#i like y’all’s content what are you thinking starting your own streaming service

[the-technicolor-yawn]

Was not expecting the downfall of watcher today

[mariacallous]

If the question hasn’t hit your For You page or Twitter feed (or group chat) yet, it will: How often do you think about the Roman Empire? The provenance of the query is a little blurry, but it maybe started with this tweet (which also references an Instagram Reel) or possibly this TikTok. Or this one. The point is, everyone is trying to figure out how often the men in their lives think about the Roman Empire.

According to one of those ur-TikToks posted by @paige.elysee earlier this week, you will be “shocked with their responses.” But if my friend group—and the WIRED Culture Slack—are any indication, the responses are simply … interesting? When I sent the question to group chats yesterday, most of the responses skewed toward, “Is this that Twitter poll? lol” or “I got asked this last night. Truly never.” In other words, they weren’t shocking but were definitely amusing. Some colleagues generously interjected with “My brain: ‘The Roman Empire is to men what girl dinner is to women’” and “My theory is that it's because that Daily Stoic podcast is so popular.” WIRED legend Steven Levy offered that he thinks about Ancient Rome, “Every time I write about Mark Zuckerberg.” But according to people who aren’t my friends, the answer is more along the lines of “every single day” or once a week or “a few times a month.”

I decided to poll WIRED colleagues. Now, I’m of the opinion that it’s kind of ridiculous to gender this question—people of all identities can be history buffs, y’all!—but maybe that’s an argument for another time. As of this writing, answers are still pouring in on the impromptu Google Form I set up, but in a group that consists of a good balance of men and women, about a fifth answered that they “never” think about the Roman Empire. “Never” was tied with “weekly,” followed by “monthly” at about 15 percent of respondents.

In my deep, morning-long investigation, there were also more than a few responses that pointed to the Cold War or Pompeii or the 1920s as time periods more worthy of contemplation. This, ultimately, led me to a theory: Dudes/people don’t think about the Roman Empire a lot, they think about media about the Roman Empire. Video games set in the Colosseum, old films like Cleopatra, roughly a million History Channel docuseries, Monty Python’s Life of Brian—these things are burned into our memories. Jay-Z was able to put Russell Crowe’s “Are you not entertained?” at the beginning of “What More Can I Say” because Gladiator was so popular. 

My own ponderings of Ancient Rome tend to hover around the persecution of Christians and the empire’s conversion to Christianity after Constantine. Then I think of Keanu Reeves. One of my former editors responded to my group text query by noting that she’d recently watched HBO’s Rome concurrently with Amazon Prime Video’s Domina to “contrast the characterizations of Octavian’s wife during the Second Triumverate.” Then I Googled this and went down a rabbit hole of my own.

This is the state of media consumption in 2023. Hollywood, hungry to adapt any story it can, has turned history into IP—shows and movies that we now watch with phones in hand and laptops open to delve into whatever new tidbit shows up onscreen. Who amongst us hasn’t lost hours on the KGB Wikipedia page after a binge-watch of The Americans or sought to fact-check The Trial of Chicago 7? Fire up any streaming service and there are hours of content about World War II. I once dedicated nearly a month of reporting to Alan Turing’s “Bombe” code-breaking machine after I saw The Imitation Game. Frankly, Turing is probably my Roman Empire. (Ask me about the Apple logo in the comments.)

As the cliché goes, history is always written by the victors. But in modern times, it often gets translated by screenwriters and then “punched-up” by studio notes. People tend to be obsessed with the past. The longer my text and Slack threads stretched, the more respondents tried to figure out why anyone was even talking about dudes and the Roman Empire in the first place. It devolved into questions about why humans are enthralled by war, the collective fascination with powerful men, and on and on and on. No one ever figured out why the meme went viral—or whether men really do think about the Roman Empire all that much, or more than people of other genders. But we were entertained.

[icannotgetoverbirds]

Again, stream of consciousness. Apparently I have a lot to say right now. Also, coffee and proper medicated-ness fuels creativity. Who knew?

Subsequent, Consequent, Content?

college costs much more than me more than it ever has in history at least i think, im never sure Probability's so rarely pure

the walls melt and it's okay i've still got so much to say little built-in tripping can't keep me from another rant

wanna learn and grow and bring new knowledge, ideas, everything but i can't brush my own damn teeth my capability's just beneath

I think what I have should be good enough I think I’m tired of being tough I think everyone deserves better than this I think monsoon season was wetter than this

I think it all started in grade five S’pposed to be easy enough, being alive At least then my needs were met Even if school was a losing bet

I tried and fought and nearly wiped on out Like some parasite, came the doubt If I can’t do this, I’ll never make it But i just can’t, i just can’t take it

It was supposed to get better then But apparently by year ten Neurotransmission machine is broken No wonder i’d wanted sleep unwoken

You didn’t take it too well, of course Mr. I’m healthy as a horse Hey man, horses are real fucked up I think you just got broke shit and luck (yup)

My rock stayed stable back then Despite everything and even when ...Eeeeh, y’know? Of course, who doesn’t? Kids these days got a dime a dozen*

I think what I have should be good enough I think I’m tired of being tough I think everyone deserves better than this I think monsoon season was wetter than this

The world is ending, ours and mine And i keep stepping out of line How i manage that when i can’t walk What i'm told and what i talk

Well that’s all beyond me, i guess I’ve always just done my best Hate to say it’s insufficient I’m trying to be more efficient

So now I’m out and on my own, Some call me baby, some call me grown I got dreams either way Given my needs, who’s to say

I think what I have should be good enough I think I’m tired of being tough I think everyone deserves better than this I think monsoon season was wetter than this

I’m tired, man, aren’t we all Everybody’s behind the ball Or in front, about to be rolled over Better hope you don’t get pulled over

God can’t help us, your god won’t And don’t act like he will, just plain don’t It’s our fucking job to fix this shit And I can’t believe someone had to say it

Quit waiting around for god to listen Quit waiting around for heaven’s glisten You worship death with unproven afterlife And don’t bother trying to make better this life

Jesus fuck, good lord, oh god, And whatever else to not nod Along to that monster’s preachers We’re people, man. We’re just creatures.

I think what I have should be good enough I think I’m tired of being tough I think everyone deserves better than this I think monsoon season was wetter than this

Entitled generation, let’s go with that I don’t mind wearing that tired hat Just know we know what we deserve Y’all ain’t once protect and serve

At least we’re kind to the ones that serve us At least we know the value of service At least we ask for our money’s worth You know, what you’ve had, like, since birth?

I’m sick and tired of right-wing asshats Nazi salutes and red slogan maga hats History is repeating, you’re failing the test It’s open, note, my guy, is this really your best?

And yeah, some people are a little soft Aren’t you, too, up in your loft? Going on about how much it peeves you, endless That people exist, till you’ve left yourself breathless

I think what I have should be good enough I think I’m tired of being tough I think everyone deserves better than this I think monsoon season was wetter than this

The kids before us, they had hopes But you never bothered to show them the ropes Now we see what’s really occurring The world’s collapsing, we’ve been inferring

Every little girl wants to be a princess Then I realized I’d have to settle for less Vet seemed too far off in addition I didn’t have the money, despite my volition

So writer, then editor, then anything at all So long as it pays, I’ll answer the call My dreams seemed excessive, I needed to be alive How are you supposed to do anything but survive

Of course, even then, it couldn’t be that easy The wind’s picking up, it’s getting pretty breezy My body, my mind, my heart, my soul Keep acting up, despite the pull

I think what I have should be good enough I think I’m tired of being tough I think everyone deserves better than this I think monsoon season was wetter than this

So now, here we are, hopeless and helpless Unless you get off of your ass and start to help us** You made this mess, you need to help clean it It’s no way to live, knee-high in bullshit

The people that need to hear this just won’t They totally could if they chose, they don’t I should know, it’s the way I used to be I look at them, I see a past version of me

Listen, I’ve been there, done that song and dance But damn it, for once, will you try to take a chance? Listen to something that isn’t Fox or trump Pull your head out of your own fucking rump

I think what I have should be good enough I think I’m tired of being tough I think everyone deserves better than this I think monsoon season was wetter than this

~~

*this is not a dig at 'kids these days'

**the you is directed at the people who made this mess in the first place and the people who have the means to but do not change things for the better. people who care but feel too trapped to do something are okay, and people who are doing literally anything at all? lightspeed, soldiers. lightspeed.

**Edit: the first you is actually directed at my piece of shit father, the you's from the double asterisks on is as previously stated. deadass forgot there was another you in there lmao

it takes a village

tbh this could be put to music, if someone wants to then maybe I'll sing it, but apparently im not half-bad at writing songs so like ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Wildfire

the dragon beast burned our shit i grabbed on and didn't let go you and me, we fought against it until it was no more

and oh we were so tired exhausted, wiped out, just done and i think about how im wired wasn't this supposed to be fun?

so tell me, my dear love why oh why is it happening again raining from the maw above and what did we do then?

I said, well maybe, it's time for a burn Maybe there's a better way, maybe we need to learn You said 'you're on your own, kid, and this is your fault, so" hum idk

Chorus:

Get it together, man Get outta this house Pull your head from the sand Practice what you espouse

Maybe you need some help Ain't that what family is for Too bad they won't scruff this whelp Cause they're just too damn poor

End chorus

So you worked and worked and worked and I rested i guess way too much "Dontcha know god's labor's never shirked? You should be doing as such"

Beholden to no god except each other Beholden to the safety of my mother What do you do when home's not home What do you do when you're alone?

Chorus:

Get it together, man Get outta this house Pull your head from the sand See what you espouse

Maybe you need some help Ain't that what family is for Too bad they won't carry this whelp Cause they're just too damn poor

End chorus

So home was a house again Never to return, I hope I went through some real shit then God, what a tired trope

Traffic's no place to play, you know Better than that sad place, though I saw the mountains, close enough To walk up to them, sure it'd be tough

bridge:

It'd be worth it It's all been worth it This world wants me dead the people want me alive it's just like i said i can't work a nine to five (right now i hate being right)

new chorus:

I got something going, man I'm outta house My head's a bit fogged and well, at least there's no louse

I'm getting some good help Aint that what family is for The world's gotta carry this old whelp Now that he's damn poor

end chorus and song(?)

anyways maybe i could add more to the end of it but it already feels pretty long. could also do some editing in general but here y'all go lmao

[miscelunaaa]

hiatus announcement

content warning: mental health struggles and salt with the community at large. 

I’m taking an indefinite hiatus from Tumblr.

My policy with this space has always been one of openness. I think open lines of communication help humanize me as a writer, and it helps remind me that the people I interact with are human too. 

I’m not going to lie, I came perilously close to deleting my blog last night. A number of things stopped me, including the shred of rationality I cling to even now. Knowing that this space is the only way some folks access my work also stopped me, because I don’t want to rob them of something they might need when they need it. Much as I prefer a space like AO3, this one has been important for me too; blowing it all away like dust in the wind just doesn’t seem right, tempting as it may be. 

I’ve been forthcoming with my mental health struggles. They’re not fun. They’re not cute. My anxiety is like this beast that just sits around my shoulders and whispers shitty things to me to think about myself. I can’t lie, this community isn’t really friendly to that. There are individuals in this community that are just genuinely obsessed with themselves and frankly, I’m not here to feed egos anymore. I’m not here to give writers the attention they so crave. I crave it too; we all do. So why is it a problem when I don’t read your work, but when you don’t read mine it’s just whatever? That’s like really fucked up, right?? Not just me?

I have been in the weeds for like two months now. More than, really; this festering feeling started before I’d finished posting Cuffing Szn. And when it comes down to it, it’s because this community is obsessed with attention and beating whatever algorithms are at play on this platform. I’m so fucking sick and tired of people asking for attention and engagement. Y’all have lost the plot on what fan fiction is. 

