#i already know a few things like what happened to harper and a lot ab quinni

[rotturn]

oh also i started hea.rtbre.ak hi.gh

[luthienne]

Hi dear, do you have any good words on emotional courage?

hi my love, you can check out this post and this post; here are a few more:

“I know a lot about pain… and I know it is bad for people, eats away the spirit, but how about courage, what is it for if not to use when needed?”

Martha Gellhorn, Selected Letters 

“This is in the end the only kind of courage that is required of us: the courage to face the strangest, most unusual, most inexplicable experiences that can meet us.”

Rainer Maria Rilke, Letters to a Young Poet 

“You don’t realize it, perhaps, but you are turning these delusions and illusions of the past into criminal things. Relinquish everything. Stay in bed until you feel so shock full of energy, hope, courage that you bounce out of abed. You can only aid the world–if you still believe the world needs our individual aid–by retaining your faith in life. Your body may be weak, but I know you still have wings.”

Henry Miller, A Literate Passion: Letters of Anaïs Nin and Henry Miller

“I… want to inherit the witch in my women ancestors—the willfulness, the passion, ay, the passion where all good art comes from as women, the perseverance, the survivor skills, the courage, the strength of las mujeres bravas, peleoneras, necias, berrrinchudas. I want to be una brava, una peleonera, necia, nerrinchuda. I want to be bad if bad means I must go against society—el Papá, el Pápa, the boyfriend, lover, husband, girlfriend, comadres—and listen to my own heart, that incredible witch’s broom that will take me where I need to go.”

Sandra Cisneros, A House of My Own

“I wanted you to see what real courage is, instead of getting the idea that courage is a man with a gun in his hand. It’s when you know you’re licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what.”

Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird

“Many people seem to think it foolish, even superstitious, to believe that the world could still change for the better. And it is true that in winter it is sometimes so bitingly cold that one is tempted to say, ‘What do I care if there is a summer; its warmth is no help to me now.’ Yes, evil often seems to surpass good. But then, in spite of us, and without our permission, there comes at last an end to the bitter frosts. One morning the wind turns, and there is a thaw. And so I must still have hope.”

Vincent van Gogh, The Letters of Vincent van Gogh

“In the winter I am writing about, there was much darkness. Darkness of nature, darkness of event, darkness of the spirit. The sprawling darkness of not knowing. We speak of the light of reason. I would speak here of the darkness of the world, and the light of———. But I don’t know what to call it. Maybe hope. Maybe faith, but not a shaped faith—only, say, a gesture, or a continuum of gestures. But probably it is closer to hope, that is more active, and far messier than faith must be. Faith, as I imagine it, is tensile, and cool, and has no need of words. Hope, I know is a fighter and a screamer.”

Mary Oliver, Winter Hours: Prose, Poems, and Prose Poems

“There is always some miracle left; and though miracles do not happen, they might happen. Who knows? Perhaps our intelligence, our instinct, our senses, in spite of their daylight clearness, are leading us astray. Perhaps the one thing needful is just that unreasoning courage which follows hope’s will-o’-the-wisp as it burns…”

Jens Peter Jacobsen, Niels Lyhne

“But if the deepest loss, […] / can be, not just survived, but made into the matter / of hope, made into song, not into a hatchet / to cut off the offending parts, made into poems / then blessed be the end of things, the loss of whatever / secures us blindly and mutely to our lives.”

Julia Alvarez, The Other Side/El Otro Lado

“I run / stumbling, expectant. / Impatience is hopelessly / desperate. Hope / takes time.”

Marie Ponsot, Springing: New and Selected Poems

“How lightly we learn to hold hope, / as if it were an animal that could turn around / and bite your hand. And still we carry it / the way a mother would, carefully, / from one day to the next.”

Danusha Laméris, The Moons of August

“Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.”

Representative John Lewis

“Where does such a force come from? What does it mean? A voice very faint, and inside me, offers a possibility: how shall there be redemption and resurrection unless there has been a great sorrow? And isn’t struggle and rising the real work of our lives?”

Mary Oliver, Winter Hours: Prose, Poems, and Prose Poems

“Don’t forget that apparent impossibility of something is the first sign of its naturalness—in a different world, obviously.

Marina Tsvetaeva, from a letter to Anatoly Steiger

“Grieve. Have / hope.”

Jorie Graham, Swarm

John Berryman, “The Heart is Strange”

“Skin had hope, that what’s skin does. / Heals over the scarred place, makes a road.”

Naomi Shihab Nye, “Two Countries”

“I am quite troubled in the depths of my soul. But that will pass,”

George Sand, in a letter to Gustave Flaubert

“Let’s dance a little before we go home to hell.”

Muriel Rukeyser, A Muriel Rukeyser Reader

Hélène Cixous, Hyperdream (tr. Beverly Bie Brahic)

“That most moments were substantially the same did not detract at all from the possibility that the next moment might be utterly different.”

Marilynne Robinson, Housekeeping

Ada Limón, “Dead Stars”

“Listen, everyone has a chance. Is it spring, is it morning? Are there trees near you, and does your own soul need comforting? Quick, then — open the door and fly on your heavy feet…”

Mary Oliver, New and Selected Poems

“Get to the bottom of this intensity and have faith in what is most horrible, instead of fighting it off—it reveals itself for those who can trust it, in spite of its overwhelming and dire appearance, as a kind of initiation. By way of loss, by way of such vast and immeasurable experiences of loss, we are quite powerfully introduced to the whole.”

Rainer Maria Rilke, from a letter to Countess Alexandrine Schwerin, June 16, 1922

“…only one thing is urgently needed: to attach oneself with unconditional purpose somewhere to nature, to what is strong, striving and bright, and to move forward without guile, even if that means in the least important, daily matters. Each time we tackle something with joy, each time we open our eyes toward a yet untouched distance we transform not only this and the next moment, but we also rearrange and gradually assimilate the past inside of us.”

Rainer Maria Rilke, from a letter to Adelheid von der Marwitz, September 11, 1919

“Continue to believe that with your feeling and with your work you take part in what is the greatest. The more strongly you cultivate this belief inside of you, the more it will give rise to reality and world.”

Rainer Maria Rilke, from a letter to Elisabeth Freiin Schenk zu Schweinsberg, September 23, 1908

“…I have known with certainty that the worst things, and even despair, are only a kind of abundance and an onslaught of existence that one decision of the heart could turn into its opposite. Where things become truly difficult and unbearable, we find ourselves in a place already very close to its transformation.”

Rainer Maria Rilke, from a letter to Anita Forrer, February 14, 1920

“…he says, it will be all right.

“It is not the saying of an oracle or a prophet. They are words you might speak to a child ... and somehow I am comforted. He does not mean that it does not hurt. He does not mean that we are not frightened. Only that: we are here. This is what it means to swim in the tide, to walk the earth and feel it touch your feet. This is what it means to be alive.”

Madeline Miller, Circe

“Right then she knows herself even less than she knows the sea. Her courage comes from not knowing herself, but going ahead nevertheless. Not knowing yourself is inevitable, and not knowing yourself demands courage.

Clarice Lispector, Complete Stories; “The Waters of the World”

“Recovery (which includes return and renewal of health) is a re-gaining—regaining of a clear view. I do not say “seeing things as they are” and involve myself with the philosophers, though I might venture to say “seeing things as we are (or were) meant to see them”—as things apart from ourselves. We need, in any case, to clean our windows; so that the things seen clearly may be freed from the drab blur of triteness or familiarity—from possessiveness. Of all faces those of our familiares are the ones both most difficult to play fantastic tricks with, and most difficult really to see with fresh attention, perceiving their likeness and unlikeness: that they are faces, and yet unique faces.”

J.R.R. Tolkien, from his essay On Fairy-Stories

Camille Norton, Corruption: Poems

“Keep busy with survival. Imitate the trees. Learn to lose in order to recover, and remember that nothing stays the same for long, not even pain, psychic pain. Sit it out. Let it all pass. Let it go.”

May Sarton, Journal of a Solitude

“I have the fervour of myself for a presence / and my own spirit for light; / and my spirit with its loss / knows this; though small against the black, / small against the formless rocks, / hell must break before I am lost;”

H.D. from Collected Poems; “Eurydice”

Denise Levertov, “Epilogue”

“The days go numb, the wind / sucks the world from your senses like withered leaves. // Through the empty branches the sky remains. / It is what you have. / Be earth now, and evensong. / Be the ground lying under that sky. / Be modest now, like a thing / ripened until it is real…”

Rainer Maria Rilke, from Rilke’s Book of Hours (tr. Anita Barrows, Joanna Macy)

“I know your sorrow and I know that for the likes of us there is not ease for the heart to be had from words of reason and that in the very assurance of sorrow’s fading there is more sorrow. So I offer you only my deeply affectionate and compassionate thoughts and wish for you only that the strange thing may never fail you, whatever it is, that gives us the strength to live on and on with our wounds.”

Samuel Beckett’s words of consolation to his friend, Alan Schneider

“What matters is not to allow my whole life to be dominated by what is going on inside me. That has to be kept subordinate one way or another. What I mean is: one must not let oneself be completely disabled by just one thing, however bad; don’t let it impede the great stream of life that flows through you. I have the feeling of something secret deep inside me that no one knows about.”

Etty Hillesum, from a diary entry featured in An Interrupted Life

“You have been told that, even like a chain, you are as weak as your weakest link. / This is but half the truth. You are also as strong as your strongest link. / To measure you by your smallest deed is to reckon the power of the ocean by the frailty of its foam. / To judge you by your failures is to cast blame upon the seasons for their inconstancy.”

Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet

“Try to keep what is beautiful to you and what you can use for today and now — You must not let things you cannot help destroy you —”

Georgia O’Keeffe, from Georgia O’Keeffe: Art and Letters

“What we love, shapely and pure, / is not to be held, / but to be believed in.”

Mary Oliver, from Evidence; “Swans”

“In time of the crises of the spirit, we are aware of all our need, our need for each other and our need for ourselves. We call up, with all the strength of summoning we have, our fullness. And then we turn; for it is a turning that we have prepared; and act. The time of turning may be very long. It may hardly exist.”

Muriel Rukeyser, from A Muriel Rukeyser Reader, “The Life of Poetry”

“To be hopeful in bad times is not just foolishly romantic. It is based on the fact that human history is a history not only of cruelty, but also of compassion, sacrifice, courage, kindness. What we choose to emphasize in this complex history will determine our lives. If we see only the worst, it destroys our capacity to do something. If we remember those times and places—and there are so many—where people have behaved magnificently, this gives us the energy to act, and at least the possibility of sending this spinning top of a world in a different direction. And if we do act, in however small a way, we don’t have to wait for some grand utopian future. The future is an infinite succession of presents, and to live now as we think human beings should live, in defiance of all that is bad around us, is itself a marvelous victory.” 

Howard Zinn, A Power Governments Cannot Suppress

“But don’t lose heart, dear ones—don’t lose heart. Don’t let it make you bitter. Try to understand. Try to understand. The world’s already bitter enough, we got to try to be better than the world.”

James Baldwin, from Another Country

“You do not have to be good. / You do not have to walk on your knees / for a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. / You only have to let the soft animal of your body / love what it loves. / Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine. / Meanwhile, the world goes on.”

Mary Oliver, “Wild Geese”

[caroline18mars]

A Man On Fire - Chapter 58

Just a few taps on her ass to indicate that he was done, groaning he slid out of her, slowly she turned around to face him, he looked pale and seemed to avoid her eyes, “just what I needed” she put her arms around him, hold me, just hold me, but his hands just rested on her back, there was no squeezing, in fact it was barely a touch. There was a faint smile before he let go of her and quickly turned to wash “something wrong?” come on, I need to know, “no..just..feeling a bit nauseous, let's just get ready, it'll get better after I had some breakfast”. Getting dressed she felt a knot in her stomach looking at him, he had hardly said a word and seemed jittery and nervous, this wasn't just a hangover, this was behavior that looked almost guilty, don't think about it, don't jump to conclusions, drink and drugs do strange things to a person. “Ok, ready, how do I look?” she tried to keep the huge scarf out of the zipper of her leather jacket, he turned like he hadn't expected her to even be there. God, she was too beautiful “like I don't deserve you” he whispered with a sad grin, “ok Leto, what the hell happened last night? Tell me, because I'm sick and tired of all your moping around, come on, it's alright”. His bloodshot eyes briefly locked with hers “nothing happened, I just can't seem to shake this hangover, I told you” there was an annoyed tone to his voice as he put on his jacket as well, “fine, alright, let's go get that breakfast then”. The lobby was practically empty as they walked to the revolving door in silence, she felt her heart jump when he finally grabbed her hand, hopping down the stairs “what a beautiful morning” the crisp air filled her lungs. “Yeah..” definitely not in the mood for talking, huh? Alright, let's respect his silence then, silence is important in a relationship too, yes it is! Both their noses and cheeks were pinkishly glowing as Jared stopped and held open the door of what looked like the fanciest breakfast place in town “after you”. Waiters in long aprons, the soft clang of cutlery against the fine porcelain plates, everyone staring at them as they walked in, ok so maybe they looked a little like out of place, one definitely did, looking like death warmed up and it wasn't her. “No, non abbiamo prenotato” she smiled at the waiter who asked them about reservations, he quickly looked around and gestured to follow him “un tavola privato”, he winked at her, that waiter was definitely a Mars fan, she could tell from the secretly admiring look he gave Jared. “Grazie” she smiled as he pulled back her chair for her and handed them a menu, “for the record, I think I maxed out my credit card last night” she bit her lip, trying to make him smile but he barely looked up from his menu and hummed “don't worry, I'll pay” before he turned his attention back to the list of all things delicous. Ok..right, she continued scanning the menu as well, it all looked so yummy but she just wasn't hungry anymore, that knot in her stomach made her appetite walk right out the door.

”Sorry..I have to take this one too” what was this? His tenth call or so? Sighing she pushed another piece of toast in her mouth, she had barely touched her food, just shoving it around her plate, dry toast seemed to be the only thing she could manage right now. Outside the morning traffic was jumping, a sharp contrast to the serenity inside, she tried not to focus on Jared pacing the sidewalk in front of the window, he looked clearly agitated, angry even. What the hell happened on their way to heaven? Oh come on, it was just temporary, there was a lot on his mind, every second of every hour of every day there was always someone who needed his opinion, advice, attention, just let it go, coffee, breakfast and a couple of aspirins and he would be good to go again. “Why don't you switch that off, they've had more than enough of you while I hardly had any” she hopefully smiled up at him as he came walking back in, he just sat down lost in thought until she put her hand over his “hey” and tried to get his attention. “You've hardly touched your food, eat up so we can get out of here” he dug up his wallet. He hadn't heard a word she said, fine whatever, you detach, I detach! She threw the piece of toast she was still holding back on the plate and threw her napkin on the table, done, she was so done with all this bullshit, so she stood up without a word, put on her jacket and scarf and didn't even wait for him to pay as she calmly exited the room but inside her blood was boiling. She stomped down the street, behind her footsteps came running in her direction “Harper” he caught up with her “why did you walk out like that?”, her eyes were blazing when they met his “oh now you remember who I am! What is going on Jared? Just tell me about what happened last night that got you so distant?” she hissed at him. Oh god, let's not do this here  Harper, not now “nothing happened, it's just..” he looked at the peoply rushing by “listen, can we not do this here? I'm taking you back to the hotel” he grabbed her hand tight “I've got a lot to do today”.

