#i am on episode eight and it finally snapped into place

[hotasfahrenheit]

i may be showing my age* here but everytime i hear TRASH's song Interlude in The On1y One i can't help but also hear Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls

help

*my age, and also my american white girl-ness

[keyaho]

summary: nami gets a bit beside herself. terry's control snaps and he gets a little petty.

word count: 4k

graphics by @firefly-graphics & @cafekitsune

authors note: this is for the brats. not the ones that know they are brats, but the ones where it just....slips out accidentally and you "have to see it through ma boy".

Part One || Part Two

“Stop watching my hands.” 

Nami looked down at the organic chemistry book in front of her. She was sitting at Terry’s dining table, to the left of where he spanked her last night. There were no hooks in the table and sitting somewhere normal felt odd. The numbers had long since blurred and every time she looked back to the problem she was working on she was confused. Reading through the problem from the beginning, she quickly found her place, scribbling with her mechanical BIC pencil until she was at the end when her thoughts began to wander. 

Terry’s eyes were on the television, his body stretched out on the couch. One arm was tossed on top of his head and his black sweats cuffed around the ankles. His shirt was embellished with ‘marine’ in thick white letters. Something was on tv, but she couldn’t remember the name of the series. He was two episodes in and silent about it. You should be studying instead of watching tv anyway. Terry hadn’t taken his eyes off the tv once since turning it on. He hadn’t moved either and the tent in his sweats was getting larger. She had earned her first Play Time.

This was the most relaxed she had been in a while when it came to her studies. 

“What number are you on,’ he asked, finally turning his hazel eyes to her. 

She sat in the chair wearing just one of his shirts. It was currently eight-thirty and Terry claimed to have plans for them later this afternoon. When he learned she needed to study, he took her home to get her study materials, clothes, and anything else she needed. He waited on the couch with arms stretched over the back of it like he lived there. 

Out of twenty questions, the easy ones she breezed through, she had finished sixteen. The last four were multi-step and required a deeper understanding of the material. 

“Sixteen.” She replied. 

“Still?” 

It wasn’t like he was offering to help and she didn’t even know if he understood anything about organic chemistry. Hell, she barely did. Looking down at the smudged paper where she almost erased a hole into it, she sighed, dropping her pencil to rub her temples. 

“You’ve been over there tapping that calculator and shit,’ he sat up just enough to place the tv remote on the table. “I figured you were one from done.” 

He swung his feet to the floor and stood up, but walked towards the kitchen. He opened his fridge as she looked down at the textbook angrily. This was the one class she hated the most. She sat comfortably with a B in it. Just enough to pass for the credit towards her degree. 

He grabbed two waters and walked towards her. Placing one on the table beside her books, he stood behind her. Terry leaned forward, his head resting on her shoulder before his lips found her neck. He had pulled her hair to the side, sucked on her flesh while she tried to focus on the problem at hand and not the one causing a problem between her legs. 

Nami slid her hand to the side. It was the first time her hands weren’t bound or held and she wanted to touch him. She had tasted him twice, but being able to feel him in her hands had her thought’s racing. Perceptive, Terry grabbed her wrist and brought it to his lips. 

“Am I distracting you?” He asked. 

Nami didn’t want to say yes. He had a habit of going into the room and closing the door. That wasn’t what she wanted. 

“No, it’s just….hard.” 

Terry laughed softly and pulled her up from the chair. Turning it so the back was against the table he sat down and pulled her to straddle his lap. His hands landed on her thighs. 

“Pick up the pencil.” 

He pulled her left arm behind her back, keeping it still while the other palmed her sore ass. 

“Work through the problem.” 

He hiked up the shirt until it was bunched around her waist and rubbed her thighs. Pressed up against him this way she had to be still. Nami started from the top and soon realized her mistake from previous attempts. She erased again, correcting herself and finding the rhythm to finish the problem. She double checked her work before moving on, slightly uncomfortable with her arm in his wrist behind her back. Terry’s hand crept under the shirt and cupped her breast, his thumb then worked back and forth over her nipple, tugging it just enough her breath hitched. He kissed along her jaw and neck, tugging downwards on her nipple until she let out a pained sound. Her hips jerked forward and he swatted her ass, his hand leaving her breast exposed and cold. 

“Keep that ass still.” 

Nami began the next problem, cycled through it while Terry reached for her breast again. This time his hips moved. It was slow at first. Teasingly slow. 

“You want to know something,’ he says, his hips bucking upwards as he holds her still, ‘I know this pussy is good.” 

He grinned as she struggled to keep still. “You want to know how I know?” He asked. 

“Yea, Sir,’ she breathed. 

“Because you don’t know what the fuck to do with it.” 

She moaned as his fingers dragged towards her clit from the back. 

“This pussy leaks, drips, and cries. Every time I look at it, it’s so fucking wet You need my dick don’t you?”

“Yessss Sir.” 

“I know. I know.” Terry began playing with her clit, his grip on her arm tightening. “S’okay,’ he slurred, ‘I’m going to teach you.” 

Nami let out a long sigh to disguise her moan. 

“Didn’t I say stop watching my hands?” Terry’s voice snapped her out of her thoughts. 

Nami jumped, wiped the drool on the side of her lip and stared down at her paper. She looked down at herself and realized she had zoned out and imagined him that close. He was still stretched out on the couch across the room from her. 

He flicked his eyes back to the tv.  “What number are you on?” 

Nami flipped back to the previous page, opting for a little white lie, her day dreams had her wanting to make them a reality. Fuck the homework. She wanted him. 

“Nineteen,’ she looked up and saw his eyes on her. Grabbing the calculator, she input the problems components and began equating them on her paper. She’d finish them when she was home and away from his presence, but she wanted to pretend to be trying to finish. 

“When you’re done, come here.” 

Nami’s hand snaked between her legs moments later, just grazing her bare cunt. Fuck. She held a sheet of paper in her hands and since her bag was between her legs on the floor she could-

”Aye!” Terry snapped. “Touch my pussy if you want to.” He looked at her. “Hands on the table.”  

She worked her mouth into a frown as he scolded her. Her eyes narrowed slightly and she sat back in her chair, dragging it across the floor to get closer to the table. She threw her elbow on the table before her arm fell flat on the wood surface. She snatched up the calculator and used it to cover face, pretending to need it that close to use it. The movements were so fluid that Terry’s brow shot up. Oh? 

Who the fuck was she getting an attitude with? Terry thought. 

“Chill.” Terry replied instead, brushing off the exchange. 

Nami looked up at him and gave a shrug, no verbal reply followed. Terry’s hand twitched. Staying quiet, Terry sat up, and grabbed the remote before turning off the tv. Nami suddenly scratched at an itch in him to correct. He had learned early on that when it came to submissiveness, black women couldn’t entirely let go of their attitudes and when they popped up they were often mislabeled as brats. Nami wasn’t a brat. She just had an attitude and clearly it needed adjusting. She was testing his patience. His control. Him. She was testing him. 

Normally, a verbal correction could shape all that up. However, she wasn’t responding to him. Nami replied with her body and it was irking him. This wasn’t about him in the end. She wanted him to react. She wanted his hands on her. She wanted the correction and she had no idea what it looked like. 

“That’s definitely strike two.” He told her. “Why you playin’ right now? You fucking up your Play Time.” 

Terry had planned to indulge in one of her kinks and finally taste that pussy. Why would she want to mess that up? 

"What number are you on, Nami?" With all this playing she had better be done. 

“I’m not done.” 

“Did I fucking ask that?” Terry’s resolve shattered and he stood up. 

Nami watched him approach, his fingers rubbing together to tether himself. His restraint was slipping. He let out a long breath through his nose. 

“No.” 

“No?” He repeated as if giving her a clear chance to turn all this around. 

“No.” Her shoulders shrugged.

 Terry reached out before he could stop himself and fisted his hand into her hair. 

“Get up.”  Terry lifted her to her feet with his grip on her hair. It was just tight enough to guide her to her feet without pulling. He didn’t want to make her cry. Well, not right now. 

He suddenly released her hair and took a step back. His shoulders rolled as he craned his neck side to side, stretching out. She stood there, rubbing the back of her head in just his shirt. He could push her to her knees and have her swallow his load over and over. He could choke her on his dick, spank her until she cried, but she wanted that. This just wasn’t the way to get it. 

Scratching his chin, he took a seat back on the couch. 

“Pack up.” He pointed towards her stuff. “I’m going to take you back home.” 

He dropped her cuffs back into the drawer and stood to go find his shoes. He stepped into his bedroom leaving her there with her mouth half open. She didn’t want to leave, that's not what she wanted him to do. She wanted his hands on her, bringing her to the cusp of an orgasm so she could feed the itch between her legs. Nami wanted him to touch her and move her the way he wanted. Instead, she watched his retreating back.

He didn’t close the bedroom door this time but she knew entering would make things worse. Huffing, she returned to her seat and put her bag on the table. She started shoving her things back into it and didn’t notice that he had stepped to his door and leaned against it, watching her. His arms folded over his chest and let his new toy dangle from his fingers. The leather was cool in his hands, but he was sure once it was used it would warm right up. 

“So you can listen?” He says as she yanks the zipper on her bag closed. 

Nami looked up a full pout on her full lips. “Yes, Sir,’ she whispered. 

“Huh?” He said, cupping his ear. “That apology needs to be as loud as that attitude was. Don’t get all shy now.” He saw her eyes wandering to his hands and he snapped his fingers. “Look at me.” 

“We’re about to talk about boundaries. Cause you are pushing some buttons today and I want to wear that ass out. Last night would be a cake walk. You won’t be able to sit when I’m done with you.” 

“You told me you were about to take me home.” Nami replied. “We can talk about it next time.” If he was going to say something she was going to make him stand on it. She figured that since he was taking her home she could speak freely. 

Big mistake. 

“Nami,’ he sighed, ‘I’m giving you a chance to fix your attitu-’

“I don’t have an attitude.” 

If there was ever a moment for a record scratch now was it. Terry laughed, it didn’t reach his eyes, but the sound sounded joyous. He pushed off the door frame and walked towards her. Nami’s eyes dropped to his crotch. Oh shit. His dick was still swinging side to side as he walked, but it was not hard. Not like she had thought it would be. Not like last night. He was serious.

“Yeah, that shit aint cute.” 

When he was in front of her, she looked up at him. Feeling his body heat as he worked his tongue around his mouth. His jaw ticked and she so badly wanted to reach out and touch him. She hated that rule. 

“I’m not trying to be cute.” 

With some restraint, Terry grabbed her face by the jaw, his fingers pressed into the flesh there as he guided her to sit on the couch. 

“Nami, shut the fuck up.” 

He sat on the table in front of her and she noticed the riding crop across his lap. He grabbed the front of her shirt and dragged her to the floor. She landed in a huff and he tugged on her hair, pulling her head backwards. He saw the pleasure in her face and shook his head. 

“You could have just asked me for this.” He says, his hand smacking her cheek in a test pop. “Is this what you want? You want me to rough you up?” 

Terry his hand tightened in her hair as he stood up, leaving her on her knees. He saw her hands move towards him. 

“Don’t test me, Nami.” 

He was doing a lot of talking, he realized. He was trying to diffuse the tension between them, maybe get back to what he had planned for the day, but she wasn’t making it easy on him. She placed her hands in her lap, clenching them into fists. Terry was swiftly moving this time, the crop dropping to the floor as he brought Nami back to the table. He laid her on her back this time, stretching her further across the wood. Her arms dangled over one side and her legs the other. He stopped talking, moving through cuffing her to the table with ease. She stared up at the ceiling, her chest rising and falling as she began to over think his next move. 

Terry sat on the couch and pulled the table closer to him, her added weight making no difference to him. He placed her feet on the table and spread them apart, ignoring her pussy beginning to glisten. He only stood up to push her shirt up, covering her face. Nami’s body rolled to the side in confusion, trying to shake off the shirt. 

Stinging.

He struck her with the riding crop on the outside of her thighs. Then again and again. And one more time until she realized she was supposed to be counting. The pain had jarred her mind and she couldn’t think clearly. She bit down on her lip to keep from crying. 

The cold leather rubbed between her legs, up her inner thighs, and her legs fell open from the soothing sensation. It was followed promptly by a sharp strike to her inner thigh. 

“Five, Sir, please,’ she begged this time. “It hurts…..” 

“What the fuck does that have to do with me?” 

He switched sides, the crop landing on her sensitive skin on her left. He dragged it down the valley between her breasts and delighted in the way her body shivered. Now, he was getting hard. This turned him on. He couldn’t see her face, but she was shaking her head side to side still, her arms tugging on her restraints. The cold metal cuffs bit into her skin and she almost dropped her foot from the table. 

“Six, Sir,’ she sputtered, the crop landing on the underside of her breast, her nipple nearly swatted. "No, no, no, no,no...." she whined.

She only had four more though she didn’t know it and he was going to make them count. Coming to stand behind her head, he reached between her legs with the crop and stroked her cunt with it. When the leather began to shine with her slick his hand joined by slowly spreading her wet lips apart. Like a flower she opened up, and he thumbed her clit a few times. He wanted so bad to dip his fingers into her and play in her nectar, but again ... she did what she wanted and acted up. 

“Oh, Sir,’ she moaned, hips rising to seek out his fingers. 

He drew the crop back and smacked it against her clit, the scream she let out was loud and sent blood rushing to his dick. He kept her open, stroking her down to her weeping little hole, then using the crop to remind her of the reality of the situation. 

“Eight, Sir,’ she turned her head towards her arm, the shirt in the way as she blinked through the tears. She wanted to enjoy his thick fingers but the crop ruined the sensation just as quickly as it started. 

He applied another hit to her thigh, still stroking her pussy. His fingers were drenched and when he drew his hand away the crop landed just below her clit. Her legs snapped shut around the crop, locking it in place as she cursed. 

“Ten, Sir, please….” 

“Open your fucking legs,’ he growled. “Now!” 

Her legs feel apart slowly, the red skin on her thighs beginning to welt. Terry admired his work, the way she dripped on the table and off his fingers. He left her hooked to the table and retreated to the kitchen for a bottle of water. He looked at her while he drank. Nami was bound to his coffee table like a work of art and if he didn’t have anything to do he would leave her there. Then again, his kitchen was low. He could use a few groceries. Terry soon tossed the empty bottle into the trash and clapped his hands together. Nami heard a jingle of keys and the door opening. 

“When I get back you had better work through that shit.” 

Terry arrived back at the house two hours later with lunch and food for the house. He looked to the table and saw Nami was relaxed, too relaxed. 

Dropping the bags on the table, he placed their food on the stove before tossing his keys, loudly, into the bowl he kept them on the foyer table. He walked to the table where Nami was spread out and pulled the shirt off her head. Big brown eyes, red from crying, stared back up at him. 

“I’m sorry, Sir,’ she whimpered, eyes looking away from his intense stare. 

“You’re sorry,’ he said, kneeling so they were closer to eye level. 

Terry rubbed his hand across her belly, eyeing the welts on her inner thighs. He knew her ass was still sore. 

“Yes, Sir.” 

“It’s not even noon and I’ve had to punish you twice within twenty-four hours.” He stood up and unhook her arms. “Did you work through whatever little attitude you had before I left?” 

Nami sat up with his help and brought her cuffed hands between her legs as she sat up. She rested them on the table, tugging at the hem of her shirt. She winced as her legs stretched out. Her shoulders relaxed and she felt her back slump forward. 

“Yes, Sir,’ she says. 

Terry uncuffed her hands and kissed the inside of her wrists. He kissed up her arm until they were nose to nose. He lifted her head and kissed her briefly. 

“It’s way too early for you to be getting an attitude with me.” Terry grabs her jaw in his hand. “Don’t do that shit again.” 

Helping her up, he guides her to the kitchen and sits her at the counter. She places her hands on the table and he removes the cuffs. Before he walked away he stood beside her and leaned against the counter.

“What do you need from me?” 

She wanted to scream to touch him. Why couldn’t she? It was the only rule that was making her go crazy. 

“A hug.” She pouted. 

Terry smiled and pulled Nami into his arms. He kept her hands between them, flat against their bodies as he cupped the back of her head with one hand and wrapped the other around her waist. She rested against him, hoping for a bit more contact, and sighed. 

“Let’s talk.” 

Terry slanted his lips over her, kissing down her jaw and neck as he breathed in. He then slid a sheet of paper and pen across the island while walking to the other side. She looked down to see a list of kinks, ranging from vanilla to extreme chocolate. She picked up the pen as she sat. 

“Circle what you like.” 

“I haven’t done half of this,’ she admitted, wondering how to even pronounce half of these kinks. 

“Underline it if you’re curious.” He looked down at the paper. “Cross it off if it’s a no.” 

