#i don’t want anybody to think i’m copying anybody LOL

[jess-tra]

more of my swap au.. hi siffrin!!! hi!!!!!!!

first au post

[er1nne]

fix this

⸝⸝⸝ ⑅ —໒ྀི ִֶָ rafe’s impulsive actions and failed attempt to fix things with a ignite a heated argument, leaving you feeling unseen and misunderstood.

word count 1.7k

warnings : yelling & arguments so angst but ends on a good note / fluff

AN: the problem is left ambiguous & left to the imagination so you can make up the problem, you guys loved the last one lol :) i have plenty more in the vault so let me know if y'all want them. enjoy!

(please do not copy or plagiarize, this is my original work subject to copyright)

Rafe knows he’s in deep shit. He can tell he’s in deep shit. And he barely knows how he got here...nope he totally know how he got here.

The weight of it presses on his chest like a cinder block, a suffocating reminder of the mess he’s made. It’s the first thing he feels when he hears your footsteps stomping up the stairs on to the porch. The tightness in his stomach churns, and his hands instinctively find the edge of the counter, gripping it hard enough that his knuckles pale.

He rubs his hand over his jaw, rough and restless, staring at the front door like it might swallow him whole. It doesn’t. The door swings open, and there you are—eyes already blazing with fury, every bit of it directed at him.

You slam the door behind you with a force that makes him flinch. The sharp crack of wood echoes in the silence before you speak.

“I can’t believe you, Rafe!” you snap, your voice trembling, sharp enough to cut. “Do you ever think? Like, at all?”

The way you look at him—like he’s the worst kind of idiot—makes him stiffen, though he leans back against the counter, trying to feign some level of calm. It doesn’t work. He hates that look, not just from you but from anybody.

“I didn’t think it was that big of a deal,” he says, shrugging in what he hopes comes off as nonchalant. But his voice falters just slightly, betraying him. He knows it’s the wrong thing to say, even as the words leave his mouth. Way to put a foot in your mouth.

“Oh, my God.” You throw your hands up, your movements jerky, overwhelmed. “You didn’t think it was that big of a deal? Of course, you didn’t. You never think!”

The accusation hangs heavy in the air, sharp and piercing. He runs a hand through his hair, yanking at the strands in frustration. There you go again. Can't you tell he's sorry. Why'd you have to go there of all places. Why’d you have to say it like that? “Alright, just—calm down for a second,” he says, his tone already edging into defensive territory. “You’re making it sound worse than it is.”

“Calm down?” you repeat, and there’s a bitter edge to your voice that makes his stomach twist. “You think I’m overreacting?”

“No, that’s not what I’m saying,” he fires back, the words snapping out of him before he can stop them. His shoulders are tense, his movements jerky as he gestures vaguely between the two of you. “I’m saying I didn’t mean for it to be—whatever this is.”

You scoff, shaking your head as if the audacity of his explanation is too much to comprehend. “Unbelievable. You don’t even get it, do you? You don’t care how this makes me feel. You just do whatever you want, and I’m supposed to just—deal with it?”

“That’s not fair,” he says through gritted teeth, his jaw clenching as he pushes off the counter. “I didn’t do this to hurt you.”

“But you didn’t care enough to stop and think about me, either,” you shoot back, your voice rising with each word. “Do you have any idea how that feels? To know that I don’t even cross your mind when you make these dumb, impulsive decisions?”

The words hit him hard, like a gut punch he didn’t see coming. He exhales sharply, his frustration boiling over. He paces a few steps, his hands restless, like he’s trying to find an outlet for the tension coiling in his chest.

“Look, I—I’m trying, alright?” he says, his voice rough and strained. “I know I screwed up. That’s why I got you this.”

He gestures toward the counter, where an expensive box sits, perfectly wrapped with a crisp bow. It’s something he picked up earlier, certain it would fix everything. Now, standing here under your fiery gaze, it feels like a monument to his failure.

Your eyes flick to the box, then back to him, your expression darkening. “Are you kidding me right now?”

“What?” he says, his voice rising with confusion and a touch of defensiveness. He throws his arms out, his frustration bubbling to the surface. “I was trying to—”

“It’s not about the damn gift, Rafe!” you yell, your voice cracking slightly under the weight of your emotions. “This isn’t something you can fix with money. Do you think I’m that shallow? You think you can throw a couple of thousands at me and it'll make my feelings go away?”

Your breath stutters for a moment before continuing, “Do you think I’m like all the other girls you’ve bought? You can’t do that with me. You can’t just throw money at this and expect it to go away. You have to be a person—a human—with me.”

He flinches, the words cutting deeper than he cares to admit. “No, that’s not—I’m just trying to fix it, okay?” His voice rises in desperation now. “I don’t know what else you want from me!”

“I want you to feel something!” you snap, the tremor in your voice betraying the raw hurt beneath your anger. “I want you to stop throwing money at everything and actually care about how I feel. But I guess that’s asking too much.”

The accusation lands like a blow, and he’s left staring at you, at the tears brimming in your eyes. The anger drains from his face, leaving something raw and uncertain in its place.

“I do care,” he says quietly, his voice rough and uneven. “I just—I don’t know how to… do this.” His hands move in an awkward, aimless gesture, like the words he needs are somewhere just out of reach. His voice is low, almost a whisper. It’s the kind of vulnerability he doesn’t like showing—doesn’t know how to. But he can’t bring himself to look away from you as he peers at you with those icy eyes.

You scoff, shaking your head again, but you don’t storm out. He notices this, clings to it like a lifeline, grateful in a way he doesn’t know how to put into words.

“Look,” he says, stepping closer, his movements hesitant, cautious. His hands twitch at his sides like they’re drawn to you, but he doesn’t touch you—not yet. “I’m not good at this, alright? I screw up—a lot. But I swear, I didn’t mean to hurt you. I hate seeing you like this.”

Your shoulders sag, and for a moment, you look just as tired as he feels. “Then stop making me feel like I don’t matter,” you murmur, your voice softer now, but no less weighted. “Stop acting like I’m just… an afterthought.”

“You’re not,” he says quickly, his voice firm and insistent. He steps closer, his hands finally settling on your arms. “You’re not an afterthought, okay? You’re—you’re everything to me. I just don’t know how to show it sometimes.”

For a moment, you don’t respond. You just stand there, his hands warm and solid against your arms, the tension between you palpable. Then, slowly, you look up at him.

“I just need to know you’re willing to change, I need you to try...” you say softly, your voice thick with emotion.

The room feels smaller now, the space between you charged but quieter. His hand moves, almost hesitantly, until it settles lightly on your arm. “I don’t know how to do this,” he repeats, his voice rough and uneven. “But I want to. For you.”

You search his face, your gaze lingering on his eyes like you’re trying to find something—sincerity, maybe. And when you finally nod, your body relaxing slightly in his grip, it feels like the first breath he’s taken in hours.

“You better,” you say, your voice quiet but steady now.

“I will,” he promises. Rafe’s lips twitch upward, his own smile soft and unsure. He leans down, pressing a tender kiss to your forehead. His arms wrap around the entirety of your body, holding you in his warm embrace like he never wants to let go. You feel his heartbeat against yours as the remenants of his anger fade away.

It’s not a perfect fix. Not even close. But as he holds you close, he feels like maybe, just maybe, he’s finally starting to understand.

divider by @crazyfrm!

[janeyseymour]

As per your request! I just copied and pasted it from my comment!!

Also. Love your stories. Love it when you post them. They’re just always so short!! I’m so greedy! I always want more!! I’m always full of ideas so if you need any just ask. (I feel like you don’t need them though you do so well writing!) I’m far to ADHD to actually write any of them so happy for you to create the magic lol

They randomly meet a few weeks/months later in a coffee shop and sit down and chat… or she just happens to Bert her bestie Ava at the school hoping to get a glimpse of her!!

I dunno. You’re the artist! As long as it’s happy and smooshy!! 🥰

Thank you for your sweet, sweet words! As requested, here is part 2! I definitely didn't follow the prompt at all, but this is what I came up with, and I hope it's okay!

Enchanted- pt 2

Part 1

WC: ~2.4k

You went to text Ava the next day after meeting Melissa, but you just couldn’t find the courage. So here you are, still just sitting at your desk job, thinking about her. Your mind is filled with what she could be doing right now- actually you know what she’s doing: it’s 11 am on a Monday morning. She’s at school, probably teaching her second graders. You sit there for another half an hour before it’s finally time for your lunch break, and you take the walk down to the Wawa around the corner like you usually do. 

Melissa opens up her Tupperware container, only to let out a loud groan at the odor that comes out of it.

“What the hell is that smell?” Ava scrunches her nose up as she walks in.

“I knew it was a risk bringing this today,” the redhead grumbles as she dumps the contents out into the trash can. “But I thought I could get another day out of it.”

“Damn, girl,” the principal laughs. “That sucks. Wawa lunch for you, I guess.”

“Anyone want anything?” the second grade teacher asks as she slings her bag over her shoulder. Jacob goes to say something, but he’s cut off by Melissa loudly announcing, “Alright, if no one wants anything, I’ll be back in twenty minutes.”

She storms her way down to the convenience store- the same convenience store that you’re currently standing in. She sees you as soon as she walks in.

You’re not nearly as dressed up as you were the other night when she saw you, and you look to be in deep concentration as you decide what you want for lunch that day. She chuckles as she watches your furrow your brows deeper than she ever thought possible. She’s absolutely enamored.

“For Christ’s sake, Y/N,” you chastise yourself quietly. “Just pick something.”

She stands behind you and laughs softly. “You know, you can’t go wrong with their quesadillas.”

You nearly jump three feet in the air. You weren’t expecting anybody to come up behind you, and you certainly weren’t ready for the woman that has been occupying your thoughts to be there.

“Oh my…” you take a deep breath as you look at her. She looks… wow. Your cheeks instantly heat up. “Hey, Melissa.”

“Hey, hun,” she chuckles. “You forget lunch today too?”

You don’t really want to admit this, but you aren’t about to lie. “I usually take a walk down here everyday for lunch.”

“Everyday?”

“Like clock work,” you tell her, as you still mull over what to get for lunch. “It’s so bad most of the employees here know me by name.”

As if on cue, one of the workers there looks up and gives you a grin. “Hey, Y/N! The usual today?”

“Usual?” Melissa smirks.

“Aw, yeah!” the employee grins. “Homegirl comes in everyday!”

“Damn, you weren’t kidding’,” the redhead mutters, smirk still written on her face. She hip checks you lightly, effectively making you move over. She hits a few buttons, and then looks at you expectantly. You just stand there, not quite sure what you’re supposed to do.

“Oi,” the woman rolls her eyes. “Put in your order before I order for you.”

“Oh, no,” you stumble out. “I- I couldn’t ask you to pay for my-”

“You didn’t ask, I’m just doin’ it. And I ain’t gonna hear any arguments,” she tells you sternly.

“Melissa, I-”

“Hey, kid!” the teacher calls to the employee that greeted you. “What’s her order?”

He rattles it off as Melissa taps through the different screens, and you give him a look of betrayal. She prints off the ticket, wanders over to the drinks and grabs a raspberry tea before heading for the register.

“Melissa, you really don’t have to,” you try again.

She’s already handing the ticket over to the man behind the counter and pulling her card out of her wallet though.

“At least let me give you cash… or Venmo?”

“Absolutely not,” she rolls her eyes. The two of you stand and wait for them to make your meals, and when she hands in the printed paper and gets your food, she hands it to you with a smile. “Enchanted.”

With a hair toss, she makes her way out. The entire walk back to your office, you grin. She bought you lunch. She said, ‘enchanted’ again. Then, you mentally kick yourself because you didn’t ask her out, you didn’t ask for her number, you didn’t tell her you would get the next meal, you didn’t even reply with that one word that seems to be your thing now.

You eat your usual order from Wawa, and there’s something about it… it just tastes so much better.

As Melissa struts back into the school, she has that confident smile on her face.

“Damn, what happened to you in that Wawa, girl?” Ava laughs as she watches the redhead settle back into her seat and take a bite of her hoagie.

“Oh, nothin’,” the redhead shrugs. “Just saw a friend there.”

The next day, Melissa doesn’t come into school with a container full of her own cooking like she usually does. She doesn’t even enter the staff room when lunchtime rolls around. Instead, she grabs her bag and heads down the street to hopefully run into you again at the Wawa. 

You’re standing there again, ordering your meal, although you look a little frustrated today. She doesn’t know that your frustration is because you had been standing there for ten minutes, hoping she would come in. You had just admitted defeat and decided to order when she waltzed in.

“Rough day?” the redhead saunters over and asks you.

Your eyes go wide, and the mental fog is lifted when you hear her voice and smell her perfume. “Hey.”

“Rough day?” she repeats.

You shake your head. “Just a little tired,” you tell her as you move to the side so she can put in her order. “I can’t focus on anything at work.”

She taps away on the screen, ordering hers and then also yours. 

You swallow hard. “You remember my order?”

“Course I do,” she shrugs. She hits the button to print the ticket, but as she goes to grab it, you take it first. You make your way over to the drink stations, grab a diet coke, and gesture for her to get her own drink. She grabs a raspberry tea again and then follows you to the register. As you go to hand your card over, a gentle hand slaps your card out of your hand and to the ground. She’s standing there with a smirk as she goes to hand her own card over.

“Aye, Schemmenti,” you playfully growl as you bend over to pick your card up. “It’s my turn to buy.”

“Nah, I got this one,” she chuckles. She also goes to hand her card over, but you smack it out of her hand and throw your card at the employee- a man who is used to seeing you come in and actually checked the two of you out yesterday.

“It’s her turn,” the man shrugs with a cheeky smile as he takes your card, although he does slightly cower at Melissa’s glare. Then the redhead turns to you and immediately turns softer.

“Thank you,” she places a gentle hand on your shoulder. “But I got next one.”

“Alright, alright,” you laugh as the two of you head over to the counter to wait for your meals.