Almost out of breath from practically being dragged back, she ended up in the hotel lobby by herself, “you go upstairs, I'll be right there” he breathed deep as he connected another call and disappeared with the phone glued to his ear again. In the elevator she couldn't hold back the tears any longer, things were seriously wrong, there was no denying it any longer, she quickly wiped them right before the door opened, knowing there was always someone present as most of the crew stayed on the same floor. “Harper” Shannon's voice greeted her, “oh..Shannon, hi” she turned, there was a twitch in his jaw she had never seen, like he was nervous seeing her “Jared not with you?” he breathed, “Uhm no..he had another phonecall..”. They were hovering around each other, it was clear there was more to say but they both desperately tried to keep it in “right..ok, I'll uhhm..go look for him then”, he was too nervous to not let it bother her. “Shannon..” she stopped him again, she had to know “uhm..what happened last night? I mean, you and I..we don't know each other that well, but I think you would tell me if something happened last night, right? I'm probably seeing things or I'm overreacting, but Jared just hasn't been himself since last night..he's distant and moody..I can hardly get a word out of him”. Harper couldn't help but notice the resemblance between the two brothers in the way Shannon shrugged and denied the same way Jared had done “nothing I can think of, he danced, he had fun, he's probably hung over, I'll admit it's been years since I've seen him drunk though..maybe he wanted to let his hair down for one of the last times..you know, him proposing to you” there was a strain to his wink. “Oh..yeah..that's probably it..thanks Shannon” she forced a smile and tried to brush her worries off, he nodded and then quickly turned and disappeared inside the elevator. Right, ok..she looked at her shoes, come on, it's nothing, you heard Shannon so stop overanalyzing, taking a deep breath she turned as well and headed for their room, it was times like these she missed having a real friend or family to talk to, the downside of keeping to herself all the time was kicking her in the ass, hard. “Jay” in the corner of his eye he saw his brother walk up to him as he disconnected the call, “I'm busy Shannon, what is it?” he so wasn't in the mood for this, or anything for that matter. “Has Shayla told you about the change of plans for check out? We're leaving an hour earlier,  and I'm gonna go straight to the venue when we get there, Jon wanted to test a few things with me” he pushed his hands deep in his pockets. “Yeah ok”, oh little brother you just can't hide anything from me, can you? “oh and I think you need to go play nice or come clean with your girl, because she's definitely suspecting something, that's for sure”. Jared's head shot up “what did you say to her?” he snapped, “calm down, I didn't tell her anything, I didn't have to..just go talk to her, that's all she wants” Shannon looked him straight in the eye without blinking.

He found her kneeling in front of a few bags gently packing up her brushes and oils, “need some help?”, his voice doomed up behind her, piercing her jumbled thoughts, “uh no, I've got this” she let her butt connect with her heels and looked up at him when his hand lightly brushed her hair. “You ok?” she whispered and tried to keep the mood light and suggestive “you know you look like you could do with an amazing blowjob, I'm already in the right position” she gave him a fat grin as she already reached for his belt and fly. Bingo! Finally a smile, come here big boy, let me blow your dick and your mind, all at the same time, a shiver went down his spine, no Harper, no baby don't..I don't deserve you..but then he disappeared inside of that warm, heavenly mouth and all of his objections went right out of the window. Her hands ran from his thighs up to his abs, squeezing his flesh, wet and sloppy noises rang in his ears and with the feel of her mouth on him..there was nothing else, he didn't know where they were, and it didn't even matter, they mattered, here in their own private universe. It wasn't long before he climaxed with a deep groan, but there was no caress, no time to reconnect, he mumbled something as he zipped up again and quickly fled to the bathroom, what the..?? don't doubt yourself, Coco, no don't do it, he's probably still not feeling too well. Sighing she got up off her knees and just when she wanted to follow him, there was a knock on the door, how awkward to let somebody in after what they had just done.

“Harper..hey..can I come in?” Sean already took a step forward so she had to let him in “you already are..What is it Sean?” Harper sighed. “Is Jared in? Because there's something I need to tell you..we really need to talk” he grabbed her shoulders, “yes he's in and why do you need to talk to my girlfriend? you were warned Sean, to stay the hell away from her” Jared came walking back out of the bathroom again alarmed by hearing Sean's voice. “So come on, what do you need to tell Coco so bad? Surely anything you can say to her, you can say to me” Jared calmly said, “I uhm..well I thought you weren't here, so I came over..to tell her that we're leaving earlier..everyone's ready, I just didn't know if she knew..that's all” Sean smiled confidently but the daggers in his eyes aimed at Jared were unmistakably there. “Oh she knows! We'll be right down” Jared walked towards the door and opened it for him again, Sean hesitated for a second as his eyes met hers, was that genuine concern she saw in them for the first time? “Ok..yeah..” Sean admitted defeat and walked out while Jared pushed the door shut with his foot. “Why do you let him in all the time? Still haven't had enough of him after everything he's done to you?” that was one nasty snarl which was completely uncalled for, “all the time? What are you suggesting?” she could hardly believe her ears. “I don't know, you heard him, he specifically asked if I wasn't here, I mean has this been happening a lot lately? Him showing up when I'm not around?” he shot back at her, this time with a lot more insinuation and force,  “huh? how was I even supposed to know that he was on the other side of the door? I'm not clearvoyant yet, Jared!” usually she wasn't lost for words, but right now she was. “I don't care, you're staying away from him, you're not sitting next to him on the bus or in a car, you block his number on your phone, I forbid you to even look at him, is that clear?” he yelled at her. “What? You forbid me?..” she instantly protested but he cut her off “Yes I do! You may be too naïve but I'm not, don't let me catch you two together, I'm deadly serious Harper, consider yourself warned” he grabbed his bag and his coat and let the door slam shut behind him.

[yourereallyhere]

6x04 reaction post

HI I JUST FINISHED WATCHING THE EPISODE and im SO EXCITED to see everyones posts because I've being avoiding social media since 8 pm EST,, that was the best episode of the season by far and im FREAKING OUT so enjoy all the thoughts I had while watching since I was able to do this when I didn't watch live as I usually do and also come scream in my inbox (under the cut bc its pretty long)

⁃ Diyoza is a #sav

⁃ This convo bt Russell and Simone hmmm we know where this is going 

⁃ MADI AND JORDAN ARE SO CUTE

⁃ Raven in a mechanic shop? This is an au fic

⁃ Everyone is so happy

⁃ “It will be like it never happened”..so if Clarke does it Josephine wouldn’t have her memories

⁃ But then Delilah wouldn’t remember Jordan 

⁃ Poor Madi

⁃ Bellamy and echo where did you come from 👀

⁃ Bellamy’s smirk at Jordan

⁃ Oof Clarke is really warming up to sanctum 

⁃ Bellamy follows Clarke what a good little night and e.cho is pissed

⁃ They’re all still in murder gear 

⁃ HUNGER GAMES AHAHAHA DLCIWJFKXI

⁃ Simone is 😡😡 angry

⁃ Repent renew rejoice rebirth

⁃ THE B.ECHO SHOT AND THEN THE CLARKE SHOT AS SHES TURNING AWAY FROM LOOKING AT THEM

⁃ Russell is so cute yay for men showing emotions!

⁃ Oh clarke you’ve hurt people but we love you anyways

⁃ OHHH THE PRINCESS MECHANIC FIGHT I WAS RIGHT I love when that happens

⁃ HONEY don’t apologize for Shaw you didn’t do shit and you were the only one who even tried to save him pls spare me this bs jroth

⁃ Don’t make Clarke feel bad for having impossible choices that’s so fucked up everyone puts responsibility on her and as she’s said MULTIPLE TIMES she. Didn’t. Ask. For. This.

⁃ WHOOP there it is: bringing Bellamy into the convo 

⁃ THAT IS NOT THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CLARKE AND OCTAVIA ANS CLARKE DOESNT PRETEND

⁃ Awe Octavia is protecting Clarke that’s so nice

⁃ Errand boy is hot hot hotttt he should get with Octavia

⁃ Rose and Octavia is a duo I stand by

⁃ Xavier left that knife there on purpose

⁃ THE LANTERNS

⁃ Omg clarkes said “Leaving Bellamy in Polis” that’s her darkness of the past I’m not crying you are

⁃ And now they’re talking 

⁃ AND SHE CONFIRMED IT

⁃ Clarke stop was literally the cutest thing to come out of that boys mouth ever

⁃ The Talk™️ but not really because The Real Talk™️ will have to be alone

⁃ WE BEEN KNEW THE IM SO SORRY BELLAMY WAS FROM A DIFFERENT CLIP

⁃ you’re,. my. FAMILy TOO ANJCICIWKJDJS. AAAHHHHHHG

⁃ YOURE TOO IMPORTANT TO ME

⁃ this is going down as one of the most iconic scenes ever

⁃ I have to pause every two seconds to type I’m too excited and don’t want to miss anything

⁃ HES SO HAPPY

⁃ THE HUG

⁃ THE HUG

⁃ THE HUG

⁃ Bellamy stop beating yourself up

⁃ They’re standing SO CLOSE

⁃ Xavier’s smirk I knew he left it on purpose

⁃ Awe raven found her lil hub maybe she’ll find a way to take the giant stick out of her ass

⁃ OOO a boy maybe he’ll replace that stick for his

⁃ I’m so sorry about that idk what came over me

⁃ But yea they’re gonna bang 

⁃ He’s the prime from the pic raven was looking at

⁃ What’s their ship name ?? They both start with R .. Raver?

⁃ CLARKES A RAVER

⁃ AND SHES HERSELF

⁃ AT THE RAVE

⁃ oooo Bellamy’s gonna get jealous

⁃ that’s the wrong man clarkey 

⁃ We need a reaction shot

⁃ CLARKES SMILING SO MUCH

⁃ omg Bellamy’s watching clarke and doctor man

⁃ E.chos watching him watching clarke ANGST

⁃ Don’t lie bell we know why you’re upset

⁃ B.echo fight gimme

⁃ Also bell that wasn’t the last time you were at a party the last time was in Arkadia at the end of the world with your blue solo cup and the girl who looked suspiciously like your wife

⁃ Omg BELL CALLING E.CHO OUT FOR BEING A ROBOT

⁃ how would the e.cho you knew on the ring do that if no one was in trouble or dying ?? Unless bell was dying of sadness

⁃ Also weird thing to say right after clarke apologized to him showing that she does in fact care when people are in trouble or dying

⁃ FINALLY TALKING ABOUT MONTY AND HARPER (HARPER HARPER DONT FORGET HER)

⁃ Wow Bellamy that was a lot of sass

⁃ I kind of feel bad for e.cho

⁃ Octavia is SO GOOD in this episode

⁃ FEAR IS A MOTHERFUCKING DEMON love that callback

⁃ Oh good grab the stick

⁃ YAS DIYOZA

⁃ NICE STICK THATS WHAT I SAID AHHAH

⁃ omg I knew rose was gonna die now clarkes gonna become the host but I’m sad bc she was so cute and smol 

⁃ Octavia we know you’re gonna end up having sex with him

⁃ Diyoza is a cockblock

⁃ The ponytail is back YAS with braids this time

⁃ OOO I KNEW IT RYKERS A PRIME

⁃ I love being right

⁃ YES CLARKE ITS BEEN 132 YEARS GET THAT DICCCCCC

⁃ Clarke is so hot

⁃ And *invisible ink* horny

⁃ Delilah doesn’t want to forget that’s #sweet

⁃ Oo good job clarke he’s got abs

⁃ Banned by the primes hmm is this guy a spy 

⁃ HE IS THE SPY

⁃ POOR CLARKE THE FIRST GUY SHE HOOKS UP WITH WANTS HER DEAD

⁃ Clarke couldn’t release her sin of leaving Bellamy

⁃ Poor Jordan

⁃ OH YAY CLARKE IS BEING SAVED FOR ONCE even if it’s by randos 

⁃ That tear. Kill me.

⁃ I miss Bellamy come back to my screen bby

⁃ Also murphy Emori Abby Miller Jackson were just kinda kicked out of the episode lol

⁃ They’re gonna turn Clarke into Josephine at the end of this episode and the next or next few will be everyone else having to save her for once I think so it’s good that she and Bellamy talked a little bit before

⁃ I am all for e.cho showing emotion

⁃ I don’t like that everyone is drinking their problems away though

⁃ Oo they obva haven’t been together that long or e.cho would have told Bellamy the truth about her parents before this right

⁃ Ok the b.echo scene was cute but their physical interactions just look so awkward and I wasn’t a big fan of Tastas acting although it was better than usual

⁃ RUSSELL NO they’re not even giving her a choice

⁃ They bad bad

⁃ NO CLARKE

⁃ the flaaaaame destroy that stupid piece of shit already

⁃ How can Eliza Taylor show SO MUCH EMOTION while paralyzed

⁃ Queen of acting

⁃ They’re calling Clarke a vessel like she’s not a human being

⁃ OMG this is so good like bad for Clarke but plot wise SO good (even though we saw it coming) and when she was screaming I thought it was her getting clarkes pain but I guess it was just being reincarnated 

⁃ THE HAIR TWIRLING 

⁃ Yes you can work with that it’s Clarke motherfucking Griffin

⁃ that was the best episode of the season. scream with me in my inbox.

