#i didn't include bcs i have no idea of their dynamic | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

purelyfiction · 21 days ago

Text

Small Doses - 3

Jake “Hangman” Seresin x F!Reader | Part 1 | Part 2 |

Summary:

Word Count: words

Content Warning: This story will have TopGun: Maverick plot line elements to it and will possibly spoil the movie for you. Please be aware. This - and all of my stories - is 18+. By continuing to read you agree that you are 18 or older and that any content you come across is by your own discretion. || HEY THERE’S SMUT DOWN THERE SO YOU BETTER BE 18!!! (unprotected piv (don’t be hangman - use protection pals), including public and semi-public settings; possessive and intense behavior; strong language; physical marking (hickies); power dynamics in sexual situations; interrupted intimacy; implied consent.)

Author’s Note: remember when i said 'long time no see!' and then didn't update for over a year???? yeah me too. so much has happened since the last time i updated this story and i think it's about damn time for some new stuff in knockout x hangman land (hangout? i guess?) also i've had one other pair of eyes on this other than mine so keep any plot holes or grammar mistakes to yourself bc i cannot take criticism at this time. k thanksssss

█ ✪ █▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓█ ✪ █

It’s Half-Price Wing Wednesday at the Hard Deck. Which means that it’s a given that everyone (actually everyone) would be commiserating over drinks and cheap chicken after work. And despite the fact that seeing Jake outside of work again was as bad of an idea as leaving your car unlocked in LA - you decide to go to the bar.

The two of you haven’t spoken much outside of direct conversations over comms at work. You’d scolded him for ditching his wingman - then handed his ass to him. He didn’t speak to you the rest of the day.

You change at home, throwing on a pair of jean shorts and a random shirt. You’re not looking to impress, you’re just needing to unwind. And when you pull up in the familiar vehicle, you’re immediately spotted. You’re not sure why you even try to walk into the building, hell, why you even attempt to sneak past the familiar F150. Jake spots you instantly and grabs a hold of you by the pocket of your shorts, tugging you between his truck and the car next to him. You’re lucky the sun is setting and it’s near dark when Jake latches to your neck.

“And where do you think you’re running off to?” his breath is hot on your skin, teeth scraping against already slick skin.

“Hangman, I’m going to the bar. I’m hungry, don’t test me.” You can’t move from the spot, locked against the side of the vehicle, chest to chest with the man.

He huffs out a laugh, “yeah, so am I.” It’s punctuated with a familiar click of a car door handle, before he’s guiding you into the back seat. You’ve got half the mind to shut this down. There are so many people you both know - your students - that could see this. When you thought about it, laying back on the leather of the truck’s cab seats, the man above you was also your student. Suddenly you don’t care as much.

The click of the locks on each of the doors sounds. Someone has clearly learned his lesson. Lock the damn door if you’re about to wreck someone. Jake’s lips carelessly slot themselves between yours, his hips digging into yours as he eagerly grabs at your shirt. You’re almost certain if you hadn’t needed to abide by the ‘no shoes, no shirt’ policy at the Hard Deck, he would’ve torn the old t-shirt in two.

You’re also sure that Penny would be mortified if she knew what was happening in her parking lot right now. Not that it was the first time you’ve done this. Or Jake. Thank god she would never find out.

Unless she went snooping under your bed, there was no way to know what the two of you had been up to. Or that a six foot sailor climbed out her window the next morning.

Jake abandons the idea of getting you naked, needing to get release from pent up need that didn’t get an escape the other night. The button of your shorts pops in a matter of seconds as his heavy breaths fall from him.

“No colorful monologue? Super disappointed, two stars, Jake.” Hands quickly tug your denim shorts down, just below your knees, underwear going with it before one hand is undoing his belt, the other sliding up your thigh slowly.

“I don’t know if you noticed, I’m a little preoccupied.” A finger glides through your folds, a laugh leaving him when he feels the slickness there. “What a slut you are, I grabbed you not even five minutes ago and you’re already soaked for me.”

You’re fully convinced that his words are what keep you coming back. It wasn’t the vivid green eyes or the towering height he was known for. Or the charismatic grin he always shoots at you. Like a hunter when he witnesses his prey. None of those things did you in the way that his smart tongue did.

That same tongue is making his way back past your lips, preventing any further smartass comments from you. It’s just hot, shallow breaths through noses that are smushed up against one another. His hands are moving in a practiced pattern, one toying with you as he shuffles his jeans around, pushing them down just enough. One knee pushes your legs further apart, allowing him to properly position himself. Jake soon enough recedes his hand, much to your chagrin. It relocates itself to your hip, the other matching its counterpart. He peels himself from you momentarily before tugging your body closer towards his own. “Get your ass over here.”

The motion causes your shirt to roll up underneath you. The leather seats were bound to stick to your skin as the heat of California snuck into the dark cabin of the truck. Especially once Jake has fully entered you, and begun to rut into you.

Familiarity and pleasure meld together as he stretches you. The sound slips from you and he chastises you. “Hey, pipe down, baby. I’ll know you were just fucked, but no one else needs to know you did.” His words are paired with that stupid grin again.

Your eyes sink shut with the sensation he’s starting to build up, a hand on the back of the passenger seat for stability, the other gripping your thigh. Hot kisses are littered up your neck-

The cab ceiling echoes a thunk, thunk above the both of you.

“Yo! I’m starvin’ man, get your ass outta there!” Payback’s voice is barely audible through the tempered and tinted glass. And thank God it was.

“Pen’s gonna run outta drumsticks and you’re gonna be pissed. I don’t wanna hear it.” Mickey tags in. Oh good, now you’re thinking of your aunt while this man is on top of you. And in you.

The mood is once again murdered in cold blood. Jake is cursing under his breath, multitudes about kicking someone’s ass and losing his sanity and his balls to his team’s interruptions. His dramatics continue once your shorts are back where they belong, and his own pants are fastened. “Do you think they make those deer repelling devices for invasive aviators?” The suggestion makes you snort and you expertly climb down from the lifted vehicle. Jake nods your direction, a silent suggestion to go ahead. The last thing you needed was for you to appear in the bar simultaneously.

You settle into a booth with a drink in your hand not even ten minutes later. The cool liquid is appreciated, as is the quick service to order your wings. Looking around - there’s no sign of Hangman. Cautiously, you look back to the table full of coworkers as your regular waitress takes your orders. “Shouldn’t we wait for Hangman?” You suggest. Phoenix is the one to speak up.

“He wants wings, he can get his high and mighty ass in here.” With that, she’s easily ordering her food. Not even sixty seconds after the staff leaves the table, Jake appears. He smells like his go to cologne. Did he keep a bottle in his truck? You could vomit a little. And to think he was just inside you fifteen minutes ago.

“Finally, we thought you weren’t ever gonna show.” Coyote gripes, scooting down the booth to make room for the pilot.

The U shaped booth could hold just about all of you - which is why Bob and Rooster are sitting at a high top not far off. Bob had been asking questions about Bradshaw’s Bronco, and you all figured it was best to let them continue in the spontaneous interview.

Once you’ve scooted a few ways down, Hangman settles in right across the table from you. His hands fiddle with a menu, looking over his options. You avoid his eye contact, turning instead to the conversation that is sparking up.

“Question for you, Bagman.” Phoenix remarks, Jake nods, not lifting his eyes from the laminate page. “That helmet for protection, or just keeping your ego contained? Might wanna check the buckle tomorrow.”

The breath you take in feels way sharper than you intended it being. Jake’s eyes float up to Phoenix and then the rest of the table. He finally sets the menu down.

“Appreciate the advice, Trace. I’ll double-check my buckle — and you, maybe wipe your visor next time. Could help you actually hit something.” You bring your bottom lip between your teeth, fighting back a grin. It almost felt normal here. Well, if you forgot about the outstanding weirdness between you and Jake, you could’ve been one of the gang. Never mind the fact that you were a co-instructor for this group of individuals.

That was a reality you weren’t really unwrapping quite yet. These guys were around your age. You’d been in their shoes not even a year ago. Now suddenly you’re in charge and teaching them. It felt odd and in retrospect, how much did they actually have to learn from you?

Perhaps that's why you are a co-instructor and not the lead. Suddenly, you’re grateful for the experience. Then you remember that the instructor is the same man that broke your aunt’s heart and the discontentment burrows itself right back where it had been residing during its hibernation. Your mind is rebooted when a plate of wings is slid in front of you. Your priorities change very quickly after that.

With dinner out of the way, the group of you surrender your table to other hungry customers, before staking claim at the pool table, like usual. You’re not very good at billiards but that doesn’t stop you from partnering up with Phoenix against Rooster and Fanboy. Bob and Payback sit as onlookers. Coyote and Hangman are on the far side of the room, cuddled up to the dartboard. It isn’t until you’re watching Rooster take his turn that you overhear their conversation.

“I’ve had that thing for years man. And I’ve been doing some shopping online, trying to find something to replace the damn thing - we’re talkin’ 200 bucks for a piece of wood. I don’t even drink coffee for God’s sake.” He huffs the air out with the propelling dart leaving his hand. “Not to mention, your little guest appearance yesterday left me high and dry with her. Thanks for that by the way.” Jake sends another dart soaring.

“How was I supposed to know you had a girl over? It was right after work, I didn’t think you’d get into it so damn quick.” The green eyed male glares at his counterpart before approaching the board and grabbing his darts so that Coyote can take his turn.

“I wasn’t replying to any texts, so you thought to just show up unannounced? You know what, next time I’ve got an inkling you’ve got a girl ‘round, I’ll be sure to introduce myself.” He scoffs, shaking his head. “It’s been almost a week and we keep gettin’ interrupted.” He grumbles. “I swear my sister’s husband has better luck getting laid and they’ve got two under two.”

“That’s probably why they’ve got two under two.” Coyote snorts.

The clack of the billard balls reminds you that you’re supposed to be paying attention to the game in front of you. Rooster apparently has sunk two balls in while you were eavesdropping on the conversation. Good for him.

You take your turn rather hastily before pushing your stick into Phoenix’s hand. “I’m gonna go grab another drink.” You say.

“Grab me another?” The glass in her hand rattles as she shakes the ice in front of you.

“Sure thing, Phe.” You give her a kind smile before heading off to the bar. Penny greets you, quickly starting on your drink. “I need one for Phoenix too.” You add, which she notes.

“Yeah, I’ll have Ryan grab that, sweetheart. Ry!” The brunette calls out to the other person behind the bar top, who’s currently closing a tab. A dark haired man with glasses turns to look at your aunt. “You got a second hand that can pour me a draft of Liberty Pole when you get a minute?” When your drink arrives in front of you, the woman swiftly makes her way to the next bar occupant.

Bespectacled, Ryan appears in front of you not long after that. He pushes the glass toward you with a grin. “There you are, beautiful.”

You let a small smile creep over your features. “You don’t need to sweet talk the boss’ niece you know.” It’s more teasing than you intended on it being. You’d had it happen before, seasonal help trying to flirt with you in hopes you’d relay their generosity to Penny for some brownie points.

“I was sweet talking a pretty lady. Not the boss’ niece.” He clarifies. Curiosity digs at you.

“Oh? That so?” There’s an easy grin that follows your quizzical comments. Ryan lets out a snicker with a nod.

“Yes ma’am. I’d offer to keep your drinks on the house, but- I’d hate for you to think I’m playing favorites.” You swear he winks at you.

“Dually noted, Ryan.” The words float with the same energy he’s been giving you. It wouldn’t kill you to live a little. Not like things with Jake were actually going to go anywhere.

You half expect him to have a girl on his arm when you turn back toward the pool table. There’s no girl. In fact, there’s no Jake.

Coyote’s joined in the crowd that’s gathered over the table, talking strategy with Rooster when you return. Natasha gives an easy thank you as she takes her beer. You almost spill it when the deafening bass of the jukebox roars over the room. A high pitched guitar and steady drumline follow it.

It sounds like bar music. It startled you, only due to the noise it was creating. It seemed to have annoying characteristics to everyone else around you. Phoenix’s head drops backwards as she groans outwardly. There’s a similar air of displeasure among the group.

Your brow furrows as Rooster pushes his stick into Fanboy’s free hand, before disappearing into the growing crowd of the bar. When you look at the dark haired woman and her backseater, they’re looking at each other in annoyance.

“Am I missing something?” You question, before the jukebox dies completely. The collective sound of the room is a mix of groans and call outs to whoever stopped the music. Everyone is looking in the direction of the jukebox. All you can make out through the crowd is a moving Hawaiian shirt, followed by a few tickling keys of a piano wafting over the room.

You don’t get to linger in it very long before your drink is stolen from your hand and you’re practically kidnapped from behind. If you didn’t recognize the feeling of the hands on your waist - you would’ve audibly screamed.

Jake’s pulled you back and then directed you toward the bathrooms, a familiar sight for many reasons. There was the time you threw up for a consecutive forty-five minutes after a friend’s bachelorette party when you were twenty-four. Then there was the summer in high school you worked as a waitress for Penny when the seasonal help was behind schedule due to an influx of bad weather. You swore you’d never scrub another toilet ever again, god willing.

Though, this bathroom is less familiar. A lot less familiar.

He’s pushed you into the men’s bathroom.

“Jake, what are you-” he navigates around you to check the duo of stalls in the room before returning to the door; then locking it.

“You don’t get to talk.” His tone is sharp, the words nearly ricocheting off the tile of the walls. “You’re gonna listen.” No sooner than he’s said it, is he right in front of you. Hands are under your thighs, quickly and efficiently picking you up off the floor and dropping you to the middle of the countertop behind you.

