#i had costumes picked out for all of the girls and like. big photoshoot plans but. i am. so tired.

[kandadiff]

Larger Than Life : Performances

~

The entire ride to the stage was pretty quiet. Everyone to focused on their talents and hoping their planning the day before was good enough to get a fan votes to stay. Bow Wow greeted us when we were moved off the bus and into a building. The place was dark, the only light coming from a large stage with a pulsating x on it. In front of the stage was a few rows of seating for an audience as well as a table for what I assumed was judges. He stood on the stage with a big smile. We all had our hands full, each hold costumes, props or anything we needed for our performance which made him laugh.

"You all look like your ready to put on a great show." He said and we all enthusiastically - yet nervously - replied. "Okay so I want to tell you all a few things. This challenge is for you to prove to the fans back at home that you are not here for nothing and you all are serious about your futures in the business. The people with the lowest fan votes and score will be up for elimination."

"Score?" William asked.

"Thats my second point. You all will be judge today based on your a few parameters. Skill and Technique, which means how goof you are at the talent you chose to show us. Two, Stage Presence: This is all about your ability to command the stage and make us give you our full attention. Creativity and Originality basically whether the performance has unique and innovative elements that set it apart from others. Artistry: why you chose this particular thing and its about us feeling your connection to it. Entertainment Value is this enjoyable for us. Timing and Pacing Looking at the flow and timing of the performance we don't want it to drag on. Overall Impression Considering the overall impact and memorability of the performance. and finally" He placed his hands on his chest. "I will not be judging you, instead I would like you to meet your judges." He turned and we cheered as the bright face of Kelly Clarkson came on stage and waved at us. "She got her start like some of you will, on a reality show. Please Wellcome grammy award winning singer, winner of American idol and all around lovely person Kelly Clarkson."

"Hi guys!" She smiled wide "I know what you guys are feeling, I was in your shoes once too and I cannot wait to see what you all can do."

"Our second judge has been running is own comedy show for a while now, but is also a former child star as well as married to the gorgeous Mariah Carey, Nick Canon!" He came on stage waving his hand.

"I really can't wait to see all of this. I have been watching the show and I'm not going to lie I am hooked! so I am ready!"

"And last but not least our third judge is a model, actress and all around beauty Megan Fox!"

She walks on stage and Ian whistles. She laughs "Thank you everyone. Just know that I am so excited to see everyone really shine today!"

"Okay now that you know our judges. We will be picking our order at random so please finish getting ready, we will be starting in a half an hour."

~ ~ ~ Im not going to write everyones thing but just a small snippet for some and how they do / what their score was / if something happened to them / what they preform ~ ~ ~

Makayla

What preformed? Like a Boy | Overall score 80/100 | obstacle: stage fright | Outcome: successfully worked through stage fright and turned it out towards the midd - end of the song|

Emma

What preformed? The burn book scene from Mean Girls | Overall score 59/100 | obstacle: audience member calling her trash | Outcome: called the heckler out |

Maddy

What modeled? Creepy yet beautiful mermaid that has been captured | Overall score 58/100 | obstacle: turned out to be allergic to the substance on the mermaid tale | Outcome: had to cut the photoshoot from 10 photos to 5 because of allergic reaction|

BlackPink

What preformed? BoomByah | Overall score 91/100 | obstacle: due to the smoke machine onstage malfunction towards the end of their performance the fire alarm went off | Outcome: got points taken off for not double checking their props |

Kendall

What modeled? Midnight fairy in nature | Overall score 16/100 | obstacle: Lighting Challenges all the photos come off looking very off and odd due to the lighting being off | Outcome: lost major points for being photoshopped post production |

Nate

What preformed? The shine box scene from Goodfells | Overall score 5/100 | obstacle: actually slipped on stage could not nail an Italian accent | Outcome: got points taken off both

Vanessa

What preformed? Say okay | Overall score 49/100 | obstacle: forgot cheography | Outcome: managed to pull it through in the end but the dance in the beginning was a mess

One direction

What preformed? Kiss you | Overall score 88/100 | obstacle: every time Louis or Liam sung some people in the crowd boo'd them | Outcome: ignored the hecklers but it was distracting and did distract the other boys

Edward

What preformed? We Made You | Overall score 14/100 | obstacle: considered to be way to vulgar and at one point he couldn't hear the beat in his headset | Outcome: lost major points for being off beat and ruining the flow of the song

Sweet Trauma (Austin, Tatiana & Robin)

What preformed? Come as You Are | Overall score 99/100 | obstacle: nothing - nearly perfect score | Outcome: they did a fantastic job.

Justin

What preformed? What do you mean? | Overall score 53/100 | obstacle: microphone shorted out | Outcome: he threw the microphone off stage and tried to sing without it - strained his voice a bit

Adi

What preformed? Try Again | Overall score 86/100 | obstacle: nearly tripped on stage throwing off cheorgraphy by a half a beat | Outcome: worked through it once realized

Cassie

What preformed? Nail salon scene from Legally Blonde | Overall score 64/100 | obstacle: hurt her back doing the bend and snap | Outcome: fought through it but it was noticibale she was in pain.

Part 2 coming soon

~

[mydollsaregay]

happy halloween from me and miss molly! we are both dressed as rockford peaches 🥰

[ichika27]

Mairimashita! Iruma-kun s2 ep14

It’s gonna be the weekends soon and I forgot to make this post lol.

Continuing from their plans in the last episode, the girls go clothes shopping. Ameri looks good in the dress and was complimented for it but she has concerns about the outfit not being fit for battle. She has her priorities elsewhere.

Clara tries on a dress that's a bit too big on her for fun. The staff notices and a tiny demon is tasked to make it fit her perfectly which makes her beauty stand out.

I couldn’t take a whole picture of what she looks like entirely but I’m telling you I was surprised - Clara actually has a sexy figure. I mean I shouldn’t be that surprised with how both Ameri,  Elizabetta, and Kerori (as an idol) look and they’re all around the same age but Clara I didn’t notice at all until now. Probably her childish personality and the clothes she wears (which most of the time is her school uniform) making her look like she’s younger. She actually looks more like her mom now. Anime genetics, man.

The whole group posed for a photoshoot! It would’ve been nice if the others tried on a different outfit, too.

They look like they just finished dancing in this shot lol.

Kalego-sensei is having... some kind of time. As it is a contest, Sensei can't refuse to do as the kids on his team asks even though it doesn't really work and he won't fake being happy for it. Meanwhile, the boys got invited to play some carnival games.

Team Kalego finally had some fun through the game but Team Baram posted a lot of pictures of Iruma having fun and thinking they might lose, they decided they'd go somewhere the other teams haven't gone to. The place they picked is somewhere Kalego-sensei doesn't approve of as he explains that there are dangerous areas in the park (other than the prison underground which I’m not sure if Kalego-sensei knows about, too). This park has a lot of unsafe places but this is the demon world so I shouldn’t be that surprised.

Iruma and Ronove are having fun it seems. Iruma is having the time of his life experiencing something he hasn't before while Ronove treats this as a little competition as he didn't think Iruma could keep up.

By the way, obviously Asmodeus is the one taking all these pictures. We should’ve known before but the show had to confirm it by showing Azz holding the camera and taking pictures happily. I bet his social media accounts are just full of Iruma pictures. Good advertisement for the future demon king, I suppose lol.

As Iruma tries catching up to Ronove to whatever they could go next at the park, he accidentally takes the wrong turn and gets lost... at the very place that Kalego-sensei was telling his team was dangerous.

Before he could get into trouble however, some kind but strange girl shows up to save him and take him back to the right path. They hang out a little and have some fun before she was able to take Iruma back to his group. She disappears afterwards without even telling him her name.

Her name is revealed to be Cedar and is a staff member who works behind the scenes in the park. But just like the other staff members the kids have been meeting the entire episode, they take their jobs as “Everyone’s Playmate” seriously and want to spread happiness to the visitors.

Iruma gets punished into playing as a monster at a kiddie playground cause of what happened (which he’s okay with). The kids are having fun attacking him and Asmodeus is close to losing it and committing assault on the children but was held back by the others. One of the kids around Iruma is roleplaying as member of Six Fingers. Azz explains that the real Six Fingers is a group made up of demons who underwent primal regression and they're pretty mysterious which made them popular as well.

Agares mentioned how he wasn't having fun and Ronove chalks it up to him wearing an eyemask and proceeds to take it off. And thus eyes reveal happened... he’s actually a bishounen! Ronove isn't happy that someone else is prettier than he is.

I’m just gonna say this: usually people enjoy fanservice and all and I was expecting the comment section to be talking about Clara’s new look but no, most people are talking about Agares. And they should! This boy is too pretty and shiny to be ignored. Ronove can do that but with his powers so Agares is a natural. No wonder Ronove is annoyed lol. He decided that maybe it’d be fine if Agares looks different and so Ronove plans to have him wear something else. The others thought costume change would be fun, too and follows.

While the kids are having fun, Wetotto excuses himself so he could send in a report with Baram-sensei watching over the kids for now. It is revealed with a convo with another staff that Wetotto and the other staff members we saw throughout the day are all new. And we finally get our reveal.

I did feel there was something strange about the guys running the carnival games but I didn’t suspect Wetotto (who I thought had been working there for a long time if he was charged with looking after the owner’s kid), the guys running the clothes store (they just seem like they fit there too much), and Cedar (who I thought had been living in the creepy part of the park for a long time). I should’ve realized the reveal before it happened when there are exactly 6 prominent extras this entire episode.

And now the destruction of Walter Park begins... and so does the exciting part of this arc!

--

The Agares entire face reveal was surprising. Almost all the boys in the series look good but as Ronove said, this one’s different (which he feels is a threat to his own looks). The guy needs a makeover to show off how pretty his face is lol. I would say the same about Clara but in a way, they're similar as a different look doesn’t seem like their style and is a huge contrast to how they act most of the time.

Kalego-sensei seem to know stuff about the park. I wonder if he knows about the underground prison as well? I’m not gonna be surprised if he does as he is a powerful demon that even one of the demon king candidates, Grandpa Sullivan trusts. I just realized that this must be the reason why Grandpa Sullivan had sent chaperones for the kids  it’s not just him being comically overprotective of his grandchild, it’s him knowing about the dangers of Walter Park under the fun exterior. Kalego-sensei and Baram-sensei are both high ranking demons and I’m not sure if I remember if it’s been told but Opera must be as well since they’re stronger than both the teachers (with Kalego-sensei scared of Opera).

I’m wondering if Cedar is gonna have a change of heart since she seems nice and looked like she had fun with Iruma when they hung out but as light-hearted this show mostly is, Kiriwo-senpai still chose to be evil so I shouldn’t hold my hopes up.

This is gonna be an interesting arc with fights as not only do we have Iruma and the rest of the Abnormal Class who has their own special abilities but also their three very powerful chaperones. And Ameri is here and also Ronove-senpai (wonder what he could do in battle?). They’ll be fighting not only against the escaped prisoners but also the mysterious and powerful Six Fingers along with a bunch of monsters the group has released and also Kiriwo-senpai who has made a comeback! How exciting!

Thanks for reading this post!

[keepingupwithfundies]

BuB Season 10 Episodes 8-10

The Bates have their Noah’s Ark themed “I Love You” Day. It’s really...something. At the party, Travis has a question for Gil...and then a few weeks later, one for Katie. At least in the recaps, T manages not to complain every time they’re out in public (from Feb to Apr. 2021) without masks, but know I was thinking it. 

-T 

*Episode 8: Two by Two, I Love You

It is time for the first photoshoot in the new Bates Sisters Boutique location, and Esther and Tiffany have joined the party. The sisters are all thrilled to be in their new space with their hopeful future sisters in law. Lawson and Tiffany have been talking for about five months, have a lot of the same life passions, and they are having a good time. Tiffany is finishing her masters degree and Lawson says it is a big deal to bring her into the family, but it is a good time to do it. Esther is nervous about modeling for the first time, and Nathan reassures her. Tiffany jumps right in and she is a natural. Carlin says she never thought she'd see Lawson like this, and she has to do double takes. It is Esther's turn, and Carlin helps coach her. Carlin says she doesn't need coaching. Nathan says Esther is stunning but shy, but once she got in front of the camera her model side came out. Nathan says she did an amazing job. Kelly arrives, and she is impressed with the new space. Kelly goes to talk to her daughters about party plans, and tells them that Nathan and Esther will be cooking the couple's dinner. The sisters are all surprised but supportive of them. Kelly says she still has a whole bunch to do, and Erin hopes they will make a bunch of memories this weekend.

