#i could keep ranking things all night but it's after midnight and i want to be asleep

[droughtofapathy]

rank every production of: company and follies, then rank every performance of

- not getting married today

- ladies who lunch

- being alive

- losing my mind

- could i leave you

- (anything else.)

What do you *mean* every performance? There's unhinged and there's batshit unstable because fuck's sake, how is this even possible? I'm putting it all under a cut. We're going to be here a while.

Okay, so given that I've only ever seen the recent Broadway revival of Company live, and otherwise only have a passing familiarity with the original and the two other subsequent revivals, I'll say that the real answer is Elaine Stritch best Joanne, Katie Finneran best Amy, Jennifer Simard best Sarah, and objectively Raul Esparza best Bobby. And that's all I have to say about that.

Follies: 1. Encores! 2007 for that sublime trio of Donna Murphy as Phyllis, Vicki Clark as Sally, and Christine Baranski as Carlotta. However, points off for not being a full maximalist design (y'know, being an Encores! and all). 2. Original 1971. Yes, there have been more talented performers, yes there have been better sets, yes it was kind of a nightmare to put together. But I've read Everything was Possible and I am deeply besotted by what was. 3. NT 2017. For the design and some of the background direction, full honors. That set is everything I have ever wanted from a Follies set. Gorgeous costumes. Love the execution of the ghosts. The actual performers...? Well...let's just say I can count on one hand how many West End performers I actually respect. 4. 2011 Broadway revival. Jan Maxwell, my beloved. The design may not have been as grand as it should have been, the casting of Bernadette might have been a little underwhelming, the drama backstage might have been harrowing, but Jan Maxwell may well be the best Phyllis we've ever had in a full production. 5. 1998 Papermill Play House. There were rumors of this transferring to Broadway but that got axed, alas. Instead, we got the 2001 production (starring neither rumored Donna Murphy nor Jean Smart, so what was the point?). But Dee Hoty is one of the great Phyllis performers. She did "Ah, But Underneath" instead of "The Story of Lucy and Jessie" and you know, I'm not mad about it. Honorable Mention: the Follies concert this past June at Carnegie Hall. It's been enough time that I can make up a laundry list of what I didn't like. But what I did like made for a magical night.

As for ranking the songs, you're getting my top three-to-five and you'll be happy about it:

"Getting Married Today" 1. Madeline Kahn Hands down, no question, zero contest, everyone else pack it up. This is it. The pinnacle of the song. She is everything and her "I'm not well" runs on constant loop in my head. 2. Katie Finneran Truly an ideal role for her, and this rendition is as nerve-wracking as it should be. Extra points for being post-partum and leaking breastmilk into that white dress. 3. Veanne Cox I've seen her do this live, and it's an impressive feat. She's got the neurotic panic down to a science. 4. Julie Andrews Do I think it's anywhere near the best rendition ever? No. But am I endlessly entertained? Absolutely. Julie Andrews, my beloved. 5. Marin Mazzie (technically) You never said it had to be the Amy part of the song. Marin Mazzie as the soprano Wedding Singer deserves a spot on this list, and while the video I'm thinking of seems to have vanished into the aether, there are a few clips of her doing it at different concerts, and I think of them fondly.

"The Ladies Who Lunch" 1. Patti LuPone But not the one she did for the recent Broadway revival. It was fine and all, but not her best. I do like the 2011 concert version, but I'm going with the Ladies in Red version specifically here. 2. Elaine Stritch The original. The blueprint. The ideal. 3. Christine Baranski, Meryl Streep, Audra McDonald It's iconic and feral and I don't think anyone's going to argue. 4. Debra Monk and/or Barbra Walsh I don't listen to them often, but solid takes either way.

"Being Alive" 1. Marquee Five I've said it before, and I'll say it again, but this song was only ever just kind of there for me until I heard an alto woman sing it. Now I get it. Obscure choice, yes, but argue with the wall. 2. Raul Esparza Okay, so I did hear him do this live during an unexpected appearance at a 24 Hour Plays event, and okay yeah, I get it. I understand the hype. It was incredible. Other than that, I don't really listen to others aside from Marquee Five.

"Losing My Mind" 1. Marin Mazzie This is everything to me. The gown, the silhouette, the sheer size of her mouth. And the little gasp at the end? I am in a puddle on the floor. 2. Kate Baldwin The pause at the climax of the song is one of the singular most transcendent moments of live theatre I have ever experienced. Total silence as nearly three-thousand people witnessed utter perfection. I am haunted by this performance. 3. Victoria Clark The best Sally, and I'll die on that hill. She gets it. And her costume, hair, and makeup for the 2007 Encores! concert has me so in love. Almost enough to make me overlook how delusional she is and propose marriage. 4. Liza Minnelli Yes, in case you didn't know, there's a Liza Minnelli disco version of this song, and I just... I... yeah, you're going to have to see for yourself.

"Could I Leave You?" 1. Donna Murphy Shocker. Who would have guessed that DroughtofApathy would put Donna Murphy's definitive rendition of this song at the top slot? She goes somewhere during this number, and I haven't seen a performance come close to touching what she does yet. 2. Jan Maxwell My beloved.

But let's be honest here. I'm not listening to any other version aside from Donna's. So here's just a few I think are very good, but given the choice, I'd never voluntarily listen to any of them if Donna is also an option: Julie Andrews, Dee Hoty, Emily Skinner, Alexis Smith, Janie Dee, Lucia Spina, Bonnie Milligan. Basically any woman. (Though I'll be honest, I didn't really care for Beth Leavel's during the Follies concert.) No man ever. Every time a man does this number at a cabaret, just know that beneath my mask, I am hissing and spitting in disgust.

And that's all she wrote.

[noobiestnoober]

Suburban Secrets (Leon X Reader)

When two top agents are forced to pose as a married couple in an Umbrella-infested suburb, they expect the mission to be awkward—but not dangerously domestic. Matching rings. HOA drama. Late-night stakeouts. Burnt lasagna. And a growing list of things they’re not supposed to feel.

He makes her coffee. She saves him pie. They start forgetting it’s all pretend.

But when the mission ends, will they go back to being just agents... or admit the lines between fake and real have already blurred?

📎 Featuring awkward cuddles, nosy neighbors, near-kisses, and optional endings (soft, bittersweet, hilarious, and action-packed!). 👀 Read now and decide: which ending would you choose? Let me know in the comments and I will make endings based on your requests. ❤️

When the mission called for deep cover, you didn’t expect the word “deep” to include matching gold rings, monogrammed towels, and a suspiciously enthusiastic real estate agent named Cheryl who insisted on taking your "first home" photo. Overnight, you became Mrs. Kennedy—wife to one of the most maddeningly attractive and emotionally shut-off agents you’d ever been paired with. It was either going to be a nightmare or the weirdest honeymoon ever.

You and Leon Kennedy—veteran agents, equally skilled but polar opposites in personality—were embedded in an idyllic cul-de-sac straight out of a retro postcard. Your mission was to blend in as a married couple while quietly surveilling the neighbors across the street, suspected high-ranking Umbrella operatives. The mission brief said three weeks. Your gut said it would feel like forever.

The first week was textbook awkward. Snarky banter filled the air like static. You argued over who should mow the lawn, why your fake dog needed a name, and whether Leon’s idea of cooking dinner—frozen lasagna and cold cereal—qualified as edible. He called it “a classic American meal.” You called it a potential health hazard.

Neighbors dropped by with pies and casseroles, eager to meet the “newlyweds.” Brenda, your across-the-street neighbor and self-appointed HOA gossip queen, practically camped at your doorstep with passive-aggressive muffins and endless questions. “Do you two have plans for children soon?” she’d ask sweetly, while you and Leon fumbled through contradictory answers. She even started leaving welcome cards and neighborhood bulletins in your mailbox, always signed with a heart and a smiley face.

But somewhere in that absurd routine—between grocery store runs, HOA meetings, and nights spent pretending to cuddle on the porch while watching the suspect’s house—something began to shift.

Leon started making your coffee in the mornings, just the way you liked it—two sugars, a splash of cream, and no judgment. He handed you your favorite granola bars without being asked. You saved the last slice of apple pie, just in case he wanted it. He fixed the jammed drawer in your fake shared bedroom without a word. You rearranged the photos on the fridge so your undercover “wedding” picture didn’t look so stiff.

It was well past midnight. The surveillance gear hummed quietly, casting a soft blue glow through the living room. The suspect hadn’t moved in hours, but neither of you wanted to be the first to call it a night. You lounged on the couch, wrapped in a blanket, wearing one of his oversized shirts because your laundry hadn’t finished drying. Leon sat beside you, sipping a beer, his attention not on the screen—but on you.

“I keep forgetting this isn’t real,” he said, his voice low.

You looked up. “What isn’t?”

“This. Us.”

The air shifted. Your heart skipped. “Right,” you said, barely above a whisper. “Just a mission.”

But when your eyes met, his expression said more than words ever could. He leaned in, breath ghosting between you— Then ding. The laptop chimed. New intel from HQ. You both jerked back like you’d been caught sneaking out after curfew. The moment shattered. Professionalism snapped into place, but the tension lingered like a second presence in the room.

Days turned into weeks. The mission extended unexpectedly. You settled into a rhythm, not just as agents—but as something dangerously close to a real couple. Movie nights on the couch. Music in the kitchen while cooking. Shared glances that lasted a second too long. Inside jokes. He remembered your fake anniversary and brought home a cupcake, singing off-key just to make you laugh.

The lines blurred. The mission was almost over. The final report was written. But what about everything that wasn’t in the report? The way he made your bed when you forgot. The warmth in his voice when he said your name. The way your heart raced when he touched the small of your back at neighborhood barbecues—when no one was watching.

The cover would drop. The house would go back to the agency. The rings would come off. But what about everything else? Would you walk away as agents? Or risk staying behind—as something more?