Social media (which, fight me, Tumblr is still unequivocally a social media service, even if it is also a blogging platform it talks the talk like a social network) is ruining fics. We’re not cherishing cultivating a tiny community of our own any longer. Writers are hungry for growth and fuck, as if this is some influencer market, it’s just killing creativity. No one feels the need to innovate or get weird with their stories. No one wants to fucking grow as a writer anymore, they just want to grow their follower base so they have a constant stream of riotous praise regardless of if their writing or ideas are even fucking good.

Does that not seem fucked up to anyone else? 

I’m not looking for feedback on this. If you want to talk, you can bring it to me on Discord. I know I’ll regret this shit in an hour. In minutes. I’ve made a lot of generalizations that don’t hold out when you just take a moment to really look and find writers to love. They do exist. There are wonderful people in this community. The shitty ones are just being louder than I can tolerate right now.

tl;dr

Fics shouldn’t be a popularity contest and yet they are. I’m having a hard time taking part in this shit because of it. So I’m taking a break. I’ll be back when I feel like I can be, on my terms. 

[somanyerikas]

Nostalgia sells - or does it? About BBC’s rehiring of a previous showrunner for Doctor Who as a marketing strategy

All, right, this is the one where I deal with my issues about RTD’s rehiring from the standpoint of BBC’s business strategy . Brace for passive agression, swearwords, brief history of british television and numbers. So, so many numbers.

Allright, so I already wrote a post about my problem with RTD’s (re)hire from the creative standpoint (it’s here in case you’re interested), but hey, I can bitch about it all I want, but we all know what caused the BBC to make this decision, right? You’ve heard about it for sure. The Dropping Ratings. You’ve read about it on so many posts, lots of them probably oh-so-gladly conflating this fact with their own opinion about the deteriorating quality of the show. (Don’t worry, we’ll get to that.) So Obviously the execs at the Big BBC Quarters needed to do something about it, and what better way to go than rehire a guy who’s run at Doctor Who is a warm childhood memory for so many in it’s fanbase? After all, it’s what we’re seeing nowadays: from Star Wars return to wave of 80′s nostalgia to every old blockbuster star doing a comeback, there is but a single conclusion - nostalgia sells.

Or does it?

Part One: Moving with the change; or very much refusing to.

Let’s start this off with some facts about the ratings for Doctor Who. (Well, I warned you there’s gonna be numbers, didn’t I. Stick with me, I’m going somewhere with this I promise.) In it’s beginnings, in the sixties and seventies , the series flown high, averaging a viewership from 8 up to 10 million viewers per season. Collin Baker’s series 17 brought in a record of 11.21 milion viewer asses in front of a good ol’ TV screen, real champagne opener here. But, as it happens, things were downhill from here. During the eighties, the rating started dropping steadily, reaching an all-time low of 4.15 milion couch-warming bottoms in 1989, the last season of the classic era. 

Years passed, 16 of those years to be exact, and here comes our saviour RTD. Under his wings, the revived series premiered, bringing in over 10 milion viewers to the premiere episode of season 1, Rose. A viewership this high did not last for long, but still, RTD’s seasons averaged between 7 and 8 milion viewers per season, which seemed pretty respectable. But then, as the story likes to repeat itself, not unlike the bbc execs just did, along came the decline again. Ever since 2010, the ratings began steadily dropping again, from 7.95 in 2010 to 5.46 in 2017. Then DW experienced an unexpected peak in 2018 with the premiere of Jodie Whittaker’s first season, which averaged 7.96 viewing asses, but then continued the dropping trend on the next season, averaging 5.40 viewing butts.

So what went wrong?

You see, part of the reason that Doctor Who was bringing in such great viewership numbers in the 60′s and 70′s, was that, to put it simply, BBC did not have much competition. Or, to be exact, only had one competitor. ITV was literally founded in order to break BBC’s monopoly over British television. But in the 80′s, with the launch of Channel 4 and Sky, the british viewers had more and more options to choose from. So logically speaking, they no longer had to watch BBC’s programming just because there was nothing else on. There was more and more new programes to boredom-watch. And here’s something y’all need to know about the tv industry: the boredom-watchers, the casuals? That’s the most important demographic. As hard as it might be to swallow, us hardcore fans, forum dwellers and Ao3 gremlins, we’re not as big of a group as we’d like to think. Loving fans are important to the tv execs as providers of word-of-mouth advertisment, but the real numbers come from the casual, everyday viewer who will just put on the next episode cause the other one was kinda fun I guess. Or more fun than the other options, anyway.

And this is why, by the way, when someone is conflating low viewership with the show Dissapointing The Fans, they’re full of shit. I’m sorry, but we’re really not that much of a force here, definitely not enough to make such a big impact on the numbers. Another factor, that some of you probably noticed already, is that the numbers I’m quoting are from british tv only, while the online fandom is very much international, so our opinions matter even less to the british execs, I’m sorry again, hard pill to swallow I know, but true nonetheless.

But I digress. So, to sum up the previous paragraph, Doctor Who’s viewership decline in the 80′s was the effect of the changing landscape of the TV industry, with which the BBC struggled to come to terms with.

Sound familiar?

Let’s move on to the 2010′s, shall we?

2010 was is actually a good marker of a year to choose, because it marks one important thing that begun a big change in the industry. This was the year in which Netflix expanded their services overseas, from being a DVD rental company to providing VOD services. Over the next decade streaming services grew in importance, from being an add-on to your cable TV that you didn’t really want but they were throwing it in for cheap, to very much self-sustainable media services you might very well buy instead of buying the cable. And if you look at the numbers for Doctor Who viewership declining over the last 10 years, that’s precisely what’s been happening. It’s not that people don’t want to watch Doctor Who on tv, they don’t want to watch tv in general. Do you know what was the most popular channel in Britain this year? Can you guess? Fucking Netflix that’s what. It’s just slowly-yet-steadily ceasing to be the way we use home entertainment anymore. Again, not much to do with the audience approval, because for that matter, let’s see about the specific episodes that saw the spikes in viewership. 

Rose, which i mentioned at the start of it, was for the longest time the unquestionable queen when it comes to viewership, at 10.81 milion. The next episode, The End of the World, pulled in 7.97 - almost 3 millions worth of lost viewer-butts in one week? Is it because it was so much worse than it’s predecessor? No, it simply did not have the smell of Newness, the Event You Must See, and as such brought forth less of the casual viewers who were simply curious about The New Thing. The next season followed the similar formula, peaking at the premiere, when the marketing was at it’s strongest, going down during the season, sometimes rising slightly for the finale, sometimes not. The most popular episodes are, of course, the specials - yet again, the vibe of The Event To Be Seen worked here, but one more thing working to their advantage is they often aired in spaces between seasons, serving as both a long-waited Crumbs of Content for the fans, and the basically stand-alones for the casuals. Do you know what the single most watched episode of revived DW is? No, it’s not Tennant’s goodbye with the role (yeah I know, I thought it had to be that as well). It was Voyage of the Damned, between seasons 3 and 4. The perfect standalone for the casual watcher. And last but not least, you know one more special feature that brought, maybe not as much, but definitely more than expected? The 1996 movie Doctor Who, with 9.08 million. Again, a perfect standalone.

But the standalones aren’t the only way to grab the viewership. The currently-highest viewing non-special episode of DW? The Woman Who Fell to Earth, Jodie Whittaker’s introduction. In 2018 no less, in the year when the streaming was the ruler supreme, this episode brought a whooping 10.96 million buts to the good ol’ TV again. Let me reiterate: this episode brought in more viewers than Rose did in 2005, while having WAY more competition and way less favorable circumstances of release that RTD’s debiut did. Not only that, it managed to bring on some numbers for the entire season as well, not as good of course as the premiere (because again, the Event vibes faded), but still brought a better average than the last six seasons did. (Again, let me reiterate: more than the last SIX seasons. More viewership than any series since 2010, since the Streaming Wars.) So clearly, this must be the way, right? Catering to this Weird New Trend, that saw directors notice there do in fact exist other actors than white men, that surely brought in some profit, even Marvel does it now, right? Out with the old, in with the new!

Part 2 The Deceitful Charm of Nostalgia

Well, it turns out the whole Doing New Things deal didn’t work out that well after all, now did it? The second season penned by Chibbnal averaged 5.40 milion, that’s 2.5 million drop from the previous one! It must mean it didn’t work, right? Well, yes and no. As much as the refreshment of the formula as simple as Let’s Put A Woman In It absolutely worked for one season, it very visibly did not hold up for longer. An Event-Episode is something that can still happen on TV, Event-Series? That’s pretty much reserved for streaming now, if you think about it, and it’s honestly kind of a miracle that Series 11 did as well as it had. Two consecutive Event-Series on network tv? Flat out impossible. 

So how to make those ratings great again? How to get those butts in seats of the Good Ol’? Well, the execs of the BBC have a plan for that. They brought in a devouring beast, and it’s name is: Nostalgia.

Without a doubt, there is a number of people who feel nostalgic about RTD’s era of Doctor Who. It’s a lot of people’s fond childhood memory, or the series they started with, and judging by the numbers, there should be quite a lot of them. So the new plan, as it appears, is to get to those who maybe lost interest in the show and lure them with the promise of the thing That Is Totally Like The Thing You Used To Love, Remember? (This is why I don’t actually think that RTD will be allowed to do anything new and interesting, that’s not what they hired him for. And that’s why I think this is bad from the creative standpoint.) So there are two questions here: One, will the people be lured? And two, for how long?

Nostalgia as a marketing strategy is something that you’re probably sick of seeing already (I know I am). But it has very much been effective on many levels, especially the eighties-baiting, Stranger Things style, can bring a new IP up to relevance. But what about old IP’s that want to have a comeback? 

It’s kind of dificult to find another TV show that I could compare to Doctor Who. Most series that have been running for that long are mostly soap operas, that operate on slightly different rules, and are also targeted to a different audience. So as much as the movie series is still not exactly the best comparison, when I think about a big IP, campy sci-fi, family-oriented (at least in theory) on its path back to relevance, I think about Star Wars, obviously. The Force Awakens gambled on that nostalgic feeling and won big, but the next two movies, while still financially successful, were nowhere near the astounding success of the first one. And that’s because - you guessed it - it created the Event You Must See again, The Great Comeback, but merely two years later, the comeback became old news. So what we can gain from that is that nostalgia can create an Event as well as a new trend, if not better. But the question remains: how long will that last?

That is, after all, the main difference between a movie franchise and a TV series in the traditional, network TV sense of the word: movie franchise must bring in the viewership every year or two, and TV series must bring in viewers every week for at least two months. Is RTD’s Nostalgia Vibes enough to provide for that?

I’ll say this: I’m absolutely certain that the 60th anniversary will be very popular. I still don’t think it will break any records because, as I’ve been trying to explain for this whole post, it is not 2007 anymore no matter how much the tv execs would like it to be. But ironically, the almost-certain success of the special is the very thing that could undermine the effect of bringing their precious Nostagia Boi back onboard. Remember, the first Event Episode is The Big Oof. That’s the one that gets asses to the Good Ol’, if anything ever does. After the first big event one, that’s the point when things start going down. They’re wasting their Special Event Boi for something that already would be an event, dear fucking gods, I hate your plan and I would still execute it better. Either have RTD be the Anniversary Guy and then hire someone new, use that hype and keep it going, OR have RTD come in after the anniversary, then at least you get the Event Effect for the premiere of his first return season. Fukin’ amateurs.