Michael says that she and Brandon went to start decorating for the party after the photo shoot. It is a Noah's Ark theme, and Brandon & Michael have taken on the decorating. They had fun making some decorations and finding some on theme and getting everything set up. Esther and Nathan get cooking, and Esther is used to cooking for a crowd, being some a big family. This dish is one which she made the first time she met Gil and Kelly, and they raved about it. The dinner will be at the church, but they are cooking at the main house since Kelly has two ovens. Nathan says being in the kitchen is outside of his area of expertise. Esther and Nathan have to head over to the church, since they left some stuff there. Esther says they should just stay and get ready there, and asks Katie and Travis to take the chicken out when it's ready and bring it over. Katie, not a chef herself, is nervous about this but Esther reassures her it will be ok.  There is also potatoes, but Esther has faith in Katie.

Everyone arrives at the church for the dinner, which is nicely decorated with help with some church friends. Nathan and Esther arrive last, and they are impressed with the dinner. Over the years, Lawson and Nathan have joked about the couples dinner but they are happy to be there with their girlfriends this year. The couples dinner is a hit, and Michael talks about what a special time it is each year. Gil shares a devotional thought with the couples, which is about how love cover up the little annoyances in relationships and how you need more of it as you go. Tori talks about how meaningful that is to her. Everyone then eats, and everyone is very impressed with Esther's cooking. Lawson says he enjoyed his first official couples dinner, and that it is going to get hectic from here.

The next day, the not-yet-engaged couples go to look at some rings. Nathan and Esther are looking pretty seriously. But the other couples are moral support, although Katie says they are taking notes. Nathan is nervous about the ring; he wants Esther to pick the style that she likes so he has a path to follow. Esther tries a princess-cut solitaire and then they look at a three stone look. They try a square halo, and Esther loves it. She lit right up, and Nathan is thrilled. Esther knew right away, and says "if you propose to me with this ring, there's no way I would say no." Nathan likes to see the ring on her finger, and he is so glad he know just the ring she likes. Nathan and Esther are so excited.

Later on, it is time for the "I Love You Day" party. People begin getting their costumes on for the party. Kelly is so excited for the theme. The couples are getting ready, taking photos, when Travis finds Gil alone on the basketball court. Gil knows what's coming. Travis tells Gil he loves Katie, and that he would like to take care of her, be faithful to her, and Gil does he usual joking "no" and then gives his blessing. He then says to make sure to come visit often. Gil says he knew it was coming, and it was an honor to get to someone with his character. Kelly asks if Gil can keep this a secret, and he says that now Kelly knows the secret will get out.

It is party time, and everyone arrives to show off their animal costumes. Zach arrives, and everyone tries to figure out what he is, and Zach jokes that he is a party animal. Jackson says it is his signature move: Zach comes as a cowboy and wins some kinda prize. Zach says they were going to be a dinosaur family, but only one costume came in: Bradley's. So they found what they could for everyone else. The costume contest commences. Kelly has everyone cast a ballot for the dinner. Tiffany's mom handmade Tiffany and Lawson's costumes, and Tiffany brought honey sticks for everyone which definitely helped their case. Counting the ballots is a more of a process then they expected. Kelton, Bobby, Evan and Travis go outside to practice their song, and the guys thought this would be fun to initiated Travis as a hopeful future brother in law. The guys all rave about Travis's voice. Travis asks if they have any advice. They ask if Travis has asked Gil, and Travis says he did. Bobby goes, "Did he say no at first?" and Travis says "he did!" and Bobby says, "did you laugh? you didn't laugh right?" and Travis says he thinks he did. But Bobby says you're still here. Bobby says that's step 1, and Kelton will do step 2. Kelton says step 2 is have a photographer there, and make a plan but be flexible to get it done. Evan says jokingly that from there on everything is perfect and nothing will do wrong. Bobby says he should just ask after their song, while in costume, as that is "every girl's dream." Travis says he will take some of the advice and he will use it. Travis says,"No offense, but Josie, Carlin and Katie talk all the time...", and Kelton jokes "but I'll kill you if you say anything." Bobby says the secret will stay within their marriage, and tells Tori not to tell anyone else.

Back at the parties, the Brothers-in-law get up to sing their song. The guys sing a sweet old love song in crazy costumes, and everyone enjoys it. Then it is time for the Biggest Heart Award, which she gave for the first time to Lawson last year. This year, it goes to Michael, since she drops everything to be there for them. Michael nursed her grandmother through a recent illness. Everyone cheers for Michael, who is overwhelmed and deeply touched by the award. The costume contest begins: Bradley (t-rex) wins for Grandkids, Ellie (an inflatable cow suit) wins singles, and Lawson and Tiffany win for couples. Kelly says there were so many memories, and she is already planning next year's party. Lawson and Nathan say it was particularly special for them, and Katie says every year is better and better- and hopefully next year they'll be back and married.

*Episode 9: The Webster's New Home and Nathan's Next Move

Whitney and Zach invite Bobby and Tori over, since they just moved in down the street. The boutique has left the house, and they joke about being able to see the house again. Zach and Bobby go to cook, and Bobby is excited to learn from Zach. (Oh, it's a Perdue ad! Hi Purdue!) The kids also help cook. Whitney says when Zach has time, he loves to cook really nice meals. When it's busy, she does a lot of casseroles. Tori has boy clothes for Whitney, and Whitney has girl clothes for Tori. The clothes get both families excited about their new additions. Tori says it is cool to see how in sync Whitney and Zach are in the kitchen. The food is done, and everyone is excited about trying the meal. It's good.

John and Alyssa are moving, and Maci is a few weeks old. Ellie and Addee have been enlisted to help Alyssa pack up. Ellie and Addee are good movers. Addee says she usually prefers to watch the kids, so she does that as Ellie and Alyssa pack her house. At the new house, John is working away with some of the brothers to get it ready. The flooring goes in quickly, and John is impressed. Alyssa is excited by the progress. Alyssa says it was wonderful having her siblings come help.

Kelton and Bobby are working at the plumbing company, since they had a lot of businesses in 2020 due to people being home breaking things. Bobby and Kelton are enjoying working together. They now have a warehouse. With work being crazy, they need to figure out how to handle Tori and Josie being due about a week apart. They are looking for another office person to handle the phone while they're away. But growing their families and their businesses will have some growing pains, but will be a memorable year for them.

Callie and Jeb are over at the Paines to meet their new goat. Last year, the Paines got a kitten, two pigs (and piglets on the way) and now a goat. Holland feeds the goat a bottle, and Holland loves the goat. The goat walks on a leash. Everyone agrees it was fun getting to spend some time all together and meeting the goat April!

Nathan goes back to the jewelry store to get the ring which made Esther light up. Lawson has gone for moral support. Lawson is excited for them. Nathan says it is all getting real as he purchases the ring and begins making plans for the proposal. Nathan jokes that he is one step ahead of Lawson, and Lawson says it isn't a race. Josie says Lawson and Tiffany say they aren't in a hurry, but she thinks they will move fast and she is excited. Nathan asks Lawson about rings, and he points out one he saw last time. Nathan gets the ring, and he is ready to ask Esther soon.

*Episode 10: Due Dates & An Engagement Getaway!

A lot is going on for the Bates family: three babies, two new relationships and Travis's upcoming proposal. Kelly sneaks out to a cafe and FaceTimes Travis and his mom. Travis says everything is ready to go in Key West. The plan is to surprise Katie at the weekly Bates Sisters Boutique photoshoot. Travis says he is planning on being outside and coming in to surprise her. The one thing they need to figure out: Travis and Katie share phone location, and if he shuts if off, she'll know. The plan is to tell her Travis broke his phone and then to have him call her from his dad's phone. Kelly says Katie is one who figures out surprises, so hiding this from her has been a challenge, but so far the surprise is safe.

At Zach and Whitney's, Josie arrives and brings Willow over to do a painting activity. Whitney and Josie are excited about Hazel, Jaden and Charlotte will be close in age. Josie says she was mostly pregnant by herself with Willow, and it is way more fun to be pregnant with someone. Whitney and Josie paint signs- Whitney paints "Jayden" (so this is before the spelling change) and Josie paints an H. They talk about nursery plans, and Josie tells Whitney that Willow is into everything. When Josie went to get her from a nap, Willow had stripped down naked, gotten her diaper off, and smeared the contents everywhere. Josie is now worried about them sharing a room in case Willow does something like that again. The kids help decorate, and Zach arrives to deliver chocolates from their husbands. The women are touched, and they appreciate the chance to make memories before their babies arrive.

Nathan is training Lawson to become a commercial pilot, and Nathan wants this wrapped up before his proposal. Nathan is so excited for the next step with Esther, and Nathan is starting to think about finances, where they want to live, and all that. Nathan asks when Lawson is gonna get engaged, and Lawson says he is saving for a ring. Lawson says Tiffany is an amazing person and getting to know her is a joy. But he wants to get Nathan to the altar before making more plans.

In New Jersey, Travis is trying to write a song for Katie for the proposal. His parents and brother come over to help him with the song. His family is very musical, so they can be a tough audience, but they are really supportive. He plans to sing it after proposing, but his mom suggests doing it first. He agrees that makes more sense. Travis says he has some things to figure out, but he is praying it comes out perfectly.

Travis and his parents are heading to Tennessee, and it is crunch time on hiding the surprise from Katie. At the boutique, Whitney, Erin and Carlin are excited for the photoshoot which will feature all the sisters except Alyssa and Michael (who is out of town). Tori arrives first, and then the rest of the sisters arrive and the shoot begins. Travis is hiding outside ready to sneak in and take the camera at some point. Taryn, the photographer, starts the photoshoot off with the sisters, and one photo of all three pregnant sisters together. Finally, Erin asks Katie to change, and it's time for the secret to come out. Up until this point, only Gil and Kelly knew the Clarks were in the parking lot. Erin starts putting people in a line for the big group sister shot. Travis sneaks in, and the sisters are shocked but he shushes them quick. Everyone is shocked and excited to see him. Addee says everyone knew right away this was the engagement. Katie comes out, and Travis, from behind the camera, says "Surprise!" Katie says he said he was getting his phone fixed, and Travis says: "Nope, we're going to the beach!" Katie then sees his parents are there, and she is shocked. Katie didn't think he would surprise her at a Boutique photoshoot, so he has surprised her once again. All the sisters are so excited, and Katie can't wait to see when and where it happens, but she knows it will happen soon. The sisters take a quick pic with Travis, and then it is time for Katie to go quickly pack.

Katie, Travis and their parents arrive in Key West, and they are in awe of their surroundings. They shop, explore and take photos. The Clark parents went to Key West on their honeymoon, and they are excited to be sharing it with Travis and Katie. Everyone does a history train tour first, to get to see what is going on on the island. They take photos at the southernmost point, a classic photo spot. Everyone teases Kelly for her love of vacation photos and counting "one two three" over and over again. Next stop is the Butterfly Conservatory. Everyone loves getting to see all the different types. Everyone is surprised with how many butterflies there are. They see flamingos as well. A butterfly lands on Gil's phone, which he thinks makes him special in some way. Kelly says the odds of a butterfly landing on you in that place with so many butterflies are high.  Gil retorts, "So did any land on you?" and Kelly laughs and says no. They rave about the conservatory.

Next up is a sunset cruise, and the views are amazing. Katie thinks this is the time, but it is just a classic tourist sunset cruise. Gil says this is a great tease for when it really will be. Everyone enjoys the sunset, and Katie teases her parents for being on their phones taking pictures instead of "living in the moment." but everyone is laughing and having a good time as the sun goes down.

The next day, it is proposal day (although Katie doesn't know that quite yet.) First stop is to a sand sculptor for a class in sand sculpting. Katie and Travis sculpt a dolphin. The parents go for a turtle. First, the sculptor has them pack the sand in first, and then everyone start chipping away at it. Katie and Travis have their dolphin hold a heart with their initials on it, which makes theirs the favorite. The sculptor asks where they're going next, and so does Katie. Travis says lunch is next. Travis says his nerves are ok right now, but he is worried about his song and wants to practice it before the real thing.