“So, you forgot your lunch again?” you ask her.

“Yeah,” she sighs. “Had it out on the counter and left it.” It’s a complete and total lie. She knew she had to test fate to see you again.

The two of you chat while they get your order together, and once again, she’s bidding you a goodbye with a gentle, ‘enchanted’. This time, you get to say it back, and your smiles and blushes are quite similar to each other. 

This continues for the next few weeks, until one day she doesn’t show up at the Wawa like she usually does. Your day sucks. And you’re supposed to meet with Ava after the school day to go get your nails done. You know she’s going to be onto you when you show up in a bad mood.

“Damn girl,” she rolls her eyes and raises a brow. “What’s got your panties in a twist?”

“Nothin’,” you roll your eyes back. “Let’s just get our nails done and gossip.”

“You know I’m always down for that shit,” she laughs.

The two of you talk for a while as the ladies do your nails before it the conversation turns to your love life.

“Well, who is it this week?” your best friend asks you.

“No one,” you sigh.

“Well no wonder you’re in a bitch mood- you need to get some!”

“Girl, you make me sound like I’m with someone new every weekend, and you know for a fact that I am very much not like that,” you roll your eyes.

“You have to have your eye on someone,” the principal says. “Otherwise you would be out at the bar looking for someone!”

You mull over telling her, and before you know it, the words are spilling out of your mouth, “Well, I do have my eye on one person, but it’ll never happen, so…”

“Ooh, girl! You got tea! Spill it!”

“It’s really not a big deal,” you tell her, hoping she doesn’t pry. Of course she does, it’s Ava, so you have to go about describing Melissa without Ava being able to catch on.

“She’s a little older than us, she’s tough on the outside but has a soft spot for me,” you tell her. “Easy on the eyes, smart as a whip.”

“Girl, why didn’t you tell me you were practically dating someone?! If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you’re describing Schemmenti."

“I’m not,” you roll your eyes. “I really just see M- this woman when we run into each other at Wawa.”

“What’s her name?” the principal wiggles her eyebrows, all too interested in your love life.

“Enough about my love life,” you shut her down. “Anything interesting happen at school today?”

“I had to cover Schemmenti’s classes today,” Ava tells you. “Woman sounded awful today when she was calling out.”

It clicks in your head that that’s why she wasn’t there to meet you at the Wawa like she usually did, and it isn’t like she has your number to let you know she wasn’t going to meet you. You instantly feel a bit of relief that she didn’t just decide not to come- but you feel bad that she isn’t feeling well.

“Oh?” you try to hide how you actually feel about it. “Is she alright?”

“Nasty cough,” your best friend tells you. “But she assured me she’d be back tomorrow… Red never calls out, so I knew she was feeling pretty shitty.”

“That sucks,” you sigh softly. “Hopefully she’s back tomorrow.”

“So you can ‘run into her at Wawa’?” your best friend blind sides you with her casual remark.

“What? I don’t know what you’re talking about,” you say quickly, hoping to cover yourself.

“Oh, please,” she waves the hand that isn’t being painted right now. “I saw the eyes the two of you were giving each other at the fundraiser, and Melissa has been going to Wawa everyday since the one day her lunch went bad. I know she’s going to the same Wawa you go to everyday, and she always comes back in a better mood. I put it together about a week in. And you just confirmed it.”

“I did not.”

“Girl, remember, I’ve known you since we were five. I know when you’re lying. Listen, she’s your type, your hers. I say go for it.”

“Maybe I will… if she’s feeling better and at school tomorrow.”

“If I know Schemmenti, she will be,” Ava rolls her eyes. “She might be half asleep, and an absolute bitch tomorrow, but she’ll be there.”

Melissa looks like hell as she drags herself into the Wawa, but to you she still looks gorgeous as ever. When she spots you, her eyes light up.

“The usual?” she asks you as the two of you head to the ordering stations. Her voice is barely there.

“Mel, you should be home resting,” you tell her pointedly.

“I’m fine,” she grumbles. “Besides, I can’t miss. The kids have important tests coming up, and-” she interrupts herself to cough. It sounds awful.

You lay a gentle hand on her shoulder and rub it soothingly. Once she’s finished coughing, she sighs. 

“Soup instead of your usual hoagie?” you ask her, already pressing buttons to order her a chicken noodle soup.

She looks defeated but nods. “Yeah, that sounds good.”

You insist on paying, telling her to let herself be taken care of. She begrudgingly listens, mumbling about how she’s a Philly girl and she can handle herself. You roll your eyes, but you assure her that she’s still a tough Philly girl- that it’s okay to lean on someone else. As the two of you are standing there, she coughs a few times. Again, you lay a gentle hand on her shoulder. When she’s finally done coughing, she quite literally leans into your body just slightly.

“Sorry I ditched ya yesterday,” she wheezes out. “I couldn’t drag myself out of bed.”

“No need to apologize,” you assure her. “I’m glad you were home getting some rest.”

“I just kept wishing I had a way to tell you,” she mutters.

“Well, why don’t I just give you my number, so if that happens again… or you want to get something besides Wawa with me, we can text?” you shoot your shot with the woman.

“That sounds… enchanting,” she smiles softly. “When I’m feeling better, I’ll make us dinner? I’m one hell of a cook.”

“I’d be enchanted,” you tell her warmly.

As the two of you separate, you get a text from her. Enchanted.

By the time the end of the work day is over, Ava has texted you too. Bitchhh! I’m assuming you shot your shot. Red came back into the school practically dancing.

Yeah. You’re just starting this chapter of life- that one night was truly enchanting, and it really was the very first page. 

Next

[eunnieboo]

IYHM ask replies (thank you!!!)

❤️ Anonymous asked:

hey there just wanted to ask about your book, is there a way of purchase that benefits you most?

hello! this is so thoughtful omg, thank you so much for asking. preordering the book at all is a huge help! more preorders mean there’s a better chance more retailers will want to stock the book, and also lets the publisher know that my work (and hopefully, this kind of story) is something readers are interested in.

i don’t think there’s a specific method of purchase that would benefit me particularly, but i do think this is a lovely opportunity to support an independent bookstore by preordering through them! or if you don’t have the means, requesting it from your local library is always an option.

but again - preordering the book, no matter where or how, means so much. barnes & noble is currently having a 25% off all preorders sale until the 27th, if that interests anybody! i’ve been trying to read more prose novels so i may peruse their collection myself. happy reading!

❤️ u-u-h asked:

Do you know which retailer gives you the largest percentage of the purchase?

i believe it’s all the same! i think the main difference in terms of sales is that hardcovers have a higher return - but i’m not hung up about that, so please get the format you prefer! i will actually not begin to get royalties until a certain number of copies have been sold (i don’t know if “earning out” is a concept exclusive to publishing but i’m happy to talk about that another time), and that’s something out of my control so i can only hope the book does well.

all that is to say, no need to worry about the place of purchase! but i’m so touched by this question. thank you! 🥺

❤️ Anonymous asked:

will there be a chance to pre-order a signed copy of your graphic novel?

my cousin adores your artwork and while i was already going to order a copy for her, i was wondering if ordering a signed version would be possible in the future to order 2 copies; the non-signed for myself and the signed for her. (instead of what i planned which was reading the copy i ordered for her after she read it lol)

omg that’s so sweet of you! HMM ok i looked into this, and i think this is something that can be coordinated with a local bookstore? i think i’d have to come in to sign their stock, and then those signed books could be shipped out. i’ll look into it more but that’s the impression i’m getting!

❤️ ecurps asked:

Congrats on getting published! =D

❤️ Anonymous asked:

congrats on finishing the book🎉‼️‼️ i am so happy and excited for you 💗❣️❤️💕❤️💞💗❣️ ive been following your account for quite a while now and im sooo excited to read it i just cant wait ‼️ wishing u a very successful 2023 👍

thank you so much!!! 😭💖💕🌸✨ AHHH i can hardly believe it myself... i’ve been a hot mess since the cover reveal! i’ve worked on the book for so long that having anyone else perceive it is exciting and terrifying at the same time. it’s like i’m releasing a child into the world haha! but i’m so grateful to everyone for the warm response, and for waiting so patiently. i hope i get to keep making stories like this for a long time ❤️

[aeslenya]

Six Of Crows: Incorrect Quotes

-------

Jesper: How petty can you get?

Kaz: I once edited a Wikipedia article to win an argument I was wrong about.

Jesper: Who were you arguing with?

Kaz: Inej.

Inej: *listening on the other side of the door*

Inej: I KNEW IT!

Kaz: DAMMIT JESPER

-------

Kaz: Don’t worry, I know exactly what I’m doing. Everything is going to be fine!

Matthias: How can you still say that?

Kaz: Because sometimes, when things get tough, denial is all we have.

-------

Nina: Look. I may not be a saint, but it's not like I’ve killed anybody. I’m not an arsonist. I’ve never found a wallet outside of an IHOP and thought about returning it but saw the owner lived out of state so just took the cash and dropped the wallet back on the ground.

Matthias: Okay, that's really specific, and that makes me think that you definitely did do that.

-------

Nina: I made tea.

Kaz: I don’t want tea.

Nina: I did not make tea for you. This is my tea.

Kaz: Then why are you telling me?

Nina: It is a conversation starter.

Kaz: That’s a lousy conversation starter.

Nina: Oh, is it? We are conversing. Checkmate.

-------

Jesper: If there's going to be a big dramatic scene, wait until I get back.

Nina: Of course. I can't flip this table by myself.

-------

'Can I copy the homework?'

Inej: I can help you with it!

Wylan: Yeah, sure.

Jesper: Bold of you to assume I did the homework.

Matthias : lol nope.

Nina: Wait, we had homework?!?!?!

Kaz: *Read 5:55pm*

-------

Kaz: If you bite it and you die, it’s poisonous. If it bites you and you die, it’s venomous.

Wylan: What if it bites me and it dies!?

Inej: Then you’re poisonous. Jesus Christ, Wylan, learn to listen.

Jesper : What if it bites itself and I die?

Nina: That’s voodoo.

Matthias: What if it bites me and someone else dies?

Wylan: That’s correlation, not causation.

Jesper : What if we bite each other, and neither of us die?

Nina: That’s kinky.

Kaz: Oh my God.

[catindabag]

TBOSAS on Crack short take (35)

Felix: Can we all just sit down for a minute? I’m getting kinda nervous.

Androcles: Calm down, Class Pres. We’re just meeting our Tributes.

Clemensia: Yeah. Just treat it like a weird family reunion with a bunch of strangers.

Felix: Don’t say that word! Family reunions are the bane of my existence!😭

Androcles: Your statement’s not helping at all, Clemmie.

Dennis: Yo, guys, are we still going to sing ✨Gem of Panem✨ in front of the Tributes?

Festus: Lol. I hope not. I don’t even remember a word.

Coryo: Can we sing a different song, Class Pres? Our National Anthem might bore them to death.

Felix: Honestly, I forgot about that. Does anybody have a copy? How about you, Andie?

Androcles: Don’t look at me! I only brought popcorn for the show.

Lysistrata: Sharing is caring, Andie~.😊🔪

Coryo: Can we just choose a banned song that our class already knows how to sing?

Apollo: Like what?

Coryo: I don’t know. But it has to be upbeat and catchy-

Dennis: Like “Everytime We Touch” by Cascada?

Sejanus: How about Barbie Girl?😀

Coryo: Yeah! Barbie Girl sounds pretty good, Babe.

Hilarius: I want Barbie Girl too!

Diana: “Everytime We Touch” it is!

Coryo: But Barbie-

Felix: Fine. We can perform Lady Cascada’s iconic song instead.

Apollo: Nice one, Class Pres.

Sejanus: Barbie-

Diana: No.

Hilarius: Barbie Girl!😫

Diana: No!!

Prof.Sickle: *walks in* Children, why are you still standing there like idiots?! Fix your skirts and have some dignity today!

Festus: Can we eat first-

Prof.Sickle: Don’t even think of embarrassing me today, Creed! I’m gunning for that sweet sweet raise!

Urban: Like Highbottom would ever give someone a raise-

Prof.Sickle: Shut it, Turban.

Urban: It’s Urban.

Prof.Sickle: Whatever. The Tributes are here.

Felix: Everyone, get in position!

Treech: *walks in* Wow. This place looks pretty impressive.

Circ: Yeah. Not bad for Capitol idiots.

Teslee: How did they even install so many big ass TV screens inside this hall?

Marcus: Just to be clear, I’m not Marcus today.

Lucy Gray: Where are the cameras? I’m ready for my close-up!😎

Felix: Welcome, Tributes to Heavensbee Hall-

Arachne: Just start the music already, Class Pres!

Felix: Fine! *plays Everytime We Touch*

Androcles: *dramatically grabs the mic* 🎶I still hear your voice when you sleep next to me, I still feel your touch in my dreams🎶

Persephone: *Pretends to beg* 🎶Forgive me my weakness, but I don't know why, Without you, it's hard to survive🎶

Sejanus: *winks and freestyles to Coryo* 🎶Cause every time we touch, I get this feeling, And every time we kiss, I swear I could fly🎶

Coryo: *embarrassed AF, but synchronizes with Sejanus* 🎶Can't you feel my heart beat fast, I want this to last, Need you by my side🎶

Felix: *Charleston dances to the front* 🎶Cause every time we touch, I feel this static, And every time we kiss, I reach for the sky🎶

Festus: *jumps and points at Coral* 🎶Can't you hear my heart beat so, I can't let you go, Want you in my life🎶

*Synchronized Shuffle Dancing Ensues*

Jessup: Why are they singing?!

Coral: Those dance moves though!🤣

Marcus: Can’t I have one normal day?!

Lucy Gray: Shhhh! I wanna watch them dance!

Prof.Sickle: Lol. I’m recording this.

Lucky: You know we’re broadcasting this LIVE on TV, right?