But even if they did that, here’s the thing: do you think that the people who departed from the show years ago actually want to watch another three to five seasons of The RTD Show? I mean, I’m sure the thought warmed some hearts, for sure. A number of people will definitely gladly watch the anniversary, probably the first few episodes of the first return to the basics, but after that? In the world when, due to streaming, they have an easy way to revisit the actual thing they’re nostalgic towards? I honestly don’t think so. And you’re not really gonna get many new people by going back, if that nostalgia factor isn’t there. And then there’s casual viewers, the backbone, as we established. And here’s the thing: lots of those people don’t even know who the current showrunner is, cause they’re not Terminally Online like we are, and the second thing? Lots of those people ARE JUST NOT WATCHING NETWORK TV, IM SORRY GARRY. They’re just. They’re just not. I don’t know how to spell it out better. Even my mum has netflix now. Your biggest base is in another castle mate, gotta get moving and gotta get moving quick, cause here’s another thing: all the nostalgia in the world will not do SHIT for you if your target, people who were kids/teens when the RTD era was airing, PROBABLY DON’T EVEN HAVE A FUCKING TV ANYMORE CAUSE THEY MOVED OUT OF THEIR PARENTS FLAT AND LOTS OF YOUNG PEOPLE JUST DON’T BOTHER. Just. I’m sorry but you’re trying to resuscitate a decade-deceased corpse there buddy. It just won’t work. The times have changed and you gotta swim or drown, and it’s just not gonna be 2005 again, no matter how hard you pretend it is. It’s not your content it’s your business model. Just push more marketing for your iplayer or whatever, focus on streaming as your primary not your secondary cause that’s just what it is now, and maybe don’t rely on the viewer-counting systems of the yesteryear to evaluate your business. Or else you’re gonna get stuck sacrificing the creative growth of your show for a marketing strategy that probably won’t even fucking WORK.

There, I got it of my chest. Feel free to reblog, and also: you somehow got to the end of this, congrats! I’ll make numbers nerds out of y’all yet.

[maraudingforflesh]

SakuAtsu

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29129124/chapters/71509197

again, like this (55,735 words); they hook up for the first time after they’ve both lost at nationals during their last year of high school and then they keep hooking up even when kiyoomi is in college and atsumu is in the pro league

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29004675/chapters/71185563

安心 (Peace of Mind) (84,717 words); this behemoth of a fic is a straight up masterpiece centered on kiyoomi as he grows up and thinks about volleyball and atsumu

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27206239/chapters/66454693

Stick With You (99,365 words); at the start of the pandemic kiyoomi and atsumu end up stuck on an island in the Philippines after the rest of the team manages to

make it home to Japan without them

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29473077/chapters/72398289

ATSU101: how to fall in love with your fake boyfriend (110,679 words); college!au in which atsumu needs a fake date to a party and kiyoomi needs a fake boyfriend to scare off a suitor

https://archiveofourown.org/works/30823448

Uncover (3,928 words); 5 times the team realizes kiyoomi and atsumu are closer than they thought +1 time they get an explanation

https://archiveofourown.org/works/26645923

Through the Years (14,376 words); au where they’re high school sweethearts who broke up before kiyoomi joined the jackals but a team trip and a blizzard might help them reconcile

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28938666

No Hard Feelings (9,313 words); they’re fwb but they’re also much more than that even if feelings are hard and kiyoomi takes a while to figure it out

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29260299/chapters/71852220

but we're not, like, in love (17,303 words); the team makes them share a room since they’re both so keen on random hookups during away games and they start hooking up with each other but they’re not like in love or whatever

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25394974

lay it on me (no, really) (4,261 words); atsumu volunteers to be kiyoomi’s body pillow during away game hotel stays

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27976293/chapters/68521347

as long as you’re drunk (43,739 words); inunaki tells the team about an article he read that says people who sleep together five consecutive times always fall in love and kiyoomi and atsumu figure their current count of 13 times is really only 4 when you eliminate the times they were drunk so as long as one or both of them is drunk they can keep having sex without falling in love

https://archiveofourown.org/works/30624719

When I say I love you, only you know what I mean (20,778 words); they’re best friends and roommates and they’re going through shit in their own ways and atsumu brings kiyoomi on vacation with him

https://archiveofourown.org/works/26250040/chapters/63894739

Dysfunctional (27,175 words); their love story starts in high school, but they need some time to grow up and really be able to make this thing work

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27443362/chapters/67088767

Within Sight, Within Mind (25,954 words); when kiyoomi heads to college and atsumu heads to the pro league they start Skyping to stream volleyball matches together and things progress from there

https://archiveofourown.org/works/30528402

lovin' you is a gift (in and of itself) (17,270 words); kiyoomi showers atsumu with gifts but atsumu doesn’t need to have his love bought

https://archiveofourown.org/works/30654398/chapters/75630854

didnt see this comin (6,072 words); teammates, best friends, and now roommates

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28666158/chapters/70272810

Smoke and Mirrors (48,713 words); a photo of them making out at a charity event goes viral - cue fake dating and complicated feelings

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28675323

habits shaped like you (5,314 words); domestic roommates content is the shit y’all (also I’m a sucker for atsumu being soft)

https://archiveofourown.org/works/31431962/chapters/77739170

The Dos and Don’ts of Loving Sakusa Kiyoomi (15,076 words); the team has a competition to see who can get kiyoomi to smile or laugh the most and atsumu really wants to win

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27843829

two pump chumps (12,646 words); kiyoomi throws their competition for most service aces leading to this very sweet fic that is mostly just porn

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25760554

every action has an equal and opposite reaction (10,485 words); it takes a Calvin Klein ad for kiyoomi to realize he’s in love with atsumu

https://archiveofourown.org/works/30744863

Roll On, Seventh Wheel (8,857 words); atsumu is finally kiyoomi’s best friend but now apparently every member of their team wants to be kiyoomi’s boyfriend

https://archiveofourown.org/works/26703058

Clipped To You (8,174 words); kiyoomi starts wearing hair clips and it’s kind of ruining atsumu’s life

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25675576

I Promise To Show Up (24,169 words); soulmates!au in which kiyoomi can see the red string of fate but he wishes he couldn’t

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29512401

Love Like This (12,433 words); in which kiyoomi is a college student who doesn’t want to go to a party and atsumu is his best friend who’s already gone pro and makes him go to the party

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29607435

laid bare, right there (26,690 words); 5 times they tell each other what to do +1 time they don’t need to - a love story told using alcohol as an extended metaphor

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25637944/chapters/62238292

Some Memories, We May Keep (31,552 words); moments missing from the canon in which they fall in love and atsumu contemplates the value of memories

https://archiveofourown.org/works/26609455

the affective presence of our black and white reruns (19,550 words); atsumu and kiyoomi meet at the youth training camp and atsumu wants him and they keeps meeting and seeing each other and atsumu keeps wanting even when they’re on the same team even when they’re sleeping together

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25748848/chapters/62528731

parallax error: angle of inclination (10,986 words); the story of their relationship from the time kiyoomi joins the black jackals to their first kiss as told by atsumu

https://archiveofourown.org/works/26213260/chapters/63796210

parallax error: line of sight (11,642 words); companion piece for the above fic telling the story from kiyoomi’s pov

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25525333/chapters/61930975

Tale as old as time (14,448 words); taking pictures of somebody just bc you like being around them and watch to capture the moment so you can post it and brag about getting to be part of that is so intimate y’all the onsen trip in this fic took me out

https://archiveofourown.org/works/26529025

golden ties, fluffy pillows and plastic wraps (14,862 words); atsumu convinces kiyoomi to attend a gala dinner with him and even gets him to coordinate their outfits so they match (y’all the other fics in this series are also so good pls read)

https://archiveofourown.org/series/1911892

know you better & related stories (series); they don’t click when kiyoomi first joins the black jackals but they make an effort to get to know each other for the sake of volleyball

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28847175

my first kiss (went a little like this) (6,384 words); atsumu offers to teach kiyoomi how to kiss

https://archiveofourown.org/series/1883938

we call everything on the ice, "love" (series); figure skating!au in which they start as a pair then move to singles skating then fall back together eventually

https://archiveofourown.org/works/23589403

three roses and a smile (19,768 words); academia!au in which kiyoomi is a surgeon and atsumu is a microbiology researcher

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25849213/chapters/62802427

Above Average. (27,498 words); kiyoomi brings atsumu home to meet his family and it doesn’t exactly go well

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28736619

gold rush (18,053 words); atsumu makes it his mission to befriend kiyoomi once he joins the jackals and he’s nothing if not persistent

https://archiveofourown.org/series/1864450

This love isn’t crazy (series); their relationship chronicled by vlogs

https://archiveofourown.org/works/30734699

2AM Solace (8,999 words); running into atsumu in the laundry room in the middle of the night became part of kiyoomi’s routine

https://archiveofourown.org/works/22859008

Notice (7,034 words); atsumu is the third person to find out about his own crush on kiyoomi

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25444576

The Jacket In Your Closet (8,681 words); atsumu gives kiyoomi his jacket when he’s having a panic attack and kiyoomi holds onto it for years

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27190837

Confessions of a V-League Setter (3,309 words); kiyoomi has never been confessed to and atsumu intends to fix that

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27637051

Intertwined (25,886 words) soulmates!au in which you body swap with your soulmate

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27028369/chapters/65984323

Better Together (17,004 words); atsumu proposes with a Twinkie while he’s drunk and kiyoomi still says yes

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27912220

The Love Language of Hair Toner (6,369 words); soulmates!au in which you have a strip of hair the same color as your soulmate’s

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28464351

intervention fer yer weird obsession (5,186 words); atsumu is a little obsessed with kiyoomi’s moles

https://archiveofourown.org/works/24599536/chapters/59422036

Who Could Have Seen This Coming? (16,706 words); kiyoomi invites atsumu over on impulse bc atsumu is having a bad day and it turns out kiyoomi maybe likes him and his company

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28423044/chapters/69648837

confessions (9,587 words); kiyoomi was an atsumu fanboy through high school and university and now that he’s atsumu’s irl boyfriend he can never let atsumu know his secret

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27811675

People Will Say We’re in Love (9,576 words); Twitter thinks they’re together so they try their best to disprove that without much success

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28558275

Notice (5,450 words); atsumu having dyslexia is one of my favorite things and I like this very sweet fic about it

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27074200/chapters/66106201

A Liar’s Truth (49,668 words); kiyoomi is raised to believe that gay people go to hell but atsumu’s thighs might be worth the risk

https://archiveofourown.org/series/1983235

commit to memory (series); domestic fics in which they figure out intimacy with one another

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29350110

On Love and Onigiri (20,595 words); au in which atsumu is an author who really wants to impress book critic kiyoomi

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27757792

i’ll do anything you say (if you say it with your hands) (7,612 words); atsumu draws words and shapes on kiyoomi while they do partner stretches at practice

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27386530

I wish to live in a world (24,835 words); story from komori’s POV centered on how he sees his cousin fall in love and grow up

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29106117

Touch (8,815 words); abo fic in which kiyoomi hates alphas but never really manages to hate atsumu

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28437999

The Self-Inflicted Torment of Loving Miya Atsumu (28,847 words); atsumu keeps flirting with iwaizumi despite oikawa’s return and kiyoomi is suffering (also the first fic in the series is the same story covering the iwaoi perspective and it is also v good and cute)

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29869011

liked and subscribed (26,470 words); kiyoomi is a camboy as a side hustle and he starts sexting one of his subscribers

https://archiveofourown.org/works/30228108/chapters/74488023

Stuck in the Sunshine (73,925 words); atsumu is a virgin with a bucket list of firsts and kiyoomi offers to help him check them off

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28620252/chapters/70148025

The Story of Us (98,234 words); after a car accident and a traumatic brain injury kiyoomi is left with amnesia and atsumu is left the only person who still remembers that they were secretly in love with each other

https://archiveofourown.org/works/24419953

liminal spaces (25,969 words); atsumu becomes fixated on his interactions with kiyoomi and has a hard time processing his emotions and

https://archiveofourown.org/works/26996737/chapters/65899813

Accidentally in Lust (40,483 words); atsumu accidentally sends kiyoomi a dick pic and things spiral from there

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29303172

let me be the unspoken letters on your lips (5,975 words); college!au - they’re very open about their relationship and it isn’t their fault if no one believes them - and they were roommates!