Kelly, Travis's Mom and the photographer go to the location, a pier over the beach, to see how the florists have set it up. It is really beautiful, and everyone is impressed. Kelly says she is nervous enough for the both of them, but it is time. Katie and Travis are all dressed up and ready to go. Gil sends them off on a walk, and Katie thinks this is it. Travis leads Katie away, and she is crying already.

Travis leads Katie down the pier, and they are both super nervous. Travis tells Katie he loves her, and he leads her to the end of the pier. Katie says it looks like a scene from a movie. Travis leads her into a heart made of flowers, and Travis picks up his guitar. Travis sings her his proposal song, and Katie cries as he sings to her. Katie was overwhelmed by the song, saying she tried to focus on it but couldn't stop crying. Travis finishes the song, and then gets down on one knee and proposals. Katie says yes, and Travis puts the ring on her finger. They hug, and then they turn to their parents. Their parents come hug and congratulates them. The Clarks says they are excited to have Katie in their family, and they have a bright photo. Katie is so excited as they take pictures. All the Bates siblings share their well-wishes in talking heads. Gil says there's wedding bells in the future, and three babies on the way- and maybe two more engagements- and, who knows, maybe even two weddings in 2021? Gil says there is a lot to look forward to and be grateful for- it is a dream come true.

[alexajanecollins]

Ben Chilwell - Your own little Fox - Part 8 

Previous parts: part 1 - part 2 - part 3 - part 4 - part 5 - part 6 - part 7 

Only two more parts coming your way before I end this story! 

I am a THOUSAND TIMES sorry for this loooooooong part - seriously, I was in a pretty good writing mood and as you can see have my own wedding all planned out already as I took inspiration from that - LOL first need to find myself some decent men... 

Never in a million years would you have ever thought your life would be looking the way it is right now. You were satisfied to say the least, having the needed ups and downs, but you made it and that was the most important thing. Years ago you just knew you were taking kind of a big risk in leaving your own normal life behind and dedicate everything to Ben and his career. You had your doubts, many days of thinking you should end things between the two of you. That’s when little Fox came into your life, a total surprise, but he was more than welcome. And here you are, many years later and you couldn’t have wished for anything better than this life. Being engaged to your soulmate and having two wonderful kids, what more can a person wish for? Well an engaged person can only wish for one more thing: a wedding of course! 

You were nervous, and the fact you weren’t “allowed” to sleep with Ben the night before the wedding, was driving you insane. Since you booked some rooms in the hotel that was connected to the venue building, all your friends and family who were invited to the wedding had a room to stay the night after the party. “I seriously think I have to see him before.” You say while pacing around the hotelroom taking a look at the girls for a second. “Like for real.” You sigh. “Let me just change in some jeans and let me go talk to him, please.” You whined taking a quick look in the mirror for a second as you were all ready for the morning ceremony, only the closest family members and best men were invited to as the others would come and join for the dinner part and/or the party. “No way, we seriously have spend an hour on getting you in the dress.” Your best friend says seriously looking at you for a second. You sigh once again. “Fine.” You say taking your phone from the nightstand to distract yourself for a second glancing at the door ones you heard knocking. “Oh hi, come in.” You heard your best friend say smiling as your sister entered the room together with your one year old daughter Lola. “Hi, how is she doing?” You ask picking your daughter up in your arms. “She is the most well behaved one year old I have ever babysit.” She says taking a look at you for a second. “You look amazing by the way.” She adds. “aww thank you, for both compliments.” You say all happy laying Lola in the stroller as she was fast asleep. “And Fox is where? With Ben?” You ask looking at her when she nods as an answer. “Good” You smile taking a last look in the mirror. “I am ready.” You say confidentially as you needed to head towards the ceremony building for the first part of your wedding day. 

The ceremony part went fast and you would be lying if you said there weren’t any tears formed during. Ben complimenting you the whole time ever since you walked inside of the building, you being pretty impressed by the costume choice yourself. After the ceremony part you and Ben had some smallish photoshoot kind of thing before you headed back up to the room to get changed into your dress for the dinner and the evening part. 

You and Ben had your speeches towards each other after the dinner part. The speeches brought a lot of laughter and some tears to everyone being presented in the venue. “I seriously can’t mention enough how beautiful you look.” Ben smiles whispering a little so only you could hear placing a soft kiss on your cheek. You smiled taking his hand in yours. “You look pretty good yourself.” You say while standing up still holding his hand. “And I seriously hope you practised your dance skills.” You laugh a little making him stand up as well. “Oh gosh, totally forgot we still have to dance together.” He laughs himself placing the napkin that laid on his lap on the table. “Can’t promise you anything.” He adds squeezing your hand while following you to the dance floor. “Just know, I will always love you.” You smile all happy wrapping your arms around his neck as your favourite song started playing, you both decided that this song was going to be your love song forever. Ben smiles looking you in the eyes the whole time while swaying to the music, mostly of the time just following what you were doing as he had no clue himself. “You make me blush with the staring.” You whisper looking back at him almost forgetting that people were watching you both. “You are just too beau...” He started saying but was interrupted by a voice that he recognised as James shouting towards Fox to get back as he escaped from his lap. You snapped out of your intimate moment looking in the direction of James voice smiling to yourself as Fox was running towards you both. “My baby.” You say kneeling down a little picking him up in your arms. “Always wanting to be in the middle of the attention spot as well.” You laugh a little kissing his head moving your free arm around Ben again to kind of finish the dance together. “He gets that from his dad, for sure.” Ben laughs tickling the boy a little who started giggling. “Oh gosh, I love you both so so much.” You say all happy taking a look around at all the people for a second nodding to your friends to come join you both on the dance floor as the slower music ended and the DJ started playing some other tunes. This perfect day was for sure going to end in a perfect night, with all your friends and family together. 

GOSH I WENT HARD ON THIS - THERE WILL BE MORE FOCUS ON LITTLE FOX AGAIN IN THE NEXT PART(S) - PINKY PROMISE

[crazyrandomfucker]

Adrien Augreste: Fairy tale

Adrien didn't know how much had he messed up this time, until he saw himself (or rather as his Chat Noir self) in a full princess dress while he held an imaginary cup of tea on his hand. He could have gone to visit Mari later, after patrol, when he'd be tired of running and his princess would be robably staying late again, working on a project or doing homework. But no, he had to go before patrol, while Mari was taking care of the two little "precious angels" of Nadja Chamak, the reporter.

Chat had been fool enough to knock at her trapdoor without checking first through the small window if Mari was there or if she had company at the moment. De "angels" had to, and of course they had had to, open the trapdoor and grab him by his poor tail. In the next minutes, the two little demons had gone all over Mari's designs wardrobe, picked up a very Disney-like lime green dress and put it on a very confused, even astonished, Chat Noir.

While all that happened, Marinette had been downstairs, discussing with Nadja about what would Mari do that day with the little girls. Mari had prepared in advance a few dresses and outfits with a medieval style to had a little play with the girls, obviously focusing on a fairy tale theme to attract their attention. But when she went upstairs to play with the girls expecting to see them playing with her stuff, she was surprised to find a magnificiently dressed princess Chat Noir with a desesperation look on his face having tea party with the little girls. There he was, the brave, loyal and quick-witted Chat Noir, dressed as Tiana and drinking nonexistant tea from a flowery cup. She couldn't help it but to laugh heartily and make a few photos.

Upon seeing that, Chat let out an indignated groan and tried to snatch the phone from Mari to delete the photos without succes. To everyone's surprise, Manon and Mina grabbed Marinette and pushed her to the closet, Mina entered with her and there were a few screams from Mari that made Chat wonder what in the world was happening on that closet. Luckily for him, he didn't have to wait to much before Marinette came out in a Prince Charming outfit. The little girls high-fived and made Mari sat down with them to take a cup of tea.

"You look charming Princess, or should I say Prince now?" joked Chat.

"Ha ha. Very funny. If you keep saying that, there won't be any more croissants for you" said Marinette in a serious tone.

"You wouldn't dare! Not the croissants! Anything but those delicious croissants!" begged Chat.

"Perhaps I'll think about it if you help me today taming this precious angels" said Mari with a smile.

"Anything for those delicious treats. I'm at your service Princess" said Chat Noir, doing a bow holding his dress like a princess.

"Pffffft, you're such a pretty princess Chat" laughed Mari.

"What can I say, I'm a cat with meowltiple talents after all. Acting is one of them" said Chat.

"Yeah, but puns are definetly not. That last one was horrible" said Mari.

"You know you love them as much as you love me Purrincess" joked Chat.

"Then kiss him!" said Manon and Mina at unison.

"Say what?" said Chat.

"If she loves you, she has to kiss you!" said Mina.

"The prince has to kiss the princess!" exclaimed Manon.

"Manon, Mina, Chat was joking about that. And none of us is a prince nor a princess" said Mari with a faint blush as she remembered the Dark Cupid incident.

"That's right, it was just a joke. Thought, you're a real princess for me Mari" said Chat nervously with a clear blushunder the mask.

"Why am I getting so fussed about kissing Mari?" thought Chat. "It's not that I hate her or anything, but I'm a loyal cat to my lady. I can't like her too, right?"

"But we want to see a kiss!" said the little demons.

"Oh yes? Then watch this!" said Mari, grabbing Chat and kissing his hand like a real prince, making the boy turn into a tomato. "There, a kiss. Are you happy now?"

"That wasn't a kiss!" complained the girls.

"I kissed his hand, so it's a kiss. You never said where you wanted the kiss so you'll have to settle with that. At least, if you want to play again with the dollies" said Marinette.

"Boooooh!" chanted the girls, but stoped inmediately when Mari raised her brow nd lppked at them. "We'll behave..."

"I must say that I'm quite impurressed princess. I didn't knew you could handle kids so well" said Chat as he was beginning to calm down.

"Well, I've got practice thanks to your usual visits, mon Chatveliére" teased him Mari.

"Gasp. You hurt this poor cat's honor" said Chat dramatically.

"Sure thing, oh brave knight in shining leather" said Mari sarcastically.

"You've been rather sassy lately Princess, may I ask what has happened?" asked Chat.

"Later. Now I need you to get out of that costume and wear the one I have, we have two little girls to entertain after all" said Mari.

" Are we having a story?" asked Mina.

"Are we going to act?" asked Manon.

"Yes, we'll be having a story and you will act if you want to" said Mari with a big smile on her face. "But you'll have to get dressed for that, so go on and choose any dress or outfit you want to try while me and Chat get changed"

Chat got himself out of the dress and passed it to Mari, since he didn't need to hide because he already had his superhero suit under the dress. He adjusted the prince charming outfit, being careful to avoid ruining anything with his claws, and looked into the mirror. With the mask and the ears, instead of being like the prince from a girl's dream, he looked like a charismatic rogue prince. He liked that look better than those he had to pull on photoshoots or fashion shows. Then, Mari came out in the green dress, with her hair tied on a bun and wearing a flower ornament on her head very similar to the one Adrienne used to wear a lot lately.. Oh, of course, it was Marinette who had crafted the hairpin, why wouldn't the creator have also one? He mentally scolded himself for forgetting that.

He went back to look at the designer outfit and he had to admit that his heart had just skipped a few beats. The pale skin she had was brought to life by the soft green of the dress, creating a great contrast of colours. Then, the palid purple of her hairpin softened the dark blue of his hair, also matching with her sky blue eyes. In three words, she was stunning, and the model had to recognise that he had missed this whole time the beauty of his friend. Then, he shook his head and thought of Ladybug, she was the only one for him, no matter how attractive could this bakers daughter be..

From the closet, the little girls interrumped the moment by shouting them soemthing along the lines of 'start without us'. Both teenagers were startled by the unexpected orders of the twins and looked to each other with a faint blush, as if they had been caught doing something they shouldn't, but theyburtsed in laughs instantly.

Chat decided to begin with the play, kneeling in front of Mari, with a serious look in his eyes as he said "Oh, my dear Princess, who are thou planning to go to the ball with? May this modest cat be your companion to such event?"

Mari couldn't contain her laughand let a few giggles. "Oh my dear Chat, you are the knight of thee black cats, thou are the most desired by both pleasant girls and nobles girls. Wouldn't I be a nuisance to you? Why invite me amd not your beloved knightress of ladybugs?" said Mari trying to keep her composture.