He turned his back to her and began putting away the items he bought. Organized to his liking, Terry shut the pantry door and walked to the stove. He took out his takeout boxes and remembered his order with a chuckle. Both were still warm and he plates them with his back to her. Nami was quiet as she read through the list. Many of these she was curious about and underlined them, kinks she hadn’t thought to be kinks were circled, while she made sure to circle everything she liked. Terry’s phone went off again and he turned his head slightly in the direction of it. Letting it ring, he reached into his cabinet for glasses, using water from the fridge to fill her cup. He brought that first, looking down at the paper while she ran the pen over it. 

“Dirty girl,’ he mumbled. “My hand should be a necklace,’ he reminded her with a smirk. She made sure to circle choking. 

“You’re not supposed to be looking yet.” She pulled her paper closer and used her arm to cover it while she finished up. 

Terry leaned back, giving her space, and turned back to their plates before bringing them over. He had a bowl of pasta, grilled chicken and broccoli, nothing too heavy, this early. Nami breathed in the smell of chicken and looked up. Her smile dropped when she realized what was on her plate. 

Fries. 

Chicken tenders. 

Nami looked down at the plate then back up to Terry. He stabbed his fork into the pasta before bringing it to his mouth. 

“Something wrong?” He asked. He followed her gaze to her plate. “You act like a child, I will feed you like one.” 

Nami pursed her lips, her stomach growled before she could say she wasn’t hungry. Terry smiled, and pointed towards the plate. “Eat.” 

“Do you have ketchup?” 

“The fridge.” 

As she got up, he slid her paper to his side of the island. His hazel eyes raked over the paper, making mental notes of which kinks paired well together, others he’d have to ease her into, and those he’d have to isolate and focus on individually. She was big on lack of choice if her choices of asphyxiation and sensory deprivation were any indications of it. Nami slid back in the stool watching him read through the list. Over one hundred different kinks listed and the anticipation of trying them gave her a tingling feeling.

“We’ll get to these," he pushes the paper back to her. “It’s been two days and you’ve done a lot.” He eyes her, thinking about how much fun they could be having had it not been for her moment earlier. “Does anything we’ve done so far make you uncomfortable?” 

Nami thought back to the moments leading up to now. The online chats, the first lunch, the first night together, this morning ... .all of it, and she couldn’t think of a moment that she wasn’t enjoying herself. 

“I’m confused about something,’ she says, jabbing a fry in the cold ketchup. “I mentioned the type of situation I wanted and I don’t know when one begins and the other ends. Or if-’

”I want you to get used to me as your Dominant, then things will progress. I’m learning about you.” He replies, hoping his answer isn’t aloof. She needed the truth. They were compatible so far. Blurring the lines so soon would end up bad for the both of them. 

“Oh, okay,’ she replied. “I think I get it.” 

“I don’t want you to think.” He says with a shrug, ‘I want you to let me be in control.” 

“What does that look like?” 

Terry placed his fork down. Being questioned was one thing, but Nami genuinely wanted to understand so he couldn’t be upset that she didn’t have blind faith. If anything, he was elated to know she wasn’t going to lie and take whatever he gave her, though he hoped the moment he sunk into her p-

Pinching the bridge of his nose, Terry blew out a breath. “Following my rules. You’ve been good at no panties. That’s more so for me.” He smirks. “The way your ass shakes when you walk by me is undeniable. Know that I am looking at your ass.” 

Nami reached down and tugged on her shirt. “I like making you squirm.” He lowers his voice, the rich baritone sent shivers down Nami’s spine. “I like how wet you get when I touch you. I want you to know I can easily make you feel good. If you listen to me.” 

“Are there more rules?” 

“You know my rule on what color to wear with me. If you don’t have enough I will take you out shopping.” 

Nami nodded. 

“No alcohol. I was worried when you went out. I’m glad you told me where you were. The location on your phone should always be shared with me.” He paused. “When I want you I want to know exactly where you are.” 

“No touching me,’ he reinforced. “That is an earned privilege.” 

Nami wanted to press why, but the look in his eyes changed her mind. “Yes, Sir.” 

“You’ve already learned that that pussy is mine. Don’t touch it without my permission.” He wanted her wet and weeping by the time he fucked her. He wanted her pussy sore from just the thought of getting fucked. 

Their plates emptied quickly and Nami sipped on her water. 

“Most of the spaces we will be in together, I require you to be seen and not heard.” His tone grew serious. “I frequently visit play parties, mostly to see what’s new and whether or not it’s something I would do. Usually I am alone, but you’ll be going with me. Those nights I can’t be your boyfriend.” At those parties, Terry lurked in the background. He tried to avoid being the center of attention, but once one person saw him and spread it, there was no hiding. 

“Do you participate?” 

“Are you interested in voyeurism? Do you like being watched?” 

“No, Sir,’ she says. 

“Then no. I don’t.” 

He didn’t seem to mind that she realized. She tried to think of more questions but she wanted Terry to push her limits. She knew her safe word. 

“Nami.” 

She looked up, her curls wild as she pushed them over her shoulder and behind her ears. She was so fucking pretty. He remembered her tears and the way they ran down her cheek as her body sought more from him, betraying her displayed emotions. He wanted that again. The tears and the way her body sought more from him with each swat to her smooth skin. The way she choked on his dick the first night, how her throat just opened up to swallow him. 

“Above all, I need you to trust me. You have your safe word.” 

Taglist: @nayaesworld @peachbuttetfly @harmshake @heauxvibez @avoidthings

@mymindisneverhere @sabrina-carpenter-stan-account @eilujion @heytaewrites

@browngirldominion @insidefeelingofanadult @blackerthings @gwenda-fav @brandithecrystalgem

@captainwithoutmakingitlove @dremmmm @kindofaintrovert @thegreatlibraryofalex @jimmybutlrr

@beenathembo @kuromiish @virgomess @bbyxgall @theereina

@randomhood @ash-ketchumzzz @dundienominated @gg-trini

[rosinbae]

attention ⋆ delinquent?

◜✧◞ PAIRING ─ kim taerae x male!reader

◜✧◞ SYNOPSIS ─ ever since he can remember, jang y/n has always had a crush on park hanbin. every other day he simply couldn't help but giggle and kick his feet at the sight of him, but now as his senior year begins, he finds his feelings for someone else, specifically his best friend kim taerae, to be much stronger than any feelings he could have had for park hanbin.

◜✧◞ LINKS ─ masterlist | previous | next

y/n knows how bad of a person others think he is.

he hears the whispers from the older people who live in the neighborhood, people say he's stuck up, a troublemaker, delinquent, all that nice stuff that he enjoys overhearing as he listens to jeonghyeon complain about his boring love life on the phone.

he stopped getting offended after a while, he learned how to get used to it.

ever since dad left, moms barely been home. she used to be able to work the morning shift but now she has to work from eight pm to six am as a nurse practitioner to make extra money for her two sons. when she is home, she's asleep due to having sleepless nights.

eunwoo constantly reminds him to not do anything which gets mom upset, says she's too stressed out with saving lives all night.

y/n constantly replies by saying he doesn't do anything that upsets mom, the only reason their relationship is strained is because of his sexuality, and his friends, and how she sent him to a summer camp instead of helping him when he went through his depressive episodes.

he loves his mom, he really does, but he struggles to have a good relationship with her after all that's unfolded these past few years.

he feels like he doesn't even know her anymore.

his mind wanders as his thoughts become much more depressing than usual, but he quickly snaps out of it when he hears jeonghyeon yell.

"please! you'd never!"

"oh i would!"

jeonghyeon and hanbin arguing is normal, y/n simply blinks and his eyes shift to the side. that's when jeonghyeon pushes his shoulder, making him yelp. "y/n!"

"huh, what?"

"think about this for a second" jeonghyeon starts. "taerae" he places his hands on said boy's shoulder. "and junhyeon" he finally states, and the older looks surprised by those words.

"junhyeon?"

"oh you two would totally be cute!" woonggi exclaims. "we have to set them up!" he jumps up in excitement, but taerae simply chuckles and shakes his head.

"i don't think so".

jeonghyeon immediately looks surprised when y/n says that, but taerae looks even more surprised at the words.

"i mean—" y/n pauses, laughing to himself as he tries to find a way to explain it. "they do look cute, but.."

"but?" jeonghyeon tilts his head, tightening his grip on taerae's shoulders, which makes the older one wince. "you disagree, y/n? i would love to hear your opinion on this pairing?"

jeonghyeon i am literally gonna kill you—taerae says with his eyes, and the lee simply giggles, nudging him with his elbow. "come on y/n, give taerae some advice".

y/n momentarily glanced to hanbin, who quickly covers his mouth to laugh. "well i— i just don't think they're that compatible, that's all".

y/n doesn't know what this weird feeling that keeps circulating around his stomach is. he has no kind of hatred towards junhyeon, he doesn't! he just doesn't know why he feels so weird about thinking about them as a couple.

it's not like taerae's his boyfriend or anything..

"oh?" jeonghyeon raises an eyebrow, and taerae quickly pushes his hands off his shoulders. "not that compatible huh?" he says to himself, giggling at a certain thought he was having.

woonggi looks between the two. from taerae to y/n, to y/n, to taerae again. "um" he presses his lips into a thin line. "seunghwan said he was gonna pick me up today so.. i kinda have to go".

"yeah i have to" hanbin pauses, looking as if he's searching for an excuse. "my mom told me to get home early! right jeonghyeon?" he grits his teeth as he grabs the younger's arm.

"what?" he asks, but then he makes an 'ah' face. "oh right! yeah! um.. were gonna make cupcakes!"

taerae narrows his eyes at the obvious lie, but he simply nods. "alright, bring us some".

"oh we will!"

"we totally will!"

hanbin drags jeonghyeon out of the room and the younger waves at him.

taerae blinks, taking off his glasses as he rubs his eyes. "look at us" he says, "getting an early start with our calculs tutoring".

"please go easy on me" y/n begs sarcastically, a small pout coming to his lips. he feels himself have a pain in his stomach when taerae pulls out a calculus textbook.

"can't make any promises".

taerae smirks and y/n just laughs.

it's only seven pm.

it's funny how a tutor session with taerae taught him more about calculus than his teacher ever has in a double period. his mind is drifting away as he walks home, completely forgetting all he did in his day because his only focus is getting home safely.

opening the door with his spare key, y/n almost immediately jumps when he sees his mother right in his face, standing there with a look of disappointed look on her face.

"hi mom" he says. he knows that stare, that stare which means she's gonna yell at him for something that he probably can't control or accuse him of doing something that he can't ever fathom doing. "everything okay?"

"y/n" she asks, taking in a deep breath. "it is seven o'clock, where the hell have you been?"

"at school!" he immediately says. "i went to school like normal and after school let out i went to the library to study".

"to the library?" she questions, as if she can't believe such words. "y/n, who spends four hours studying?"

"i was being tutored" y/n replies, he can't even believe that his mother would think he's lying, even after all the times he tried. "do you seriously not believe me? what else would i be doing?"

"i don't know y/n, what else would you be doing?" she asks accusingly, crossing her arms as she straightens her work uniform. "it's not like i know you anymore, you could be doing anything! probably hanging out with those stupid boys—"

"my friends aren't stupid!" y/n takes in a breath, realizing he'd yelled at his mom. "they're better than you, they actually care about my well being! do you think your being a good mother by accusing me of literal crimes? like you've done thousands of times before?"

"i'm looking out for you!"

"looking out for me? you don't do that! because your afraid i'm going to be like dad!"

his mother goes silent, taking in a deep breath as she covers her face with her hands. he was right, he knew he was by her unconventional silence.

"i'm just.. i'm going to sleep" he mutters, walking past his mother and running up the stairs.

he does slam the door to his room, obviously.

he's upset.

◜✧◞ TAGS (open):

@jinkiseason, @big-uwu-stan, @harus-simp, @zerobaseonefics, @hwangsm1le

[egg-emperor]

What's your opinion on the Sonic Prime Eggmans? /gen

Do I get to talk about regular Eggman too? At first I thought this was asking about him and I really wanna gush about him again but now I realize you probably mean the council more lol

I really loved the Prime version of regular Eggman! It was literally only five minutes worth but a very beautiful five minutes at that. Deem Bristow and Mike Pollock play huge parts of why I love Eggman and find him so entertaining so I didn't know how I was gonna feel about the change but Brian Drummond doesn't do a bad job, he could easily become my next favorite voice after them if he worked on it a little more.

I enjoyed how simplistically enjoyable Eggman was. Funny and silly and getting up to evil to find and steal the paradox prism and use it in his schemes. His ambition and motivation to take over the world there strong as ever and talking about wanting a world that's more him in neon was cute, I like and am fascinated by bright colors and pretty lights and want everything to be about you too Ivo dhfisbgjsbgkdh

I love the classic bickering and scolding Orbot and Cubot. I love how he tricked Sonic and went the route of taunting him then targeting his best friend Tails to piss him off enough to bait and make him snap for his plan to work, being a real bastard and calling him "stupid as Tails is ugly" lol. I loved how happy he was for it to work and how he laughed maniacally and looked like such an adorable evil bastard doing it!

Everything I love about Eggman was intact there and I was looking forward to seeing more. I expected it was gonna have the vibe of my favorite parts of X as that's what that five minutes felt like and that's exactly what I've been wanting for years, for modern Eggman to come back in a show and be just like that. I really miss Prime Egg and I wish he would come back but they threw him out in the first ep :(

He was so beautiful and charming and entertaining 🥰

I miss hiiim but I'm gonna bet that he won't return in any form beyond the prismatic titan until the very end of the show or something

As for the Chaos Council, I unfortunately have much less to say as I'm personally not a fan of them. The concept certainly had the potential but the execution is lacking. They just don't have a lot going for them, they're kind of just generic character archetypes such as Baby, Teenager, Hipster, Old Man, Not Eggman, etc. They don't have regular Eggman's personality and charm and are just like strangers in his skin.

I really wish I could like them more but both their designs and personalities don't grab me. For that I only watched the first eight episodes and never watched the second batch besides the prismatic titan Eggman parts. I'd at least have been happier if they had kept regular Eggman with them, as depicted in the concept art as he was going to be a part of the council but they decided to rid of him completely.

The most cool and interesting part of Prime to me outside of regular Eggman to me is New Yoke City. I always love seeing a world taken over by Eggman and I'm a huge sucker for the dark controlled industrialized polluted dystopian hellscape where there's propaganda everywhere on the walls, orders and rules constantly being enforced through the robot patrol saying stuff like and over PAs blasting through speakers

It's an "Eggman" ruled and controlled place, a dark shitty oppressive place and people are just mindless zombies and slaves to the harsh system because they feel hopeless to break out with no freedom, controlled, restricted, and watched. The way it's spelled New YOKE city so it sounds like "yolk" like egg but is potentially a reference to a "yoke", a type of leash to control cattle, fits how they're oppressed and controlled was right up my alley.

Seeing the real Eggman in a place like that leading the Chaos Council would've been so cool. Then it could've looked like the concept as the version that I liked a lot more than the look of the final for all the regular Eggman designed inspired assets, it even has the beautiful neon and cool lights like he wants! And I just love how much it looks like Eggmanland hehe. I really wish they'd tapped into that potential.

[selene-writes]

Hellfire Series: Wendigo- part 3

Hi guys here is the last part of this episode! I am so excited. Chapter warnings include swearing, violence, and death? Thats about it, I think. (W.C- 1795)

This is an 18+ fic

When morning finally arrived, the five of you went deeper into the forest. 

“Dean, Jane!” Sam called out from up ahead. You hurried to catch up, Dean following close behind. As you approached, you saw Sam staring up at something in the trees. Following his gaze, you noticed large, bloody claw marks etched into the bark of several trees ahead.

“You know, I was thinking with those claw prints, so clear and distinct, they were almost too easy to follow,” Sam remarked, his voice uneasy as he scanned the area.

Suddenly, a deep, menacing growl reverberated from behind you. You spun around, heart pounding, to see Hailey and her brother staring into the dense woods. The leaves rustled violently, and a shadowy movement caught your eye in a new spot further into the forest.

Hailey’s scream pierced the air, snapping your attention back. Whipping around, your heart sank as you witnessed something heavy hit the ground with a sickening thump.

You rushed over to Hailey, adrenaline coursing through you. There, sprawled on the forest floor, lay Roy’s lifeless body. His neck was twisted unnaturally, and he was dead.

“His neck is broken,” Dean stated quietly, his voice heavy with frustration. You exchanged a quick, solemn glance with Sam.

The growls from the forest intensified and you all turned to look. Your stomach turned as you realized; it was hunting you.

“Run!” Sam’s urgent voice made everyone immediately begin to run. Dean's voice echoed throughout the forest, his voice firm and resolute.

“GO GO GO!” Dean shouted as you bolted forward, leading the way with Dean and Hailey close behind. The forest blurred past as you pushed your legs to their limits, desperate to escape the unseen monster behind you. 