[folkwhore1998]

I just don't understand...

how you don't miss me in the black dog

I had no idea what to expect with this album. Taylor's brand is "never let them know your next move"

So, was it going to be more of a folklore/evermore/red vibe? Or was it going to be pop in the way midnights was? I did not think it was going to be straight up pop, but you just never know. I don't have cable so it can be really hard for me to watch award shows in real time, so I pulled a few strings so I could stream the grammys and thank god I did. I could not believe the album announcement and I was honestly gagged about the whole thing.

Now... This is a devastatingly beautiful album and is so vulnerable and raw.

The Prophecy... she literally said "I will go bankrupt. I will give up everything because I am hurting so much I need someone to tell me things are going to be okay and I don't care what I have to do to get this confirmation/assurance. I just want someone to love me the way I love them and I don't care about the superficial things." and she was so real for that.

The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived... the first time I listened to it was like 12:30 AM on album release night/day, and I was yaknow, chilling, listening. and then we hit the bridge... my jaw hit the floor. I literally shot up in bed and was like "holy fuck." when i thought the song was wrapping up, it just kept going. Obviously I had to listen to it again right after it ended. (and I am NOT mad about it. I feel this song in my bones) ((My fiance was also dead asleep during all of this and I made him listen to it at like 10 AM the following day))

(peace: i'll die for you in secret ➜ TSMWEL: i would have died for your sins) ((actually screaming crying vomiting idk))

My favorite part of when she sings this on the eras tour is when she says "hey.. give this message to the smallest man who ever lived" and then turns to the audience and starts singing the bridge. She's like "Yup- heres this message, and another thing- fuck you!" literally incredible. i have an emotional attachment to this song. I could write an essay and honestly, maybe I will.

It's so funny to me because every time Taylor puts out a new album, there are some songs that I hear where i'm like "WOW. This is it. This is the song. She summed up my entire experience in a way I never could. I don't know how much more accurate she could get." And then she comes out with some insane song that keeps the cycle going.

(it's the cycle that keeps on giving and the cycle that keeps me alive! no, seriously. when i was in the hospital at one point in my life, i was asked everyday "and what is something you want to live for?" my answer: my cat and taylor swift's music")

All of this to say... I am so happy I was/am medicated when this album came out.

Here is my ranking of the Tortured Poets Department! (This was incredibly difficult because all of the songs are just so good. Noting that I don't think that any song is a bad song.)

The Black Dog

The Smallest Man

The Prophecy

How Did It End?

Guilty As Sin

My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys

loml (but sometimes it changes places- just depends on the day, but it never goes lower)

Fresh Out The Slammer

But, Daddy I Love Him

Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?

So Long, London

Down Bad

I Can Do It With A Broken Heart

So High School

I Hate It Here

TTPD

Fortnight

Chloe or Sam or Sophia or Marcus

Peter

Cassandra

Flordia!!!

The Alchemy

The Bolter

thanK you aIMee (thank You aimEe)

Clara Bow

The Albatross

The Manuscript

imgonnagetyouback

I Look In People's Windows

Robin

I Can Fix Him (no really I can)

Honorable mentions:

CHILLS

I was so shocked (I watched on a grainy livestream)

When I say I sobbed, I'm not joking. I texted my sister and said "You need to get on this livestream RIGHT NOW.

Check out these small businesses:

Here is the link to a down bad t-shirt: So good for the gym and its a comfort colors t-shirt!

Direct link to the storefront: They have so many cool items!

Check out the link: It's a TTPD vinyl/cd holder and it is actually the coolest thing I've ever seen (I will be purchasing)

Direct link to the storefront: There are a few different options! Check them out!

@taylorswift @taylornation @taylorswift @taylornation

[thewritingmagician2022]

Midnights - Taylor Swift - Brothers and Dateables

Lucifer: Maroon

The mark they saw on my collarbone

The rust that grew between telephones

The lips I used to call home

So scarlet, it was maroon

This sound is very Lucifer and, despite the navy color the game assigns to him, I will always associate red with Lucifer - especially a deep, dark red. This song is about a relationship ending and it makes me think of MC returning back to the human world and while they keep in touch with everyone at first, the contact between them and Lucifer fades quickly as they both return to v their normal lives. Especially now with the lyric video released and we know it says “it’s a real fucking legacy, to leave”. MC leaving is what really lingers and Lucifer is the one who is stuck with that. 

Mammon: Sweet Nothing

And the voices that implore, "You should be doing more"

To you, I can admit that I’m just too soft for all of it

-

They said the end is comin'

Everyone's up to somethin'

I find myself runnin' home to your sweet nothings

Mammon, my sweet man, who wants everything that the worlds have to offer but he can never find anything better than MC. There is nothing sweeter to him than the praise they give him or their declarations of love. Mammon deals with a lot of criticism and pressure, not just from his brothers but from the Devildom in general. He’s a very high ranking demon and that comes with certain expectations; if he’s being honest, Mammon thinks he may be a little too soft for all of it but the only person he’s willing to be so honest and vulnerable around is MC - the one person who doesn’t expect anything from him but his love. 

Levi:  Glitch

We were supposed to be just friends

- 

I think there’s been a glitch

Five seconds later, I'm fastening myself to you with a stitch

And I'm not even sorry, nights are so starry

This song is so Levi. He goes into this thing with MC thinking he’s just found a new friend and he’s sure this little crush of his will just pass by. The more time he spends with them, the faster he’ll realize that there’s nothing special about them, right? Wrong. The more time they spend together, the more attached Levi grows and the more he wants to see them. Something has shifted in their dynamic and Levi is forced to realize how much he cares about them and in exactly what way. 

Satan: Snow on the Beach

Flying in a dream

Stars by the pocketful

You wanting me tonight, feels impossible

But it's comin' down, no sound, it's all around

Like snow on the beach

Snow on the Beach is very ethereal sounding and I always associate that with Satan. I’m the very beginning of the game Satan is described as looking like a regular Prince Charming and we quickly learn that’s not quite true. Satan is pretty reticent, especially in the beginning, and MC doesn’t seem very interested in him. But, over time, they get closer and closer and MC is shocked to realize that Satan cares about them. Satan is just as surprised that MC feels the same way. Together they navigate a romance that’s very fairytale-esque and unexpected but wonderful. 

Asmo: Question

'Cause I don't remember who I was

Before you painted all my nights

A color I've searched for since

-

Does it feel like everything's just like

Second best after that meteor strike?

I think this is the way everyone would feel after a break up with Asmo. How are you supposed to find another lover, another partner, after they’ve been with the Avatar of Lust? The crown jewel of the three realms? You don’t. Nothing else will ever compare to that kind of love. But what MC doesn’t realize is that Asmo feels the same way. He’s been with so many people he could never try to keep track but he’s never had anyone quite like you again and, as he’s realizing, he can’t find anyone else who colored his world quite like MC did. So they’re both left wondering ‘does the other person feel the same way? Do they regret this like I do?’. 

Belphie: Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve

And if you never saved me from boredom

I could've gone on as I was

But, lord, you made me feel important

And then you tried to erase us

Oh, you're a crisis of my faith

Would've, could've, should've

If I'd only played it safe

I was so tempted to use The Great War instead because things end up okay with Belphie but I just can’t because MC wasn’t imagining wrongdoings that never happened. Belphie literally killed them after spending weeks befriending/seducing them, making them feel so important because of the role they were going to play in freeing him and bringing the family back together even though they knew Belphie was supposedly a risk. Everything was going well and MC was on the “right” path until they met Belphie, the Devil in disguise, and that meeting changed everything.

Beel: Paris

Privacy sign on the door

And on my page and on the whole world

Romance is not dead if you keep it just yours

I think Beel would be very private in a relationship and it’s not because he doesn’t love MC or is ashamed of them but because he’s so fiercely protective. All he wants is to keep MC safe and keep them to himself seems like the best way to do that. And that’s just fine with MC because in a realm where they are constantly being scrutinized it’s so nice to have something that’s just theirs. No one can touch that love with their judgment or opinions or jealousy. It’s a perfect little bubble around them and they wouldn’t have it any other way. 

Diavolo: Lavendar Haze

Talk your talk and go viral

I just need this love spiral

Get it off your chest

Get it off my desk

-

I feel the lavender haze creeping up on me

Surreal

I'm damned if I do give a damn what people say

Diavolo is 100% Taylor in this song. He is always in the spotlight of the Devildom, obviously, and that means everyone there has an opinion on everything he does. That applies to his relationships; in fact, it’s even worse for romantic connections. It drives him crazy sometimes, especially when it affects MC. But MC is always there to comfort him and reminds him that people can say whatever they want - the only thing that matters is how they feel about each other. It because Diavolo’s mantra whenever he gets frustrated and he knows that he can deal with whatever people have to say as long as he has MC. 

Barbatos: Mastermind

What if I told you none of it was accidental?

And the first night that you saw me

Nothing was gonna stop me

I laid the groundwork, and then

Just like clockwork

The dominoes cascaded in a line

The demon who can see through time and all of its possibilities using his powers to gather information on MC? It’s more likely than you think. Barbatos is efficient, thorough, and dedicated. There is no chance that he would stumble along blindly while trying to win MC over. He knows the exact role he needs to play, knows how to interest them and make them like him, make them trust him. To anyone looking at their relationship from the outside, it would seem like a cute little love story where the MC just happens to fall for the butler that’s always there behind the scenes and that’s how Barbatos likes it. Little does he know that MC is not nearly as oblivious as he thinks he is and, luckily, they find it endearing. 

Simeon: Hits Different

Dreams of your hair and your

Stare and sense of belief

In the good in the world, you once

Believed in me

And I felt you and I held you

For a while

Taylor, can you please release this as a single? I am so tired of finding bootleg versions to listen to. Back to the point, I absolutely hate the idea of MC and Simeon being separated but I fully believe that MC would be an absolute wreck without their angel around to love them and encourage them to make good choices. So MC is back home in the human realm and they’re heartbroken and their friends don’t understand the name they’re slurring at the bar and crying over. All MC wants is to be back with Simeon - the one person (angel) who loved them so fully. The one person who always believed in them and encouraged them and made them feel like they could truly be as good as he thinks they are. MC has known heartbreak before but nothing could ever compare to the pain of losing someone so perfect; it just hits different. 