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29601684

Nails, Hair, Hips, Heels (8,638 words); look they’re both hot and painfully aware of how attractive each other are

https://archiveofourown.org/works/23393830

Brushing my fingers through those silky locks (10,452 words); washing someone’s hair to calm them down from a panic attack is a love language

https://archiveofourown.org/works/27377815/chapters/66904276

today of all days (13,760 words); kiyoomi struggles with mental health and misdiagnoses but he also heals

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25397929

Miscommunicating (4,773 words); they have a fwb deal and atsumu doesn’t realize he’s in love until osamu calls him out for carrying wet wipes

https://archiveofourown.org/series/2049654

Carnaval des Animaux (Carnival of Animals) (series); au in which kiyoomi is an Olympic figure skater

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29935584

two slow dancers (6,250 words); “shut up” “make me” the fic

https://archiveofourown.org/works/24225535

ink blossoms (8,186 words); tattoo artist/florist!au

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29175837

The Devil’s Trill (9,262 words); orchestra!au

https://archiveofourown.org/works/23517244

Orientations in Planetary Orbits (3,813 words); atsumu and kiyoomi accidentally swap sweatshirts after practice and it sends kiyoomi into a bit of a crisis

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29318220

sakusa kiyoomi's boyfriend is who? (8,463 words); apparently kiyoomi has a boyfriend but atsumu doesn’t know that he’s the boyfriend

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28814007/chapters/70667205

Pulling Gravity (30,346 words); their relationship through the years - atsumu has a pull like the sun moving kiyoomi and drawing him into orbit

https://archiveofourown.org/works/29025777

Let The Ground Rumble And Shake (2,411 words); atsumu suffers a head injury during practice

https://archiveofourown.org/works/25694983

four leaf clover (5,973 words); hyper mobility is a curse that kiyoomi has worked to turn into a weapon for volleyball

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28582266/chapters/70049214

Here Is Your Verse (15,556 words); atsumu ends their FWB deal and kiyoomi shouldn’t care but absolutely does

https://archiveofourown.org/works/26044960

halcyon (2,223 words); atsumu isn’t sleeping well but kiyoomi helps with that

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28671468

alliance (3,354 words); their fake relationship is just a mutually-beneficial arrangement until it is definitely more than that

https://archiveofourown.org/works/30406824

WHAT IN CARNATION (10,661 words); atsumu has hanahaki

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28061016

too busy being yours (9,026 words); kiyoomi has hanahaki

https://archiveofourown.org/series/1921516

Terminal Curiosity (series); obviously these are porn and centered on BDSM but damn if they aren’t also character-driven masterpieces

[djxrxn]

more cuddle headcanons

everyone really liked the cuddle hcs for the main three bucket boys, (which is right here!!), and i wanted to try out some characters that i would like to write for in the future. this post is all star wars characters, i’ll make a different post later on with the pascal characters !!

also, the phasma fic is taking A Bit Longer because it’s going to be a pretty big fic (it’s currently at 5.1 k and i still have a lot to work on). school also just started, so please bear with me!! i will have it up as soon as possible, in the meantime, i’ll post some smaller projects like this!! enjoy!!

warnings: cursing, some mentions of sexual content

w/c: about 2.1k

cobb vanth

i honestly think an argument can be made that cobb vanth is one of the most partner-material guys in the galaxy far far away. he’s very personable, he’s overall pretty warm - he’s an expert in affectionate, sweet shit. he’s always bringing up cuddling together or curling up in the corner of the cantina of Mos Pelgo, you’re not gonna have to strong arm him for love at all!

i think cobb likes to lay on you - like he’ll lay his head on your tummy or in your lap. play with his hair, scratch his head, maybe sing your marshal a little song !! i dont see him falling asleep, but if YOU’RE tired, he’ll absolutely do the same thing for you - you can lay on him, and he’ll sing  little tune and you can drift off to sleep.

little spoon, don’t EVEN try to argue, this man is the little spoon, please hold him, wrap your arms around him, he loves it !! he’ll lay his head on your chest, or lean his head back to give you little kisses and wink at you. 

very fine with pda, actually speaking of kisses, will steal them all DAY long. you’re trying to work on the speeder bike that’s been busted for months?? cobb is gonna be hanging around your work station, waitin for the perfect moment to give you a little peck on the cheek. (). i dont even think he’s a like “cuddly partner,” i think he’s just super friendly, and if he’s in a relationship, he’s gonna want to be hanging around you and getting a bunch of affection. and AGAIN no toxic masculinity here - there’s no shame or like embarrassment when you want to hold hands or kiss in public, like he’s all for it!

okay i- this is not necessarily sexual, but okay hear me out. i live somewhere super hot, and the best way to be is inside, in the dark, fan on high and as little clothes as possible. so i think for somewhere like mos pelgo, if he’s got some down time at home, he’s absolutely stripping down to as few layers as possible (if at all). so you know, dont be surprised if you’re hanging out at his place, and he walks around in like his (underwear), it’s just really hot and he has to wear a lot of layers, he’s sweating 

bo katan kryze

fuck you, i like bo

this will be a short section just because she is not very cuddly at all, and in general, is pretty cold and icy. i don’t know if she doesn’t like affection and pda if she’s just not interested, or if she’s extremely defensive and really wants to push that she’s a stone cold badass and has no weaknesses. 

if you manage to get bo to sort of slow down and relax, and she is in a relationship with you, she’ll show affection in like acts and services, specifically when it comes to your safety. like she’ll run extra patrols and will do everything in her power to make sure you are never in danger. the most cuddly she gets is when you sleep next to her every night, and even then you both have like Your Own Space when sleeping. listen, there’s probably a lot of depth in bo katan, and how much she’s lost (a lot of it sort of her own fault), and how much she wants to regain and take back, and the lengths she is willing to go to, and like listen we all have weak moments, like obviously she’s gonna wanna have your head in her lap SOMETIMES. but she’s also a top and SHe’s BuSY so you know.

koska reeves & axe wolves

i’m combining these two here in one section, wow

FUCK YOU, I LIKE AXE. out of all three of the like Mandalore mandalorians, i think he’s the most like affectionate. i think once you win him over, and show you’re not gonna ghost him or like idk try to kill him, i think he’s pretty casual. you can lay on him, and he’s cool with laying on you. he’s not really embarrassed with pda - he’s not like Against it completely, but he likes a quick kiss here and there. very sweet boy, very kind and gentle, he will flirt with you even after you get together, like its a constant stream of like cheesy pick up lines and one liners, he’s very dorky. just a dumb nerd, why are y’all so MEAN to him smh embarrassing

koska…,..,.,..,.., what a WOMAN. i think she’s like halfway between axe and bo in terms of affection in a relationship. like i think you have to build up a lot of trust, and establish a like respect between the two of you, but like she has no problem with letting you lounge around and curl up with her. i also think she’s gonna be protective, but honestly that’s a mando thing. they care about the people who care about them. i don;t think she gives a single fuck, so if you want to makeout in public, or even just want to hold her hand because your nervous, she absolutely wil let you like she does not seem the kind to like deny/reject you, you know? anyways i am in love with koska, sasha banks i am free every day i love u queen we stan

fennec shand

the one the ONLY. the most exciting thing about fennec is that she literally doesn’t give a fuck, so pda?? yeah, if you like fennec’s hand on your waist and her tongue down your throat and don’t mind other people around, shes super down with giving you some love in public. that’s not to saw she’s down with like fucking in public or in front of people, shes just not ashamed of her relationship and cares more about you than what other people think of you two. 

big spoon!! lay in her arms, let her cradle you and take care of you!! i think she also really enjoys you laying your head in her lap (i have another drabble about this here) but that way she can trace your face, or play with your hair if you like your hair played with, or even just kiss your nose.

you two normally lounge around in boba’s palace. there’s some sofas and lounge areas in the throne room that you two curl up on, but there’s a balcony on one of the upper levels that’s your favorite spot. you can lay next to her and enjoy her affections while the stars slowly drag themselves into the night sky. you’re away from prying eyes, and you can discuss your future with her and where you both might travel tom if you can sneak away for a few days. she’ll tell you all of the gossip of the crime world and all of the people boba and her have to sort through to establish the new king of the underbelly of the galaxy. its your and hers spot!! just a place to vibe and cuddle in peace. 

fennec doesn’t really sleep. she’s a mapper, rather than her like conking out for nine hours at a time. she doesn’t mind if you like sleep, you can sleep on her anytime !! lay your head on her shoulder, or on her chest — she‘ll keep you safe while you drift off to sleep. 

maul

maul is pretty grumpy, i have a cuddly drabble with him you can read here, but for the most part i think maul is the standard grumpy guy who doesn’t mind curling up with his s/o when they want to !! there are gonna be times where he’s not interested in touch or physical contact — maul has days that he needs space and time, whether he’s processing and meditating on past events, or if he’s just in need of maul-time. the best thing to do in those days is wait for him to sort of open the proverbial door to let you back in, or to wait until he crawls into your lap or into your bed to rest. 

he normally won’t refuse affections, but i the mornings he wakes up and all he can think about is your skin against his, or how sweet your eyes are, he’s not letting you do ANYTHINg. he wants your head on his CHEST he wants you in his ARM you are CUDDLING RIGHT NOW

i don’t really see maul being a little spoon (yes i do, i’m pretty tall so everyone is a little spoon if you’re under 5’11) BUT i think maul likes to hold you against his chest, and to wrap his arms around you. theres a protective element too. everything has been taken from maul, and he likes knowing your safe in his arms. if u DO catch his being a little spoon, he’s gonna be grumpy and very snickety with you. 

i don’t know how much you’’ be going out and about with maul, but pda just from a safety perspective is gonna be a soft know. if you’re in public with him, he’ll always be around you — maybe his hand will rest on your lower back or shoulder, or maybe a few of his fingers will curl around yours. just don’t expect to be making out in public, your relationship is taken very seriously by maul, and he’ll want to be careful and err on the side of caution.

maul likes it when you kiss him. he likes it when you pepper kisses all over his cheeks and along his jaw, he likes when you trace his marks and tattoos and place little kisses on his chest. something sweet and warm blooms in his chest when you reach over to pull his hand over so you can kiss his knuckles. its a gentle affection that no one has ever wanted to give maul. he sort of gives you the cold shoulder after the first few kisses, but he quickly is addicted with the unconditional love and attention and affection you give him. 

obi wan

okay here me out, so jedis are not allowed like attachments, so i don’t thing like Legally Officially you can cuddle with obi wan oh no sad BUT. that is not to say, if maybe, idk, there’s only one seat left on the star destroyer home, or only one BED while you too are on a very important jedi MISSION, well i mean. it’s not obi wan’s fault if you two end up cursing up, right? i mean, it is a little chilly on this planet, so it’s smart to stay together. for warmth. 

you’re gonna end up with your legs tangled, your arms around his neck, your hands tangled in his mullet — hes warmer than you expected, he radiates heat. maybe it’s how strong he is in the force, or if he’s just a warm body (or even if beneath the cool exterior, his blood runs hot) but you won’t need a ton of blankets if you have him. 

big spoon, a lot of like Vanilla Top energy from him. like i think if you do end up spooning or fucking, it’s gonna be simple. kenobi’s knowledge of sex and relationships is going to be very limited, and his experience is gonna be pretty limited as well. he knows the like most Basic position, the most Basic way to get you both off. if you continue with your relationship and trust each other more, and you can teach him a few tricks, he’ll warm up to the idea of you being a big spoon and maybe even topping.

obviously no pda, but when you’re around him, his sort of Presence makes itself more known to you, like you Feel him more than you would other people, even if he’s a few rooms away, you Know he’s near by you. it’s nothing sharp or crazy explicit in terms of like I FEEL HIS AURA AND SHIT like it’s just something gentleman reassuring and it’s all Him. little moments with him — meeting his eye across the room, your hands bumping into his, his hands lingering on you when he passes for just a moment longer than they should — it’s all you have with obi, and you cherish them so deeply. obi wan is gonna think about your affection long after you leave him — it’s an emotional thing for him. it’s the one point of contact and affection, and as much as you think about obi wan and your little moments, obi wan thinks about them more.

