. The larger footprints did not disappear, though, and Edward followed the winding trail further into the forest. When the trail showed no sign of ending, and the sun was hanging heavy and bloated in the sky, threatening to disappear behind the hills, Edward decided to return to the workshop to gather supplies.

“Who has taken you, Richard?” Edward asked the air that just wailed in answer.

– X –

“Another golden sculpture?” Edward asked, sceptically, “Where are you getting these from?”

“From a master sculptor in Wandermere, my good Sir. His hands are guided by the lord, and he creates these golden trinkets as an expression of his faith”

The man stood before Edward was pale, and unfortunately deformed, with a large, bulbous forehead and pointed nose. He stood several feet taller than Edward, but walked with a hunch, bones creaking under his pallid, and thin looking skin. Blue-ish grey veins snaked across the merchants arms, as he lifted box upon box out of his small cart. He lifted beautiful golden chalices with perfectly etched intricate patterns, golden knives with solid metal sheaths, and even, to Edward’s curiosity, intricately carved golden books out of the boxes, and displayed them on a small table. The books, in particular, piqued Edward’s interest. They were perfectly rendered in smooth, faultlessly thin sheets of metal. The golden books are … too perfect. Too perfect to have been crafted by the flawed hands of man using tools and manual labour.

“So you say these books were crafted by a goldsmith, by hand?”

“Yes”

“He was able to make this many in such a short space of time?”

The stranger stuttered, eyes flashing with a curious kind of panic.

“As I said, he is a master sculptor”

“How did he get the text so neatly onto the golden leaf? It looks as if it was drawn with just a quill and ink, not etched with cumbersome tools”

“Enough with the incessant questioning,” the stranger snapped, snatching the golden book from Edwards grasp. “Do you wish to purchase anything, or not?”

“I do not think I do, thank you”

The stranger said nothing, but his lip curled wolfishly, revealing a set of unnaturally sharp teeth. Teeth that would look more at home in the mouth of a beast than a man. Edward could feel his blood turn cold. Wordlessly, the stranger began to stack the boxes back into his small cart, before clambering into it himself. The small, morose looking donkey attached to the cart heaved itself onto its feet, before slowly plodding away, out of the village and down the dusty track towards the golden trees.

Without thought, Edward followed them.

– X –

“Can I come out, yet?”

“No! It is not safe, a mortal could see you”

“But it smells like something has died under here”

“You are smelling your own breath”

“Shut your mouth, Patrikos, or I shall stopper it with your own heart”

“Children! All of you. No better than mortal children”

“I still do not understand why you are in charge”

“Erebus decreed it, Victilios, I have told you of this before”

“We have not seen Him for centuries, is there no opportunity for a change in power? Perhaps he would not notice”

“Do not question His motivations or he may smite you down. Not that I would complain, of course”

“Henrion, have we fed the Midas child in recent days?”

“I do not remember, Reginas, though he has not died yet so we must have”

“DO NOT TOUCH ME WITH YOUR WITHERED HAND YOU KNOW HOW IT DISTURBS ME”

– X –

The small cart bounced along the dusty track, past the grassy clearing where Edward had found the golden blades of grass, and journeyed deep into the forest. The trees became dense enough to block out the sun. Only one man sat upon the cart, the stranger who had been selling the golden wears in the village for several days, but Edward could hear four voices floating through the air as he followed the cart several feet behind.

Nimbly, Edward darted from tree to tree, never taking his eye from the small cart. They continued on for several hours, and Edward's legs grew wearier and wearier, until, without warning, the cart vanished. Edward watched in horror as it appeared to be swallowed whole by darkness, as it disappeared down into ... nothingness.

After waiting for several seconds, Edward sprang forward. He ran towards where the cart had disappeared, and found himself face to face with the entrance to an underground passage way. Edward stared into the void, and the void stared back at him.

[weaversweek]

Perfect Pop 4b - Debbie Gibson

Earlier, we covered Debbie Gibson’s hit career, in 1988 and 1989.

Anything Is Possible screamed the third album in early 1991. Turned out that anything was possible, except a Debbie Gibson comeback. An interview with Phillip Schofield presaged the title track coming out as a single .... and stalling at 51. Ver Dumper says "hello, glad you’re in me".