Solomon: Labyrinth

Uh-oh, I'm fallin' in love

Oh no, I'm fallin' in love again

Oh, I'm fallin' in love

I thought the plane was goin' down

How'd you turn it right around?

If you don’t think that this song is Solomon’s, you’re absolutely wrong. We don’t know much about this shady sorcerers past but we do know that he’s been married before and we can assume that he’s been in love multiple times over the thousands of years. Based on his typically guarded or nonchalant behavior, I have to assume that his heart has been broken enough times to make him very wary of love. Then along comes MC and slowly, so slowly he almost doesn’t realize it’s happening, Solomon falls in love. It’s terrifying at first and he’s angry with himself for letting it happen but MC makes him so happy and once they admit their feelings, Solomon can’t help but give into his own and he finds he doesn’t mind quite as much as he thought he did.

[willtheweaver]

OC questionnaire tag

Shoutout for the tag @kaylinalexanderbooks

My questions are:

1. What is your favorite thing about rain? What is your least favorite thing about it?

2. What is something you don’t mind waiting a long time for?

3. Have you ever been punished for anything you didn’t do?

These questions sound perfect for the birds of A Feather in the Forest! Let’s hear it from Reed, Dirge, and Sora

1. What is your favorite thing about rain? What is your least favorite thing about it?

Reed: There’s just something about rain I find soothing. Cleaning everything, washing away the old, and nourishing things…what I don’t like is when it stops on a hot summer day. The humidity afterwards is a killer.

Dirge: I like rain in general, more than most other birds. Some may say it is ingrained into the blood of all geese. Don’t know about that, but I love a gentle rain shower. What I don’t like is a thunderstorm; the kind that goes on for days with pounding rain, screaming winds, and lightning that keeps everyone awake and praying for their lives.

Sora: The tap tap of rain always puts me at ease. It’s also ideal to hide secret conversations. What I like the least is when the rain ends during the summer months. The humidity is the WORST.

2. What is something you don’t mind waiting a long time for?

Reed: Spring. I just love the melting of the snow, and new life coming forth.

Dirge: That perfect sunset. You know what I mean; a clear, cloudless sky, the colors shifting from red, to the blue of night.

Sora: Seeing a rainbow after the rains.

3. Have you ever been punished for something you didn’t do?

Reed: This is less of a question than the story of my life. Being low on the social ladder means that everyone above you drops their guano on you…and there’s nothing you can do about it.

Dirge: Do you really want to know? Some of those of the upper ranks just love blaming us for their mistakes. And having higher standing in the hierarchy means they get away with their crimes (it makes my blood boil).

Sora: (sigh) the list I’ve got is a long one. Coming from the bottom meant that those higher up can get away with quite a bit. Things aren’t much better now that I’m a member of the talí (the warrior ranks in bird society). Those born to the rank always like to remind me that they could end my career and my life if they choose to.

Tagging @thewritingautisticat @late-to-the-fandom @splashinkling @drchenquill @tabswrites @words-after-midnight @winterandwords @diabolical-blue @thepeculiarbird @spitefulbull and open tag

Your questions are:

1. If your best friend/spouse/family member admitted to have committed murder, would you turn them in?

2. What is your fondest memory?

3. What is the best piece of advice you can give someone else?

[mukieissukie]

HYBE ACADEMY- LEE HEESEUNG Pt.18

The night was quiet on the big balcony, as Hana and Heeseung curled up together on a pile of soft bean bag beds.

The air was cool, but wrapped in each other’s arms, they felt nothing but warmth and a sense of peace that was rare in their hectic lives.

They lay side by side, Hana’s head on Heeseung’s chest, his hand gently tracing circles on her arm.

Eventually, Heeseung broke the silence.“Do you ever think about how far we’ve come?” he murmured.

Hana smiled, nodding. “I still have nightmares about monthly evaluations. Remember how everyone would be so tense the night before? But hey, how would you know? You ranked first every month for two years straight." She teased, "I used to rehearse my lines in the bathroom, whispering so no one would hear me mess up.”

Heeseung grinned, recalling the pressure. “I remember. I’d see you in the practice room at midnight, still running through your choreography. You never let yourself rest.”

Hana sighed. “I was so scared of being cut. I’d practice until my feet hurt so much I could barely walk back to the dorm. One time, I fell asleep on the studio floor and woke up to the trainers yelling at us to clean up. I thought I was done for.”

Heeseung squeezed her gently. “I get it. I used to skip meals to get extra practice in. Not the best idea, but I felt like if I wasn’t perfect, I’d fall behind. There was this one time I fainted during a dance lesson. The trainers were furious, but I was just so tired, I couldn’t help it.”

Hana’s voice softened. “I used to cry after everyone else was asleep. It felt like we were supposed to be strong all the time, but it got so lonely sometimes.”

Heeseung nodded, his thumb brushing her cheek. “I think that’s why all of us clung to each other. No one else could understand what it was like. The pressure, the competition, the strict rules… Sometimes I thought about quitting, but then I’d see everyone working so hard, and it made me want to keep going.”

Hana smiled, “You were always there, even when you didn’t say anything. Just knowing you were in the same room made things a little easier.”

Heeseung looked at her, his gaze soft. “If I could go back, I’d tell you how much you meant to me. Maybe I wouldn’t have been so scared to say it.”

She shook her head. “We were just kids. All we could do was survive each day. But I’m glad we made it. I’m glad we’re here now.”

They lay in silence, the weight of their past struggles making their present closeness feel even more precious. Hana shifted, snuggling closer. “We really did spend our teens in those practice rooms, huh?”

Heeseung chuckled. “Yeah. Sometimes I wonder what it would’ve been like to have a normal high school life. But then I remember how much I wanted this.”

Hana nodded. “Me too. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Suddenly, laughter and teasing “OHHHH!”s echoed from inside, breaking the moment. They sat up, startled, exchanging a look of confusion.

“What now?” Hana muttered, grabbing Heeseung’s hand as they hurried inside.

They rushed down the hall, still a little tangled, and pushed open the door to Hana, Aecha, and Soomin’s room.

The scene inside was pure chaos: Jay and Soomin stood awkwardly close, both blushing furiously, while Riko, Ka, Ayin, Aecha, Sunghoon, Jungwon, Sunoo and Niki were doubled over with laughter, making exaggerated “Ooooh!” noises.

Ka spotted them first and pointed dramatically. “Look! Now both groups’ eldest and second eldest are dating!”

Jay buried his face in his hands, Soomin looked like she wanted to melt into the floor.

Ayin piped up, “You should’ve seen it! We walked in and Jay-oppa and Soomin-unnie were kissing-like, actually kissing!”

Jay groaned. “Can we not-?”

Heeseung grinned, nudging Jay. “Wow, dude, didn’t know you had it in you.”

The teasing got louder, everyone making heart signs and fake swooning. Soomin looked mortified, shrinking into herself.

Hana walked over, pulling Soomin into a gentle hug. “Alright, that’s enough, everyone. Let them breathe!” She shot a playful glare at the others. “You’re all just jealous you haven’t had your first kiss yet.”

Soomin clung to Hana, hiding her face in her shoulder. Hana whispered, “You’re brave, Soomin. Don’t let them get to you.”

Jay looked up, meeting Soomin’s eyes across the room.

(A/n: ~~Locking eyes inside this crowded room~~)

The embarrassment faded, replaced by a shy, grateful smile.

Heeseung, still grinning, added, “Seriously, though, congrats. But next time, maybe lock the door?”

The room erupted in laughter again, but the teasing softened. Hana squeezed Soomin’s hand, and Heeseung gave Jay a supportive pat on the back.

For a moment, the room was filled with warmth, laughter, and the sense that, despite all the chaos and teasing, they were exactly where they belonged-together.

(A/n: Again, its a short part, BUT I just had to make Jay and Soomin date. Tbh, at first, I was confused if I should pair Soomin with Jay or Sunghoon, but I somehow ended up with choosing Jay.)

♡♡♡Thankyou for reading♡♡♡

[vgckwb]

P4G: Mirror Mirror (A FeMC Story/P4G Rework) Chapter 10: Growing Concern

As she was walking to school the next morning, Yosuke pulled up on his bike. “Yo!” He called out. He stopped so they could talk.

Yua smirked. “You’ve learned how to handle that thing, huh.”

“Well, you know, practice makes perfect,” Yosuke replied, chuckling. He grew more serious. “I take it you saw The Midnight Channel last night?” Yua nodded. “Could you make anything out?”

“Barely…” Yua answered. “All I saw was the silhouette of a girl in a kimono.”

“Figures,” Yosuke said. “I saw the same thing too.”

“However, Izanagi has told me no one is inside yet,” Yua informed him.

“Well that’s good,” Yosuke noted. “But maybe we should try and figure things out. I mean, we have this mysterious power, and it seems like whoever put Saki-senpai and that reporter in the TV does too. And if you ask me, I think we’re the only ones who can stop this from continuing. I mean, who’d believe us?”

“You believed me,” Yua pointed out.

“Well, not necessarily,” Yosuke admitted. “I just know what it’s like to be new in town. And, well, I know what can happen if people don’t like you. I just didn’t want you here with no one to rely on, you know?”

“I mean, I have my uncle,” Yua pointed out.

“Right, but like, someone our age,” Yosuke said. “As much as your uncle cares for you, I think it’s important to have friends and stuff.”

“Yeah…” Yua replied.

Yosuke pondered this response. “You know, you opened up a lot to me back there. You said a lot of things that I imagine weren’t easy to say. And I really believe that if we’re going to do this, I have to be just as open. That world preys on insecurity and darkness. So I need to try my best to keep myself steady, and I believe with you by my side I can do it.”