[harper-clarington]

Safe & Sound || Romper

Where: Clarington residence

When: December 4, afternoon

Warnings: a blowjob, discussions of Roman/Dare sex, vague descriptions of injuries, hints of d/s

Word Count: 4,737

Harper in bold, @roman-lynn in italics

Things had been rough in Riverdale the last few weeks. Roman looked like he had been drug to Hell and back; the injuries between his fight with Hunter Clarington and his showdown against Kevin Platt Jr. evident across his entire body. Bruises and cuts fresh on his skin,  and yet his pride was still intact. He didn’t understand why Harper was worried about him, there was no need. He knew how to hold his own and take care of himself. He was still alive, wasn’t he?He knew that Harper wanted the reassurance and he wasn’t too thrilled with staying in his trailer anyways, especially with the recent events on the South Side. He was thankful that he has already been on the North Side, his walk to the Clarington residence only a short ways away from Charlie’s apartment. Every step he took felt like a lifetime, but he finally reached the front gate. He pressed the buzzer, nervous that someone other than Harper would answer. “Hello?”, he called into the speaker box, shifting on his feet “It’s Rome”

Harper didn't know why she'd been so anxious since she'd found out about Darius and Roman's mutiny and their subsequent injuries. She'd been sure Blaine was taking care of Darius, but she needed to see Roman for herself to make sure he was fine, especially since he refused to go to the hospital. When the buzzer rang, Harper rushed over to open it,  not wanting any of the staff to beat her to it and ask questions. "Come on in," she said, pressing the button and then heading downstairs to wait by the door. She opened it, biting her lip when she saw Roman, and before she could stop herself, she was wrapping him in a tight hug. "Jesus fucking Christ, what is wrong with you Serpents?"

It took Roman longer than expected to make his way up the path to the front door. Somehow, he still made it before Harper albeit he was out of breath. He didn’t mind looking like he had just been in a fight, but he felt like he had been ran over by a tractor trailer. Twice. Going to a hospital just wasn’t an option for him, especially not with everything that had been happening. Sheriff Hummel had already held him once, when he had stumbled over Sebrina Smythe’s body, he didn’t need to deal with more questions from him. Roman’s eyes lit up when the door opened, revealing Harper and Roman felt his heart beat speed up. She was quick to move in for a hug, causing him to let out a sharp intake of breath. He settled one hand onto Harper’s back and buried his face into her shoulder. “Hello to you too”

Harper clung to him for a moment more, before reluctantly pulling back and taking his hand instead, pulling him into the enormous mansion and nudging  the door shut behind him. "Oh, I am so mad at you." She hated this. She hated being worried about stupid boys with stupid smiles and stupid eyes and stupid abs. Ugh. Once they were in her room, she turned . back around to see him, and frowned at the marks on his face. She reached up and carefully ran her fingers over them,  before shaking her head. "Please tell me the cuts have been cleaned and have ointment on them at least?"

Roman was able to breathe once Harper pulled away, the ache in his body dulling to a minimum. He didn't know what to say to Harper, he didn't understand why she was mad with him. A North Sider like herself  normally would have no care for who was in charge of the South Side gang. It was Serpent business--between himself, Darius, and any other member baring a snake tattoo. All he could do is roll his eyes and follow her through the halls up to her bedroom. They were quiet as they made their way, not wanting to rouse any suspicion from the Claringtons. Once the door was closed to her bedroom, he settled his hands on her hips as she lightly ran her fingers over his cuts, making him shiver. "Other than the big one on my forehead, no." Roman shrugged, "I took a shower like an hour after."

Harper shook her head, rolling her eyes. "A shower is not enough to stop an infection. If you're not going to get looked at, you need to at least take care of yourself and keep applying ointment to all of them. And icing your bruises to reduce the swelling." She got up for a second, and darted out of her bedroom to go rummage around in the kitchen. Usually, she'd feel weird about leaving someone alone in her bedroom, but for some reason she trusted that Roman wouldn't snoop. She grabbed an ice pack from one of the freezers, and grabbed some ointment out of the first aid kit as well, before returning to her room. "Alright, hold this on your bruises. 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off."

Roman furrowed his brow and grit his teeth; he didn't care about getting an infection or about bruises. He was going to look like this for at least a solid week, no matter what he did about his injuries. His intention for coming to Harper's wasn't strictly pure anyways. He figured he'd may be able to squeeze out an easy pity fuck out of her. That didn't look like it was going to be the case. With Harper fluttering out the door, Roman was left to his own devices. He bent down, wincing at his bruised ribs and unlaced his boots, leaving them next to the door. He wrestled out of his leather jacket and hung it on the back of a chair, leaving him in only a hoody and his jeans. He moved to the bed, sitting on the edge of it, hands idle as he waited for Harper's return. She came back, a force, bearing all sorts of first aid items and Roman felt like he could barely get a word in edgewise. "Harp--", he finally interjected, his hand on her arm. "I'm fine. I don't need all this."

Harper worried her lower lip between her teeth, gently pressing the ice pack to his face. "Why can't you just shut up and let me do this for five minutes?" She grabbed his hand and pulled it up, pressing it to the ice. "Hold it here. If you keep it on as long as I ask, I'll suck your dick." She reached down and grabbed the ointment, unscrewing it and then gently dabbing it over the cuts, making sure to work it in without pressing too hard, before she pulled back to examine her handiwork. "Anything more than this and I'm sure you'll act like I'm torturing you, so I guess that's enough. Keep the ice on." She felt calmer now that she'd done something, less worried that he'd drop dead in front of her. She took a minute to look him over, and now that she'd patched him up, she had to admit, at least to herself, that the roughed up look was kind of hot.

Roman exaggerated a groan and rolled his eyes, slightly annoyed. The ice was freezing on his face, but the cool burn was slowly numbing the pain behind his eye. He allowed Harper to move his hand to hold the ice pack and laughed, surprised at her negotiation tactic. “Deal.”, he said, agreeing  to her terms. He sat quietly as Harper dabbed the ointment on the few cuts that were visible. He a lot more bruises and cuts underneath his clothing, mostly covering his chest and ribs, which he was sure she would see. Without  retort, Roman lifted his hoody with his free hand, showing her underneath. “Actually, I was going to say that I had a lot more under here.”

Harper muttered a swear word under her breath that would probably be considered 'unladylike' if her mother ever heard her say it but she didn't quite care at the moment. "Oh my god. Is it just your chest or are their any on your back and legs too?" She came back over to him, and perched next to him on the bed, carefully putting ointment on some of the other cuts before she grabbed a different icepack and started to hold it to the biggest bruise on his chest. "I feel like an ice bath would be more useful here but I don't want you to freeze either. We're going to have to make do." She shook her head. "I cannot believe Darius lost fingers. How does that even happen?! Are gang coup d'etats always this gorey?"

Roman awkwardly pulled off his sweatshirt, lifting it over his head along with his tank top underneath. His skin, ridden with bruises was on full display for Harper. “Chest and back are pretty rough, but I can’t lie that the ice bath idea isn’t all that bad. I used to do that back when I was still in high school—for baseball” Roman let out a small groan, a few of the cuts stinging with the application of the ointment. “Coup d’whats?”, he repeated confused as to what Harper was asking. “All I know is that Mean Man Platt brought a gun to a knife fight”

Harper stifled a gasp at the map of bruises blossoming across Roman's skin. "Yeah. Ice bath is sounding more and more like a good idea. I mean we have everything we need for one if you actually want to do it? " She raised an eyebrow at his explanation though. "Baseball, huh? Would've pegged you as more of a football or hockey guy." She shook her head fondly, pulling back a smidge once she was sure she'd coated everything she could in the disinfecting cream. "A coup d'etat. In technical terms it refers to when a military seizes power and overthrows the leader of a state. But I can't believe you guys didn't think he'd have a gun? What leader gives up power easily?"

Roman shook his head at the idea of getting into an ice bath at this time of year. “You kidding? I’ll end up catching pneumonia and dying before you can even get your mouth on me.” The hairs on Roman’s neck stood up, a shiver going straight down his spine. “I played baseball since I was 7, little league and the whole thing.” Roman shrugged, still not completely understanding Harper’s verbiage. He knew he agreed with her though, there was no reason why Kevin Sr was harboring a gun. Not unless he was afraid of something or guilty of something. “We’re Serpents. Guns leave evidence, so we don’t do guns.”

Harper snorted. "Shut up. We'd crank up the heaters. But suit yourself," she murmured, moving the ice pack to some of the bruises on his back. She couldn't resist leaning down to kiss him, slow but sensuous. "That is such a cute mental image." She finally stopped her ministrations, satisfied that she'd done as much as she could. She pulled back and then sat down next to him on the bed, nodding as he explained. "Uh...reassuring, kind of? But yeah that's true. Guns are pretty easy to trace. Daddy talks about 'foolproof evidence' all the time at the dinner table." She couldn't conceal her eyeroll at the thought.

It was awkward kissing Harper like this, shirt rucked up and hanging around his neck and still holding the ice pack to his face. He groaned, a small whine emitting from his mouth in complaint as she pulled away. “How long do I have to keep this thing on for?” He let out a ragged breath, and flopped down on the bed as Harper pulled the ice off his back. “Your dad...he’s a lawyer, right?”, he asked curiously, “Point being that there was no way to see that coming. I could have killed the guy.”

Harper giggled, and then glanced at her watch. "Give it a couple more minutes, you big baby. I promise I'll make it worth your while." She idly ran her fingers through his messy hair as she spoke. "He owns the jail and he's a warden there, but yes, he does have a law degree and he did co-create a law firm with Adrien Smythe," she explained. Her dad's strange obsession with crime and punishment was something that never particularly interested her. "I don't blame you. Ugh."

Roman nudged his head into Harper’s hand, itching for the contact. He pulled his bottom lip into his mouth and looked up at Harper as she made fun of him.  “I’ll believe it when I see it” Roman’s brow furrowed; he chose to ignore Harper’s comment about who her father was. Everyone knew who the Claringtons were in town, it had been more rhetorical. He focused on how Harper seemed to care about his anger towards Darius’ injuries, sounding like she almost had genuine concern for him. “Yeah, I mean...Darius is my brother. And the Platt’s—they’ll get what they deserve.”

Harper sat down on the bed next to him, leaning into his side but taking care not to put to much weight on him so that she didn't aggravate his injuries. "Alright, alright, shush." She tilted her head up, a bit curious. "So what...happens to them? Now that they're out?" She bit on her lip for a moment, reaching out to take Roman's free hand in hers. "It's sweet. That you and Darius are so close. Have you always been that way?"

Roman pulled Harper closer to him, his arm wrapped around her waist. Her weight on top of him was enough to ground him, keeping him focused on the conversation instead of the spark of irrational jealousy he felt. “They’ve been stripped of their skins and exiled.” Roman didn’t really know what was going to happen, it seemed inevitable that somewhere down the line he and Darius would have to deal with them again in the future. “Me and Darius are...I don’t know, we’re close. We have a complicated friendship” Roman laughed, his mind offering up memories of Darius fucking him.

Harper wrinkled her nose. "I'm not...I can't follow this snake metaphor that far. What exactly does being stripped of your skin entail? Is it like you lose the jacket or what?" She snuggled into his side, a warm feeling blossoming in her chest when he wrapped his arm around her. She reached up and brushed at his bruise. "You're probably okay to take the ice off now," she said, before returning to the topic at hand. "Complicated how? How long have you know each other anyways?"

Roman swallowed, unsure if he should reveal to Harper all the events that unfolded. It wasn’t as if he was embarrassed or regretful about his actions, more so he didn’t want Harper to think of him as awful or get turned off. “I mean, yeah, that’s part of it. But the other part is the tattoo.” He peered over his shoulder, at his own Serpent tattoo. He took a moment, deciding against going into detail, before talking about his friend and new leader of the Serpents. “I couldn’t even tell you. Since we were kids, to be honest. He’s like family, which is weird cause I mean, I’ve not been coy about it. We’ve hooked up here and there. “

Harper brushed her fingers down his skin and traced the outline of the S of the snake's body, tilting her head to the side. "What happens to the tattoo?" She questioned, feeling a bit apprehensive about the answer. She couldn't help but giggle a little bit, her mind filling in the blanks with some very appealing images. "No way. That's kind of ridiculously hot." She was quiet for a moment, unsure if it was overstepping for her to say it but deciding to anyways. "It's kind of nice that you guys have built your own family though. There's something kind of romantic about choosing who you consider your own instead of whatever crap the universe decides to bestow on you."

A shiver ran down Roman’s spine as Harper traced his tattoo. He felt goosebumps pop up on his neck and curled his toes. “The Serpent tattoo is sacred. Cause like the jacket, you can’t just take it off. So, in exile you either get your Serpent burned off or cut off. It’s..a lot for you I’m sure” Roman laughed, of course Harper would think the idea of him and Darius together was hot. Hell, it was hot. But, it was more of a one-off happening. “Serpents are family, but there are some that i consider blood. Like Dare.”

Harper grimaced a little at the thought. It sounded all kinds of barbaric but to be fair, the guy they wanted to do that to had literally shot off part of Darius' hand so she supposed she couldn't blame them. If everyone who got 'skinned' was equally awful, she could sort of understand why it was a thing that happened. "I'm not like...in love with the thought but he also shot Darius' fingers off so fuck that guy and his skin." "I don't think you;'re supposed to fuck your blood," she joked, leaning in to nuzzle at his throat. She pressed a small kiss there, and then giggled, pulling back a little. "But in this case, I am willing to make an exception on account of two people as hot as you should definitely like...smooch...at the very least. It'd be a crime not to."

As gruesome as the act had been, skinning the Platt’s had been an honor. Their Serpent tattoos hung on the wall of the basement of the Whyte Wyrm as a warning to all. He and Darius weren’t to be fucked with. They were there to restore some of the Serpents reputation, since the elder Platt had trashed it, marking vile acts like rape and assault as simple tasks. But, no more. They had rid of that stench and of his son.

He couldn’t help but laugh at Harper, she seemed to not be able to get over the fact that he and Darius had hooked up. Almost seeming as if the idea of it turned her on. “You’re a little obsessed with that thought.”, he joked playfully. “You getting all hot and bothered by it?”

Harper smirked up at him, tilting her head to the side and biting her lip. "So what if I am?" She purred, before she carefully shifted her body to sling a leg over Roman's lap, before moving in one swift movement to straddle him. "You're hot. He's hot. What's not to like about the thought?" She leaned in to kiss him, this time far hungrier than the sweet kisses she'd bestowed upon them earlier. "Besides, I believe I made you some promises earlier. I'm a woman of my word. I intend to keep them."

Once Harper was settled on his lap, Roman could feel all the blood rushing down to his lower half. It had only been a week or so, but he was aching to be buried inside of Harper. He felt the jealousy build inside of him, although he had no right to be—since Harper wasn’t his. But, he felt possessive over her in a way and it wasn’t good. “mmm, I guess.” He said with a roll of his eyes. When she leaned to kiss him, he met her halfway, his hands splayed across her back. He pulled her lower lip into his mouth, his teeth barely nipping. “yeah? It’s a good promise.”

Harper couldn't help but grin a little at his petulant tone, but she didn't comment further, happy to focus on the feeling of his lips on hers instead.  She groaned against his mouth at the feeling of his teeth and then pulled back, smirking. She reached down to pull her top off, dropping it on the floor next to her, before leaning in to kiss him again. She rolled her hips down as she felt him start to stiffen under her. "I think a blowjob was definitely promised, was it not?" She purred, before crawling off him and instead getting on her knees in front of the bed, her fingers impatiently working at the button on his jeans, eager to get his cock out.