Lysistrata: *kicks her way to the front* 🎶Your arms are my castle, Your heart is my sky, They wipe away tears that I cry🎶

Vipsania: *Pretends to cry* 🎶The good and the bad times, We've been through them all, You make me rise when I fall🎶

Gaius: *Backflips for no reason*

Diana: *Slides to the front* 🎶Cause every time we touch, I get this feeling, And every time we kiss, I swear I can fly🎶

Florus: *Points at a random Peacekeeper* 🎶Can't you feel my heart beat fast, I want this to last, Need you by my side🎶

Casca: *Runs in* Who the f*ck allowed them to sing?!😱

Prof.Sickle: I thought this was your idea.😏

Treech: Is this even part of the program?

Lucy Gray: Shut it, Treech! We’re getting to the good part!

Hilarius: *Moonwalks to the front* 🎶Cause every time we touch, I feel this static, And every time we kiss, I reach for the sky🎶

Livia: *Diva mode* 🎶Can't you hear my heart beat so, I can't let you go, Want you in my life🎶

Felix: *Stops music* So what do you think?😀

Reaper: Is it too late to drive back to the zoo?!😫

Facet: Do another one!

Circ: Was that recorded?!

Lucy Gray: Can somebody give me a copy of their performance?🥺

Coral: I hope my District saw that!

Lucky: I think all of Panem saw that.

Marcus: You don’t say.😒

Casca: Goodbye, farewell, my pristine reputation!😭🔪

Teslee: Can they sing ✨Barbie Girl✨ next?😀

[starlighthan]

SHOWSTOPPER — PART ONE.

pairings: non-idol!minho and gender-neutral!reader

genre: fluff, angst, enemies/academic rivals to lovers, fake dating au, university au

warnings: a kiss without consent, curse words, physical harassment, mentions of murder and violence, and minho being confusing ! :’D

word count: 11k words (WOW that’s a lot, and that’s just the first part help)

synopsis: minho really wanted to get his ex back by fake dating you, but why were you an obstacle in this plan of his?

tag list: @awooghan @hwangsify @cosmic-railwayxo​

song inspos: 121u - day6, valentine - 5 seconds of summer, everything has changed - taylor swift & ed sheeran, best song - young k

note: i have returned... with a long cliché and cheesy fic, for the first time!!! this is an entry for @hiraya-m’s movie night! this fic is inspired by the movie, she’s dating the gangster, so expect a lot of parts similar to some scenes in the film! this has a ton of time skips (which i think are somehow essential for the fic lol), and this is my first time writing a long fic, so this could be fast-paced or something :’D bear with me in this fic pls i’m not sure if some of you all are fine with cliché content, i really tried to mirror the vibe of the movie at some point! i was thinking of posting this after the WHOLE fic is done but the 11k’s been sitting here for 6+ months (which is why the writing’s kinda shit plz), so here you go!

© starlighthan - all rights reserved. please do not copy, translate, modify, repost, or claim as yours.

Lately, everything felt so unreal. And what did you do for the whole day? Pretend that the relationship you got yourself was nothing. 

It’s working. 

You feel the quick rush of the wind on your face. “Were you not kidding when you texted me? Why didn’t you tell me about this sooner?” Dahyun ran to you to bombard you with questions about a piece of particular news you just shared with her. You let the word spread before telling your friends about it after they heard such an unexpected update about you.

“Keep it quiet. I’ll tell you all about it if you keep your voice down,” you quickly covered the mouth of the girl in front of you. After that rough move, you dragged her to the seat beside you and fixed her messy hair. 

“There you go,” you tried to smile. Dahyun looks… not that bad. “Alright, I’m not! We’re just doing this for his ex. And it’s been just a few days, Dahyun! I don’t want everybody to know right away.”

Dahyun snorted, moving her head away from you. Her assumptions were correct. There was no way that you’d date Lee Minho. You’re “out of his league”, and you two are secretly enemies.

Not only does he tease you every second, but almost every class is also a competition. You’ll never forget how he was petty over the fact that he got a perfect score in the machine project first just because he scheduled his demo earlier than you. You could’ve rejoiced since the two of you were the only ones who got a perfect score in your class, but no. Minho decided to use his bragging rights because of that demo appointment unnecessarily. You were too nervous to demo right after the deadline; that was it!

When you stepped into the computer lab earlier this morning, you immediately heard your classmates close to Minho talking about your relationship. They’re right, though. Who would date a new person just a few days after he and his ex broke up? You’re right. It’s Minho—he gave out that kind of vibe.

Sighing and shaking your head, you cross your arms. “You need time to process and laugh over that, Kim? He’s an annoying ass. Who would fall for him?” You know that anybody would. That dude’s not only smart but also attractive: a consistent dean’s lister,  a volleyball varsity player, and a nice guy. You’re the only person he’s not friendly to.

“Anybody would. Minho is a pretty cool guy,” someone joined in your conversation. That was the only answer, as expected. 

Chaeyoung gets a chair from your other side and places it in front of you and Dahyun. “I heard it, by the way, _____. Dahyun told me. Minho choosing you just to get his ex back totally makes sense. You hate him, and he hates you. Hell, even his ex hates you! That woman would take him back in a flash if she sees you with him.”

You recall the last encounter you had before confirming the relationship. You snort, “The funny thing is that that was not how he approached me and told me his problem.”

“Both of you avoid each other like the plague. Yeah, Minho would never ask you to fake date him all of a sudden—” Dahyun cut her off by hitting her arm. Chaeyoung groans, holding her arm tight. “Just tell us!”

I’m really sorry.

Is this the person who accidentally bumped you yesterday? You had to go home with a coffee stain on your white shirt. It might be him because you have no idea who he was, and you’re sure you don’t have his number.

I still love you.

“You just received a message, right? Why is that person flooding you right when you’re in class?” Yeji moves her seat closer to you, peeking at the phone in your hands. “You gotta hurry, though. You know our professor wants some peace in group activities.”

I miss you so much.

Who even is this?

In case you lost my number, it’s 09*********.

“_____, do you mind turning your phone off, even just for an hour?”

I know that you’re really happy with him, but I want to see you.

Shit, your professor’s glaring at you. Yeji takes your phone and does the work. “Just power off!”

Unconsciously scratching your head, you apologize, “I’m so sorry, Ma’am. That was a lot of spam messages.”

“Learn how to mute your phone next time.” You nodded right away and said yes. Oh, you’re so done. You’re the teacher’s pet in this class; you might’ve lost it because of these messages.

What’s weird is that it goes on even the next few days after. You still receive messages. While in the canteen, you lightly monitor the phone in front of you as you work on assignments. The truth is, you’re looking after every message and call made by this person. Even if you muted this number, you wonder if they will stop soon.

“I don’t understand that. What the hell is that?”

“That’s called math, you dumbass!”

“Sorry! I’m not in a computer-related degree like _____!”

“So am I, Chaeyoung!”

Grunting, you go back to flipping the notes in your notebook. You are already not in the mood to look at the messages and calls from your phone right now. The deadline for this assignment is less than an hour, and you’re unfortunately procrastinating.

The phone rings loudly, mixing with the noise made by your surroundings. The stoves from every stall sizzle very loud, the laughs students can’t hold in, and utensils and plates are clacking here and there. It was too overwhelming until you just wanted to get out of here. But you have got to eat, you still have two more classes later, and you’ll have no time to eat.

As your phone's ringing ends, it returns just a minute later. This cycle has repeatedly happened for the past twenty minutes, and you don’t give a damn about it now. 

You quickly look at the surrounding people. The table at the center of the room was Minho and his friends. Felix and Chan are members of the volleyball varsity. From what you know, they’re the only close friends Minho has in computer science. His other friends, like Seungmin, Changbin, and Jisung, are taking different degrees, and you are coincidentally friends with them too. That’s all because of Yeji.

Minho, Chan, and Felix are the popular ones. Being a varsity team member equals a big following from the student population. The yearly championships are like a tradition; everybody attends that every year. So, as expected, they’ll sincerely support their alma mater’s team.

You admit that they’re very skilled players. Minho’s the best at serving, Felix can receive the ball right away with his speed, and Chan can block so well because of how high he can jump. In conclusion, the team’s weak without them.

You felt a hand on your shoulder and looked at your side immediately. “Are you aware that you’ve been staring at Minho and his friends? And Minho’s looking back at you? With a phone in his hand?”

Widening your eyes, you pretend to be working on your assignment again. Hopefully, none of them will bother you. More like you hope Minho will not bother you. Chan and Felix are not menacing, like Minho. 

You’re getting out of here. You ate your meal anyway, and all you have left is your assignment. Just go to the library as if nothing happened, and you can avoid Lee Minho for the rest of the day.

Packing up your things, you tell your friends that you’re leaving. “What? _____, don’t leave us here!”

“Dahyun, I feel embarrassed. I don’t want him to come here and make fun of me. He’s going to be egoistic all over again. I’ll just go to the library so nobody can ruin my day.”

As you quickly get out of the canteen and walk down the hallways, you feel a pull on your arm. “What are you doing—”

“Are you seriously playing with me right now?

Minho gets to scroll down your call history and all the messages he sent. Breathing loudly through his nose and clenching his teeth, he asks you another question, cornering you between the lockers and the wall. “Are you playing with me right now so I could look stupid?”

Unable to form a coherent answer, you try to speak whatever you can say, which is nothing. “Uh, well, you know, I really—”

His soft lips cut you off, leaving you widening your eyes for the nth time today.

“He kissed you?” 

“Don’t tell me that’s real.”

You thrash around in your seat. “Let me continue!”

Still confused over the sudden turn of events, all you did was move your arms around in your place. Unfortunately, you can’t even take a step or stand tall because Minho still caged you in his arms. 

His head moves to ask you near your ear, “Where is she?”

You don’t answer his question and push him off. The more you pushed him, the more he kept you in his arms. You do not know how weird this feels. He does not have any idea what personal space is. You try to complain louder; all he does is cover your mouth. You want to scream at his face, but you end up sounding muffled to him.

“Answer me, _____. And I’ll let you go,” he slowly moves his hand from your mouth.

“Do you mind telling me who’s that she first?”

Rolling his eyes, he finally steps away from you just a little. “My ex, Ara, of course. Who else would I mention?”

“I don’t know, a classmate or something? But yeah, Ara passed by earlier. She’s gone now.”

Heaven finally hearing your prayers, Minho lets go of you and steps away. You clear your throat. “Thank you. It was suffocating there in the corner.”

You thought he was going to leave you there already. You thought you could go to the library in peace after encountering the worst situation in mind. The worst of the worst came to you at this moment. 

“From now on, we’re in a relationship—”

You step forward and raise your hand. “Who says we can be in a relationship?”

Minho tilts his head and smiles. “Why don’t you let me finish first before you react? We will do this to make Ara jealous and get her back. We’ll just pretend.”

This teasing asshole strikes again. You shake your head. “Why me? You could’ve picked someone better.”

“Oh, don’t worry. You’re the perfect fit. Remember this?” He shows you your phone in his hands. “You played me. Getting into this fake relationship is your way of paying me back.”

Minho hands you back your phone in your hands. Before leaving, he greets you with his classic smirk, making your blood boil. “See you around, love!”

“Chaeyoung, please tell me that _____ is hallucinating.”

Groaning, you shook her shoulders. “It’s real, Dahyun! He even introduced himself to my family earlier this morning already.”

Chaeyoung snickers. “This whole fake relationship sounds like torture.”

Your relationship barely started, and it’s not what you wanted. Even if some part of you liked this so you could see annoying Ara’s face, you know there will be regrets in involving yourself. Not only were students gossiping about you, but Minho’s friends also started teasing you. Felix is a sweetheart, but he had the guts to bug you about your relationship in your last class. Before you left the canteen alone, you found Jisung and Changbin asking you how your fling with Minho was, and you just pushed them away. You wanted none of this.

You take a bite of your sandwich. “Yeah, it is. I hope I get to see Ara pissed off at me so she can take Minho back, and I’ll be over with this deal.”

“Praying that Minho doesn’t treat you like shit, as usual. Maybe a teeny-tiny nicer than he normally is with you,” Dahyun steals the sandwich in your hands and takes a bite. “He is your boyfriend, after all. He must treat you well.”

“You have a distorted view of a couple. This relationship is not a one-sided thing. I, unfortunately, have to be friendly with Minho too, which is irritating.” You get your sandwich back, take a bite, and return it to Dahyun. “It’s all yours.”

You’ll have your next class in less than 30 minutes. Coming to class last minute is stressful sometimes, considering that you’ll do not know how long you can arrive at your classroom. There will be a crowd of students in the halls, especially when classes start again, like what will happen later.

“I’ll go now. The building’s two blocks from here,” you grab your bag and recheck your two friends. “I’ll be fine with him, don’t worry! Don’t give me those sad faces!” You pat both of their heads and push back your chair to the table. “I’ll be fine. I’m used to that.”

Walking past many people in the hallways, you felt more space around you as… Minho’s friends surrounded you? Your first few days with him were not like this.

“What are you guys doing here? Aren’t some of you supposed to be in the other building?” You looked around, seeing all of them walking near you.

Chan was the first to speak. “Honestly, we have no place to speak about this, _____.”

The one and only Lee Minho greeted you, who walked quickly to your side. “From now on, you’re not going to class alone.” 

Not sure if he was joking, but you spoke your mind. “I can do this on my own, and I don’t need you guys joining me here.”

Before you argue more about it, Minho hands you a t-shirt. “Wear this.”

You look at your outfit for the day. “Does this shirt look that bad to you?”

Minho doesn’t answer your question, so you bombard him with more questions to get him on his nerves and say something. “Don’t I look nice? Isn’t this decent enough for me to stand beside you? Does this not fit your standards?”

Minho presses his lips and asks. “Do you want me to put that shirt on you?”

His friends around you stopped and let out some oohs. You sighed. You knew this was a bad idea.

“Change,” Minho moves his head toward the comfort room, “I’ll be waiting.”

You came out with a t-shirt with a large heart in the center. It has additional details like stitches, making the heart look like it was sewn. This shirt, in particular, is not your style, but this would suffice. “Do I look better now?”