"My beloved Lady of bugs doesn't correspond my feelings, she is in love with a star. But thou, my princess, thou are gentle and loving towards this poor alley cat. For that reason, I shall move on and compormise to this incredible damsel who shows nothing but affection for me" said Chat with half of a grin on his lips.

"Then, my beloved knight, I shall be your partner to the dance" said Mari doing a little bow with the dress as she rolled her eyes.

"I feel honored to have such an amazing partner" replied Chat with a bow.

"Oh kitty, thi words you say flatter me, but you should stop them if my company you want" said Mari, making Chat experience a sense of deja vú.

 "As you wish, Ma Princesse~ I suggest we better go to thi ball now,you know how angry mademoiselle Burgeoise gets when someone interrumps her parties" said Chat brushing off that feeling.

"But my friends aren't here yet. They will be worried when they don't find me" said Mari.

"Worry not, princess, I shall leave a note so they know where are we" said Chat.

"Okay then kitty, we shall part to the ball now" said Mari and they began to walk around the room to simulate that they are travelling.

"Good thing we arrived on time. Now princess, shall I have this dance?" said Chat offering his hand with a bow.

"You shall kitty" said Mari giggling as she took her hand. "But I shall warn you, I have two left feet and dancing is a mistery to me".

"Fear not princess, this mangy cat will teach you as we dance" said Chat as he played some music on his staff.

Chat told Mari wher she had to put her hands and they began to spin around,slowly dancing at the pace of the music, Mari ocasionally stepping on Chat but he brushed it off as if she didn't weight a thing. There was a sudden moment where the music changed into a more lively one and they changed their pace, adjusting to the rythm of the song. Mari giggled as she was enjoying this and Chat couldn't help but to smile whole heartedly, which distracted Mari and remind her of someone.

Then, the closet opened and the two little girls came out dressed as ninjas (why did they had to dress as ninjas?), charging to Chat and attqcking him with a rubber knife. Chat let them stab him with the knife and faked as if he was dying, obviously overexageratin the whole thing as if it was a drama from the ancient Greece. Mari held her laugh succesfully this time and kneeled to hold Chat on her hands.

"Oh cruel fate" said Mari, "why must thou take my brave knighy away from me? Why?"

"There is one way to save him" said Mina.

"A true love kiss can heal any wounds" said Manon with a big Chesire smile.

"Is that so?" said Mari galring at the amused girls. "But Chat is in love with someone else, and so am I. A true love kiss is impossible to happen".

"Come on!" chanted the little girls.

"Would you like it if we told you to kiss someone who is just your friend?" said Chat.

"No..." said the twins at unison, lowering their heads.

"Then it's the same for us" said Mari. "Chat loves Ladybug, everybody knows that".

"Except her apparently" said Chat bitterly.

"Oh Chat, how wrong you are" said Mari petting him. "She knows your feelings for her, I know it. She constantly says that she doesn't want to hurt your feelings, but she's in love with someone else. She's really sorry because if she didn't love him so much, she'd give you an oportunity".

"How do you... Oh, right, you're her friend" said Chat. "Does she really says that? Or are you just trying to cheer me up?" said he with his ears down.

"Kitty, I thought you knew me better than that. I'd never lie about something like that" said Mari.

"I know... Hey, do you know who's this misterious boy she loves so much? I'd like to know to whom I have lost" asked Chat.

"Chat, I can't tell you that..." said Mari, instantly regretting it as she saw Chat looking down. "But I can tell you something..." said while she looked Chat's mood improve. "She and I are more than friends, we're also rivals in love. We like the same boy, but she has better chances to win his heart. She's the awesome Ladybug, everybody admires her. That boy doesn't even notices me, how can I even compete with her?" said at the berge of tears. "I- I'm sorry, I'm rambling again".

"Princess" said Chat, grabbing her face and lokking at her seriously. "Whoever that boy is, he is a fool for not seeing such an amazing, talented and breath-taking girl. You are a wonderful girl and any guy that has the amazing luck to be your crush, love or whatever, will be the luckiest guy alive. Anybody who doesn't like you is just the biggest idiot in this world".

"He's right Marinette! You're the best babysitter we've ever had! And your designs are amazing! And you look so pretty in that dress! That model is stupid if he doesn't see you!" say the girls to cheer her up.

"Awww thanks girls... And you too Chat, I really apreciate those words" said Mari with her voice trembling.

"Wait... Model? You like a model? I mean, since you want to be a designer it makes a bit of sense that you fell in love with one of them after seeing them daily, sorry, I said nothing" said Chat.

"Ughh... Now you have a clue to discover his identity" said Mari.

"Is it really that bad if I knew? I mean, I swear I won't get jealous or anything like that, I want that Ladybug and you to be happy, so I wouldn't interfere with your love conquest either" said Chat.

"Chat, that's really sweet, but that's notthe reason why. It's not because of Ladybug either. It's just that it's really embarrasing. It's not a celebrity crush, we both know him in real lifeand he's just so sweet and nice and selfless and he doesn't really mind that I stutter around him like crazy and... And I'm rambling again" said Mari.

"Don't worry, I don't really mind. It's lovely to hear you rambling just as it is hearing Ladybug mumbling when she thinks of a plan" said Chat without thinking, making Mari blush and blushing when he realizes what he had just said.

"Thanks Chat..." said Mari awkardly.

"You're welcome princess. Now, I shall go before Nadja comes to pick her little girls, or I'll be forced to go through an interview and I won't make it to patrol. Farewell princess and deathly ninjas" said Chat with a wink and leaped of the balcony.

[softspaceboibrian]

Our castle (fluff Roger Taylor)

Roger Taylor x reader, Roger Taylor!Ben Hardy x reader (works either way)

Summary: Roger knocks the readers door in the middle of the night. He’s drunk and has had a fight. The girl takes care of him, but her plan to go back to sleep as soon as possible is pushed back because of Roger’s request

Warnings: EXTREME FLUFF (a fight and a small wound are mentioned, but that’s it, no description)

Notes: I really wanted to write about this for a while. This version of Roger really make my heart melt. There’s a quote from the musical Dear Evan Hansen, if you get it, I love you

Words: 2027

“I screwed up” was the first thing she heard when she opened the door. It was late, really late, nearly 2 in the morning. She had been asleep for a couple hours already when she realised the knows on the door were real, not just part of a dream she was having. Dressed in a simple pyjama bottoms and a big t-shirt of Queen, which she probably had gotten for free since she worked for them, her hair pulled up in a messy bun on top of her head. The first thing she heard after she unwillingly woke up was the rain tapping of her bedroom window. She made her way to the front door to see who it was, hoping it was at least important.

“Rog” her friend, the man she had been going out with lately, was standing in front of her, soaking wet. “Come in, but just wait here, I’ll come back with some towels and something dry that you can change into” she immediately said, disappearing into the bathroom. A few moments later she was back, wrapping him in a big towel, while trying to dry a little bit his hair. He smelled like beer and cigarettes and he was shaking. “What happened?” her voice was calm, warm, which was a relief for Roger.

“I drank a bit too much. I got into a fight. I couldn’t find my car outside of the bar, so I walked here.” His eyes were low, looking at his own feet, as if he was embarrassed.

But it was only when she finally put a hand under his chin and tilted his head up that she noticed the big cut of his cheekbone and the slightly swollen lip. “Roger” her voice was still soft, but this time there was a hint of worry in her tone, which even though being drunk, Roger noticed.

“It’s nothing. It doesn’t even hurt” he said, faking a smile while still letting her dry him. It was a lie, it hurt like hell, but she didn’t want her to worry more than she was already doing.

When she took his hand and guided him into the bathroom, he squeezed her hand back, wanting to make sure he wasn’t hallucinating or anything, but his head hurt too much, both because of the alcohol and because of how hard that guy hit him. “Take your clothes off and get in the bathtub. Afterwards we’ll have to take your temperature because, love, I’m afraid you have a fever.” He simply nodded, doing what he was told and getting in the bathtub as soon as warm water started filling it.

“Are you getting in with me?” his big blue eyes were now on her, he was slightly pouting and the whole look on his face made her heart melt, but she still shacked her head, pressing a quick kiss on his definitely too hot forehead.

“No, baby, I’m not. But I’ll be right here the whole time. I promise” she smiled, taking some water and pouring it on his hair, making sure not to get it in his eyes. “I’m taking care of you tonight. Okay?” He nodded, smiling back at her and closing his eyes as soon as she started massaging his scalp after putting shampoo in his hair. All of that, spending time with him like that, it was a side of him she had never seen. It was new, and even though he was drunk, she still liked it. It had been a couple of months since they had actually started going out. It started after one of Freddie’s big theme parties, where she was dressed as Cleopatra and Freddie made him dress like Mark Anthony. Freddie had obviously set everything up for them to have matching costumes. In fact, he went around taking pictures of all his favourite costumes, and as soon as he saw the two of them talking to each other, he squealed, saying how much he needed a picture of them together. They had known each other for a while at that point, she had started helping them with their costumes when Roger and Brian were still in Smile. Everyone around them had noticed the tension between the two of them since the beginning, but neither of them ever did anything to take the friendship to a new level. She always thought she wasn’t the kind of girl Roger liked, and Roger thought the same about her. Luckily Freddie helped them in his own way. From that night on they had started spending more time together, Roger would pick her up on his way to rehearsal, he would take her out for dinner, take her dancing, even take her to big event with him, as his plus one. And he was changing for her too. He tried to stay out of trouble, he tried to drink and smoke less, he quit playing around, sleeping with a different girl every night. Those were the signs that meant he really cared for her. And she didn’t want to lose him either. She had never been the outgoing type of girl, always down for a crazy party. She was quiet, whenever she was in the studio with them, she was reading a new book or working on some new outfits for their new tour or an upcoming photoshoot with an important music magazine. No one would have ever thought that the two of them, so different from one another, total opposites, would end up together. But then, here they were, in her bathroom, Roger enjoying the attention she was getting, her taking care of him.

“Come on, get out.” She whispered, helping him to get up and out of the bathtub, wrapping him in the soft towel, before leading him towards the sink. “I need to disinfect your cut.” She was already with her head in the cabinet, looking for the disinfectant and some cotton disks. “This will burn a little.”

“I’m strong. It won’t hurt me” It was the first thing he said after staying quiet for almost twenty minutes. And that short comment made a big smile appear on her face.

“I know you are, baby. I’m just warning, like I always do.” She said, delicately patting the cut with the wet disk, noticing how he was clenching his fists, probably because of the feeling, but she said nothing.

When everything was set, Roger was dressed, and she had blow dried his hair, she took his hand, pulling him towards the bedroom. But the man stopped in the middle of the corridor, looking towards the living room, before turning his head and looking directly into her eyes. “Let’s make a fort” he was clearly still a bit drunk, and she was definitely too tired, but she couldn’t bring herself to say no, especially not when he was looking at her with those big eyes of his. She simply sighed, nodded and pushed him into the living room.

“Start gathering the couch cushions and a couple of chairs, I’ll be right back with some stuff we’ll need.” She said quietly, quickly kissing his cheek, before disappearing into the bedroom, where she took some bedsheets, a couple of warm covers, the pillows and small lamps she kept on the night stands. When she came back, she couldn’t help but smile at the sight of Roger sitting in the middle of the living room, surrounded by her couch and armchairs that had been pushed closer together. “I see you already had your plan in mind”

He giggled, helping her with the covers and everything, before taking her hand and leading her in the middle of what were going to be the walls of their fort. “My lady, I know it’s not much yet, but let me present to you your future castle”

“My castle?” she asked, giggling a bit.

“Our castle. I’ll live here with you” he explained, slightly tilting his head to the side.

“Of course you will, you’re my prince, after all” she said, noticing immediately afterwards a big smile making in his way across his face, up to his eyes. They never really said at what point of the relationship they were, but obviously that was more than enough for him to feel free to cup her face and gently bring her closer, so that he could press a soft kiss on her lips. When they pulled away, she kept her eyes closed for a few more seconds, enjoying how gentle his manners were in that moment. But she was then brought back to reality by the blonde, who jumped back on his feet, asking her to help him finish the castle, so that they could then cuddle in there.