There was a lot of good work on the album. One of the best is "Another brick falls", clearly influenced by Elton John and Billy Joel's "Stormfront" album. Here's what Debbie told Billboard in 2018:

I am still not quite sure about why I was writing about adult stress at such a young age, but I now constantly can relate to the idea that just when you have one piece of life's puzzle figured out, something else goes wrong, and nothing is ever quite all in sync at one time. I really enjoy delivering it live now with way more life experience behind it.

Here's a performance from 2018.

From here, Debbie took a surprise turn to musical theatre, Éponine in Les Miserables on Broadway, and then to London in 1993.

Debbie had been cast as Sandy in the stage musical of Grease, a massive West End production with all the hype that entails. And all the pressure from the 1978 film: Debbie and her co-lead Craig McLachlan could never be Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, and were right to play the parts their own way. Sandy's big number is "Hopelessly devoted to you".

Debbie did a lot of promotion for this show, including an interview on This Morning. All the years on tour playing Pictionary ensured Debbie was a whizz for Grease Week on Win Lose or Draw with Shane Richie.

Debbie also worked with Shane on Run the Risk, and particularly enjoyed being a white wolf for a hot minute. Furry 'nough.

Back in the States, the album Think With Your Heart came out in 1995, firmly for the Radio 2 audience, and coming about 25 years before the fashion to pair a great vocalist with a philharmonic orchestra. Dance-pop song "Your secret" had some regional success.

There was a jukebox musical Electric Youth, Belle in theatre's Beauty and the Beast. @matgb​ reminds me of a crappy straight-to-VHS movie with Tiffany and some bad CGI, which I must watch on the 30th of this month. Debbie went on Ballroom With The B-List, and was second out.

Almost inevitably, there’s been a Christmas album. Guess what - it’s a good one! Winterlicious was my favourite festive set from 2022, and it has the new year song "Cheers!". It's in memory of Debbie's late mother, the one who jokingly threatened to cut off the phone because Debbie talked too much.

[theladyofdeath]

Friday Night Lights {ACOTAR}

Chapter 1

Summary: Inspired by the series Friday Night Lights. In a town that is obsessed with football, a group of teenagers are glorified for what they bring to the field. But what the people of Velaris don’t realize is that there is a lot more to life than football, and it’s not always pretty.

Revolves around Cassian, Nesta, Elain, Lucien, Azriel, Morrigan, Amren, Feyre, and Rhysand.

*Warning: This fic deals with sensitive material.

*Note: A chapter will be posted every Wednesday.

Click here for previous chapters.

Author’s Note: Hey, y’all. Once again, I’m posting earlier. Earlier is better than later. I was meant to post tomorrow, but I got called in to work double, and I didn’t want to be too exhausted when I got home (which I will be!)! So, I hope you enjoy chapter one. I’m so excited to finally get the ball moving on this fic! Great things are coming. I would love to know what you all think. :)

Enjoy. <3

“Why are you nervous? You’re gonna do great. I promise. When I come pick you up later, you’ll be thanking me for bringing you to school.”

Alana, at only five years old, rolled her eyes. “You’re ridiculous.”

“I know,” Cassian agreed, handing his little sister her pink, glittery backpack. “But I love you, and that’s all that matters.”

Despite herself, Alana smiled. “Fine. But if I hate it, I’m going to punch you in the face when you pick me up.”

“You’ll have to catch me first,” he winked, before rising to his feet from where he was kneeling in front of her. “Alright. You’ve got your backpack, your lunchbox – which is filled with a delicious PB&J, by the way – and a sweet unicorn notebook. Now, go kick ass.”

“Shhhh,” she scolded. “You’re not allowed to say A-S-S. You’re going to get in trouble.”

Cassian quickly covered his mouth, and tried his best to look theatrically apologetic. “You’re right, I’m sorry. See? You’re already smarter than me. School is good for you. Now, go. Learn. And I promise I’ll be here right after you get out. Okay?”

She nodded, but her smile gently faded as she took a step back and began to walk toward her classroom.

“Lana?”

She glanced back at him over her shoulder.

He gave her a quick thumbs-up. “You’ve got this.”

It wasn’t until she stepped into the classroom that Cassian loosened his breath. He had done everything in his power that morning to make her feel confident – he did her hair and topped it off with a beautiful, ivory bow, surprised her with a new dress that he had found almost brand new at the thrift store, and made her one of his famous PB&J sandwiches that she would beg him for almost every night for dinner.