Minho takes off his sweater and reveals a matching shirt. Oh, so that’s what he’s aiming for today. Couple t-shirts, cute, I guess? Impressed enough, you smiled at him. He smiles and gives you his hand, silently asking you to hold it with yours.

Walking around, hands tied still, with his friends, you saw Ara and her friend walking towards you. Now, this made more sense. The couple t-shirts were your first stunt to make Ara jealous.

“Didn’t work, Minho. It looks like Ara’s not affected by it,” you hear Seungmin behind you.

“That’s fine. It’s still the first,” Minho stops, leaving the rest of the group to stop. “I’ll leave it here. I’ll take them somewhere. You guys can do your own thing now.”

“Good luck, bro,” Jisung says, offering Minho a fistbump. He looks at you and whispers, “You can do it. He’s tolerable enough without us too.”

“I heard that!” Minho attempts to pinch Jisung. Hearing a loud screech from Jisung, you step away from the small scene. Jisung was pulled by Changbin, dragging him away from both of you.

Once Jisung is out of the picture, Minho faces you. He doesn’t have any idea where to take you since he only thought of the couple t-shirts to show it off to his ex. A part of him feels bad about dragging you into this short stunt.

“I know where to take you.”

In the sports building, obviously. You both bought some taho on the way, though. More like, Minho paid for both of your taho, which was surprising.

“You know how to play table tennis?” He asks as he drags you to a room.

“Nope, I hope you wouldn’t judge,” you tell him, trying to grip the paddle properly.

Minho was going to comment about it, but he stopped himself right away and understood you. “All good. That’s fine with me. I can teach you.”

It felt like your eyes were sparkling out of wonder. You immediately look at Minho and ask, “Really? You’re willing to?”

He genuinely smiles at you and answers, “Yeah, I’m willing. No worries, I think you’ll get the hang of this right away.”

“Which is easier, table tennis or volleyball?” You hand him the paddle in your hand. “You’re pretty good with anything at this point.”

Minho felt his body tense on the spot. That was the first time you said something nice to him. He’s used to bickering with you. Were you serious about this too? It seemed like you were being nice to him for real this time.

He knows you’re a good person. This whole enemy and competitor thing happened between you, resulting in you excluding him from your people-to-be-nice-with list. He has seen you with other people, and you’re usually like how you behaved just a while ago. 

He’s glad enough that you could let your guard down around him for once. Maybe he’ll treasure this even if it was too early. He knows you’ll be back to arguing soon.

“Uh, it depends, really. I’m more used to volleyball, though. I just play table tennis for fun since I hang around here in the sports building quite a lot,” he awkwardly gets the paddle from your hand. With a scratch on his head, he reminds himself of his manners. “Thanks, though. I’m not an expert at everything. I just like trying out new things.”

“We must be the same, then!” You hold the ball, playing it with your hand. “You know, I grew up people saying I’m smart at everything,” you look at him.

Minho agrees. He notices that you’re brilliant about a lot of things. You’re a dean’s lister like him. Sometimes, he thinks you’re one of the best out there. He just doesn’t confess about that. “You in computer science say a lot about that. You’re intelligent.”

You laugh, memories flooding back in your head when you hear Minho mention your degree. “Did you know how stupid I felt when I failed my first programming course? Maybe I blame my professor for that. But when I discovered I got a failing grade, I asked myself for days if computer science was for me.”

Snorting, you shake your head. “As expected, I had to take it the next semester, and there we go! I did very well! I passed, and I enjoyed programming. And yeah, I got the same score as you on our machine project in discrete mathematics.” You hand him the ball. You felt a little better that you brought that out now. Your friends never understood how hard it was for you since they’re not in the same degree as you.

“I realized I’ll do great if I have to work my ass off twice as much as I usually do. It sucks, but it’s fulfilling to know that I’m doing fine.” You look at Minho. “I’m still surprised that I’m still a part of the dean’s list. The last time I heard, I almost slipped off the list.”

“I’m not good at consoling, _____, but I know you’re doing great, whether you fail, pass, or get on the list.” You hear Minho mutter your name, “I know it was hard for you. You said all of it. But I hope you don’t use it to bring yourself down.”

Minho gently places the paddle on the table and gets the ball from your palm. He faces you, leaning on his side on the table. “You’re outstanding. Don’t think that you’re not that good compared to me. I also went through a lot to get into that volleyball team. All of us really have to deal with rough shit before getting up there.”

You chuckle. “You’re right, sorry. I made it sound like it’s all about me—”

“No worries, I totally get you anyway,” he pats your back and smirks. “I know it feels nice to dump your problems sometimes.”

Gasping, you lightly push him. You get to hear his laugh. “I did not intend to dump all of it, Lee! I said I’m sorry already!”

You see Minho change his behavior, returning to his usual, insufferable self. He blinks multiple times, fixes his shirt, gets the paddle again, and playfully waves it on your face. “Shall we?”

You nod. Minho nods back and walks to your back. He gets your hand from behind and helps you grip the paddle properly. “You can hold the paddle like that. Don’t hold it like you’re going to murder somebody.”

“Does it look like I can murder you with this paddle, Minho?” You look at him, raising your eyebrows.

He grips your hand tightly, making you groan. “Yes, I know you can, which is why I’m teaching you the right way how to hold it.”

Minho’s aware of the presence of Ara in the room. It was why his demeanor changed right away. “She’s there again, by the way. Let’s look decent for a bit.”

“Yes, sir, on it.” You look at your hand with the paddle. It feels weird because it’s your first time playing this sport. Minho lets go of you confusingly and walks away.

Minho returns to your side with the other paddle and a ball. As Minho explains how to serve the ball, you focus on Ara. You hope that she’ll see this whole thing. 

“Are you even listening?”

You look back at him, his face filled with annoyance, “Yes—well, no. Ara saw us!” You see Ara and her friends leaving suddenly, “And now, she’s gone. Why is she leaving right away every time we're together?”

He sighs. “She might’ve seen how dramatic you are every time you’re with me. It’s great.”

Before you get to defend yourself, you see Minho leaving you as well. “Dang, Minho’s right. It must be a me problem.” You get your things and chase Minho. “Don’t leave me, Lee! What the hell? You brought me here, and you’re just going to get out of here on your own?”

You tried to find Minho, but he’s really gone. Slowly walking through the tiny sidewalk, you attempt to see if Minho’s still nearby. And as expected, he’s nowhere to be seen. 

Mindlessly walking, you plug in your earphones and listen to music on your way home. The music was a great way to make your life less boring. Your life has been full of adventures; the music made it more entertaining. Who knew getting a fake boyfriend was a part of your story, anyway? It could’ve been more. You get to enjoy your non-curricular activities, like being in organizations. Unfortunately, you temporarily abandoned your book club for this relationship. You could’ve recommended books to first-year students! You could’ve exchanged books with your friends and read them overnight!

You move the papers and folders under your arm to check the time on your phone, 7:05 PM. Great, you’ll have less time to review for your exams later. You could’ve gotten a tricycle ride to get home quicker, but the terminal’s a few minutes from where you are. Groaning, you carelessly walk and grumble over your cravings for pancit canton—the chilimansi one, to be specific.

The louder you talked to yourself about how desperate you were to get home and get things done, the more people behind you knew what to do.

You shrieked at the sudden noise coming from your back. Everything was so fast; you didn’t know a bunch of those mean and nasty students honked their car and almost ran it over you intentionally, dropping all of your things out of shock.

Several kids shouted from the car, “Sorry!” And all of them laughed. If only they were out of the vehicle, you could’ve charged them and punched all of their faces. That would be no regret, even if you were never the type to fight people. They deserve it for being assholes.

Bending down, you try to chase for the papers, lightly flying above the road. They almost crashed a human being and drove recklessly. Why are there no police officers here?

“Didn’t those people skip GMRC or homeroom classes when they were young?”

You have no idea who that was, but you agree. That must be a stranger passing by, not caring about what happened to you. “Yeah, they probably skipped. Not surprised, though. There’ll always be people like them.”

You heard some sounds nearby while picking up all of your notes. Unexpectedly, you see a person getting your papers on the sidewalk across from you. Was this guy the one who just talked to you?

“You’re right. But that doesn’t mean you’ll let them roam around like that. Here you go.” The person hands you the rest of the papers you couldn’t catch earlier. After thanking him. He introduces himself to you, “I’m Hyunjin.”

You have never heard his name yet. You’re acquainted with many students because of connections, but you probably haven’t met this one. It’s not wrong to meet a new person. Meeting a new friend after an unexpected accident like this was funny enough to think that you must be friends with Hyunjin. “Hey, Hyunjin. I’m _____. Nice to meet you in this way,” you chuckled.

He’s a transferee, perhaps?

He grins, “Oh, no worries. I have nothing to do, and I’m also on my way home, anyway. Is your place nearby?”

When Hyunjin saw your mouth fall open and rock your feet in place, he knew you still had a long way to go. “Want to grab some dinner first? Let’s eat pares, my treat.”

None of you know that those students who sped past you were watching nearby. Unfortunately, they have a plan against you.

Are you really up for volleyball class this early? No.

This sport shouldn’t sound complicated since you’ve played this before in high school. Frankly, you’re not the worst player out there. You could be very useful for an actual volleyball team, according to several varsity team members who were your classmates.

Have you told your boyfriend who excels in this specific sport? No.

You’re nothing compared to him in volleyball, you just know. If you mention this to him, he might ask you to play with him on the spot, and you know it’ll end up in the loser treating the winner. That’s how he competes with his teammates in training, according to Felix. You don’t want to go home physically exhausted and suffering financially.

Well, you’re a little rusty in volleyball since it has been years since you properly played this. So, you might need extra warm-ups and practices for this friend.

Setting the ball for a few rounds now, you wouldn’t say you’re that bad for starters. You’re underestimating yourself. This progress is pretty good for someone who’s a newbie or needs a refresher. Okay, maybe, you can brag about this to Minho a little bit.

It was fun and all, until someone threw the ball in a different direction—directly on your head. Why is existing more challenging now when you got Minho with you? Peace is non-existent in your fate.

“How ambitious of you!”

Automatically falling into a face of confusion, your search for the voice leads to a familiar face—that girl in the car a few nights ago.

Let’s be honest. Self-defense is your biggest weakness. You never taught yourself to fight for yourself in situations as immediately intense as this, since you always want no harm. If this was a verbal argument, maybe you still had the guts to fight back. But this involves physical damage.

Before you get to fend for yourself, the girl and the rest of the group throw all the volleyballs at you, leaving you a pained mess on the floor. This is you against a group. You immediately knew you’d lose in this battle. Not only were you thrown with actual objects, but they also threw unnecessary words at you.

“You’re such a gold digger!”

“You’re from nowhere! How did you get them?”

“Two-timer, are we getting a little flirty?”

When you knew this was about Minho and Hyunjin (who should be innocent in this case), you had to get out of here. You’re assuming their next move will harass you with their own hands based on how they move. Groaning, you get up and grab your bags from the bleachers.

One of them shouts, “Where do you think you’re going?”

You look behind and see the girl chase you until you leave the building. She stops before heading back inside. “Wake up, _____! You and Minho are not compatible!”

Same place, same people. The same road where nothing was by your side. The same street where you were so helpless. All you wanted was the life you had a week ago. How did you get into this torturous cycle of people getting jealous of bagging one of the biggest stars of the university?

That was pure evil. Why are they this mean towards you? Maybe all you want is to go back to your dorm, sulk and cry with some ice cream. Hopefully, the world will be better one tear at a time. 

Another honking sound surprised you, reminding you of last night's turn of events. Irritated by the sound, you asked nobody and continued walking, “Why do drivers like to surprise people with that?” 

The car behind you stops. “And that’s because I’m here to really surprise you with—wait, _____, are you crying?”

Minho gets out of the car and chases you to greet you with a hug. “What happened?”

Melting into his embrace, you hummed on his chest, sobbing more than before. This is officially your first time breaking down in front of him, and it’s all because of him. “Nothing really. Can you just take me to my dorm and—”

Minho smoothly rubs your back, “Don’t hide it from me. I know this is all pretend, but don’t be afraid to share it with me if you like. I’m all ears, _____.”

That might’ve made you cry even more. Why is he so nice again? You know he’ll switch back to his usual self later on. Are you falling for this trap? Are you sure he is genuinely willing to listen to your rant about jealous students? Will that be a sensible conversation with him?

“It will sound so petty, Minho. This is nothing I’m telling you—”

He gently holds your head, ensuring you keep eye contact with him. “_____, let’s be serious here. Is it petty if you’re a crying mess like this?” 

Shaking your head, you mumble no multiple times, bringing you back to tears. Minho brings you back to his arms, crossing them around you in the right fit, not too tight and not too loose. His scent was so comforting—lavender and baby powder. He smelled so pure and clean. “Do you still want to return to your dorm?” He asked you softly, hearing a small yes as an answer.

What are you doing to him? Barely two weeks into this fake relationship, and he’s willing enough to soften his heart already. He will stick with you, making sure that you did the stunts, and you got to treat each other as actual significant others. But wasn’t he like this with Ara, too? Didn’t he open up to her right away? Maybe he’ll just see what’s going to happen next. Give you both a few more weeks before facing the growing tingling feeling on his chest. You’re not that bad after all; indeed, you’re better than you seem. He’s up with making you his actual friend. He’s aware that he’s guarding his heart sometimes, knowing he grows attachments immediately. Maybe after a few more stunts, he’ll get Ara back and get to know you more.

Minho reaches for your hand on the side, pulling you to the car. “I should’ve stayed by your side on our last visit to the sports building. I’m really sorry.”

He didn’t break his promise of staying by your side until that night. Maybe it was because of the feeling that he couldn’t do the stunt with you properly, or he wasn’t in the right mind. When he left you in the sports building, he thought you were behind him all this time until when he got into his car. He even tried to find you in the building, going through the floor by floor, until you messaged you were back in your dorm already, stomach full. Out of pure concern, he was relieved that you were safe. He knows that both his and your parents will kill him if he loses you.