Roman was impatient, his hands grasping at her bare flesh. He bucked his hips and could feel the heat coming in waves off her making him breathe out a mumbled curse. His cock felt restricted in his jeans and he craved her touch. The sight of her on her knees was enough to get him fully hard. His pupils were blown wide and filled with lust, his mouth watering. “Fuck—please”, he said scrambling to help her get his jeans off.

Harper tugged his jeans and boxers down, before wrapping a hand around his cock, leaning down to lap at the head. She looked up at him as she did so, making sure she was making eye-contact, before she took the head of his dick into his mouth, sucking softly. She loved being on hers knees like this for him, bringing him pleasure and watching him fall apart. It made her feel sexy and wanted and special and she loved chasing that feeling with him. She breathed through her nose before sinking down deeper onto his cock.

Making eye contact with Harper as she went down on him was one of the sexiest things. He felt like all of her attention was focused on him. His breath hitched as she took him in his mouth, and he leaned up on his arms to get a better look. “Jesus—fuck, Harper”, he breathed, fingers grasping at the bed sheets. He couldn’t help but buck his hips, his cock completely sinking into Harper’s mouth making his eyes roll back into his head

Harper hollowed her cheeks out and concentrated on sucking Roman's brains out through his dick. She wrapped one hand around the base, squeezing the part of him that wasn't in her mouth as she swallowed around his cock. She pulled back a smidge to lave some more attention to his head, loving the way he said her name when he was in the throes of pleasure, and with renewed enthusiasm she sunk back down, this time letting him hit the back of her throat.

The attention that Harper was giving the head of his cock, had Roman feeling wild. The sensation of her tongue lapping at the rosy tip had him seeing stars and all he wanted was to bury himself into her to the hilt. When she took him all the way, his cock hitting the back of her throat, he couldn’t help but pump his hips a little, his eyes closing partially as he fucked into her mouth.  “Fuck. So good”, he mumbled, his fingers threading into Harper’s hair.

Harper swallowed around his cock as Roman rocked his hips forward. To further emphasize how happy she was for him to take control of the situation, she crossed her hands behind her back and then blinked up at him innocently. Something about Roman drove her crazy. A part of her just wanted him to take full control and just ruin her, make it so that she'd feel him for days, and she just wanted to push him to the point where he'd snap and do just that.

Harper taking her hand away had him blinking his eyes open. She looked seemingly innocent, as innocent as she could look with his cock still buried in her mouth. He pushed his hips closer to Harper, testing the waters, seeing how much she could take. “Fuck, look at you.” Roman sank into the heat of Harper’s mouth, biting his lower lip. “Taking my cock in your mouth like it’s nothing”

Harper whimpered around his cock but she didn't react further. This was exactly what she was hoping for, for Roman to just take whatever he was feeling out on her. She didn't know what it was about the whole situation, but she was addicted to it, to him. Her words had her practically preening and she tried to push herself forward even more, wanting to be good for him.

The words started to fall out of his mouth like nothing, just easy. Harper seemed to want nothing more than what he wanted and that incredibly hot.  Not focused on her own pleasure but just on him. He could get behind that. “Just like that”, Roman murmured, coaxing his cock further into Harper’s mouth, before pulling out completely. “Fuck, your mouth is so good.” He took himself in hand and eased the tip inside Harper’s mouth, just allowing the tip to get most of her attention. “You look so good like this”

Harper moaned around his cock, her eyes fluttering shut at his words. This was exactly what she was hoping for, hoping he’d do. She whimpered when he pulled out, straining forward for more before he nudged the tip back in. She kept her eyes closed and her arms crossed, just focused on the sensation of his cock in her mouth and his hands in her hair, wanting to make him good, wanting him to come down her throat and mark her all over.

Roman couldn’t help but feel a sense of submission coming off of Harper in waves; her demeanor making the animal inside of him claw at his chest, desperate to come out.  She looked incredible like this, on her knees, just taking anything that she could get. Roman felt his pleasure reaching its peak, his balls drawing up and his stomach tightening. He pushed his hips forward, filling Harper’s mouth one last time before he shuddered and cursed. “O-oh, fuck.”

Harper swallowed around him as Roman worked his hips deeper into her mouth as he came, the salty taste spilling onto her tongue and down her throat. She pulled back slightly, sucking at the head as she worked him through the aftershocks, before she pulled off completely once she was sure he was done. She cleaned him off with kitten licks, before sitting back on her heels completely. "Was that good?" She asked, sweetly, licking her lips as she met his eyes once more.

Roman continued to fuck into Harper's mouth as he came, stars bursting behind his eye lids as Harper worked him through his orgasm. His breath completely betrayed him, unable to speak other than soft grunts and moans until Harper pulled back from his softening cock. He blinked his eyes open, seeing Harper still on her knees, the image making his cock weakly pulse against his thigh. His eyes locked with Harper's and he laughed, "Good? Fuck, that was amazing"

Harper tried not to look too smug but she wasn't sure if she succeeded. "I told you I'd make things worth your while," she purred, before she got back up from the floor, brushed off her knees and then joined him back on the bed. "How you feeling now, champ?"

Roman rolled his eyes at the nickname, in no position to bat an eyelash as she had literally just sucked his dick. He threw his arm around her waist and breathed out a heavy sigh. “I’m feeling exhausted, to be honest. It’s not exactly easy to get sleep when your face feels like it’s been melted off.”

Harper leaned her head onto his shoulder, running her fingers up and down his bare arm. "Uh yeah, that's because your body is going into overdrive trying to compensate so it can heal you. Do you wanna take a nap?" It was maybe a little more domestic than they usually went for but she figured he deserved it.

Roman hadn’t originally planned to sleep, but he felt the exhaustion settling into his bones. “You sure?” He asked between a yawn, lolling his head to the side.

She leaned over and pressed a kiss to his exposed neck. "I'm positive. I could probably use it too. Besides, I sleep better with a warm body next to me."

Roman nodded, pulling Harper in close, tangling their legs together. “Okay, just like an hour or so though.”, he mumbled under his breath. After pressing a kiss to Harper’s cheek, he closed his eyes, sleep coming to him quickly.

[allbeendonebefore]

@ask-aph-acadia, @lilcutiebear, I’m making a new thread to reply to you both here p:

lilcutiebear: I took French immersion from k-12 so I’m very much in support of learning a second language and not monolingual. Personally I think there are two big factors in animosity towards French immersion in the west that have nothing to do with dislike of francophones. One is that I have seen articles complaining that it is like having a private school within the public school system (I’ve seen articles like that from basically every part of the country not just the west). More particular to the west is that many ppl here aren’t French Canadians or English Canadians and think it would make more sense to teach another language like German or Ukrainian or Chinese or Cree since more people here have those kinds of ancestry. So sometimes it feels like the east is pushing its linguistic divide onto us. I also feel like Anglophones here are different from Anglophones out east because a lot on Anglophones here are only Anglophones because their ancestors were forced to attend school in English rather than their native language. (I.e. My grandpa’s first language is Polish and even though he grew up in a community that was evenly split between poles and Ukrainians (with most kids understanding at least part of both)and his teacher was Ukrainian she wasn’t allowed to teach in any language other than English).

yes absolutely, this is another aspect of the issue that gets totally glossed over in the anglo/franco division. I don’t know about my personal family line but certainly people with my ancestry were discriminated against, forced to learn English, and also put in internment camps for their heritage and speaking Ukrainian. Canada making everything into a Catholic/Protestant or a French/English binary really does not evenly apply to the history of the West in particular but also can cause similar rifts elsewhere. Like we recognize bilingualism is good but 1. our educational systems are often garbage and 2. finding exposure to a native speaker of a target language can vary wildly, and learning French across Canada can be difficult if you are learning International French at School and Quebecois, Acadian or backwater prairie French at home. and 3. it’s always been grating that French (and English) are always prioritized over languages people already speak- we recognize Canada is a bilingual country, but there is not enough motivation or access to materials or native speakers in all locations unless you’re Really Super Determined to get a government job and can afford to move to a city with the programs. Canada is also a country of immigrants, and multilingualism should be celebrated beyond French and English.

ask-aph-acadia: For the criticism: I do remember seeing a few people draw the territories with darker skin, but since I couldn’t really see a big difference in their traits and the other provinces’ in the old art, I really had a hard time seeing if they were white or not, even though I know that First nations and Métis can have paler skin ( One of my characters is actually Métis and has pale skin, but I tried to make it easier to see with the other traits. ) I should maybe watch more of the ProCan videos though, just to make sure I don’t say things that were changed.

Lol i mean good luck, we basically do one video every three years and the projo has come to a standstill but yes Attempts Were Made 

I think that if PEI didn,t exist as a province at all I wouldn’t have had that much problems with NB and NS being a couple. I remember thinking that making it this way was excluding PEI from Acadia ( I can’t really say the Maritimes for this situation, since Newfoundland doesn’t have much to do with all of that ), forgetting that it’s been a part of NS too, maybe for a smaller time, but it still happened and gets forgotten a lot in designs for Acadia. PEI was also there when NB and NS talked about becoming one colony, so again seeing them as a couple made me feel like the smaller one was being kind of forgotten. I usually see people making PEI Nova Scotia’s sister/brother, while leaving NB and NS as a couple and I’ve always wondered what made them that different from Prince Ed for other people. 

Obviously I’m not a Maritimer, and I do tend to have my reading of the history shaped by what people have done in the past so I can absolutely see that there’s ambiguity in those relationships. I can’t speak for Sherry’s interpretations, I can only attempt to justify them in my own readings. I did get the sense that PEI has a very strong little sibling vibe i.e. the strong independence streak without wanting the responsibility, but I can read NS as the long suffering big brother figure for either of them. I think it’s the strong Scottish heritage that tends to tie NS and PEI together more than NS to NB, but I could be wrong.

As for Alberta and Saskatchewan, I think a lot of people see them as “sister provinces”, me included, and that’s why we usually see them as siblings, without mentionning the project of “Buffalo” ( I think that’s what it was called? Correct me if I’m wrong ).

Buffalo is correct: nowadays we tend to see each other as sister provinces but it can also depend on the reading of the history- Wilfrid Laurier dividing the provinces up can be seen as completely arbitrary with little regard for the people already living there, as an eastern imposition etc, but it rubs me the wrong way to just throw them together because they share a birthday (because I’ve got a personal Dislike of using Confederation as a literal birthday rather than a symbolic birthday and I really don’t like AB/SK portrayed as identical and interchangeable twins (even though lately our politicians have been playing that game loll a story for ANotHER Time). It’s definitely a close relationship that I tend to at least read as adoptive siblings since I’m Not a fan of literal biological relationships- they are definitely the closest out of the former Rupert’s Land territories fam.

For Poutines: I can tell you that when the cheese curds are fresh from today, it’s even better. I live in an area where the milk industry is very big and we’ve got that company called Chalifoux that makes the best cheese curds I’ve ever tasted. A lot of our restaurants use them in their poutines and it’s amazing. I know a few people that prefer shredded cheese but they obviously didn’t taste the best poutine in the region.

Another day another reason to be sad and lactose intolerant ToT and yet i regret nothing

For Alberta: I see that Quebec and Alberta have a very different version of the story. Honestly, I never saw Quebec as a province that tried to bother Alberta, we’re so concentrated on our own politics  that we hardly notice what happens in the rest of the country most of the time. I think the last time I heard about Alberta in the news was during Fort Mac’s wildfires, and a lot happened since it started. But again, we’re so focused on complaining about Phillipe Couillard that we don’t even see what he does, for the most part ( Doesn’t change that he’s a shit PM to me, but that’s a story for another day. ) The only other time I’ve heard about AB in the news was for the pipeline and I can say it’s at that moment that I’ve heard the most people going against the prairies. 

That’s regionalism for you, most of us tend to only focus on our own affairs until the minute someone releases some bad poll data about how much one hates the other online and then everyone goes ballistic. p: Pipelines again are a nuanced issue and while I personally am anti-pipeline i understand the reasons AB doesn’t see it that way, again we just got over a long 44 year political dynasty headed straight towards economic dependence on a single resource that our current government is trying to undo, and frankly it’s overly simplistic to just paint us as the bad guys because we’ve made some dumb decisions and backed ourselves into a corner here. We’re dumb, we get it, but don’t say it to our faces lol. Again if you are interested in this stuff I try to reblog news articles frequently on my personal blog under the yeah y yeah alberta tag  (my political bias is Obvious)

The other part of the story is the federal government is built on pitting regions of Canada against each other, and right now the West is the favourite scapegoat. Former PM Harper did not help our image at all in the 2000s-2010s and I take IMMENSE satisfaction knowing that he’s now got to answer to a Muslim mayor and a New Democrat premier, you have no idea. But it’s fear mongering like that where ohhh the west is all about oiiillll and then ignoring the history of Eastern Canada literally just taking it from us and the federal government making it our current major export etc etc is really hypocritical at best (the scapegoating Alberta for the oil and saying ohhh it’s so baaad and unenvironmental and then wanting to live off the profits is something that really is an easy way to piss us off, and the federal government does it all the time. 

We really saw Alberta and Saskatchewan as the big bad guys and a girl I knew started to DESPISE the provinces, even though she also hated Quebec? ( She’s the one we had drama with when creating our version of the provinces, she hated Alberta so much that she wanted my character to die… That’s a lot of hatred, but that is also a story for another day. ) I think a lot of Quebeckers are not over that yet, it’s probably time for us to go complain about something else than that ahah.

This is one of those touchy subjects and it Really Pisses me Off when people like to use aph Alberta OCs as their stereotypical villain character without ever considering our perspective or history, it’s happened enough that I’ve not been seeking out ocs for my province anymore for that reason. We already get that enough in mainstream politics, and all it does is make us angrier and act even more out of spite. I’ve seen Quebec and Ontario both treated the same way, of course, but QUON is such a popular pairing that more often than not its just Oh here is Loud Obnoxious Alberta Here To Ruin Everything for Us Once Again. They’re all such good and nuanced characters that it makes me real sad to see them reduced like that. I’ve always seen the relationship as playful banter/teasing between the three of us (and really four because BC is up there with us) and I kind of feel partially responsible for my adlibbing in old IAMP episodes being taken Too Seriously.

Also hating a character is once thing, hating them to wanting them to die is beyond rude, and hating an aph oc for representing a place with real people is Beyond offensive to me, sigh... 