[klvbxlove]

omg (kanji & yu x gn! reader)

a/n: Y’ALL OH MY GOD. i’ve been wanting to write this for the longest time but never got the chance to ‘cause i was busy with other stuff. but now, i finally got to it! although i had to stop on a few occasions ‘cause writing some of the scenes had me blushing LMAO (PLEASE I JUST WANT YU AND KANJI TO BE REAL WTF). oh yeah, and just to clarify, i don’t own the song featured in this drabble! it’s actually pretty catchy (and spicy *WINK WONK*), y’all should listen to it. it’s a shame it’s not available on spotify or any other music streaming services, tho 😭

(GOD DAMN IT I WISH THERE WAS MORE YU X KANJI GIFS ON TUMBLR *CRIES*)

reader type: gender-neutral

reader specification(s): none

genre(s): lime, romance

trigger warning(s): slightly suggestive content

summary: on a hot summer day, while cleaning your living room, you decided to dance to one of your favorite songs-- and having sinful images of yu and kanji in your mind. 

song(s) featured: “omg” by itano tomomi

audio link 

lyrics (romaji & english translation)

lyrics (kanji & kana)

word count: 1.6k words

♡ ♡ ♡ (ꈍᴗꈍ)ε｀*) ♡ ♡ ♡

key:

(e/c) = eye color (n/n) = nickname (y/n) = your name

♡ ♡ ♡ (ꈍᴗꈍ)ε｀*) ♡ ♡ ♡

   君もカレも���力的、OMG!    誰か一人なんて 選べない    試してみる? tasty    急に奪って今すぐに kiss me

   The song hadn’t gone into a minute, yet you could already feel your hips swaying to the beat. You weren’t even sure if you were cleaning your living room right now. It was more of you being distracted by the catchiness of the song and just wanting to dance. Every once in a while, you would lip-sync to the lyrics. Pretending you were performing it on stage. 

   But this was the type of song you would only perform for your boyfriends, Yu and Kanji. A private show, if you could put it that way. 

   ふと目が行く    その手つきにもう夢中    肩のラインも SO GOOD    頭の中は君と make love make love

   Due to the summer heat coming from outside, you turned on a fan to cool down. You could feel the air flowing your body and brushing up against your clothes (you were wearing a light, oversized shirt and one of Yu’s boxers. What? They were comfy!). But despite that, you could still feel some sweat rolling down. 

   You weren’t so sure if you were hallucinating, but you swore you saw Yu and Kanji in the same room as you. Shirtless. It was almost as if they were there (or it might be just the heat). 

   With their backs towards you, you watched as they were also cleaning the living room and getting more work done than you were. They were also affected by the heat, as there was sweat dripping off of them. At one point, Yu sighed and ran one of his hands through his gray hair as if he was getting tired already. You couldn’t blame him. 

   You also couldn’t blame yourself for subconsciously licking your lips. You really couldn’t get enough of your boyfriends. But the fact you got two of them instead of just one? You almost wanted to consider yourself lucky to be with such amazing men. 

   止まらない 想像が 伝わったら いいのに

   Oh, yes. Your imagination has gone crazy over Yu and Kanji at random points. 

   This song spoke to you a lot!

   こっちもそっちも捨てがたいの OMG!    早く早く私捕まえて    胸の内は nasty    シャイだから言えないの feel me

   You didn’t find any point in continuing to clean the living room. There would always be another time for you to finish up. So instead, you let your body move to the beat of the song. You had memorized the choreography of the song out of pure boredom, and needless to say, it was your go-to dance. Especially when you couldn’t get Yu and Kanji out of your mind. 

   You almost didn’t want anyone to know about how nasty your mind was when it came to your boyfriends. Your imaginations belonged to them. 

   uh yea yea    ah uh yea yea    ah uh yea yea    ah... oh, OMG! ×2

   You waited for the perfect moment for the beat drop. 

   And then...

   OMG! ×2

   It came. 

   You loved this part of the song. You felt a sense of boldness flow through your body as you dropped to the floor and continued the dance. Your imagination must’ve gotten to you, but you were seeing steam emitting from the room. 

   And it just so happened that Yu and Kanji were sitting on the couch, watching you (They must’ve decided that cleaning would save for another day, as well). From a glance, you saw Yu smirking at you. Meanwhile, Kanji’s face was turning a light pink while he bit his bottom lip. 

  Feeling their eyes on you sent a tingling sensation in you. And it flew throughout your body when you laid on your back and lifted your legs in the air as you continued the dance (**). 

   At this moment, you felt free. So free. It almost felt like you were wearing nothing but your undergarments. The air conditioner was able to hit all the spots on your body, cooling you down. But still, it wasn’t enough to stop the heat that you were feeling. And it wasn’t because of the summer weather. 

   顔がタイプ uh uh    なんだか気も合う uh uh    知性的なのも    他の誰よりも like that, like that

   Eventually, you got back up on your feet, but your body was still moving. All you could think about was how badly you wanted Yu and Kanji. Nothing else was your concern at this moment. You had no idea how long you could handle the wait for them, considering how they were still hanging out with Yosuke and Teddie.  

   2人きりだと 時が速いの    秘密のお泊まりあるかも

   And considering how it was still afternoon, you could have your boyfriends all to yourself for the next few hours. The excitement was getting to you--

   “Well, well. What a nice surprise we came home to see. Right, Kanji?” 

   ‘OH SHIT.’

   You swore your head could’ve been snapped off your neck by how fast you whipped it. Turning your head around, you saw your boyfriends standing in front of you. Yu had an amused look on his face, and Kanji was flustered. Almost similar to how they looked when you imagined them watching you dance. 

   “U-Uh, yeah. I guess,” Kanji mumbled as he swallowed a lump in his throat. He was already feeling something in the down area of his body, and there was no way he could ever try to hide it. At least only you would be able to see it. And Yu, too. Thank the heavens that Yosuke and Teddie (or God forbid, the girls!) weren’t there to see it, though!

   Meanwhile, you stood there in your spot, not moving a single inch of your body. You certainly weren’t expecting your boyfriends to be home that quick. Let alone catching you dancing to quite a spicy song. Were you embarrassed about it, though? No, it was mostly you being in shock. 

   And it wasn’t as if you wanted them to catch you.

   Yu chuckled. “Those were some interesting moves you got there, (Y/N),” he said. You felt like your eyes were about to widen from how his voice sounded (there was some lust behind it). “Never knew you were quite a good dancer until just now. Another nice surprise to discover, too.” 

   “It’s nothing, really,” you smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of your neck. “I just got obsessed with this song and wanted to learn the dance.”

   “We’re still not gonna deny that you’re good at it, though,” Kanji pointed out. At this point, he was surprised he didn’t get a nosebleed after watching all of that. His eyes were practically glued onto you as he watched your body move to every beat of the song. 

   How you didn’t notice him and Yu walking into the house in the middle of your dancing session, Kanji didn’t know. Either way, he couldn’t let out the noise when he watched you get on the floor. 

   Unbeknownst to you, Kanji’s imagination also went crazy. 

   “Aww, thanks!” you smiled, then bit the inside of your cheek. A habit you did whenever you felt flustered. 

   “But don’t you think you’d be good at dancing upstairs in our bed?” Yu’s voice suddenly deepened. It almost sounded like he growled. 

   ‘Wait, what--’

   “E-Eh?” you tilted your head. 

   “Because I certainly think so,” the gray-haired male said before he slowly walked up to you and grabbed you by the waist, pulling you close. When you looked at him, he had a sensual look on his face. A look that always sends butterflies in your stomach.

   You almost didn’t have the time to make a noise of surprise when Yu suddenly locked his lips onto yours. Your (E/C) eyes widened. But it wasn’t long before you gave back into the kiss. No matter how many times you’ve done this, you could never get enough of how Yu was a great kisser. It always had you melting. 

   In just a matter of seconds, Kanji walked up behind you and began to place kisses on the back of your neck. At the sudden touch, you let out another small gasp. Yu found the opportunity to slip his tongue in your mouth. He also slipped one of his hands under your shirt and caressed it using his thumb. You let out a small moan at his touch, and Yu smirked into the kiss. 

   But it certainly didn’t help (or you know what? Maybe it did!) when Kanji subtly sneaked his hand under your boxers and began to play with the hem of your underwear. 

   Oh God, you felt like the steam was starting to come back inside the room. For all you knew, you were probably in heaven. But this was sinful.

   Yu eventually pulled away, and a string of saliva followed. With the smirk still plastered on his lips, he whispered, “I think it’s time we take (Y/N) upstairs to our bedroom and have them perform just for us. Isn’t that right, Kanji?” 

   Said boy looked at Yu and had the same smirk. “Hell yeah.”

   And before you could say anything, Kanji lifted you into his arms and carried you bridal-style. It prompted you to let out a squeal. 

   Yu chuckled. “That’s a cute noise you made there, (N/N). Although, you’re cute all the time. And don’t go denying it.” 

   ‘Oh, God damn it!’

   “Damn right, they’re always cute!” Kanji agreed.

   Yu nodded. “But enough talk about that. How about we head up to our room now? And don’t worry, (Y/N). We’ll take real good care of you, we promise.” 

   A clenching feeling was building up in your stomach, but there was also some excitement. So with a nod and a flustered face, you allowed Kanji to carry you upstairs with Yu following behind the both of you. You had the feeling you were going to be sweating a lot in the next few hours. Again, not just because of the hot temperature. 

   Not that you minded.

-

(**) if you watch the music video for the song and go to the 1:37 timestamp, you’ll see the move i’m referencing (i’m not a dancer so i’m not good at explaining dance moves LOL). here’s the link if you wanna watch it. but as an fyi, it’s quite short.  

[emptypringlescanister]

New Perspective: Chapter 2

Hello again! It’s me again, back with another chapter for y’all. Demand is definitely a lot higher than I thought it was going to be, and I’m so grateful for how much love this has been getting! I hope y’all continue to enjoy. See the end for additional notes as well as the tag list.

Tom Nook x Reader

Slow Burn

Warnings: Spoilers for Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Words: 2.6K

Links: Prologue  -  Chapter 1  -  Chapter 2 (You are here!)  -  Chapter 3

Any photos or gifs do not belong to me, so if you like them then go give love to the original creator!

Chapter 2

           Sleep lifted off you slowly and you groaned, turning over in your cot. You had slept like a rock for the first time in months and you would be damned if you had to get up now. “_____? Are you in there?” a familiar voice filtered in from outside. “Oh, I hope I haven’t woken you abruptly. Ah, but I do wish to discuss something with you. Yes, yes! I’ll be here when you’re ready.” You could hear footsteps walking away and you sighed, resigning yourself to the fact that getting up was inevitable. Opening your eyes was a chore, and you had to squint for a few seconds due to the blinding sunlight that made its way in through the cracks. You could hear birds chirping outside, a melodious chirping that reminded you of home. Standing and stretching, you could hear a few joints pop.

           Unzipping the door to the tent, you climbed out and were greeted with the smiling face of Tom. “Ah, there you are. I hope you had a pleasant nap. Or, well… I suppose it was a bit more than a nap, wasn’t it? It’s a brand-new day!” You choked mid-yawn. “I slept that long?!” Tom burst out laughing.

           “Oh ho ho! Yes, it’s quite normal to be worn out from such a long trip – and a major life event! Speaking of which, I have some things for you! Rummaging in his pockets for a few seconds, he brought out a cell phone. You had had one before you departed but left it behind. Purposely of course, for reasons best left unspoken. “Oh, Mr. Nook- “ “Tom.” He reminded you, smiling, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Tom. I can’t accept this. Besides, I didn’t think there was actual cell service out here...?” Nook chuckled, “Yes, yes, that’s what one would think! But these are special Nook phones! I had them made specifically for island residents. We have our own special cell network out here that only our island-goers can access. It’s very secure.” A part of your anxiety was eased with this reassurance and you took the phone from him.