Yua chuckled. “To be honest, I was just following someone else’s advice. ‘In order to save others, you have to save yourself. And in order to save yourself, you have to admit you need saving.’”

Yosuke smirked. “They must be pretty smart.”

“Perhaps,” Yua said. “Now if only I could remember who they are…”

“More shenanigans?” Yosuke asked.

“Yeah,” Yua admitted. “It seems like my life is full of them.”

“Well, you know you can count on me to help,” Yosuke said. He reached out his hand. “Put ‘er there, partner!” Yua smiled and shook his hand.

Thou art I… And I am thou…

Thou hast established a new bond…

It brings thee closer to the truth…

Thou shalt be blessed by The Magician Arcana…

Magician-Yosuke Hanamura: Rank 1

“C’mon,” Yosuke said. “We should get to class. And after school, we can think about what to do next.” Yua nodded, and the two of them headed off.

As they arrived, they got themselves situated, when Chie burst in. She saw Yua and Yosuke and charged towards them. “Have either of you seen Yukiko?!”

“Um, no?” Yosuke said. “At least, not today…”

“Me either,” Yua admitted. Chie grew frustrated. “Is something the matter?”

“Yeah!” Chie explained. “DId you two watch The Midnight Channel?” They both nodded. “I think the person on it was Yukiko.”

“Yukiko?!” Yosuke exclaimed. “Are you sure?”

“Well…I can’t say for certain…” Chie admitted. “BUT the kimono she was wearing looked kind of like the kimono she wears when she works at the inn.”

“Hmmm,” Yua pondered. “Come to think of it, I saw her in that kimono yesterday after everything.”

“You did?!” Chie asked.

Yua nodded. “She was out on an errand, and we chatted for a little bit. And later, I saw her on the news. Apparently, her family’s inn was where that reporter Yamano was staying to lay low.”

“Perhaps this is all connected then,” Yosuke posited. “I mean, Saki-senpai found the body.”

“True,” Chie said. “But why would someone so obsessed with this reporter have this power?”

“I don’t even know why I have it to be fair,” Yua explained.

“True,” Chie said.

“Oh! But a bit of good news,” Yua continued. “According to the voice in my head, she’s not in the TV world yet.”

“Really?!” Chie wondered. “How can you be so sure?”

“Well, he told me last time when someone was in the TV,” Yua said. “And he has no reason to lie to me.”

“For what it’s worth, I believe her,” Yosuke said. Chie was still unsure. “OK, look, if Yukiko’s not here, we can stop by the inn after school to check on her, OK?”

Chie relented. “OK… I am worried. I don’t want her to disappear.”

“Trust me,” Yua said. “We don’t want that either.” Chie nodded.

“Alright, you savages!” Morooka called out. “Get in your seats NOW! Class is about to start!” Everyone got seated, calm, but on edge.

After school, Yua, Yosuke, and Chie dropped by the inn to check on Yukiko. “There sure are a lot of people here today,” Yua remarked.

“Yeah,” Yosuke said. “I can see why Yukiko might have needed to skip school.”

“Oh yeah,” Chie remembered. “This kind of thing happens, like, at least once a year. They get a big reservation, and it’s all hands on deck.”

“You could have told us that before,” Yosuke said.

“I mean, it’s not a secret,” Chie said. “Pretty much everyone in town knows about this.”

“Counterpoint: I only got here six months ago, and Yua JUST got here!”

“True…” Chie admitted.

Yua sighed. “Well, regardless, the point of us coming here is to make sure she’s OK. We can still do that.” The two of them nodded, and all three headed in the inn.

Surprisingly, Yukiko was behind the front desk. “Well that was easy,” Yosuke said.

Yukiko looked up at them. “Oh. Hello. Did you need a reservation for something? I have to warn you, I do have a lot going on, so now might not be the best time.”

“Nah,” Chie said. “We just wanted to see how you were doing.”

“I see,” Yukiko said. “Well, to be honest, I am burning my candle at both ends right now trying to keep things together.”

“Well, um,” Yosuke said, “I can tell you’re rather busy. So, tell you what, once things die down, why don’t the four of us share a meal at Junes? My treat.”

“You’d do that for me?” Yukiko said, surprised. She smiled. “Thanks.”

Yua glanced around. “Say, um, have you seen anyone suspicious in this crowd?”

“Um, not really,” Yukiko said. “But I carry some pepper spray just in case.”

“Good,” Yua said.

“Is something the matter?” Yukiko said.

“Well…” Yosuke said. “It’s just with the two murders recently, we just want to be sure you’re alright.”

“Yeah!” Chie said. “You’re coming to school less, you’re working at the inn more, plus this inn was where that Yamano lady was staying at.”

“Aww. Are you worried I’m going to get caught up in all this?” Yukiko said. “Like I said, I’ve got pepper spray. If some unknown creep tries anything, pachow! Right in the face.”

“No offense, but you’re not the best judge of that,” Chie said. “Remember earlier this week with that one weird kid?”

“Well that’s…” Yukiko said. “I mean, he ran away, right?”

“Yeah, but!”

“Don’t worry, Chie,” Yukiko said. “I can handle it. “Besides, most of the customers have been checked in at this point. The rest of my day is going to be spent taking inventory, accepting a delivery, and some room service with my mom. I’m going to be fine.”

Chie sighed. “Alright. I trust you Yukiko. But I’m going to come back tomorrow, OK?”

“Fine by me,” Yukiko said.

Yua nodded. “Thank you.” She, Yosuke, and Chie left the inn.

As they were walking, Yosuke asked “Are you sure she’s going to be safe?”

“I don’t know,” Chie said. “But I don’t think I need to be some knight in shining armor protecting her 24/7.”

“Yeah,” Yua said. “She has a lot on her plate already. I think us serving as protection detail would just be more of a hindrance than anything.”

“True,” Yosuke said. “But I think we should keep an eye on The Midnight Channel just to be safe.” The two girls nodded. The group continued on, heading home for the evening.

Once evening hit, the rain started pouring, and the police were investigating the area. Ryotaro was pondering what evidence he could. Adachi walked up to him. “Looks like we’ve found everything we’re gonna find. Pretty sure this rain is gonna wash away any small trace we may have missed.”

“Hmmm,” Ryotaro noted. “Do you think that’s part of this plan?”

“Who knows?” Adachi said.

Ryotaro sighed. “I hate to classify this as a murder so soon into the investigation, but there’s nothing else it could be. Grrr. It’s tough when we don’t have a lot to go off of.”

“Do you think this has something to do with the scandal involving Miss Yamano and Namatame?”

“No,” Ryotaro answered. “Namatame’s wife, Miruzu Hiiragi, was out of the country during the incident. Witness accounts and her phone records prove it. Besides, she’s the one who broke the story. Why would she do that if she was planning on murder?”

“I guess that’s a fair point,” Adachi said.

“Not only that, but Namatame has a solid alibi as well,” Ryotaro continued. “No matter how much we shake him down, he doesn’t know anything.”

“Heard he got fired too,” Adachi noted. “This whole situation must be really rough for him.”

“I’ll say,” Ryotaro said. “When I talked to him, he seemed really devoted to Yamano, but also felt bad about hurting his wife. I don’t think he would kill Yamano.”

“But where does that leave us?” Adachi asked.

“We still don’t have a cause of death,” Ryotaro moaned. “It’d be one thing if we could at least determine that. Plus the fact that there’s been two victims like this is shocking. And it’s not like they killed the Konishi girl to shut her up. She had told us long before she was killed.”

“Well, maybe she knew something about the body that she didn’t tell us,” Adachi offered. “I mean, seeing a body like that isn’t an everyday occurrence. She might have forgotten something in the panic.”

“I say Adachi,” Ryotaro replied, “that’s using your brain. Hmmm. But now there’s the matter of how the killer got to each of them. Presumably, the killer caught Yamano around the inn.”

“Ah, you saw that on the news as well?” Adachi asked.

Ryotaro was stunned. “It’s on the news already?!” He sighed. “Honestly, this is just making our job harder and harder.”

“Well, who knows?” Adachi said, trying to cheer Ryotaro up. “The smallest thing could crack this case wide open.”

“Thanks,” Ryotaro said. “Let’s just refocus and make sure we know what we’re dealing with. I believe that this is a serial homicide case, and if that’s true, I believe the killer is working alone. And whoever the killer is, they have to be in Inaba. It seems to be centered on the first victim, Mayumi Yamano, but any link to her directly is a dead end. Perhaps there’s another reason this is happening.”

“What else could it be?” Adachi asked.

“That…I’m still unsure on,” Ryotaro said. “However, it is good to think about.” He nodded. “We need to keep investigating. Right Adachi?”

“Yes sir!” Adachi replied. They continued to investigate for a bit, before returning to the station.

Yua got back to the Dojima residence. “Welcome back!” Nanako called out.

Yua smiled. “Thanks.” She noticed that Nanako was watching her trivia program and was really into it. She decided to leave her alone. After making herself a light dinner and eating it, she headed up to her room.

Once up there, she asked “Iazanagi?”

“Yes?” Izanagi replied.

“How do you know if someone is in the TV world or not?” Yua asked.

“I can just sort of sense it when I look into The Midnight Channel,” Izanagi explained. “It’s part of my connection to that world.”

“So that world is where you come from?” Yua asked.

“Is that an issue?” Izanagi wondered.

“I don’t know,” Yua said. “I just thought you were part of this world. You know, being a god and all.”

“I can see the confusion,” Izanagi said. “If it helps, think of that world as a realm of the gods and the machinations of humanity.”

“So, you’re not real?” Yua asked, confused.

“Well, it depends on your definition,” Izanagi explained. “What might not be real in the world you inhabit is real in the world over there. And as a god, I can walk between the two.”

“This has spiraled into complex theology,” Yua said, rubbing her head.

“You asked,” Izanagi snided.

“Fair enough,” Yua said. “Let’s just focus on the task at hand. I’m sure I can handle the true nature of everything once all of this gets sorted.”

“Ambitious,” Izanagi said.