“I ain’t in the fuckin’ mood to watch you make eyes at some toothpick with glasses behind the bar.” He rasps, his hands moving to your shorts again. “You want attention? You got it. But don’t come cryin’ to me when you can’t sit in that damn cockpit tomorrow without feelin’ me everywhere.”

His hands are all over you. He’s undone the button of your shorts, pushed your shirt up enough to expose your abdomen and has quickly started marking up the skin there with his lips. Nimble and skilled hands are shimmying your shorts down your body.

Your hand comes up to try to readjust your position, pushing against a soap dispenser on the wall. He is downright possessive. Frankly, you had no idea he’d even seen you at the bar. He’d been watching?

“Should I be filing a restraining order? What with how close you’re watching me and-”

Blonde hair bounces on his head when it pops up from his hickey-making efforts.

“What the fuck did I say?” His jaw clenches, ticking with restrained heat. Your stomach knots. It was barely a few words—harmless, stupid flirting. But that doesn’t seem to matter now. Not when Jake shoves his jeans down only to grab your hips like a man about to make a point.

The familiar splitting sensation floods your core, your jaw slacking as he pushes into you. The back of your head has met the mirror behind you, the cool sensation a very recognizable contrast. Jake’s grip is like a vice on your body, moving with practiced precision to work his cock into the best position, the deepest angle.

He knows when he’s reached it by the sharp cry that escapes your throat. The smirk that it earns on his face seems to help melt some of the intensity in his body. “ I don’t think I heard you, sweetheart. Could you repeat that?” Lips are right by your ear as the stroke is repeated, somehow sinking deeper this time. The cry is a little more drawn out, leaving the bulk of man pressing against you snickering. “Atta girl.” He chimes, his pace picking up a little.

After being interrupted twice before, you half expected him to be done as soon as he started. Fuck, were you wrong. His hips piston in a rhythmic pattern, leaving your body rocking up against the wall. One hand propped up against his shoulder, the other still on the dispenser. You can feel your eyes drifting shut, but Jake’s hand comes to the back of your head.

“Absolutely not. Eyes open.” You follow the command diligently, eyes locking onto his. “Hi pretty girl,” he coos, smirking as a brief second of instability crosses his face. He soon enough recovers, his pace picking up when he does. The new speed has your lower back begging to readjust.

Before you can even ask, your hand gives way, and a loud clatter comes from the wall. You glance over, only to find the soap dispenser has pulled from the wall anchors in between the tiles. Jake slows down enough to pull you to the very edge of the counter.

“What are the fucking odds?” He mutters. He can’t help the laughs that leave him, pulling out and looking at you. Your breath is heavy, trying to catch it as you slide off the counter. The damage had to be a sign that it was time to stop.

Jake Seresin doesn’t believe in signs.

That’s evident when he takes your arm, spins you to face the mirror and rests his hand on your back. Your eyes lock with his in the mirror.

“Bend.” You listen. Your forearms come down to the cold countertop, your chest flush to the granite. His hands travel down your spine, over your hips and down to your ass. Very carefully, he’s tugging ever so slightly, letting himself get a better look. “You’ve got such a pretty pussy, sweetheart.” Jake compliments while adjusting his stance. He eases back into you again, watching your expression wilfully. When he’s bottomed out, he lets his form fold over yours, letting him get as close to your ear as possible. “I bet it looks even prettier leaking my cum.”

Your jaw drops. The whispered words do laps around your mind as Jake reintroduces a proper speed. You find yourself on your tiptoes, adjusting the angle, winning yourself a treasured groan from the pilot behind you. He can’t seem to get any appreciative words out, so instead, he lets his hand slip between your legs. The minute his touch is on you again, your core feels like it’s working overtime.

The calculated strokes, the fullness of him inside you along with diligent fingers is a fatal combination. There was no fucking way you’re lasting much longer. There isn’t.

Adding insult to injury, Jake’s free hand leaves your hip, coming up to the base of your hair and grabs a fistful, helping you to arch yourself off the counter, and bear witness to a rather insightful view of the two of you. His face is focused, hair absolutely wild and intense, his skin flushed.

“You want to come baby?” The words are panted, mixing with still steady strokes - somehow. It’s impossible to properly nod your head against his grip, which forces a whine out of you.

“Yes. Jake- please- I’m not-“ The fucker moves deeper in time with the pressure on your clit. A groan skips across your breath with the quickened thrusts.

“If you come, I’m coming in you, baby girl. That what you want? You want me to come in you?” His breath paints gaps between his words, his grip still training your eyes on is in the mirror. “You wanna walk out of here with me leaking outta you?” The gruff tone of his voice has a husk to it that you’ve never heard. Not in base camp, not at Penny’s - never.

And holy fuck. You’ve never needed something so damn badly.

“Come in me. Come in me, fuck, Jake- please-please-please-“ The pressure of your chest against the counter makes breathing tough as it is, but mixed with the tightness of your core and the short intakes your lungs are pulling, the euphoria is somehow heightened ten-fold.

The full sensation is accompanied by warmth and electricity. Your peak aligns with his, a rare occurrence for the both of you. His hold on your head eases, letting you rest fully on the bathroom counter to catch your breath. His hand, still lost in your hair, mindlessly starts massaging your scalp. Fuck, if it weren’t for the smell of bathroom cleaner you would’ve believed you were up in the damn clouds right now.

He’s careful when he pulls out, and tugs your shorts back up around your waist first. Large hands grab your hips and help you stand up properly, spinning you back to face him. He buttons you back up, chuckling under his breath.

“Oh, good thing we’re in a bar cause you look absolutely tanked, right now.” Jake’s hand pushes a rogue lock of hair out of the way before tugging his own pants back up.

You feel like you’re on a funhouse floor right now. The kind where the floor wobbles up and down and makes it hard to walk straight.

Despite that, you make a weak effort to reach up and help him sort the wild mess that is his hair. You’d been leaning back on the counter for support and are surprised when you step forward that your knee buckles. Jake’s arms both to grab you, a devious chuckle leaving him. “Easy does it, let yourself get your legs under you.”

Your mouth is dry when you go to speak. “You think you’re funny?” The tilt of your head accompanies the question, before the pilot looks at the counter behind you.

“I’m known to be a comedian from time to time.” He hums, picking up the dispenser and evaluating whether or not it was possible to fix this without tipping off Penny.

“You might want to go back to clown school. Your jokes are landing about as strong as you did today.” Green eyes cut to, growing sharp as they do so. They don’t deter the smirk on your lips. If everyone else got to roast him, you felt it only fitting to tag along.

With stronger legs, you turn to the sink to wipe some water over your body. The reflection of yourself in the mirror is downright horrific. Makeup has smudged and your hair is a rat’s nest. It was going to take a second to clean up.

“I got a draft coming in and you know it.” The defense comes, dropping the soap dispenser back to the counter. “I’m not telling her this happened.” He points to the soap.

You look over your shoulder at him as you use a paper towel to wipe mascara from under your eyes. “And how exactly would I get away with telling her that the men’s soap dispenser is broken?”

The question makes Jake buffer. He attempts to provide a retort before resigning himself to his fate. “Damn it.”

“Think about this the next time you decide to get possessive in a public place.” You charm, finally feeling like you were somewhat acceptable to the public.

Jake was right, you did look drunk. But at least you didn’t look freshly fucked on top of it. Drunk accusations were one thing, sneaking off to get laid was another.

The two of you stick your head out to the hallway, gladly finding Rooster still crooning at the piano, the whole of the bar in his hands. It seemed like Hangman knew his teammates well enough if he was using them for his ulterior motives.

Each of you manages to merge your way back into the crowd without tipping anyone off.

Your drink is gone from the table Jake put it, and the rest of the team has gathered around the piano. Sneaking around bodies, you manage to come to the center of the crowd, where familiar faces have huddled up. Phoenix is sat on the piano bench next to a vibrant and loud Bradshaw, your drink in her hand.

Gratefully, you approach and she smiles at you. “Hey! I was wondering where you ran off to!” She greets, before handing you the glass. Half the liquid is gone by the time it gets to your lips. Damn Hangman.

“I had to help Penny with something in the bathroom!” You fabricate the lie as quickly as you can. The dark haired woman seems to believe you, and resumes her singing to the song you don’t seem to recognize.

A quick glance to the bar shows Jake tagging down Ryan and pointing toward the bathroom.

That fucker. You knew that the bathroom wouldn’t exactly have time to air out before the employee would go check it out. He would walk in and know exactly what had happened there. And exactly who was responsible for it.

It takes you a few more drinks before you finally end up calling it a night. Afterall, you have to work tomorrow, and if you didn’t stop now, you’d be miserable come morning. Hell, you were going to be sore one way or another, Hangman had made sure of that. Your back had been giving off a dull ache since you left the bathroom, and it would be even worse under G Force in the cockpit tomorrow.

Despite it all, you get a ride home. The house is quiet, with Amelia likely feigning sleep in favor of playing some game on her phone under the covers. You knew you could check on her and catch her in the act but… you remember sneaking your game boy under your pillow when you were supposed to be sleeping. It was a core memory for you. So who are you to break that cycle?

Once you’ve changed, and more importantly showered, you make your way to the garage. It was somewhat organized, albeit under-stocked. Granted, Penny was rarely in here. It mainly served as storage and held the important tools and things. So, there had to be some sort of super glue.

With four options at your disposal, you quickly gather your supplies and make a beeline for your bedroom. Once the door is shut, you set up a makeshift tool bench using an overturned storage bin, then carefully dump the glass pieces of the lamp on top of it.

Jigsaw puzzles were never your strong suit. You weren’t horrible at them, you always succeeded in getting the outline of the puzzle together, but filling in the middle part was easier said than done.

So it’s no surprise that you’re able to sort each panel of the lamp shade into respective piles. You’re about halfway through one panel when a tap comes from the window.

Your head is on a swivel, looking back at the pane. One Jake Seresin is on the other side.

Reluctantly, you stand up and open the window.

“What are you doing here?” You quiz him as he climbs through, the reverse of what he’d done last weekend. He straightens himself out and spots the lamp pieces on your bedroom floor.

“I know what it’s like to lose a beloved piece of furniture. I’m here for the wake.” He laments, a hand over his heart in a show of fake empathy.

With the window shut, you grunt when you get back to the floor. “I don’t remember posting an obituary anywhere.” You offer, looking back down at the progress you’ve made. It really isn’t much, but it’s better than not trying at all.

“Not to criminalize myself here, but no need for one when you witness the murder.” He hums, coming to the other side of your workbench, joining you. You scoff and look up at him.

“Witnessed? You’re the prime suspect, Seresin.” The stupid giggles that accompany the words feel somewhat like betrayal of the message.

He puts his hands up in a show of surrender. “I am innocent, your honor.” Your giggles coerce his own chuckles to join in on the fun. Careful fingers pick up a piece of the remains on the slab in your pseudo-mortuary. “This is hopeless, y’know. Cremation might be a better option.”

You look up at him from your work. “Is that your professional opinion or are you just trying to get rid of the body?”

“Strictly professional. I would never tamper with an investigation.” Jake hums and puts the piece back down, before inspecting another one.

You had to give him credit, this felt impossible. What progress you had made, was shoddily mangled back into some motif of what the pattern had been before. And your hands certainly are way more stable when you aren’t five drinks in.

Jake’s returned to watch you. Granted, this was much different than the bar, but still, he’s got careful eyes on you.

“Are you gonna tell me why you’re actually here?” You question again, sitting up to give your back a break from being hunched over.

“You didn’t answer my text. I wanted to make sure you made it back safe.” His gaze has moved to other pieces, attempting to find the next piece you need to glue down.

It’s uncharacteristic of him. He would’ve found out if you made it home tomorrow morning at work. Instead, he’s sitting in your bedroom at eleven thirty at night, playing Operation with your aunt’s heirloom lamp. Or what’s left of it.

“Got it.” You keep the reply succinct and quick. No need to elaborate on it. Instead, you find the next piece - or what you assume is the next piece - and resume your work.

A few minutes pass before you’re dropping the piece to the plastic and hissing. A jagged edge caught the side of your finger unexpectedly.

“Ow, fuck.” You shake your hand, pulling it close to try to see how bad the cut is.

Jake’s attention is caught by the sound. He extends his hand toward you. “Hey, hey, careful there might still be glass- let me see.”

Reluctantly, you let him take your hand, leaning across the storage bin, careful not to let any drying pieces catch on your shirt.

His examination doesn’t last very long. But his hands are gentle as they move. A careful finger prods gently to ensure that it wasn’t contaminated with any shards from the project below you. He seems much softer. It doesn’t last very long. His brash and relaxed demeanor returns when he lets go.

“You’re fine. Just need a bandage.” He shrugs, leaning back on his hands. You look at him and then the door.

“And risk Penny finding this?” You gesture to your glasswork. “No thanks, rather not.” Looking around the room, you’re trying to spot the box of tissues you could’ve sworn was in here earlier.

After a few seconds of thought, Jake reaches out and grabs your wrist. He pulls your hand back toward him, before ensuring your injured finger is extended, then tugging it to his mouth. His lips carefully wrap around the injured digit, cleaning the wound site. You sit in surprise, the warm sensation disappearing as quick as it appeared. He lets go, and smirks at you.

“All better, princess.”

Jake sticks around for about an hour more before you decide to give him a more dignified exit this time. It’s late after all, and you had checked Penny’s location about thirty minutes ago and knew she was home. Which meant she was upstairs and tuckered out for the night. After a night of Rooster’s entertainment, the bar had been unusually busy. It’s understandable that she’s wiped.