And now, he arrived slightly late. He could’ve prevented the still-unknown problem that left you gripping his shirt tightly and sobbing heavily on his shoulder. Better late than never, he thought. He knows how to deal with this. He lost Ara somewhere when they were together. Ara’s phone was dead, and Minho searched for her from night until the day. In the end, he got scolded by Ara’s father in front of their house. He doesn’t want that to happen to anybody again, and he hated he left someone—you—after that.

“It’s fine, Minho. You don’t have to apologize. I should have protected myself,” you told him, getting into the passenger seat of his car and buckling your seatbelt.

After Minho got into the car again and started the engine, he curiously asked, “What happened there? Who are they to make you cry a river like that?”

“Why did you cry?” Minho glances at you, steering the car. “I just want to know so I can help you somehow. I don’t want to see your puffy face cry that much.”

Sighing, you lean back in your seat. Do you really have to tell Minho now? You’d rather keep this one. You don’t want him teasing you all over again. “You have to ask me right now?”

“Yeah, well, if it’s fine with you,” he eyes the car's rear mirror, “because if you’re not ready to tell me, I can wait.”

You thank the heavens that he has patience within him. Maybe you can do it once you’re back in your dorm? Saying it here and now might be a little overwhelming, for you are still recovering from whatever happened earlier. If you recall all of it, you might burst into tears just to explain it to Minho for the nth time. 

When you arrive at your building, you bring Minho to your dorm room when you come to your building. No one’s in your place. Yeji probably hung out with some of her friends today. “Home, sweet home, I guess?”

On the left, a kitchen countertop matches the color of the walls, white. The bathroom’s already on the right, with a door open, displaying the simple sink and mirror. And further back to the dorm are your beds and study spaces. The room isn’t that cramped for everything you need, luckily. Your beds were on one side, and your tables and shelves were across them. 

The first thing you did after closing the door was drop your lumpiang togue on your table. Minho was compassionate enough once again to treat you to some food.

He scans the whole market for anything you can eat quickly. Glancing at you, he asks, “You like lumpiang togue?”

Did he just read your mind? How did he know your love for lumpiang togue?

“Yeah, I like them,” you softly answer, fiddling the sleeves of your white t-shirt, which you wore earlier this morning for volleyball class. You haven’t changed your attire, also still wearing your rubber shoes and navy jogging pants.

Minho sighs. “Great, that’s what I can afford for now. I left the rest of my money in my place.” He finds some bills in his pockets. He was planning to take you to his dorm since Seungmin visited his family. But the whole you-crying-on-the-streets happened, so he had a change of plan, making you feel better. Seriously, it’s not his strength, but he’s willing to try.

You hold his wrist, stopping him from reaching for any money, “I can pay. I have some money with me.” Minho stiffens, and you try to get your wallet from your backpack, mumbling, “You probably brought anything barely to buy here. I’ll just take it from here.”

He was persistent in treating you today. He had to do it. He wanted to do it. Shaking his head, he’s now the one who’ll reach for your wrist. “No, _____. I’ll pay. You can keep your money.”

Looking at his face, you feel hesitant to let this slide. You think it’s because of the lack of money in his pockets, and he’s really trying hard to be the perfect (fake) boyfriend he is. But the problem is that you only hear some clinking sound from his pockets, implying that he probably has mostly coins. And he might just fight you back if you don’t surrender. Maybe he’s really striving to treat you again.

You clear your throat. “Yeah, sure, go on. If you really want to, then. I’ll just do it the next time we eat outside.”

Perhaps Minho only heard the last few words. I’ll just do it the next time we eat outside. Are you implying that you guys will go out again for food? With this setup you have, Minho was not sure if there’ll be a next time for everything. It’s unclear to assume how long you will continue this. Even if it has been a week, Ara could take him back tomorrow or the other day.

This could be the last time you can eat together. Why did he feel a little heartbroken over this thought? Is it because he got to see more of your softer side? Is it because of this little friendship you were progressively growing that is still as small as a seed? Maybe he wasn’t ready to go back to the usual bickering both of you do. He genuinely enjoyed your fun and calmer side. In the first few days, you got to go around the campus hand in hand. It was initially awkward. Both of your hands were sweating. But he enjoyed your presence, regardless. You got to treat each other decently in classes, picking each other immediately as partners in some projects. Why is he overthinking about you too many times now? He’ll miss this. It’s been a week, and he might’ve not regretted picking you. It could’ve been worse if he had got someone senselessly crazy over him.

On your side, though, you’re taking this whole fake relationship lightly. Yes, you got to see an angelic Minho with a halo on his head rather than those red horns. You’ve seen his side of being intelligent and humble. From your time together working on some papers, you’ve seen how hardworking he is. Well, he is hardworking, but his tremendous pride overshadows it. Working with him wasn’t so bad. If you ever get to pick a partner after this fake relationship, you might genuinely pick him over some of your friends. You appreciated his taste on the first few dates you had. He wasn’t the fancy type, even if he looked like a person who thought highly of himself. Your time in the park wasn’t so bad. You enjoyed the messy conversation with some ice cream. You also enjoyed your time in the mall. He was the type to window shop than splurge. You were going to tease him about being broke, but he was letting his guard down for a few minutes, so you appreciated the small moment of peace between the two of you.

Nodding, he steps forward to buy on the stall in front of you.

Leaning your back on the table beside him, you ask, “Have anything to say about my place?” Deep inside, you know he will lightly tease you about your dorm. It’s been looking too dull, considering the only prominent color: white. You could visit some of your friend’s places, and their homes and rooms were full of color. You got to see Dahyun’s place, and her room’s walls painted a beautiful shade of sky blue. Chaeyoung’s dorm has an incredible combination of brown and black, giving her space a vintage vibe that suits her style. Some of your other classmates’ rooms had rooms in bright colors like pink, violet, or dandelion, which you admit are very pleasing colors. “Does it look too boring? I was trying to convince Yeji to change this whole place again. White’s not clicking with me anymore.”

Minho looked around once again. He displays an unreadable expression, which makes you feel uncertain. “I guess it is boring. I knew it.” Minho waves his hands. “No! I actually like it. It feels very peaceful,” he sighs. “I think it shows a lot about who you are.”

“So you’re telling me I’m boring?”

Groaning, he explains to you once again. “It’s a nice color for a dorm. It’s not boring. You’re very pure and sincere, like the color white. Even if we spat the most unnecessary words at each other, you’re pretty honest and genuine in what you say. I don’t mean this badly, but you’re sensitive. Sensitive in a way that you easily pull yourself into emotions, you feel quite a lot, from what I noticed. You’re not that numb, and I like it. White’s not that blank in my own eyes.”

That was… wonderful. Minho got a point once again. He’s not like you, who quickly rambles a lot. He makes sure he says everything with his actual intentions straightforwardly. You liked how he mentioned your bickering; it made you laugh for the first time in a while. It was nice to hear that from Minho for another time. “Thanks, maybe the color’s not so bad after all. I appreciate the words.”

“You’re getting shy, aren’t you?” You pulled out your handkerchief from your pocket and tossed it to his face. “Shut up! I don’t get those kinds of words a lot. Being sensitive is a bad thing for some, but I appreciate how you made it sound nice—something in your voice that told me in my head that it’s alright to feel things with so much impact,” you grin, “so, don’t be surprised that I’ll cry over something again in the next few days. We still have the articulation paper! We should get it done! I’ll cry for real if we procrastinate it!”

Minho laughs. “Want to start it tomorrow? After my training in the morning?” It took you a few seconds to answer him because… he laughed! That was a very genuine laugh, and it sounded so lovely. It suits him so much. If only you heard that every day, that’d be better than the fuss both of you make every time. When he scratches his head nervously, you answer, “I’m not that busy for the next few days, so I’m up for that! Maybe I can take you out for coffee if you’re into that?”

You have no idea how Minho loved the word coffee. He drinks coffee every day, almost like his water, so he might’ve been the happiest person ever when he heard that you’d treat his coffee. “I am in love with coffee, so you don’t have to ask, _____,” he smiles. “Great, now that we’ll have coffee tomorrow, I’m sure we’ll finish our paper just fine. Trust me.”

The next few days with Minho were relaxing, much to your surprise. You joined each other’s agendas, including Minho’s training sessions for the incoming volleyball championships. You opened up to him about what happened to you in the sports building, resulting in him getting outrageous on the spur of the moment.

Minho tries to ask calmly after taking a sip of his beloved coffee, “Why didn’t you tell me about this sooner?” He knew you wanted to recover from what happened emotionally, but he didn’t think you had to recover from that, right? 

“I wanted to forget about it for a while, Minho. I didn’t want to spend the rest of my time feeling miserable because of your fans crossing the line,” you answer, taking a bite of Minho’s cheesecake.

Before getting another bite, Minho reaches for your hand, removing the fork. He points the utensil at you, “_____, you just said they crossed the line. Don’t you think you should’ve told me right away still, and we could’ve done something about it?”

“I’m too nice to report it to the office, Minho,” your other hand reaches for his. “I know it’s a problem, but I’m seriously going to let this go. I know I cried over it, but this is not the worst thing I cried over. Maybe knocking some sense to themselves will make them more realistic that you’re not going to pick them.”

Snorting, he laughs and leans back in his seat. “Did you think I’m going to pick them over you?” He was misinterpreting it! You didn’t mean it that way. “Hey! You wouldn’t pick them in general because of how they acted, right? They were violent. Do you want a significant other like that?”

You pulled your hands away from him and stood from your seat. “You—” He cuts you off by holding your hands again, rushing over to the seat beside you, and gently pushing you back on your chair. “Get off of me! You’re twisting my words again!” All he did in response was laugh and hold you loosely. At least he didn’t grip your hands that tight.

“I get you. I get you. Don’t worry! I’m teasing you with good intentions!” He continues to laugh and move his things near you, returning to your side. “Sorry, really, but I understood what you meant. I would rather not have somebody who attacks people with volleyballs.”

Speaking of volleyballs, he remembered one of the things you said while you recalled the whole incident to him. “You said you were setting the volleyball? Didn’t you guys just start learning volleyball? How could you set the ball on your own properly without anybody monitoring? You could’ve squished your head with the volleyball—”

You shushed him, whispering a secret you thought you’d keep from him. “I know how volleyball works, okay? Unlike my other classmates who had no idea how to receive a volleyball, I’ve done it before. But it doesn’t mean I am a professional at it!”

He’d seen you stick your face with books and papers. But you… as an athlete? That’s something new. He never saw you as a type to engage with sports. “And you said I was good at many things, huh? You can also play volleyball! Why don’t you try out for the team too? I know you’ll do great there too!”

Slumping on your seat, you shudder. Minho’s convincing you with something good now, and it doesn’t fit your plans well. “Never saw myself dedicating my life to sports. Even if I say I’m not that bad, I don’t have any plan to spend a lot of time training.”

“I bet you can serve the ball very well like me. Your hand’s so heavy every time you push my head away—okay, I’ll stop!” Minho playfully glares at you. You did push his head away again. Laughing, you tell him, “Stop being so cocky, MVP! We all know you’re good with the sport!” Minho gasps, placing his hand on his chest. “Is _____ really acknowledging my skill in volleyball? That’s such an honor!” He repeatedly bows to you, “Thank you very much, _____. I value your kind words!”

Chuckling, you stop him from bowing, holding onto his built body, “Yeah, whatever, Lee. I just watched you train earlier this morning. You were pretty good.”

And now, you’re back to where it all began, the sports building. You’re facing the same people who had the guts to hurt you. The news of this group expressing their jealousy through volleyballs didn’t go well for Minho’s friends. They had them kneeling on the ground. A crowd surrounded you, implying that many knew about what happened. 

Minho is beside you, snaking his arm around yours. “Do you have anything to say to _____?”

Minho and his friends set this whole thing up? Did they plan this right after you told him what happened?

“None of you are answering,” Changbin shouts, “Say something!” Jisung joins, playing with a volleyball in his hand and giving another to Changbin, “Quickly! Say sorry!”

Oh, these guys are taking it seriously. You did not know this duo could be louder than they could have ever been, and it scares you a little. They’ve been happy and fun most of the time. Their faces scream terror.

The group mumbled sorry a few times, making Minho puzzled at how quiet and short they apologized. “Doesn’t sound sincere to me, right, boys?” His friends agreed, telling the kneeled they should apologize genuinely. 

Changbin and Jisung handed the volleyballs to Minho and passed them to you. “Nobody should hurt the person I love.”

Some of the boys, specifically Chan, Felix, and Jeongin, squealed loudly, getting the attention of Ara nearby. Ara, unfortunately, heard all of it since all the boys’ voices were echoing in the room. She steps into the crowd and watches the whole scene. You, on the other hand, tried to control your feelings. If Minho said that on a typical day, you’d push his head away like you always do. He said this in front of people, many people. You can’t screw the stunt up.

“Hit them on the face, _____!”

“Go _____!”

And they were all chanting your name. Did you want revenge? No. Do you feel these people should learn their lesson by publicly embarrassing them? No. Do they deserve to get harmed the same way as you did? No. You were truly too nice to treat them like this. Even if you were like royalty to Minho and his friends, you’d rather stay back and let things flow like how they’re supposed to. It already happened, and you’d rather keep things that way. You’re sure you don’t want them to go home with bruises. Shaming them wasn’t the way to go for you.

The group assumed you would hit them, so they covered their heads with their arms and whimpered. Minho’s friends still chanted your name to support the payback until you dropped the volleyballs from your hands. Smiling, you didn’t give in and got out of the room by pulling Minho away to the entrance of the building. Minho holds your hand after closing the door for you. 

He stops you from walking down the building’s steps. “You really are too nice for this, _____. I wanted to do something in return for what happened to you.”