Now, he could only hope for the best.

It was only kindergarten.

Cassian had not neglected to realize how parents looked at him as they made their way out of the school. He was young, and would have had to have Alana when he was only thirteen. But he was used to the judgements. He was basically her only caregiver, thanks to their no-good mother.

Alana wasn’t meant to be born. Cassian was amazed she had even made it through childbirth with how much his mom smoke and drank with her in the womb.

Thirteen. He was thirteen when she was born. And he had taken care of her since, in every way that he could.

He had fumbled around a lot, at first. It’s not like he had a prime example of how a parent, or a caregiver, should act. His mother was a bum and his father left when he was five. His grandmother was beautiful, in every way, but she had begun to show signs of Alzheimer’s when he was only eleven, and was put in a home, where she had been ever since.

So, thirteen-year-old Cassian had read a lot of “What to expect when you’re expecting” and hoped for the best. He had stolen a lot of formula, and used a small blanket as a diaper, but they had survived.

Their mother wasn’t always bad. She went through phases. Every now and then, she would say she was trying to get better. She would stop, for a small amount of time, and would care for her children to the best of her ability, which wasn’t saying much. Then, she would relapse.

Every time.  

As the bell rang, Cassian cursed, earning even more hateful glances from passing parents, as he ran out of the school building, and across the street to Velaris High.

He had to hold up his jeans as he sprinted – his leather belt that he had worn for years had ripped that morning – and tried not to trip over his untied, bulky boots as he practically fell into homeroom.

Everyone stopped and looked at him, which he lazily smiled at in return. “Good morning.”

Some of the girls waved, and giggled under their breath. It was Rhysand who stood up in the back corner, his own sweatshirt that read Velaris High Football mirroring Cassian’s. “Don’t worry, Cass. You made it here before the teacher.”

Cassian was overjoyed when he found out he was having Helion for homeroom for the second year in a row. He was casual, probably way too casual for a teacher, and was never on time.

As he sat at a desk in the back, Cassian slapped Azriel across the back of the head. “Where were you last night?”

“Oh, uh,” he hesitated, and his cheeks stained crimson. “Nowhere. I just…..didn’t quite make it. Sorry.”

There was a bonfire at one of their teammate’s houses, welcoming in the new school year. Cassian and Rhysand had made it an hour before coming to the conclusion that Azriel wasn’t showing up.

Alana had stayed with Rhysand’s mother and younger sister, whom she adored.

Cassian leaned in closer, slightly concerned. “Things going okay?”

“Yeah,” Azriel answered, quickly. “Yeah, I was just tired. Been putting in extra hours in the weight room.”

Cassian nodded, although he wasn’t convinced. Azriel fell into the pit of darkness and despair more than the rest of them did, and although he usually pulled himself out, he had a history.

“Hey, losers.”

“Ah, Morrigan,” Cassian sighed, turning his head to find the blonde beauty standing behind him. “Oh, how I’ve missed you.” She ruffled his hair, and he pushed her hand away. “You’re going to ruin the manbun. It’s an art, Mor.”

Cassian had known Mor just as long as he had known the others, since elementary school. He and Mor used to have a thing, if one could even call it that, but they ended up being just friends. Their so-called relationship felt too forced, too unnatural.

She was beautiful, though. That much was obvious. It didn’t help that every boy in that testosterone filled school looked at her as if she were the only girl in the hallways.

Before Mor could come up with yet another cunning response, the door flew open and Helion stepped in, but he wasn’t alone.

Cassian swore Azriel sucked in his breath.

“Hello, class, good morning! I’m sorry I’m late, but I was showing around our new student.” As Helion spoke, everyone was looking at the girl behind him. She was fairly short, her dark, brown hair in long, loose curls. She wore a floral sundress as she stood with a smile on her face. “Students, welcome Elain Archeron. Do we have any volunteers to show her to her first class this morning?”

Cassian eyed Azriel, and gave him a wink, but Azriel just rolled his eyes and went back to his doodling.

“I will.”

Ugh, Cassian thought. Lucien.

“Mr. Vanserra,” Helion smiled. “Perfect. Elain, if you’d like to take a seat next to Lucien, he will guide you through your first day. I hope it’s everything you want it to be.”

“Total shit?” Mor mumbled. “Because that would be an improvement from last year for me.”