Trees whipped your face as you ran as fast as possible but just as you thought you might have gotten away, the creature leapt down from the tree canopy. You look up in sheer horror and try and shield yourself, but it's too late. The creature knocks you over, and you fly across the forest, hitting your head on a tree. 

The last thing you heard was Hailey's scream, darkness descended swiftly as your consciousness slipped away.

You awoke with a groan, gradually opening your eyes to the dim surroundings of a small, dark cave. A throbbing pain in your head. Looking around, you realized you were bound with rope, and suspended by your arms. To your right was Hailey, and on your left was Dean, with another man beside him. The cave floor was littered with skeletons, some old and some disturbingly recent.

As you struggled against the ropes, a growl from the cave's entrance froze you in place. Fear gripped your heart as the wendigo entered. It was a terrifying sight—over eight feet tall, completely hairless with a mouth full of razor-sharp teeth stained with blood. You shut your eyes tightly, willing yourself to remain silent and still as it approached, its repulsive warm breath almost overwhelming as it stood in front of you.

Moments passed like hours, and then it turned away, exiting the cave. You released a pent-up breath of relief but continued to struggle against your bonds. Suddenly, a sharp snap echoed through the cave as part of the ceiling caved in, with Sam and Haileys brother falling through.

“Ugh!” Hailey’s brother exclaimed. Sam sprang into action, helping him up and surveying the surroundings filled with bones.

“Jane!” Sam called out, rushing towards you. “Are you hurt?”

“No, just get me down,” you replied urgently. Sam deftly cut the ropes holding your arms, and as you began to fall, his strong arms caught you. “Thanks,” you breathed out. Standing shakily, you watched as Sam awakened Dean and helped Hailey’s brother attend to her.

“Are you guys okay?” you asked, scanning their faces for any signs of injury.

“I’m fine. Where is it?” Dean asked, his face marked with sweat and dirt.

“It’s gone for now,” Sam reassured, glancing around the cave. Hailey and her brother were fixated on a limp figure hanging from the ceiling. They approached cautiously, Hailey’s eyes brimming with tears.

“Tommy?” she uttered, reaching out to touch his face. With a start, he stirred awake, causing Hailey to gasp and step back before embracing her brother once more.

“Cut him down,” Hailey instructed, turning to Sam. He stepped forward with a knife, swiftly freeing Tommy.

“Hailey?” Tommy murmured weakly, looking up at his sister. Dean rummaged through the duffel bag nearby, retrieving the stolen gear.

“Hey,” Hailey choked out, tears streaming down her face. “It’s okay, we’re gonna get you home.” As you leaned against the cave wall, trying to steady yourself, Dean pulled flare guns from the bag.

“Check it out,” Dean announced, displaying the flare guns to everyone. “Flare guns.”

“That’ll work,” Sam chuckled

You were all standing now, cautiously moving forward through the cave, each step echoing softly throughout the darkness. The air felt thick and heavy,  and all of you remained on edge. You keep watch alongside Dean at the front of the group, with Sam watching the back.

As you approached what seemed like the tunnel leading to the cave's exit, a low, ominous growl reverberated through the passage. Your instincts kicked in, adrenaline surging as you readied your gun. "Someone's home for supper," you muttered, your grip tightening on the weapon.

Dean took charge, stepping forward confidently. "We'll never outrun it," Hailey's worried voice came from behind you. Dean glanced back, exchanging a knowing look with Sam. "You guys thinking what I’m thinking?" Dean asked, his eyes darting between you and Sam.

"Yeah, I think so," Sam replied, his expression grim. You glanced at Dean, anticipating his next move.

"Alright, listen to me," Dean instructed, turning back to address everyone. "You guys stay with Sam and Jane. They’re gonna get you out of here." His gaze lingered on Hailey, as she asked the question on everyone's mind. "What are you gonna do?"

Instead of answering directly, he winked at Hailey. "It's chow time, you fucking bastard!" Dean yelled, sprinting ahead. "Yeah, that's right, bring it on baby! I taste good!" He signalled for the rest of you to go in the opposite direction. 

The growling grew louder, echoing through the tunnels as the monster drew closer. "Right here!" Dean's voice rang out, drawing its attention. If you all survived this, you swore you'd give Dean a piece of your mind.

Sam urged everyone forward, his voice urgent as he kept his gun pointed. "All right, c’mon. Hurry!" you urged, motioning for the others to move swiftly through the dimly lit labyrinth.

"Get them out of here," Sam instructed Hailey, gesturing towards her brothers. Hailey hesitated, clearly torn.

"Sam, no!" she protested, her voice desperate.

"Go!" Sam's voice was firm, leaving no room for argument. "GO!" Reluctantly, Hailey nodded, turning to lead her brothers down the tunnel..

"You too!" Sam turned towards you, concern etched on his face.

"Fuck no," you replied defiantly, holding your ground. There was no way you were leaving him on his own. Sensing that it was pointless to try and convince you, Sam let out a sigh and nodded.

Suddenly, the noise of approaching footsteps jolted you both into action. You grabbed Sam and pulled him against the wall near another tunnel entrance, cold water from the cave ceiling dripping down around you. "C’mon," you thought, heart racing.

The creature's steps stopped suddenly, causing you to tense. You turned slowly, heart pounding, and there it was—towering, over you. Without hesitation, you and Sam spirited away, narrowly avoiding its sharp bite as Sam turned to fire a shot, narrowly missing.

You caught sight of the others up ahead in the tunnel, Hailey calling out anxiously. "Jane? Sam?" she yelled, glancing back towards you.

"GO GO GO!" you shouted urgently, waving them forward as Sam grabbed Tommys weak form from Hailey. "HURRY!" Sam's voice echoed through the passage, urgently leading you on. Glancing back, you saw the creature closing in, its snarls echoing in the narrow confines of the cave.

"FUCK!" you cursed aloud.. Hailey screamed as the creature gained ground, its hot breath right behind you. Sam surged ahead, leading the way into another tunnel.

"We've got to climb!" Sam shouted, his voice strained with effort. Time was running out. You and Sam took the lead, shielding the others behind you.

Breathing heavily, you could hear the creature's inhuman sounds growing closer with each passing second. Then, as all hope seems lost, a familiar voice rang out behind the creature. "Hey!"

Turning, you saw Dean, flare gun in hand. A bright ball of light shot forth, striking the creature square in the chest. It screamed in agony as flames erupted, consuming it  until only ash remained. 

"Not bad, huh?" Dean grinned, looking between Sam and you, his expression amused.  

You stood there, leaning against the cool metal of the Impala's hood, exhaustion and relief washing over you. The ordeal in the cave was finally over. The police had taken your statement, Tommy was being tended to in the ambulance, and Dean and Hailey were engaged in conversation nearby.

Sam approached, standing beside you, and you turned to glance at him. A bittersweet smile played on your lips as you watched Hailey kiss Dean on the cheek before she departed with her brothers. You raised a hand in farewell, and she returned the gesture with a smile.

Dean sauntered over, leaning against the hood next to you. "Man, I hate camping," he grumbled, staring ahead.

You couldn't help but snort. "Tell me about it."

"Me too," Sam chimed in, glancing between the two of you. You sighed, taking in the state of your torn shorts, bruised knees, and cuts, all of you covered in a layer of dirt from the cave.

"You all know we’re gonna find Dad, right?" Dean said, his voice carrying a mix of determination and weariness as he finally looked at both of you.

"Yeah, I know that," Sam replied, a hint of exhaustion in his voice. "But in the meantime, I'm driving." He looked at you and then at Dean, a mischievous smile spreading across his face. 

Dean glanced down, regretting his earlier offer. With a resigned sigh, he pulled the keys out of his pocket and tossed them to Sam, who caught them effortlessly.

"Me next," you said with a laugh, teasing Dean.

"No way in hell," Dean retorted, his eyes narrowing at you as he smiled.

As Sam took the driver's seat and started the Impala, you glanced in the rearview mirror, catching Sam's gaze. Your stomach fluttered with a mix of emotions—relief, gratitude, and the weight of everything. The road ahead was uncertain, but for now, you were together, and that was enough.

next part

[theteapotofdoom]

Just found you talking about the ambiguity of the last ep in the Barry tag and I just need someone to scream over this with because none of my other irl or fandom friends watch this show, and I don’t see many people acknowledging the ambiguous ending online either.

Like I have appreciated the incredible craft exhibited in the last couple of episodes and also the profundity with which they have spoken to the cycle of violence, but the tone shift has been so severe I have really had difficulty accepting that they are taking place in reality. The show has always had a surreal tint to it but it has always also felt grounded in its small details. (And the clash between those two things was where most of the comedy lied as well). The last two eps felt so surreal and ungrounded (and similar to other uses of visions and dreams in the show, like when Barry is injured in season 3) that I kept waiting for them to be revealed as a dream. So I was kind of relieved when the show seemed to be snapping back to reality at the end of this ep.

But if it was a dream or hallucination, when did it start? We haven’t seen Barry that clean shaven and young looking for a long time. Were all the plot lines a part of it, or were some of them real? I don’t know what to think, or even what I want to be true. It feels rare that weekly release shows really leave you this unsure in between eps anymore. I am stressed!

Ok that’s all, I appreciate your Barry thoughts.

Aaaaaaah so excited to discuss Barry with other fans!!! I've been a massive fan of the show for years, but I don't think that many of my followers and mutuals watch it so I never truly get to discuss it with anyone.

On the one hand, I don't want the past two episodes to be dreams or hallucinations because I appreciate the bold decision of an eight-year jump. It feels like jumping into the unknown, all of our favourite characters are different people now, and we, the audience, were robbed of eight years of their lives. I don't even know how to explain it adequately, but there is a sense of finality here (and not just because this is the final season). There is no going back. Barry and Sally have a child. That child has a terrible life. Fuchs is now the Raven after spending eight years in jail. Hank has his own empire while still running away from his guilt even eight years after Cristobalt's death. Gene is only now talking to his son whom he shot eight years ago. There he a new status quo now, even if just for only a few episodes. And we didn't get to see it happen. We barely had time to adjust to it.

In a way, this is telling us that there was never any hope of a happy ending for any of these characters and it's SO BRUTAL I can't help but love it. Barry is living in a house with Sally and their kid like he always wanted? Absolutely awful and depressing. Sally writing a show where she is a good mother helping her daughter to get a better life? Well, she is a real mother now and definitely not a good one. Hank doing 50/50 with Cristobal? Nope, he is powerful and rich but on his own, and everyone thinks he fucked over Cristobal to get there.

BUT ON THE OTHER HAND: yeah, like you said and like a lot of people mentioned, there is a certain ... eerie or dreamlike vibe in those episodes that is hard to ignore. Like you just said, the show got us used to Barry's daydreams and hallucinations, so it's something that we were taught to expect from time to time. This is why the end of episode 4 got us speculating like crazy! And this is why even now, as it should be confirmed that is all very real, we still can't help but think "But is it though???"

I like that you said that felt relieved at the end of the episode when it felt like we were snapping back to reality because I kind of felt that too. I know I just said that said I want the time jump to be real because it makes for a better story, but there is something comforting in the idea that it isn't. Because it feels as if the time jump isn't real and it was all a dream, then there is still hope for all our characters. They can still get out of it. Does that make sense?

We will soon see I guess! I also think that it's quite likely that we are all just overthinking everything and we all just got confused because Bill looks younger without the glasses on XD

A last point that I want to bring up is that I feel a lot of David Lynch vibes this season and I love it. It makes a lot of sense, because Bill Hader is a massive cinephile and talks about David Lynch A LOT in interviews, and the influence has never been more present than in season 3 and especially 4 of Barry. David Lynch is the director of the dreams and the surreal. From Twin Peaks to Mulholland Drive, his movies are often about reality and dreams merging, to the point where the audience never truly knows what's real or not. Even in his seemingly more straightforward movies like Blue Velvet, Lynch has a way of filming the most mundane things like an eerie nightmare. The man will show you an empty apartment and you will have nightmares about it for weeks. I really felt the Lynch influence this season and it's super interesting to me.

Yes hi hello I love talking about Barry, Bill Hader we are getting you another Emmy ON GOD!!!!

[hopeful-hugz]

"Weeeeeeell, HELLO THERE and welcome to another hair-raising and thrilling episode of Real-Time Races!"

It's a voice, carrying an announcer's tone of voice, that jolts Melody out of her rather short sleep mode. Scrambling to her feet and glancing around. That hadn't been a voice she knew. Not in the slightest, nor was it a face she knew that popped into reality right next to her.

Donning a skirt and the colorful coat of a gameshow host, he seems to pay her startled yelp no mind whatsoever

"I'm your ever vigilant host, L! Here to bring you only the most adrenaline-pumping of challenges from our lovely contestants!" The microphone he holds is shifted to his other hand, his now-free one pulling Melody in. The FLINCH is wholly disregarded as he continues. "This episode we have a lovely teenager by the name of DLN-000; Melody Raydeo! Recently having been stranded in a barren, frosty wasteland and left to fend for herself, I know she is bound to have the determination to pull through today's challenge!"

The being's three tails sprawl out from behind him, already giving himself away as a Nagete. Much to Melody's clear horror, evidently. She's not able to say much before the host snaps his fingers, teleporting them out to a random part of the planet. "We now come to you from about a forty-eight hours' trek from this lovely lass' camp!" Leah grins, turning to Melody and placing a hand on her shoulder. "My dear, your challenge is simple! Locate and return to your camp within the next thirty-two hours, with just the things in the bag on your shoulder, and I will give you something that will help your chances here GREATLY!"

"N- now wait just a minute-" The android finally gets a word in, moving the microphone put in her face to the side. "I never signed up for any challenge or chose to participate in such a thing! Nor would I; that would pose an unnecessary danger to myself and my mission!"

The protest gets a laugh from the show host, floating into the air as her does so. "OH MY DEAR! Look around you! We're already out here and I am certainly not taking you back, now that you've been chosen!"

He leans in, grinning.

"Sweet, Sweet Melody: You don't have a choice!"

Then he backs back up. "Then again, when have you had any choices on this life-forsaken planet? In the palm of everyone's hands and claws you are!"

"Good luck, my dear~! Try not to become a drone's next little snack; because the challenge ends the moment your ghost leaves that adorable little body of yours!" With an announcement of "CHALLENGE BEGIN" announced through the air, Leah vanishes after saying an outro to no one she can see and the robot master is left out on her own.

And it actually hits her that she's alone, completely and fully. "Oh sweet Asimov, no..."

Nothing left to do but bring up her phone tracker on her hud and follow the signal of the device still at camp. Hopefully this wouldn't be too hard...

[ladyazulina]

Azu is Talking - Just Another Week

It feels like a lazy week but only because I’ve been working really hard with outside world stuff and less with the online side (where, to be honest, it’s my whole life basically). And when I'm back, I need to decompress and let my body relax.

The relaxing part took me the rest of the week, but what can I do when my body is begging me for it?

I’ve decided to withdraw from my Monday class already, but I still scheduled to go to the photo place one last time. Welp, it was not possible. I woke up with an allergy. I spent the morning wearing the reaction down (after it goes through a certain threshold, there’s no going back—I have to ride it to the end), and after it ate up all my energy, I dragged my ragged self to the kitchen because I had to fix myself breakfast or it would just continue rolling south.

Instead of crashing and leaving me K.O., my body decided to change into energy-saving mode. I spent the rest of the day in bed. I’ve finished business with both the [REDACTED] adventure and the book I was reading (though I didn’t start the next one until half the week passed), so I figured I could just… rest and breathe.

Rest and Breathe seemed to be The Main Task™ of the week ‘cause on Tuesday my body went through another… episode, I guess.

I did go out. I was supposed to go accompanied, but while I was dressing, my sister bailed out on me and I had already put the effort into getting up and changing clothes, it would have been a waste to change back and get into bed again, so I decided to just roll with it.

I’ve never had tremors before. My hands tremble when I’m hungry, but I made a point of pausing to eat something before starting the whole adventure. I wasn’t hungry. And my hands weren’t the only ones trembling.

I can’t remember exactly when it started, but I was grateful on the bus to get a chair, and the ride in the subway was a challenge between my will to keep myself together versus my body on the brink of breaking down. Having jumped in the wrong direction line, going up and down two sets of stairs to get to the right platform had me praying and considering if I was capable of asking for help—my muscle legs were shaking so much I thought I was going to fall.

For your information: I am not. When I enter this state, I can only go forward by inertia, the only thing stopping me is reaching my destination.

I tried to. Call a person who was going down the stairs with me, but they ran down the stairs to avoid missing the subway that was already there. Seek the security police on this side of the platform, but that would have required me to let go of all my will busy keeping myself together. So I did not. I’d rather fall. I was so close to it.