Despite that, your lingering conversation with Jake remains hushed as you make your way to the door. You spot his truck parked down the street, inconspicuously placed. Smart move on his part. You lean on the door frame as he exits onto the porch.

“I expect you to be on time tomorrow.” You remark, looking at him with a knowing smirk.

“Defy my commanding officer? I wouldn’t dream of it.” Jake retorts, an easy grin on his features.

Maybe something could come out of this. If he’s showing up unannounced like he did, maybe it could get there. He seemed to care. After all, the soap dispenser at the Hard Deck would still be on the wall if he didn’t. So he did. At least enough to do something about it.

“I’ll see you in the morning, Hangman.” You offer, grabbing onto the door next to you, anticipating shutting it.

“Yes ma’am. G’night, Knockout.” He gives a mock salute before starting down the steps.

The door is about halfway shut when you hear his voice. It’s muffled so you can’t make it out without opening the door further.

When you do, Jake is standing adjacent to your captain and instructor, Maverick.

#top gun maverick #top gun #jake seresin x reader #jake hangman seresin x reader #hangman x reader #jake seresin fic #jake seresin fanfiction #jake seresin #hangman fanfiction #hangman fanfic #hangman smut

135 notes · View notes

giveafike · 9 months ago

Note

ben shelton taking you on a date after flirting for months on atp/wta tour 😋

TLDR: Tennisplayer!fem reader x Ben Shelton flirting on tour until Ben acc gets a grip and asks reader out.

EDIT: part 2 here!

Word count + info: 5.1k! A LONG one but I just do not know how to stfu!! Dialogue (including comments, texts, phone calls - lots of flirting and teasing). Mentions of Carlos Alcaraz too (couldn't resist) alongisde Frances Tiafoe and Taylor Fritz.

Character Inspo: She's cheeky n playful (was listening to Promiscuous Girl - Nelly Furtado & 5 Star Hotel - Raye as I was writing this amongst many other similar songs so.... yea...behaviour like Sabrina Carpenter - yk just... fun! I didn't write any specifications but in my head I was envisioning Tyla so! But put whoever you want to cast ;)

Warnings + Content Ahead: SFW, this is sooo cute. There is a little naughty tsk tsk suggestive scene (CAR SCENE - feel free to skip) bit but nothing NSFW, teasing, playful relationship, little jabs here n there, hope its making ur feet kick! I hope it's funny too, like it makes u smile bc I had sm fun writing this !

Azzie Notes ✚: I literally gasped and giggled when I saw this prompt - I can't!!! SO, so, soooo cute I loved this prompt anon pls keep sending me more, you have this writer wrapped around your finger now. I love the idea of Ben with a WTA player, such a cute and fun dynamic!! Anyways, hope you all enjoy ;)

————————————————————————

Game, Set, Match - B.T.S

You stood on the court, the crowd's roar fading into a distant hum as you focused on the match ahead. A small smile played on your lips, and your eyes narrowed in determination. The bright sun overhead felt like a spotlight, buzzing on your skin, illuminating your every move and sharpening each muscle in your body. You were a force to be reckoned with — both polarising and captivating, your quick wit and cheeky banter stirred strong opinions. With a playful shrug and a blown kiss to the crowd, you dismissed the critics, your confidence as effortless as your serves.

Years of competing in Junior Opens had forged your resilience, and now you have been stepping into the world of professional tennis, where the stakes were higher and opponents fiercer. You had navigated this transition well over the past few years, finding your rhythm amidst the pressure, your footing steady on the path to greatness. The attention came quick too, especially with names like Nike wanting you to be an ambassador, and all sorts of products wanting you to be the face of the company, from protein powders to headphones - it was endless. The taste of victory was sweet and addictive, each match bringing you closer to the big prizes and recognition you had longed for. But just when you thought you had everything figured out, a whisper of uncertainty began to tug at the edges of your focus... not a what, but more a who?

In the past year and a half, life on tour has shifted for you in a whole different gear. Don't get it twisted, tennis remained top priority, but there was an undeniable spark that made the grind far more enjoyable and unpredictable, and that spark was no other than Ben Shelton. You first noticed him from afar, where casual nods turned into lingering glances that made the hair on your skin stand. With his raw power, boyish grin, and confidence that radiated from him, "Big Ben" was impossible to ignore. But it was during the Australian Open earlier this year that things between you really began to heat up.

Ben was anything but subtle. Once he set his sights on you, his flirting was relentless. You couldn’t help but feel flattered; it was hard not to get hooked to that buzz. After all, it wasn’t every day that a guy like him, full of charm and a teasing smile paid you so much attention. Others had thrown glances your way and offered compliments, but Ben? He stepped up his game like no one else.

Your first interaction was at a practice session where Ben sat by in the empty stands, right up by the court, arms folded and a smirk on his face. You could feel his gaze following you, his presence hard to shake off, not that you wanted to. As you finish another practice set, you heave, closing your fist to celebrate, and walk over to your bag, glancing up as his eyes light up as you catch his.

“You’re looking decent out there,” he teased, leaning over the railing, his voice laced with a challenge.

You stopped, placing a hand on your hip as you shot him a smirk, squinting up at him as you caught your breath. “Decent? It’s okay, I get it, it must be tough admitting I’m shaping up better than you.”

He laughed, stepping closer, his eyes never leaving yours. “Better? That’s a stretch, Y/N. But I’ll let you keep thinking that.”

You shrugged, a teasing grin playing on your lips. “Believe it or not, it’s happening, Ben,” you winked before slinging your bag over your shoulder and heading toward the tunnel. His chuckle followed you as you disappeared from sight.

The banter didn’t end there, though. Throughout the tournament, you could feel his eyes on you, watching during your matches. On TikTok, he left comments that had both your fans and his buzzing. One day after you posted a training video, he had commented: “You sure you’re training for tennis and not modeling?”

You grinned, tapping out a reply. “I’m great at multitasking. What’s your excuse?”

His response was instant. “Just waiting for you to finally give me a real challenge.”

Comments turned into small conversations as you passed by each other, where you’d joke and flirt like it was the most natural thing in the world. His relentless teasing was addictive.

It cooled off slightly to just a couple of liked stories and posts until Wimbledon had rolled around. By this point, the stakes felt higher. You were in top form, but off the court, the media seemed just as interested in your interactions than your matches. And it didn't end there either, it wasn't long before other peers started piqueing interest. For example, Carlos? He wasn’t subtle either.

After a long match, you were relaxing in the players’ lounge when Carlos wandered over, his smile too bright to ignore. He leaned against the table beside you, casually close.

“You were on fire out there today. Maybe we should hit the practice courts sometime,” he suggested with a casual grin.

You tilted your head, a playful glint in your eyes. “Careful, Carlos. I wouldn’t want to embarrass you in front of your fans.”

He chuckled, shaking his head. “I’ll risk it. Besides, we’re both Nike athletes, we’ve got to stick together.”

Before you could reply, Ben Shelton walked into the room, his gaze locking onto you and Carlos immediately. His smile didn’t falter, but the way he sized up the interaction was hard to miss. He strolled over, hands in his pockets, exuding calm confidence.

“Carlitos,” Ben greeted, his tone casual, though the unspoken tension hung between the lines. “What’s this? Making future practice plans?”

Carlos shot Ben a quick glance, still smiling but aware of the shift. “Just talking about tennis, you know,” he said lightly. “Gotta keep sharp.”

Ben’s eyes flicked between you and Carlos before landing squarely on you. “I’m sure you can manage without help. She’s been getting a lot of attention lately, let her breathe.”

Carlos gave you a light tap on the arm before backing off, offering a polite nod. “Catch you later, Y/N.”

You waved him off with a smile. “See you around, Carlos.”

Once Carlos was out of earshot, Ben shifted a little closer, though still maintaining that casual air. “You’ve got him interested,” he commented, his voice dropping lower.

You looked up at him through your lashes, the corner of your mouth lifting into a sly grin. “What, jealous, Shelton?”

Ben’s grin spread wider, but his tone remained easygoing. “Nah, just keeping tabs. Making sure I’m not falling behind.”

You stood up slowly, meeting his gaze as you adjusted your posture, your eyes glinting with mischief. “I don’t mix business and pleasure, Ben. We’re both Nike—gotta keep it professional.”

He chuckled, tilting his head. “So, you’re saying you’re all business?”

You turned to face him fully, taking a step closer, your voice dropping to a teasing whisper. “Oh, not always. But you’ll have to keep up to find out.”

With that, you brushed past him, leaving a lingering tension in the air. His eyes followed you as you walked away, and you could practically feel his grin growing. The banter was always playful, but now, with each exchange, the stakes seemed to rise; the unspoken understanding was clear: the game was very much on.

As the summer heat intensified, so did the buzz around Nike’s newest campaign. Your latest photoshoot was all about capturing both your athleticism and your bold personality. In a blue baby tee top with a heart-shaped keyhole and a matching skort, you struck poses that screamed confidence, captioned simply: "Ready?"

The comments rolled in quickly, and it didn’t take long before Ben made his appearance.

It didn’t take long for the comments to roll in. And as expected, Ben was quick to chime in.

benshelton:

"You call that ready? Looks more like you’re just warming up."

You chuckled, tapping your response.

Y/N.Y/LN:

"Warming up is all I need to beat you, Shelton."

benshelton:

"Beat me? Let's not get ahead of ourselves... You'd need more than a warm-up for that."

The banter was familiar, yet it always left you with a smirk. You leaned into the challenge.

Y/N.Y/LN:

"Careful, or I might just take that as a challenge."

benshelton:

"I play to win."

The playful back-and-forth didn’t go unnoticed by your fans, but it was clear this game of teasing wasn’t just for show. It must've been a week before it escalated further. You hsd landed a major Victoria’s Secret campaign, and it was unlike anything you had done before. They flew you out to Paris and guided you through the whole thing. The theme was dark and seductive—a fallen angel vibe. Lingerie, lace, and the kind of allure that left little to the imagination. You felt powerful, but also aware of how this would get attention—not just from the public, but from Ben.

You posted one of the shots late that night. The lighting was dramatic, casting soft shadows across your body as you reclined in lace.

The caption was simple yet suggestive: "Best kept secret. VS Summer 2024 Fallen Angel Collection, from me to you."

Naturally, Ben couldn’t resist commenting.

benshelton: Fallen angel, huh? Guess that means you’re trouble.

You rolled your eyes, suppressing a smile as you typed out your reply.

Y/N.Y/LN:: I thought you liked trouble.

It was no surprise when he slid into your DMs right after that.

benshelton: "I do. But you're playing a dangerous game."

You bit your lip, leaning back against your hotel bed. It was late, and the quiet Paris night settled around you, but your heart raced.

Y/N.Y/LN: " A game? Who said I’m playing? "

benshelton: "You might not be playing, but you're already winning."

You hesitated for a moment, then smirked as you typed out your next message.

Y/N.Y/LN: "And here I thought you said you could keep up."

Almost immediately, your phone buzzed again. This time, it wasn’t another text. It was a FaceTime call. You let it ring for a beat or two, your pulse quickening, before answering.

Ben’s face appeared on your screen, his hair slightly damp and his grin all too familiar. "You really know how to mess with a guy’s head, you know that?"

You smiled, pulling your covers up over you and leaning into the pillow. "What’s got you all worked up? It’s just a campaign."

He scoffed, running a hand through his hair. "Just a campaign? C’mon, you know exactly what you’re doing."

You blinked up at him, teasing. "And what is it that I am doing, Ben?"

His grin widened, but there was a glint in his eyes. "You’re pushing my limits. You're tempting me"

You chuckled, biting your lip as you let his words settle over you. "Tempting? Now that’s an accusation if I ever heard one. Maybe you're just easy to push."

Ben raised an eyebrow, viting a smile back as well. "Maybe I am. But you better be careful, or you might get burned."

The heat in his gaze made your heart skip, but you kept your tone light. "I think I can handle the heat."

Ben’s smile deepened. "That’s what I’m counting on."

You stared at each other through the screen, the tension palpable even across the distance.

Finally, you smirked, pulling the covers higher. "Goodnight, Shelton."

He sighed, but his grin didn’t falter. "Goodnight, angel. Sweet dreams."

From there, the texts seemed to pour out. Every random moment, one of you would reply to a post or find some excuse to message or call, any reason to interact. You had a secret surprise up your sleeve which you knew would practically bring Ben to his knees for you if he wasn't there already, and it had something to do with a custom dress for a red carpet.

It was a hot July night in Spain, the night draped itself around you like a warm embrace, the energy of the red carpet charity event still pulsing in the air. Your dress—a stunning, sheer, sand-colored creation—clung to your body in all the right places, slit at the thigh, your hair pinned back, accentuating your glossy, sheen skin on your neck down your shoulders. The dress shimmered under the streetlights, leaving just enough to the imagination, but not too much.

Photos were posted by your team, "behind the scene" shots and red carpet poses. The cameras had devoured every moment, the attention was full on and the night buzzed well. You reveled in the limelight and felt like a true celebrity for the night but, as the evening wore on, you began to feel drained from all the social interactions and wished you could just be alone with your phone, texting the one man who truly kept you on your toes.

Finally, as you collapsed into the backseat of your car, exhausted but exhilarated from the night's events, your phone buzzed with a missed call from Ben. The driver glanced back at you through the rearview mirror as you eagerly turned on your phone and smiled to yourself. In that moment, all you wanted was to be alone with Ben and continue this thrilling game of flirtation and surprises. You call him back after a minute passes, butterflies in your stomach fluttering away.