Cassian grinned as Elain thanked Helion, and sat next to Lucien.

Azriel’s eyes followed her from underneath his dark bangs until she took her seat.

 Feyre was taking P.E. for her first period of the day, and she found it to be a horrendous twist of fate. They wouldn’t let her take art, because she was required to have two physical education credits to graduate, and she hadn’t taken any at her old school, Lowell High. So, she was spending her morning in P.E. and her afternoon in weight lifting.

Weight. Lifting.

Sighing, she stood in the gym at 8:20 in the morning in her royal blue gym shorts and t-shirt that read VHS Physical Education.

She longed for her paint brushes.

It wasn’t that she was in bad shape. She was actually pretty fit. Although she considered herself more of the artistic type, Feyre would take a jog every day before school to escape the morning wrath of her father.

As she watched the others that would be in her class meander into the gym, Feyre sighed. She was exhausted. The night before, her first night sleeping in Velaris, had been an adventure of sorts. 

Alis was nice. So were here boys. But if Feyre had learned anything, it was not to trust anyone. She could hardly sleep as she kept one eye open, glued to the door, which she had locked before the three sisters turned their light out.

Elain had thought she was ridiculous, and Feyre expected nothing less. Elain looked for the good in everyone, and Feyre did the opposite.

She looked for the worse.

She was still looking for something bad in Alis, but Feyre was sure she would find it. People always showed their true colors eventually.

“New girl?”

Feyre spun around to find the most beautiful male she had ever seen.

He was tall, and not wearing the same gym uniform that she was. He was wearing long, black sweatpants and a hoodie that read Velaris High Football. His violet eyes were in deep contrast to his pushed back black hair.

Feyre quirked a brow. “Is that how you greet everyone?”

“Only the beautiful ones,” he smirked.

Feyre rolled her eyes, and turned her back to him.

“Don’t harass her, Rhys,” another male voice appeared behind her. It wasn’t light, though. It was hard. Cruel. Annoyed.

She turned, her curiosity getting the best of her. Rhys was looking at a new boy, nearly the same height with shoulder-length blonde hair. His piercing green eyes were watching Feyre.

“Don’t be a dick, Tam,” Rhys, the first one with the violet eyes, shot back.

Feyre took in the two males, their stances as they looked at each other. There was tension there. There was history.

“Don’t listen to either of them.” She hadn’t even realized there was a girl standing next to her until she spoke, sending Feyre jolting in the air. “Sorry, new girl. Didn’t mean to scare you. Just came to tell you not to pay attention to these two dimwits.”

She was nearly a foot shorter than Feyre, with her chin length black hair and almond-shaped eyes.

“Who are you?” Feyre asked, because the girl had yet to look at her.

“Amren, no need to scare the living shit out of the new girl.” It was Rhys. The boy with the violet eyes.

Those damn violet eyes.

“Will everyone stop calling me that?” Feyre snapped. “It’s Feyre.”

There was silence, and then, “That’s a weird name.”

I hate this school, she thought to herself, as the gym teacher strolled out onto the middle of the floor.

He was short and bald with gym shorts on that were way too short, and a whistle hanging around his neck. “Laps! Now!”

Yes. She was most definitely going to hate it.

 Rhysand hated the locker room. It smelled atrocious, and there were clothes and mother-knows what else in some of those lockers that had been there since Rhysand started Freshman year.

“Tamlin intends on being a dick again this year, it seems.”

Rhysand chuckled at Cassian’s words, although they rang true. He was thankful for Amren, who came and broke the building tension. If Rhysand knew Tamlin, which he did, he knew his first comment was the first of many that he had planned.

“Tam is incapable of not being a dick,” Rhysand sighed. “He’s too much like his father.”

Cassian whistled in agreement as he lifted his damp gym shirt over his head. “Feyre looks a lot like the new girl from homeroom. Think they’re related?”

At mention of Elain, Azriel peeked over his shoulder.

Rhysand shrugged. “Maybe.”

“She seems nice. Feyre.”

“Really?” Rhysand scoffed. “She called me a prick every five minutes for the last hour.”

“That’s why I like her,” Cassian grinned.

“Maybe you shouldn’t have kept trying to talk to her, or flirt, or whatever you were trying to do,” Azriel suggested. “She’s new. She’s walking unknown territory, she may need space.”