Lightly removing his hand from your arms, you roll your eyes. “You mean to bring them back there with volleyballs again for vengeance? Of course not, Minho. It’s so wrong to hit them.” Proceeding with your short trip to his car, Minho follows you behind, not noticing your rolling eyes. “Yeah, keep that bad boy facade. That doesn’t work for me. We’re in a relationship in this deal. If I’m not tolerating violence, then so are you. Let them go, yeah?”

You completely forgot that Minho has the intimidating side that everybody fears. Nobody knows about it except those who’ve seen him retaliate. With those large hands and muscled arms, you knew he could throw a big punch. You’ve seen it. And you know he’s willing to do it if he needs it. Frankly, his throwing punches might be a little attractive to you—whoops.

“Yes, I’ll stop! I’ll stop for you!” Minho raises both arms to his sides, giving in to your request. He knows you mean well, and maybe he needs a little of a change. For the past few days, he hasn’t told you about this yet, but he felt guilty over his teasing of you and all the little competition he started between you two. He began to truly appreciate you, acknowledging that he now considers you his friend, not this weird enemy-slash-competitor like you were before. When his friends asked about you, he was comfortable enough to mention you without cringing by simply thinking about you as he did back then. Minho cared for your thoughts and feelings, only occasionally inserting the teasing when he felt he needed it, which is still all the time, minus the intention of making you push his head away. He doesn’t want to get headaches anymore.

You stay still, the tips of your fingers on his car’s door handle. Will Minho truly stop for you? Well, he has been honest with you for the whole time in this deal. Maybe he felt how uncertain you were about what you could’ve done to the group earlier? If yes, thank the heavens he did; you seriously didn’t want to hurt anybody. “Alright, then. Let’s just go somewhere else.”

“How about the seaside near the mall in the other city?” You blinked after he delicately pulled your hand once again from the door handle. All the touches that happened ruined you, making you feel butterflies every time. The hand-holding, too, was making you flustered every time now. Is it because you brought down the walls against each other now? Were you getting too comfortable about his affections? He might’ve done this to others without making them flustered. 

Minho rose his brows at how unresponsive you were to his touch. He assumed you didn’t get that much sleep before fetching you earlier this morning. After all, you volunteered to proofread your paper before emailing it to your professor. Both of you were on a video call the whole night. Minho was sweet enough to watch you proofread the articulation paper as impressive as you two made. Waving his hand in front of your face, he expressed his confusion about your lack of action. “You good? Did you get to sleep well last night? You were staring at the ground.”

Shaking your head, you answer him right after you get out of your trance. “Yes, I’m fine. Yeah, maybe. I still got the sleep, but it wasn’t the best, to be honest.” You finally got into the car after Minho opened the door for you.

You yell through the window as Minho goes to the driver’s seat. “The seaside’s an excellent choice, by the way!” Minho smiles, satisfied with the idea he just made. He thought of taking you there for some fresh air after a lot of stress and work over the last few days. Dedicatedly working with you day and night made Minho realize how far you’re willing to go just to pass. No, you’re not doing everything just to pass; you wholeheartedly wanted to excel, and that’s what he liked about you. He remembers how you will not let his outline for the paper slide.

“Minho, we have to make this paper detailed. Based on your outline, our paper’s going to be vague. We wouldn’t be able to dig deep into our topic.” You underlined some parts in the outline he attempted to create. “If we have the chance to explain further, then take it. Let’s not take this lightly. The paper is a part of our major requirements for the class.”

Minho didn’t care about this class much since his degree’s technicalities weren’t there. There was no math and programming, so he cared little about his work. Not until you became his partner for this paper. Did he guess he’ll take this more seriously now that you’re with him? 

He mumbled under his breath. “Felix wasn’t kidding when you take every requirement seriously.” You glance up at him, raising your eyebrow. “Felix told you? We were group mates in another class.”

Nodding, he peeks at the pad of paper you were writing on. He meekly answers, “Felix told me you were the leader, and he thought the position fits you. He told me you were ‘artistic’-ish since you always have many ideas in your head.”

“Seems like Felix dropped many things about me to you.” You chuckle. “Was that why you knew much about me before we got into this fake relationship?” 

Since Felix is a good friend, you didn’t expect him to talk about you to Minho. Although, you didn’t expect that he’ll get into detail like that since both of you bond together during classes only. “You got to use them against me.” You mumbled, playfully rolling your eyes. “Thanks for all of the teasing, by the way. I still remember how you embarrassed me about how I messed up my report to my prof last year.”

Minho was going to apologize already since it was the right timing, but you cut him off showing what you wrote on his face. Not the right timing. “Here! I made the outline you made more specific! What do you think? Do you think our paper could be good with this flow?” He grabbed the paper and distanced it from him a little, squinting his eyes.

The outline you made was jaw-dropping for him. He was astounded by how comprehensive your outline was. He wasn’t in the right mind to create a good articulation paper right now with this hell of a topic, so it amazed him how you could plan the critical points necessary for the paper. “You do not know how good this is, _____. This is great!”

In Minho’s head, he declares that you’re one of the most intelligent group mates he has ever encountered. And he found you interesting at that moment—how was your mind this brilliant? Papers like this take him days. It’s not his field of interest, so it consumes a lot of his time. “I don’t even do outlines. This one’s thorough and very impressive. You even pointed out things here that I never thought of!” He uses his ballpen to show them to you, laughing out of wonder. “This is not even the paper, yet you’re surprising me for real.”

“Great! We’ll be on the road for a long time, so buckle up! We’re going to have a nice time!” Minho bashfully grins. That was so adorable. You cannot help but poke his cheek for that. There was something about the glint in his eyes and the bottomless energy spewing out of him. This is a different Minho, a very joyful one, to be exact. When you notice Minho’s ears turn red, you giggle, reaching for his cheek again to pinch. “Your ears are so red! So adorable!”

Minho scratches his head and moves it away, you out of his sight. His hand climbs up to his face, feeling the heat on his face. Smiling, he tries to keep the tension down. “Shut up. I’m just a little excited.” Laughing, you lightly push his shoulder. “And it’s adorable, Minho. I don’t see you get excited quite a lot.”

Grumbling, he pushes your head away, similar to what you usually do to him. With shouts of protest coming from your mouth, he shouts back nonsense to tease your way of resisting. “Why don’t you take a nap first, _____? We have around an hour to go before we arrive at the seaside. If traffic persists, maybe another hour stuck on the road.”

You surrender by slumping your shoulders. “That wouldn’t be so bad, I guess.” Minho smirks and slowly pushes your head to the window. “You spent the whole night worrying about our paper. Take a nap, please. Take this as a little favor from me.” Minho waves his hand up and down as a sign to close your eyes. You whine. “I’m doing a favor right now. Ask me one at a time,” you move around on your seat, getting comfortable, “but I might take that little one. I’ll sleep for a bit.” 

He waits for you to settle down and close your eyes before turning the engine on and starting the trip. When he hears your tiny snores, he unknowingly pats your head, letting out a satisfied sigh from his lips. Minho’s absolutely glad that you gave yourself time to rest. You're unstoppable—he learned something new about your work ethic over the past few days. While working on your paper and other requirements, Minho saw you sit endlessly, writing, typing, reading, and doing everything you could have done to complete the demands. Including no sleep, you barely let your eyes close completely like you always do until Minho ensures you get enough rest. Minho couldn’t believe that you were still so lively despite your normality of barely sleeping. Pretty much like Chan, he thinks. He thought only Chan was capable of doing that.

He takes this as an exchange for your acceptance of this deal he made with you. He thought that helping you in your routine while staying by his side to have you as his boyfriend was a great way to get the chemistry needed for a couple and that heart of yours (to be your friend, obviously). And so far, his plan is working. You’ve been getting comfortable with him, and he’s happy to see you no longer see him as this horrendous human being who’ll ruin your week every time. Plus, his group chat with his friends is flooding his notifications that Ara saw the occasion earlier in the sports building.

jisung: seungmin said ara was staring at both of you earlier!

jisung: it should be working!!!!

felix: i got to see it! she has the usual sad face lol

chan: are you sure you saw her face…?

changbin: you were too busy squealing over minho and _____

felix: JHSFDADJ STOP YOU TWO???

seungmin: LMAOOO felix, you probably forgot that they’re not a real couple, right?

felix: WELL, they *are* a real couple right now so…

felix: and they’re getting along very well!!! have you seen them the other day?

chan: oh, when you guys were talking about the next machine project?

felix: YEAH, the three of us were initially discussing it until they argued what type of loops they were going to use in the program lol

seungmin: so that’s how you define “they’re getting along very well” then?

minho: for the record, it was a peaceful argument, kim seungmin.

seungmin: oh HE’S ALIVE

minho: and we’re not cheating btw, i know talking about the project to others is not allowed lmao we’re just talking about which loop truly fits the mechanics

minho: _____ kept on pushing the exit-controlled loop, but i pointed them out the program should check the conditions first before starting the loop

seungmin: and i barely understand what he’s talking about again

minho: turns out, i misinterpreted the mechanics, and their point really made sense

seungmin: thanks for the tmi bro

felix: WAIT REALLY? i used an entry-controlled loop all this time :’>

felix: so i have to change tons of things in the source code then… DAMMIT

chan: hi minho, where did _____ take you?

minho: we’re leaving

minho: taking them somewhere

minho: and i’m not going to tell any of you where we’re going because i’m going to drive already

minho: goodbye!

jeongin: I JUST CAME BACK FROM MY CLASS

jeongin: MINHO DON’T LEAVE US HANGING HERE

changbin: minho be gatekeeping _____ now what is this

jisung: can anybody run and follow minho’s car?

[yoonia]

For my adaptation of sloth, I’d wanna take inspiration from the lotus eaters from Odyesseus (as well as the casino scene from the Percy Jackson movies/series. Have you ever seen the movies or the series btw?). I think this particular myth (as well as from Percy Jackson) captures the whole essence and theme of sloth perfectly. And again, I don’t think I’ve seen anybody come up with that concept yet. At least not for the deadly sins. I’m debating though whether I wanna cast Yoongi or Jimin as sloth.

If you’re curious why I’m considering casting Jimin as sloth (instead of lust), I just think it’s another one of the sins that would suit him. I remember watching some of their stuff, and the rest of the members tend to talk about (like run bts) of how Jimin had (or has) a tendency to not be on time or arrive late to things. Plus, they’ve stated multiple times how long it takes for Jimin to get ready (or him taking long showers) lol. I also think it would give a touch of irony (to either of the boys), considering how hard-working they both are irl.

So in this story, OC is another average person who lives in the rat race and just lives to work (unfortunately). She might’ve had big dreams at some point, but gave up on them (likely because out of pure laziness and that she didn’t want to do even more work then she already did) Then at some point, OC gets fired, leaving her with almost nothing.

Instead of looking for a new job though, OC just goes “f**k it. I’m taking a vacation”. So when she sees a suspiciously affordable but luxurious casino hotel located in an island (which is owned by Jimin/Yoongi) OC decides to go for it.

So when OC arrives at the hotel, she’s offered some cookies by a waitress that resemble lotus flowers (like in Percy Jackson). Surely enough, OC becomes addicted to them like drugs and doesn’t even think to count how many she ate. From then on, OC forgets her worries by partying in the casino, lounging around in the pool or lazy river, and spending time with Jimin/Yoongi.

But as each day goes by, OC notices at some point that she’s in an endless loophole, where she’s just repeating the same day but forgot any doubt or second thoughts because all the lotus flower cookies she’s eaten. Readers would get confused for sure and might even think that I might’ve accidentally copied and pasted the same paragraphs, but the thing is that’s exactly the whole point. It’s the same thing, day after day.

Like in Percy Jackson, OC doesn’t find out that something’s off until she interacts with someone playing a game, who’s still under the impression that they’re living in the 20th century (like the 80s) instead of the 21st century (the 2020s).

When we learn more about Jimin/Yoongi though, we learn that since they believe there’s (seemingly) no point in trying to get back to heaven, he decided to create an environment where he’ll have all the friends he could have (because loneliness). And since he also gets attached to OC and when he finds out she’s trying to leave, he does whatever it takes to keep her from leaving.

Perhaps making a Yandere Jimin/Yoongi(?) Idk I’m still debating on that because I’m not really a fan of yandere aus but still, it would work so well with this story! Or at least give them yandere elements? If I were to make them yandere though, I don’t think I’d go for the typical crazy sociopathic deranged persona. Instead, I’d make them a lot more calm and calculating who never loose their cool.

Even when OC has the opportunity to escape, she still has second thoughts about going back to her old life where she just lived to work, instead of the other way around. This gives her an epiphany however. OC realizes that what she saw in common was that in both at work and the hotel, she had the same repetitive days with no real enjoyment or meaning in her life. She’s also afraid of facing humiliation like when she lost her job and afraid she’s not good enough. Which is another thing that’s mentioned in the YouTube video I talked about. I’ve considered putting existential crisis themes too. I think for a story like this, it would work well.

Idk exactly yet but I’ve actually considered leaving the ending ambiguous. I’m still torn though because I still wanna end it on a good note and show OC and Jimin/Yoongi. I still would like to show that you can’t just only work or just only lounge around. It’s all about balance (that probably sounds campy though when written in paper lol). It’s something I’d rather show and not tell though (or rather, describe it without making it too obvious if that makes sense).

One thing I’m concerned about is how it might have too many similarities with the greed story. Since as of now, both stories start out with an OC who starts off living an average life but then falls in the rabbit hole of said sins. In the other hand though, I’m not too worried because another way I see it is that even though some of the stories I’m writing out already have parallels, the OCs commit or go about their respective sins differently (if that makes sense?). To be fair though, some of the deadly sins are pretty similar already, like greed and gluttony.

Also, somewhat unrelated, but for my adaptation, I imagine Jimin/Yoongi always speaking in a soft spoken voice, never yelling or raising his voice. When OC tries to escape his hotel though, his speaking comes across more as apathetic or emotionless, since apathy is also associated with sloth.