But I miraculously reached the photo place and interaction seemed to snap me out of it. I still had leg tremors until I sat down, but I was scared for so long, I needed to destress nonetheless.

I downed a small cup of coffee in case I needed sugar and some water. And stayed until the passport site approved my photo. It just took two takes—that day. I rather not count how many photos total.

My mom insisted that I take an Uber, so I did that and went back home. Finally able to get to the next step in the process. No one wanted to help me choose the day to go leave my biometric data (signature and fingertips), so I scheduled it for the first hour the next day. A whole other adventure.

I didn't get to share it everywhere but my weekly, automatic, Iron Valley, Linney's Campaign post, the last one so far, was live this Tuesday.

On Wednesday, I left home with my mom at six thirty ‘cause she has to be at her job at seven. Or rather at eight, but if she wants a free ride with her sister—they work one next to the other—and avoid traffic, she has to be ready by then. And me with her.

I had to be in Passports at nine.

It gave me time to sit for an hour or so and I got comfortable enough I took off a little late. At the subway station, though, I noticed I didn't have my subway card with me. I remembered taking it out of my wallet the day prior and keeping it in an outside pocket of my handbag for easy access. I didn't need it ‘cause I went back in an Uber. And I never put it back. I didn't bring my handbag but my backpack. And if my mom wouldn't have given me some cash, I would have been short of money. It was supposed to be used for my breakfast, but welp. Stuff happens.

I bought a new subway card and I was so close to running the two blocks to Passport when I arrived at the station. No need, though, there was no one to hold me accountable.

The attention was stressful for a hard-of-hearing person. The people welcoming and directing me were impatient and rude. The areas were so noisy. I was glad the receptionist only made me one expected question because otherwise, I would have lost it. The staff helping inside was nice, or I was looking too close to lose it already. The people managing my biometric process, though… that was awful. I wasn't hearing a word because of the intensity of the noise and they weren't being expressive either. I was on the brink of tears from the frustration alone. We managed, somehow. And I needed three solid minutes before storming out to hold myself together.

Another step of the process done. One full week before returning to receive my passport. Finally. Next week I'll tell you how that certain adventure went.

I stayed in bed the rest of the day, until my partner and I’s ASL class. (We skipped a video without noticing, so now we're one week away from finishing the Essentials.)

On Backstage Thursday, I started the next book on schedule and, to be honest, I'm not feeling it. I thought it was temporary, but I'm understanding the author's choices more than feeling entertained by them. I find small moments I like here and there, but overall, not my type. It's fine, we grow, totally normal. I want to end it just to close the chapter, but if I don't do it with nice emotions, I'll pass from the review. I want to help indie authors, but if I don't have nice things to say, I rather say nothing—not because a book is not for me I have to ruin someone else's experience.

I got to do my themed task though, which made me feel good cause it was the last one of the section and I can start a different one. Cheers for finishing long-term tasks 🥂

On Secret Friday, I made sure everything was ready for Monday, ‘cause the day finally came. My partner is having his birthday tomorrow and it's my first time celebrating it with him. I have a whole lot prepared (and had stressed myself so much trying to keep the schedule), but it's all about to come to life. Some stuff didn't work out, but that's part of life. I'm so excited, we're starting to celebrate today because he'll be gone for a few hours tomorrow and I don't want to miss a single thing. I just planned too much! Maybe I will hold back a bit next year.

I was still checking stuff and tuning everything for Monday on Saturday while getting more solo games to check out. I'm feeling so happy about it, I just hope to get enough time for all of it.

And so, that was my week.

I have the first level 5 English quiz next Thursday. The passport on Wednesday. A possible visit to an embassy to get a visa on the same day. Maybe I'll get an answer from the editor on the [REDACTED] adventure? We will see.

I have nothing against my weekly updates, but I may be writing too many themed posts about particular stuff and it may or may not become the norm in the future instead? Only one way to find out 😉

[fandom-imagines-stories]

Decennial Part One

Season One Episode Eight

Dr. Spencer Reid x Reader

Words: 3884

Series Masterlist

Summary: In the week leading up the ten-year anniversary of your friends and classmates’ deaths, a copycat appears to be picking up where your mother left off. 

Notes: Oh my god guys we're getting there! Here is the two-part season finale! This one is also kinda long and chaotic, so bear with me. I love this series so much and it's crazy that it's coming to an end... Just kidding! I am already working on season two and hope to have it out in a reasonable amount of time! As always, continue letting me know what you guys think! It means the world to me.

Warnings: Panic attacks, violence, trauma etc. etc. 

-

The pounding at the door told him all he needed to know. JJ had called him earlier that evening. There was another body.

And the news had gotten a hold of it. 

He opened the door to your furious, tear-stained face. Reid stood behind you, looking worried and apologetic. 

“Were you planning on telling me?” You snapped, forcing your way in before he could stop you. 

Reid followed you. “I tried to explain,” he exasperated. “But she insisted on coming here and I didn’t think she was in a fit state to drive.” 

“I’m fine, Spencer,” you said, whipping your head back towards him. “I can’t believe you both kept this from me. This is the case JJ was called about, isn’t it? The reason you had to leave dinner.” 

“We didn’t know if it was a case then-” Aaron started, but you didn’t let him finish. 

“But you knew it was connected to me!” The cries made your voice sound warbled, shooting a pang through Spencer’s chest. 

“We couldn’t confirm that what happened at first was connected to your mother,” Spencer said. His voice was soft and pained. Seeing you like this hurt him more than he thought was possible and the fact that he’d kept it hidden from you ate away at his heart.

A bitter scoff rumbled your throat and you turned your burning glare on your brother. “You didn’t tell him who the first v-” The word stuck to your tongue as if it were afraid to escape. “Who the first victim was, did you?’ 

Aaron turned away, running a hand down his face. 

“Did you know them?” Spencer asked. 

You nodded, keeping your eyes on Aaron. “Jeremy Derrickson. My first boyfriend.” You pulled down the collar of your shirt. “The one that gave me this on accident. The stupid scar that started everything!” Your body shook as you spoke and you placed your hands on Aaron’s chest, shoving him back. “And now he’s dead, Aaron! Jeremy is dead because somebody is starting it again. Now someone else is dead too. Who knows who else they’re going to go after.” 

You pushed him again before breaking down. Spencer’s arms went around you to keep you from stumbling. With you trying to fight him off, he led you to the couch and sat you down, keeping his arms locked around you until you calmed down. 

“I can’t do it again, Spence,” you whispered. “I can’t I can’t I can’t. They’re going to come after me. I can’t do it again.” 

He looked up at Hotch, desperate for some kind of answer. You were right. If someone really was replicating your mother’s crimes, then they would mark the anniversary by going after the people that survived. And since your mother had been institutionalized for the last decade- that meant you. 

“Nothing is going to happen to you,” Aaron said, kneeling in front of you. “Whatever this is, we’ll figure it out. The team has been asked to consult, but we’ll have someone sitting on your guys’ apartment. You don’t start work for another few weeks, right?” 

You nodded, huddling closer into Spencer’s safe embrace. 

Aaron continued. “I will find out who’s doing this and I will make sure they don’t get anywhere near you, Y/N. I promise.” 

The tone of his voice was unmistakable. He was angry- possibly angrier than Spencer had ever seen him. His fierce protectiveness had been pushed to the brink and he would take down whoever threatened to take away the life you’d built. And Spencer knew he would follow Hotch to the ends of the earth to help. 

-

Spencer took you home while Hotch called in the rest of the team to present them with the case.  

You kept your head pressed up against the window the whole ride, the sinking feeling in your chest growing stronger by the minute. Someone out there wanted to kill you. Who would they hurt in the process?

And you only had two days left before the anniversary. 

As soon as you got the door open, you flew into your apartment and checked behind every curtain, around every corner, inside every closet. Your chest heaved and your vision darkened at the edges. Spencer dropped his keys on the table and rushed over to you. 

“Hey, deep breaths,” he said. “Here.” He pulled a chair over to you and urged you to sit. “Put your head between your legs. Just breathe.”

You resisted at first, but eventually did as he said. You couldn’t remember the last time you’d had a panic attack and it was scary as hell. The only thing keeping you in one piece was the man kneeling in front of you, taking deep breaths with you until you could sit up again. But as you looked into his eyes, all you could think about was everything you had to lose. 

You pushed away and stood up, walking to the kitchen. Shaking hands opened the cabinet door for a glass. You filled it with water, but no matter how much you had, that itch in your throat wouldn’t go away. 

Spencer followed you, approaching slowly with quiet footsteps. “Please talk to me,” he begged. 

You said nothing and refilled your glass. 

“I know you’re upset that I didn’t tell you.”

“You don’t know anything,” you muttered, finally turning around. 

He took another step towards you. “I know that you’re scared. I know that you probably think that whatever is happening is somehow your fault. I know that you’re less afraid of whoever is doing this coming after you and more afraid that something will happen to the team trying to catch them.” 

“How…” Your mouth opened, but the words stopped in your throat. You set the water glass aside. 

Spencer closed the space between you and put his hands on your shoulders. 

“Because I know you.” 

He lifted a hand to your cheek, brushing tears away with his thumb. You leaned into his touch. He was right, of course. Damn profilers. 

“I don’t know what to do,” you said. 

He pulled you into his arms. “You don’t have to do anything. Like Hotch said, we’ll stay here. Someone will be outside at all times. No one is getting anywhere near this place.”

Your shoulders lifted and your body set itself, almost too straight to be comfortable. Even in his embrace, you hardened. The hysteria vanquished itself from your mind and your two previous outbursts burned away like dying coals. All of the fear, all of the panic was replaced by something stronger- determination. 

You pushed away. “I can’t just sit here and do nothing, Spence. I should be out there with the team, with you and Aaron, figuring this out. What if they come after one of you to find me? I can’t just wait here for that to happen.” 

His hands fell to his sides. “Y/N, you can’t be serious.”

“I know more about his case than anyone else in the world. I’ve studied every last detail.” You ran your fingers through your hair to try and stop their shaking. “I made it my life.” 

His eyes changed. For the first time since you’d seen the news, you stopped focusing on your own fear. His voice cracked as he spoke. 

“Don’t let someone make it your death, too.” 

Spencer’s chin quivered and tears tumbled onto his cheeks. You threw your arms around him, letting him bury his face in your neck as you both cried. He knew it was selfish- you were the best chance they had at understanding exactly what was happening- but he didn’t care. The more involved you got, the easier it would be for the unsub to make you his final target. 

“P-please stay,” he whispered against your skin. “Stay here with me and we’ll be safe.” 

He thought of Elle and Gideon and even his father. The people who were gone. The people he’d lost. He thought of Tobias, of every nightmare where you were hurt or calling out for him. Every nightmare where he lost you, too. 

“Spencer-”

“I can’t l-lose you.” His voice held a desperate terror that even exceeded your own. “Promise me that I won’t lose you.” 

He didn’t care about the numbers or the theories or the human inability to truly control. For once in his life, Spencer didn’t care about the probabilities or statistics. All he knew- all he could wrap his head around- was that if you were here, in his arms, he could stop anything from happening to you and he would do what he had to to keep you there. 

“Okay,” you said softly. “I promise.” 

Standing there, in the middle of the kitchen, you wanted to make it true. You wanted to ease everything on your mind and on his, to do what he said and just stand here in the moonlight and listen to his slow, soothing breaths. 

But the case needed you and you couldn’t do that from behind the doors of your apartment, or in the embrace of the man you loved. Jeremy didn’t deserve to die. Whoever was doing this was doing it for a reason and you were the only one who would understand why. 

Beneath the hum of the refrigerator and Spencer’s quiet murmurs, urging you to come to bed and get some rest, you heard her voice. 

Your mother. 

There was something she used to say when you told her you’d be home at a certain time, or when you promised to be careful when going out with your friends. She would smile knowingly and kiss your cheek. 

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep.” 

-

The team filed into the briefing room. Between Hotch’s grim expression and the late night hour, everyone knew that this wasn’t a regular case, if what they did could ever be referred to as ‘regular.’ A dark tension hung in the air and they could all feel it. 

They took their seats and Morgan glanced around. 

“Where’s Reid?” 

“He won’t be joining us, but he’s already been informed of the situation,” Hotch said. He turned to JJ. “Did you arrange for a team to sit on their apartment?” 

She nodded. “Law enforcement both here and in Fairfax have been updated. They should be sending a car over there now.” 

“Thank you.” Despite the reassurance, his demeanor remained uptight and paranoid. 

“Can someone please explain what’s going on?” Prentiss asked. 

“Fairfax police contacted me in regards to a homicide two days ago,” JJ began. She pressed a button and a picture of a man in his mid-twenties laid on his kitchen floor, his hands crossed on top of his chest. “This is Jeremy Derrickson. He was found in his home on the east side of Fairfax. His neighbor,” she clicked again and another picture, this time of a woman- seemingly the same age- in the same position, “Cheryl Burkieser, was discovered this morning when authorities were canvassing the neighborhood.” 

“Fairfax,” Garcia said. “Isn’t that…” She trailed off, afraid to be right. 

“Cause of death?” Rossi asked, but the churning in his gut already told him the answer. 

JJ’s wide eyes scanned the room, landing on Hotch. He nodded. “Each victim was forced to ingest Strychnine. They would have choked to death.” She clicked again. “There’s one more thing.” 

Now, the screen showed six bodies, teenage girls all laid out on the floor with their hands crossed over their chest. 

The room fell silent. Garcia covered her mouth with her hand. The reality of what this meant weighed on everyone. Morgan stared at Reid’s empty chair. Hotch broke the silence, announcing what everyone already feared. 

“We believe someone is trying to replicate the Lydia Y/L/N murders.” 

“Oh my god,” Garcia cried. She put her hand on top of Morgan’s, if only to have something to hang onto. “Does she… does Y/N know?” 

Hotch gave her a single, grim nod. “We’re posting officers at her apartment. Reid’s with her now.”

Prentiss watched him and her heart sank. He was scared. Really scared. 

“How much danger do we think she’s in?” She asked. 

Morgan leaned forward on his elbows. “If someone is replicating the murders, then they could be trying to finish the job. And since Lydia Y/L/N is unavailable, that leaves one main target.” 

Rossi sighed. “Y/N.” 

All eyes went to Hotch. His expression remained stony, disconnected, while his head was reeling with panic. 

“Which is why we need to solve this as soon as possible. The decennial of the murders is the day after tommorrow and we already have an idea of what they’re doing to commemorate.” He collected his files. “It’s a half hour drive to Fairfax. We leave in ten.” With a tap of the files on the table, he dismissed them, but everyone seemed too stunned to move. 

He went back to his office. 

“Aaron, wait,” Rossi called after him. The older agent followed him into his office. “There’s something else, isn’t there?” 

“We need to get going,” he said, though he could feel his stoicism begin to crumble. Dave put a hand on his arm and waited for the real answer. Hotch sighed. “Our best chances of understanding what happened that day are either in an institution in Oregon or-” He inhaled sharply. “Or she’s the main target of our unsub. The more she gets involved, the more danger she’ll be in.”

“And we both know she’ll want to be involved,” Dave concluded. His expression softened and he gave Aaron a sympathetic glance. “How are you holding up? Seeing those pictures again… it’s a lot to bring back.” 

“I’ll be fine as soon as…” He trailed off, a spark going off in his mind. 

“What is it?” Dave asked. 

“The pictures. The way the bodies were displayed.” He moved to the other side of his desk, dialed a number on his phone and hit speaker. 

“Hello?” 

“Reid, is Y/N with you?” Aaron asked. His voice was forceful, frightening almost. 

“No, she’s in the shower,” he said. “Why? What happened?” 

“Has anyone called her? Has anyone from Fairfax tried to reach out in the last few days?” 

“Not that I know of…” Reid’s voice changed as he understood where Hotch was going. 

“The details of the crime scene were never released,” Hotch explained, looking up at Rossi. “Those pictures would have only been available to detectives on the case or the girls’ families. The unsub displayed the bodies in the same way Lydia Y/L/N positioned the girls when she killed them.”

Reid ran his fingers through his hair. “Y/N knows the unsub.” 

Hotch nodded to Rossi. 

“I’ll go tell the team,” Rossi said. 

Hotch picked up the phone. “Reid, if she gets any calls, messages, anything, you call me immediately.” 

“I know,” Reid let out a low sigh. “There’s a different problem.” 

“What?”

“She blames herself, Hotch,” he said. “She wants to do this herself so that none of us get hurt. I’m afraid that she’ll-” He checked the hall again to make sure the bathroom door was still closed. “I’m afraid she’s going to try and find them first.” 

Hotch’s jaw tensed. He should have seen this coming. “Just keep telling her we know what we’re doing. We’ve dealt with anniversary unsubs like this before. She has to trust us.” 

Another call chimed. 

“Reid, I have to go.”

“Let me know if you need anything.” He paused. “Stay safe, Hotch.” 