Rhysand blinked. “Thank you for the advice, wise Azriel.”

Azriel rolled his eyes before returning to his deodorant.

“Have you twats heard from Mor today?”

Fury settled in the pit of Rhysand’s stomach as he turned to see Eris standing on the other side of him.

“For some reason, she likes you all,” he continued, when no one said anything. “Although, I’ve tried to convince her otherwise.”

“Not texting you back?” Cassian asked, in that dangerous, witty way of his. “You should probably take that as a hint.”

Eris laughed, unamusingly. “I give her much more than most guys can. Have you heard from her or not?”

No one answered.

Rhysand had walked with her to school that morning, actually. She seemed distant, like something was off. But he knew her. He knew that she didn’t want to talk about it, that she would bring it up when she was ready.

And if she wasn’t talking to her boyfriend, perhaps it had something to do with him.

Eris shook his head before backing away. “Idiots. I’ll have to give Mor another talk about who she chooses to hang out with.”

Rhysand put his arm on Cassian’s shoulder, because he could see the anger begging to be unleashed from his friend’s inner being.

“He’s an asshole,” Azriel mumbled. “He’s trying to piss you off, don’t let him get to you.”

Cassian gave him a curt not before reaching into his locker and pulling out his torn-up jeans.

Rhysand had known Eris and his brother, Lucien, since elementary school. They were polar opposites, but unfortunately both revolved around crowds that Rhysand couldn’t stand.

“Why do you bother with her, anyway?” one of Eris’ boys asked from further down the row of the lockers, loudly, so that the three Illyrians could hear.

Cassian’s hands slowed as he tugged his jeans up over his boxers, but Azriel had stopped completely.

Rhysand knew what was coming. He had been in this situation before with Eris. He liked the drama. He liked the tension. He liked the fight, and Rhysand hated him for all of those things.

“Ignore him,” Rhysand muttered, pulling on his hoodie.

“Because she’s hot,” Eris said, turning to Rhysand and giving him a conniving grin. “She may be a dumb blonde, but she’s good in bed –“

Rhysand had just pulled his hoodie over his face when he saw Cassian, jeans still unbuttoned, flying down the rows of lockers before grabbing Eris by the neck of his shirt and pinning him up against the cool, red metal.

The word stop didn’t make it out of Rhysand’s mouth before Cassian’s fist collided with Eris’ jaw, then his nose.

Eris was just as big as Cassian, but Rhysand often forgot how brutal Cassian could be. He was a gentle spirit, but he had lived a rough life. He had learned how to stand up for himself, and his sister. He could keep himself in check most of the time, was good at keeping his cool, but there were certain things he would not take.

Degrading women? Offending those he loved? Those were his biggest ticking points.

And he loved Mor.

As blood trickled over Eris’ mouth, Azriel and Rhysand were at Cassian’s back, trying to pull him off.

Coach B, who most likely had heard the noise of boys hollering with excitement from within his office in the back of the locker room, came around the corner and took in the scene.

The football coach’s big, burly hands grabbed Cassian’s arm and pulled him off his opponent. “What the hell is going on in here? It’s the first day of school, and you two are already acting like savages? Vanserra, get dressed and see the nurse. Rhysand, Azriel, get to second period. Nazari…” he looked at Cassian and shook his head. Disappointed, but not surprised. “My office. Now.”

  Elain wandered through the crowded hallways with Lucien at her side.

“So,” he cleared his throat, glancing at her with russet eyes. “What do you think so far?”

They mostly had the same schedule, which Elain was thankful for. She does okay in new situations, in unknown territory – at least better than Feyre – but, it was nice to have a guide for the day.

A handsome one, at that.

It wasn’t that Lucien was the most handsome guy she had ever seen, but there was something about him that made Elain’s heart feel a little lighter. His red hair was perfectly sculpted, all back from his clear complexion. Clear, except for the light scar that ran from his forehead to his cheek.

He was dressed nicely, too, which had always been something Elain liked in a boy. His blue jeans fitted him nicely, paired with a screen tee that had an old, vintage camera on it.

“Well,” Elain sighed, “history was okay. No one’s looked at me too strangely, and I haven’t gotten shoved into a locker yet. I can’t say it’s all that bad.”

Lucien smiled. “Well, that’s good to hear. Next, we have Algebra. Then, you have your creative class. What did you sign up for?”