It didn’t really take them long to finish to build the structure and ‘decorate’ the inside with the few thing the girl had brought from the bedroom, so, less than half an hour later, they were laying on the soft carpet, inside their new castle, under cosy and warm covers. Roger had his head on her chest, so that she could play with his hair like he asked her, their legs were tangled together. “Thank you” he whispered, his eyes closed, his voice soft.

“For what?”

“For taking care of me” he looked up, meeting her eyes, his heart fluttering in his chest at the sight of her smiling down at him. “I came home drunk after a fight and you didn’t say nothing, you just let me in and took care of me.” He raised a hand, moving the hair that got out of the bun out of her face, gently brushing his fingers against her skin “I love you”

She looked at him, not really knowing what to say, how to react. Of course she loved him, how couldn’t she? But at the same time he was drunk, he had a fever, probably the next morning he was going to forget he had ever said that, so she decided to play let herself softly giggle, still playing with his hair. “Is the fever getting to you or what?”

“I’m serious” he whispered, a little offended by the fact she was basically laughing at him after he had just confessed his feelings for her. “Sure, I might have a fever and still be a little tipsy, but I never joke when it comes to feelings. I really do love you. And if I have to prove it to you in some way, I’ll do it. If I have to wait for you because you’re not ready or you don’t love me yet, I’ll wait. But trust me when I say that my feelings for you are real.”

There was this light in his eyes, this glow that she had already seen in his eyes. It was John the one who pointed that out to her. “You know, I think he’s really falling for you” he has said to her, one day, while they were recording a new song at the studio. “He looks at you with a light in his eyes that I’ve only seen a few times before.” After that time, she had thought about that conversation with John constantly.

“Babe, I don’t need you to sell on reasons to love you. You know that.” her voice was warm, soft, her fingers gently massaged his scalp. “I love you. Like I’ve never loved anyone before.”

He didn’t need to hear anything more. That was exactly what he needed, so he simply smiled and laid his head back on her chest. “I’m sorry I woke you up in the middle of the night.” He said after a few moments of silence, his fingers absent-mindedly drawing figures on her stomach, while his eyes closed once more.

“Don’t worry about that” she smiled, closing her eyes too. “Try to get some sleep” She didn’t even finish the sentence when she heard a little snort coming from the man. She opened her eyes for a second, noticing how quickly he had fallen asleep. “Good night, my prince” she gave him a soft kiss on his head before falling drifting to sleep too.

[sleemo]

Adam Driver: ‘Compared with the military, acting isn't that difficult’

The Star Wars actor on leaving the Marines, filming nude scenes with Lena Dunham and getting in touch with his dark side — The Guardian | Dec 9, 2017

Adam Driver has a reputation for being a serious young man, which is partly a matter of attitude and partly, I suspect, to do with some aspect of his physiognomy: he has a large head and outsize features that somehow combine to give an impression of gravity. 

Before the photoshoot, he let it be known that he finds it uncomfortable to have a journalist (me) in his sightline on set, the kind of specification one might expect of a particularly precious Hollywood star. But this turns out to be misleading. Driver’s discomfort is with the entire celebrity aspect of his job, which makes talking about his role in the latest Star Wars trilogy somewhat tricky. I don’t even know where to start with The Last Jedi, I say, as we settle down after the shoot, and Driver grins, then looks gloomy. “Me, neither,” he says.

We are in downtown Manhattan, a few miles from Driver’s Brooklyn Heights neighbourhood (Lena Dunham lives there, too) and a more upscale part of Brooklyn than the grungy Greenpoint location of Girls. That show, the sixth and final season of which ran on HBO earlier this year, was watched by relatively modest numbers, but has had an outsized influence on the culture. Barely a day goes by without Dunham being mentioned in a blogpost somewhere, and it gave Driver, who played her on-off boyfriend, the kind of career launch twenty-something actors can only dream of. 

At 34, not only does he have his second go as Kylo Ren in the latest Star Wars movie, but he has just shot The Man Who Killed Don Quixote, directed by Terry Gilliam, was in the Steven Soderbergh film Logan Lucky and played the title role in the Jim Jarmusch movie Paterson. Pretty good, I’d say, although I assume the two Star Wars films – The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi – are the real life-changer.

“No,” Driver says, looking genuinely baffled.

But to be part of a juggernaut that size – wasn’t he warned it would change his life? “I don’t think anyone said that, and I wouldn’t have listened to them, anyway. As a person, I’m the same. The problems I had before Force Awakens, it didn’t solve any of them.” He laughs. “For me, the only noticeable difference is your visibility as a person. Loss of anonymity is a big thing. I didn’t realise how I would see that in a billion little ways.”

The fame he had before Star Wars was somewhat localised. As Driver says drily, “In my neighbourhood, a lot of people watch HBO.” Star Wars is different: “Seven-year-olds to 70-year-olds.” It is global and almost impossible to escape. Driver is 6ft 3in and distinctive-looking, like a child’s drawing of a man brought to life. He’s even recognisable when travelling at speed. “I thought, I’ll ride my bike around the city,” he says, “and within two seconds I got pulled over by the cops, who said, ‘Hey, can we take a picture?’”

Really? “Yeah. I mean, I also ran a red light, so it was fair.”

Driver has been in New York since his early 20s, and part of his appeal as an actor has to do with his background. Before attending drama school at Juilliard, he was in the Marines. He was discharged after two years of training, and before his unit got shipped to Iraq, following an injury brought on while he was out mountain biking, a terrible blow at the time.

It is this – the combination of the classical theatre training and the military experience – that gives Driver an unusual ruggedness. As with most things that come up during our conversation, he is mildly amused and emphatically deflating about the role of the military in his appeal as an actor. He already knew he wanted to perform when he joined the Marines in his late teens, a move partly inspired by 9/11 and partly by youthful lack of direction. Driver’s application to Juilliard had been rejected; he had no other plans and was listlessly living in his mother and stepfather’s house in Indiana when 9/11 happened, filling him with what he described in a recent TED talk as “an overwhelming sense of duty”. He was also feeling “generally pissed off” and underconfident, and for some reason – he agrees, looking back, that it was in many ways an odd move – signing up seemed to be the answer.

At high school, Driver wasn’t particularly macho. “I didn’t do organised sports, not because I didn’t like them, but because I wasn’t very good at them. Except basketball. But I was never, like: let’s play football.”

He mainly hung out with the high school drama nerds. “I wasn’t someone who was into groups of guys – we’re men! We’re going to eat meat!” He looks momentarily wry. “I don’t know what guys do. Anyway, I would never have talked to those people before the military. Now you’re stuck in the epitome of alpha-male territory.”

To everyone’s surprise, he loved it. One can almost see why: there is an earnestness to Driver that relished the purity of military life and the more he talks about it, the more he makes it sound like a combat version of Buddhism. “There’s something about going into the military and having all of your identity and possessions stripped away: that whole clarity of purpose thing. It becomes very clear to you, when you get your freedom back, that there’s stuff you want to do.”

The bonds Driver made with his fellow Marines were startling to him, given how different many of them were in terms of background. (In his own family, his mother is a paralegal, his stepfather a Baptist preacher and his father works “at the copy counter at Office Depot”.) In the military, Driver says, none of that mattered. “You’re in this high-stakes environment where who you are as a person is constantly tested. And, in my experience, a lot of the people I was closest to in the military were very self-sacrificing. For me, it speaks volumes, more than how well they were able to articulate, or whatever front they were putting on. You get to see them at their most vulnerable and they’re literally going to back you up. All pretences dissolve.”

Being discharged on medical grounds before deployment was devastating for Driver; but the experience of having been in the military also made rehabilitation easier. Nothing, he believed at the time, could be as hard again, and after a period of working in a warehouse back in Indiana, he found that he still wanted to act and reapplied to Juilliard. It was different this time. “Whereas at 17 I just wanted to be liked, and to be funny, and accepted, later I had a bit more life experience.” He was accepted and moved to New York.

He has worked almost constantly since then, to the extent that he took four months off recently just to hang out at home with his wife Joanne Tucker. (They met at Juilliard and she is also an actor.) Most of his early roles – he was in Frances Ha, the excellent Noah Baumbach movie, and in the Coen brothers’ Inside Llewyn Davis – were very good, but relatively small scale and indie. Even Girls, his breakthrough role, didn’t look like much when it first came on screen. The Force Awakens, on the other hand, became the fastest film to take $1bn (£740m) at the global box office. I try again: surely this does something to Driver’s basic levels of self-confidence?

“No, because that’s not what I was after when I started to be an actor,” he insists. “It would if that was my goal. I know people think that if you’re an actor, it’s your goal to be famous and wealthy. Surely you want to be famous and wealthy! And there are great things about that part of it – it frees you up to do other things. But part of my job is being anonymous and I think being able to live, to observe more than to be observed, is important. [Being famous] seems counterintuitive to my job. It’s a weird dynamic when you walk into a room and there’s an image people project on to you.” He interrupts himself to say, conscientiously, “My problems compared with global issues, or anybody else’s, are very small. Even that I have time in my day to think about the existential.”

This is how it goes with Driver: he is assiduously mindful of broader sensitivities and somewhat embarrassed to air his own. “What it means to lose anonymity is a bougie problem in and of itself. And I won’t garner sympathy, nor am I asking for it. The image of us on our red carpet wearing expensive suits, where people naturally assume your life is, is not what I was after when I started this job. Believe it or not.”

I do believe it, I say. One has only to look at him, twisting this way and that in his chair. (“I’m not doing it on purpose to get away from you,” he says.)

So he doesn’t take any credit for, or validation from, the success of Star Wars? “You mean, am I, like, yes!” He gives a little satirical air punch. “I’m excited that people liked it, but do I think that I got it right? No. If I had directed it, maybe. But I didn’t write it, direct it, pick out the costumes. All these decisions – about the lightsaber, that it’s unfinished and unpolished – none of those were mine. I know enough about this job not to take credit.” He looks pained. “That would be an illusion.”

Driver’s family have no roots in acting, although his stepfather’s job as a minister might be said to have some performance aspect to it. Driver sang in the church choir well into his teens, which, he says, gives you an idea of how left-field his decision to enlist was. When he joined the school theatre, it was because his friends were doing it and it looked fun. “They auditioned for Oklahoma!, so I did. And I got a part in the chorus. I remember being backstage and it seemed like a community that was a bunch of weirdos, and I liked that part of it. I also felt that I was kind of OK at it. I tend to get frustrated with things that I don’t pick up right away.”

When people in the US think of Indiana, he says, they think of somewhere “boring and flat”. It is also deep into Trump country, such that Driver and his family are careful to avoid talking about politics when he goes home for the holidays.

Occasionally, his worlds collide. A few years after being demobbed, Driver set up a nonprofit organisation called Arts In The Armed Forces, which puts on theatre performances for personnel at military bases. His burgeoning celebrity has made it easier to recruit other well-known actors to the cause, but it is testament to his management skills that from the outset, the company has been smartly and seriously run. His aim, he says, was to broaden the range of entertainment put on for the troops. When Driver was stationed at Camp Pendleton, in California, the troop entertainment was, “‘The Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders are going to come and dance for you.’ Which is great, but there wasn’t anything like theatre or performance art brought to us.”

Unlike Bryan Doerries’ excellent stage project Theatre Of War, in which Greek drama is performed before military audiences as a public health initiative, there is no therapeutic element to Driver’s nonprofit. Still, it can have an interesting impact. “In one of our first performances, Laura Linney did a monologue from this Scott Organ play called China, about a female employer reprimanding a female employee for not wearing a bra. It’s really funny, that’s why I picked it – not really thinking it through. It was one of a series of monologues, and the male Marines were coming out and saying, we really liked it, but we thought [that particular one] was an indirect attack on how we do things in the military.”

When Driver asked why, they replied, “Because there’s a uniformity and structure and a reason in the military, and we thought that’s what you were trying to criticise. I said, OK, that’s interesting. And then the female Marines were coming out and saying, I liked the whole thing, especially that monologue, because I know what it’s like to be a female in a very male-dominated environment. That’s the best response we could’ve asked for. Hopefully they like it and it’s entertaining. But it also confronts them, and they bring something to it that a civilian audience wouldn’t think of.”

It can take a little persuasion on Driver’s part to get officers to allow him on to the base, and if he is adept at overcoming the military’s initial scepticism towards theatre, it is thanks to the experience of having overcome similar prejudice in himself. Theatre school seemed insane after the Marines, he says. “It is a very egocentric four years, just sitting around and focusing on what does the back of my tongue sound like when I make this sound? What is a Scottish dialect?”