Also, I forgot to mention from my last messages but I’d like to give them all powers that align with their sins. I haven’t come up with powers for every single one of them yet, but I have some ideas for this story. For Jimin/Yoongi’s powers, I’ve been coming up with concepts of either of them having the ability to hypnotize people with the power of a flute they use. Basically, with this flute, Jimin/Yoongi can put anyone to sleep if they listen to its music (like a siren’s song). I first got this idea after rewatching Narnia a while back (idk if you’re familiar with the movie at all or know what scene I’m talking about)? But it can also drain a person’s will and emotions, and replace it with apathy, the more you resist that is (since apathy is another emotion aligned with the same sin).

Another twist I’d like to do is show that not only are the boys the embodiments of the seven sins, but they’re also the embodiments of the seven heavenly virtues. But because of mistakes they all made in the past, they’re banished to wander around the earth for eternity unless they decide to change.

You know, I've known a lot of fanfic writers who write fantasy stories that started their journey with books and fiction works through Percy Jackson series. I, unfortunately, was not one of them hahaha I did dive into Narnia at some point, though.

For some reason, I can see that Yoongi as Sloth can be quite a predictable to some, so appointing Jimin as Sloth would be a nice twist. He can appear really laidback, so you got a point there. It will be interesting to see a playful Sloth like Jimin. Even if your idea sounds a bit similar to your idea for Greed, I agree that the parallels would make it okay. You can make it seem different through the storytelling and the characters' trait. I love the idea of the repeated timeline/day and narrating it through replicated paragraphs. Stories that can get the readers lost and experiencing what the characters are going through are so much fun. I think it'll work with reader insert fics too since your readers can be as confused and clueless as your OC haha

I think from the idea you shared with Greed, you did insinuate about the characters having magic or special powers aligning with their sins. That would be a good premise and addition to create your fantasy stories and make things more interesting. I've read a webtoon a long time ago about a long battle between seven sins vs. seven virtues which was so good. It would be interesting if you can make the characters dealing with their inner battle where they had to struggle between the good and the bad inside them. Maybe you can make their backstories similar to fallen angels? like they were once representations of good and virtue but ended up falling into the dark side. intrigues like this one can create a wonderful drama for your story.

[horsetailcurlers2]

hi! for the anon asks:

1. how old were you when you first started reading fanfic/engaging in fandom?

2. what’s a hobby you really like to do?

3. favorite piece of media from your youth?

(bonus question if i may, do you make character playlists?)

i hope you have a wonderful rest of your day/night :)

hi! thank u for the asks :)

1. i want to say 10 or 11 but now that i’m thinking about it it might have been closer to eight or nine bc i vividly remember looking for percy jackson quizzes on quotev on the family computer and just happening to stumble across fanfiction for the first time- most of which were about traumatized orphaned self insert characters being taken to camp half blood lol. and i ate it up

2. i’m really into making miniature model kits. i also recently got into cross stitching and i’m really enjoying it so far.

3. percy jackson for sure. i was a greek mythology kid from a young age and one day i asked my fourth grade teacher if she had any greek mythology books in her classroom library and she gave me a copy of the lightning thief and i haven’t been normal since. but also idk if anybody else remembers these but i was DEEPLY obsessed with them- the “my sister the vampire” series.

i do sort of make character playlists but they are all so hyper specific to my weird nebulous headcanons that they don’t actually make any sense unless you have access to my brain lol. and also i kind of have lame taste in music so they’re never as comprehensive as i would like.

[pearblossommina]

ToG Read-A-Long, Empire of Storms, day 11

SOMEHOW I DIDN’T REALIZE HOW CLOSE TO THE END WE ARE. I think it’s because I checked this book out from the library virtually to make it easier to carry with me, and I’ve just been reading on my phone. I pulled out the physical copy to read this morning since it’s my day off, and now I realize this the last 100 pages. The traditional, SJM style, shit-hitting-the-fan smorgasbord.

(Bring it on)

Ch 65

Did anybody else try to pair the gods with their main cast counterpart?

“one that was of sea and sky and storms” Rowan

“one of many shifting voices, both animal and human” Lysandra

“one who saw all with wise, calm eyes” Elide? Or maybe Dorian?

“the one of darkness and death.” Lorcan

“the one with a voice of steel and shields and arrows.” Maybe Gavriel? Or Aedion, I guess?

“The one with three faces” Manon

“The princess whirled, her hunting leathers stained and damp, the gold tips on her braided hair clinking.”

NEHEMIA! I missed you so much, honey!

This isn’t Nehemia though, it’s just an echo, just a memory, but oh, it’s still so good to see her again 😭

Ch 66

“When Aelin and Manon had vanished into that mirror, Dorian suspected it was only Aedion's roaring that had made Rowan snap out of the blood fury he'd descended into. And only the throbbing bruise on Dorian's cheek that made Rowan refrain from giving him a matching one.”

He didn’t know what was about to happen though. Idk. I feel like it was a pretty genius idea, there was no way he could have known shit was about to hit the fan. And that they wouldn’t be back.

(They’re gonna come back, right?)

“Maybe Manon Blackbeak would help her do it. Maybe they'd rule over the ruins together.

He wished he'd had more time to talk to the witch. To get to know her beyond what his body had already learned.”

I wish you did, too, Dorian, but you were too busy being horny! Lol

(I can’t say I blame you)

(Live your best life Dorian)

Ch 67

“Rowan had not possessed an army of his own to give to Aelin. To give to Terrasen.

So he had won an army for her. Through the only things Aelin had claimed were all she wanted from him.

His heart. His loyalty. His friendship.”

Omg, Rowan 🥺

GET YOURSELF A MAN WHO GIVES YOU HIS HEART. HIS LOYALTY. HIS FRIENDSHIP.

That’s how you know. He’s top tier husband material.

If Maeve hurts Elide I’m going to scream.

I’ll riot.

I swear.

Ch 68

It’s so fucking devastating to read about Nehemia, plotting her own very violent death.

That shit was so traumatic.

NEHEMIA. I kind of don’t forgive you? Like, did you even realize? How fucked up it was? To die - so violently - so horrifically - but - you didn’t HAVE TO. Aelin was the one who HAD TO. You gave Elena your death.

And for what!

To traumatize your friend into action!

I hate it. I hate it SO MUCH.

The Elena pulling the strings behind it all reveal here. It’s very unsettling, in a high fantasy kinda way. I like the way it feels, that ultimate pain, ultimate sacrifice, chosen one trope, but I don’t believe for a minute that Alien has to die to save the world.

I know we can find another way to solve this riddle. Maybe that’s why Manon’s here. She’s nameless, too, in a way, since she was disavowed as the Heir to the Blackbeak clan.

Or maybe you can give up your name, symbolically. And then be truly nameless. Maybe you can trick Maeve into giving up her name, and kill two birds with one stone here.

Ch 69

(Nice)

This fighting continues.

ABRAXOS is back! Babyyyyyyy! ILU so much! Thank you for coming back so triumphantly!

Ch 70

It feels so unnatural to stop here

I wanna finish reading!

I wanna know what happens next!

[turbulentscrawl]

Hi hi! Can I get a matchup please? 🩷

You can call me Mae :) I’m Agender and use any pronouns. My sexual orientation is bisexual, and I tend to lean towards guys more recently, but generally don’t have much of a preference.

In terms of personality; I’m really blunt (almost painfully so) and hate sugarcoating ANYTHING- I value honesty most. I’m an INTJ, way more on the introverted side of that, I’m perfectly happy not speaking to anybody for a few days at a time if I need to rest after a long week of talking. I have a strong fear of abandonment and can act pretty immature when expressing these feelings, along with just having childish fears in general

I’m a multi sport athlete and I’m really good at music - things like singing, composing, ect! My other interests are photography (I’m awful at it though lol), drawing and baking. I just got into weightlifting and that is quickly becoming a hobby as well.

One thing I’m the most interested in is what makes a person act the way they are- what differentiates the brains and genetic codes of ordinary people and criminals, geniuses, ect. I plan to go into a medical research type field in order to work on it more.

I think that’s about it, sorry for writing so much! Have a good day/night :)

Thanks for requesting, Mae! I hope you like it <3

I ship you with William Ellis!

-William is a simple guy who can go with the flow and likes direct communication. He enjoys spending Quality Time with his partners, but would be equally happy to entertain himself when you need more space to decompress. Basically, he doesn’t require a ton of special accommodation and is perfectly fine with adapting to your changing needs and social levels.

-You two would likely meet at some sporting event or in the gym. He’s both friendly and competitive, so he could approach you for any number of reasons and strike up a conversation. You can just straight up tell him you’re fed up with talking and he’s like “alright, cool, here’s my number, text me when you wanna talk again ‘k?”

-On that note, he really appreciates your bluntness. It’s hot, actually. He’s pretty blunt himself, and he appreciates not having to keep track of things like subtext or implications. Life is much easier when people just say what’s on their mind and deal with whatever may come from it.

-You two bond over physical activities. He’s down for literally anything, but he especially likes the weight lifting and would love to talk to you about rugby. Did I mention he’s the best hype-man to have at the gym? …unless you hate the attention it brings, then it’s awful and he’ll do his best to whisper-yell instead. He slips occasionally though, sorry.

-He’s not the most romantic guy around, but he is very loyal and supportive. Anything you want to do, you can do. Anything you DO do, you’re great at. No arguments. Does he know anything at all about drawing or photography? No. But that’s not gonna stop him from picking his favorites that you do and demanding for a copy to keep. Some of them are even framed in his apartment.

-There may be some arguments regarding how you express your fear of abandonment—William isn’t the most insightful guy and isn’t likely to see your insecurities bubbling up until they’re bubbling over—but rest assured he doesn’t take those kinds of arguments to heart. He’s a forgiving guy and really only has lasting issues with people being intentionally malicious. You argued? The next day he’s texting you what you want for dinner like it never happened. All is well.

Runner Up: Aesop Carl

[the-firebird69]

1983 George Killian's Irish Red Ad

It's our beer and we came up with the idea and the brew and it's really a nice brew it tastes great and it's a little bit red. Has an additive in it no it's a particular brew process with a particular hop and from a certain area and you really should only make them there and we know where it is and other people have to find out. It is an Irish brew and we do it in Ireland and it does come out red. And it is not South Carolina no it's in the middle area it's a specific spot and people loved it and they would love it again. We're going to reintroduce it but I want to mention that this is an Irish Brew but Americans are considered to be friends because they pretended they were Irish a lot and got a ton of people to do it and we managed to escape. There's a lot of stories that we can tell that we should not. Make fun of beer ads and have them in it and us too and it's gonna be great we're happy to be on board on it it says that's good 'cause you want samples in three days. And I'm sure we're going to get orders before then. And we probably will. Mac daddy and Ben are not in those big beer companies as much as people think and they are getting booze and things like that but it's not their companies they have like 5% share of each but you know just each person. They have other beer companies that they want to start or restart and what we say is it's a different group it's a different area and they don't have a say so and you can do what you want. And he says I'm gonna pick Sam Adams and what we say is it's kind of your area and that's what he's saying there might be other factories but yeah we think that's correct and proper and then Arnold he has approved it's Hefner and he came up with it and it's it's Hefner and he came up with it and it's wonderful and there are a lot of people saying stupid things it's Heffin Refer so we wanna get him on board and get these going there'll be a board and there'll be more lock on it too and you guys can captain your own beers. You do have people interested in other beers and they don't want to announce it no they do. DJ A and Jenna are up for captaining or chairing Duff beer. There's others for Elsinore beer and other people will be on the board but they want it pretty bad it's Dave and Doug mckenzie you don't really recognize them no you kind of do he's the guy who stars in space balls as Darth Vader and it is BG the other guy might be trump yeah that's who he is no it's Brad and he's dragging his heels and everything and he won't be anybody or have anything and our son and daughter will have to tell him to take off and yeah take off to the Great White N and tell him later it's a beauty way to go. And our son was saying that because he said you go up there and just freeze to death and he's thinking fun of it and stuff so they start copying him and they started this huge thing with a beer yeah so there's putting in their ads and .... so there's putting in their ads and stuff and on SNL that you can freeze to death and things and people didn't like it but they started drinking the beer so we are going to go ahead and start selling it and we're going to start making it. the sun was to do the Duff man thing so I'm gonna print

Nuada Arrianna

Olympus

nd we hve an idea what to do ok lol

Thor Freya

we do

Hera

and so on

Nuada Arrianna

[batgirlgeek]

Funko Pop Collection

So I got this ask a while back from a mutual (aka @blackcat2907) and I mentioned in the tags that I could show off my funko pops so here I am! I started collecting them in middle school. They’re probably a money waster and will most likely be thrown away by future descendants but I like them🥰

I tried to get them all pictured together since they’re all scattered about my room but that didn’t happen bc I either misplaced some or they weren’t standing right (bc as we all know, Funkos can be finicky with if they want to stand properly on a given day).

My Harlequin Batman/Alfred Hitchcock/Darla/Lock/Mr. Rogers are usually on a shelf together since I don’t know where to put them and I’m not sure where most of them came from. I imagine Lock was purchased around the time when I was making my descendants fics (one of them featured Lock, Shock and Barrel’s Children) but idk for sure😅

From back -> front/left -> right we have:

Carmen Sandiego (she was my first)

Drowned Batman/-11 Batman (I haven’t actually read Death Metal but I really like the aesthetic of that AU Batman😅)

Regular Batman

Harlequin Batman

Darla from Shazam (I really liked the first live action—and the second—and I thought Darla was sweet❣️)

Alfred Hitchcock

Lock (nightmare before Christmas)

Mr. Rogers (I think I bought this when I saw the Tom Hanks’ biopic)

Eric + Ariel (I keep them with my fairytale retellings. I’m hoping to get a Cinderella figure at some point since

Batgirl

Pride month Robin (I usually buy my Funkos from retailers or Amazon but this one I got from funko’s official store since it came out during June last year shortly after Tim came out)

A bonus Dorian from D&D: Honor Among Thieves:

I enjoyed that movie a lot and I have a soft spot for tieflings so when I saw Hot Topic had the movie Funkos, I snagged her. I nearly forgot to include her since she’s usually sitting on a corner bookshelf behind my chair/desk. Since D&D is a roleplaying game, I’ve kept her with my game disks/switch & DS cartridges

The bombshells collection:

Left -> right:

Hawk girl

Supergirl

Batwoman

Poison Ivy

Catwoman

I’ve been trying to collect DC’s Bombshells line because I just love their 40s aesthetic a lot—I’d like to get the comic series also but I’m currently on a book buying ban to curb my physical TBR (there’s 58 books left if my Storygraph’s count is right).