Elain gasped. She had forgotten to ask this morning when she had arrived. “I haven’t signed up for anything yet. I completely forget –“

“No worries. You’ve still got time. You should sign up for yearbook, that’s where I go. The group is really fun…..I think you’d like it.”

She gestured to his t-shirt. “Photographer?”

Lucien laughed. “Is it that obvious?”

Elain grinned. “That’s cool. I would like to see your pictures sometime.”

Lucien’s smile became gentler. “I would like that, too.”

A dark, hooded figure ran into Lucien’s shoulder.

“Oh,” the boy turned. “Sorry.”

It was the boy from homeroom. Azriel, she thought his name was.

The sight of him captivated her. He was dressed in black, his eye-length hair peeking out of his hood. There was something about him, something haunting…..like shadows dancing around his being.

“Watch it,” Lucien snapped, his entire demeanor changing.

Elain glanced back and forth between the two boys, suddenly feeling uncomfortable in the middle of them.

“I apologized,” Azriel replied, clipped, before turning his back to the pair and walking away.

“I would stay away from him if I were you,” Lucien said, once he had walked further down the hall, into the sea of students.

“Why?” Elain asked.

“He’s just….different. Broody. Never smiles. Kinda creepy.”

Elain nodded, although she wasn’t so sure.

She had a feeling she wouldn’t be able to stay away from the boy with the shadows.

 Cassian sat, still shirtless, staring at a plaque that read Coach Bryaxis Bell.

He hated his name, so they all called him Coach B. The plaque typically made Cassian laugh, typically had him spewing jokes like it was his job.

But not today.

Coach B shook his head from the other side of his desk. “Cassian……You could get expelled for this, do you realize that?”

Cassian didn’t answer.

Coach B shook his head. “You probably broke his nose. I need him on the defensive line –“

“I’m sorry, okay? I lost it for a minute. But he was being a prick –“

“The hallways are filled with idiots, are you going to punch every single one of them?”

Cassian stayed silent, then shook his head.

After tossing Cassian a spare t-shirt, Coach B sighed. “How’s your mom?”

Cassian shrugged the shirt on, then shook his head. “Don’t know. Haven’t seen her in a few days. Since she came home drunk off her ass and passed out in the middle of the hallway.”

Coach B watched him curiously. “Do you think she’s okay?”

“Who gives a shit,” Cassian snapped, then felt bad.

Coach B was trying to help. Cassian remembered how terrified he was of the big, burly coach his freshman year. He looked like something from Cassian’s nightmares. But, over the past four years, he had grown to like the man. He had become, in some strange way, a friend.

“She goes away like this every now and then. She always comes back.” Then Cassian added, “Unfortunately.”

“Well,” Coach B sighed, just as he always did when he was disappointed. “I’m going to give you one month’s detention.”

“What?” Cassian exploded. “Seriously?”

“Care for expulsion instead?” When Cassian shook his head, Coach B continued, “Don’t worry about Alana. I’ll send Rhys to get her from school.”

He must’ve seen the horror in Cassian’s eyes. He was all she had. Alana would be waiting for him when the final bell rang, and he would never come.

“She’ll be right by my side until you get to practice, just like always,” Coach B promised. “But I have to punish you. As much as I think Eris is an ass, violence on school grounds is unacceptable.”

Cassian tried to smile. “Says the head football coach.”

Coach B chuckled. “Last time I checked, they don’t allow nose shots in football, either.”

Cassian grabbed his late-pass from Coach B and entered the hallways just after the second bell rang. It was day one of his senior year, and he had already gotten detention. As he ran his fingers along the cool lockers, he found himself wondering if colleges took a hard look at how many detentions an applicant received throughout high school.

Because he was sure he was sitting at the top of the list.

Then again, he couldn’t go to college, could he? He had to stay for Alana. He couldn’t leave her there, by herself. Even if he took classes at Velaris, how would that work? He heard that freshmen had to live on campus. He couldn’t do that.

He couldn’t leave his little sister with their mother.

Alana deserved better than a mother couldn’t care less about her.

Then again, she deserved better than a brother who couldn’t control his temper, too.

Cassian paused at his locker, and hung his head.

  Nesta tried her best not to fiddle with her thumbs as she sat in the school office, waiting to be called in for her first day at work.