Failure didn’t particularly worry him; he was still in his early 20s and brimming with the confidence of youth and the machismo of two years of hard training. “In the military, you are put in hard circumstances, so I’m thinking, I’ll move to New York and be an actor, and if it doesn’t work out, I’ll just live in Central Park. You know, compared with the military, it can’t be that difficult. I’ll dumpster dive. I’ll survive. Civilian problems compared with the military are small; that was my thinking at the time. That’s not right. But at the time, that’s what I thought.”

It wasn’t just the contrast between the two worlds that gave Driver confidence. There is something almost fanatical about his belief in the right and wrong way to do things. When he was still at school and decided to be an actor, the only place he applied to was Juilliard; nowhere else, no backup. He had heard it was the best place in the US to train, so that’s where he wanted to go.

Unsurprisingly, perhaps, he isn’t on social media. Those kinds of exchanges don’t interest him. As a result, he missed out on a lot of the hype around Girls, although even he couldn’t fail to recognise that the show was a hit. (Driver won three consecutive Emmy nominations for his role as Adam Sackler.) It was a strange thing, he says, to sign up for what felt like a relatively obscure show – “Something that felt like it was made in the basement of a friend’s house” – and watch it rise, while he and his friends rose with it. (We speak before the controversy over Lena Dunham’s defence of a Girls writer against an accusation of rape.)

It did not escape Driver’s notice that his own nudity on the show was less remarked upon and criticised than that of Lena Dunham, even though Dunham wrote, produced and directed the show. “Of course there’s a double standard for men and women. I don’t think that’s a controversial thing for me to say. It’s so obvious, and one of the things that she was fighting against, which I understood right away, is that it wasn’t gratuitous. There was always a point behind it, it was always still storytelling. It just seemed very natural. We talked just as much about being naked, and what was the story and the sex scenes, as we did about scenes where there’s dialogue.”

It wasn’t uncomfortable to film? “If it’s for no purpose whatsoever, that would be very uncomfortable. But part of the storytelling is about our bodies and how they look, and if there’s something that’s not flattering about it, that was probably what we were going for. That’s my job, to tell the story.”

What did he learn from Dunham?

“Um. I mean, Lena is a great writer. She’s a good thief, also: she’s very aware of her environment and is very good about processing her experience of something immediately. I feel like I need more time to get distance on it, so I can look back and have an opinion. She is forming opinions as she does things. Which I think is a rare ability.”

Driver sometimes wonders if he’ll ever come to firm conclusions about anything. “I never figure anything out,” he says, winningly. “I do my job. That’s my goal, to be as economical as possible. Basically, the only thing I try to do is know my lines.”

His ego is contained, too. “Usually, the mood of the set is what I adapt to, as opposed to having a set way of working and imposing it on everybody else. If you need private time, usually people give you space for that. But getting set into one way of doing something seems like closing yourself off from being wrong.” On the other hand, “interesting things can come out of being wrong”. He smiles. “Sometimes.”

Can he let things go?

“No. I don’t think so. Maybe after a while. I keep replaying scenes in my mind. That’s why I don’t like to watch anything I’m in – it’s not my responsibility.” It’s a Zen attitude Driver has worked hard to perfect and he frowns with the effort of maintaining it. To be a small part of the machine is where he has always felt comfortable. “It’s not about me,” he says .

— The Guardian

[ryqoshay]

I just thought of an idea recently and I'm not sure if you have this in your notes: How did Nico (or anyone else) approve of the photoshoot for #608 Maki (the magician UR paired with Kotori) if Maki said she didn't believe in magic in the "If I Knew Magic" side story? Or is that retconned out due to her belief in Santa? I think this could be one of the "Nico teasing/annoying Maki" stories that another anon suggested earlier.

I can think of a couple of ways Maki was chosen to be paired with Kotori for the set.

But first we’ll start with Kotori. I would wager she already had an idea for the set and was a shoo-in for it. Worth bearing in mind that the magic in question is less to do with fairies and fantasy or swords and sorcery or dungeons and dragons or whatever, and more to do with sleight of hand and misdirection. Kotori has nimble fingers from her work with costume design. Combine that with the charisma that earned her fame as Minalinsky and the world’s most innocent poker face and she could misdirect anyone. For the idolized version, I believe she had a prince and princess motif in mind and was a natural pick for the princess side.

This left a vacancy for the prince. And who best to fill that role than one of the soldier game trio? However, by this time both Umi and Eli would have already been paired with Kotori in the Yukata and Job v2 sets respectively. This leaves Maki. I have no doubt that there would be some ribbing involved by the likes of Nozomi and/or Nico, but I think the reasoning listed prior would be the public reason for the pairing.

I would also headcanon that Maki has little problem with the type of magic involved in this set. This type of magic, as described above, can be explained quite easily once one knows the trick and it has nothing to do with the supernatural. And like Kotori, she has the dexterity from her years playing the piano. This might have been enough for the others to believe she would excel at performing the tricks. However, at this stage in her life, her poker face is horrible. I can see her thinking too hard about the mechanics of the trick and in doing so, telegraphing her moves too much, especially to those already familiar with her dishonest tsundre’ish tendencies. She also gets flustered easily, so if something doesn’t go as planned, she may have that much more trouble the next time, especially if she has an audience, as she does in the Side Story for her card.

Worth mentioning, SIF Side Story Maki is quite the different girl than how she is portrayed in much of the rest of the franchise, SIF Main Stories included. One of the big things that stands out to me is her referring to herself as Maki-chan, something only found in the earliest of diary entries and a scarce few other places. Integrating these aspects simply as they are may lead to some rather disparaging disconnects in her overall personality. Of course this isn’t to say she doesn’t have her share of disconnects. In HtHaN, she has a rather glaring disconnect between her feelings for Nico and her insistence that she does not have time to date. But I hope I have portrayed it in a believable manner thus far. I am hoping that the way I integrate the Side Stories into HtHaN will also be believable. Though I have yet to finish the scene addressing the issue, I am having the Side Stories be mini interviews or annotations to accompany the pictures in the magazines in which all of the pictures are published. For these blurbs, Maki intentionally dons a cuter persona, as dictated in part by Nico, in an attempt to increase her appeal to the fans. I still have to catch up on some of the later Side Stories, so if this persona changes, that might be something I need to address.

Finally, as for her belief in Santa vs her cynicism of the supernatural, like Nozomi’s tarot cards, I can think of a real world example of such a disconnect; the Tyrannosaurus Rex. For decades, the T-Rex has been lorded as the king of dinosaurs, the king of hunters, or basically a killing machine capable of taking down anything it encountered. And Hollywood ran with this trope, always portraying the T-Rex as something worth fearing in battle. Then some paleontologists came up with the theory that instead of the king of hunters, T-Rex was instead the king of scavengers. They pointed to evidence of its eyes, its nostrils and olfactory components, its forearms, its teeth, its jaws, and most damningly, its legs. T-Rex has the legs of a walker, not a runner. To quote Jack Horner of a certain scene in Jurassic Park, “I think they could have gotten away from it in second gear.” However, nostalgia is a hard thing to combat with facts. And as such, many in the populace, even within the paleontological community itself and definitely in Hollywood, still cling to the idea that the Tyrannosaur was the king of hunters. Nostalgia is also the reason why Brontosaurus is now accepted as an alternate name for the Apatosaurus, but that’s another story.

That all said, despite Maki being a fairly critical thinker in many areas of her life, the nostalgia of growing up in household that allowed her to believe in Santa makes it for a hard idea to give up. She could easily listen to parody Christmas songs or comedy routines that mention how Santa isn’t real and just shrug it off because nostalgia has taken firm root in her mind. Perhaps she has tried to logic things out, maybe using the “sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic” argument to explain things away. Or maybe she really has spent her entire life in a naïve bubble. Honesty, how Maki finally figures things out is still something I need to figure out myself, but I have a few ideas.

[lubdubsworld]

Under my skin. ( Namjoon/Oc)

Chapter 6

Author’s note : i have no idea how photography works. it’s mostly me trying to sound intelligent so excuse me if it’s inaccurate. 

“Your Id , and the back pass. There’s a small passage way to the left, at the end of this corridor. Take the first right and studio 6 is the thrid door on the left. The Boys won’t be here for another hour or so but the photographer is already here and he’s really looking forward to meeting you.” The kind receptionist checks through my bag and hands it back, smiling widely as she points out the way and I check my phone again to see if Yoongi has replied to my text.

nope. 

Oh, well. 

I slipped my backpack on and quickly made my way to the studio, only getting lost once and asking one of the younger trainees for directions before finally reaching the studio. 

The photographer is Lee Jeon Seok , a very famous fashion photographer with a pretty impressive portfolio. He’s also relatively young, late twenties or early thirties , tall and strapping with a nice bright smile. 

He’s also a little obvious with the staring.

“Whoa. Are you sure you’re here as a photographer? Not a model?” He teases, eyes lingering unashamedly on my breasts and i resist the urge to snap my fingers just to pull his gaze back up. it’s nothing new. Over the years, i’ve learned that photography was still predominantly a male dominated area and men usually took it for granted that if you came into their area you were open to being ogled at. 

I’m not a prude or a particularly sanctimonious person. i don’t mind being looked at, as long as no lines are crossed. 

Besides, i had more to lose if i kicked out so I could put up with a little harmless flirting. 

“I think you could teach me more about being a photographer than a model...” i smiled vacantly, keeping my expression firmly neutral. it’s a face i’ve perfected over the years , because in my business you just can’t offend these bigshots. It’s more than likely I’ll be seeing this guy again in my career and men are freakishly sensitive when it comes to shit like this. i had no intention of encouraging him but I couldn’t openly reject him either. 

“that’s true. There’s a ton of stuff i could teach you..” He smiles pleasantly and we spend the next forty minutes discussing lightings. He tells me all about the theme of the photoshoot, the members who would best be suited for it. How they were going to be dressed and how the natural lighting would have to be used well, because it was a ‘ Fairy in the Woods’ kind of theme.

“We’ll try to set as few artificial lights as possible and only in juxtaposition to the costumes . The boys have really amazing complexion, all of them so I’d prefer to make the most of it using the natural lighting...” He says easily, showing me swathes of skin tones according to each of the members and the corresponding outfits. 

“Will they be using the same outfits, inside and outside? Some of the indoor shots will need artificial lighting.... And won’t the colors look too different?” i say curiously and he smiles proudly.

“I was wondering if you’d pick on that. And no, the indoor shhots will all take place there, close to the windows. we’ll try to use the light on the outfits. Let’s do a bit of experimentation there... You’re welcome to take snaps as many as you want. I’ll review them later. We can go over all the photos together and i’ll help you take more notes... Maybe obver dinner tonight?” He smiles brightly . innocently. Like his eyes don’t betray the sheer lust coming off him in waves. 

I blink a bit to rearrange my features.

“I have plans for dinner. I’m so sorry. “ I say apologetically. “ But we can get coffe right after the shoot gets over.” i smile quickly and he frowns a bit but looks vaguely convinced. Men and their constant need to get their metaphorical dick sucked is something i will never come to terms with. 

“okay. It would be kind of pointless of you assisting me as an intern if you don’t stay back to discuss the shoot with me.” He says firmly and there’s a subtle warning there.

 I’m in charge here, so you better bend to my will.

 I smile brightly in response and open my mouth to reassure him again when a flurry of activity near the door makes us look up.

i really hate myself for it but it’s Namjoon’s gaze that I lock into, almost immediately. He pretty much pins me to my place with that stare of his and then he’s tilting his head in a coy gesture, dimples blooming on his cheekbones as he scratches the back of his head and smirks,. 

It’s at once incredibly hot and unarmingly adorable. A double attack, because my heart jumps, throbbing up to my throat at the cuteness and my thighs snap together as well, heat pooling in my belly because of the sinful way he is staring at me. 

i look down at once and to my surprise, Jeon seok slings an arms around my shoulder, drawing me closer as he drags me to meet them. 

“Hey guys... this is Ae Rin... My assistant for the day.” He squeezes my shoulder and Yoongi grins subtly before ducking his head in a mock bow. All the members smile a bit and i notice at once that Jung Kook refuses to look anywhere near me. 

Cute. 