“You too,” he sighed. “And tell Y/N we’re going to figure this out.” Aaron switched calls. “SSA Hotchner.” 

“This is Officer Jameson,” the man on the other line said. “You told me to call if anything weird happened while we sat on the apartment,” he said. “And this definitely classifies as weird.” 

“What is it, officer?” 

“Well, I went out to get us both coffee and my partner must have dozed off. We checked in with Dr. Reid and he said no one has been up, but when my partner woke up, there were half a dozen birthday cards underneath the windshield wiper.” 

Hotch’s blood ran cold. “Did any of them say anything?” 

“Yeah, actually. They all have a date on them. Day after tomorrow.” He read over the card again. “And then it says ‘can’t wait to see you then.’ It’s written on all six.” 

“Sweep the building and check the cameras. If anyone has been in or out who doesn’t live there, call me.” He knew it was a longshot that the unsub had gone in, but he had to be sure. Schedule or not, they could have tried to get up to your apartment. 

“Yes sir. I hope you guys can catch this creep.” The officer hung up and Hotch slammed the phone back onto the receiver. 

“I hope so too.” 

-

Spencer had convinced you to lie down. He tried reading to you and playing your favorite record, if only to get your mind off the case long enough for you to get some sleep. You couldn’t have been asleep for more than an hour when your phone rang. 

Your body went rigid, as if your heart knew before your mind. 

“Hello?” 

“Y/N, hey,” the voice on the line sniffed. It was Jackie, one of your former co-workers. “I thought that you should hear from me since you two were so close.” She paused, trying to compose herself long enough to form the words. “Lyla’s dead.” 

You nearly drop the phone. In your stunned silence, Jackie continued. 

“I-I found her in her office… it’s just awful,” she cried. “Her head, oh god.” She had to take another moment to collect herself. “I’m sorry, I-I didn’t mean to say that. I just thought you should know. I’m sorry.” 

You listened to the dead buzz, unable to move.

“Hey, I thought you were-” Spencer started. He’d been talking to the officers about the cards they found, but he didn’t think it best to tell you just yet. Judging by your expression, something worse had happened. 

“It doesn’t make any sense,” you muttered.  

Lyla didn’t have anything to do with your past. She didn’t even know about your mom or what happened. 

They killed her to get to you. 

Her death was your fault. All of it was your fault. 

“What happened?” 

You shot out of bed. Your hands found a few pairs of clothes and stuffed them into your bag. It was only a half-hour drive, but you didn’t plan on leaving until this was finished. 

“Y/N, what are you doing?” 

Ignoring Spencer’s voice, you could only hear Lyla. Telling you about her husband and their two little boys and the vacation they were all going on this summer. Now, they’d have to plan a funeral. 

You threw a pair of shoes into the bag. 

“Y/N, stop.” Spencer grabbed you by the arms, forcing your feet to stop. 

“Get off of me, Spence,” you growled. You tried to push away from him, but his grip held firm. 

“No, I won’t.” His tone was equally as firm and determined as yours. “Who was on the phone? What happened?” 

“Jackie from the college called me, Spencer,” you said. He knew the venom in your voice wasn’t really meant for him, but it still stung to hear it all the same. “They killed Lyla. The sick son of a bitch killed my friend and she doesn’t even have anything to do with my mother.”

He finally dropped his hands and you continued packing. “I should call Hotch.” 

“No,” you snapped. “Let me. In fact, I’ll call him on the way to Fairfax. You’re driving.”

“Like hell I am.” He held up his hands again, this time in a pleading motion. “Y/N, we talked about this. This kind of unsub, you can’t give them what they want and what they want is for you to die like you were supposed to ten years ago.” 

You stopped, limbs going limp as his words sunk into your chest. 

Spencer immediately realized that his bluntness had gone too far. His eyes widened, mortified.  “I-I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that-” 

“You’re right,” you said. “I wasn’t supposed to survive and now people are dying because of it.” 

“That isn’t what I- '' He stepped towards you again.

You step back. “Look,” you knew that if you could reason with his logical side, you’d have a chance of convincing him. “The unsub went after Lyla to find me, right?”

His shoulder slumped, a mix of guilt and defeat weighing them down. “Since she has no connection to your mother’s case, it’s likely that the unsub went to her to find information and when she didn’t give it up…” 

“Which means I’m no safer here than I would be at the station in Fairfax with the rest of the team.” 

Spencer thought about the officers downstairs. If the unsub had already figured out where to find you, it was only a matter of time before they made their move. Maybe taking you to a different location would throw them off enough to catch them. 

You slung your bag over your shoulder. “You can either come with me or stay here, but either way, I’m going.” 

Spencer didn’t say anything. Instead, he just went to his closet, grabbed his go bag and turned back to you. You raised a brow. 

“Well, I’m not letting you go by yourself,” he said. “Hotch is already going to kill me.” You started for the door, but he grabbed your hand. “Wait.” 

“Spencer, I’m going whether-”

He cut you off. “I’m sorry about your friend.” His hand moved to the locket around your neck. He held it between his fingers, watching the way the metal reflected the streetlights outside. “And I’m sorry about what I said. I’ve been trying to detach from the case so I can think clearly, but all I can think about is keeping you safe.” 

You wrapped your hand around his, bringing his knuckles up to your lips. 

“I know.” 

Wordlessly, the two of you grabbed anything else you might need.

Once you stepped out of the apartment, Spencer kept his arm around you at all times, with his other hand near the gun on his hip. He opened the passenger side door for you and you climbed in, eyes scanning every person milling around on the sidewalk. 

“Hey!” One of the officer’s shouted from their car. “What’s going on?” 

Spencer looked back at you and muttered a plea to himself that hopefully wouldn’t lose his job. He turned back to the police car. “Change of plans!” 

Officer Jameson thought for a moment and shrugged, giving him a nod of approval. 

Spence glanced back up at the apartment, the sinking feeling in his chest leaving doubt still burning in his mind. 

“Please let this be the right thing.” 

Not that he had much of a choice.

He got in the car and felt your reassuring hand on his shoulder. At least, with the team, he knew you’d have plenty of protection he trusted. 

As he pulled the car away, another car started its engine, but left its headlights off. It waited until Spencer turned the corner and trailed after him into the dark. 

-

General Tag: @rae-gar-targaryen; @takemepedropascal; @childhood-imagination;  @mylovegoesto; @yellowbadgergirl; @itmejado; @suckmyapplejacks; @kendahl0216; @yellowbubblewrap

The In-Betweens series: @amywright; shesoperfectt;  hereforsmutbcicantgetenough;  violetbossler;  hyper-half-blood;  i-bitch-you-bitch; xcastawayherosx; preciousbabypeter; @jori21; @sol-48

On to the Season One Finale! ->

[writemekpop]

Mommy Needs Some Loving Too | Jung Jaehyun

Pairing: Jung Jaehyun x Reader

Summary: Jaehyun is so busy loving your new baby, he’s forgotten that you need some loving, too. 

Genre: Husband!Jaehyun, New Parents AU, Suggestive

Word Count: 1k

Gif: @jeongjaehyuns

It’s 6PM. You’re lounging on the couch, catching up on some much-needed Netflix. 

Your eight-month-old twins Nina and Jasmine have finally fallen asleep in their playpen on the floor. 

When the leading lady and man kiss on screen, your stomach churns with jealousy. You can’t remember the last time your husband Jaehyun kissed you like that. 

You used to be the couple your friends hated because of your constant affection. But since your daughters were born, Jaehyun has forgotten you completely. You even envy your own children...

The front door clicks open, and the scent of fresh bread wafts in. You smile – Jaehyun remembered to visit the bakery on his way home. 

Jaehyun strolls into the living room, his hazel eyes crinkling as he sees the babies playing. 

“There’s my princess!” Jaehyun says, making your heart flutter. 

You reach out your arms to hug him. Only, he walks straight past you and kneels down beside the playpen.

“How’s my baby girl?”

He places a big kiss on Jasmine’s cheek, and she babbles excitedly. 

You sag, feeling like the plain Jane who no one noticed in high school all over again. You turn away, suddenly sick at the sappy sight of Jaehyun bonding with his child. 

“You didn’t think I’d forget you, did you?” Jaehyun says.

Despite everything, your heart swells.  

You turn, grinning… only to realise that Jaehyun’s talking to Nina. His biceps flex as he holds one twin in each arm. 

He hasn’t even looked at you. 

You leap to your feet, sending the remote on your lap clattering onto the floor. The noise makes Jaehyun turn in your direction. “Y/n, are you-”

But you don’t hear the end of his sentence. You storm straight into the bedroom, slamming the door shut behind you. 

You scrape away your tears with your jumper sleeve, embarrassed that you’re crying about such a stupid thing. 

You notice your reflection in the mirror. 

That’s when you realise. 

You have deep eye bags from sleepless nights, hair that hasn’t seen a brush in days, thick thighs that refuse to slim… of course Jaehyun doesn’t want anything to do with you! 

Pride bruised, you crawl under the duvet. You squeeze your eyes shut and pray you could go back your college days, when you could rock a mini dress and Jaehyun looked at you like you were the only girl in the world… 

When you open your eyes, the sky outside your window is pitch-black. Your chest pangs when you realise that Jaehyun hasn’t checked on you.  

You get up and peer into the twins’ room, the tight coil in your stomach unwinding a little when you see them fast asleep. 

Jaehyun is sitting on the couch in the living room, his damp hair flopping onto his flawless skin.

A memory of his lips grazing the wet skin of your neck as you showered together dances in your mind’s eye. It disappears before you can grasp it.  

Jaehyun glances at you. “Oh, there you are. You haven’t missed much. I’m on episode three.”

You snatch the remote from his hands and turn off the TV. 

“Hey! I was watching that!”  

You snap, “Aren’t you going to ask how I am? Or what I’ve been doing for the last three hours?” 

Jaehyun shrugs. “Fine. What were you doing?”

You smack your hand down onto the leather couch. “That’s not good enough! Jaehyun, you don’t think about me anymore! You… you spend all your time with the twins, and you never ask me how I am, or,” – your voice drops – “or if want to cuddle.”

Jaehyun’s frown deepens. “Are you yelling at me for spending time with my children?”

“No!” Your heart quickens - you don’t want yet another fight. “It’s just… I’m your wife, don’t I deserve your attention too?”

Jaehyun’s plump lips form a tight line. 

“We haven’t been… intimate since the girls were born,” Your voice cracks. “Are you not attracted to me anymore?”

Jaehyun sighs. “Don’t be silly, Y/n, I literally made a baby with you! Two babies!” He flops his head back on the couch. “I admit… I’ve not been in the mood, and I forgot how that would affect you.” 

You sniffle. “I’m not going to force you to have sex with me, Jaehyun. But a cuddle would be nice.” 

“I know…” Jaehyun turns your chin towards him, but you keep your eyes on the floor. He places a soft kiss on your cheek. 

You turn away and hug your knees into your chest. You’re not going to forgive him that easy. 

“I’m sorry, mama. You know I love you,” Jaehyun mumbles into your jumper.  “Please turn around and kiss me.” 

Eventually, you do. 

Jaehyun’s cheeks are dusted pink, and his bottom lip juts out. Carefully, you lean forwards and kiss him. Although your lips just brush, you can feel long forgotten sparks flash inside you.

The kiss becomes more heated. Your tongue slides against his, finding a rhythm of its own. Jaehyun’s arms wrap around your waist and he pulls you onto his lap. 

Kissing down his jaw, you nip at the smooth skin on the base of his neck. You’ve missed the feeling of his pulse under your lips, his hands gripping your hips tight. 

Suddenly, the piercing cry of an eight-month-old rings through the room. 

You bite your lip, failing to hide your disappointment. “I’ll get her,” you mutter.

Jaehyun nods and loosens his grip on your hips, letting you stand.

But before you can leave, Jaehyun catches your wrist. “I won’t ignore you again. Pinky promise.” He holds out his little finger. 

You wrap your little finger around his and give him a small smile. 

“You know…” Jaehyun says, dark eyes twinkling, “the girls are my princesses, but you’re my queen.” 

---

MASTERLIST

[barry-propaganda]

So I’ve finally watched Barry’s episode of Pokémon Evolutions, and I am here to give my thoughts.

I like the two Pikachu wearing the Platinum protagonist hats.

The way Barry seems to be lost in thought a bit when Palmer walks out, and only snaps out of it when he reaches for a Poké Ball; you can just tell he’s thinking about how he’s actually seeing his father in person for the first time in however long.

I noticed that Lucas has this bracelet on his right wrist; I wonder what that is. I think it would’ve been neat if Barry also had one of those; you know, like handmade friendship bracelets.

While on the subject of wristwear, I am surprised they both have Pokétches during the Starly scene, since at least the player doesn’t get one until reaching Jubilife.

Don’t think I didn’t notice the “seriously serious” line from when you talk to Barry outside Oreburgh Gym. I love that they included it.

So was there any reason that Barry’s badge case fell out of his pocket? I mean, besides to show he had all eight badges? Plus, the way it was placed made it seem like he took it out mid-battle to look at his badges and then quickly put it away without making sure it was secure.

I find it odd that Barry mentions Palmer after Uxie is taken away, because I don’t think he does in the games.

I see we are in the Diamond timeline.

“If it isn’t the little boy who ran off crying.” Jupiter, you left the lake first!?

Okay I know they’re both voiced by Kaiji Tang, but I just can’t help but hear video game Detective Pikachu when Palmer speaks.

Also I love the symbolism of Palmer being in the dark, obscured from vision, until Barry wins. Cause Palmer is so busy that Barry thinks the only way to see him and get his attention is through a battle (and winning).

Anyway, I loved this a lot. I’m glad my boy was given this chance to shine.

[lifewithdavefarts]

DaveFarts - Episode 7 “The Noisy Roommate” [Episode List] Tim spends the night at Dave’s house and they have to share the latter’s full-sized bed. As they go to sleep, Dave soon makes sure that it’s gonna be a noisy night.

The episode is inspired by TheFartingWolf’s video/premise of the same name. I had a similar idea sometime ago but I figured I could just combine my story and the video for, I don’t know, a real 4D experience? With that said, I’m ready to delete this story should TheFartingWolf want me to do so.

Also keep in mind that this is not a story about the IRL person who made the video linked above, but rather two fictional characters.

The Noisy Roommate

“Thanks for having me over, bro.” I thanked Dave, while rummaging through my backpack.

This was not the first time I slept at Dave’s house of course, not even the first during our 20s, but this time it truly was a last-second solution. This is not like the shower emergency from sometime ago, though water is involved again somehow.

“No problem dude. I needed someone to help me finish this case of beer anyway.” he said, cracking one open and throwing the can at me, which I managed to catch.

“Always up for it.” and I took a long sip of that cold nectar.

“I’m sorry you almost drowned.” he joked.

“Yeah it was terrible.” I played along.

Truth is that some pipe in my house literally exploded and water flooded the entire apartment. It’s not as bad as it sounds: the leak was already fixed but I still needed a place to stay for the night. I didn’t even have time to call anyone as Dave simply showed up at my place and drove me here.

We sat on the couch to watch some bad movie as we kept chatting about some random stuff and having beer. We were both dressed casually, Dave sporting a pair of grey shorts and a black t-shirt, outfits that doubled as our pajamas, even though Dave was probably gonna sleep shirtless as he usually does.

And again, as usual, I felt some familiar vibrations going through the couch. I rolled my eyes and chuckled.

“Straight to the point, I see.” I commented.

He laughed and slightly leaned, ripping the rest of the 7-seconds rip towards me, without the couch muffling the sound now. I always appreciate how my bud is so casual about my kink and that fart, needless to say, was impressive, despite being “small” for my bro’s incredibly high standards. Also, he basically almost always farted like this even before he knew about my fetish which, again, led me to appreciate more how his attitude towards me didn’t change at all -and he knows very well the “side effects” his blasts give me.

I pitched a tent in my own shorts but I managed to hide it by adjusting my position, crossing my legs. Whether Dave noticed that or not was irrelevant, as he kept ripping a couple of more loud toots.

We resumed watching the TV for like one hour until we both decided it was time to turn into corpses for the rest of the night, so we went upstairs, the beers making us a bit dizzy but nothing serious.

I was familiar with Dave’s house so I headed directly to the guest room, my bud right behind me.

I stepped into the dark room, turned the light on, and I saw it, staring at me from the bed.

Brave Dave was the first one to run away, pulling me outside of the guest room as I hastily shut the door. Team work!

“Okay, Tim. Were you cursed or something?” he asked.

On the bed we both just saw a huge spider, the biggest we’ve ever seen in real life. While we’re not properly arachnophobic, it’s not like *we like* sleeping with spiders hanging around.

We were both manly adult men and so we were both very afraid of the eight-legged monster sneaking out to murder us in our sleep, or simply existing, so the two of us rushed to the kitchen and came back with tons of duct tape to block up every nook and cranny of the guest room door.