The clock struck midnight. Yua and Izanagi turned their gaze to the TV. Almost instantly, Yukiko appeared on the screen. She was wearing a pink princess dress. She was smiling and had a microphone in her hands. “Good evening!” she started, her voice more bubbly than Yua had ever heard it. “Tonight, Princess Yukiko has a surprise for you! I’m going to find my own Knight in Shining Armor! Welcome to ‘Not a Hoax, Not a Dream, Princess Yukiko’s Hunt for Her Prince Charming!’ And might I mention that while this lovely dress is very demure, I do have on some lacy unmentionables to help score my stud! I’m off to catch a whole host of dreamboats who will make my dream come true! Here I goooooo~!” Yukiko then wandered off into a nearby castle.

The TV went back to normal. Yua and Izanagi were stunned. “OK,” Yua said. “I don’t have your power, but I do believe that Yukiko is in the TV world.”

“That would be correct,” Izanagi said.

“Well then…” Yua replied.

[mermaidsirennikita]

Have you read the Maiden Lane series? I know is a long one so I was wondering if you could rank them? I have only read up to book 5

Omg YES. I love Maiden Lane. It's so good. An all time favorite series of mine. I will say: I haven't read Wicked Temptations a) because I hear it's kinda different from the others, not surprising because it's a first book and b) it took me forever to find in paperback (I mean to be fair I could've totally gotten it on eBay lol, but I forgot and I finally found it at a used bookstore) it's never in any of my library systems in paperback or E, and I didn't want to get it on my kindle if I could possibly find it on E. c) Now I'm down to two full length Hoyt historicals and she's a top author for me, so I'm kinda saving it.

But yes, of the ones I've read:

Thief of Shadows--I find this to be an incredible book, it has my favorite virgin hero of all time, I love the emotionality, the lack of a magic baby, an incredible hero/heroine dynamic. I will never not love this book.

Scandalous Desires--another one I just adore, it has one of my favorite "rakish her/moral heroine" dynamic. I love that she is very pure but she's not a virgin. I love the baby in this book, rare for me. I love the pirate ship setting. The way she says "I love you" during sex and he climaxes IMMEDIATELY lol.

Duke of Midnight--this is apparently a controversial but brave opinion, because Maximus is a SUPER alpha, kinda major asshole hero. I just love the quiet but firm way that Artemis responds to him, and his totally deluded dirty talk (he calls her Diana, he tells her while he's literally inside her about how he's gonna keep her in a hunting lodge and shit lol), the sex scenes are FIRE. The line "take my come for it's all I can give you" is WILD and I adore it. Also, HE IS THE NIGHT!!! AND HE HAS A GEORGIAN HOME GYM.

Sweetest Scoundrel--I really love a hero who seems like a rogue but actually has a deeply good and gentle heart once he realizes that the heroine isn't as tough as she seems, and Asa Makepeace IS that. I love that he's so respectful of Eve's boundaries while also really admiring her emotional strength and willingness to try new things with him. Also--that carriage scene? GIRL. GIRL. ICONIC.

Duke of Sin--I just really admire the absolutely insanity of this book. I also enjoy a villain hero who really doesn't reform at the end. He's just in love. He still does villainy, but he's found love and he prioritizes his love. Also, Bridget, similarly to Artemis, watches his carnage and goes "Well" which is a thing I have a weakness for. Just a heroine shaking her head and being like "I don't know what I expected.

Dearest Rogue--this one is really sweet, especially by the bananas standards of Maiden Lane. I love a bodyguard romance, and I also appreciated the fact that the heroine was blind and a good bit younger than the heroine but not infantilized. Plus, it's a good roadtrip romance.

Lord of Darkness--a "put a baby in me" romance, which I ALWAYS love. I love that this one has a mild-mannered professor type hero who like, wears spectacles and a "Night Before Christmas" sleeping cap lol. But he puts it DOWN. After an initially awkward encounter. I also love an initially awkward encounter.

Duke of Pleasure--the Return of the Ghost of St. Giles, one of the truly wildest "fakeout makeout" (except it isn't fake and is waaaay more than a makeout lol) scenes, and a cross-dressing heroine initiated into the sensual world~ by an older man. So fun.

Notorious Pleasures--controversial for cheating reasons (and Maximus is introduced and... really doesn't come off well lol) but I find it so fun. Very illicitaffairs.mp3, kinda low stakes compared to a lot of the other books, a solid romp.

Duke of Desire--this one is VERY dark and very intense, and while I think it's a beautifully written recovery book, I found it a lot heavier than Sweetest Scoundrel. Which isn't a wrong move, but it is a very sad, very emotional book you really need to be in the right emotional place for.

Darling Beast--I really need to reread this one, because I don't know if I was in right mood for it. And I do appreciate the interplay between the hero and heroine, the fact that the heroine has a job (and is an actress) and the fact that they can't speak to each other for a good while? Like I said, really need to reread.

But overall, even a mid Maiden Lane book is better than a lot of other historicals. Elizabeth Hoyt just has IT. I love the fact that these books are often about more working class or middle class characters, not just the nobility. I love the big, ambitious, wacky plots. I love the heat factor (she writes a great sex scene). It's just great.

[frankenjoly]

Midnight conversations

@suegikuweekjuly2023 // day 6: staying up all night

“Can’t sleep either?”

The question took Tetchô by surprise, to the point his jaw opened a bit when hearing his companion’s voice.

“And you can tell by my breathing or so, right.” Despite his almost monotone-sounding response, there was actually not a smidge of sarcasm in such an answer. You could indeed tell if someone was asleep or awake by their breathing rhythm, and Jôno definitely noticed that sort of stuff. Besides, ever since they finally reunited, none of them had made actual efforts to leave each other’s side for more time than necessary. Which had also inevitably led to noticing more stuff, and so on and so on.

“Did not being able to rely on me for a while make you smarter or did your blondie kid help you?”

Jôno wasn’t being really serious, he knew that much; that was why his answer was throwing his pillow towards his direction, as if they were two kids on a sleepover and not a pair of supersoldiers still recovering (physically and emotionally) from what had been dangerously close to be the end of the world and not meeting again. And his partner, instead of bothering to try and dodge, let it fall over his chest, grabbing it with intent.

“You’d actually like Kenji-kun, by the way.” More tentatively, Tetchô ended up moving, leaving his own bed to approach Jôno’s with the intention of taking back the pillow.

“Oh, I’ve talked to him.” The room might be a bit too dark to properly see his expression, but there was no need either. His tone was sprinkled with smugness all over. “And he had a lot of interesting things to say. Like telling me about your whole little speech about putting me above justice and all.”

“Huh. Guess there was no issue since I never told him to keep it a secret.” Glad there was no way Jôno could see his face starting to flush with pink, he took a hold of the pillow and pulled, meeting of course resistance. “I said ‘for five minutes’, though.”

“Oh, my, my.” After a few seconds of back and forth, Jôno finally released the pillow, but instead of going back to bed, Tetchô opted for sitting right on the bedside. Once again, they knew each other very well, and it didn’t take a genius to know some other remark was coming. “So tell me, Tetchô-san,” And even if he actually wanted to leave, Jôno’s hand latching onto his bare arm was more than a compelling reason to stay. “since I’m back at being below justice, can you at least tell me what’s my position in your ranking?”

Yes, it definitely was a blessing he couldn’t see his face at all, and how his voice never evidenced anything…

… even if his heartbeat could still throw him under the metaphorical bus.

(Also on ao3.)

[ruvviks]

hate, pain, and midnight for matvey. i do want to know about the old man

oc asks!

HATE: What does your OC hate? Why? How do they act towards the object of their hatred?

this one is very interesting because matvey hates unfairness first and foremost. from his perspective, arasaka fired him and his wife nadya because of something related to vitali, their son, that they had NOTHING to do with and it angered him immensely which honestly on its own is understandable. problem however is that nadya automatically put the blame on vitali- and with matvey's undying loyalty to his wife he ended up plotting revenge as she asked of him against vitali, despite the fact all of it was entirely out of vitali's control

matvey's hypocrisy is part of why the whole dobrynin family is so fucking dysfunctional. nadya has been causing most of the issues by being insane about everything and everyone but matvey always sided with her, viewing things from her perspective as if to keep up appearances like what they used to have to do to their own parents to be allowed to be together. except those parents are no longer there so he's performing for no one and with that being incredibly unfair toward everyone around him while that's the EXACT thing he himself hates which is what's making him side with nadya (because nadya is always yelling about how life is so unfair to her, and what's matvey to do other than believe her?)

some other more regular human things that he hates would be 1) being filmed in public, 2) ketchup and 3) the smell of gasoline

PAIN: What's the worst pain your OC has ever felt? Do they have a high pain tolerance?

despite being the broker and all that, matvey hasn't actually seen a lot of actual combat like vitali has for example. he is a boxer however and has done plenty of matches in the past, so the worst he's ever had would be a couple of broken bones. he's never been stabbed or shot before (which is quite the accomplishment in night city especially as a banker and later a high-ranked executive in arasaka)

he has a pretty decent pain tolerance because of his boxing history but also it's been a while. he's nearing his 60s. so viktor punching him right on the fucking nose in the broker fic would've definitely caused some tears to well up in the eyes that's for sure LMAO

MIDNIGHT: What keeps your OC up at night? Do they have nightmares? Fears? Anxieties? What do they do in the small hours of the morning when they should be sleeping?

matvey has pretty bad insomnia and could easily stay awake for the whole night if he wants. anything could keep him up and plenty of things have kept him up in his days- whether it's stress at work, at home, worries about meetings or deals he has to make or whatever. after he got fired it was mostly the "what now?" that kept him up at night; not necessarily worrying about money since they still had plenty, but nadya was expecting him to get revenge and how was he gonna do that? he figured it out eventually. bunch of highly unnecessary theatrics. but that took a lot of planning and a lot of sleepless nights

nowadays he would have a lot of nightmares. it takes a while for him to actually understand the gravity of his crimes and how badly he spiraled and all that but the visual of vitali bleeding out in his arms is something he will never get out of his head and it continues to haunt him in his nightmares, even though vitali is still very much alive

[jodilin65]

Made myself comfy in bed on the wedge pillow I’m so glad I had when I got the Norovirus and now I’m ready to talk-type an entry. I typically take notes in between entries so I know what I want to discuss. Where should I start?