But it’s Namjoon who steps forward and his gaze is deadly serious as he holds his hand out.

“Hi, Ae Rin ssi..Please take good care of us today.” He winks subtly and I’m pretty fucking proud of myself for not falling face first at the sheer disrespect. 

What the actual fuck.

“ Nice to meet you guys.” I smile amicably at each of them and Yoongi winks too, except it’s nowhere as ... depraved as Namjoon. it’s casual, friendly almost and i’m reminded again of why I like, and prefer Min Yoongi to Kim Namjoon. 

He does not make me want to crawl out of my own skin. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Why are you here?” 

I jump a little, nearly tripping over a stray chord as i turn around to stare at him.

“Excuse me?”

“Weren’t you going to intern with the artist we met at the Cafe? “ Namjoon has one hand in his pocket, the other fumbling with the chain around his neck, drawing my attention to the deep V of his silk shirt and the tantalizing glimpse of smooth creamy skin. 

“yoongi got this for me...long before I even knew you...” I say snidedly and I know I’m being hostile but there’s just so much of Mr. tall, handsome male I can take per day. Working with Namjoon at such close quarters is somehow grating on my nerves. it doesn’t really help that the guy isn’t technically doing anything wrong that i can tell him off for. 

 I’m used to snobby idols but this guy is just so oddly down to earth and level headed that i’m drawn against my will. 

“You know me? That’s a bit of an exaggeration, don’t you think?” He winks and I roll my eyes. 

“Fine. I admit i don’t know you. It doesn’t matter either way. “ I say with a shrug, moving back to peer through the pictures. 

He settles down next to me on a rickety old stool and i flinch when some of the staff begin tossing us glances at once. Especially some of the girls who work with the lighting crew and the costumes. The judgemental stare is obvious, accusatory in the way it pierces into my skin and i bite my lower lip before rounding on him.

“You should leave before you get me fired.” I say under my breath. 

“You don’t work here.” He points out fairly enough but I’m more worried about the way one of the staff is actually pulling out her cellphone, not so subtly moving to hold it up in my direction and yeah.... there are somethings you can’t really afford to lose, no matter how good looking and suave the guy is. 

I jump to my feet and turn around ignoring his voice and quickly stalking to the gap behind the set, where Jeon Seok iss talking to another girl.

“Oh, Ae Rin ah... Come here... This is the next set of photos we’ll be working on...” He pulls out another file and begins explaining when one of the assistants brushes by me and for a second i almost think i imagine it, the gentle brush of her fabric against my skin as she leans closer than necessary. And then a low voice carries to me, as she whispers, 

 slutty whore. 

I frown in disbelief. She can’t possibly have said that, right? But a quick glance lets me know that she did , her eyes fairly blazing vindictively as she smirks at me and wow....really? 

I turn back to the man as he continues with his instructions and it’s oddly unsettling, the girl’s words and how out of context they are. Why on earth would she say that... i don’t even know her. 

But the moment I step outside , it’s obvious what’s wrong. 

“Hey... You’re the assistant right?” One of the other make up artists gives me a disdainful amile.

I raise an eyebrow.

“Yoongi oppa says he wants to meet you in his dressing room.Says there’s something he wants to tell you in private.” 

the last two words are drawled, her eyes roving over my form with the kind of judgemental disgust that plain girls seem to reserve for us prettier ones , almost like it’s somehow our fault for being treated differently because of our looks. 

i feel my entire body still because i can’t even fucking believe what i just heard.

Was Min Yoongi that big of a jerk... ? Did he really just indirectly tell some strange woman, a woman who obviously rattled to every other woman in the set, taht he was fucking me?

My fists clench in mortification and disbelief and suddenly i know why these girls are glaring. They think I’m only here because i fucked Yoongi. That the only talent I have is the ability to land a famous idol in my bed and while i don’t give a rat’s ass about what these bitches think, I do care about having my talent undermined. 

I’m also not into being summoned  

So cheap that he could just ask some stranger to come fetch me  like i was his bitch.

Did the fucker not have a bloody phone?!

“What... you’re going to deny that you aren’t-” the girl starts, apparently unaware how close i was to stabbing her. 

“Where the fuck is he?” I say softly and the girls blinks, taken aback at the simmering fury in my tone..

“What are you-”

“Where the fuck is your precious oppa?” I whisper, smiling sweetly and her eyes go wide. 

“in... in the dressing rooms over there. You ...You should watch your mouth-”

“And You should watch yours. unless you want me to break it for you. Get the fuck out of my way. ” i shove past her as I stalk over to where the dressing rooms are. 

it was easy enough finding the room. I push it open and Yoongi was on his feet.

“Ae Rin-ah....” 

“Who the fuck do you think you bloody are?” I whisper, and he just stare sat me, raising an eyebrow. 

“i take it you aren’t in the mood...” He drawls. 

“What was that for? i refuse to believe that you’re enough of an idiot to do somtehing as reckless as what you just did...”

“reckless? Why the fuck is that reckless?” He rolls his eyes and I just stare at him. 

“There are staff members out there who think the only reason i’m here is because I’m fucking you..” 

“And they got that wrong didn’t they? When in fact it’s the other way round. The only reason you even fucked me was because you wanted to be here...” He sneers. 

i gawk at him in disbelief. 

“What?! Why do you look so shocked. Think I’m fucking blind? the way you got that poor idiot of a photographer wrapped around your pinky finger? Been touching his arms, smiling,  flirting  with him all day.... Think i can’t bloody see you being a slut out there?” He snarls then and I pull back. 

“You’re out of your fucking mind...” 

“Am i? I didn’t do anything wrong.  I was horny, i sent for you. Isn’t that what we’re supposed to be? Fuck buddies? i don’t see that violating any non-existent contract we drew up when this thing started. “

“And the contract specified you being a fucking dick?” i snap angrily. Yoongi scoffs. 

“ Whatever. Besides, you owe me a blowjob at least for the favor i just did you. Hooked you up with one of the best in the fiels. Jeon seok hyung sure looks like he’s going to have you riding his dick in no time. A better prospect for your career... You’re a smart little girl, baby. i’ll give you that.  ” He leans back against the dresser, crossing his legs and looking surreal. Beautiful, cruel and just plain nauseating. 

“Wow. Wow... you know what. You can keep your bloody favors to yourself. And lose my number while you’re at it.!” I barely reasis the urge to just launch myself at him and claw his filthy perfect face. 

i didn’t even bother looking at anyone else. I stalk over to my locker, grab my backpack and the id before slipping on my hoodie and walking straight out of the door. 

I find myself walking past the bus stop and past the subway and suddenly, I’m standing in the middle of the pavement with no fucking clue where i actually am. 

But honestly, that’s the least of my worries. i pull my phone out and quickly delete all the messages, and block Min Yoongi’s number. And for a second i just stare at my wall paper. it’s the photo that yoongi took of me. I look so happy, i think miserably. And there’s nothing but genuine affection in my face.

Why the fuck would he call me a manipulative person? 

And it stuns me for a second, that someone as smart as Min fucking Yoongi would say something so blatantly insulting, so blatantly... misogynistic. it makes me want to punch a wall. Or better yet, his face. But swelling just beneath the anger is a huge wave of sheer fucking hurt. Because, god fucking damn it I had thought the guy was a friend. Yes, i let him into my bed but I’d never for a seocnd considered that he thought of me as nothing more than a cheap lay. 

Worse, a cheap lay who was out to take advantage of his fame and build her career. I fight tears because seiously, that’s such a fucking low blow. 

My phone buzzes and I stare at the screen.

 Kim Namjoon calling.  

i hang up, quickly blocking his number as well. 

Fuck idols. 

Seriously, fuck them. I didn’t want anything to do with either of those idiots. Lesson learned, Ae Rin ah. 

Ugh. 

[midnatt-heronweather]

2019

My Year review, for my own reasons, starts from March 7th.

though what I will say about pre then is, it is an honour to be known by the creator (Cassandra Clare) as the first person to ever admit to being a fan of the Starkweather family after asking about them when she and Holly Black came to Manchester in February. And that I owe that little meet for making me properly look at Holly “Folk of air.” series.___________________________________________________________________________________________

Gigs:

I pick 7th of March to start this review because it is the day myself, Heather and Ally went to see Freya Ridings who had the week before had her song “Lost Without you.” played in an important scene on the final half of the final season of Shadowhunters. I didn’t get to meet her this time, so her song card is still in my folder to be signed one day, and I have hope it will.

As seems to be my song recently, I didn’t get to many gigs this year, though a lot of my fave people toured (some even reformed, but that was over in the US)Due to funds we didn’t even to any Whitby this year (any as there are 4 now may I remind the reader)

Don’t ask me why but I went to see John Barrowmans Christmas show in Harrogate. I love the man but.. I’ll stick to the normal stuff.. if you can call anything Barrowpants does as normal.

What I did get to, was see Counterfeit the week before my birthday with Ally, Jaime and co were on top form and so what I needed after a perfectly ghastly couple of weeks leading up.

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Conventions:

*Liverpool Comic Con The same weekend at the Frey Ridings gig, gave me more time with my pack on a bad week. But I’m not talking about that here.Anyway, my reason for Liverpool Comic Con this year was the chance to meet Peter Facinelli (Carlisle Cullen, Twilight / Max Lord, Supergirl)I am a after all a Twilight and a Supergirl fan and also S.W.A.T fan (but he left in s1)Peter told me he hadn’t been written out of SG to make way for the LGBT storyline, he’d asked to be left out as the show had to move filming locations and he didn’t want to be so far from his family all the year. I didn’t gloat to the Sanverse lot but it was tempting.

I also got to speak with Paul (Paul Schrier and Jason Narvy) who played Bulk from Bulk and Skull in Power Rangers, thought Jason waved. They are both sweethearts and while, as mad as their on-screen counterparts, not as annoying, I walked past Paul a few times before finally deciding to ranger up and tell him he was the first person I saw on screen and considered a role model for the “bigger” person. He told me an awesome story about another girl who because she was big had been stuck playing him until he’d fronted up to kids making her and she got to play one of the rangers.I saw the duo again at “Wales” in December and Paul remembered me when I said hi.

*Survival 4 - 2019-04-05 to 2019-04-07 -Ren, London: the first Starfury of the year, the convention I’d given an entire show a 3rd look for after finding out Sean was actually inviting the Seelie Queen herself Lola Flanery (Maddie Griffin, The 100), I’m still not sure if she was amazed, saddened or sickened by the fact me and Heather had come to the convention just for her, but it got a few laughs from Sachin Sahel (Eric Jackson, The 100) who seemed to be her escort for the weekend.I dropped to my knees in the proper greeting of the queen that Jade Hassoune (Meliorn) had taught me the year before at the first Pancon, gave her the fanmade cookbook (don’t ask) and.. I like to think we impress her with our Seelie court cosplay despite being rushed by Sean's announcing.

* Last Wales Comic Con in Telford I looked a tit. I left my shoulder piece at ally so ended up looking like some Roman surf.Meeting David Wenham didn’t go to plan in the slightest, he is my fave actor from Lord Of The Rings and yet somehow, telling him that seemed to bore him.

Russell Tovey (George, Being Human/ Ray Terrill, The Flash) was polite, but colder than I’d have expected, especially when he was so animated and nice to everyone else.

While I have Amanda Tapping auto twice from a friend, finally standing beside her (Capt Carter, Stargate / Dr Magnus, Sanctuary) was an honour, especially When she seemed to like Martouf the Symbiote, as I said my Tok’ra costume had gone to hell but her smile made it bearable.

Alexander Ludwig ( Bjorn, Vikings) was wearing a shirt from Descended from Odin, he laughed when I recognised the logo he is so far the nicest OG Vikings cast member I’ve met.

* Starfury Ultimates 4 - 2019-05-17- 2019-05-19/20 - Hilton, Birmingham:

I got to meet the love interest of my favourite Coluan, Nicole Maines (Nia Nall/Dreamer, Superigrl) and the last reason I have to watch Legends in the form of the amazing Amy Louise Pemberton (Gideon), me and Louiza did our first duo cosplay as Jareth and Sarah from The Labyrinth, though I forgot the Goblin King wears Make up, I seemed to do okay as far as the SF peeps thought.