“Alright.” I said. “I’ll just use the couch downstairs.”

“Nah bro.” Dave commented. “My bed’s full-sized. You can join me.” and he walked towards his room.

I needed some time to process what he just said. Me and Dave shared a bed many times but that was always before I came out to him. I wonder how-

“Look, I hate to interrupt your inner monologue about self-pity and all” he said, kind of annoyed. “But can we just for once skip your awkward bullshit and head to bed? Thanks.” and then disappeared into his room.

I chuckled a bit as I realized how “formulaic” I was being lately when he more than once proved to me that he had no issues with me, so I followed him. 

The bedroom was dimly lit and he was already lying on his side of the bed, shirtless, showing off some mild pecs and an overall nice-looking figure.

“I gotta warn you: I’m a screamer in bed.” I jokingly said, lying down on my side of the bed, just by the window.

“Oh yesss, scream harder, daddy.” he played along, laughing.

We were both lying down, mindlessly scrolling stuff on our smartphones and reading articles. That only lasted a couple of minutes.

“Well, time for your goodnight kiss” Dave announced, quickly wrapping his legs around me and planting his butt in grey shorts in my face.

I was still lying down as the fart erupted, almost making me deaf for how loud it was, so up close and personal. I couldn’t see the ceiling very well as Dave’s hairy legs mostly obstructed the view. The blast didn’t even smell that much, which made me assume it was on command rather than fully natural; not that it didn’t stink at all of course.

The beer-powered fart lasted about 10 seconds. He wiggled his ass on my face a bit and then let me go/breathe. “I thought you were a screamer.” he teased and went back on his side of the bed, which almost looked queen-sized.

I didn’t say anything and I simply turned my back to him, trying to be annoyed and failing miserably, feeling a faint scent in my nostrils every time I breathed.

“Looks like there’s a leak in my house as well.” he said, right before ripping another thunderous blast, this time far from me. I tried to ignore that, but I still pitched a tent anyway. I didn’t even turn around: I’m not going to let the teaser win!

After a couple of minutes, Dave turned the lights off and the room fell into darkness, the only source of light being a digital alarm clock inches from my face. 1:34 AM, not as late as I thought, but my body didn’t care and I fell asleep almost immediately.

2:44 AM I hear a loud noise and I woke up, only opening my eyes, the alarm clock greeting my sight in a room of pure darkness. Took me a couple of moments to realize that, of course, it was Dave farting, this time in his sleep. I turned around, noticing Dave’s grey pants as my eyes adjusted to the dark.

3:01 AM I was almost asleep as another fart snapped me back to reality, this time even louder. Again I instinctively turned around and stared at my bud’s butt as the blast erupted. Those felt very airy and pretty much odourless I think. I thought whether I should wake him up but I didn’t want him to think that I was listening to his sleep-farting, which is literally what I was doing sadly.

At this point I was playing the jump-rope between being asleep and awake, every time fully waking up because of Dave farting like crazy. After many farts, the blast at 3:59 AM felt particularly powerful and “meaty”, which made me look again at my friend’s butt, somehow noticing his pants moving because of the air being blasted out. A powerful rip that lasted around 11 seconds I believe. Was I dreaming? Similar farts then followed.

4:59 AM This one almost scared me as when I thought it was over it instead became louder and louder, as if it was a train passing nearby. It had a great sound and flow, one of the best I ever heard from my bro.

5:32 AM Another peak in farting activity. Falling asleep at this point was impossible. Each moment of silence was just the quiet before the storm and I completely gave up on the idea of resting that night.

6:21 AM This one was so loud and powerful that even Dave woke up for a moment. He simply sighed in relief though, but when even the farter wakes up, you know the fart was incredible.

6:36 AM A similar blast greeted the first lights of the dawn. 

Even more powerful rips were heard at 7:16 AM and 7:33 AM. At around 8:01 AM, Dave finally woke up by himself, one of his loudest farts acting as natural alarm clock.

That was a long night and as I heard Dave going downstairs to do his morning routine, I figured it was finally time to catch up some sleep, but ironically enough the silence made it more difficult as I was now so used to his blasts that they felt like white noise, fetish or not.

That teasing bastard won and wasn’t even done.

After merely 30 minutes, I heard him jump on the bed. I was facing the window, pretending to be asleep, but I knew he was standing on the bed, towering over me.

“Rise and shine, roommate!”

He squatted over my head, still sporting those grey shorts, and ripped a huge, loud and proud natural morning fart all over my face. I’m kind of glad I was already awake, ‘cause I would have been scared to death by that gas thunder. Where was all of this gas coming from? How was he not done?

I screamed, annoyed, and pushed him on his side of the bed, my hands touching his still-farting ass, the stench being this time unbearable. I heard him laugh like an idiot as he lied next to me, keeping one of his legs up as he finished ripping that loud, long fart.

“So you are a screamer!” he joked.

“And you fart in your sleep.” I replied.

“As if you’d mind me doing that.”

Whether he was aware or not of what happened during the night, Dave was as usual so comfortable around me that he just didn’t care and it was all just a big gassy prank for him. So I just lied there, awake, chatting with my bud about my house looking like Venice, so tired and so exhausted that I didn’t even bother about the spider staring back at us from the ceiling.

End of Episode 7

[hanibalistic]

#F28500 | YANG JEONGIN

genre | fluff, established relationship au, domestic au

word count | 1074

warning | none

note | after jeongin posted a video of him eating a tangerine, i thought i ought to write something about it.

the lemon soda fizzled around the crystalline ice when you set your matching clear cups on the coffee table located a few spaces before the couch, the glass clinking against the tabletop that matched with the sound of jeongin peeling the tangerines and separating them into tiny pieces.

"your mom dropped by with some lemons today. she said she picked them fresh from the lemon tree in their backyard," you informed casually as you reached out and grabbed the cup. "i squeezed the juice out and made lemon soda with the sparkling water we have left."

jeongin eyed up at the table, his brows raising a fraction at the cup before he looked at you. he saw you took a short sip and quickly shivered at the electrifying sensation of the cold and bubbling soda, and you made him laugh briefly before he turned back to peeling the last tangerine in his hands.

"what are we watching today?" you asked when you placed the cup down, your eyes staring ahead at the television.

an unfamiliar show was playing. it wasn't one of those new, cutely polished shows with colorful filters, an average plot but very good soundtracks, and an attractive cast that has mediocre acting skills but was very pleasant to look at so you wouldn't mind sitting through a few episodes of.

it was an older show, possibly a re-run. you have probably gotten glimpses of it when you were much younger and your mother was doing housework with the television playing at the back, and if you asked her right now, she would probably be able to tell you vague details of it.

"i am not sure, but i think it has something to do with family drama," jeongin mumbled as he squinted his eyes at the screen, trying to make out the faces he could only faintly remember seeing once when he was six or eight.

your eyes followed his and you paid attention to the ongoing event as well. jeongin, having finally finished peeling the tangerine in his hands, dumped the skin on the pile he left near the edge of the table and went to separate the fruit. he popped one into his mouth first before he picked two slices off the orange roundness, his eyes not leaving the screen as he reached over to your face.

"tangerine," he mumbled, his focus completely on the dramatic argument on the screen but he managed to feed the fruit slices to you anyway, his fingertip touching the tip of your tongue when he placed the tangerine in your mouth.

"ah! ah!" his excitement suddenly snapped when his memories of the drama flood back. he did watch it once, with his parents at dinner time, when he was younger! "that lady, that old lady in pink is from the stepmother's side of the family! the father, the old man on the bed, cheated but is still in contact with his first wife because he has three kids!"

you chewed the sweet fruit in your mouth, suddenly feeling a sense of distaste for such an unlikely character despite the sugary juice of the tangerine. jeongin, too, gave a little grimace after the influx of information he so enthusiastically spilled it out.

"i bet it is about inheritance drama," you suspected with a hum then.

you pointed at the television, your elbow propped atop of your knee and one foot flat against the floor so you could comfortably lean on your side. "see? i bet that man on the bed is the father and has stage four lung cancer or something."

jeongin giggled at your inaccurate but specific guess, once again peeling another tangerine for himself and two more for you before the fruit was gone from his hands.

"mmm, tangerine," he said, as usual, when he handed the fruit to your mouth, but this time he spared a glance at your face, and he found himself looking longer than necessary.

you took the tangerine between his fingers, your mouth closing around his skin and leaving a faint trace of saliva around him. and how endearingly surprised he was when he found that he didn't think to wipe it off first. all he thought of was if the tangerine was good, if the tangerine was tasty, and that he wanted some for himself too and he would feed you some more as he gets them.

you two have been together for two years now, but still, jeongin was often taken back by how comfortably and seamlessly you both have seeped into a domestic intimacy that he surely would never recover from if anything was to happen to this precious home of his.

he thought perhaps he was surprised only because he was so happy that he has achieved this point in his life where he could be in a casual but solid relationship.

you two weren't as hot-headed as before, where nobody could separate the both of you if they threatened to kill you for it. but the affection never left—it was dwelling, it wasn't as bright as the initial stage when you two first realized your feelings were reciprocated, but it was here and it was gleaming stably.

he never had to worry about where you are now, nor was he thinking about you twenty-four-seven now, and he could actually keep his hands off your body now. you two have gone past that stage already, but what came after wasn't the worry that you two would grow distant, or the stress of having to think of ways to keep the relationship interesting with each anniversary and acts of sweetness.

you two are just together. you two are a couple, a normal couple that is comfortable with each other. you two are just a couple that wouldn't mind a bowl of experimental pasta and an add-on charm necklace as a birthday present, and sometimes it would be hilarious to see the panic in your eyes when he reminded you that he didn't like eating very spicy food after you bought takeout dinner.

and that was enough. the endearment in you just making lemon sodas from the lemons his mom grew by herself, and the intimacy of him hand-feeding you tangerine slices, and the collective nostalgia of you two re-watching a show you both forgot from your childhood memories.

just eating well together, sitting on the floor together, living well together—that was enough.

[storydays]

Season 1, Episode 1,P1

You snickered as you teased Oogie with an apple over his head, making him do a barrel roll in the air, startling the Airbender family into waking up. "Well, glad to see your awake, cause we're about thirty minutes out." "(Y/N), you haven't been up all night again, have you?" Pema asked, a frown on her lip as Tenzin took the reigns and gently blasted you in the back with your crazy cousins. "I-I couldn't sleep." You began handing out the dumplings you and Pema had made. Tenzin sighed as Meelo was suddenly biting his head, with a sudden burst of energy as Ikki began asking constant questions, making the 30 minutes seem even longer.

"Jinora, Ikki, mind helping me out?" You asked with a grin, at the girl's excitement. They loved doing your hair. You sighed softly, as they got to work fixing your hair so it was similar to a water tribe style, with braids placed here and there, before finally putting it in a low pony tail at the base of your neck. Finally, the village was in sight. And you know that waiting for you was your dear Grandmother. You grinned as you used your glider to reach her before your cousins, hearing your cousins cry out in annoyance. "Hey, no fair!" They cried indignantly. Your laughter echoed in their ears as you flew down where you sensed Gran-Gran's energy. Her blue eyes sparkled as she watched you land in front of her.

Gran-Gran laughed joyously as you brushed the snow off your body, flinching as the snow melted against your skin. "Aah! It's colder than a witches tit out here!" You cry out, dropping your glider, in exchange for getting the water out of your clothes, before smiling crookedly at your grinning grandmother. "Sorry for the language, Gran." She chuckled before engulfing you into a hug. "Your grandfather used to say much worse." You took a step back, sliding your glider into the holder on your back. She gently brushed your bangs back, smiling at your bright blue arrows. You had earned your arrows when you were 6 years old, due to your discovery of creating ice puppets out of drawings. 

You had also earned the title of Waterbending Master and Healer when you were eight. 

Making your family proud of you. 

 "Gran-gran, are you trying to make me face Ikki and Jinora's wrath?" You asked, hiding your arrows again. You didn't like the attention that your arrows brought you, and Korra wasn't aware of you gaining them either. You wanted to see how long until she realized it. Which surprised you, as you've been friends with her since you were a year old and she was just born. 

You snap to attention when your grandmother started to speak, "You've grown into a handsome young man, (Y/N). You're strong and goofy like your father, but agile and gentle like your mother." You smile, rubbing your thumb over your father's ring, and your other hand grasped your mother's pendent underneath your airbender robe. It was one of the material things you had left of your mom, but the memories you made with her, are things no one or anything can replace or change.

Your moment was ruined when Oogie landed with a grunt. You could hear Uncle Tenzin talking over Ikki's chipper voice. "Yes, Ikki. As I have been telling you for the last 15 minutes, we are finally here." The three kids cheered as the girls used air scooters to slide down the bison's tail to get off, following their father, who walked tiredly over to you two. "Hello, Mother. I can't tell you how happy I am to see you. Please help me." Tenzin glared at you as snickered. "Hmph, thanks for the help, (Y/N)." The older Waterbender chuckled, as she picked up her youngest grandson. "Unhand me, strange woman!" Meelo cried, flapping around, in Katara's grip.

"That's our grandmother, Meelo." You chuckle as Meelo blush and flipped out of the Waterbending master's hands, and over to play with Ikki as Jinora ran over. "Gran-Gran, I've been reading all about your old adventures. I've been dying to ask you! What happened to Zuko's mom?" She asked clasping her hands together, looking at Katara expectantly. "Well, Jinora, it's an incredible tale--" You didn't even blink as Ikki suddenly hopped in front of Katara's view. "Gran-Gran, you look old! How old are you? And why is it so cold in the South Pole? Can we make a campfire and all huddle around it and tell scary stories and make snowmen? And then can we make the snowmen move with waterbending and chase us? Wouldn't that be fun? Huh, wouldn't it?" You patted Jinora, who was clearly disappointed and sadden she wouldn't get her question answered yet.

You then used waterbending to make an Ikki snowgirl and began moving her in a circle, before laughing loudly. "Sure was fun to me!" You mocked, before the airbender kids decided to chase you. "Wait! My bad!" You cry out as they began gaining on you. Tenzin chuckled before noting Pema slowly sliding down Oogie's back, before rushing over to her. "Pema, let me help you." He grabbed her hand in his, and braced her back against his hand. "Careful now, careful." "Stop doting on me. I'm not helpless, I'm just pregnant." She chided, looking down lovingly at her bump. She loved her husband, but this was her fourth pregnancy, you'd think he'd calmed down by now.

She smiled when her mother-in-law moved forward to hug her. Backing away slowly, Katara placed a hand on her bulging stomach. "The baby's strong. I see another airbender in your future. Pema frowned slightly, before speaking up, startling Katara and Tenzin. "All I want is one child like me. A nice non-bender, who doesn't blast wind in my face every five seconds." Katara chuckled knowingly, as Tenzin pulled at his beard thoughtfully. "Mommy, look!" Meelo called, making the adults look at them. 

Meelo was a snowman, Jinora was air-skating, and Ikki was building a misshapen snowman. "I'm a snowbender!" The child twirled around, sending snow onto Pema, who rose an eyebrow at her son's antics. Turning to the giggling Waterbender, she asked,"Were Tenzin and his siblings this crazy when they were kids?" Deeming it was safe, you landed next to your Gran-Gran, as your grandmother began speaking. "Kya and Bumi certainly were.But Tenzin has always been rather...serious." Katara winked at you and a giggling Pema."Mother..please." Tenzin stated monotone, before peeking behind you with a well hidden gin. 

You were well aware of the girl behind you, but didn't react until her feet left the ground, and your hands moved on their own. You created a snow beanbag chair that caught the surprised girl. You use airbending to hover over a pouting waterbender. "Heyy Korra. " You grinned at her pout. "Aw, how'd you know I was behind you?" She asked, as you gently let her down, and hugged her properly. "I could sense your movement in the air." You let go as she huffed jokingly. "Korra..look at you, so big and strong. You've grown into quiet the young Avatar." Tenzin placed his hands on her shoulders and looked down at her with a proud smile. "Master Tenzin, I'm so glad you're here!" She started, with an eager grin. 

You frown at your uncle's wince. "Yes, well..." He hesitated before looking at Pema, who pushed him forward. "You're going to have to tell her sooner or later." "Wait, tell me what?" Korra asked, her excitement gone. "You're not staying, are you?" Gran-Gran spoke up. Tenzin sighed sadly, as Korra wore an heartbroken expression."I'm afraid not, we're only staying the night. Then I must return to Republic City." "But no, you're supposed to move here..You're supposed to teach me!" "I'm sorry, Korra. Your Airbending training is going to have to wait." Tenzin said solemnly. 