"Couldn't wait, could you?" you teased, giggling as you leaning back against the plush seat. His grin appeared instantly, filling your screen.

"Wait? After that post?" Ben's voice was a mixture of playful frustration and barely concealed admiration. His eyes roamed over your dimly lit image through the screen as though he could see you sitting there in that dress. "You’ve been trying to kill me with these looks for months, but this? This is the final straw."

You laughed softly, pretending to adjust the neckline of your dress as he clearly struggled to keep his composure. "I'm just doing my job. Don’t get too distracted."

Ben shook his head, a grin still lingering on his lips. "Distracted? I’ve been refreshing Instagram like a madman just to catch another angle of you. And from what I saw, I’m not the only one. You’ve got every guy on tour dropping their jaw."

You smirked, rolling your eyes playfully. "You jealous?"

"Jealous? Let’s see. Alcaraz, Ruud… even Tsitsipas liked your post. You know that guy doesn’t just like anything. But trust me, no one’s more jealous than me," Ben teased, his voice dipping lower.

You laughed softly, brushing a hand over your dress as you adjusted the fabric, playing coy. "Ben, there’s only one person I’m trying to get a rise out of—and it’s definitely not them."

His grin widened, eyes gleaming through the screen,scheming away, "Glad to hear that. So...how about you give me something a little more exclusive?Just a sneak peek. Something that’s all mine."

You crossed your legs slowly, feeling the slit in the dress reveal just a bit more skin, and you caught the driver��s eyes flicking up to the rearview mirror. He quickly cleared his throat and looked away.

You smirked, feeling a rush of boldness. "I'm in public, Shelton. What are you suggesting?"

Ben’s eyes glinted with mischief, his grin widening. "Nothing crazy. Just a little something to hold me over."

You raised an eyebrow, leaning back, the sound of the city humming outside as you sighed. You stretched your legs out across the backseat, angling your body to the side, draping yourself across the backseat for a full body shot. The dress shifted, catching the city light while still being dimly lit, showing off your figure perfectly as you lounged effortlessly. "Is this what you had in mind, Ben? A full shot?" you purred, looking up at your phone, your eyes sweet and innocent.

Ben’s jaw tightened, his chest rising as he exhaled sharply. "Damn, Y/N, I knew you'd look good, but this…" He let out a low whistle, leaning closer to the screen, his eyes glinting and a blush creeping up all over. "You’re not playing fair."

You smirked, enjoying the power shift. "Fair? You asked for it, Shelton."

He laughed, but it was strained, the heat in his voice unmistakable. "Yeah, but you know how to take it to another level. Now I'm the one who's going to be distracted all night." His tone softened, a teasing edge returning. "Just one more reason for me to fly out, don't you think?"

"One more reason?" you echoed, playing with the neckline of your dress, a smile teasing your lips. "I think I’ve given you more than enough."

Ben groaned softly, running a hand through his hair, clearly captivated.

" Y/N, you don’t know what I’d do if I was there right now."

Your heart skipped a beat. "Yeah? What would you do?"

"I’d start with that dress," Ben murmured, his eyes never leaving yours through the screen. "Slowly. You know, just enough to tease. Then—"

The driver cleared his throat, and you bit back a laugh. Ben noticed, his eyes narrowing playfully. "Caught?"

"Almost," you whispered, your pulse quickening as you adjusted in your seat, the thrill of being on the edge of danger sending a shiver down your spine. "You’re getting me into trouble."

"Ben’s gaze softened, though his grin stayed. "Me? You’re the one that looks like that." He paused, his voice low and rough. "God, if I could just be there…"

"Careful," you warned, grinning as you looked at him through half-lidded eyes. "You might lose yourself completely."

Ben’s gaze darkened, and his voice dropped even lower. "Maybe I’m okay with losing it when it comes to you."

You bit your lip, heart racing as you shifted in your seat. The driver’s eyes flicked up to the mirror again, and you quickly glanced away, fighting the blush creeping up your neck. “You’re dangerous, Shelton. Keep talking like that, and I might have to mute you.”

“Go ahead. Mute me,” he dared, his voice thick with challenge. “But I bet you won’t.”

You smiled, a small, teasing hum escaping your lips. “Oh, you think I’m scared?”

“I think you like teasing me as much as I like it.” His voice was gravelly now, every word laced with want.

Your breath caught, eyes wide a bit before you were about to respond when the car pulled up to the hotel. The driver got out quickly, opening the door for you. You stepped out, feeling the cool night air wash over your skin as you walked through the lobby, Ben still watching intently through the screen. You could feel his gaze on you as you made your way to the elevator, the tension between you buzzing like electricity.

Once in your room, you tossed your bag onto the bed and sank down onto the mattress. "Alright," you breathed, "I’m back in my room."

Ben’s voice came through the phone, teasing yet low with interest. "So… how’s that dress treating you?"

You grinned at his not-so-subtle curiosity. "It’s treating me well so far," you teased, running a hand over the fabric. You stood up, positioning yourself in front of the mirror.

Slowly, deliberately, you reached behind you to the zipper. "I’ll give you a little preview."

You lowered it just enough for the strapless dress to reveal a sliver of your smooth back, keeping the front of the dress held firmly in place with your other hand. The exposed skin was just enough to tease.

You turned back slightly, catching his reaction through the screen, his eyes locked on you. "You wanted to see, right?" you whispered, mischief clear in your voice.

Ben let out a breathy laugh, clearly amused. "You really know how to keep a guy on edge."

You shot him a playful look over your shoulder, still holding the dress in place. "It’s all about the suspense. You should know that by now."

Ben's gaze flickered, his tone a bit softer. "You’re making it hard to focus."

With a smirk, you turned to face him, still holding the dress tight. "Goodnight, Shelton."

Before he could say another word, you ended the call, tossing your phone onto the bed, feeling satisfied. You knew he wouldn’t forget that little moment anytime soon.

By the time August had rolled around, the tension between you and Ben was impossible to ignore. Months of teasing, playful banter, and phone calls had built into something electric, something undeniable. Now, you were both in New York for the U.S. Open. The final Slam of the year where you'd cross paths for the year, and maybe the final chance for one of you to make a move.

After winning your third-round match, you made your way through the tunnel, your heart still racing from the adrenaline of your win. The buzz of the crowd still rang in your ears, but as you walked toward the tunnel, you heard familiar voices ahead.

Ben, along with Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe, stood laughing and talking just a few feet ahead. Their voices echoed in the corridor, their banter unmistakable.

“Bro, it’s embarrassing now,” Frances teased. “You’ve gotta ask her out. She’s into you, we all know it.”

Ben groaned, looking exasperated, dragging his hand over his face. “It’s not that easy. I don’t want to screw it up.”

Taylor chuckled. “Screw it up? Dude, she’s been giving you eyes all week. Just make the move.”

Frances nudged him. “It’s not like she’s hiding it either. The way she teases you, she's a green light.”

You smirked, slowing your pace as you approached. They didn’t notice you yet, too absorbed in their teasing.

Ben sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “I just… I don’t know.”

“They’re right,” you chimed in, finally stepping into view, as you walked by, wiping sweat off your brow, smirking. Their heads snapped toward you, startled. “Take their advice, Benny. It’s 'bout time you did something.”

Ben’s eyes widened as you walked past, your tone light but with an edge of challenge. His friends burst into laughter, both of them slapping Ben on the back, shoving him back and forth.

Frances grinned. “See? Even she's asking you to make a move, man.”

Ben shot him a look, but his gaze lingered on you as you disappeared into the locker room.

Later, after a shower and a change of clothes, you made your way back into the lounge, feeling refreshed but still riding the high of the match. You didn’t expect to run into Ben waiting for you, leaning casually against the wall with his hands in his pockets.

You raised an eyebrow, a slow smirk tugging at your lips. “Stalking me now?”

He pushed off the wall, taking a step toward you, his expression shifting from playful to serious. “No, what-uh, but I... I wanted to catch you before you left.”

“Oh?” You crossed your arms, looking up at him. “What’s up?”

Ben took a breath, looking almost nervous. “About what you said earlier... maybe they’re right. Maybe I have been holding back.”

You cocked your head, feeling your heart quicken at his sudden change in tone. “And?”

“And I think I’m done waiting,” he said, his eyes locking with yours. “Would you want to go out with me? Just us. Dinner, maybe?”

For a moment, the world seemed to be still. Ben, usually so confident and playful, stood before you with a vulnerability that tugged at your heart.

You let the moment hang, letting him sweat just a little before your lips curled into a teasing smile. “About time you asked, Ben.”

His tense shoulders dropped, a grin spreading across his face. “So, is that a yes?”

You let out a small giggle, your voice soft but playful. “Yeah, it’s a yes. Better come like a gentleman though.”

That night, you stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the sweet, soft dress you’d picked out. It was a pale pink dress, fitted at the top with a flowing skirt that flattered your figure perfectly. The neckline was delicate, with thin straps that accentuated your shoulders, and the soft fabric wrapped your waist before cascading down to just above your knees. The dress was sweet and soft, but still undeniably you—playful with a touch of elegance.

You headed down to the hotel lobby, taking a seat as you crossed one leg over the other, checking your socials. At 7pm on the dot, Ben walks in, running a hand through his curls before he sets eyes on you.

Ben stood there in a crisp white button-down shirt, the sleeves slightly rolled up to reveal his strong forearms, accentuating his strong shoulders, paired with dark, well-tailored pants. His curls were just tousled enough to seem like he hadn’t spent hours fixing it, but of course, he had. He looked handsome—maybe even a little nervous.

“You look stunning,” he said, his voice low as his eyes took you in.

You smiled, a soft blush warming your cheeks, as you stood up. “You don’t look so bad yourself.”

He offered you his arm, and you linked yours through his, your fingers brushing over the firm muscles of his bicep as you stepped out into the lobby. There was a quiet buzz between you, the usual playfulness replaced with something softer, more tender.

As you walked to the car, Ben opened the passenger door for you, giving you a gentle smile as you slipped inside. Before he could close the door, you leaned over, reaching for the driver’s side door and popping it open for him.

He chuckled, shaking his head as he got in. “You always keep me on my toes, don’t you?”

You grinned, sitting back in your seat, and pulling your seatbelt over. “Always.”

The ride to the restaurant was comfortable, a soft hum playing through the speakers, "Love is Only a Feeling" by Joey BadA$$, making you smile a bit at his subtle but purposeful details. As the city lights flickered by outside, you felt a sense of calm settle over you. Every so often, your hand would brush against his on the center console until finally, you slipped your fingers into his, holding his hand gently as he drove.

Ben glanced at you, his thumb brushing lightly over the back of your hand. “You seem... different tonight,” he said, his voice soft, almost as if he were trying to figure out the shift in your usual dynamic.

You smiled as you gazed at him. “Different how?”

He hesitated, his grip on your hand tightening just a little. “I don’t know. Less playful. More...”

“Serious?” you finished for him.

He nodded, giving you a small, sheepish grin. “Yeah. I like it, though.”

You let out a soft laugh, leaning your head against the seat. “It’s just nice to finally be doing this.”

When you arrived at the restaurant, a small, candlelit Italian place tucked away in the quieter part of the city, Ben quickly got out and hurried around to open your door again. This time, when you stepped out, you smiled up at him, letting him take your hand. Before you could fully stand, he bent down, bringing your hand to his lips and placing a gentle kiss on your knuckles.

Your heart fluttered at the gesture, the sweetness of it catching you off guard. “Such a gentleman,” you teased, though your voice was softer than usual.

Ben smirked, though there was a hint of nervousness in his eyes. “I’m trying.”

Inside, the restaurant was intimate, with small tables with flickering candles, and soft jazz music playing in the background. Ben led you to a corner table, pulling out your chair before taking his seat across from you. The low hum of other diners provided a cozy backdrop as the two of you settled in.

As you both browsed the menu, you found yourself resting your chin in your hand, watching Ben with a soft smile. He glanced up and caught you staring, a blush creeping up his neck. “What?” he asked, his voice a little breathless.

“Nothing,” you said, your lips curling into a grin. “Just... enjoying this.”

Ben reached across the table, his hand finding yours again. “Me too.”

Dinner was perfect. The pasta was rich, the wine smooth, but what made the evening unforgettable was how easy everything felt between you. Conversation flowed naturally, deeper than it ever had before. You talked about travel plans and places you both dreamed of visiting and shared stories about family traditions—like how your grandmother used to insist on making a very experimental desserts during the holidays, no matter how disastrous it turned out every year.

At one point, you glanced out the window, taking in the soft glow of the city lights before turning back to Ben. “What about you? If you could be anywhere right now… where would it be?”

Ben didn’t hesitate, his eyes locked on yours. “Honestly? Right here. With you.”

You felt warmth rise to your cheeks, your heart skipping at the simplicity of his words. He wasn’t trying to impress you, just telling the truth, and somehow, that made it even more meaningful. You reached across the table again, slipping your hand into his. His fingers intertwined with yours, the gesture now familiar, yet it sent a shiver through you all the same.

“I’m glad you asked me to dinner,” you said quietly, the weight of the night settling around you both.

Ben smiled, his thumb brushing lightly over the back of your hand. “I’m glad you said yes.”

As the night wound down, Ben drove you back to the hotel. The city outside passed by in a blur of lights, but inside the car, everything felt still and comfortable. You held his hand the entire way, feeling the warmth and quiet reassurance of his touch.