           After a somewhat lengthy process of Nook going through and explaining the apps and their capabilities, you pocketed the phone. “Now you’ll notice that the contact list is rather empty,” Nook began. “So, would you do me the honor of letting me give you my number?” he asked, giving you a wink. Cue an immediate blush on your part. “Oh, sure! That’d be great actually.” You said, totally not fumbling with getting your phone back out of your pocket. You handed it over to him and watched as he typed on the phone. When he handed it back to you, you noticed that he had saved his number under the name of Tom N, but he had added a leaf emoji along with one that had a smiling face. You chuckled.

           “Unfortunately, we are to the part that everyone seems to dislike.” Hearing him say that, you look up from the phone to see him holding a piece of paper. “Your itemized bill.” He hands you the paper with a few various fees on it. A few listed are the air fare, accommodations, labor fees, and the price of the Nook Phone, all totaling at $49,800 bells. You paled, not at the price, well, yes, at the price. You had spent the last of your bells on the air ticket, leaving you with nothing extra. You had been in such a hurry to leave, the thought of bringing extra to live on didn’t even occur to you. “I um…” you began hesitantly, your mouth suddenly very dry. Nook cocked his head at you questioningly. “I don’t have any bells. I spent the last of them on the travel ticket.” You looked back down at the paper, not wanting Nook to see the fearful expression on your face.

           A paw landed on your shoulder. “My dear ____, there’s no need to fret! There are other ways you can pay besides bells!” Your head snapped up, locking eyes with his. “Tom! If you’re implying what I think you’re implying then-!” He cuts you off quickly, rushing to explain. “No no no! I don’t mean that in the slightest! I meant paying with the Nook Mileage Program!” You giggle, “I was just teasing Tom, no need to get all worked up.” He blushes, his furry face heating up and tail bushing up. “I’ll admit that didn’t exactly come out the way I meant.” You wink at him, silently preening at the fact that you could fluster him. “So, Nook Mileage?” you ask, changing the subject.

           “Ah, yes, with the program, you earn miles by simply living and doing things around the island. Think of it like scout awards, but miles! Ill just have to register you in the program.’ You hand over your phone and he fiddles with it, soon handing it back to you. “There! You’re all registered.” You thank him and pocket it. “Now then, I do have some things I have to take care of in the Resident Services tent, so you are free to explore and do anything to your heart’s content. This is your home now after all.” He gives a farewell wave and leaves in the direction of the main area.

           Now left to your own devices, you look around, seeing a lot of trees and natural growth. Weeds litter the area, so you take some time and pick them. In no time at all, you cleaned up your little spot, and most of the surrounding area. Everything is just so green and fresh; you can’t help but smile. You brush all the picked weeds together in a pile and stand, wiping your hands onto already grass-stained pants. A splashing sound alerts you to the stream and you walk over to it. Some small fish swim under the water, occasionally jumping out and back in. Following the stream seems like a good thing, so you follow it, and it leads to a sandy beach area. The airport is in the distance, but other than that the waves lapping against the sand are unobstructed. You follow the beach, picking up shells that you run across and just enjoying the sunshine. After walking for a little bit, cliffs come up in your field of vision with flowers atop them. If you had a ladder, you could probably appreciate them more up close, but oh well. The beach continues a bit, so you keep walking.

           “Oh!” You exclaim out loud. A small private beach had been revealed, sandwiched between the cliff and the sea, hidden behind a wall of rocks that you had to climb over to access. Rather small, but cozy and private, being at the very corner of the island. Perhaps this could be somewhere to come to relax by yourself.

           The sun was starting to set, so you stopped in your exploring and began to head back to the main area. You had had a full day, exploring and having a few conversations with your new neighbors had set you in a rather good mood. All the things you had done throughout the day had you feeling rather hungry, so you stopped at a fruit tree and shook some of the peaches off. You grabbed one for yourself, but upon remembering that you needed to stop by the Resident Services tent, you grabbed a few more for Tom and the kids.

           It didn’t take you long to reach the main area, and with peaches in hand, you entered the tent. All three of the tanukis were inside, and they looked up to see you. “_____!” Timmy cried, running up to hug you with Tommy close behind. They crashed into you and you staggered, trying to keep a hand on the peaches while still leaning down to catch the boys in a hug. “Hello, you two!” you laughed, steadying yourself and them. They released you from their surprisingly strong grips and started to bombard you with questions about your day and where all you went in your exploration. They were babbling so much though that you couldn’t get a word in edgewise. “Alright Timmy, Tommy, that’s enough. I think poor _____ would like to talk sometime as well.” Nook speaks up, and the boys’ voices quiet. You laugh and hand the boys their peaches. “My day was fine; I talked to the neighbors and had a lot of fun exploring the island.” They seemed to accept your short explanation and focused on eating their treats. You walked over to Nook and handed him his as well. “Oh! Thank you ____!” Nook smiled at you, placing it on the table beside him. “I shall have it as a snack later. Now that it is dark out, will you allow me to walk you back to your tent tonight as well?” Timmy looked up when he heard this and nudged his brother, the both of them watching you and Nook curiously.

           ‘I’d like that.” You smiled at him, and took his outstretched paw, him leading you out of the tent. A few seconds after the door zipped shut, Tommy turned to his brother. ‘Do you think they like each other?” Timmy shrugged, taking a thoughtful bit of his peach. ‘I mean, _____ brought us peaches, so if Uncle Nook got one too… I guess so.” Tommy rolled his eyes.

“No Timmy, I mean like-like him.”

“Oooohh… Well, probably. They were holding hands after all.”

 _______________________________________________________________

             The night air refreshed you from the cramped interior of the tent and you let out a happy sigh. The moonlight here was strong, so everything was illuminated rather well. “So, you had a good day exploring, hm?” Nook asks, glancing at you. “Oh yeah, there was tons to explore and I found a really cool spot by the beach.” Nook looks at you in wonder. “Is that so? I had explored the island when I had first arrived here to deem it suitable to live on, but I hadn’t explored the beach in its entirety. I would love to see it if you don’t mind showing me.” He looks at you with pleading eyes, and you’re too weak to say no.

           “Alright! Just quit looking at me like that!” You groan. He chuckles, “Too mesmerized by me to say no, hm?” He squeezes your hand slightly, making you blush but laugh as well. Walking in silence for a while, you finally come to the rock wall that the beach was hidden behind. Nook whistles lowly, “No wonder I didn’t see this before, it’s rather far away from everything else, and hidden on top of that!” Humming in agreement, you clamber on top of the rocks. Perching on top of the wall, you lean down to see Nook looking up at you. “It’s a bit of a climb, think you can handle it old man?” you tease, swinging your legs back and forth. “Old man?! He squawks in indignation, “I’ll show you who’s old!” He climbs up the wall and sets himself beside you, a look of smug victory on his face before hopping down to the other side. “I beat you,” he says smugly, paws on his hips. Punching yourself for forgetting his feat of strength in carrying you yesterday, you roll you eyes at him. “I never said it was a race,” You stick your tongue out at him. “Well if it was, I would have won,” He replies. Holding his arms out, he adds, “Come on now, jump down and I’ll catch you.” “I can get down on my own thanks,” You say, and he starts to lower his arms but before he can, you continue. “But I will accept your gracious offer.” He looks up at you to see your teasing face and he chuckles. Shimmying yourself a bit, you let yourself off the wall and fall into his waiting arms.

           After setting you down, he turns to observe the small area. “Isn’t it beautiful?” you ask, settling yourself down onto the sand just out of reach of the lapping waves. The moonlight beams softly down, illuminating the sand and bouncing off the moving waves, causing sparkling reflections to be thrown around. Your attention captured by the water, you don’t see Nooks gaze looking at you when he utters, “Yes, beautiful…”

           He settles down beside you, leaning back to see the full moon sitting high in the sky. “I think we might be the only two to know about this spot,” you say, lifting some sand into your hand and letting it filter through your fingers. “There were no footprints here earlier in the day, and only mine when we got here.” Nook hums in response.

           “I truly admire all you’ve done on the island so far.” Nook begins after a while, breaking the quiet of the night. “Your interaction with the residents definitely deems you worthy of the title of Resident Representative. But because of that title, I wish to apologize. It has come to my attention that I may have pressured you into the position, and I wish to apologize if I made you uncomfortable in any way.” “Tom,” You interrupt, placing your hand on his paw to stop him. “You didn’t make me uncomfortable. Far from it actually…” If Nook notices your blush at that, he chooses not to comment. “And I’m happy with the position. I’m glad you gave it to me.” Nook smiles at that, and you smile back at him. You gaze into each other’s eyes, transfixed. His eyes flick down momentarily to your lips then back up. He leans forward slightly, and time seems to slow. His paw reaches up and cradles your face, and you lean into his touch. “May I… kiss you?” he whispers. Not trusting yourself to speak without saying something stupid, you nod, and Nook closes the distance between you, pressing your lips together. The kiss is chaste and gentle, his paw still cradling your face with the sounds of the ocean surrounding you. He pulls back and you follow subconsciously. You look at each other, unsure of what to say after that event. “So, do I get miles for kissing you?” you ask, and you both burst into laughter.

 _______________________________________________________________

             “So, now you know about that spot on the island,” You say in front of the entrance to your tent. Nook nods, “Indeed! It was an interesting find, and I thank you for showing me. Though I promise not to let the secret out.” He winks and you giggle. “I think it might be time for me to retire for the night though,” You yawn. “I suppose I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Yes, yes. In fact, thanks to your wildlife contributions today, and old friend of mine will be coming to the island tomorrow in hopes to set up a museum here.” Nook mentions.

You smile at him, shaking your head fondly. “Tom, I have to go to sleep now.” He sighs, rubbing the back of his head in embarrassment. “Yes, yes. I understand. Sleep is important. Very much so. Did I mention that my old friend is an owl?”

You lean forward to kiss him, and swiftly enter your tent, zipping it behind you, leaving Nook in a shocked silence. “Goodnight!” You call out, laughter in your voice. A small squeak is all that reaches your ears before you hear him turn and walk away unsteadily.

           Settling into your cot is a great comfort and you snuggle down into your blanket. Rest reaches you for a few seconds before the full weight of the evening’s events decide to replay in your mind. A blush resides heavily on your face and your mind begins to race. “Wait, we kissed. Twice…”

________________________________________________________________

And so ends chapter 2! Sorry that the Nooklings didn’t get much time in this chapter, but don’t worry, they’ll appear a lot more in the upcoming chapters!

Thanks everyone so much for reading! If you’d like, go check out my other works on my page. My uploading schedule is a little inconsistent, but thanks to summer break coming up, I’m hoping to post maybe every other day.

Requests are open!! Send me a message or send me an Ask.

Ask if you want to be added to the tag list! And for those of you on the tag list, if the tags don’t work, let me know! I still don’t fully understand how tagging works lol

Tag list for New Perspective

@accio-zara

@themagpiewitchescorner

[whitewolfandthefox]

Hey! Would you mind doing Jaskier x reader kinda based off scenario 4? Like, the reader and Jaskier are in an adventure when they're suddenly ambushed, so the reader, no weapon on hand, throws herself between Jaskier and the killing blow? And then sheepishly admits shes loved him enough to die for him for a while now (Up to you if you want fluffy or angsty haha)

Scenario 4: Confessional kiss before battle (didn’t quite follow this!)

Summary: You had been travelling with Jaskier and Geralt for some time now. At some point, you weren’t sure when, you had fallen hopelessly in love with the bard, but he didn’t return your feelings. You had to make a decision, you just weren’t sure what it was yet. 

Words: 4.4k

Warnings: major character injury, angst, whole lotta angst, but I swear it turns fluffy!

A/N. So apparently the people have spoken and y’all have chosen fluff (not that I expected anything different after that last chapter). But knowing me, I couldn’t get away with no angst, so we’ve got a little bit that turns into fluff. Enjoy!

Masterlist

Add yourself to my taglist

It’s Only Ever Been You (Jaskier x Reader)

It was supposed to be the day you were finally free of him. You had talked to Geralt, he had known about your feelings for a while after you had gotten drunk one night and poured your heart out to him. Ever since, he had been trying to leave you and Jaskier alone as much as possible, but the oblivious idiot that he was, the bard hadn’t picked up on what you were trying to do. It broke your heart every time he went to bed with another woman, you would mope around until Geralt finally took it upon himself to distract you.