For French: I can get why a lot of people complain about having to learn it, it’s a hard language, even for native speakers. We’re also guilty of blaming the “anglos” for making us learn English. I do see how Quebec and Ontario look like they have been working together, but we don’t see it from inside Quebec, since we complain about Ontario as much as we complain about the rest of the provinces ( Ontario is actually our biggest target, it’s easy to do, since we’re so close. ) I don’t mind people complaining about French outside of Quebec, but it’s when people do it inside the province that it bothers me. I already see so many people choosing to speak English instead of French, thus loosing what’s supposed to be their native tongue that I and a lot of other people get on the defensive when we talk about language issues, like when we don’t know what language to speak in in Montreal. Remember when I talked about Phillipe Couillard? Well, he recently asked for English people to come back in the province and I can tell you that it wasn’t welcomed as a good thing by most Quebeckers… ( I could rant about Couillard for hours but I think it’s better if I stop it there) We’re welcoming of tourists but when we hear them complain about how everything’s written in French, it’s at that moment that we get a lot more like the stereotype.I would love to visit one day, and maybe these English class will finally be useful somewhere else than on the internet ahah

(of course once again see Amy’s response above for the western perspective on this issue) 

there’s a lot of common jokes that the only unifying thing about canada is everyone’s hatred of ontario and that the best thing to solve everyone’s problems would be if ontario were to separate and leave the rest of canada alone xDD but of course at the end of the day it’s still nothing personal and as much as I can’t quell the Stereotypical Albertan gut reaction to shake my fist at all things Ontarian, I am very fond of this place and have been treated exceedingly well whenever I’ve visited and I hope my good fortune will continue. But of course I understand wanting to protect French within Quebec, and I do really wish it was a more accessible language in other parts of Canada. But yeah, travel, education, all that gives me hope for the future (too bad Canada is so Damn Big or I’d be all over it already). 

[themusingsofacurlyhairednerd]

All My Friends Are Heathens; Part 9

{ Part 8 }

{ Master List }

Summary: Octavia attempts to get the gang to start their own society in the woods in order to ditch school, Lincoln spills the beans about Bellamy having a date, cars are stolen, Clarke’s failing at being the Mom-friend... the usual delinquent nonsense ;)

*Delinquent group chat*

TheSuperiorBlake: who wants to abandon all adult responsibilities and create a Amazonian-like society in the woods with me??

i-make-it-go-boom: is this a Wonder Woman scenario where no men are invited BECAUSE SIGN ME TF UP

Murphy is getting on my last nerve

Jaaaaaasssssppper: Wonder Woman was a spiritual experience, I’ll dress in drag and do the hula if you let me in

Guns&Roses: Make him do the truffle shuffle

TrashPrince: U FALL ASLEEP THROUGH ONE SKYPE CALL AND SUDDENLY UR RELATIONSHIP IS ON THE ROCKS

Trikru: OCTAVIA MY LOVE MY LIFE YOU WOULD LEAVE ME??? WHAT HAPPENED TO FOREVER? OUR HAPPY ENDING?? :’( :’(

MillertheKiller: Lincoln, babe, don’t cry

I’ll be ur boo

TheSuperiorBlake: paws off Miller!!!

NurseGriffin: I’m listening

Greenbean: BELL UR GIRL IS TRYING TO LEAVE U OCTAVIA IS BREAKING UP OUR FAMILY

TheSuperiorBlake: everyone is invited you meatheads I just don’t want to study

Jaaaaaasssssppper: Cool cool

is booze involved then?

HeadbandWonder: ah come on! I don’t want to share a tent with anyone that smells like a gym locker :’(

NurseClarke: Guess we’re all sharing a tent with Bellamy ‘cause the rest of u guys smell like old socks

Bellamy smells like a forest after a light rain <3

TheSuperiorBlake: that’s oddly specific

MillertheKiller: Speaking of the freckled wonder... r shirts optional? Bellamy has abs that need to be appreciated

Trikru: that’s Clarke’s job

Iliad: Listen you toadstools I’m in the middle of a meeting 

If you’re going to compliment my physique at least wait until I’m available to appreciate the praise 

 Jaaaaaasssssppper: I vote to kick Bellamy out of our Amazon club he uses too many big words 

 TrashPrince: Seconded 

 Trikru: He can’t join anyway 

He’s too busy with his new beau ;)

 Greenbean: DAD HOW COULD U CHEAT ON MOM LIKE THIS???

Guns&Roses: WAIT IT’S NOT CLARKE?????????????

MOM SAY IT ISN’T SO????????????

 Jaaaaassssppper: UR TEARING THIS FAMILY A PART U MONSTER

 TrashPrince: I’M THE GARBAGE CAN OF THIS FAMILY YOU CAN’T JUST WALTZ IN AND TAKE MY PLACE LIKE THIS!!! 

 TheSuperiorBlake: IF IT’S THAT TRICK ASS BITCH ECHO AGAIN I SWEAR TO GOD I WILL MAKE THAT PIECE OF SHIT DISAPPEAR

 Iliad: 

In

 A 

Meeting!!!!!!!!!

 i-make-it-go-boom: Mom did u know about this??? 

 Greenbean: r u sad? 

Jasper and I will make u brownies 

And give u hugs 

Jaaaaaasssssppper: we’ll wrap u in blankets and take care of u mom UNLIKE SMELLAMY YOU SHITBRICK 

NurseGriffin: guys I’m fine 

TrashPrince: LIES 

TheSuperiorBlake: u guys leave her alone 

She’s in the first step of recovery: Denial 

NurseGriffin: I’m not in denial you meatheads 

MillertheKiller: only someone in denial would say that 

TrashPrince: As someone who has gone to therapy several times, I can say with all authority that mommy dearest is indeed in denial 

i-make-it-go-boom: as a certified mechanic, I’m obligated to fix this AND FIX IT I SHALL 

BELLAMY BRADBURY BLAKE GET UR EFFECTS IN ORDER BECAUSE I’M ABOUT TO BITCH SLAP UR SORRY ASS INTO NEXT YEAR!! 

TrashPrince: GRAB UR PITCHFORKS MEN 

MillertheKiller: I’LL LIGHT THE TORCHES 

Jaaaaaassssppper: LET’S KILL THE BEAST! 

Greenbean: wut? 

Jaaaaassssppper: I thought we were quoting that beauty and the beast song 

i-make-it-go-boom: I GET TO BE THE ONE WHO BREAKS DOWN THE DOOR WITH A BATTERING RAM!! 

TheSuperiorBlake: this convo really got away from me 

TrashPrince: #knockbellamyintonextyear2k17 

Guns&Roses: FOR NARNIA  AND CLARKE’S HONOR

HeadbandWonder: let’s hit him where it hurts!! 

TrashPrince: I’m suggesting a mob and all u want to do is kick him in the junk?? UR uninvited from our mob Harper 

HeadbandWonder: I MEANT THE LIBRARY THE TRUE LOVE OF HIS LIFE U DONUTHOLE 

TrashPrince: fine ur re-invited BUT UR ON THIN ICE 

*Operation Fake Out*

NurseGriffin: listen i know you’re in a meeting and everything, but we should probs tell them we’re “dating” before they kill you

Iliad: Oh I’m not actually in a meeting

I went to get us coffee, I was gonna stop by your house and surprise you, but I didn’t realize until I got there that I left my wallet back at the library. -_-

I just said I was in a meeting so I didn’t have to respond to their idiocy

NurseGriffin: awwwwwwww!! <3 who’s the best fake bf ever?

Iliad: Chris Evans probably

Any of the Chris’s really

But I’ll happily take second place ;)

Anyway... once I get my wallet I’ll bring you coffee and we can talk about when we’re going to let them “catch” us on a date.

 NurseGriffin: Just make it fast, Murphy’s trying to start a mob

Iliad: Copy that, Princess

*Delinquents*

Trikru: u know what would be more fun than a mob?? Inviting Bellamy and his gf to dinner so we can get to know them 

i-make-it-go-boom: pass 

MillertheKiller: hard pass 

besides I already broke the driver’s side window on bellamy’s rover 

NurseGriffin: U WHAT????? 

TrashPrince: WE MUST DEFEND CLARKE’S HONOR

MillertheKiller: Can’t talk I’ve stolen the rover Bellamy can’t escape

GET HIM BOYS AND BADASS LADIES WHO GENUINELY TERRIFY ME 

TheSuperiorBlake: Miller is the leader our amazon society doesn’t deserve but desperately needs 

TrashPrince: NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES 

 NurseGriffin: pls tell me this isn’t real 

i-make-it-go-boom: come pick me up!! I’ll repaint it and change the plates so the cops can’t find it 

Jaaaaaaasssssppper: Monty and I will wipe away all fingerprints 

 But within a month will have to ditch the car at the Mexican border, change our names, and start brand new lives in Canada from here on out you will call me Reginald!! 

Guns&Roses: I want to be Harper 

TheSuperiorBlake: I call dibs on being Murphy I’ve always wanted to be a sarcastic asshole with no concern for anyone’s feelings 

 TrashPrince: u r a sarcastic asshole with no concern for anyone’s feelings 

TheSuperiorBlake: feeling real attacked right now 

 Trikru: square up Murphy 

NurseGriffin: listen here children of Satan  

Jaaaaaaaassssppper: rude 

 TrashPrince: fair 

 NurseGriffin: Being Bellamy's car back and leave money for the broken window in the glove box OR SO HELP ME I WILL CALL ALL OF YOUR MOTHERS 

 TheSuperiorBlake: jokes on u I don't have a mother 

Guns&Roses: this just got real sad real quick 

NurseGriffin: don't bullshit me Octavia Blake 

We all know Indra is ur step-mother 

 TheSuperiorBlake: INDRA IS MY BADASS FAIRY GODMOTHER WHO TURNED ME INTO A KICKASS WARRIOR PRINCESS WHO DOMINATES THE SOCCER FIELD UNDEFEATED U COW I WONT STAND HERE AND WATCH HER BE DISRESPECTED LIKE THIS 

NurseGriffin: GIVE BELLAMY BACK HIS CAR 

MillertheKiller: NOT UNTIL U ADMIT U LOVE HIM 

Greenbean: speaking of the freckled wonder...

 He's taking this rather well 

 TrashPrince: Doubtful 

He probably had a heart attack in the middle of his meeting He's probably being resuscitated as we speak

*Operation Fake Out*

NurseGriffin: Bellamy, the platonic love of my life

U beautiful cinnamon roll

my pseudo lover

Iliad: Is this about my rover?

NurseGriffin: Oh so u are still getting the group messages?

Iliad: Getting them? I crawled into the back of my car to grab a book I needed to return while I was back at the library and APPARENTLY MILLER DIDN’T SEE ME AND HAS STOLEN MY CAR WITH ME IN IT!!

NurseGriffin: OMG

FOR REAL??

Iliad: No I just like being a drama queen

OF COURSE I’M FOR RHDKWNFIJINWIFJUP

sorry, I hit my head on the seat when miller hit a speed bump

NurseGriffin: I’m calling Kane

Iliad: Please don’t. I don’t want to have to explain why Miller’s blood is all over my car.

NurseGriffin: Bellamy I love you, but I’m not waiting for you to get out of prison if you murder Nathan.

Iliad: After all we’ve been through??

I’m hurt Clarke

NurseGriffin: Our fake relationship is not built to survive prison

Iliad: You’re supposed to be my ride of die!

NurseGriffin: ur about to die riding in your stolen car without a seat belt

*IceIceBaby direct messaged Iliad*

IceIceBaby: why is ur car speeding through the school parking lot like it’s a Fast & Furious moment?

AND WHY WASN’T I INVITED TO RUN FROM CAMPUS SECURITY IN THIS EPIC MOMENT DUDE!!

Iliad: because i’m not driving my car

IceIceBaby: damn dude

ur missing out then

I’ll put the video on facebook for u

Iliad: my hero -_-

*Operation Fake Out*

Iliad: Clarke listen

Miller is driving my car so fast I can hear pieces falling off

Campus security has been chasing us for eight blocks

The entire Arkadia police force is probably gonna be here any second with a helicopter and I will inevitably be shot out the windshield like a rocket in the next few minutes

So in case I go out like a human bullet, there’s something I gotta tell you

NurseGriffin: Is this about the time u cheated off me in math?

Iliad: That never happened

And if it did, I wouldn’t waste my final breath on it

I’ll pay for that *hypothetical* sin in the afterlife

Iliad: I really didn’t want to tell you like this

I had it all planned you know

We were gonna go to the botanical garden and I was going to sit you down in a secluded little spot and tell you... which sounds kind of cliche now that I’m saying it.

I don’t know, I guess I always pictured it surrounded by flowers so I could tell you they didn’t compare to you

NurseGriffin: what’s happening right now?

Are you proposing to me?

Iliad: Clarke I’m in love with you

For real

I kinda, sorta, suggested the fake date thing so you’d see I could be a good boyfriend and maybe, you know, wanna date for real.

NurseGriffin: u tried to trick me into dating u??

Iliad: Not mfhrnedifnrkfkj

NurseGriffin: O MY GOD BELLAMY ARE YOU OKAY????

BELLAMY??

*Delinquents*

MillertheKiller: ABORT MISSION

ABORT MISSION

OH MY GOD I’M GOING TO DIE

SAVE YOURSELVES!!!!!

TheSuperiorBlake: what’s happening?

Iliad: MILLER DROVE MY FREAKING CAR INTO A POLE TO AVOID CAMPUS SECURITY

WHILE I WAS IN THE BACKSEAT

HE’S NOW RUNNING DOWN THE BLOCK SCREAMING

HE HAS 5 SECONDS BEFORE I TEAR HIM LIMB FROM LIMB

maybe  a little longer, I hit my head really hard and then threw up climbing out the back window

NurseGriffin: why aren’t u answering my texts u jackass???!!!

i thought u were dead!!!

u can’t just tell me u love me and then not respond to my texts!!!

Greenbean: BELLAMY TOLD U HE LOVES U????

Guns&Roses: wait, but aren’t u dating someone new???

Trikru: i was trying to tell u that he was going out with clarke but NO ONE WAS LISTENING!!

TheSuperiorBlake: YOU KNEW AND DIDN’T TELL ME???

Trikru: i mean he never actually admitted anything but i had my suspicions

TheSuperiorBlake: all the guys minus jasper and monty are uninvited from the Amazon society

Lincoln especially

TrashPrince: WHAT DID I DO??

TheSuperiorBlake: i don’t know

and i don’t care

NurseGriffin: guy!!! not now!

Bellamy are u ok?

Iliad: i can smell colors

everything tastes like blood

NurseGriffin: where are u? I’m coming to get u

Iliad: don’t know

everything is spinning

MillertheKiller: two miles outside of Arkadia

can u get me too?

NurseGriffin: walk u cretin!!

u almost killed Bellamy

this is ur punishment

NurseGriffin: Bellamy stay where u are! I’m coming to get u!