When the car pulled up to your hotel, Ben quickly got out, making his way to your side to open the door. You stepped out, and this time, you didn’t let go of his hand. Instead, you turned to him, standing close in the cool night air.

“Thank you for tonight,” you whispered softly, looking up through your lashes.

Ben’s smile was gentle, his eyes warm as they met yours. “Anytime. Thank you for being here, with me.”

Your eyes crinkled as you smiled before you leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek that lingered for a moment. His skin was warm, and you felt him inhale sharply at the unexpected touch. When you pulled back, your heart was racing, but you smiled up at him, feeling the lingering heat between you.

“Goodnight, Ben,” you said, your voice barely above a whisper.

His gaze lingered on you, and though he smiled, there was a quiet intensity in his eyes. “Goodnight, Y/N.”

You gave his hand one last squeeze before letting go, making your way into the hotel with a soft smile on your lips. You glanced back one last time to see him leaning against his car, a playful wave and your lipstick still visible on his cheek. For once, you weren’t in full control, but somehow, that felt right.

In a world dominated by meticulous moves, it was these quiet moments that grounded you. Now, with someone like Ben by your side, every win, every loss, and every day on the court held more meaning.

Sometimes, the most important victories happened off the court.

#benshelton #ben shelton #ben shelton x reader #thisissolongsorrynotsorry #ILOVEDTHISPROMPT

332 notes · View notes

manwiththemagic · 9 months ago

Text

The writers of s11 were cowards. If IIIIIIIIIII was in charge I'd made Lucifer's weird obsession with Sam show up more. Like the writers have very obviously included it and yet when Lucifer is processing the same vessel as cas, and therefore pretending to be cas, he just fucks off and tortures Crowley with fucked up bdsm pet play.

Like the few times casifer and Sam interacted were GOLD. because Sam sees it as his best friend cas, and Lucifer (who keeps talking about Sam like they're toxic ex's) is pretending to be him!! Although not to well. Like his freaky smirk when sending Dean into the past and coming back to harass Sam? Dude lives off of sadistic pleasure.

The way he full on LAUGHS when Sam says he trusts him bc Sam thinks it's cas?? Like gold!?!? Don't know why the writers didn't do more with that.

Also why not do more with the 'lucifer sent Sam visions to get him down to hell'. Like Lucifer is Obsessed w/ sam because that body/vessel is "supposed to be" his. And yet after revealing himself he doesn't try and convince Sam anymore?

He's just given up? Like nah man I don't believe that. I feel like he woulda fucked with Sam more in cas' body. And like it woulda been a way better not-romance-romance plot then whatever the fuck Dean and Amara were..

Like that came outta no where... I mean I get it.. but ew?? We saw her grow up, and maybe id argue "well there were two versions of her!! One physical on earth, the other her actual form and memories as a celestial being!!" BUT NO. SHE CALLS CROWLEY UNCLE CROWLEY.

cause he like raised her for a day or wtv..

Idk s11 is better than s10. Like the episode from baby's prospective?? PEAK CINEMAAAA!! also not that I dislike s11, no I quite love it, I just wish the dean plots were more fleshed out, and that it was more "Dean and Sam vs the world!!" Then Dean vs Sam yk??

Like where's my dynamic duo??

That's part of why I didn't like s10. Like no I loved the IDEA of Mark of Cain dean, and demon dean was hilarious (although I HATE him) but it was just Dean vs Sam, Dean vs cas, Dean vs the world. And idk I liked the idea, cause this time it was sam doing everything to save Dean, but man I just didn't like the fighting..

Also s11 had a mention of TMNT, S10 did not so... points!!

S1 and 2 of spn were peak ofc, and s3 was good but not really memorable for me?? Idk I'll go back and rewatch once I finish the series (just finished s11)

S4 and 5 were also really good, we got Castiel who is peak, blood junkie Sam, which was one of my favorite plots!! And of course a lot more bobby. Rest in peace king!

And unlike some I loveeeed s6-7 like.. the soulless plot, and death? Dean dealing with soulless sam?? Chefs kiss I mean mwah. Then Sam tweaking because of hallucinations. NOT TO MENTION GODSTIEL?? loved him sm stg.

8-9-10 is where it kinda fell off. I mean idk the leviathans?? Weak. Hated them ngl. Idk if they were s7 but either way.. mid. I didn't like purgatory bc no way Sam would do that?? But I did like how it developed deans character..

I don't remember what happened in what season but I lovedddd kevin, hated metatron (but in the "it's because he's well done" kinda way), the tablets were aight, Mark of Cain was uh... something.. (I hate demon dean but he was peak..)

So like idk.. show is peak though, I'm just at that point in the hyperfixtion where it's like "BUT I COULD DO IT BETTER!!" ykwim?? NVM I'm sick with a fever, supernatural is all I have going for me man.

183 notes · View notes

nqueso-lies · 3 months ago

Note

https://www.tumblr.com/nquesoxlies/780567152604463104/let-people-be-upset-about-their-favorite?source=share

tbh there's also something a loooot of ppl need to learn calling "setting realistic expectations." i personally wouldn't want eddie back without an on-screen conversation between him and CHRIS about what CHRIS wants, otherwise his entire plot in texas would feel kinda moot with a throwaway "yeah chris is fine with coming back to LA :)" since this plot was big enough for eddie to drop everything to go finally make things right with his son. i didn't expect for him to show up for the two-parter. meanwhile, everyone i saw who was momentarily disappointed bc no tommy was like "ah well, we know we're almost definitely getting him next episode bc of leaks" and went on to enjoy the episode as a whole

its genuinely fine to go "aw no eddie? :(" its Not fine to review bomb an episode and repeatedly bitch about the director not putting ur favorite man in the episode when it makes 0 sense for him to come back so quickly and without showing us that he IS still working on being a better dad to chris. hell, go write fanfic about it where eddie IS back instead of review bombing!!! that's probably a way more fun use of time than review bombing!!!

honestly, these fans make me dislike eddie more and more ngl which isn't even the actor or the writers faults at all. if he leaves the show then it's not going to impact me that much unless his ending is fully unsatisfying, and that'll be more of a "cmon, writers, you knew this was where this was going, do better." i have never watched the show only for eddie like these people have. came into the show expecting to love madney + henren and ended up very emotionally invested in bathena while enjoying buck and eddie as well. i'm on the same page as a lot of ppl who have been here longer than i have been: we love the entire show rather than just eddie. honestly, i think half of these people don't even like buck. i already know most of them don't give a shit about the rest of the show from insulting ravi over him distracting buck with tommy to turning josh into the "number 1 b*ddie cheerleader" to ignoring henren unless they can use them as a "gotcha!!! you don't actually care about queer rep!!!" like.

@ BoBs: do YOU? because every time there's queer rep that threatens ur fanon ship, u actively get homophobic about it down to, what, 600? of you PROUDLY admitting you would commit a hate crime to make your stupid ship canon--including both real men and fictional characters like josh and tommy in your "i'd hate crime for them teehee!" bullshit.

idk queso its just wild to me how often i also see the "eddie diaz pretty pretty princess who wants to paint his nails!!!" like. painting ur nails isnt gendered, the fuck? BoBs see anyone gender non-conforming and goes "wow, inherent sign of queerness, i am very smart :)" while feeding directly into toxic masculinity with the idea that if you don't adhere strictly to what's deemed masculine, then clearly you're queer. even if you say you're straight and know you're attracted to women and only women, you're gay because you (checks notes) have emotions and cry over your friends and did ballroom dancing when you were younger.

anyway if im being petty then i kinda hope that eddie leaves to focus fully on chris and making a life for the two of them in el paso and ravi takes his place on the team so that we get indian rep permanently on the show for a bit! i think he could bring some new life into the team (regardless of whether the show goes on for one season or more) and it'd be nice to see buck in a mentor position to him. plus i'd love to see his dynamic with the rest of the team <3 i am still available to play his love interest who is there for a single episode before being relegated to one-off mentions <3 /hj

Yes to alllllll of this, Annie!!!

What's ironic to me, based on something you mentioned, is the nail painting. They want sooooo hard for RG to actually be gay yet an actor who does paint his nails (for self-harm reasons) they call a slur and tell him to die.

Like???? Wtf are we doing???

(I know your ask is about the characters but that shit will always rub me the wrong way about Ryan stans)

#anonymous #911 abc #911 discourse #nquesu wanna block

59 notes · View notes

tinseltina · 4 months ago

Text

was gonna make something for a zine with this as my my composition and theme but lost steam and i didn't like the pose or anything so i gave up and did something else.

maybe one day i'll come back to this (more design ideas and yapping under the cut)

and is it orientalist and low hanging fruit of a prompt? yes. this is also part of why i lost steam. i ended up looking up more info on djinn mythology and trying to figure out what country the scalding sands is trying to imitate and where to really take insp for the designs from.

i never did finish that research i just go distracted and moved on. i was thinking of morocco for scalding sands bc rivers, but other folks have their own headcanons for it too.

there are details i love tho, like the snake crown and the gem meant to look like the big red gem abu tries to take in the cave of wonders. jamil's lamp was originally just going to look like the lamp from the aladdin movie but then i had more of a vibe to add more decoration and including more snake theming. and i didnt quite hit the right design i was imagining but, like the said the angle and posing in this piece were frustrating me so nothing was satisfying and i didnt want to put in more effort.

if i ever finished this i would just redo it entirely. but i'm still working on foreshortening and really dynamic angles for characters, and that was the initial idea and i just kept not being able to get it down on paper.

#mine #my art #twst #twisted wonderland #kalim #jamil #kalim al asim #jamil viper #fanart

59 notes · View notes

altschmerzes · 3 months ago

Note

gav how do you develop the courage to boldly write about platonic cuddling and hand holding and hugging and so on in a world that is so romance oriented. I want to write about a friend’s character getting held and loved by all of their friends not just their romantic interest but I’m so afraid of people reading it romantically when it’s not…

OH HO HO A THING I AM VERY PASSIONATE ABOUT

okay we're gonna have a gav's guide to writing about platonic physical intimacy in this hell world and not getting too psyched out to stick the landing in the process

right up top, the unfortunate answer is there is no magic bullet. i am constantly haunted by the awareness that people are going to forcibly redefine the things i have written about as romantic no matter what i do, and this is an awareness that, depending on the day, i find anything from annoying to incredibly painful and upsetting. but given that i am a romance repulsed aromantic who finds immense value and meaning in writing about intimacy, especially physical and emotional intimacy, i have learned to do so without letting that awareness ruin it for me or keep me from doing what's important to me.

i used to censor myself a lot more, and i am still unlearning that, as well as unlearning what ive termed 'shadowboxing romance' in my writing (i.e. writing about platonic relationships and intimacy in a way as to specifically deny or combat the belief that they are romantic rather than just letting them exist in their own right. i am trying to stop doing that. i refuse to give romance any quarter in my writing, including by allowing the idea to carry water that a relationship that is intimate/caring/committed/devoted/intense/etc is romantic until proven otherwise). it's a process and that process is continuing! but i think i've found some equilibrium in some ways.

so! some specific pieces of advice/things that work for or help me:

honestly this is gonna be kind of insulting to say probably but literally just write what you want. it's a lot harder than it sounds. there's a reason your instincts and your familiarity with the characters/dynamics you're writing and the story you're telling are saying you want x to happen, so maybe just. let x happen? as an example i had a scene in a fic i was working on where character A tripped and character B caught them before they could fall. my first instinct was to have a detail where A's clothing slipped a bit in the process and B brushed their bare skin and this was Significant. but bc the relationship is platonic i didn't want it to seem weird and like i was implying something or hinting at something with that. so i almost took it out, rewrote the detail as B's thumb getting caught in a twist of A's shirt. but i didn't. because a lot of that story is specifically ABOUT intimacy and touch and skin contact and navigating that in the context of a platonic (in this case burgeoning queerplatonic) relationship. so that first instinct was right, i just had to like. talk myself back into it after initially balking.

remind yourself that platonic relationships are not blank slates onto which romance is invited to be projected, even though fandom treats them that way. platonic relationships are just as intentional and fully realized and specific and worthwhile in their depiction as romantic relationships are, and they get to take up that space too.

remember that if people get weird about it, that is a them problem. they are the ones making it weird. if they decide to force romance into a relationship that is not indicated that way, that's on them, and you can't be blamed for it.

i often include a specific disclaimer about a dynamic i am particularly worried about, or whenever this anxiety gets too strong for me and starts upsetting me. i will put in the beginning notes of a fic 'as a reminder this is a gen fic/my depiction of the relationship between A and B is platonic! please respect that' or something along those lines. if someone ignores that, i block without hesitation, or i respond with 'this is a weird thing to say to someone who made it very clear this is a gen fic/platonic relationship'. i have spent a lot of time trying to teach myself that i get to have boundaries about this. but it is weird and shitty for people to make ship commentary on non-ship fanwork and i wish that was a more widely understood/accepted thing.

remember, above all, that this is important to you for one reason or another, and also it's probably important to other people too. one of the things that gives me the most courage and determination in writing about things the way that i do, especially relationships, is the number of times people have expressed to me that this is meaningful to them, too. that the way i write about relationships, intimacy, affection, connection, longing, touch, etc, is very valuable and important and even healing for them to see in a platonic context. i won't lie, people have said some weird shit to me about the way i write. they have gotten aggressive and mean and arophobic etc at me. that's one of the tough things about this. i have ocd but, unlike an anon who yelled at me about this the other day would have you believe, it's not solely mental illness that has me really anxious about this. people do say and do the shit i'm afraid of and wanting to avoid when i write about platonic intimacy. but that is far, far outweighed by the people who have been lovely and extremely moved by what i've written, and that matters so much more to me.

i wish you and anyone else who wants to do this all the best!! i am always working on making myself more comfortable writing the way that i do about platonic relationships because it's important to me, and i refuse to let a combination of like... trauma and ocd and The World And Fandom Being How It Is take that from me. know that i'm cheering you on!!