You began learning swordwork, impromptu lessons that had started as an attempt to distract you on Geralt’s part had quickly turned into daily sessions, working on your strength and your technique. Although you weren’t nearly as good as Geralt, you had gotten to the point where you could hold your own and Geralt started trusting you to help him on easier hunts. Geralt had even bought you your own sword so you would have one that was made to your specifications. You were thrilled at this, of course, but crestfallen that Jaskier seemed to lose even more interest in talking to you once you started. You tried telling him about how the lessons went at the end of the day, but he would just brush you off and go find someone else to talk to after his set.

Geralt would try to comfort you but it was no use. Jaskier wouldn’t even talk to you at this point, he would just send you glares from across the room. You were distraught, you had no idea what you had done to deserve this treatment. That night saw you and Geralt sat at a table in the back of the inn while Jaskier performed for the crowd. You were crushed, the bard hadn’t said a word to you all day. Geralt had supplied you with a steady stream of ale that evening, getting you progressively more drunk as the evening progressed.

“I think I need to leave, Geralt.” The man you were addressing looked at you with sad eyes. “I can’t stay here, it hurts too much.” You wouldn’t look up at him, tears dripping down your face as you stared into your mug. It was true, you couldn’t stay. Being ignored by the man you loved and watching him fall into a different bed every night was too much. You didn’t know how much longer you could survive this.

A hand rested on top of yours, causing you to glance up. “Are you sure? I can always knock some sense into the idiot,” Geralt rumbled, sending a sharp glance Jaskier’s way. The bard was oblivious, playing to the inn, enjoying himself the whole while, completely ignorant to the raging torrent of emotion that was you.

Geralt’s remark drew a short laugh from you, which quickly turned into a sob. Your chest squeezed as the bard grinned brightly at his captive audience. You shook your head. “I fear there is nothing to be done. I will travel with you to the next town, finish the contract we took, but after that I will depart. Maybe I can sell my services as a guard.” You squeezed Geralt’s hand. “Thank you, my darling Witcher, for everything you have done for me.”

Geralt grunted, again making you laugh tearfully. You knew he wouldn’t reply, he was still uncomfortable with showing what he was feeling, although he had become more open with you. Standing, you sent one more gland in Jaskier’s direction before gathering your gear off of the bench from where you had set it. “I am going to bed, Geralt, I hope you have a peaceful rest of your night.”

You smiled softly as his brusque nod, accompanied by a quiet “good night,” turning towards the stairs and making your way to your room. You missed Jaskier’s eyes following you across the room as you disappeared down the hallway. Reaching your room, you quickly stripped, washing yourself before you retired to your bed, falling asleep with tears drying on your cheeks.

Your dreams were disturbed that night, tossing and turning, seeing Jaskier and Geralt struck down as you slept. You remember crying out at one point before feeling a soft hand brushing your cheek as lips pressed against your forehead, the presence soothing you. You quieted after that, content in the feeling of security that wrapped around you, brought by the presence in the room. 

You woke early the next morning to see Jaskier still asleep in the other bed and Geralt missing from the room. You dressed quietly before venturing downstairs, seeking out the other man in your party. You found him at a table, a plate of food in front of him. As you sat next to him, the innkeep appeared with another plate, which he set down in front of you. Startled, you thanked him before turning to Geralt who’s lips had quirked upwards. You scoffed and nudged him gently. “I can pay for my own food, thank you very much.”

Geralt didn’t acknowledge you, continuing to eat in silence. You shook your head at him, before focusing on your own food. Geralt had started on his second plate by the time you finished your first, just in time to see Jaskier stumble down the stairs. Mask falling into place, you stood as you gathered your plate. “If you will excuse me, I’m going to go pack my gear.”

You headed for the bar with your dishes, avoiding the bard’s path as he approached Geralt’s table before making your way back to your room. You could hear Jaskier’s voice behind you, “What’s her problem this morning?”

You stopped, hand against your chest as his question pierced your chest, heart clenching at the dismissive tone Jaskier had used. A tear leaked out of your eye as you forced yourself to your room, falling to your knees as you suppressed a sob. You crumpled in on yourself, a flood of emotion finally releasing after you had held it back for such a long time. You quieted after a while, wiping your tears as you heard footsteps coming down the hall.

You kept your back to the door, sorting the things in your room into two piles: a pile for you and a second pile for Geralt and Jaskier. The door opened behind you, the footsteps coming into the room before stopping. It was Jaskier, you wouldn’t have heard Geralt, he made sure to tread lightly, a fact you still couldn’t reconcile with the hulk of a man.

“What are you doing?” The question was shrill, as if Jaskier couldn’t believe what he was seeing.

Keeping your back to him, you responded. “I’m sorting our things, you and Geralt will go into one bag and my stuff into another.”

Jaskier approached you. “But why? We’ve never sorted our clothes before, everything’s just always gone in together. If you separate them we will have to bring two bags up, Y/N, not just one. You really should just put everything into the same bag.”

His footsteps came closer, hand appearing in your vision as he reached for one of your shirts to put in with his and Geralt’s things. You snatched the shirt back, stuffing it into your own bag. “I’m leaving Jask, that’s why I’m sorting my clothes! After Geralt and I finish this contract, I’m going off on my own!” You turned to look at the bard, frozen with a look of disbelief on his face.

“You’re - you’re leaving? Just like that?” Jaskier seemed stunned.

“Yes, I’m leaving. I talked to Geralt, and I’m leaving to find my own job. This just isn’t going to work.”

At your words, his face shuttered. “Okay.”

You stood, facing him. “Okay? Just okay? That’s all you have to say?”

“What do you want me to say, Y/N? You’ve obviously made up your mind. Besides, it’ll be one less person to feed. Good luck finding a new job.” With that, Jaskier turned and walked to the door, shutting it hard behind him.

As the door shut, your heart shattered, knees collapsing beneath you as you fell, sobs ripping their way out of you, tears cascading down your face. You curled into a ball on the floor as you gasped for breath, desperate for anything to stop the pain that you were feeling in that moment. That’s where Geralt found you, lying on the floor, curled up with a blanket that Jaskier often slept with when you camped outside. He came to sit by your head, stroking your hair as you sobbed, pulling you into his lap as he leaned you against his chest. 

“Shh,” he murmured, “Just let it out.” He rocked you gently, shushing you as you cried yourself out again. Silently, you pushed against him in a silent ask to be released, going back to sorting your things when he did. Geralt helped you, the two of you content in the silence. Once finished, you gave him a soft, sad smile in thanks. Geralt nodded, understanding your wordless gratitude before leading you to saddle the horses.

Your bay mare knickered when she saw you, bringing a gentle smile to your face. You saddled the horses and secured your belongings in silence, sneaking an extra apple to Roach when Geralt wasn’t looking. You mounted as Jaskier appeared, leading your horse out of the stables as Geralt and Jaskier held a quiet conversation. You refused to look at the smaller man, staying on your horse when you normally would walk alongside her in order to attempt to converse with the bard. 

The three of you travelled in an uncomfortable silence, not even Jaskier daring to break the quiet with a song or a poem. It was agonizing. You longed to hear the bard’s sweet voice raised in song, breaking the heavy silence that had settled over you. Even the horses were somber, picking up on their masters’ moods.

You left Jaskier with the horses as you and Geralt went to deal with the monster. You pretended it didn’t hurt when Jaskier wished Geralt luck, but didn’t say anything to you. You ignored the look you received from the Witcher at that, leading the way into the forest as you buried your feelings deep within you.

The hunt was a disaster. The two of you had missed the creature’s partner as you had approached its lair, resulting in you being grabbed and flug against the side of the brick house. You had watched, stunned, as the second creature had leapt onto Geralt’s back, opening a gash in his armour before you had forced yourself up, slashing to force the creature off. The pair of you killed the monsters but didn’t come out unscathed. Geralt’s shoulder was bruised but healing quickly and you had received a laceration down your dominant arm, forcing you to use your weaker sword hand to finish the fight. 

Back at the horses Geralt had quickly bound your arm, settling it in a sling until the skin set. Jaskier had stayed slumped against a tree, studiously ignoring the both of you as he glared at the ground. Making your way back to the main path, your group of three turned towards the next town to collect your payment, the head of one of the creatures in a sack attached to your horse. Jaskier hadn’t looked you in the eyes yet. 

As you rode, you could feel your arm itching, but you brushed it off. The sooner you could collect the coin for the monster, the sooner you could leave all of this behind. You rode behind Geralt, pausing when you saw him stiffen in his saddle. 

“Geralt?” you called, loosening your sword in its sheath as you saw the man in front of you do the same. Jaskier doddled up behind the two of you, oblivious to the tension in the air. Geralt nudged Roach to back up until he was side by side with you. In a low voice, he told you, “I can hear and smell men in the bushes just ahead of us. If my guess is right, they are waiting to claim the monster head so they can collect the coin.”

You shifted, tightening your armour and checking the bandage on your arm once more. “What do you want to do? Make a run for it? I don’t know that the horses will be fast enough if I have to carry Jask.”

“You’re not carrying me, I can walk.” Jaskier protested from behind the two of you.

“Shut up, Jaskier,” Geralt interrupted without looking back. You tuned out Jaskier’s words as he spluttered behind you, focusing instead on trying to catch a glimpse of the men waiting for you. As he spoke, the trees rustled and a band of men stepped forward, clothed in shabby armour with old weapons. “Not a very intimidating group, are they?” Geralt rumbled.

Your lips quirked at that, but you were more focused on studying the group, trying to decide the best plan of attack. Your thoughts were interrupted as one of the men stepped forward, brandishing his sword at you. You hid a smile as he almost dropped his weapon, grip slipping as he tried to intimidate your small group. Jaskier squeaked and stepped behind your horses while you nudged yours forward a step in response. “Witcher,” the man called. “Just give us yer prize and we’ll let yer group on their way, no trouble.”

Geralt didn’t respond, face remaining blank,, the men shifting on their feet at the drawn out silence. As the man who had spoken originally opened his mouth to say something else, Geralt finally spoke.

“And if I don’t want to?”

“Don’t want ta what?” The man appeared confused. You could hear Jaskier sigh behind it as he muttered under his breath. Geralt nudged Roach forward a few steps, your own horse following instinctively, Jaskier scrambling to keep up.

“What if I don’t want to give you my prize?” As he said this, Geralt’s hand drifted up to the hilt of his sword as you placed your own hand on the hilt at your hip. The men behind him shifted, muttering amongst themselves as the Witcher slowly drew his sword.

The man in front blanched, clearly having not considered the possibility that the Witcher wouldn’t just hand over his prize. They must have assumed that their larger numbers would have kept the man from fighting back. You watched as the surprise, disbelief, and many other emotions that flew across the man’s face slowly turned to anger and determination.

“Well, if ya won’t jus’ giv’ it to us, I guesses we has ta just take it then!” With that, he thrust his sword into the air with a cry before charging at your group with his sword held in two hands above his head, the rest of the men following behind. You swung down from your horse, turning her and sending her away with a sharp hand gesture, Roach following quickly behind her. You drew your sword, turning to face the approaching men as Geralt shoved Jaskier behind him, shouting at the bard to get to safety.

You swung your sword to meet the first blow, the man’s face turning to shock as the woman he thought would be an easy target met him with strength behind her sword. You quickly shoved him back, pulling your sword across your body to thrust towards his chest, catching him in the middle before leaning and kicking him away, turning to catch the next weapon swinging down at you. A shock went through your arm, travelling all the way up to your shoulder. The itching feeling had started burning, a low, dull throb that grated at your concentration. You switched your sword to your non-dominant hand as you engaged the man who had just attacked you.

A feral grin appeared on your face as the man yelled and rushed you, hoping to overcome you with brute strength. You sidestepped his headlong rush, slashing across his back as he passed you, the man falling to the ground with a cry. You quickly engaged and incapacitated a third man, pausing to survey the scene. Geralt was holding his own, toying with the two men attacking him surrounded by the bodies of the other two men he had taken down.