I guess I’ll start with the Facebook deadbeats, as I call them. There are about 5 people I wouldn’t mind deleting but I don’t really have the heart to do it. Mostly neighbors. The honker and a couple of other guys. Even though the honker doesn’t appear to want anything to do with me, he’s friends only so if I want to see what he’s up to when he’s here, this is the only way to see unless he deletes me. If we ever do move, though, then he’s gone.

I don’t have the heart to delete Linda even though she’s pretty quiet. Nor do I have the heart to delete Adonis who’s been using other accounts that he doesn’t seem to want to add me to. He only checks into the one we’re connected on once in a lifetime.

I just like to keep the friend count as low as possible and only add those who really matter and are going to at least once in awhile react or comment on something of mine because it’s easier when it comes to customizing audience settings for various posts. If I had many dozens or hundreds of people to go through, that would be a real pain. So while the idea of dropping the count from 20 to 15 people is appealing, I’m going to leave things alone for now.

So my sleep isn’t cursed, huh? Yeah, right! And why would whatever’s cursing it let me sleep after 3 days of having decent energy? I don’t usually make it 3 days, after all. One or two is more like it. So what just had to happen? A power failure of course. I was sound asleep when the power went out 4 hours after I crashed. What is it with this 4-hour bullshit? I know the number 4 is very unlucky but it seems like shit that’s going to happen is usually after I’ve been asleep for 4 hours.

I had to stay up long enough for things to reset so I could restart the sound machine and the fan and turn off the bedroom and closet lights. Tom was pissed because he was in the middle of a $20 job. Luckily, when the power came back on he was able to pick up where he left off. Also luckily, it didn’t take me one or two hours to fall back asleep. I was probably up for 20 or 30 minutes, though. If it’s more than a few minutes, then that’s all it takes to leave me tired the following day, and I am. Maybe that will help keep me calm along with the fact that I cut my waiting time to 10 minutes today before coffee because I felt wound up last night. Tom thinks it’s just because I’m on nights and that’s probably true, but just to be safe from accumulation, I cut the waiting time. No more of that for a while, though, because it’s getting closer to labs.

Amanda has been upgraded and there are new games. A few stupid role-playing games but she gets some beautiful outfits for it. I asked the dev what I’m supposed to do with all my coins if gems are required to make most purchases and he says he’s got something in the works in the future.

One of the daily tasks is glitchy and she freezes. He asked for a recording of it. So Tom looked up how to record on Androids and at midnight when the tasks reset, I’ll get a recording of it.

I’m now 70% through my ride and my rank is 113. In a few days, I hope to get out of Ohio.

My TMJ seems to be a little worse lately and I may have to go back on my nasal spray. I haven’t had any sneezing fits but since the ear and nose are connected, the congestion I’ve been having puts pressure on the head and neck in general.

I didn’t know you could do this till Tom told me (damn, that guy is smart!) but I love how I can have Alexa set the brightness of the lights. Rather than have both bedroom lamps on at 100%, it’s nice to be able to have just one on at 10% at night so I have just enough light to see my way when coming and going to the bathroom. I don’t like to use the one off the hall when he’s sleeping in case he wakes up needing it.

I thought of adding tags to my Blogger entries. Well, they call them labels there. But I don’t want to go through nearly 10K entries and I don’t know that I would like seeing certain people’s names on my blog regularly right there in front of my face.

Burger Queen is better than Burger King. He got some beef patties and I made us some awesome burgers. They were definitely better than Burger King’s but not the fries. We don’t have a deep fryer because it’s not healthy so I had to bake them and baked fries just aren’t quite as good as fried.

To catch up on dreams since I didn’t write yesterday, I had a dream that I was going to ask Doc A if we could be running partners in a race which is pretty interesting considering that I can only run all of 2 minutes at 4 MPH which has certainly got to be quite laughable to her, LOL.

I was in the middle of a dream about asking Tom why he didn’t like Alyssa back in Cali when the power failure woke me up.

When I went back to sleep I had a dream that I ordered hair dye and received an assortment of different colored wigs instead.

Then I dreamed that we were vacationing somewhere. He was finishing up charging the car when a bull that had been loose in the area approached the car that I was sitting in. The thing started ramming my door and Tom hurried to disconnect the car and get us out of there.

Back at the lodge we were staying at, we asked someone who worked there if they’d seen the bull and the guy said, “We haven’t seen him since Saturday.” It was the middle of the week so that told me it had been a few days.

As we were walking down some corridors later on, I noticed a door open on one end and hoped the bull couldn’t fit through it if it happened by.

[boston-slayer]

Chasing Midnight

It was nights last this that made Faith ask one question, "what the fuck am I doing with my life." She sat at her desk, reading over the latest autopsy report. The coroner's report indicated the death was unusual, to her, it was typical. The unusual became Faith's normal as her years as the Slayer wore on. She couldn't figure out what precisely was killing these people. All she knew was that this was highly likely supernatural in origin. Being law enforcement was a double edged sword.

If she was going to patrol the streets for vamps and bad guys, she may as well get paid for it. Becoming a cop helped. Faith rose in rank to homicide detective. In that decade, she'd seen worst of man and demon kind. The crime surges near the Hellmouth were always high. Some years were higher than others. At least when she tackled someone in a graveyard in uniform nobody asked twice.

Nights like this were worse than the biggest demons she faced.

Three dead kids, all unknown causes. She hated child cases, the depravity of some people made her wish she could handle them like she did the monsters of the night. Faith often wondered if those same monsters they slayed were truly as evil as some of the killers she took off the street. The abduction of Bernadette Tyler became national headlines. 16 year old Bernadette Tyler, was a popular model and actress in California. She was no celebrity, well, not until now.

Her office phone rang, she looked at the clock that hung on the wall across from her. Great. Nothing good came from after hour calls.

"Lehane speaking." She answered it, bracing herself for the possibility they found Bernadette Tyler's body. Her brows furrowed, it was their unit chief.

"I was informed by my supervisor, that the FBI and CIA will be assisting us in this investigation." Her unit chief said.

"CIA, you're kidding?" Her heart raced and her blood went cold. Shit, she expected the feds being invited into this case, but the CIA? This changed the entire nature of the case. Supernatural or not, the CIA never got involved in homegrown cases, that was the FBI's job. The CIA specialized in international crimes that would compromise the safety of the United States. If they both were being invited into the case, then this meant two things; she was going to have the Goon Squad breathing down her neck at all hours, worse, they could be dealing with a trafficking ring, hitmen, hell even possibly a new terrorist cell. Any one of those dynamics would be ground for CIA involvement. All of those options were made worse by the supernatural deaths of these past five victims.

"Why?" She said after she collected her thoughts. "What are they thinking this is?" Faith needed an idea of what she was walking into at tomorrow's meeting.

"They didn't say much. I want you to get these agents up to speed tomorrow when they arrive." He said.

Faith thought out a string of curses, but, kept her voice level and professional. "Will do. What time are they expected to arrive?"

With the details arranged, Faith hung up and took one last look at the clock. Dammit, time to patrol. her concentration on her work was gone.

Her eyes blurred from the long hours and caffeine crash. Reaching into her bag, she grabbed her medication and took them. It'd keep her alert for the night rounds. She grabbed her belongings and left the precinct.

The night was uncomfortably silent. Faith walked her familiar stomping grounds, seeing nothing out of the ordinary. She focused on the teen hotspots, ensuring they weren't targeted. Not even an opportunistic vampire. It was unsettling; a calm before a storm that Faith couldn't pinpoint.

She walked the graveyard, the old high school and university, nothing. The only excitement was trying to fight her sleep paralysis demon long enough to finish patrol. As she walked by the local bar, she spotted a familiar blond figure step outside to smoke. She stopped in front of him and smiled, "mind if I bum one?"

Spike shrugged and handed her a cigarette. "How's patrol, found any boogiemen?" He asked and took a deep breath of smoke.

"Besides you? Nothing." She snorted. Faith leaned against the wall beside him and took a few drags. "They're calling in the feds and CIA over this Tyler case." Faith said and cursed. "The last thing I need is for them to be breathing down my neck." She and Spike kept tabs on the ongoings of Sunnydale. "It's not a typical abduction, this wreaks of demonic activity and I can't say a damn thing about it." Supernatural phenomenon were not unusual sights for her team. However, for her to admit she was part of it would ruin her career if not worse.

Spike chuckled, "sucks playing both sides, doesn't it?" A slayer being a detective was like a vampire being a doctor. It didn't happen and when it did, it usually went to hell eventually.

Faith finished her cigarette, "have you heard anything from B and the others?" At this rate, sucking in her pride and asking for their help, was tempting. No, she couldn't involve them in this. She could lose her badge if she was caught dragging "civilians" into a murder investigation. Being slayers and witches didn't change the laws around civilian affairs. As much as she hated it, she had to play by the rules; more so now than ever before.

In her decades since the fight with the First, Faith grew up a lot. Now on the eve of her 40th birthday, she learned she couldn't take the law into her own hands, but god did she want to sometimes. She didn't play Bad Cop with a chip on her shoulder like she did when she first joined the force.

Spike didn't answer right away, but eventually finished his cigarette and chased it with his beer. "Not lately. They've been on some quest for a magic weapon or something." They didn't tell him anything and frankly Spike didn't care, or so he told himself.

"Fun." Faith said unenthusiastically. A silence lapsed between them, the two finding it peaceful. The night was calm and clear despite how it unsettled her.