--That night--

"So, how long until you're ready to teach me?" Korra asked at dinner. "A week, a month?" "It could be much longer." You popped a dumpling in your mouth as Korra continued to ask questions. "I don't understand. Why are you making me wait?" "I have a responsibility to Republic City. I'm one of its leaders, and the situation there is very unstable right now. "But you also have a responsibility to teach me. Believe me, I'd be happy to find another airbending tea-" Korra stopped, and looked at you. You were currently feeding your little companion hiding underneath the table. 

Sensing eyes on you, you looked up to find everyone looking at you. "What? Nevermore isn't hurting anyone." Everyone smiled at your bliss. "I didn't even know you brought Nevermore, (Y/N). Where was she hiding?" The baby dragon crawled into your lap, begging for more. "Wait, what if (Y/N) stays here and teaches me the basics of the spiritual side?" "Huh?" You question as your uncle shot the idea down quickly. "No, (Y/N) has his own responsibilities to handle. I wish there were another way." Frustrated, Korra stormed out into the cold, and you counted to 10 before following her with Nevermore, chirping on your shoulder. 

You found Korra talking to Naga angrily. "...don't understand it, Naga!" She didn't notice your presence until you cleared your throat, sensing she calmed down enough to listen to logic. "Oh, hey, (Y/N). How long have you been standing there?" She asked, sitting on a rock. "Long enough. I didn't come here to pick sides, but I do have a suggestion." You knelt in front of her, and gave a soft smile. "Sneak away, tomorrow morning after we leave. If you keep waiting for permission, you're never going to get anything done. You'll be known as Korra, the Safe Avatar." You smirked to yourself, knowing she was thinking over your words. "See ya in the morning,Korra." 

You left her, before walking to the edge of the water, closed your eyes and slowly began dancing, moving your arms and hips, imitating the waves. The ocean began glowing colors, matching your aura, turning different shades of purple. You were surprised to see this new color; whenever you did this, the water stayed the various shades of blue. "Your aura has changed, child." You smile, seeing your Gran Gran standing behind you with a smile. "Hey Gran, I was just--"(Y/N), you don't need to explain yourself to me." She sat down, and patted the snow next to her, and your curled into her side. 

She began stroking your nose with her pinky finger, and humming softly, just like your mother used to. "Rest now. You've got quiet an adventure ahead of you." You smile and listen and somehow find yourself in a dreamless sleep.

--The Next Morning--

You kissed your grandmother's cheek goodbye, and hopped onto Oogi as Tenzin gently commanded him. "Oogi, yip, yip." The bison groaned lowly, before taking off. Your cousins continued waving goodbye to the South Pole, but you caught Korra's eye.  You smirk, before quickly sending a note into her hand. She tilted her head, curious as to what you wrote, and there in your fancy neat handwriting, was a simple: 

'When you come to Republic City, look for the pro-bending gym, and find two guys named Mako and Bolin, and enjoy the show. 

                                                                                                              Catch ya later, (Y/N).'

[rachelbethhines]

Tangled Salt Marathon - The King and Queen of Hearts

The existence of this episode just baffles me, as it undermines so much of what season three was trying to accomplish. 

Summary:  Rapunzel continues to try and restore the memories of her parents, King Frederic and Queen Arianna, and hopes to use the journal of Herz Der Sonne to remind them, but they do not understand the significance. Arianna still lusts for adventure, while Frederic cannot get over his obsession of egg collecting. Rapunzel recruits her friends to try and set up the perfect date for them and while they cannot find anything in common personality wise, they share a mutual love for Rapunzel. However, King Trevor arrives with the intent to woo Arianna using an ocean crystal he found.

So What Exactly Is the History Here? 

We have no context for this sudden love triangle. All we know is that Trevor hates Frederic because he’s still in love with Arianna who wound up marrying him instead. 

But like, I don't know why Arianna married Frederic. I don’t know why Trevor is still hung up on her years later. Did she actually choose Frederic or was it an arranged marriage cause that’s what royalty did back then? Was she having an affair with Trevor this whole time but couldn’t/wouldn’t leave because of duty? Was she and Trevor pining star crossed lovers, or is Trevor just an incel? 

I know what the story wants me to assume; that Arianna deeply loves Frederic and that Trevor is just a jackass loser; but the series has done such a poor job of making Frederic likable and giving him and Arianna any sort of chemistry that I’m inclined to side with Trevor. 

For all we know, he may be trying to rescue Arianna from both her memory loss and her abusive relationship while at it. Especially now that she’s no longer needed as a ruler and has no reason to stay in Corona. 

Why Not Just Use the Potion from Rapunzel: Day One? 

While any Varian cameo is appreciated, it doesn’t add thing to the story. In fact it only raises more questions. We already had a cure for the memory loss, why aren’t we using it? 

Even if we write it off as Rapunzel no longer having that particular Saporian spellbook on hand, she still has a whole dungeon full of actual Saporians who know magic that she could gain information from! There’s also Xavier, who already knows everything under the sun about Saporian/Coronian history and magic and owns spellbooks galore. You’re telling me he just has mood potions lying around but can’t brew up a cure for memory loss? 

Then there’s also the fact that the amnesia spell doesn’t work on Rapunzel’s parents the same as it did on Rapunzel and we’re never given a reason why. Like just some basic consistence is all I ask show. 

I also can’t figure out what Varian is even trying to do here. Where’s is the science to this? What does strawberry goop and lighting have to do with memory? It’s just a cheap reference to Frankenstein and nothing more.  

We’re Already Pass Seven Months Since Rapunzel’s Return. 

Ok, I have gotten into frequent debates with people about the timeline of season three. Many a story board artist and writer on the show have came forward and stated that season three was only one year. But the very existence of this episode disproves them! 

If you remember season one, Hearts Day took place after the Goodwill Festival, but before Queen for a Day. Even when putting episodes back into their intended production order that still remains true. 

Hearts Day has to be at least seven months past Rapunzel’s birthday, if not eight months, because the Goodwill Festival is six months past and her parent’s anniversary (QfaD) is nine months past. 

Now Rapunzel’s Return has to be Rapunzel’s 20th birthday because season two was a full year, and even if you say it’s not, then that still doesn’t explain Once a Handmaiden (the Goodwill Festival) coming after this episode.  

And no you can’t move the episodes around, Once a Handmaiden has be the second to last episode of the series and Under Raps always comes after Rapunzel’s Enemy in any order you watch the series in. 

No matter how you slice it, we’re missing a birthday episode for Rapunzel and season three has to be more than a year; a year and a half at the very least, if not two full years.  

Look I’m not trying to be disrespectful of the talented artists who worked on this show, but their word isn’t law. The very fact that they’ve had to tell us the timeline after the series was over with indicates bad writing, and the very fact that the show itself contradicts them indicates either a lack of communication behind the scenes or a lack of editorial oversight. Either option is just poor management. 

We Have Yet Another Failed Narrative Promise! 

Are we seeing a pattern yet? 

This is the third time in a row where the episode flat out states that Rapunzel needs to learn something and then, just, never has her learn it; four if you count her non-apology to Varian. Instead the show rewards her for her bad behavior by just giving her want she wants on a sliver platter for no adequate reason. 

In fact, one could argue that this episode is the worst offender in the show because divorce is a real thing real kids have to go through. Children that will undoubtedly watch the series. 

How upsetting would it be to such a child to watch Rapunzel force her parents back together  with zero consequences and realize that they can’t do that in real life? It can potentially feed into misplaced delusions or make them even more bitter, either way it’s unhealthy and super irresponsible to tackle such subject matter in this way. Even Sesame Street handled the topic of divorce better than this supposedly ‘mature’ show. 

It’s a Castle! Why Can’t Frederic Get His Own Room?

Frederic is the king. He still technically owns everything even if he’s not the one still in charge. He could have his pick of any room so why is he forcing himself on Eugene? Hell he doesn’t even have to stay in the castle. As pointed out during The Return of the King review, there’s other accommodations within the kingdom that’s suited for royalty. Why not head up to that mountain retreat?  

This is a Really Bad Message 

I understand that this is meant to be a joke, because of how ridiculously over the top it is, but because the series gives Rapunzel what she wants in the end without ever having her acknowledge how she is wrong here, it winds up validating her toxic world view anyways.

Divorce is not inherently a bad thing. We should be working towards both normalizing it and promoting healthy coping mechanisms for those that go through it, adult and child alike. What Rapunzel is doing here is just repeating puritanical fearmongering. And while I can understand why she might behave in this way, I don't understand why the show refuses to call her out on it. Or any of the other million bad behaviors she displays repeatedly through out the show... like the example below for instance... 

Why Am I Suppose to Like Rapunzel Again? 

It’s like the writers don’t understand that a joke can damage a character, especially if it’s overplayed. Super sweet upbeat Rapunzel snapping because she finally met someone who was annoying or a situation she couldn’t just solve with a positive attitude was funny maybe like the first time; but we’re three seasons in and this is supposedly her closest loved ones.  

Look at them! They’re fucking terrified of her! All they did was point out that she maybe should do her job and deal with real problems instead of poking her nose into her parents business where it doesn’t belong! And this brat is now the ruler of the whole kingdom!? No one can legally stand up to her. 

Like where’s the Eugene that stood up to her in Under Raps for trying this same bullshit? Why hasn’t she learned her lesson? She also pulled this same bullying tactic on young Lance and teen Eugene two episodes. Cass left her ass, supposedly, because of her bossy thoughtless ways. And this is also the same woman who abused a child back in season one and still has never acknowledged it. 

Yes characters should be flawed, but they should also face real consequences for their actions, and if they’re a protagonist they need to learn and grow past their flaws. 

I actively started to dislike Rapunzel after this scene. I already felt something was off way back in the season three opener, but this is the point where I stopped and went “What the fuck?” She used to be my second favorite character behind Varian. I didn’t go into this wanting to hate her, even after this episode I still held out hope that they were trying to purposefully lead up to some sort of falling out with everyone and with Rapunzel having to own up to her bullshit in order to win. You know like a classic third act “the hero is now alone due to their past mistakes” type story. But Nope! 

There’s no pay off for any of this. Rapunzel is just mean for the sake of being mean in season three, and no one is aloud to call her out on it. She’s now the same type person as Frederic, a tyrant. That’s not a good development! 

She’s Literally Bullying Her Own Parents Now, and I’m Suppose to Find that Funny? 

Yes, Frederic is her abuser, and yes some people might find this scene cathartic if they hate him. But this isn’t actually calling out his past abuse. It’s just Rapunzel treating a now powerless old man with that same abuse and denying him bodily autonomy. An old man who has both less political rights and less power within the relationship than her; since due to his memory loss he is now dependent upon her. 

In the real world it’s the equivalent of picking on an Alzheimer's patient who is in your care. I don’t give a shit how much of dick they were before the illness set in, you don’t fucking do that!  

Why Should I Want Arianna and Frederic To Be a Couple? 

The show has done nothing to sell this relationship. In fact one could argue that the show is trying to purposefully sabotage it. 

Before the memory loss Frederic was proven to be abusive, to the point where even his own wife was afraid of him and wouldn’t stand up to him. Meanwhile Arianna was shown to be a shell of her former self who’d all but given up upon the things she actually enjoyed in life. And now that they both have had a second chance they have even less motive to stay together. 

Look at Arianna up there? She’s clearly not enjoying her time with him. While he doesn’t want to engage in anything that she likes. I mean a couple doesn’t have to share their interests in everything, but there still has to be some sort of connection and the series just does not give us that connection. 

There’s no reason why they should stay together. They no longer have any commitment or duty to fulfill as rulers and their daughter is fully grown. Contrary to what Rapunzel says, the kingdom isn’t going to fall apart if they separate. It actually would probably better for everyone, including Rapunzel, if they got divorced. At least then she’d have to grow up somewhat and stop being a controlling asshat.  

Why is Attila Here?

I thought Attila got a job running his own bakery and that it was Lance who became the new cook at the Snuggly Duckling? Even if you argued that Attila was just doing Rapunzel a solid that still wouldn’t explain who is running the place when Lance isn’t there. 

If you’re going to set up developments like that then you need to either stick with them or give an on screen reason for why these previous developments are no longer relevant. Flat out ignoring them like this is just lazy. 

Lance’s New Outfit is the Best Thing About the Episode, and It’s Also a Complete Waste.

Lance deserved a new outfit because the team was too lazy to give him one for season two, even during the island arc. This however is a waste because it doesn’t add anything to the narrative. People were paid to make this thing for it to only show up for a few seconds of screen time. 

This Whole Exchange Is Gross. 

Oh let me count the ways in which this is so, so stupid. 

Neither Rapunzel nor Frederic has ever proven themselves “thoughtful and responsible.” In fact both of them being irresponsible is intentionally a plot point in the main story arc.

How would either Frederic or Arianna know any of this? Not only have they lost their memories, but they didn’t raise Rapunzel themselves and those traits aren’t inherited; they are taught. 

Gushing over your grown daughter isn’t a point of connection! 

Why would anyone be compelled to kiss a practical stranger, that they previously didn’t even like, just because they both admire some woman they also barely know and happen to be related to? What is the thought process behind this? “Oh we made that? Then lets make another one!” What the fuck show? I’m ace and even I know that’s not a normal thing to get titillated over. 

The Series Turns Frederic Into a Literal Baby In a Last Ditch Effort to Make Him Likable 

The whole point behind the amnesia plot was to absolve Frederic of his past wrong doings. You can’t call out an old man with Alzheimer's for being a dictator, I suppose. (not like that’s ever stopped me from criticizing Ronald Reagan, tho)  But from there the series then takes it one step further and actually infantilizes both Frederic and Arianna, because Chris assumes that if he makes Fredric as pathetic as possible the audience won't hate him any more. Well guess what, it didn’t work. Frederic isn’t suddenly a poor woobie just because he’s useless now. That’s not how that works.  

Rapunzel Literally Physically Assaults a Person, Kidnaps Them, Threatens Them With Even More Bodily Harm, and Causes an International Incident; All Because They Asked Her Mom Out On a Date! 

You can’t hear it in the screen shots, but there’s very clearly a clanging sound to indicate that Rapunzel just wacked Trevor upside the head and knocked him out. 

Let me repeat, a Disney protagonist just committed armed assault against a guy, simply because she doesn’t respect her own mother.

What the Fuck!!!???

Arianna is fully grown woman. She is perfectly capable of making her own choices and she agreed of her own volition to go out with him. In fact she’s the one who asked Trevor if she could come along on his sea voyage. It’s not Rapunzel’s place to interfere with that. 

Secondly, Rapunzel shouldn’t get a free pass to attack people just because she’s doesn’t like them. And she most assuredly shouldn’t get to write off her cruelty as justice because she's royalty! What the hell? You just turned one of your official princesses into a literal tyrant for the sake of a joke, Disney! 

Where the fuck was the oversight on this show!? 

And to top it all off, Trevor is a ruler of a competing kingdom. This could easily have been deemed an act of war. Thankfully for everyone involved Trevor has far more sense and compassion than Rapunzel and doesn’t push the matter. 

Yes that’s right! The intentionally annoying prat and comedic antagonist is a more upstanding person than the main heroine! Let that sink in! 

Wait, If Laws Don’t Apply Out In the Ocean, Then Why Did Eugene and Max Have Jurisdiction to Arrest Lady Caine in Peril on the High Seas? 

Max shoved this same rule book into Eugene’s face when Eugene rightfully questioned if it was his job to arrest the mutineers. This book said that it was not only his job, but that he was also legally required to stop any and all ‘wrongdoing’ no matter where he was at nor whether he was on duty or not. While also failing to specify what ‘wrongdoing’ entailed. 

Now that’s very problematic and ridiculous for a whole host of reasons that I’ve already covered back in my review of Peril on the High Seas, but this scene now adds a whole new layer of stupidity to the mix. 

If zero laws apply out in open waters than yes, Eugene and Max were acting out of their jurisdiction. Not only that, but the pervious dumb rule regarding their duties is also now null and void. So, Justice For Lady Caine! 

Oh, but were not done yet, cause it gets dumber. 

If laws, including marriage don't apply, then getting married while out at sea also would not apply. Thereby rendering Trevor’s plan useless, unless they got married back in Equis. Which if they did that, it would bypass the entire pointless rule book completely because Equis is not subject to Corona’s laws anyways. 

There’s not even any ‘inter-kingdom’ laws that they would be subject too because Equis isn’t a part of the seven kingdoms. Any treaty they did previously have with Corona would be something else entirely, and Trevor would be within his rights to end such an agreement.     

Also Trevor is a king. He can do whatever the fuck he wants. Same goes for Arianna.

Ummm, No You Don’t Rapunzel

Trevor can’t marry Arianna without her agreement to it. It’s already been established that she’s physically capable of taking care of herself and she’s also mature enough to make her own decisions. If she did wind up marrying him it’d be because it’s her fucking choice to and Rapunzel has zero right to interfere with that.  