She had graduated high school at seventeen, and found herself at Velaris University the next Autumn. Now, she was nineteen and halfway through her academic journey, well on her way to being a teacher. Until then, she figured she would try and get herself into the local school district.

And she had.

It was a job with little pay, but she didn’t care. It would lead to bigger things. Greater things.

“Miss Archeron?”

Nesta shot to her feet once her name was called, and brushed down on her pencil skirt although there were no wrinkles. She greeted the headmaster with a smile as she reached out her hand toward his. “Good morning, Mr. Collins. Nice to see you again.”

“You too, Miss Archeron. I’m glad to have you on board here. I’d heard your sisters started here this morning.”

“They did,�� she said, as they walked into his office and took a seat. “I’m sure they’re loving it.”

Mr. Collins gave Nesta a cunning smile as he sat on the opposite side of his desk. He was young, at least for a headmaster, probably in his early forties. His hair was dark, with the slightest hints of grey in his mustache. His pale skin was in perfect contrast to his green eyes.

“Well, Miss Archeron, I guess we should get to work,” he said, handing her a file of papers. “You will be an assistant and aide for the office, as you know. I was also hoping you wouldn’t mind sitting in on detentions.”

Nesta’s hand stilled, midway to grabbing the files from him. “Detention?”

“Yes, it will be for an hour after school. We will pay you, of course. That won’t be an issue, will it?”

“No sir,” she said, although hesitantly. “No, that won’t be an issue at all.”

His grin was almost scary as he replied, “Good.”

Chapter 2 will be posted on Wednesday, January 10.

[lepus-arcticus]

20.

The larkspur rises in spikes from the garden, blooming rich and blue as twilight. Missy, in all of her half-baked witchy wisdom, used to say the flowers provided protection from evil spirits, that they symbolized true love. Rich, considering that larkspurs were a deadly poison, carrying highly toxic alkaloids that killed gourmandizing free-range cattle by the paddock every spring. 1501 Larkspur Lane was aptly named. A place for spirits, a rancid core of death wrapped up in a pretty story about eternal love.  She can’t help but think that Mulder dragged her out there on Christmas Eve to distract her from thoughts of Emily. She loathed to imagine that he felt sorry for her, that he’d plot a night of cheap thrills for her benefit, as if she were some wilting rose, incapable of living with the weight of her grief.  Then again, maybe it hadn’t been a distraction after all. Maybe there really was a part of Mulder that wanted to bind his soul to hers forever - he was a romantic at heart, and she could see how the tragic lyricism of a murder-suicide would appeal to him.  If only he knew the options. If only he knew how often the question had rested in her mouth, squatting on the flat of her tongue like a toad. This is how we do eternity, Mulder. We create life. The most permanent of intimacies, the two of us unified in chromosomes, stitched together in strands of DNA.  Scully sighs and turns over in bed, resigning herself to sleeplessness. The leftover buzz of fear bristles through her veins, and she thinks of blood, of betrayal, of the fireplace still warm. Maurice and Lyda, trapped in that house... but it was all in her head. It had to be. A mutual hallucination, maybe brought on by some unknown environmental contaminant, mold in the walls, or perhaps by her compromised emotional state... She heaves another weary breath into her chest, glancing at the clock. 4 AM. Screw it. It’s Christmas, damn it, and on Christmas, you should be with the one you love.  Mulder is happy to see her.  -  They trade sheepish apologies and hungry looks, packages in festive paper. Beside him on the couch, she rips into hers with abandon - Mulder’s rare gifts are always puzzling, always a challenge, more of an experience than a thing in itself. They’re extensions of him and all of his complexity, like little pieces of his soul.  She pops the plastic lid off of the cardboard tube, and shakes out a tightly-packed roll of newsprint, flicking her eyes up at Mulder in the process. He’s watching her, his own gift half-unwrapped in his hands. She digs through the nest of paper, flirting - “Hmm... let me guess, a replica of an ancient ritualistic phallus?”-” and then she finds it, and the breath is stolen from her lungs.  A spyglass, very old, but in beautiful condition. Scully blinks slowly and runs her fingers along the smooth brassy curve of it, transfixed by the craftsmanship, the history. Holding it aloft, she extends the draw and examines the maker’s mark, smelling the sweet scent of old metal. Her thoughts wheel, trying to eke out the deeper meaning, but she stops herself. She’d rather savour the challenge, turn it over in her mind for days, extract the message slowly, like fine oil. 