*LFCC:

well, I’ve said all I am going to say about the lies and lack of organisation and care from the stewards. so. The con....I died, visibly, slowly, but with a lot of translating from my long suffering Parbatai Heather I managed to meet, greet and speak with BOTH Greyjoys,First I had to face them for a photo shoot, in a uniform that was smaller than it was supposed to be, I felt daft not only because it was a Starfleet uniform but because I’d dreamed of cosplaying a greyjoy and my size made it if nothing else monetarily impossible, so I threaded my OBO necklace under my collar, totally against Starfleet regs, and stepped, up, Gemma said hello and Alfie went to before seeing the octopus, I wanted the ground to open up till he beamed“its like a Star trek Greyjoy crossover!” you can guess how happy I was he liked it.At the Autograph table Gemma (Yara) revealed she’s actually a Wessie like me. When I told her she was the best actress in all of Gentleman Jack for even attempting the accent and giving her character believability she said “yes..well.. I grew up in Headingley.” to which If I hadn’t already been falling a part I would have gone to pieces, as was I think I croaked my way through “what.. seriously. Someone cool.. from my area?” or something along those lines.Facing her on-screen brother was possibly the most Fan-squee moment I can ever remember having, and that include quiet a few awesome meets in my conlife. We cued, and I suddenly found my breath was short, his PA miming asked me if I’d had a drink I nodded, he then mimed I was breathless because of Alfie and not him and that he’d fight Alfie which got me laughing, I faced Alfie, took as much concentration I could muster, telling him I’d been there since ep 1, loved the Greyjoys through everything, it was amazing, he is so sweet and so shy, more so than when we’d met him a few years ago backstage for that brief moment, thinking on it it did explain a lot, also why he had his dog Ata with him and had randomly walked past us before taking him for a walk, but standing there in front of him its..indescribable.

Also at LFCC were Zachary Quinto ( Kelvin Timeline Spock) who seemed very taken by Alfie's dog Ata, he wouldn’t do LLAP in photoshoots, at first I thought that was because of the way I approached him, I was unable to keep my breath and looked like I’d been crying, but apparently he just doesn’t do it. Lends itself to the old rumour that for the movies he had to glue his fingers to get it right doesn’t it? He was sweet, I can’t really say much else because I didn’t get the time thanks to ‘things’ to spend time talking with him.

The reason for my costume choice was Shazad Latif (by then Commander Ash Tyler, Star Trek Discovery) I’d met him the previous year but had not had the money to get a photograph with him, so that's what I did, he’s a nice lad, and doesn’t mind goofs as I remembered from last year. I saw him again at DST and told him about a scene in a recent show he did where he didn’t realise someone had accidentally mimicked his accent.

*Starfury Highlanders 4 - 2019-08-09 to 2019-08-11 - Hilton, Birmingham:

Met David Berry and finally met the Queen of Hearts Maria Doyle Kennedy.Made a fool of myself. Got told I ask to many questions and saw Sean so drunk he left hie wallet/card on top and cigars on the bar in public.Also this was the convention that determined a new personal rule. I am not doing 3 day cons for any less than 3 interesting guests. Shadowhunters cast being the exception to the rule only if its someone I’ve not met before.I try to keep to the same rule with Day cons but sometimes there's just someone who makes that impossible (Tom Burke back at a Newcastle comic con a few years ago being my go to example)

* Pandemonium con2:

3rd Shadowhunters con I’d attended.I know I shocked Matt (Alec), Luke (johnathan) and Kat (Clary) as the Owl.I’m told Dom (Jace) was shocked to and said the mask was better than the one he’d worn which we all know is just him being kind to broke overweight untalented fan.Luke is a gent, think I wierded him out asking for him to go full Johnathan in the photo, but he seemed to forgive me when I told him me and my friends Carla and Michelle had dreamcast him as Spike in the Buffy revival (and Jade as Willow obv)Chai (Jordan) is always madness, all the time. And didn’t mind getting scolded for spoilering one of his own charectars deaths to a fan (me) who’d only agreed to watch the show because of him and Lola (Seelie Queen) being in it. He took it with good humour and began discussing spoilering and its limits. He was wierded out by me A.L.I.E photoshoot idea, when most people want hugs and high fives and stuff.

my season 2 Seelie didn’t get the reaction from Jade (Meliorn) my s1 did in Milan the previous year, but I think by then he knew I was mad enough to try it, and it wasnt a direct attempt at him (not for lack of trying)He loved the Buffy notebook set and Hufflepuff hat I got him, was even wearing it at closing, though I didn’t get pics as my camera died. Wasnt surprised apparently, that I’m Hufflepuff too. Which most would have taken as a barb but just kept me grinning.I gave him Tomato crisps but he has yet to tell me the answer to the question he asked had asked me when I first found them over here “are they the real thing?”I also brought a little dragon to meet its name sake, I did considering giving him it but I think I overloaded him, he was a flattered by the likeness though, also by the smell? Guessed it was a boy angel knows how because I don’t.

I met Nicola Damude (Maryse) in Milan, but because of stuff and thangs I didn’t get to talk to her for long, so when she got announced it was heaven for me,I gave her a jar of Pontefract cakes from the Castle (still not sure why) and she asked if she could give them to her dad who loves black Liquorice, I was pleased as anything, and she asked me where Pontefract was and I for some reason said“famous for Liquorice, racing and hot pokers.” to which Ally explained and got nick laughing.Ally cosplayed Maryse which had Nic smiling like a chesire cat and her picture where Allys brought out Biromantic heart flag will go into her wall of pride flags which she puts in her window during pride week at home in Canada even when shes away working.

*Destination Star Trek 2019:

I met up with Villiana and Sarah at DST, still surprised Sarah was a Trekkie, but it made the con more interesting, intop obviously of my 5 reasons for attending despite cash flow Shazad Latif (Commander Ash Tyler), Wilson Cruz and Anthony Rapp (Dr Hugh Culber and Lieutenant Paul Stamets), Alan Van Sprang (Commander Leland/Control) and Ethan Peck (Liuetenant Spock)

When I met Wilson Cruz I gave him the picture I’d got last year to sign and told him it was for my friend who was a nurse and couldn’t attend, he said “theirs always next year” adding quickly “if we’re asked.” to which I grinned, I explained how she was a Cardiac nurse and couldn’t rearrange shifts when they (he and Anthony) got announced, how she’d binged both seasons and they were her faves. He was proud to be playing a doctor liked by a nurse.

First photo was with Ethan, I was nervous as hells. Despite the fact it seemed only I remembered the significance of Alice in Wonderland to Spock I went through with my idea, he leant over my shoulder looking interested, I was so happy even after I realised the book was facing to far right for the cover to be readable. Ethan asked about the pic when I went to his table to get his autograph and I said it was awesome,turns out I was so annoyed at myself for the way I held the book, I’d not noticed he was giving the book the Spock eyebrow till I scanned it.I asked him if he’d do me a favour when he went back on the set of Penny Dreadful and told him about Live Dom and Prosper to which he laughed and said he’d only seen Dominic the day before.

While I was cuing for Ethans auto there was a girl behind me talking about asking Shazad who was sat next to him to sign her s31 badge she’d just bought, I’ve had mine since they came out and com badges before that so I turned round and told her it would be impossible to keep in tact, she said it wouldn’t matter just because she’d been up to him to get it signed, and I looked where she’d positioned it and tried to keep myself from saying anything else, someone gave her a pen they thought would last better, a group gathered trying to talk her ionto it, and while they were talking Shazads cue wass empty so I wandered over, got my friend Michelle is auto and talked about Departure where he didn’t know for a few moments in one scene a Canadian playing a Brit hadn’t been able to help mimicking his London accent, he found it funny and couldn’t believe I noticed, I shrugged and said “two of my fave actors in one scene, I notice these things.” I told him where to look and he wrote it down. I then asked if there was any plans to try and get Ash into the section 31 show even as a hologram and he said there was a discussion going on which got me grinning, I turned round and the girls thought I’d told but I shook my head, I wanted none of it. But when I got back in Ethans line she stepped out of and went to ask him, he didn’t look very bothered about where she had it, he just liked the idea.

From day 1 There was no question I was walking out as Section 31 again, but this time, instead of being the only black badge I was one of a sea, I was however the only one to give Alan Van Sprang a 3d print copy of the ship, his ship, the NCIA-93 which he loved, said I’d out done myself (after the rune com I gave him last year) and took another Selfie I’ll never see lol

my friend Ashley took photos of the whole encounter, from Alan thinking I’d given him a box of bubble wrap to the shock on his face, he said getting the ship was 2nd in awesome only to stepping onto the set of the ship itself.We got talking, I asked him about something Nicola had said at pancon, that when he’d had his first and only scene with her he’d called her Marsee instead of Maryse and he said its true and that she’d told him she’d told the story at a con the previous month, I said it was only last week, to which Ash from over my shoulder said that I am and I quote “the number one fan in the UK and universally known in the con community as the biggest fan and a lot of people only knew of Shadowhunters because of me,” apparently that's a consensus as I found out later, and as much as I don’t think its strictly true I was honoured never the less,he wasn’t took keen on my writing, apparently Lisa looked like Lisa am or something? don’t ask.So we were chatting and suddenly I noticed this head bobbing up and down behind him, Wilson Cruz had left his place and was using a chair to do raised push ups because he was bored.I realised that I’d stood chatting to Alan longer than was strictly polite for other fans so I bowed out, Saw him again for photos, where he and Shazad made me very happy

I do feel a bit of dope, I brought my asexual flag for my photo with Wilson and Anthony, but when Anthony asked me what the colours meant my brain went blank, I have to agree to tweet him a link. At least with him and Wilson I know they check twitter lol.

When I went up to get Anthony's auto on the Culmets photo for Ally I told him the same as I’d told Wilson how about Ally binging the show and loving them, how I’d pretty much known who’d she’d go for as faves, how she's a combo of the two and how..well what I said was “Paul rocks.” to which he grinned and said “of course he does.” LOL

* Miracle Day Returns (5) 2019-11-15 to 2019-11-17 - -Ren, London: Seeing the old crowd was perfect for the last Starfury of the year (Destiny never counts)hearing from Gareth on the future potential for music, getting ribbed by Kai, and of course watching the two of them taking the piss out of John is always a riot.Seeing Kai and Eve handing Sean a peition for a 5th Miracle Day was awesome, and we know it will happen.. somewhere down the line

*Wales Comic Con Telford Takeover December: I am not standing on Aidan’s foot in the picture!That I have to be clear on, I am getting fking sick of people joking that I am. He is still laughing from a previous person in the booth and her kid., I would have gone back and asked about reshoots but door were closed and I figured Aidan had left as he was on a schedule.

Colton loved his Pokeball even if I did get them mixed up and have to get him and Adam to swap.Told me Roy end up with his arm back “sort of.” and there's no plans for him to be in the spin off but “its the future, you never know.”

Dean O’Gorman (Bragi, Almighty Johnson's) loved the fact I’d brought the cover of young Herc to be signed, and told me that it was the Pilot which explained why Ian didn’t continue as young Herc (scheduling)

Tyler confirmed he is the Superman in the spin off. I knew it was but just hearing him say it :DTyler and Colton both recognised us, it was awesome!

While I am Ify on the new location due to travel funds and things, generally the convention was awesome as always. ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Stuff

TVWith the end of Shadowhunters I have seriously been lacking new shows.I’ve tried different things and nothings stuck.Star Trek Discovery aired at the same time as Shadowhunters and was over nearly at the same time.The In-Between was interesting but isn’t getting a season 2,The Expanse s4 only started last week,Shadowhunters, TVD, Teen Wolf, Grimm, Torchwood, Xena, Bad Girls The Tribe, True Blood, Andromeda, American Horror Story, Merlin, B5, Stargate, its a short list but a special oneso I’ve started rewatches : my go to’s (see above list^) till something sneaks up.

MusicPretty much the same deal.J4de released some awesome songs, but that’s 4 songs, the EP is out ‘later’.but no new band has really grabbed me.

Upside? In November we learned that My Chem have reformed, just gotta wait and see if they record or tour outside the US. _______________________________________________________

Important

“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.” - C.S. Lewis

As always I have to have to mark those people who have made this year bareable,the good thing is this year there is no need for a piece on those who've also made it unbearable.

you know who you are, and if you don't.. assume i'm talking of you, because likely hood is I am.

"Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens." - J. R. R. Tolkien

And that is.. or was it. Goodbye 2019