Iliad: oh is it time for our coffee date already?

NurseGriffin: no ur going to the hospital

Iliad: not as fun but probably for the best

[exoscenarios3]

Who I Was. (MarkxReader) Pt.5

Pt.1, Pt.2, Pt.3, Pt.4, Pt. 6, Pt. 7

A couple of months have passed, and we were on the plane, headed to America. Sora was unable to make it, due to her schedule for Twice. Harper was sitting next to me on the plane. She nudged me, making me look at her.

“You and Mark are getting kinda close. YOu two would be so cute.” She said, wiggling her eyebrows.

“Have you forgotten that he has a girlfriend?” I say, raising my eyebrow at her.

“I know he has a girlfriend, I wa just saying.” She shrugged, leaning back in her seat.

“Jinyoung is nice.” I mention.

“How many times have you talked to him? Like three times?” Harper said, giving me a look.

When we landed, there were fans everywhere. They crowded around us, screaming and taking pictures. Everyone was so calm, but I started to panic.

“There’s a lot of people here.” I say, hanging onto Jackson.

“Are you going to have a panic attack?” He asked, concerned.

“What? Me? I’m not panicking, are you panicking? Is it getting a little hot in here? Wow, there’s a lot of people here.” I say, panicking. Jackson pushed through the crowd, trying to get away from everyone.

“Here, shut up and eat this.” He said, handing me a chip from the chip bag he was holding. I took it, and ate it. he kept handing me more, until I calmed down.

“Good job, Jackson.” Mark said, impressed that that actually worked.

“What? Do you think this hasn’t happened before? I know what to do, she is my sister after all.” Jackson said, cockily.

“We still aren’t related.” I say, making Mark laugh.

“And how do you know that?” Jackson asked, helping me into the car that was waiting for us.

“Jackson, how many times are we going to have this conversation?” I asked, as the car started moving to the direction of the hotel.

“What if I told you, you were my half sister?” Jackson said, trying to convince me otherwise.

“I would tell you, you’re insane.” I say, making everyone laugh.

We arrived at the hotel, and checked in, making our way up to our rooms. Harper and I were sharing a room.

“You can stay in Jackson’s room, I don’t mind.” I say, as we get settled in.

“I might tonight... I’ll keep him occupied if you find a cute guy.” She laughed.

“Ha ha, very funny. But thanks. I’ll never get a boyfriend with him always saying he’s my brother and stuff.” I said, making her laugh more. “I think I’m going to go walk around the hotel for a bit, wanna come?” I asked, hoping off the bed, and started to make my way out of the room.

“Nah, I think I’m gonna take a power nap. Traveling makes me extremely tired.” She says, already crawling into the bed.

I left the room, and shut the door quietly, starting to walk down the hall.

“Okay, I’ll talk to you later, beautiful.” Mark says, into his phone, before hanging up. When he looked up from his phone, his eyes met mine, and he smiled. “What’re you doing out here?” He asked.

“Just walking around the hotel.” I say, starting to walk again.

“Oh, I’m walking too. Let’s walk together.” He said, joining me on my walk down the hallway.

“So, how’s Sora?” I asked, breaking the silence between us.

“She’s good. She’s really busy and stuff.” Mark says, simply.

“Sounds fun.” I said, crossing my arms as we walked.

“You having fun? Now that we’re away from the crowd and all?” Mark asked.

“Yeah, I’ve calmed down a lot since the airport... Sorry you had to see me freak out.” I said, embarrassed that he had to that.

“It’s okay. I’m glad Jackson knew what to do. He said it’s happened before?” He asks.

“Yeah, it happens a lot, sometimes over small things, like being late to an event or something. It’s whatever.” I said, shrugging it off.

“That doesn’t sound like whatever.” Mark pauses for a second. “Hey, since tonight is our free night, me and you should probably go over some Korean.” He suggested, making me groan.

“Oh come on, can’t we do that when we get back?” I asked, not wanting to learn anymore.

“How long has it been since you’ve studied it?” He asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Like a month.” I mumble.

“Exactly, no backing out this time, c’mon.” He took my wrist, and dragged me back to his room. He dug through his suitcase, and dumped out the flashcards we made a while back.

“You even packed them!?” I say, looking at the cards on the ground.

“Yep, let’s get to learning.” He said, sitting on the ground.

We started to go through the words. Mark would hold up a card, and I had to read from it, saying the word in Korean, then translating it to English.  We got one that read ‘키스’.

“Okay, what does this one say?” Mark asked, holding the card up.

“Kiseu.” I say, proud of myself for reading it so well, even though it was a simple word.

“And it means?” Mark questioned.

“Kiss.” I answer, smiling.

“Hm.. What’s that?” He asked, teasingly.

“Next time we come back to the card, I’ll give you a demonstration.” I joked, laughing a little.

Mark laughed as well, and continued to flash different cards. After a few, he went back to the kiss card.

“I think you need to remind me. What is this again?” He asked, leaning a little closer. I laughed, thinking he was joking, turns out he was quite serious.

“You’re serious?” I asked, surprised.

He bit his bottom lip, and smiled. “It’s not like we haven’t kissed before.” He says, innocently, puckering his lips dramatically.  

“Fine.” I said, giving him a peck on the lips.

He chuckled, and pulled me in for a more passionate kiss. That kiss led to making out, and making out led to Mark’s hands traveling around my body. Every part of me was telling me this was a bad idea,  but my body wasn’t listening, I didn’t care.

Mark pulled my shirt over my head, breaking the kiss only for a second, before going right back in. He moved from my lips, down to my neck, his hand squeezing my breasts, soon unhooking my bra. I took his shirt off next, feeling his chest, and abs.

“Is this okay?” He asked, looking me in the eyes.

“Probably not.” I say, bringing him back to my lips.

Let’s just say, thing escalated quickly that night.

~~~

“We shouldn’t tell anybody about that.” I said, leaving Mark’s room the next morning.

He tugged at my shirt, and smirked. “Mhm.” is all he said.

He gave me another kiss, before playfully pushing me out into the hall. I laugh, and happily walked back to my room. I lean on the door, smiling like an idiot.

“Hey, where’d you go last night? You never came back to the room.” Harper said, watching as I plopped down on the bed.

“I was with Mark.” I said, regretting it as soon as it left my mouth, due to the look on her face.

She looked me up and down, and her face lit up with realization. “You and Mark had sex didn’t you!?” She practically yelled.

“What!? No!!” I said, almost as loud as her.

“You’re wearing his shirt.” She said, pointing at the oversized shirt I was wearing.

“So?” I said, trying to shrug it off.

“And no pants.” She said, raising an eyebrow.

“Okay that’s-”

“And you have that hair, and that stupid smile everyone gets.” She pointed out.

“Look, I smile a lot.” I started, but she wasn’t having it.

“You’ve been smiling since you got here.” She said. “You’re still doing it!”

“Stop!” I yelled, covering my face with a pillow.

“What happened to ‘Mark has a girlfriend.’ and ‘Jinyoung’s nice.’? Because it seems like you forgot.” Harper said, being a little serious now.

“I mean, what she doesn’t know won’t hurt her. It’s just a hook up, a one time thing.” I said, trying to wipe the stupid smile off of my face.

“I would be mad, if you two weren’t so freaking cute.” She sighs. “Ugh, if Sora finds out about you two, I didn’t know about the whole thing, got it?” She said, pointing a finger at me.

“I swear, your name won’t even come out of my mouth.” I say, holding one hand to my heart and the other in the air.

“I’m a terrible person.” She sighed.

There was a knock on the door, and Harper got up to get it, letting in Jackson.

“Hey.” He said, sitting on my bed next to me. “What’s up with the look on your face?” Jackson asks, studying me closely. I put my face in my hands, trying to cover my never ending smile. “(Y/N)... Are you okay?” He asked, getting closer to my face.

“We were just talking about girl stuff.” Harper covers for me. “We need to keep talking about it too, so come back later okay?” She said, tugging Jackson out of the room.

~Third person P.O.V~

Jackson walked into Mark’s room, and sighed. “Harper and (Y/N) are acting weird.” He said, sitting on the bed.

Mark looked at him for a second, before answering. “What do you mean?” He asked, sitting down as well.

“Well, when I walked into the girl’s room, (Y/N) had this stupid smile on her face, and when I asked what was up, Harper said they were talking about ‘girl stuff’ and kicked me out of the room... I wonder what’s-” Jackson stopped mid sentence, staring at the ground. “Hey... Isn’t that the shirt (Y/N) wore yesterday?” He asked, holding up the shirt. He looked around the room again. “And those are her pants-” He started, reaching for the clothing, but Mark quickly got up and knocked the pants out of his hands.

“Jackson, we’ve been really good friends for a long time, and I want to say thank you.” Mark said, making Jackson look him in the eyes.

“What?” Jackson raised an eyebrow, in confusion.

“I might have... Cheated on Sora... With (Y/N)...” Mark confessed, after taking a deep breath.

“You what!?” Jackson yelled, ready to hit the boy in front of him.

“But!” Mark said, making Jackson stop mid-slap. “I wanna say thank you.” Mark said, holding his hands up in defense.

“For what? What do you wanna say thank you for, Mark!?” Jackson asked, hands on hips.

“For being there for me.”

“No.”

“For being my best friend.”

“No.”

“And for having my back with this.”

“No! I am not being there for you, I don’t have your back, so just stop talking.” Jackson said, shaking his head.

“Just, get it off your chest, you know, tell somebody.” Mark said, staying calm.

“Like who? Who would I tell?” Jackson asked, growing annoyed.

“Well, not Harper.” Mark said. “Definitely not Harper.”

“Oh god.”

“Anyone but Harper.”

“This is too much.” Jackson said, putting his head in his hands.

“I knew I could trust you.” Mark said, putting a hand on Jackson’s shoulder.

“Can I say something, since you’re getting under my skin a little bit?” Jackson asked, running his fingers through his hair.

“Yeah, anything.” Mark said.

Jackson started hitting him, and Mark did the same. The two just stood there, hitting each other like two little girls.

“Give me one shot at that big head, I’m gonna knock you out.” Jackson said, holding up a fist. Mark backed away, and held his hands up.

“Look, I’m sorry! But it was something I needed.” Mark said, giving up on trying to be calm. “It’s been a whole year!” He whined.

“That’s your problem. You need to figure this out.” Jackson said, before storming out of the room.

~~~

You both kept this up for a whole week. You and Mark always doing things in his hotel room, and Jackson acting weird around Harper, not knowing she knew about the situation.

One day, you and Mark were trying to go over Korean, but like every time you guys tried to study, one thing lead to another, and you two were making out, when there was a knock at the door. Mark stood up, and went over to the door, fixing his clothes a bit before he actually opened it.

He froze when he saw who was standing in front of him. “Oh, uh, hey Sora...” He trailed off, overly surprised to see her.

“Hey Mark!” She sighed, smiling brightly.

“Hey... What are you doing here?” Mark asks, as he motions for you to leave behind his back.

“Well, Twice got done with promotions early, so they said I could come on tour with you now.” She said, leaning up to kiss him, but Mark moved his face away, and hugged her awkwardly. “Oh, okay, I figured you would want a kiss, but I guess not.” She said, kinda suspicious.

“I’m sick.” He said, quickly. As the two talked, you hid in the bathroom, and shut the door quietly.

“So, can I come in? Or are you gonna make me stand out here for the rest of the tour?” Sora asked.

“Oh, yeah, totally, sure, of course.” Mark said, awkwardly. He looked over his shoulder, to see where you were. When he didn’t see you, he opened the door fully, so Sora could come in.

Once she walked fully in, and her back was turned to the door, you bolted out of the hotel room into the hallway, without being seen.

“Are you okay? You’re acting kinda weird?” Sora asked, eyeing him.

“Me? I’m great, I’m just so surprised and happy you’re here.” Mark said, trying to put on a genuine smile.

He sat on the bed, and Sora sat next to him. She made a weird face, as she felt something under the bed. She bent down, and picked it up, scrunching her eyebrows when she saw the bra that was hiding in the room. Mark cleared his throat, as he stared at it as well.

Realization hit Sora’s face, and she stood up angrily. “Okay, I see.” She said, starting to walk out.

“Dammit Jackson.” Mark practically yells, stopping Sora from leaving. She turned around, and gave him a weird look. “It’s Harper’s, I caught Jackson and Harper doing stuff in here last night, I guess she left it.” Mark says. He grabbed the bra, and threw it somewhere in the room. “He can be a bit much, you know.” He said, shrugging. “Let’s go for a walk, and catch up, K?” He wrapped his arm around her shoulder, kissing the top of her head, and leading her out of the room.

[babylon-bitch]

Surprise ~ Just Friends (part 37)

Harper White is best friends with Luke Hemmings, they always have been. Not only is she friends with the rockstar, but with the rest of 5 Seconds Of Summer, as well as a really nice girl named Erika.

Harper has a few secrets, she can play all the instruments the boys play and many more. It’s a talent she has kept hidden, only very few people know.

What will happen to the six teens, wondering around the world together?

Warnings: mentions of self harm and depression, language, and overwhelming fluff

***

I’ve passed my driving test on the first try and now I’m officially road legal. It went really smoothly, didn’t mess up one time, and when I came home I took everyone out for a drive and they said that I was a good driver. All of my immediate family passed their driving test on the first try, so I’m proud to say I kept up that tradition. My grandpa took about 4 attempts, he is an absolute shit driver, he focuses on what’s out the window rather than the road.

It was Ashton’s birthday the other week so we all went out for a couple drinks, it wasn’t a full on night out. We went out to a bar, then came home and had a bonfire whilst drinking some more alcohol. It was very chill, and I liked that. We all have a rule that we don’t get each other gifts, of course if someone got them something we won’t turn it down, but we usually don’t get each other anything. We bought Ashton some shots in return.

Luke’s birthday is coming up soon and I’m trying to organise some stuff for that. We’ve all decided to throw a surprise party for him. I told Liz to take him away for the weekend, that’ll piss him off a lot because his birthday is on the Saturday, so he won’t be able to spend his birthday with his friends, but it’ll be worth it. I don’t exactly know where she is taking Luke, but somewhere away from town. I’m really looking forward to it.

I’ve never been big on birthdays, I’ve never been excited for my own birthday, weather I’m getting a super awesome gift or not, I just can’t get excited, even when I was kid. Luke used to get so offended by that.

“So Calum and Ashton, you go get balloons and like party stuff.” Maddie orders.

“Where do we get those from?” Cal asks.

“There’s a good place in town next to the wig shop.” I suggest.

“And you know that because?” Ashton questions.

“Shut up.” I snap.

“Harper and Michael you go get drinks.” Maddie tells us.

“Ah what?” I pout.