#gav gab #gav answers #alounuitte #writing

41 notes · View notes

yukinss · 1 year ago

Text

the moon, the sun, and the earth | op81, ls2

pairing: oscar piastri x fem!driver! reader (unrequited) ... logan sargeant x fem!driver! reader (mentioned) summary: the moon relies on the sun to shine, but the sun doesn't care about the moon ... it's too focused on the earth. note: mainly focused on oscar, although logan is mentioned heavily throughout the blurb/fic, whichever you wanna call i. it's a really shitty ending bc idk how to end things properly, and it’s kinda opened ended, soooo smirking cat emoji, sun side eye emoji. note 2: don’t ask about the logistics of the reader (you) being at aston martin … i just wanted to include lance in some way shape or form, smiling cat emoji.

you, oscar, and logan ... that's how it's always been. from karting to your time in the f1 academy, it had always been you three. it was only a given that the three of you would've ended up as formula 1 drivers the same year. you at aston martin, oscar at mclaren, and logan at williams.

being on different teams didn't stop you guys from being close, if anything it only made you three closer ... well it made you and logan closer, as oscar was usually pulled away to attend team meetings and interviews to discuss the season.

throughout the 2023 season, yours and logan's relationship had grown into something more than just childhood friends. it wasn't until the austrian grand prix when the two of you had made it official. many fans and other members of the grid were over the moon to see the two of you together.

"it was only amount of time the two of you got together!" both yours and logan's teammates had said when they congratulated the two of you.

the dynamic of the 2023 rookies had shifted after that. no one really knew why, no one other than oscar of course. he had always known you and logan had feelings for each other for a while now, but had danced around the idea of the both of you actually getting together. he had only hoped that the two of you would've continued to dance around the idea ... or even just drop it. oscar had hoped that you would've dropped the idea of ever being with logan.

for 3 years, oscar thought his relationship with you was strictly platonic. yet somewhere along the way, you had become his sun. although, you were too caught up on your feelings for logan to have know about oscar's feelings for you.

oscar had become the moon to your sun, while logan had become the earth. oscar relied on you, everything he did was dedicated to you in some way ... but you didn't care for oscar, not in the same way you cared for logan.

it's like that saying, the moon relies on the sun to shine, but the sun doesn't care about the moon ... it's too focused on the earth.

#🕊�� ₊ sweet nothings #logan sargeant x reader #logan sargeant x you #logan sargeant imagine #oscar piastri x reader #oscar piastri x you #oscar piastri imagine #f1 grid x reader #f1 imagine

163 notes · View notes

khaoala · 5 months ago

Note

Hi, sorry for making my problem your problem, but I'm feeling a little low for a variety of reasons, including the fact that, despite my best blocking skills, I still haven't been able to fully avoid the ppl throwing shade at KB/FK's impact (or lack thereof according to them) in THK (seriously, feels like I'm unwillingly stuck in an endless game of whac-a-mole just with bad takes/poor fandom etiquette!). So I thought I'd try and take my mind off it by sending you an extremely self-indulgent ask! As an FK fan extraordinaire (and one of my fave giffers btw), what are your:

favourite scenes from each of their shows?

favourite FK moments from real life?

hopes and dreams for THK finale?

hopes and dreams for the Holy Grail of FK shows? E.g. ideal plot or genre, relationship dynamic, supporting cast, director, etc.

And now for the harder questions! Your mission, should you choose to accept, is to convert an unbeliever into an FK stan (of them as both separate actors and as a pairing). You can only pick ONE scene from their entire repertoire for each category. Go!

best acting from First

best acting from Khao

best acting from FK as a pairing

best demonstration of FK's chemistry

best kiss (aesthetics+characterisation+emotion+context+whatever other criteria you choose!)

I eagerly await your answers! (but obvs you're under no obligation to respond - tbh, even just forming the ask has helped lighten my mood! Feel free to ignore or to throw it over to someone else if you'd rather, or even if there's anyone else you think would be interested in contributing - I just enjoy hearing other ppl's 'FK as Acteurs' highlights! Someone gushing about my faves = instant serotonin boost!)

In return (and as tribute to your new handle), I offer you this, imo, grossly overlooked example of Khao pulling his signature Khaoala move: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GhSzVQvX0AAm7mh?format=jpg&name=900x900 ...😉

i'm sorry about that, anon. curating your online bubble can be a lot of work and it's not always 100% and i'm sorry you're getting stressed bc of that. i'm not sure if you're going to the tags on either twitter or tumblr, but i'd recommend you stay away of those. twitter is a bit more difficult, but once you get your little bubble things get better but for tumblr, if you're just looking for pretty edits like the ones fandom provides, i'd recommend checking only the thkedit tag. it's a lot better than dealing with the trolls with poor fandom etiquette. i hope you find a space you feel more comfortable and welcomed, anon, i know i say this often, but fandom spaces are supposed to give you relief and not headaches.

you didn't even ask for advice and i'm already rambling, i'm so sorry, but to your questions which were such a delight to receive (you have no idea how happy i felt for being called a fk fan extraordinaire and to know i'm one of your favorite giffers. i love to know people like the things i do, it does wonders to my self-esteem).

ATTENTION!

this is a nearly 2000 word-vomit reply where i talk in length about my favorite topic of the last couple of years, firstkhaotung. i'm sorry for not being able to be concise. pls have the picture the anon sent as their favorite khaoala moment which i must agree, is extremely underrated, as a form of apology.

1.favourite scenes from each of their shows? (i'll just pick the ones they were paired together bc you know, there's a lot)

the eclipse - akkayan's first kiss in akk's room. that scene is so important to them, and also to me. the way ayan was so careful with akk, he took his time, gave akk room to assess the situation, back away if he wanted to. how softly he spoke to akk and how scared akk was of all of that. that scene was beautiful beautiful beautiful and so well acted, too.

moonlight chicken - listen, i know they only have three scenes, but they are all very important to me, alright? with that being said, the scene in alan's office. alan is smiling like gaipa hung the stars in the sky with his bare hands and it's full sunshine mode, and first's smile is so beautiful, and he's flirty, gaipa is oblivious, it's just so sweet. they are healing and that's amazing.

only friends - the fight in sand's apartment. though the therapy scene is just as amazing, i feel like the apartment fight has so much impact. the way sand was collected the whole time and only allowed himself to break down once ray was out of earshot. and how ray was so distraught by the idea of the one person he thought he could trust betraying him, it was awful. it makes me teary to this day.

the heart killers - the scene at the beach in ep. 8. thank you first for adding a whole monologue to this scene. i can totally understand why that's his favorite. the tiredness, the desolation, they are both so exhausted and bison doesn't want to fight anymore and he's angry, but he loves kant, and kant doesn't want to lie to bison and wants him to know that. it's beautifully acted. i stayed on that scene for days. it made my heart hurt so good.

2. favourite FK moments from real life?

i have too many that i suddenly forgot as soon as i read this question, so at some point i might even add to this when i remember. but the one i can think about right now was when they were on arm's share for first's birthday and khaotung's wish for first in the upcoming year was: "as you grow, you might find more people, but if you do, let them go, stay only with me instead."

3. hopes and dreams for THK finale?

i do hope for a wedding. i didn't want a double wedding bc i find them so tacky, but with the recent talks with fadelstyle + style's dad, that might be where they are going IF they are even going to have one. as you might have noticed, i'm not stressed about the finale. i think they'll have time enough to access the most urgent matters (gay sex in prison) and with fadelbison spending their time locked up, they'll have all the room to live normal lives like they wished. bison talked about assassins not being able to have a home, family and a lover so i hope they get all of that and more.

4. hopes and dreams for the Holy Grail of FK shows? E.g. ideal plot or genre, relationship dynamic, supporting cast, director, etc.

oh man, i'd love for them to work with the women in gmm, first of all. and i know i had a talk about gl people hating men (with reason in some cases) but gmm loves to experiment with them, so pls let them act with namtanfilm (these four in a show would make my brain stupid happy). sarah pitched an idea that was very similar to the one i had in my head, though hers have first and film as siblings, but the premise would be the same. one trying to help the other approach their crushes. it's silly, slice of life, light comedy stuff which i know they can pull off just as well as the heavy drama stuff.

i'd also love to see them in a show a la sammon with the thriller and investigation vibes. but i'm no fanfic writer and i'm happy with most plots i'm given and if it's them, i know it'll be well-acted.

as for directors, p'aof is the pick for most bl stans, and i agree, i hope they get the chance to work with him again, and have fk as the mains this time. i'd love to see them work with p'nuchy as well, from not me, or the director of be my favorite and who's going to direct joongdunk's and skynani's shows this year. he's amazing, i loved what he did with be my favorite, and while i'm not sure if i'll tune in for either of these new shows, i know he'll do great.

(i love that you deemed this first questions as easy and these one as harder, because let me tell you, i had a hard time with both sets!

1.best acting from First

i can only talk about what i've seen, and despite hearing all the praises for his portrayal of a girl stuck in boy's body in the shipper, i didn't have the guts to watch it yet. i was debating between the "break-up" scene in front of yolo and this one, but i need to praise first as akk. while gmm was going their reprise of the eclipse last year, i took that chance to rewatch the show as well, and i can't believe first didn't get a nomination for his portrayal of akk. he's spectacular in his scenes as this hard-working, perfectionist, in-the-closet, slightly homicidal and self-destructive student prefect. the one scene that makes me stop for like five minutes every time is the one where thua exposes him as the curse and he cries in the stairs. and i know there are people who aren't fan of scenes that are heavy on the dramatics, but that scene alone is so sad and first manages to express that masterfully bc it's terrifying yes, but it also feels cathartic in a way bc there's no weight of that lie on him anymore, so he cries ans sobs and leans on aye for support. idk, it just stuck with me for such a long time.

2. best acting from Khao

ray was khao's best performance in my opinion, and while i agree with everyone who mentions his therapist scene (which was a masterpiece honestly, no one and i mean no one would be able to deliver that one other than him the way he did), i'll go with mew's birthday party. i remember watching the bts of that scene and force was speechless and said that was his favorite scene they had shot until then, and man, there's a reason for that. he ate that up! the pure anger and control of the scene he had. the room was full of people but everyone's eyes were on him, and ray was terrifying in that one. that's what i mean when i say khaotung might be shorter than most of his co-stars but he knows when to use his presence to appear actually menacing. ray on mew's birthday party was scary.

3. best acting from FK as a pairing

you said i have to convince a non believer to stan fk, so i'll use the scene where they reconcile in only friends, ep. 10, if i'm not mistaken bc when you have a scene that was a page or two long, and direction shortened shortened shortened it until it was only an "i'm sorry" and they acted so well that it was convincing enough to make you, the audience, fully believe in the sincerity of the apology and the love and regret that laced their hug, that's a skill. they acted their asses off in that scene and the only line of dialogue was an apology.

4. best demonstration of FK's chemistry

okay so for this one, i'll say every time they showed casual intimacy. i feel like it's so easy for them to ignore casual intimacy in shows, but especially as kantbison, fk showed so much of their chemistry in the little touches. they are a very physical couple and they are comfortable being in each other's embrace and it's beautiful to see that being portrayed. holding hands, worshiping each other's bodies, sniffing their hair, kissing their knuckles, just feeling each other close, that's when you felt they are actually each other's person, they are actually so into each other that even crawling under each other's skin wouldn't be enough.

5. best kiss (aesthetics + characterisation + emotion + context + whatever other criteria you choose!)

most beautiful kiss i always think about the smoke kiss in only friends just because the aesthetic of it was amazing. the build up to it was amazing, and hot and heavy with tension and it was so delicious. i scream every time they kiss for the first time in shows, but the smoke kiss left me with my jaw in the ground for several minutes.

alternatively, in thk, the beach kiss for how meaningful it was since it was their first kiss with no lies between them, and the swing kiss that was perfect, they were so into that kiss and it felt so earned, too. fk really knows how to kiss.

also, akkayan's bridge kiss in our skyy 2, never forget that kiss. they were into it and delivering like no one else. absolutely gorgeous.

and let's remember all the pecks, too, because i have a soft spot for all of them. kantbison, yet again, carrying it in the pecks department (did you guys notice that kantbison kissed every ep? it was amazing to see).

and i think this is it? i finally managed to answer everything. ngl, i answered your ask first before a couple others that are sitting on my inbox bc i feel you needed the pick me up and i love talking about firstkhao. this was very fun. thank you for sending me this, and i hope you feel better.