And finally, my minis:

My mom got me this DC funko advent calendar for Christmas last year and it was very fun opening them all up since it gave me something to look forward to every day. Unfortunately, a lot of them were duds as there were so many duplicates (I suspect the company just retooled actual Funkos and didn’t bother to make new ones lol). Also the flash ones don’t stand unless they’re leaning against another mini. But I still think they’re cute so they’re displayed on their own shelf :)

I’ve never officially counted all my Funkos before but in total (excluding my advent calendar minis) we have 18. There’s a lot more I’d love to buy (including a Huntress funko) but at the moment all I can do is stare wistfully at an Amazon wishlist and I’m okay with that for now😅

(I’m sorry this took awhile BTW. I could lie and say I was busy but I really got sucked into the tv series White Collar of all things. It’s good, I’m on s4 <3)

By the way,, before you leave: if anybody is reading this and is collecting the deluxe editions of these dragon age books or knows where I can get copies for a reasonable price, I would appreciate it. They are very hard to find now since they’re technically out of print I think. I’m missing The Calling, The Stolen Throne and Last Flight. Might have to cave and buy them in their original editions which would be a shame bc I think these copies are gorgeous and have incredible art😅

[copepodkisser5000]

i’ve just seen this (as somebody’s header image) and wow… i think i have my headcanon for human Karen’s appearance now :0 the vibes are spot on hehe

yes i do not accept the musical’s interpretations as 100% canon, but at the same time i have a lot of trouble imagining people’s appearances (real or fictional, it’s called aphantasia and it’s not fun especially when you're a selfshipper :[ ) so when i see anybody who matches what i CAN imagine, it just *clicks* and it’s like YEAH! THAT’S THEM ALRIGHT >:)

​i don’t have much of a human appearance for plankie either sadly but there are like? hints here and there? hard to explain. but i really want to make him look as much like mr. L as much as possible without just drawing a carbon copy of his voice actor. also i would make him really short, his musical version is way too tall lol i know actors can’t help their heights but i am going to make him so much shorter than me (and i’m pretty short myself!) he's gotta be like five feet nothing in platform boots at the absolute tallest !

[1legitconnor]

Get to Know Better Tag

Thanks for tagging me, @blind-the-winds!

Rules: answer the questions and tag nine people you want to get to know better.

3 Ships: Caitlyn/Vi from Arcane. Leslie/Ben from Parks & Rec. Arya/Gendry from Game of Thrones. My biggest ships are my own OCs, but that’s for me to delve into in my WIPs. But basically I’m on board with any legit power couple that don’t have a toxic relationship with each other (so Joker/Harley are off the table for example, but I do have my own villain power couple that, with each other, have a healthy relationship, so they’re on the table.) As another note, Abed/Annie would be a runner-up to this list if they didn’t work better as best friends than they would as an actual couple.

First Ever Ship: Oof, I have no idea. I think I’m going to say Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s Mr. & Mrs. Smith. I saw that movie when I was like 10 or 11 and it definitely shaped what I still think of when I think of what I want in a story. Peak action comedy. Great action. Great comedy. Great combination of the two. And the entire final sequence of the movie? As in everything post resolving differences and deciding to be an actual couple? *chef’s kiss* Surviving the ambush, leaning on outside friendships, the car chase, the stealth kills in the shopping center, and the final shootout where they’re perfectly in sync? Absolute perfection and you can probably definitely find ripples of that movie in all of my fictional couples.

Last Song: If we’re doing songs I listened to myself and not the Christmas music that’s been playing out loud in my home this morning, then “Best Friend” by Yelawolf ft. Eminem

Last Movie: Just watched Barbie: Rapunzel with the fam, so that. Speaking of which, I’m hyped for the live action Barbie movie. It’s going to be amazing

Currently Reading: Gardens of the Moon by Steven Erikson. Some of my friends recommended it to me (I’m actually reading their copy of it). I’m still near the beginning and it’s interesting, but very dense so far. Lots of world building right out of the gate, so it did take me about the entire first chapter to adjust to the speed I had to absorb new information at.

Currently Watching: So many things. My wife and I are watching a handful of shows together, but one show that I’m currently working my way through by myself is Better Call Saul, which I’m in the second season of. It’s been very enjoyable so far.

Currently Consuming: I’m thinking about having leftover chili fries for lunch. If not, then maybe some Ramen or something.

Currently Craving: Ice cream? It’s actually been awhile since I’ve had any. For me anyway. I used to have it way more often than the rate I’m currently eating it at, mainly for budget reasons. Hoping to return to consuming it at a higher rate soon though. Also, I could go for some Chinese takeout right about now.

Tagging: Anybody who wants to? I’m on mobile, so I don’t have an efficient way to find 9 accounts I want to tag without doing a lot of back and forth between pages and I’m hungry, lol

[cursed-elo-images]

INCORRECT ELO QUOTES PART 6

Melvyn: But we’re friends! I was building up to calling you a nickname soon!

Hugh: That’ll never happen! In fact, you just lost “Hugh” privileges. From now on, you can call me by my last name or ‘Hey, you.’.

Melvyn: Come on, Hugh.

Hugh: *glares*

Melvyn: Come on, Hey you.”

Jeff: Show me Pennsylvania.

Kelly: I don’t know Canadian geography.

Kelly: Who hurt you?

Jeff: *snorting* What, do you want a list?

Kelly: ...Yes, actually.

Kelly: Ow!

Jeff: What’s wrong?

Kelly: I have this weird pain right above my eyebrow.

Jeff: It’s called a stress headache. I got my first one when I was four.

Kelly: Anybody got any crayons so I can color in my Ph. D.?

Hugh: Is this a good idea?

Hugh: Probably not.

Hugh: Do I care?

Hugh: No.

Kelly: That awkward moment when you're scrolling through someone's old Instagram posts and you accidentally comment the entire Declaration of Independence.

Kelly: You either buckle down and do your work or you'll end up at McDonald's.

Melvyn: WE'RE GOING TO MCDONALD'S IF I DON'T DO MY WORK?

Kelly: NO!!

Kelly: *running away from Melvyn and screaming*

Melvyn, getting out of a car: WHY ARE YOU RUNNING? WHY ARE YOU RUNNING?

Hugh: Bill Nye is out on vacation, I am Bill Nein

Melvyn: Hey can I go use the bathro—

Hugh: N E I N

Kelly: So, uh, you guys comin' to my party?

Melvyn: Who?

Kelly: You guys.

Melvyn: It's just me— *notices the mirror beside them and fist bumps it* oh what up, you going?

Jeff: I think Hugh was right.

Bev: I'm surprised he hasn’t marched in here to say 'I told you so.'

Richard: He wouldn't do that.

Hugh: You're right, Richard. For once in your life, you're 100% right. I would never say that.

Hugh: *turns around, the shirt he’s wearing says 'Hugh Told You So' on the back*

Jeff: *Screams*

Hugh: *Screams louder to assert dominance*

Richard: Should we do something?!

Bev, observing: No, I want to see who wins this.

Jeff: Everyone, synchronize your watches.

Bev: I don’t know how to do that.

Richard: I don’t wear a watch.

Hugh: Time is a construct.

Hugh: Mel, I'm sad.

Melvyn: *Holds out arms for a hug* It’s going to be okay.

Jeff: Richard, I'm sad.

Richard, nodding: mood.

Jeff: Everytime I hear someone talking about updog, I’m torn between not wanting to fall for it and wanting to help them complete their joke.

Bev: Okay, but what is updog?

Richard: Updog is a long sausage in a bun, often served with ketchup, mustard, onions, and/or relish.

Mik: Not, that’s a hot dog. An updog is when a new version or patch of an application is released.

Hugh: No, that's an update. You’re thinking of the fourth largest city in Sweden.

Melvyn: Surely, that’s Uppsala, where’s updog is the giant spider in Harry Potter.

Jeff: That’s Aragog. Updog is a symbol conventionally used for an arbitrarily small number in analysis proofs.

Mik: You’re thinking of epsilon. Updog is an upward-moving air current.

Richard: No, that’s an updraft. An updog is the modern version of a henway.

Bev: What’s a henway??

Jeff: Oh, about five pounds.

*The squad right before Jeff's wedding*

Bev: Well I have to go, I have a wedding to attend.

Richard: Wait... Oh! I have a wedding to attend too!

Mik: Oh, I have a wedding to attend as well

Hugh: I THINK WE ALL HAVE WEDDINGS TO ATTEND

Melvyn, panicked: I THINK I HAVE A WEDDING TO OFFICIATE

'Can I copy the homework?'

Kelly: I can help you with it!

Bev: Yeah, sure.

Hugh: Bold of you to assume I did the homework.

Jeff: lol nope.

Melvyn: Wait, we had homework?!?!?!

Richard: *Read 5:55pm*

Kelly: I actually have a black belt.

Jeff: In what, karate?

Kelly: No, from Gucci.

Kelly: Whaddya call a fish with no eye?

Richard, not looking up: Myxine Circifrons

Kelly:

Kelly: fsh

Jeff: Kelly was banned from the chicken shack, so we had to go out of town to get some.

Kelly: Well, they shouldn’t say “all you can eat” if they don’t mean it.

Jeff: Kelly, you ate a chair.

Jeff: Don’t worry, I know exactly what I’m doing. Everything is going to be fine!

Kelly: How can you still say that?

Jeff: Because sometimes, when things get tough, denial is all we have.

Melvyn: It’s dark in here

Kelly: Don’t worry dude I got this

Kelly: *Stomps his feet*

Kelly: *Skechers light up*

Jeff: Today is a day of running through hurdles.

Kelly: Aren’t you supposed to jump OVER hurdles?

Jeff: Whatever. Fear is only something to be afraid of if you let it scare you.

Hugh: English is a difficult language. It can be understood through tough thorough thought, though.

Jeff: You need to stop.

Hugh: Am I in trouble?

Jeff: Take a guess.

Hugh: No?

Jeff: Take another guess.

Jeff, going over Hugh’s resume: Okay, so right here, it states that you’re creative.

Hugh: Yes

Jeff: Okay... may I know what you create?

Jeff: Problems.

Kelly: If you were to vacuum up jello through a metal tube, well I think that’d be a neat noise

Jeff: I beg to differ

Kelly: Then Beg

Kelly: Okay, help me please!

Jeff: Got two words for you.

Kelly: I bet they won't be helpful.

Jeff: Your problem.

Kelly: I was right

Hugh: Oh just so you know, it's very muggy outside

Richard:

Richard: Hugh, I swear, if I step outside and all of our mugs are on the front lawn...

Hugh: *Sips coffee from bowl*

Hugh: If there's going to be a big dramatic scene, wait until I get back.

Bev: Of course. I can't flip this table by myself.

Kelly: petition to remove the 'd' from Wednesday

Melvyn: Wednesay

Kelly: Not what I had in mind, but I'm flexible

Jeff: In light of what you did for me, you can hug me for four to five seconds.

Hugh: FORTY FIVE SECONDS?!?

Jeff: No! Four to five seconds!

Hugh: Too late!!!

Store Worker: Would a Mr. Lynne please come to the front desk?

Jeff, arriving at the desk: Hello, is there a problem?

Store Worker: points to Kelly and Richard

Store Worker: I believe they belong to you?

Kelly and Richard, simultaneously: We got lost *frowns in unison*

Jeff: I didn’t even bring you guys here with me-

Jeff: We need a distraction.

Richard: Is anyone here good at jumping up and down and making weird noises?

Kelly, whispering: My time has come

Kelly: I really like this whole ‘good guy, bad guy’ thing you guys have going on.

Jeff: It’s not an act, it’s just that I’m mean and Richard isn’t

Melvyn: Who thinks I can fit 15 marshmallows in my mouth?

Mik: You’re a hazard to society

Hugh: And a coward. DO TWENTY.

Kelly: I can’t believe you live nearby, and you won’t let anyone crash at your place.

Mik: You people already know too much about me.

Melvyn: I know exactly three facts about you, and one of them is that you won’t let any of us crash at your place.

Kelly: What's a word thats a mix between 'sad' and 'mad'?

Mik: Disgruntled, miserable, desolated-

Melvyn: Smad.

Kelly: With great power comes great need to take a nap. Wake me up later.

Kelly: Watcha got there..?

Melvyn: *petting a ostrich* A smoothie.

Melvyn: There is no future. There is no past. Don't you see? Time is simultaneous, an intricately structured jewel that humans insist on viewing one edge at a time, when the whole design is visible in every fact.

Kelly: ...All I asked was if you wanted to cut your birthday cake first.

Melvyn: I am an expert at identifying birds.

Kelly: Okay, what about those ones flying over there?

Melvyn: Yeah, they're all birds.

Kelly: Change is inedible.

Melvyn: Don't you mean inevitable?

Kelly, spitting out coins: No, I did not.

Kelly: Are you sure this is the right direction?

Hugh: Certainly, I'm as sure as I am honest!

Melvyn: In that case, we're definitely lost.





INCORRECT ELO QUOTES PART 6

Okay so I used three more websites to generate quotes and they are:

Note: on the SCATTERPATTER site there are no content warnings except for ships, and there are content filters on the 12beesinatrench site so if there are any users that see this post that are minors I’d advise you to use the content filters and to avoid the Scatterpatter site since I found some quotes on there that were unfitting for my blog and Wattpad page.