“I really wouldn’t moan when she’s in this kind of mood.” Erika whispers in my ear.

One thing we’ve all learnt is that Maddie is a replica of Monica from Friends. Loves bossing people around, is very organised, and cleans all the fucking time, for fun.

“Anyone got any ideas for what food?” She questions.

“Y-” Michael starts off.

“Okay, so me and my sister made a load of food yesterday.” She cuts Michael off.

“Fucking psycho.” Michael mutters.

“And you sleep with her?” Calum asks Erika and points at Maddie as she lists off names of many foods.

“Unfortunately.” She sighs.

“Salad,” Maddie says whilst smacking Erika on the back of her head.

“Why oh why did I choose her out of all the girls.” Erika mutters with wide eyes as she walks away.

“Erika and I are gonna clean this place as well as move some furniture around.” Maddie explains.

“Honestly.” Erika says with her hands up in surrender.

“C'mon Michael.” I nod my head towards the door and grab his arm.

“Bye guys.” We wave and I fetch my car keys out of my pocket.

Michael closes the door behind him and we make our way to my car. Slamming my door closed and putting my keys into the ignition before turning them, causing music to blast out of the speakers. I quickly turn it off because it was one of my songs.

Is that vaine?

“Why’d you turn it off? It was good.” He whines.

“You barely heard it.” I claim.

“Well it was getting into something and I wanted to hear it.” He pouts.

I ignore him and put on The Pretty Reckless.

Pulling out of the driveway I make my way into town.

“I miss Luke.” I whine and lean my head on the steering wheel as we wait for the light to turn green.

“Geez, he’s only been gone a day, get over it. How did you cope when we were on tour?”

“I didn’t.” I shrug.

“Do you regret y'know that whole thing?” He asks.

“Kinda yeah, I did some things I’m not proud of but it’s made me the person I am today.”

“Wha-what did you do?” He questions.

“I took some stuff I shouldn’t.” I sigh and concentrate on the road. “I got so high one night, I didn’t even enjoy the effect, but I did it anyway. I tried to consume everything I could to forget everything, whether it was forever or just a couple of hours, I needed something.” I tell him.

Michael and I have these chats every now and then. Besides Luke, he’s the only person I talk to about my past.

“What was Luke like?” He asks.

“Well he was worried as fuck about me, seeing your best friend and girlfriend on the floor, unconscious on the floor with blood pooled around her is never something you want to see. Obviously he wasn’t with me in England but it always felt as if he was watching me. He was disappointed in me when I admitted what I did, drugs and all, but you can’t undo the past. I’m here now and I’m healthy.” I sigh. “I’m not proud of it at all and I had my little cousins watch me go through that. They really look up to me, they should’ve looked up to Evie or someone. I’m also a role model to lots of young teenage girls, if they saw how I really am/was I don’t think they would even want to throw a look at my direction. It’s not that I’m fake in the videos Erika and I make, I’m just not that happy and I don’t think anybody could be that happy all the time.”

“I totally agree, I’m not the best role model for our fans and definitely not the best in our band. Most of the time it’s really good to be a role model because you can project all these good things, to the people, but sometimes you just get so tired of putting on a fake smile, acting as if your life is pulled together. I often worry that if they see how I truly am, they won’t like me for me. That’s not to say I’m fake, it’s almost like a different persona.” Michael agrees.

“The only person who I truly think doesn’t put a ‘mask’ on, is Erika. Her life is so simple, name me one problem she’s had, apart from coming out.”

“Uh, sh- no, I can’t think of any.” He furrows his eyebrows.

“Exactly. Erika’s had this smooth life, without any bumps along the way, at least not yet or that we know of. This isn’t being mean in the slightest, just an observation. I can’t help but be a tad jealous of her life so far, she’s got her whole life sorted out.”

“Fucking bitch.” Michael mutters and I laugh.

Pulling into a parking spot and turning the engine off. Grabbing my bag from the backseat before opening my door, waiting for Michael to climb out before locking my car. Swinging my bag onto my shoulder and holding the side so it doesn’t bash me against my leg.

“I bet you five dollars that I’m gonna have to show them my ID.” I bet.

“You’re on, you look 40.” He smirks, causing me to smack the back of his head.

“I hate you sometimes.” I pout.

“You love me really.” He says in an overly sweet voice and a shit eating grin.

Michael pulls me into a hug and I rest my head on his shoulder as we walk.

Pushing the door open to the liquor shop, being hit by a very strong smell of red wine. “Couldn’t stay in here for longer than 10 minutes, let alone work here.” Michael mutters.

“I guess you would become immune to it.” I shrug.

“What type are we going for? Like, Luke’s mum is gonna be there, we can’t just get fucked.” Michael questions.

“Liz isn’t the only adult that’s gonna be there, pretty much Luke’s whole family will be there. Get wine, beer, oh gin, Luke’s grandma likes a gin and tonic, maybe some whiskey.” I suggest some.

“What abouts some champagne?” He questions.

“I mean, sure, I won’t be drinking any though.” I tell him.

“I kinda want to get everyone really drunk and just watch.” Michael snickers.

“Have you ever been at a party or club or something, being completely sober and just watch everyone being stupid and making regrets?” I ask.

“I don’t think I’ve been completely sober, but I’ve been less drunk than others and seen some rather amusing stuff unfold.”

“You should try it some time, it can be better than actually being drunk and part of the whole scene.” I laugh.

We go off on a tangent, talking about drunken stories we’ve had together. By the time we get to the check out, we’ve laughed till our stomachs hurts and I wouldn’t be surprised if I have a abs.

“Can I see your ID please,” the man behind the counter requests.

“Sure.” I mutter and search through my bag for my passport.

Opening up the page that has my picture and information on it and passing it to him.

“You owe me 5 dollars.” I whisper into Michael’s ear.

“You should’ve bet more.” He smirks.

***

“I can create milk, what can you do?” Erika asks.

“Turn alcohol into regrets.” I say.

“Wait, if you and Maddie ever have children, what will you do?” Calum asks.

“I’ll be your sperm doner.” Ashton chimes in.

“I don’t fucking know, I haven’t really thought that far ahead.” Erika exclaims.

“What about you and Luke?” Michael questions.

“We’re the opposite gender, that’s how it works. I’m not having children for at least 10 years, I’ve got school and stuff to do before I even think about starting a family. Plus, I’ve already been pregnant, it’s the most terrifying thing.” I state.

“What was that like? We didn’t really get to talk about it?” Ashton questions.

“Probably one of the worst thing I’ve ever had to go through. Luckily I had Luke and I couldn’t of been more greatful and lucky I had Luke to go through it all with. He was so supportive through it all. It was quite emotional to be honest, I’ve never experienced anything like that, to be quite honest I’m not sure if I ever want to be pregnant again, I’ve never been into that lifestyle, could you imagine me as a mum? I think I’d be way too selfish to have a child.”

“What about Luke, doesn’t he want to have kids?” Calum asks.

“We’ve never really spoken about it. Luke probably does want a child, he’s father-material. We’d have to discuss it all, I need to get to a stable place in my life first, get school out the way, live where I want to, have Luke be able to stay in one country for a good few years.” I tell them.

“So you don’t want to have children at all?” Michael asks.

“There’s probably room for discussion, but it’s never gonna be my priority in life. Of course if I ever had a child, I’d love it to pieces and do anything for him/her.” I shrug.

“What about getting married?” Erika questions.

“Same with that, I’ve never been into marriage. Of course I love Luke so much, but I hate being grounded, y'know? I’m not scared of commitment, I just don’t like that fact that once you’re married, you kinda have to start being a proper adult. I might be open to the idea in the future. It doesn’t mean I don’t love Luke enough to marry him, it’s just not for me.” I sigh. “Do you think Luke will be upset with me?”

“Of course not, have you seen the boy? He’s head over heels for you, Luke worships the ground you walk on, he’d do anything for you, or in this case, nothing. I wouldn’t worry about it, Luke does want children though, not anytime soon of course.” Ashton says.

“I’m here!” The voice of Maddie fills our ears.

“Baby.” Erika grins and walks up to Maddie with open arms.

They wrap their arms around each others waists and embrace each other, before kissing each other.

“Ugh, I want Luke, I miss him.” I pout.

“I’ll fulfill his duties.” Calum smirks.

“Don’t come anywhere near me, Hood.” I warn.

“In all honesty do you think I’d be a good boyfriend?” Calum asks.

“You’re a great boyfriend to me.” Michael winks.

“I’ve never really seen you or Ashton or Michael be all coupley. I used to think Erika and Ashton had something going on, but evidently not,” I say and gesture towards Erika and Maddie who are cuddling and whispering stuff into each others ears.

“That used to piss me off so much when you guys would ship us. Like, Erika is a nice girl and all, but I never liked her in that way.” Ashton comments.

“See how Luke and I used to feel.” I tell them.

“That was different, you guys clearly liked each other.” Ashton says.

“Shut up.” I flip him off.

“Can we start decorating now?” Maddie excitedly ask.

“Sure I guess.” I shrug.

“Okay, Michael, Ashton, Harper and Calum you guys do the garden and kitchen, while Erika and I do the inside.” Maddie instructs.

“Ugh, why can’t we get professionals?” I whine and lean on Calum.

“Because it’s Maddie.” Calum sighs and puts his arm around my shoulders, walking me towards the kitchen.

“Okay, Calum and Harper do the kitchen and Michael and I will start the garden.” Ashton tells us.

I start gathering some fairy lights and stringing them around. “Cal, could you pass me the balloons please?” I request.

“Sure.” He nods and throws them towards me.

“Thanks.” I smile and open the package.

Pulling out a green one and start blowing it up, before letting it go, causing it to fly all over the room. Calum squealing and running out of the door.

I bend over, clutching my stomach in laughter. “Harper!” Calum scolds.

“Sorry about it.” I wink and properly blow it up then tying it in a knot.

Many balloons later I’ve blown most of them up, only a couple left. Going into the garden and having a look at what the boy’s have created. “Looking good guys.” I complement them.

They’ve got fairy lights hung up, banners that say Happy Birthday, balloons in the shape of the number 18, and some other useless things.

“Thanks.” Michael grins.

Coming up behind Michael and pulling apart the balloon opening, making it make a squeaky noise.

“Ah, Harper!” Michael pouts.

Tying the balloon up and sticking my nail into it whilst holding it by Ashton. “Hey, Ash.” I smile and when he turns around I dig my nails in deeper, causing it to pop.

Ashton screams and runs around. “Ash, Ash,” I laugh and try to get him to stop running.

“That’s not cool Harper.” He whines.

“I’m sorry.” I say and hug him.

“You will be,” He smirks as he grabs the hosepipe.

“Ashton Fletcher Irwin! Don’t you fucking dare.” I warn.

“Revenge is a thing, Harp.” Ashton wiggle his eyebrow.

“Revenge is best served cold, Irwin.” I tell him.

“I mean, this is quite cold.” He shrugs.

“That’s not how it works.” I say. “If you spray me, I will not be your friend.”

“Oh no, how will I live without you?” His voice dripping with sarcasm.

“Y'know, sarcasm isn’t very nice.” I say and make a b-line to the back door.

“Harper, could you help me with the tables?” Calum asks as he stands by one end of a table.

“Yeah, sure.” I nod and pick up the other end.

Calum walks backwards as I walk forward, we gently ease it out through the doorway and are met by water being sprayed at us.

“Ashton!” I squeal.

“Dude, the fuck?” Calum exclaims.

Ashton starts to spray some more water from the hose and I start to run away, but Ashton wraps his arm around my waist and pulls me towards him, before pointing the hosepipe at me, some getting him.

“You are so dead, Irwin.” I glare at him and take the hose pipe off him and point it at him, making him scream and run around. “Michael,” I call and gesture for him to come over.

“Yeah?” He asks as he walks towards me. What an idiot.

I quickly shove the hose pipe down his jeans and the look of horror on his face. “Harper you son of a bitch.” He curses and take it out of his jeans.

“Yes?” I sweetly ask.

“You are so getting it.” He shakes his head.

This all turns into a water fight, with all of spraying each other or using each other as a human body shield. Luckily it’s hot as balls today.

“I’m gonna go home and get changed.” I tell them and we all follow each other into the house again.

“What on earth happend?” The voice of two girls ask.

“Didn’t you hear the screaming?” Calum questions in disbelief.

“I didn’t really think much of it.” Maddie shrugs.

“We’re going, see you later.” I say.

“Oh, everything is set up out there, just the food and tables need to be set up and stuff.” Ashton tells them.

“Ew, I can’t handle this anymore.” I whine and take my top off as I walk out the door. “Calum stop staring.”

***

“Liz has just texted me, they’re about 3 minutes away.” I tell everyone.

Everyone starts to crouch down or hide behind some furniture, I turn the lights off, not that it did anything anyway because it’s still quite bright outside, the sun is setting.

“Bloody hell, I’m getting a cramp here.” Luke’s grandmother says after a minute and everyone bursts out laughing.

“Pheobe.” I call as she walks out.

She runs back to me and I wrap and arm around her so she doesn’t ruin it all.

We all hear a car pull up and we all get ready to jump out. Hearing the keys jingle in the lock and voices talking, then laughter.

“SURPRISE!” We shout as they enter the house.

“Oh my god.” He laughs. “You lied!” He says and points to Liz and Andy.

I walk over to Luke and smile. “Happy Birthday, Luke.” I grin and give him a small kiss.

“Thank you, really didn’t expect this.” I says and wraps his arm around my waist. “You look great by the way.” He whispers into my ear.

“Thank you.” I smile and kiss his cheek before letting other people talk to him.

“I’m so glad he’s home.” I smile and observe him from afar with Calum.

“You really love him, don’t you?” Calum asks.

“Yeah, I mean it’s Luke, I’ve known him pretty much my whole life. I don’t think I’d be able to live without him, he’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I’m so lucky to have him in my life, let alone date him. I love Luke with all my heart, if we ever break up, I’d be so broken, empty, and depressed. Luke is my other half, partner in crime, best friend, what ever you want to call it.” I confess.

“I think it’s greatly returned.” Calum smiles making me blush.

After a while everyone has settled down and are in the garden. Luke and I are sitting on the grass, Luke’s sitting with one leg bent and I’m leaning against it. “Kiss me.” Luke pouts.

“No.”

“Why?” He asks.

“Because your whole family is here.” I point out.

“And…”

“I’m not gonna kiss you with them here, let alone watching.” I say.

“Didn’t stop you earlier.” He raises an eyebrow.

“I was excited to see you.” I whine.

“I can go away and then come back again if you want.” He offers.

“I’m not gonna kiss you Luke,” I laugh.

“One kiss.” He reasons.

“One kiss on the cheek.” I tell him.

“Deal.” He smirks.