#bibs ask #Anonymous #bibi shut up challenge #failed #but this was incredibly fun ngl i enjoy talking about them way too much #firstkhao #firstkhaotung #first kanaphan #khaotung thanawat

30 notes · View notes

plusultraetc · 3 months ago

Note

Shinsou for the character ask game 💜

MY BOY!!! A free pass to ramble about Shinsou is truly all I need in this world, ty <3

one aspect about them i love

I feel like when I've gotten similar questions in the past, I've always talked about his determination & drive to be a hero, so I'm going to switch it up this time and say I love how adaptable and quick-thinking he is! Shishida pops up out of nowhere and starts taking out your teammates left and right? Copy Tsuburaba's voice in a matter of seconds! Midoriya can maybe use the new quirk that allegedly went haywire? Try to get him to talk to you about it! This Giant Hates That Guy? Ride around on his head while he fights him! Shit happens, including the collapse of hero society, and Shinsou truly says 'I guess we're doing this now.'

one aspect i wish more people understood about them

I hesitate to use this phrase because half the time I'm like "bro do I even understand??" Life is hard when you dabble in stupidity, so instead I'm going to talk about something I wish came up more often in general, and that is: his temper. The thing I've noticed about Shinsou is that he does get angry, but he sucks at staying angry—it burns up quickly, and instead he just ends up kind of sad. It's deeply ironic, bc I would argue that his whole motivation to be a hero comes from staying 'angry' at the way his quirk has been construed as villainous in the past, but like. That's his whole life. It's easy to stay mad about something when it's being reinforced again and again. It's harder to stay mad about something when it happens once and then it takes you 5-10 minutes to figure out a way to blame yourself for it.

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have about this character

He's one of the few characters I actually have several headcanons about, but I think the funniest is that yes, his hair is just Like That. He doesn't style it he doesn't use gel he doesn't do anything. Growing it out was a nightmare because there was an awkward middle phase where it didn't want to be flat but it was too heavy to stand up, and he wore A Lot of headbands.

one character I love seeing them interact with

Obvious answer is obvious, it's Aizawa. Those two are one of my favorite dynamics, if not my absolute favorite, in the entire series. There's like a serious reading of their relationship that's all about legacy, belief, heroism, and vicarious healing, but there's also the fact that it's objectively hilarious that there's two of them. That's twice the judgmental side-eye and twice the deadpan delivery.

one character i wish they would interact with/interact with more

Since I went with the obvious answer for the previous question, I'm going to refrain from doing the same here (even though I would seriously consider selling a non-vital organ, possibly a single kidney, for Mic & Shinsou interactions). Instead I'm going to say Bakugou--I think the times we have seen them interact have been really funny, and in the Joint Training Arc, Bakugou functions as an interesting and unexpected means of demonstrating Shinsou's progress along his character arc. But mostly, they just make me laugh.

one (or more) headcanon(s) i have that involve them and one other character

I really like the idea of Monoma & Shinsou becoming hero course study buddies in their second year, and Shinsou being the only person from 2-A Monoma doesn't openly hassle. Instead he uses him as a vehicle to further annoy the rest of Class A—"Shinsou, I'm so sorry you're stuck with these simpletons, it's a shame you couldn't have transferred into the superior Class B," etc. Their friendship can be so so everything to me.

#THANK YOU FOR THE ASK!!#I PROMISE THE REST OF THESE WON'T BE AS LONG ;-;#i just love my son. we briefly caught up to him again in the manga and i've missed him #oh my son look how much you've grown etc etc #ask game answers #ask #shinsou hitoshi

18 notes · View notes

inchidentally · 1 year ago

Text

also like, as I always say I love the carland0 and dand0 content SO much like it got me into f1blr and I rewatch some of those every week to make me smile <3

but whenever Lando was with those guys - or tbh with any driver older than him - there's always this reverting to baby brother thing where he lets the older guy answer everything more seriously or in detail and then Lando just pipes in w something funny or cute or getting flustered and everyone being like oh that's classic Lando etc etc. and it's always great content lbr!

but him and Oscar being on that freakish wavelength together and automatically sharing responsibilities based on individual strength to do w knowledge/skill (and Lando's mood that day) means we actually get to see Lando's competence and knowledge way more than we used to. bc it's always been there as much as the other guys it's just the ~divergence~ brain making certain environments or certain pressures shutting parts of his brain (and literally do I relate to that).

and not to get too deep but it parallels the fact that when Oscar showed up and everyone was saying how he was Lando's rookie and his protégé etc it threw Lando for a while bc openly said he didn't feel comfortable being in that role to someone else/not having someone older and more experienced to lean on. which I think if Oscar had actually needed that himself it would've not worked at all well - fortunately Zak and Andrea both knew enough of Oscar to know that wouldn't be the case.

BUT !! Oscar knowing cough so much about Lando before joining McLaren meant that even though he rly never needed Lando to be in that guidance/leader role for him, he picked up on Lando genuinely wanting to try and like - that's where the wavelength was established. bc Oscar did put himself in the role of following what Lando chooses and learning Lando's preferences and behaviors which in turn ! fulfilled Lando wanting to do the team and himself proud and be there for Oscar as basically the existing face of McLaren and the popular driver who was able to win over fans and media to Oscar who were not only reluctant to like Oscar at the time, they were actively rooting for his downfall and reveling in McLaren's tough start to 2023. because Lando pushed for such solidarity and included Oscar so much in his social media back then, Oscar returned the favor by learning and copying from Lando how to engage w media and fans on the F1 level of scrutiny. and because Oscar went so unusually quiet and observant with Lando compared to Oscar with the guys in F3 and F2, Lando kept complimenting how "calm" Oscar was and how it was rubbing off on him.

like I know there's the rpf of it all but it's why I feel like we all latch on so hard with landoscar as it exists just in reality bc there's been the opposite of bromance and convenience for them that their dynamics w other drivers have had (similar personalities, interests, being invested in PR - or not, in Oscar's case) and they also didn't even have fans rooting for them to be friends or even be great teammates bc of Alpine drama and being bitter about Daniel AND add to the fact that Lando himself was resistant to the idea of being the older guy. yet despite having that uphill battle and their personalities in superficial/social ways being diametrically opposed, they're the teammates that are known for their freakish mind-reading/twinning and they naturally form to the same car requirements and preferences and after just one season together have the narrowest margins between them on track. and Lando was truly one foot out the door at points last season and while most of him being swayed was loyalty to McLaren, I think if Oscar had been just as competitive as he is BUT wasn't as perfectly matched for Lando as he is then... idk drivers have left teams that felt like 'home' for less reason than that !!

idk Lando twice catching himself referring to Oscar as if they've been teammates for years instead of barely even a season and a half and Oscar having this metamorphosis that's been visible on camera based on using Lando as his pole star for coping with the leap from F2 success->languishing at Alpine->F1 in a rollercoaster season for McLaren. to now watching them in all their content easily swapping duties with unspoken agreement and picking up the middle of each other's thoughts seamlessly (and Wired deciding to have both of them do it instead of just one like usual) and Lando looking to Oscar every time he forgets a word bc Oscar will have it for him immediately. they sit back together and enjoy watching every other team and driver go through chaos bc they've both committed to their team already and don't have to worry about all that for a good while.

sure a lot of us would prefer if they had the shared outside hobby to ensure hanging out even when they're one day no longer teammates but askgsajfglafg honestly for me that's a future concern that idc about !! there's something so we didn't just become teammates against the odds we became one of the best teammate pairings against the odds about them that's compelling in a sports/competition sense but also in the way they hold something fairly special between them as drivers - and undeniably at least in part as people - and them not choosing to advertise for fans when they travel together or hang out or have their own little debriefs and decompresses together - like them being so proud of their new privacy door to their drivers rooms and emphasizing how it's their own place to be private private and away from everyone (even Jon and Kim!) but it's so shared between them that Oscar still hears all of Lando's music

it's such a massive, conscious commitment to each other in a career that is basically most of their lives every year and it's just so !!!! all on it's own as it is for me <3<3

#inchidentallyanessay #landoscar meta #drivers rooms #landoscar hub tour

69 notes · View notes

fancyfade · 7 days ago

Note

Idk if you've read it, but if you have: Robins (2021) by Tim Seeley? ☕

I did.

I found it really mid (sorry :P)

I think that there were some potential neat ideas, including some commentary with Steph IMO, but the art was ugly and the characters were mostly badly written.

reviews from LOCG

issue 3: Anyway issue 2 was better. I feel like damian hasn't done anything at all in this plotline seeley would it kill you to let him succeed at things? There was some bits of tim advocating letting the gauntlet guys die but I am not gonna assume it was actually tim until we get a clear timeline, because last page shows the villain lady was fake being him and he's tied up in her lair. Unsure when the swap was made. The art is generally unimpressive especially the bit with Stephanie fighting fake poison ivy is weird.

issue 2:

Seeing the calling out the hypocrisy around stephs treatment (narratively and by Bruce) was satisfying. The art is sadly lacking.

comments:

Yeah I was generally underwhelmed. There were a couple neat moments but nothing really to write home about and some stuff felt ooc. I feel like seeley really didn't understand damian which is a shame bc he's my favorite of the lot.

I also think Bruce's dynamic with Anita was pretty OOC for that stage of Bruce and it was an awkward inclusion to the lore.

#robins 2021 #dc comics #ask #alicepooryorick

12 notes · View notes

pynkhues · 5 months ago

Note

Gabrielle likes Nicki more??? Oh my god wait what's the tea? Do Louis and Gabrielle not get along? I figured they did bc the fandom at large seems to think Gabrielle and Louis would team up 'against' Lestat i.e. mock him and stuff

The books (at least the ones that I've read [again, I've only read through Memnoch]) never really explore Louis and Gabrielle's relationship in any sort of meaningful way, but I think the fanon that Gabrielle and Louis would team up against Lestat is a bit nuts, honestly. They only connect at all in the books because they love Lestat.

Not only is Lestat the only character Gabrielle ever truly loves (and lives vicariously through in the books), but any grace she shows to other characters (Nicki included), is a product of that. She looks after Nicki after Lestat's turned him because she loves Lestat, and Lestat's crashing out, and her relationship with Armand is disastrous in no small part because she sees him as dangerous to her son.

Gabrielle's priority is, ultimately, herself - she's a selfish character, and personally, I love that about her - but her second priority will always be Lestat, and the idea that she would mock him with Louis is absolutely and entirely fanon. She doesn't talk much, love doesn't come easily to her, but she would and does kill for him, and he is it for her. That's her child, her surrogate self, her partway lover, she's possesive of him, and the idea that insulting him would result in common ground between her and Louis in the show 'verse now that Louis is (rightfully! excitinglly!) remaining a main character, is wild to me.

Which is to say nothing of the reverse! I mean, do you think Louis would get along with Lestat's mother, who denied him an education to the point she refused to teach him to read when she was educated herself? Who did nothing during situations of abuse with his father and brothers, who withheld her own love to ultimately both survive and control him, and, depending on how the show interprets it, potentially enter a sexual relationship with him? I don't think the show's version of Louis is that person at all, and in fact I think if Louis knows any of that, that there's a part of him who'll hate her on sight. (I love Gabrielle as a character, but she's a very complicated character! And if Louis does hate her, which I suspect he will, he'll be right for that).

Gabrielle had a relationship with Nicki when they were all still human - Nicki grew up in the Auvergne with Lestat! - which shapes a significant part of their dynamic. She doesn't have that with Louis, and honestly I think the potential for conflict there is too meaty and exciting for the show to give up, especially given if the show sticks to the books, Louis and Gabrielle are going to be stuck together trying to save Lestat in the QOTD season/s. With my writer's hat on, they're a really (really) organic source of conflict, and I'd be surprised if Rolin and Co didn't lean into that.

#the fandom at large thinking they'd get along has actually genuinely surprised me #i think they'll barely tolerate each other #and i'm living for that tbh haha #iwtv asks #iwtv s3 speculation #louis asks #gabrielle asks

17 notes · View notes

tamsiblings · 1 month ago

Note

so I've always wondered this in the back of my mind but your reblog recently brought it back to the forefront

this line especially, but also the vibe you get throughout the entire show that Simon is habitually caring for and protecting river since that what he's always done. And I've been wondering: protecting her from what? The show never shows us what Simon Protecting River looked like before he broke her out of the fucked up lab. I have a pretty good idea that it may have been a form of emotional neglect from their parents. They don't notice River's distress in her letters and basically disown Simon when he goes off to save her so maybe they were the type to never listen to their children or believe them when they expressed their needs. Or care more about how their children's behavior made their family appear socially and less about how their children were actually doing. I also wonder if River didn't have a bit of the Gifted Child syndrome going on and their parents treated her more as a prodigy than a daughter. And Simon had to stand up for her and try to get their parents to see her as a girl first and a genius second.