Spike finished his beer and said, "Right then, I'll see what I can find out on this Tyler kid." He didn't want to do it, he'd rather follow his vampire instincts and smash his beer bottle over the Slayer's head. However, Spike wanted to prove to Faith and the others that he was good and dependable.

Faith looked over at him curiously. She didn't entirely trust him, but, he'd proven time and again he could be. Faith half smiled at him and grabbed a business card from her wallet.

Spike raised his hand and shook his head, "I know how to find you." He smirked and looked around the small town, debating where to go next. "Just keep the goon squad from sniffing around my crypt." He half waved as he walked off down the street.

She didn't know what to make of that last remark but didn't think much of it. Faith called it an early night and went into the bar to drink her troubles away for the evening. If she was lucky, she'd get a few hours of sleep before she had to do this all again tomorrow.

[purplesurveys]

1700

When was the last time you got more then eight hours of sleep? I think Friday? I actually fell asleep relatively early, around midnight; and ended up sleeping in, too. I think I had gotten up only by 10 AM.

Do you find that people don't really understand you? Maybe as an angsty teenager, but I don’t feel like this these days. It’s probably also a matter of finding the people who do understand me. Is there anyone in your life that you wish you were closer to? Now that I know Trina is leaving for Canada for good, I really want to get even closer to her in the three months she has left in the country. I’m glad that we got close at all, especially after getting promoted. She used to just be this high-ranking workmate who I thought was untouchable.

Would you say you are a gullible person? Very. I am everyone’s favorite for jokes and light pranks.

Are you one to swear often? I do tend to swear a lot, yeah.

Have you ever sat down and played video games all day? Only when I was younger and got obsessed with playing Sims 2. I no longer play video games but am very much capable of being on my phone all day and just go from one app to another.

What is one thing in your life that is no longer there, that you miss? Kimi.

What do you believe is the best thing about being a kid? Hard to tell when you’ve had a rougher childhood compared to everyone else. Idk...being doted on, I guess? I lacked attention in my own home.

What flavor Dum-Dum is your favorite? I have no clue what that is.

What is the last book you read/are reading? Did you/are you enjoying it? That would probably be Around the World in Eighty Days; it’s a good read, but I’ve just never had the time to continue it. I haven’t resumed reading since January.

Are you on a laptop or a desktop right now? Laptop; I have never owned a desktop.

If you could go anywhere right now, where would you go; why? I’m feeling significantly attached to Bangkok right now because it has been exactly three weeks since we saw Yoongi. Our trip overall was quite short – only four days total – so it only makes the feeling of ‘missing’ Bangkok a lot more intense. I miss the place, I miss their great public transport, I miss the nightlife, but I will say that I do not miss the weather. Remembering how humid it is over there still makes me squirm lol

Have you ever trusted someone you wish you wouldn't have? Yeah.

Have you ever been on a picnic? I’ve never been. I wish we had picnic-friendly places so I can actually experience a picnic. When I was at KL and was repeatedly going to their park, I felt really envious of the families who were there with picnic mats out and eating. I could only wish they recognize what they have.

Which is better tea or coffee? Coffee; I never liked tea.

Do you own an umbrella? Yeah, I keep it in the car.

Do you like the ocean? Sure.

Is there anyone that you wish you were with right now? No, I’m okay being on my own for the most part.

Who was the last person you hung out with? Bea, Ysa, Trina, and several members of a co-agency that we regularly work with for PR events..

What animal cracker is your favorite? I haven’t had those since I was, like, 5.

Is there anything you're currently holding back? Yeahhhhhh I wish I could just tell the team not to promote me, honestly; at least not yet. I don’t want to leave the company, but please give me like 1-2 years before stepping up to the next position. It sounds very bitchy and ungrateful to say on paper, but I’ve been promoted every single year I’ve been in the company and it always comes with a wave of fear and pressure every time. I wish I had longer periods of incubation(??? lol) before getting asked to step up to the next level.

Do you like your smile? Sure!

Have you ever watched something on the TV that truly disturbed you? Mostly commercials or when networks sign off for the night and do their ominous creepy jingles before transitioning to that TV rainbow screen thing.

Are you scared of needles? Yes. I am 100% not the poster child for vaccines and tattoos.

Is your current cell phone out of date? Not at all. I know tech companies churn out new products at 34788394x speed and in their terms an iPhone 13 can be considered old-ish, but all things considered a 1 year old phone isn’t bad at all. I’m not in a rush to get a new one as mine still works just fine.

Have you ever drank milk when it was spoiled? Ugh, yeah. I remember an instance when I was around 5-6, I drank some Milo that turned out to be spoiled and immediately ran to the sink to frantically spit it out because it tasted horrific. Ever since then I’ve had a fear of drinking milk.

Would you/have you ever bought a gym membership? I’ve thought about it before; didn’t push through with it. These days, I wouldn’t think of getting one.

Have you ever bought anything on the TV? Nopes.

Have you ever done something that you knew was wrong? Sure.

Do you know what all the keys on your keyboard do? Not all. I still don’t know what the ‘fn’ key does and I’ve never tried using it for anything.

What is the last channel you were on, when watching TV? I’ve never watched TV for the channels in agesssssssss. We cut out cable starting 2020, too.

What is your favorite restaurant? Closest to being my favorite is probably Mendokoro Ramenba but in general I don’t think I have found my favorite restaurant yet.

What is the last thing you spent money on? Just prepaid load, lol. I’m on major budgeting mode as I think my family is planning a trip to Incheon – something I’m largely against because unsurprisingly my mom never consulted with us and each of us is suddenly in charge of chipping in for something – and I need to make sure my track record as far as money looks acceptable for the visa application.

Do you know of anyone who hates you? I don’t think so.

Lose your arm or your leg; Which do you choose? I don’t like this question at all, but for the sake of answering this I’d pick the leg.

Has an animal ever bit you? Like, a genuinely angry bite? Yes, from Cooper. I feel like after getting those six shots in one day I can surpass anything.

Have you ever tripped over your own feet? Sure.

Do you ever take out the garbage? Yes.

Do wash your face thoroughly everyday? Yes, first thing I do in the morning and last thing I do before turning in.

Would you ever do a ride along with a cop? No.

Are things, in your opinion, overly expensive these days? They are, as a fact, more expensive.

Where was your last car ride to? Apart from getting back home, I went from MOA to Feliz to have lunch with my family earlier.

Are your nails long? They aren’t.

Have you ever gotten food poisoning? Yes. Hate it.

Have you ever had to put a dog to sleep? I have not.

What messenger services do you use? Messenger, Viber, Telegram, and very occasionally Whatsapp.

Have you ever lost someone important to you? Of course.

Are you listening to music currently? No but I have an episode of GMM in the background.

[astrronomemes]

A NOVEL I’LL NEVER PUBLISH : STARTERS

a collection of quotes, phrases, and sayings from a YA novel I wrote back in high school. change & alter as needed.

“Are you just going to keep staring at that thing all day?”

“This is a bank, right? ...So why does it look like there’s some serious horror movie shit going down here?”

“Personally, I think she was just born a bitch.”

“Get yourself something to eat.”

“We’ve got to get this place cleaned up and looking nice.”

“It only takes sixty seconds of your time, but the peace of mind it gives you will last for a lifetime.”

“And you’re not frightened of needles, right?”

“That’s got more lies printed on it than a presidential campaign poster.”

“Remember that weekend in Los Angeles? Well, this is just like that, except we’re not using dynamite, and there won’t be any human sacrifices.”

“Oh, god, it���s trying to break the door down!”

“Did you get that off a bumper sticker?”

“No one wants to deal with your shit, [name]. Why else do you think your parents ditched you?”

“I’m fine. I ate last night.”

“Yes, a fair number of global concerns could be resolved if only people would stop ‘saying things’.”

“I’m sorry that happened to you.”

“It’s been like this for as long as I can remember.”

“My parents weren’t really into all that sentimental ‘loving your child’ shit.”

“Do you think it’s after midnight yet?”

“Correct me if I’m wrong, [name], but I’m pretty sure no one in recorded history has ever had laser vision.”

“Still, it’s kind of cool, isn’t it?”

“There’s no reason to be nervous, honey. It’s just standard procedure.”

“Things will get better. They just have to.”

“We have enough to keep the lights on, or the water running, but not both.”

“Look, nobody cares about people like us, okay? They never do. They never will. We’re on our own out here.”

“Apparently, I’ve joined the ranks of the demons. That’s what the priest told me when he was trying to ‘save my immortal soul’, or whatever.”

“I’m just a fuck-up, okay?! I fuck everything up! Everything! All the time! That’s why I’m alone! That’s why no one wants anything to do with me!”

“I’m sorry it didn’t work out for us, son.”

“She’s probably just mad at us for breathing. Repeated offenses, you know.”

“I’m doing this for you! For all of you!”

“We’ll leave a light on for you.”

“You’ve always been a part of our family, [name]. You just took the long way coming home.”

[edelfan]

Trigger warning: suicide attempt

I'm sorry for this. I'm going through a rough time myself and this just wanted to be written.

It was way past midnight and the hallways of the Naval hospital were deserted except for the night nurse who kept making her turns. One room though was filled with people, all gathered around the pale figure lying in the bed and being kept alive by the countless machines he was connected to.

I'm sorry that it has come to this, but then it's not like you guys are gonna miss me anyway.

Admiral Kazansky had used the power of his rank as COMPACFLT to make sure that they could stay with him 24/7 - especially after learning that there was no family or other next of kin to be called.

My father was right. I'm not good for anything, not even when I brought home straight As, not even when I get those meaningless medals.

The room was small. The only two chairs available were occupied by Phoenix and Rooster. The rest of the Daggers were lined up along the walls, Bob having a supporting hand on Phoenix's shoulder. Maverick was standing at the foot of the bed, leaning on the rails as if it was the only thing keeping him upright.

I know I've been an asshole most of the time. It's the only way I managed to survive for this long. Don't show weakness, don't let them come close because you'll only be hurt in the end.