I place my hand on his neck and lean up slightly before bringing my lips to his cheek, only for Luke to turn his head at the right moment and our lips collide.

What’s the worst that could happen?

I move my lips against his and Luke’s arm holds my waist, while the other one is in my hair.

“Steady on, lovers.” Luke’s aunt says.

We pull apart wide eyed and stare at each other. “I fucking told.” I tell him.

“Sorry.” He smirks and kisses me again.

“I’m gonna hit you later.”

[junker-town]

Shohei Ohtani is pretty good, Andrew McCutchen is a delight, and Tim Tebow is in this headline for SEO purposes

Welcome to Monday, baseball fans. Here’s some baseball.

Can you follow everything that happens in baseball every week? Man, I sure can’t. So every week, I dig back through the archives and tweets and videos and recaps and look for interesting baseball things to share with you on Monday. The best part is that I’ll miss a whole bunch, which is definitely a feature, not a bug. It wouldn’t be baseball if a week’s worth of action could be explained in a few hundred words.

But there are some baseball things that are impossible to miss. Here, then, are those baseball things. While the categories and sections will rotate from week to week, the first one will be an absolute constant. This first section will always posit that ...

Baseball is good, actually

Baseball friends, I promise you that this section will not be a secret way of sneaking Giants-related content into this weekly recap. There were not a lot of times that I watched the Giants last year and thought, “Yes, baseball is good, actually.”

While I’m anticipating a much better season, it’s likely that they are the sixth- or seventh-best team in the National League if everything goes right. This section almost certainly will not feature the Giants very often.

But, sweet Njörðr, look at this at-bat from Andrew McCutchen in the bottom of the 14th inning:

I’ve been hard on MLB Advanced Media in the past because of how they’ve intentionally limited how some of their videos can be shared. Looking for something older than two years ago can be a nightmare. Basically, they never think about me, the baseball writer who needs to lazily embed something whenever he needs it.

But this video is exactly what you need to understand that baseball is good, actually. Someone in charge took this entire 12-pitch at-bat and presented it unedited, allowing you to drink in the mounting tension and expectations, and it was a brilliant decision. It’s not just that McCutchen hit a walk-off home run in the bottom of the 14th; it’s that he directed the whole thing like Kubrick, piece by piece, setting up the reveal at the end.

I’m a sucker for a lot of baseball things, but I’m really a sucker for two very specific baseball things:

Andrew McCutchen

At-bats where the hitter keeps fouling pitches off again and again and again and again and again

This at-bat had it all, really. It started with a muffed strike call, and it quickly went against McCutchen after Wilmer Font fuzzed him with a wicked fastball running in on his hands. If he popped up the next pitch, nobody would have blamed him. Instead, he turned into a living Rocky IV montage, fouling pitches off again and again and ...

One thing that I love about baseball is the idea that all of those foul balls are examples of the hitter failing. Font’s job was to make the hitter not do what he wanted with the ball. McCutchen’s job was to hit the ball somewhere where it couldn’t be caught. Framed like that, Font won. He got McCutchen to do something he wasn’t trying to do.

Instead, it ended with McCutchen hitting a dinger and reacting with a broken water main of emotion that had been building pressure since the first pitch. It was mostly perfect.

And maybe — maybe — the fact that it was against the Dodgers in the 14th inning will color my judgment just a little bit. But I’d like to think that if McCutchen were on the Twins, and he did this against the Rays, it would be just as notable.

Because look at that museum-quality at-bat. Carve pictographs of that at-bat into the side of an interstellar probe and let alien civilizations learn about baseball.

What Shohei Did

Well, this section sure feels a lot different this week.

Last week, it was still okay to be cautiously optimistic about Shohei Ohtani. He had one quality start under his belt, albeit with a ton of strikeouts. He was 1-for-5. This all came after a rough spring. So you’ll forgive me if prudence was the better part of valor in this case.

And then Ohtani started firing lighting bolts out of his eyes and demanding our fealty. Yes, yes, we cried. We are yours to do with as you wish. We’re so sorry, Shohei. How could we have been so blind?

The Shohei-o-meter just seven days ago was stuck on “timid,” and we spent an hour on the phone with tech support trying to get it unstuck.

Shohei-o-meter: half-Luis Castillo, half-Gregor Blanco

See, he was a wild, unproven fireballer with a .200 average, so I thought ... look, forget it. I was wrong.

Let’s update that Shohei-o-meter:

Shohei-o-meter: half-Tim Lincecum in his prime, half-Bryce Harper

THIS IS WHAT WE WERE PROMISED.

Deep breaths. Stay with me. But it’s completely okay to freak out.

This doesn’t mean that we’ll keep getting it all year. He could be half-Vince Velasquez, half-Eric Thames, where the early returns are drowned by a tidal wave of baseball being extremely hard.

Still, if you can’t get excited about this fastball-splitter combination, you hate baseball and are already googling “2019 Oscar frontrunners.” Look at this marvelous baseball player:

That is peak Tim Lincecum. I saw it. I lived it. I breathed it. He doesn’t know exactly where the ball is going, but he knows two things: The fastball goes fast and the splitter goes prrrowwwwww down into the abyss. If those two things can hold steady, he isn’t just a Rookie of the Year candidate. He’s a Cy Young candidate.

Maybe we should see him against another team that isn’t the A’s before getting nutty, but it’s worth pointing out that the Athletics are stuffed with solid hitters. It’s possible that they’re especially susceptible to splitters that go prrrowwwwww down into the abyss. All of this still might be a mirage.

Wouldn’t it be a lot cooler if it weren’t, though? Wouldn’t it be a lot cooler if he were a Cy Young candidate every year with a 900 OPS?

It would. It absolutely would.

The best part is that I don’t even have to mention the three home runs in three consecutive games to make you impressed about Shohei Ohtani. Because peak Tim Lincecum was just about the most exciting thing I’ve ever seen, so if he’s already that, he’s a baseball legend.

Ohtani hitting dinger after dinger, though, is the kind of thing that’s going to melt our hearts and follow this story wherever it goes. He’s even better than advertised right now. That’s probably not going to last, but what if it does?

John Sterling calls a famous home run throughout history

It is high! It is far! It is gone!

Sho-hei can you see? By the ball’s distant flight!

What so proudly we hailed, at that pitch’s last gleaming!

it’s so cold in here, is anyone else cold, i’m freezing, i’m not proud of this, please get me a blanket, why is it so cold

THIS WEEK IN “AW, RASPBERRIES”

Good things can happen when you put the ball in play. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯#walkoff pic.twitter.com/wKJRkLrM7i

— MLB (@MLB) April 8, 2018

aw raspberries

A grown man bought this baseball card on purpose

This was $1 plus shipping, and I bought it for a couple reasons. The first is Ted Williams. The second is that Ted Williams is about to hit Mike Epstein with a bat because of his sideburns.

Is it possible that Williams had such incredible bat control that he could can hit someone with a bat and make it hurt, but not incapacitate them or cause lingering damage? Is it possible that he could hit someone with a bat just hard enough to make their sideburns fall off but cause no other injuries?

No, it is not possible. It is absolutely guaranteed. He could hit you with a bat on the back of your ankle and make you sterile for exactly eight years if you wanted. He was just that good. And if you think that’s hyperbole, look what popped up when I was looking for the above image on my computer:

When you opened that box, Ted Williams would pop out and hit you with a bat until you were temporarily sterile. And you were fine with it. This is how things were done back then.

Also, I think it’s fine and normal to have a file called “Ted Williams condoms.jpeg” on your computer and not remember that it exists. It is absolutely fine and normal.

This week in McGwire/Sosa

It’s the 20th anniversary of Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa transfixing the country with their historic chase. It’s also the 20th anniversary of:

McGwire: 21 AB, 0 HR (4 total), .333/.438/.429 Sosa: 27 AB, 1 HR (2 total), .400/.444/.600

The race is still nothing at this point. Sosa had a hot week, but he had seven singles and two doubles mixed in. McGwire was hitting like an especially focused Chone Figgins.

Later in this season, enough baseball things would happen to make someone decide to make a Mark McGwire/Sammy Sosa diecast semi-truck.

At this point in the 1998 season, though, they’re just a couple of baseball players, doing normal things. Sometimes they hit the ball, and sometimes they don’t. That’s how you play this wacky game, ha ha. No big deal.

Also, because of this stupid article, I finally bought one of those trucks on eBay. I hope you’re happy.

Let us study this baseball thing

The U.S. Olympic men’s curling team got to throw out the first pitch for the Twins’ Opening Day. That’s incredibly regional and exciting and regionally exciting. It’s also exciting for the rest of the country because, heck yeah, gold medal curlers. It’s an honor for them, and it’s an honor for us.

What could possibly go wrong?

I can't stop watching the gif of the gold medal-winning US Olympic curling team throwing out the first pitches at the Twins home opener. It's the most inspiring thing I've ever seen. I'd read an oral history about this. pic.twitter.com/7FWhRZ6wO9

— ℳatt (@matttomic) April 6, 2018

Oh, noooooooooooo.

The crowd reaction to USA men's curling team first pitches in MN yesterday pic.twitter.com/5WZarp0GNE

— That Dude (@cjzer0) April 6, 2018

nooooooooooooooo

The good news it that we get to study this baseball thing. For it started with such hope and optimism.

Anyone can throw a first pitch in a baseball game. But it takes a special person (or group of people) to get the enter-from-center-field-to-throw-a-first-pitch treatment. Gold medal winners get that treatment. The downside, though, is that expectations are incredibly unfair. This isn’t something that’s blurting out of the loudspeaker while people are finding their seats. This is something that’s supposed to be watched.

If you watch the video, at 2:17, the guy in the middle, Tyler George, turns to his teammate and says, “Ready?” He’s fired up.

EDUARDO ESCOBAR: [record scratch] Yep, that’s me. You’re probably wondering how I ended up in this situation.

You can see how it’s George who screws this all up. He throws the ball first, and he almost kills Tyler Kinley, there only because of the Byzantine red tape of the Rule 5 Draft. Because Kinley has to protect his face, the second-from-left pitcher looks much worse than he otherwise might have, though it’s not like he did himself any favors. The guy on the right throws a gull-killer that almost leaves orbit, too. It’s an incredible mess.

For my money, though, I’m most impressed by the commitment of the fellow who decided to “curl” the baseball and roll it to his catcher. If they had all done this, it would have been funny! Whimsical! And I’ll bet that idea was floated, but I’ll bet George was like, oh, heck no, I get one first pitch in my life, and I’m gonna chuck it.

Because there was exactly one guy rolling the ball to home plate, though, it looked bizarre beyond words. It looked like he was screwing up almost as much as everyone else, even though he’s just doing a bit.

Please acknowledge the calm, collected first pitch of John Shuster, the captain of the medal-winning team. He’s the one on the left, and he threw a perfect pitch that absolutely no one will remember.

“What the crap was that?”, he asks. You’ll notice that there are only four curlers in this picture. That’s because George is already off screen, apologizing profusely for winning a gold medal for screwing up a first pitch.

But I saw you, John. You did well. Proud of you on several levels. Thank you for representing our country. Thank you for knowing how to throw a baseball.

This week in baseball spoonerisms

If I can be an 11th-grader giving a presentation in front of the class for a moment, according to Wikipedia, “a spoonerism is an error in speech in which corresponding consonants, vowels, or morphemes are switched between two words in a phrase.” So instead of “Joe Maddon,” for example, you would say, “Moe Jaddon” and laugh for some reason.

On baseball Twitter, they are very popular and obnoxious but also popular. Every week, I would like to share a baseball spoonerism with you.

But if I’m going to start doing this, I need to start with a bang. I can’t just give you a B-minus spoonerism that I’ve been sitting on for a couple months. I need something big.

Allow me to present ...

I think the important thing to remember is that a cat pooper isn’t a cat that poops. You wouldn’t need to single out a cat for pooping by calling it a cat pooper. They all do it. It’s their thing, man.

A cat pooper has to be, by definition, someone who consumes cats and ... well, you know.

Anyway, the important part to remember is that this section has started out incredibly stupid, and I promise you that every week is only downhill from here.

Internet Christmas for Baseball Nerds

Used to be that I would spend a lot of time digging through the bowels of the internet looking for stuff to put on on Baseball Nation under the heading of “Internet Christmas for Baseball Nerds.” It was just baseball esoterica from throughout the history of the sport, no big deal. Like this book from Johnny Evers from 100 years ago, in which he basically invented modern defensive statistics.

Anyway, this installment comes to you by way of the Library of Congress, which decided to publish a treasure trove of Branch Rickey papers. If you’re a true nerd, you’ll enjoy idly leafing through them, like me. But if you want a hot sample, I’m partial to this one:

Man.

If there’s a happy ending to this story, it’s that Joe Adcock had a 133 OPS+ over the next three seasons, even as he was older and injury-plagued.

Still, that scouting report haunts me. One day, someone will write “not desirable as a gift” about me, and they’ll be absolutely right. I’ll have earned it.

Baseball picture of the week

Stacy Revere/Getty Images

I’m not sure what happened to make Travis Shaw accost veteran umpire Biff Tannen with such venom that someone in an Old Navy hoodie had to come get him, but that’s okay. I don’t want to know. I’m satisfied with the image of an umpire living his best life in the face of a baseball player who is very, very upset for whatever reason.

BRIAN O’NORA: That’s right. Fleetwood Mac’s best album is Tusk.

TRAVIS SHAW: oy, mate, what’d you say?

I don’t think Travis Shaw is from Sunderland, but we can’t rule it out. Anyway, I’m in love with this baseball picture. Look at the disdain on O’Nora’s face! It’s absolutely withering. He does not care what Shaw has to say, and that is probably the best default position for an umpire to take.

Baseball picture of the week (runner-up)

Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images

See, it’s not just that Yoshihisa Hirano is sharing his baseball butt with the world. It’s the Getty-supplied caption that accompanies the picture:

PHOENIX, AZ - APRIL 03: Yoshihisa Hirano #66 of the Arizona Diamondbacks delivers an eighth inning pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Chase Field

[lowers sunglasses until they slide off the tip of my nose]

Man oh man, I gotta see this guy pitch.

Tim Tebow is the Shohei Ohtani of baseball players who can run a power-read option instead of pitch

First at-bat in Double-A where he probably doesn’t belong and it’s a dinger. You might be impressed by Tebow’s incredibly respectful run around the bases. For my money, though, I can’t get enough of the pitcher checking a nonexistent runner at second base twice before he throws the pitch.

Minor league baseball: where everyone is still trying to figure this crap out. Put it on a t-shirt, and send me three of them, please.

Man, this is a weird one to end on. We’re not really going to spend all season following Tim Tebow in Double-A, are we?

No. Because at some point, we’ll have to follow him in the majors.

Until next week!