“It’s wonderful,” she breathes, and he beams down at her in relief. “You like it?” he asks, and she brings one of her hands up to his jaw, thumbing at the corner of his canted smile. He presses his lips to her knuckle. “I love it. Now open yours.” He finishes shredding the wrapping paper, uncovering a worn VHS tape, the cover faded. His head juts forward, jaw agape. 

“Holy shit, Scully, Destination Inner Space? I’ve been looking for this for -”

“- years, I know, so now you can shut up about it -” 

“How did you find -”

“- Oh, you know, Langley knew a guy who knew a guy...” 

He sets the tape on the coffee table and cups his palms around her cheeks, kissing an eyebrow, the bridge of her nose. “You little...” he says through gritted teeth, and pulls her into a long and elaborate kiss. His hot breath is in her mouth, his fingers locking into the hair at the back of her neck. She flickers her tongue against his ripe bottom lip, panting, giddy with exhaustion and leftover adrenaline.  It swiftly becomes absolutely essential that he be inside of her. She breaks from him, gets up clumsily and stands between his legs, shrugging her coat down her arms and tossing it over to the chair. Mulder gets savvy, grinning, shifting his hips and unhooking his belt as she shimmies out of her trousers and unbuttons her shirt. He wrestles his cock out of his jeans, and she bends to swirl her tongue around the head of it before slinging her knees around his hips. “God, yes,” he growls, clutching at her hipbones, pulling her down.  The stretching fullness of him is crucial, life-affirming, and Scully remembers how a close encounter with death is often their most powerful aphrodisiac. She sinks all the way down onto him, squeezing her muscles, leaning her mouth to his and chasing his tongue. They ride out the urgency of it in a slow, symbiotic grind.  After a few long and delicious minutes, they begin to lose steam. Scully rests her head against Mulder’s chest, listening to the thud of his heart.  He strokes the length of her thigh. “We can finish this later, hey?” he mumbles. “I think we’re both a bit tired.” 

“Mmm.” 

“You, uh, gonna be at your mom’s all day?” 

“Yeah,” she says, nuzzling her nose into the neck of his t-shirt, suddenly unable to imagine the day without him. “...Come with me.” He smooths his hands over her back, silent, and her stomach pitches. 

“I don’t wanna ruin your family Christmas, Scully. Bill hates me.” She considers this, pressing her lips sulkily against his Adam’s apple. “C’mon, Mulder. You shouldn’t be alone on Christmas. Mom won’t mind. And if you can break out of a gulag with a homemade shiv, you can handle Bill.” He runs his nails down her bare ass, scratching her lightly. 

“Mmmm. You really liked that, didn’t you. Remember how... you pulled me into that airport bathroom...? Horny little thing.” He grabs her hips and tugs them forward, pressing himself up against the sweet spot inside of her as she nibbles at the rough of his stubble. “Alright, G-woman, stop biting me. I’ll come. Just let me grab a quick shower.”   - She gets herself back into her clothes and finger-combs her hair, flipping through one of his old National Geographics. There’s a good article on the Capuchin catacombs in Palermo, and she’s studying the mandible of a mummified friar when the phone rings. The machine picks up, and then a soft, smoky, familiar voice fills the room. 

“Hello, Fox. It’s me.” Heat creeps up her neck, and she snaps her head around and stares at the phone. “I guess you’re not up yet. You mentioned the last time we spoke that you didn’t have any plans for Christmas... I just... wanted to say that you’re welcome to come over if you’ve got nowhere to be today. Or I could come to your place. We could get Chinese, watch Plan 9. Like the old days. Just... let me know. You know where to reach me.” There’s a dizzying blaze of hatred within her, and even though she knows she shouldn’t, even though it’s childish and jealous and petty, Scully leans over, presses number 7, and deletes the message. Mulder emerges from the bedroom, his hair wet and spiky, tugging down a handsome knit green sweater over his t-shirt. Scully throws the magazine onto the coffee table, collects her spyglass, and walks over to him with purpose. She kisses him hard, the kiss of a woman who knows what’s hers. When she pulls back, his eyes are questioning, amused. “Is it the sweater?” he chuckles. “Hey, who was on the phone?” 

“Wrong number,” she says mildly. “C’mon, Mulder. We’re going to be late.”

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