It would have been really cool to see this actually in the show as a flashback or something, but I bet you've thought about it loads and want to hear your take.

warning: this got reallly tangenty and long as i am wont to do oops <3 putting most of it under a cut

warnings for discussion of emotional neglect and a variety of other factors i think could reasonably be labelled as emotional and psychological abuse. emotional neglect on its own is to my understanding a form of emotional abuse, but i think there are other layers here as well.

anyway heyyyy bestie talking about the tams (including the parents tbh, the little we get of this family structure is fascinating to me) (we do actually get more on simon and river's background than anyone else! bc it's so connected to the current story anyway) is my favorite thing as you may have guessed so thank you for sending this.

and YES i have thought about this a lot <3

simon said he "always has" taken care of river and while i think on a literal level this is likely a Slight exaggeration (even if their parents weren't around physically for that whole aspect of taking care of, i think their material needs were always met and they likely had the means for a nanny or some other kind of support) but on an emotional level, i think this is very true.

i think you are 100 percent spot on with the emotional neglect and other unhealthy dynamics. here's some of what we know on that front:

the tam parents could be affectionate and even indulgent when it was easy and suited their own ends. ie. getting the source box for simon and assuring him he's worth it, calling them "you two geniuses" etc. this could be a very sweet moment and in some ways it is, because i truly believe the tams both believe in the worth and specialness of their children...

but their affection is clearly quite conditional. deeply. and, i think, more than anyone involved quite realizes. it's followed up by "that's the deal - dedicated sourcebox - brilliant doctor'. no matter how lightlyheartedly and affectionately it's said, it's clear it's seriously meant - and baby!simon clearly takes it to heart. (note: i've always interpreted this as simon already expressing interested in medicine and his father basically going "fine, but whatever you're doing, you have to be the best at it". i'm sure attorney or corporate ceo also would have sufficed for their image-focused needs, as long as he was successfuly and prestigious enough.)

i should also note that the the dynamic between regan and her children is far more implied because the focus in safe is mostly on gabriel.

a quote from an interview with sean maher: “It was great to learn where Simon came from. We see that his parents are incredibly ostentatious. There were so many expectations and Simon and River felt so much pressure, trying to be what their parents wanted them to be. And we got an idea of what happened to River. The parents sent her away to a school they thought would further her learning. Maybe they were naive in a sense, to think of only bettering her mind and not listening to her as a girl–as their daughter.” (emphasis mine)

notable here (and i love sean maher for noting this because, understandably because river isn't present in the flashbacks in the episode proper, it's not as clear what river's dynamic with their parents is, but certainly inferences can be made) is that both simon and river feel expectations and pressure from their parents, not just simon.

which leads to me wondering about river going to the academy. i think multiple things can be true here at once. i think, as simon says in the pilot, she did genuinely want to go. she was curious and brilliant and bright and not challenged enough in the current education system she found herself in or by her peers. she wanted something rigorous. i think a lot of that probably DID come from her. but i also do wonder if there was a level of their parents always expecting her to challenge herself in this way because, as you mention and i think implied in the quote above, they valued her brilliance and prodigy above her personhood. i also think it's possible (though i'm less sure on this) that river wanting to go to a school where she lives away from her parents and can both live up to their expectations but where she can distance herself from them could indicate something about how she feels. but might be reading too much into things.

there are also elements of controlling behavior that goes hand in hand with both the conditional love and the valuing their children for their intelligence/ability over simply valuing them as their childhood. in the shooting script, the offer simon gets goes through gabriel, and it's not presented as one opportunity or path simon can take. it's The Plan, and there's no room for deviation even when the most dire of circumstances calls for it. (and like, this would never happen because simon does genuinely value medicine and being a doctor, but in an interesting excercise: how would the conversation look if simon decided he didn't want to be a doctor o some other prestigious high paying XYZ? or even that he wanted to pursue a different opportunity he found on his own and is maybe not quite as prestigious in medicine? i don't get the sense it would have gone over that well.) we don't really get a sense of this with river because again, she's less present in the episode - but i think reasonable assumptions can be made.

^ it's a funny story that simon tells kaylee in object in space, about paying the feds off so they wouldn't tell his father about his drunken (and relatively harmless) escapade with his peers after making surgeon, and tbf, a lot of people probably wouldn't want their parents to know that. but in context with the rest of this, it feels very telling that simon did not want his father (or presumably his mother) knowing he acted at all in a way that could be considered undignified or that he got in any degree of trouble (it doesn't even sound like he was arrested, the police just showed up and he didn't want his parents to find out.)

in many ways, it seems clear both simon and river start off as golden children in their parents eyes - they care about them and value their gifts, but more like you would care about a trophy than a child. they care about what river and simon reflect on them. and notably, when river is no longer just the brilliant prodigy-child but vulnerable, in need of protection, and a symbol of inconvenient truth they don't want to face (a number of them, really - the misplaced trust in their government/society/system, the fragility of status and the false sense of security, their own culpability and failures to protect their children) - instead of helping her when she needs them the most, they ignore and abandon her. and when simon can't do the same, he - as the "truthteller" in many family dynamics of this structure often do - becomes some degree of a scapegoat. he faces the truth they are unable or unwilling to see. they turn a blind eye but simon can't, it's not who he is and he loves river too much. and suddenly, when he's not doing and saying and being exactly what they say he should because he's focused on helping river, he's treated like he's causing problems for no reason - like he's the problem. like he's making a big deal over nothing when he tries to show them the letters, when his father says "are you trying to destroy this family?" as though their daughter being kept and tortured against her will and their own refusal to acknowledge it isn't what's actually doing the family-destroying. and while i think simon getting scapegoated/othered/treated as a problem is a rather new development, and don't imagine they were getting constantly berated - in the scene at the end of safe, YMMV, but gabriel seems a little too comfortable quite ufairly berating simon for things that are quite obviously not his fault or for at all disappointing him. i don't think it was always happening - but i don't think this comes out of nowhere.

on the causing problems for no reason (or a reason they dismiss) component; this feels particularly insidious because they should know their son well enough to know simon doesn't do that. he doesn't do things for no reason, he has a highly overly developed sense of responsibility (which comes back into his dynamic with river ofc.) so like... either they do know that and are purposefully ignoring and even twisting it, or they don't know their son nearly as well as they should.

the scapegoating component lends itself to the extremely uncomfortable gaslighting component in safe. in fairness: i think this aspect of the Tams Very Poor Parenting Choices is likely much more situational and less indicative of past behaviors. regardless, it's pretty rough to watch simon point out things that are quite obviously strange (they don't KNOW anyone called d'arbanville) and have his parents treat him like he's paranoid and insane.

this also comes with a certain level of guilt tripping and beratement. i will say it forever: if i had a child and they were arrested, the FIRST thing i do is ask them if they're okay, figure the rest out later. "

and again: some aspects of all this are situational as we get into the river-at-the-academy component, but i think there's a lot that can be read into the tam family dynamic as a whole based on all this.

so on some level - a lot of THAT is why simon says he's always taken care of/protected river - i don't think he necessarily could have entirely saw or named or what their parents were doing for what it was (which i would argue, as you said, was some degree of emotional neglect and emotional abuse, though some of this is implied or inferred - i would argue based on evidence, but just something to keep in mind). but i do think he developed a sense of responsibility over her and a caretaking role as result.

because it's very notable to me that - for instance - in the river tam sessions, river specifically asks for simon. she doesn't say "i want to see my parents" or even "i want to see my family" but "i want to see my brother." and yes, you could argue that this is because that's who the audience who most care about/be familiar with - but with the rest of the context, it feels extremely significant. in the serenity film, she says something similar to what simon says in that shooting script flashback - "you take care of me, simon. you've always taken care of me. my turn" after simon gets shot and right before she goes in to get his bag and fight the reavers. and like, you could argue that she means ever since the academy - but "always" feels much more weighted than that to me.

it's also interesting to me that river doesn't seem to have as much difficulty reconciling with the fact that their parents abandoned them (and a whole host of other stuff, as established, but that's what the show most focuses on.) now, in fairness, river has a LOT going on - psychic and emotional overwhelm, lots of trauma and intrusive memories - both hers and others, etc - so it makes sense that maybe that just wouldn't be on her register regardless. but i also think... well 1) being so in tuned into what others think and feel, even if she might not have been quite able to name it, i do think she's understood longer than simon (maybe since before the academy; i am still curious if that's paret of why she left) how their parents really saw them. so she's had more time to accept and move on from it. 2) there's this other level where river DID have someone protecting her - simon - even if it took a long time to realize what he was protecting her from. while i think it probably looked less intense than it does in the show proper where she is so deeply traumatized, there is no doubt in my mind that if she was ever upset or anything ever went wrong, it was simon she turned to for comfort or help, not her parents. which tbc: <333 i love them. and this is not her fault at all. but simon Did Not Have That. i think he protected her without quite knowing that's what he was doing for a long time... and didn't realize he needed protection too and wasn't getting it.

which makes it difficult to reconcile and move on from, which is why in the moment in safe when river (seemingly talking about gabriel but likely talking about mal) insists "daddy" will come for them - simon totally shuts down. because he knows that's not going to happen, and it hurts a little too much to deal with, but he's still fairly RECENTLY coming to terms with How Their Parents Are - and the fact that he did not have emotional support. so now he doesn't know how to let himself even ADMIT that he also needs care.

final note (god sorry this is sooo long) i will also say that, while i (as a #tam siblings lover) am often very sad/angry/frustrated about simon and river's dynamic with their parents, and that i certainly will never excuse emotional abuse or this kind of parental behavior, that i try and hope to approach the tam parents in any analysis or ficwriting i might do from a very human angle. the range of human complexity is fascinating to me, and i don't think it does the themes of the show justice to act like the tam parents are outright monsters, totally good or totally bad (note: this is so not in the slightest me saying that i think you are doing this. more just thinking out loud about fandom discussions i have seen surrounding this topic.)

this gets at larger discourse both in fandom and in general i think there is a tendency in our society to want either completely villainize or idolize people (and this maybe becomes especially true in complicated relationships like this). when we talk about abuse to any degree and of any kind, people often want to dehumanize and villainize the abuser in such a way that separates themselves from that possibility - "abusers are evil and inhuman and i'm nothing like that so there's no way i could ever cause that kind of harm etc." but in actuality, there is no inherent internal quality that makes someone an abuser - it is a pattern of harmful behavior that people can choose to do and choose not to do. and i don't want to suggest that people who do this are abusive themselves, that's not what i mean - only that i think the mindset comes from a culture that insists on some very black and white thinking. i think it's a very natural human impulse to want to separate ourselves that way, but also maybe gets us away from seeing the bigger picture. and to be clear: i don't mean to suggest that anyone owes an abuser anything, or that simon and river, for example, should have to forgive their parents. that's not true here or in real life. i only mean to say that people are more complicated than being fully good or fully bad, and firefly reflecting this is one of my favorite things about it.

and again, this is complicated with the tam parents because i'm making a lot of (what i feel are supported, but even so) inferences and assumptions here. so whether you want to identify them as emotionally abusive/neglectful etc is a whole can of worms. but regardless, it's clear their behavior and parenting harmed their children. BUT here are where some major caveats come in:

similarly to the way people often do in other contexts, i have seen people want to outright completely villainize the tams and while i understand this impulse, i think it comes from the same place that a lot of well-meant but misguided discussions do. there are those that think they either must have never cared about river in any capacity at all or actively agreed to sell her out to the alliance (a theory i not only don't like or subscribe to but actually feel misses the point of what's going on with the tams and is less interesting even besides). but i think that sets up the tams to look cartoonishly evil in a way that the narrative doesn't support or intend. do i think the tams are good parents? well, no! i think it was easy to look like good parents when things were easy, but even then, there were cracks. (though i don't think everything was always bad - even in abusive situations, that is usually not the case - there are reasons why people love their parents and stay and have a hard time seeing the bad - because things aren't always like that.) i have also seen people insist or write like it's a given that the tams must have also been physically abusive, and while i don't want and would never tell anyone what they can and can't write, by my own reading, i find that unlikely. i think some of that is often coming from a place of people working through their own stuff, which again - never gonna tell anyone not to do that, you do you - but i also think at times it speaks to a societal tendency to assume that the harm isn't bad enough if it isn't physical - but i think we get a good sense of how deeply simon and river are affected even outside of the confirmation of any physical harm from their parents. (note: i do think the tams being willfully ignorant and leaving their daugher to be tortured and experimented on while on some level know that's what happening is a form of physical abuse or neglected, it's just situational and not in the traditional sense.)

but what i think is so important present, and much more interesting in this story, is that the tams are not evil, so to speak, or at least aren't mustache-twirling villains. they're not even entirely bad-intentioned; i believe they do genuinely want good things for their children, even if they have very specific ideas of what it should look like and how it will benefit them. but they have wholeheartedly, implicitly, without any room at all for questioning bought into the system values of the core and the alliance: prestige, status, and privilege treated as worth, family as a hollow projection of prestige, disruption as the ultimate trespass. to me, the story with regard to the tam parents isn't about them not caring or valuing simon and river at all - it's about valuing those things above them, and how their care is warped and shaped by those harmful systematic values.

now, this is rarer, but i have also seen people want to (maybe in response to above?), if not idolize, then absolve the tams of the role they played in river's abuse at the hands of the academy, but that doesn't ring true to me either. i want to be fair where it's due and say yes, there was danger involved (which simon put himself through) in helping river, but the fact is the narrative focuses much more on the tams focusing on what it could cost them on a social level - their status and "good name", prestige, etc. and at the end of the day, when you have children, you have responsibility to them - and the tam parents failed both of their children on that front.

one thing i also thing is so interesting to note is that simon and river are so loyal and value connection so deeply when it's clear that is not what was most instilled in them on a systematic level or taught to them by their parents. in fact, i think you could argue that while some of it was intrinsic to who they are (here's the old nature vs. nurture debate which i think you could argue simon and river are the two biggest representers of on the show), i also think it's a repsonse to this bond they formed specifically BECAUSE of their parents.

#firefly #the tams #simon tam #river tam #tam siblings #gabriel tam #regan tam #i also think you could argue that #while i don't want to suggest that 'intellect' so to speak or classical education is the end all be all or forms morality #there's something to be said for river and simon both being VERY academically minded + having a lot of natural curiosity + and access to #free thought #something passion of the nerd pointed out in the episode about safe - that might have been to some degree restricted but simon gained acces #to through the sourcebox and hearing other ideas etc #and river and simon even outside of being 'smart' in that sense are curious. despite the culture that formed them demanding they don't.#unlike the way book describes how operatives are trained to think #they both (maybe not in so many words) ask 'why' a LOT #but that has less to do with teh family structure and more to do with the system as a whole and the way neither entirely fits into it -#river i think knowingly #simon a little less so #my meta #feels too incoherent to call it that but #felagund fiollaigean #<333 thank you for asking it made my brain buzz #safe #shooting scripts #god how many words is this #long post //

9 notes · View notes