"Anybody, but him... I mean if I'd only known how he really felt," Phoenix mumbled, clumsily wiping at the tears that kept coming. Without saying a word, Bob wrapped her in a hug from behind.

Maverick was right in not choosing me. Rooster was right when he said that I lead people to an early grave. Funny that in the end it seems to be my own.

"The doctors said that the next 72 hours are critical. He needs to start breathing on his own or else..." Maverick sighed, laying his hand on the blanket over Jake's legs in hopes that the young man could feel that he wasn't alone. "Damn it, kid. Not like this, you hear me, son?"

I really thought that I had proofed myself by saving Maverick and Rooster. I had really hoped that I found a squadron, in which I am not the one on the sidelines. I had hoped that maybe we could be friends...

For a long time there was silence in the room - except for the hissing ventilator and the beeping heart monitor.

But I keep fucking up. I keep running my mouth and I keep making the same mistakes over and over again.

"I shouldn't have said those things to him the other day. Hell, I know how it is up there... Fuck, Jake, I'm sorry." Fritz's voice was hoarse as he let himself slip down the wall, ending up in a heap on the floor.

Tell Javy that I am sorry. I'm just too tired.

Javy was standing by the window, looking out into the darkness. Ever since he had helped Rooster and the medics getting Jake into the ambulance, he hadn't said a word.

Tell Rooster Bradley that I am sorry. I am sorry for what I did the first time we met at Top Gun. I shouldn't have pressured you so much into... well, you know what I'm talking about. If only... who knows, we could have been quite the power couple, right? No matter what I said back then, I still love you... so much.

Bradley was a mess. He hadn't left Jake's side since breaking open the younger man's door and finding him on the floor. Sitting next to the bed, he held Jake's hand while also caressing his hair. Too many people had left him behind already, he wouldn't let Jake go, he couldn't let him go. "You damn idiot... Why didn't you say anything? I still fucking love you, too. You can't leave me, baby, please..."

See you on the other side.

[benimarusfavoritewife]

‘ I’m here..’ , Yuta Okkotsu x reader

Note :

Hey everyone! Hope you’re having a good morning/afternoon/night. So, I wrote a new ‘ short story’ ? related to the anime Jujutsu Kaisen this time. I guess that you all know what it’s going to be about because of the title x)!! Anyways, enjoy~

Characters included: Okkotsu Yuta.

Type : Fluff.

( I would like to apologyze if there are any mistakes ;-; )

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<3

It was midnight and half, already. You were sitting in your classmate’s room, on his bed. Silence was dominating the place. You were fixing the infinity, while him, was slowly and carefully holding your hand, disinfecting the huge scratch on it with some alcohol. You couldn’t talk, you didn’t want to, you weren’t able to do so. 

He kept paying attention to how your wounds were, focusing on healing them, until you slightly hissed. Your noise caught his attention, which led him to raise his head and look at you.

“ Are you okay?? I’m sorry I.. didn’t mean to hurt you.. “

You slightly nodded. After seeing how your response was, he kept looking at you, until he noticed, finally.

Sadness.

That’s what he was seeing. Sadness in your eyes. Or we’d say, a mixture of sadness and pain, pain and regret, regret and shame.

He froze for a minutes,  his eyes still on our face. 

You noticed how the man stopped, which made you raise your head, and lock eyes with him. But you immediately looked away.

“ ... “ You were quiet, so was he. But your reasons weren’t the same. Him, just didn’t know what to say. But you, you just couldn’t talk. 

Why was that? Well, it’s all because of the incident of earlier, where you tried to exorcise a rank S cursed spirit, but ended up getting beaten up like a worthless insect. Lucky for you, Yuta came right on time to save you, or you would have been dead, already. Ah, look how too confident and impatient people end up. How sad. 

“ You...- “

“ Have you finished? “ You directly asked, trying to avoid any conversation.

Yuta closed his mouth. “ ...No.., Sorry.. “ he answered, getting back to his work.

After some long, long moments, Yuta finally finished with your arms, legs, and ankles. All of them were covered in bandages. Without forgetting your right eye, and your left cheek. Your shoulders as well.

“ There, you’ll need to rest well for now, that’s all.. “

“ Thank you. “ Your eyes still looking away, you decided to stand up. But as you were about to do so, Yuta caught you by grabbing your hand, gently pulling you to him, slightly hugging you while making sure he doesn’t touch your wounded places.

Your eyes widened, you were surprised, and you didn’t know what to do. But once you felt his arms around you, your eyes started to automatically tear up. You slowly slid your hands to his chest, as you lowered your head a little, clenching your jaw.

‘’ Screw all of this... ‘‘ you mumbled, as your tears started to slowly slide down your face.

After he heard you, he put his hand on the back of your head, while his other hand was gently rubbing your back.

“ You can cry, feel free to. I won’t judge you. Cry if it’ll make you feel better, or if you need to do so. I’ll support you. Just stop hiding from me everything while you suffer in silence, because it will just make things worse. And.. knowing that you hide things from me bothers me. I.. know it’s hard but.. please don’t feel bad nor guilty for what happened. It’s not your fault, okay? You did what you could, and I’m sure that you’ve improved, and a lot. (Y/n), stop adding so much pressure to yourself. I’m proud of you, more than you could imagine. “

These words, that soft and comforting voice, that tone used, that gently touch. Because of all these things, you could feel able to be yourself, to stop hiding everything you’ve been keeping for yourself. You could be you, with him.

You always had a thing for Yuta, and what he just did right now could make you the happiest girl ever, too happy that you would even end up crying tears of happiness. 

“ Yuta... “ you started, while sobbing, crying.

“ You can let it all out, I’ll be listening.. I’ll stay with you until you get better. “

“ Yuta... “ You called again. “ Did you really mean what you said..? Didn’t you say all these just to make me feel better? Don’t you think that I’m a failure? That I’m weak? Worthless? I swear... I’ve been trying to impress my seniors for a long time..! But I can’t even beat a rank S cursed spirit... “ 

“ You know that I would never lie to you, (Y/n). I really meant what I said. I’m sure that if you give yourself a little bit more of time, you’ll be able to beat a strong cursed spirit. “

You slightly smiled, as you started to calm down.

“ I’ve been seeing you lately these days. You’ve been training every day, doing the best you can. I won’t lie, that made me admire you. Working hard to save people... Really, (Y/n), you’re doing amazing. So please stop badmouthing yourself.. It’s... bad. “

You nodded as a response, deeply and slowly breathing against his chest.

“ Oh.. And um, also, about your.. training. I know many people asked you and you always refused but.. Would you mind if I helped you improve? I could teach you some nice moves and.. y’know! “ While suggesting training with you, Yuta seemed kind of shy. The way he was asking you... You found it cute. Cute that almost your heart exploded.

To answer him, you let go of him and adjusted yourself to sit correctly and face him. Once both of you guys’ eyes met eachothers, you brightly smiled, quickly nodding. “ Yes, yes! I... want Yuta to train with me. Okkotsu Yuta! The guy I’ve been taking as a example to do better.. every single day! “ You claimed, in a cheerful and happy tone.

After what you said, with such a happy face, a slight pink appeared on Yuta’s cheeks. “ Wait... Me?! “ He almost said in a loud voice, pointing at himself. He looked surprised, and a lot.

You kept watching him, until the realization hit your brain. At your surprise, you slightly jumped before slapping your own mouth with both of your hands. “ Did I say too much..? I’m sorry! I.. I didn’t.. uh.. “ You tried to find the right words, but got interrupted by Yuta’s giggle. You looked at him once again. “ It’s fine, don’t worry! I’m kind of happy and glad to know about this. Such a honor to be taken as a good example by (Y/n)! “ He said, using the same cheerful voice.

You laughed, finding it funny. After that, you sighed. “ Yuta, you really are the best. Saving me two times in a day- no, three times! From the curse, from my wounds and injuries, and now from my mental breakdown! I don’t even know how will I be able to pay you back. “

“ No no! “ he raised his hand a little, showing his palms while shaking them to you. “ No need to thank me! We’re friends, this is totally normal! “

“ Friends.. Yeah.. ahah..” You shook your head. “ A-anyways, I’m going to sleep.. “

“ Oh, right.. It’s getting late, already. “ Yuta looked at you, he then slid his hand to the back of his neck. “ Hey.. would you like to spend the night with me? We could talk about whatever you want until we fall asleep.. What do you think? “ 

“ Wait, really? “

“ Mhm. “ He nodded, softly smiling at you.

“ Oh yes! I mean..! It sounds good, I’d like to spend the night with you. Plus, it would make me fall asleep easier.. “

“ Then let’s just lay in there, I’m starting to get tired.. “

“ Mhm, me too.. “

Once both of you laid on the bed, Okkotsu kept looking at the ceilings, while you, you were watching him. 

What a pretty smile he had. And his black eyes, how cute. His black sleepy eyes. Including his messy hair, and his perfect smooth and soft-looking skin.

“ Oh my god. I think I really fell in love this time.. “ You whispered to yourself.

“ Hm? Did you say something, (Y/n)? I feel like I... heard something. “ 

Yuta turned his head towards you, looking at you. Not gonna lie, you felt awkward. Your head turned into a tomato, and you started to question your existence.

“ I..! I said that I think I finally can fall asleep this time.. “

“ Oh..! Ahahah! “ Yuta nervously laughed, “ I must be dreaming, then.. Sorry! I’m sleepy so.. “ he added, looking back at the ceilings.

“ I understand, don’t.. worry.. Anyways, good night, Yuta. “

“ Sleep well, (Y/n).. “

That time, you almost got caught. What a relief for you, though, he was sleepy.

 You kept watching the boy you love, until you fell asleep.

Ah, what a beautiful night you spent. Painful, but soon turned into an amazing one. Just because of a boy your age, named Yuta Okkotsu.

But even after all what he does for you, for your good, are those same feelings reciprocated? Well, maybe you’ll never be able to know, since you’ll never be able to do one single step.

But at least, he’s with you, and you’re with him. And that’s all that mattered for you.