There’s no one to rescue here. Rapunzel has no reason to go chasing after her mom. All this is doing is denying a grown woman agency over her own life. Why should I or anyone, root for Rapunzel here? 

You Do Know That Arianna Has More Than Just Two Choices Here, Don't Ya Show?

Arianna doesn’t have to be in any relationship. That’s also an option. While I personally like Trevor, this shouldn’t be a choice between him or Frederic. The show should be asking what Arianna, as a character, would want for her life, instead of just shoehorning her into just being a wife for someone else. 

I still don’t know what Arianna really wants in life, but I do know that being a domestic housewife and a queen does not suit her. She doesn’t actually like being tied down with commitments and responsibilities. She’s repeatedly indicated over and over again that she feels uncomfortable in her role. 

But the show reduces her into trophy to win and turns her into a damsel in distress multiple times. Then it further neuters her so that she complacently walks back into that life over and over again for no logical reason. She’s treated not as a person but as a prop.    

Really, Arianna? Are You Really Sure About That? 

These aren’t Arianna’s words. They’re Chris’s. 

Arianna has shown zero interest in Frederic up to this point. The closest they got was during that creepy boat scene where they just jumped to almost kissing for no real reason.  While before now Arianna was making actual goo-goo eyes at Trevor earlier, before Raps stepped in and broke them up.  

They actually do have things in common and had a genuine point of connection. They even almost kissed themselves until Raps started being a dick. No forced and icky conversations about their grown children needed here folks!

While I still firmly believe Arianna should just be single, the show does far more to convince me that she and Trevor should be together more so than her and Frederic. Everything about this scene on the boat feels forced and hollow because it doesn’t ring true to what was previously established. 

This just isn’t good writing. It’s the animation equivalent of a six year old smashing their Barbie dolls faces together and shouting “now kiss!”, all because a middle aged man couldn’t get over they fact people didn’t like his self insert. 

No, wait, I apologize. That’s being mean to six year olds. They usually have more interesting plots and established characterization than this.  

Hey, Remember When the Series Villainized an Orphan For Stealing This Stupid Book? 

Yeah, stealing the book was treason and the mains ruined a child’s life over it, but apparently it just doesn’t matter any more cause no one seems to give a shit about Trevor taking it. Like, yes, as the king of another kingdom, Trevor isn’t beholden to Frederic’s bullshit, but you would think that the characters would treat this as a bigger deal than what they do, given how they responded previously to it being taken.

Unless Rapunzel was just talking out of her ass back during The Alchemist Returns. That’s also quite possible.  

This Literally Has Nothing To Do With You Rapunzel 

Just because Rapunzel herself is a woman, doesn’t mean that stealing the agency of another female character isn’t misogynist. Especially when their both written by primarily men.  

Every guy who was involved with the writing of the episode, should be fucking ashamed of themselves!!! 

So What Exactly Has Trevor Done Wrong Up To This Point? 

Yes, the story board artists and voice actors do a lot of heavy lifting here to try and make Trevor seem like a creep. Arianna’s body language and tone of voice when dealing with him here will be very familiar to a lot of women, I’m sure. I know what it’s like to have a stalker and not know how to turn them down because you’ve been trained all your life to ‘be polite and nice” to people, and I’m not unique in that regard. 

But here’s the thing, it’s not set up properly. There’s nothing backing this sudden shift in the characters’ dynamic. Up till now Trevor has been a perfect gentlemen. Sure he was over the top as always, and you could call it an act when regarding his politeness to Frederic, but he seemed to genuinely respect and admire Arianna and clearly desires genuine affection in return from her. Why would he suddenly stop behaving in a way that worked for him and start talking over her instead? 

Also why wouldn’t Arianna just tell him no to begin with if that’s what she wants? She had no trouble speaking her mind before now. But that begs the question why she wouldn’t return his feelings as well, because as stated above, she clearly showed interest in him previously. 

This is So Fucking Forced

Yeah, okay, you’re daughter has no reason to be here to begin with, disrespected your wishes, and attacked Trevor first. At this point I’d argue he has a right to retaliate. Especially since, if Rapunzel was allowed to board, you know she’d just attack him again, because she knows no other way to resolve conflicts other than to hit people very hard.  

Arianna’s actions here only make sense if she’s kept in the dark about what an awful human being her daughter really is. That’s poor writing. 

Also, having a woman just punch people while denying them actually agency and choice within the plot is not ‘girl power.’ It’s fucking misogyny!

How Does Doing the Bare Minimum, and Just Showing Basic Human Decency Count As ‘True Love’? 

What was she suppose to do? Let him drown? I mean I wouldn’t, and I despise the man. Not to mention anyone else could have done the same thing. They’re all right there. If Lance had jumped to the rescue would Trevor have proclaim them lovers too? 

Trevor Is Still the Better Man Here

Here he is rescuing Rapunzel even after she treated him like shit. 

Best. King. Period. 

This Still Doesn’t Redeem Frederic 

So through out the episode Frederic has inexpiably shown an obsession for eggs. He now collects them even though this was never an established trait before now. But whatever. He’s just been through something traumatic and looking for something to ground himself.  Far be it from me to make fun of someone else’s special interest. If you like to collet eggs than good for you. Go live your life to fullest. 

That’s more respectful than how the show handles it, as everyone dismiss his interest and it’s treated like a joke through out the episode. Only to have said obsession save the day. But this isn’t here to teach the others about respecting other people’s hobbies, oh no, it’s here to try and give Frederic a big hero moment so you’ll cheer for him. 

Except one nice thing does not erase his past actions! I don’t care what your hobby is, if you deliberately try to cause grievous harm to people you’re and asshole! And you will continue to be an asshole until you can admit what you’ve done wrong and try your best to make up for it. 

I Hope You Made Back Up Copies of The Tunnel Maps 

A bunch of people are more upset over this development than I am, because it is a historical artifact and preserving the past is important. But the only story function the book held was a map to the tunnels, and said tunnels were never utilized properly through out the entire show. 

To this day people still don’t understand that they’re meant connect the island to Old Corona or that Herz Der Sonne is the one who built them into order to invade Saporia because the show is so bad at its world building. And come season three, they’re all but irrelevant anyways. Such a wasted concept. 

Once Again the Whole ‘Memory Loss’ Subplot Is a Copout 

Ok that’s not how the spell worked previously, but that’s not what I’m taking issue with here. 

If the whole point behind the amnesia plot twist was to sweep Frederic’s awfulness under the rug, then I expect his past actions to be addressed once he’s regained his memories. They are not. 

This episodes reverses the very thing that the season was trying to achieve and just hopes the audience is too stupid/attention deficient to notice. Well guess what, we noticed and we’re far smarter than you Chris. 

Conclusion

I don’t understand the point of this episode. It shoots everything season three is trying to do in the foot. It screws up the timeline, makes Rapunzel even more of an irredeemable dickhead while preventing her from learning yet another needed lesson, undermines Arianna as a character once again, and it puts Frederic back in the crosshairs of the audience’s scrutiny. 

Oh and look, it’s written by the same guy who wrote Rapunzel’s Return. Why am I not surprised.  

Anyways another one down and only 15 more to go. You can support my continued marathon by dropping a tip in my ko-fi if you wish. I’m currently back to job hunting yet again and anything you can give is appreciated. 

https://ko-fi.com/rachelbethhines

[deja-you]

times new roman | episode eight

t. jefferson x reader

summary: Y/n needs a date. Thomas would be more than happy to oblige. 

word count: 1.8k

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“You’ve kissed me twice now.”

It was a plain, straight-forward statement. There was no expectation or insinuation behind his words, merely a fact. Even though Thomas held no malevolence, Y/n couldn’t help but be defensive. 

“Well, you kissed me back.”

“I’m not going to apologize for that.”

She cocked her head to the side and stared at him. “Then I don’t know what you want me to do about it.”

Thomas sighed and shrugged his jacket over his shoulders. “Look, angel, all I’m saying is that you can’t keep kissing me and then pretending like I don’t exist. Either you need to stop kissing me or we need to talk this out.” 

“Talk this out?”

“Yeah. We could go get lunch and talk about it.”

“Sounds kind of like a date.” 

He raised an eyebrow. “Is this you saying no?”

She weighed her options and shrugged. “It’s not.”

“Are you...” Thomas was doing his best not to get his hopes up. “Are you saying yes?”

“Yes, Thomas.”

A full-on smile spread across his face at this. He bounced back and forth on the balls of his feet. “Great! I know this fantastic pla-- damn.”

Y/n raised an eyebrow. “What?”

“I completely forgot,” Thomas sucked his bottom lip under his teeth, his brows furrowing in frustration, “I promised my second cousin I’d meet with him to discuss a case.”

“It’s okay, I understand. We can just have this conversation over text,” she suggested. 

He fervently shook his head. “No, no. I want to take you out on a proper date. I want to do this right.”

“It’s not a big deal,” she laughed, “since when have you cared, anyway?”

“Since it’s been you.” Thomas’s eyes softened.

“Oh.”

Y/n stared at him like she was seeing him for the first time. Thomas really cared about her, didn’t he? She should’ve noticed a long time ago that he was more than just the flirtatious, big-shot lawyer who had responded to her tweet weeks ago. Maybe Y/n would’ve noticed if she hadn’t been so focused on falling in love with him, a task that she was currently failing. 

Thomas checked his watch and grimaced. “Okay, how about this. I’ll run down to meet with John, and then when I get back I’ll take you out to lunch. It will take 45 minutes, an hour tops.”

“Okay.” When he looked at her with those pleading eyes, there was no way Y/n could’ve said no. 

“You’re welcome to use anything in the apartment. The shower, the coffee machine, whatever you need,” he smiled softly, grabbing his briefcase and heading to the door. Before Thomas could close the door behind him, he paused. 

“Don’t leave. Please don’t leave, angel.”

“I’m not going anywhere.”

Thomas offered her one last smile before leaving his apartment and sprinting down the hallway to minimize the amount of time he would be gone. When he was gone, Y/n finally had a moment to think. That’s when she remembered what she was wearing. 

“Shit,” she muttered. She couldn’t exactly wear an oversized t-shirt and underwear to lunch, and Y/n wasn’t exactly thrilled with the idea of wearing an evening gown, either. Finding her phone on the bedside table, she quickly began to craft a message to Peggy. 

“I don’t like him. I’ve just kissed him a few times and now I’m going on a date with him,” Y/n said fifteen minutes later when Peggy showed up with a change of clothes. 

“You’re in denial.”

“No, I’m in the Upper East Side, currently. Why would I be in a river in Egypt?”

“DENIAL. Not the nile. You know exactly what I meant, don’t play dumb with me.” Peggy crossed her arms, and took a moment to appreciate the dark wood in Thomas’s kitchen. “Now I knew Jefferson was rich, but I didn’t know he was this rich.”

Y/n shrugged. “He comes from old money, and then he has the money he makes as a corporate lawyer on top of that.”

“Is he like, your sugar daddy, then?” Peggy raised an eyebrow. 

“I swear,” Y/n grumbled under her breath. “We both know I don’t need a sugar daddy.”

Peggy shrugged. “You could do a lot worse than Jefferson. That man is fine. I still don’t believe that nothing happened between you two last night.”

“I don’t know what I’m going to have to do to convince you that nothing happened,” Y/n sighed. “I promise you nothing happened.”

“Are you... are you disappointed?” Peggy asked.

“Stop projecting your thoughts onto me,” Y/n snapped, but a part of her had to wonder if she actually was disappointed. She shook her head. “Okay, enough from you. You need to go before Thomas gets back. I’ll catch you up on everything later.”

���You’re calling him Thomas now? I’m sure he’d prefer da--”

“Get out,” Y/n hissed, shoving her friend out the door.

Y/n was in a rush to get dressed and ready before Thomas got back. She finished getting ready in record time, and then found that she was left with nothing to do. After absent-mindedly scrolling through her phone for a few minutes, Y/n grew bored and decided to go on a self-guided tour of Thomas Jefferson’s apartment. 

The first stop was the bathroom. Immaculately clean counter, a large mirror with lights behind it, and a fucking rain shower. Who even owned a rain shower in New York City? Still, Y/n was wishing she had taken Thomas up on that previous offer to use his shower. How good would that rain shower feel? And if she was imagining Thomas’s hands on her in the shower, nobody would have to know. 

After briefly fixing up her appearance in the mirror, Y/n ventured into the kitchen which was connected to a living room with a grand piano, shelves full of books, and an incredible view of New York. Thomas owned nearly every classic book, from To Kill a Mockingbird to A Tale of Two Cities. There were stacks of books on the coffee table because there wasn’t enough room on one of his many shelves, and Y/n was reminded that she had seen even more books in his work office.

“Someone get this man a Kindle,” she muttered to herself as she weaved her way.

Y/n tensed when she heard keys in the door and the handle begin to jiggle. Logically, it would make sense that it was just Thomas returning. But this was still New York City. Y/n grabbed a larger book off the table, something by Tolstoy, and raised it up just in case an intruder walked through the door. 

Finally, the door swung open, and Thomas entered his apartment. He froze when he saw Y/n staring at him, book raised in the air in preparation for attack. Thomas blinked a few times and adjusted his glasses -- he hadn’t been wearing them this morning, had he? How did he look so good in them?

“Angel, were you about to assault me with my own library?” He asked curiously. 

Y/n cringed inwardly and lowered the book. “I just wanted to be prepared in case it wasn’t you and someone was breaking in.”

Thomas laughed and shook his head. “What was your plan exactly? To subdue your attacker with tales from Napoleonic era Russia?”

“I don’t know, I hadn’t really thought that through. Maybe I’d throw it at them and make my escape,” she shrugged.

He set down his briefcase on the kitchen counter and made his way over to Y/n. Thomas stopped when they were standing nearly chest to chest and leaned forward to take the book out of her hand, his grin never faltering. 

“I’d ‘preciate it if you didn’t throw my books, angel. This is a collector’s edition.” Thomas placed the book safely back on the coffee table. “So how about that lunch?”

Y/n allowed a small smile. “Yes. Lunch. I’m starving.”

“Great! Well, not great that you’re starving-- I just mean, well. I want to take you to this place I know that has the best French cuisine in America.” His eyes lit up the way they always did when he started talking about something he was passionate about. The same way they lit up when he looked at her. “The head chef and I go way back.”

Y/n wouldn’t outwardly show how happy it made her to see Thomas this excited, but she felt all warm and cozy on the inside. Together, Thomas and Y/n left his apartment and they began walking a few blocks down to the restaurant that Thomas was so excited about.

As they walked, Thomas hummed softly, an ever-present grin on his face. Y/n felt herself staring at him while they walked, and quickly looked away when she saw him glance at her. She bit her lip gently, still trying to comprehend that she was actually going on a date with Thomas Jefferson. She must have been thinking hard, because eventually Y/n realized neither of them had spoken in a while.

“So how was coffee with your cousin?” She asked nervously, trying to fill the silence. 

“Not my cousin,” Thomas reminded her, “my second cousin.”

“And that matters because?” Y/n raised an eyebrow at Thomas’s defensiveness.

“Because he’s just so... liberal.” Thomas glanced at her and gave a sheepish smile. “No offense, of course.”

“None taken?” 

“Just can’t stand ‘im sometimes,” he shrugged. “Gets on my nerves.”

“Then why did you ditch me to get coffee with him?” She shoved her hands in her pockets and absently focused on matching her stride with Thomas’s.

“He’s family, I’d hear it from Ma if I didn’t treat him with that Southern hospitality. My second cousin, John Marshall’s just starting off in law and my aunt thought I could give him some tips,” he said. Thomas glanced at Y/n, “sorry, angel, am I boring you with this?”

“No, no,” Y/n insisted. “I’m fascinated. Is he working on an interesting case?”

Thomas grinned. “Actually, yeah. He’s working on this criminal case where a defendant had been coerced into a confession. Somehow John’s roped me into being his co-counsel.”

Y/n’s eyebrows shot up into her hair line. “You’re working on a criminal justice case?”

He glanced at you, his grin widening at the look on your face. “I know you like to think I’m just a corporate sellout, but I do my fair share of pro bono cases.”

“Didn’t realize you had any expertise in that area of law,” she said with a shrug.

“First job out of law school, I spent some time working at the D.A.’s office. Got a lot of experience around prosecutors and defense attorneys. Thought I’d go into criminal law for a while,” he mused.

Y/n studied his features carefully. “What made you change your mind?”

“Well, angel, when the George Washington comes knocking on your door and specifically asks for you, you don’t turn him down,” Thomas laughed.

“Ah, I see. Do you ever wish you hadn’t switched to corporate law?” She asked.

They had arrived at the restaurant Thomas had picked out, and they paused on the sidewalk as he considered the question.

“Sometimes I think about it,” he admitted. Thomas looked over at Y/n, smiled, and pulled the door open for her. “But I think I made the right decision.”

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