You spun as you heard Jaskier scream, the smile dropping from your face as you took in the sight of the bard backing towards you as another man stalked towards him, sword held loose in his grip. You didn’t even think, your body moving before your mind finished processing what was happening. You shoved Jaskier out of the way, desperately bringing your sword up to knock the blow away.

You made contact with the man’s weapon, but not fast enough, the point plunging into your shoulder, a cry forced from your lips at the wave of pain. You stepped back, head thrown back in a silent cry as the blade slid out of your skin before your own blade came back up, catching the man unawares as you opened a long laceration on his upper arm. He frantically backpedaled, wildly swinging at you as he went. You knocked his sword away, distantly hearing Jaskier cry your name as you advanced on the bandit. As he thrust at you, you knocked his sword down, stepping on the blade as it went past you, forcing the man to bend as you brought your sword up before bringing the hilt down as hard as you could on his head. The man instantly collapsed the ground, leaving you to stagger away.

You dropped your sword as your hand went numb, the burning travelling up your shoulder into your chest. You grasped at your chest, gasping for breath as you felt your legs give out beneath you. As you fell, you felt your body caught, arms pulling you into a lap, Jaskier’s face appearing above you. As the world started to spin, you smiled up at him, trying to reach up to touch his face before frowning at the tears on his face. He was talking, you could hear his mouth moving but no words coming out. You blinked as he shook you, sound suddenly reaching you.

“-idiotic, stupid thing to do, why would you get in the way? Why would you do that, you reckless girl. I won’t be able to live with myself if you die, you can’t die, I can’t lose you.” He looked so sad, you wanted to say something to cheer him up, to make him know that this was okay. 

Again, you tried to brush the tears from his face, your hand falling back to your body as you tried to lift it. Jaskier grasped your wrist, lifting your fingers to his mouth as he pressed a kiss against them. You smiled softly, head lolling to rest against his chest, Geralt appearing on your other side.

“What happened?” he demanded, falling to his knees next to you. 

“I don’t know,” Jaskier cried. “She pushed me out of the way and got stabbed in the shoulder but kept going. She wasn’t doing anything when she collapsed, and she hasn’t said anything! Geralt, I don’t know what to do!”

The Witcher acknowledged this with a terse nod, reaching for the wrist Jaskier wasn’t holding to check your pulse. You cried out as he pulled your arm towards him, the burning increasing at the action. Geralt and Jaskier shared a glance over your head before he was reaching for his dagger to slice your bandages and shirt away. You heard an intake of breath as the fabric fell away, struggling to turn your head to look. You caught a glimpse of it before Jaskier caught your head and pressed it back against his chest as a sob tore its way out of your lips. 

Your arm was red, the wound swollen with black lines running up to your shoulder and under your shirt. Jaskier held you as your body shook, Geralt inspecting your arm. He looked at the bard, somber expression on his face. “The monster must have been venomous, we need to get her to a healer.”

You sighed as you closed your eyes, mumbling against Jaskier’s shirt. “I’m sorry.”

He looked down at you, brow furrowed with worry. “For what, you have nothing to be sorry for. You just need to stay awake, can you do that for me Y/N?”

You nodded tiredly as he tapped your face, opening your eyes at his silent request. “I got blood on your shirt.”

Jaskier barked out a hysterical laugh, “That’s the least of my worries right now.” His face fell as your head lolled over to look at Geralt. The larger man looked up from where he was rebandaging your arm after applying a healing salve, nodding at your unspoken request. “You need to stay awake, please.” Jaskier’s voice was pleading with you as you almost lost yourself to the haze.

Turning your head back, you lifted your eyes to his face, taking in the features that you loved, trying to memorize them once more before you gave in to the darkness. A small smile graced your face, eyes drifting shut as you breathed out the three words you had longed to tell him. 

“I love you.”

The last thing you saw before the world went black was Jaskier’s frantic face, his lips moving in a desperate plea for you to stay awake as your eyes closed and your head fell to the side as you fell into the darkness.

**~*~*~*~**

You groaned as you came to awareness, whole body sore when you tried to move. You rolled your head to the side, opening your eyes before immediately closing them against the bright light. You heard movement next to you.

“Y/N? Oh thank god, Y/N! You’re awake!” It was Jaskier’s voice, the bed dipping as he sat down next to you, taking your uninjured hand. “C’mon darling, open your eyes for me.”

You cracked your eyes, seeing the bard next to you, face drawn and dark circles under his eyes. You tried to speak, coughing at the dryness in your throat, Jaskier frantically reaching for the cup next to your bed. He helped you sit up, propping some pillows behind you as he helped you take a sip. Once your thirst was quenched, you tried again. “What happened?”

Jaskier’s face grew grave. “You don’t remember?” As you shook your head, he drew a hand down his face. “You were injured, the monster you fought was toxic, and when the bandits tried to ambush us, your accelerated heart rate forced the venom through your system faster and you collapsed.”

You winced as the memories came back, jogged by Jaskier’s words. You remembered the burning pain, as well as what you said to the bard before you passed out. The man in question was watching your face closely, looking for something in particular. He seemed to find it, grinning as he sat back on the bed.

“You do remember, then.” You flushed at his words, fingers pulling at the blanket, refusing to meet his eyes. You felt a gentle hand under your chin, guiding your face to look at his. A soft expression was on his face, a smile tugging at his lips. “I do as well, if that’s any consolation.”

You gaped at him. “You do as in you remember or you do as in you-” you cut yourself off, to afraid to finish your sentence as you once again glanced away. His fingers once again found your chin, gently tugging you back to face him as he leaned in. You breath hitched at the proximity between you two, your eyes frantically searching his face as he searched yours.

Seeming to find what he was looking for, he closed the distance, gently pressing his lips against yours. You startled, eyes widening before they shut as you kissed him back, reaching with your uninjured arm to hold his bicep. The kiss was sweet and gentle, just long enough to leave you breathless, tired as you still were. Jaskier smirked at you, clearly pleased with your reaction. You swatted at him.

“But, I don’t understand, all of those women? They meant, nothing?” you hesitated, flicking short glances at his face. His expression went tight before he sighed, face falling. 

“It was only ever you. I was trying to distract myself,” he glanced up at you, eyes sad. “I saw you spending all of your time with Geralt, and I thought that maybe, you two had…” he trailed off as he saw the smile appearing on your face. “What? This isn’t funny!”

You giggled at his offended expression before rushing to explain as he pretended to withdraw his hand. “Geralt started teaching me as a way to cheer me up, he knew that I… loved… you, and wanted to distract me when you would leave. Eventually it turned into real lessons once I discovered I was fairly good at it.”

You waited as a small smile grew on his face before he started chuckling, you following along as it turned into a full blown laugh, Jaskier hunching over on the bed as his laughter shook his body. He finally recovered, wiping his tears away as you watched him with a soft smile. “All this time and we couldn’t see it. I was trying to flirt with you since we met, but you always seemed to show no interest.”

You gaped at him as he grinned, “I thought you just did that with everyone! I didn’t know it wasn’t in jest!”

Chuckling again, he stood and nudged you, helping you shuffle over to the other side of the bed you were laying in, climbing in after you. You snuggled under his arm as he pulled you in close, tucking your head under his chin, careful not to jostle your injured arm and shoulder. He pressed a kiss against your head, nosing your hair as he murmured. “I love you too.”

You stilled at that, looking up at him with shining eyes. He leaned down, gently pressing a kiss against your lips before pulling you back to him. “Sleep, my love. We have all the time in the world.”

You nestled in further, content in his warm embrace and the knowledge that he loved you. Your eyes slowly closed as Jaskier started humming a sweet tune above you, lulling you into a comfortable sleep, safe in his arms.

**~*~*~*~**

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[nalufever]

Second chapter to my Flash fic, my Snowells week 2020 entry ‘Happy Together.’ More road trip shenanigans!

The casual food dive the unlikely pair found themselves in was quaint and that meant the decor was at best a decade fresher than the no-tell motel. At least it smelled delicious. A doe-eyed twenty-something woman greeted and seated them, gave a short spiel about the specials and informed Frost and Eobard she’d be back very soon to take their orders.

What had to be a selection of locals were having a noisy meeting; loud talk about the mayoral race and even louder mentions of how good Vanessa looked in her pink waitress uniform. Both Frost and Eobard were of a mind to ignore these distractions until the dudebro in charge of the meeting started running his mouth in earnest.

“So, have y’all decided?”

Both Frost and Eobard nodded, but before either could speak, one of the rowdy regulars interrupted. “Nessa, can you freshen my coffee?”

Frost gave the waitress a small smile. “You should deal with Mr. Can’t Wait, first.”

“Ooh, that’s actually close to what we called him in middle school.” She giggled and pitched her voice louder, “We called Eddy The Little Emperor.” Vanessa dropped her order pad back into the small pocket of her apron and faced the little runt. “Oh, no, it’s not quite the same. Could you let me do my job for this nice couple? I’ll be right over with more coffee for the table once I take their order.” She only smiled as Eddy glowered. Giving her customers her attention again, Vanessa retrieved her order pad and flipped it open, her pen inches away from the surface. “Now, what caught your eye?”

“I’d like -”

“Your ass!” Eddy snickered without any remorse - surely he was the product of shoddy upbringing. “We’re regulars over here so don’t waste your time on uncertain tips.” He tapped his empty coffee cup and then started banging it on the table, several of his dudebro brethren copying. “March that fine ass back and serve us coffee.”

Frost lost every trace of ‘easy-going patron’ in her body she’d ever had in her life and by the look of disgust on Eobard’s face, so had he. Of one mind and will, they excused themselves from the table, stood and sauntered over to Eddy.

Eobard gave a regal hand wave to Frost, indicating the first shot was hers. She did not disappoint. “Eddy, Eddy, Eddy. Didn’t you ever learn to respect people? Ain’t nobody got time for your bullshit.”

“I must agree.” Eobard leaned over on the table and picked up Eddy’s coffee cup, giving the miscreant a wink that might have passed for roguish if it hadn’t been so evil. “If you’re in such a hurry, why not get it yourself?”

“I don’t know who you folks think you are, but you’d do well to learn to keep your noses out of other’s business!”

“Eddy, you got between us and our meal.” Frost gave Eddy her best dead-eyed stare. “You should learn how to play nice.”

“My dear, some guys never learn to be nice.” Eobard chuckled as the absurdity of what he was saying hit him. “But, some of us assholes do learn to at least fake it.” He sucked air over his teeth. His tone was low and threatening as he said, “Seems Eddy missed class that day.”

“Well, then. He needs to learn that lesson, yes?” Frost met Eobard’s eyes - trying to suss out what her erstwhile partner might be willing to commit to without drawing too much attention. Even if Eobard was not currently speedy, he still had what amounted to decades of evil-doing experience. “We’re over-qualified, but needs must, eh?”

“Hey, what’s with you two acting so tough? Some emo goth woman and an old man? Pfft! I ain’t scared.” Eddy stood abruptly, scraping his chair on the floor, making it skid noisily backwards. “I’m too important -”

Frost gave Eddy a sharp rabbit punch in the throat, smiling angelically as Eddy folded like a cheap suit.

He crumpled and sobbed - once he was able to inhale - like the little bitch he was.

“Any more takers?” Frost planted her hands on her hips and let her derision show on her face.

Eobard glared at the rest of Eddy’s posse. “Go while the gettin’ is good, or else my dear companion will hand out more lessons.”

In short and satisfying order the gaggle of men dragged Eddy out after tossing several bills onto the table to cover their bill.

Frost sat back down at their table and picked up her menu and smiled at the waiting Vanessa who had the widest grin on her face. “I’ll have the rib dinner with coleslaw and fries - no, make that a poutine.”

Eobard gave Frost one of his classic evil smirks. “Nice to know I’ve converted you into a poutine connoisseur.”

“As if! I’m just hungry.”

“Ain’t you two the cutest couple I’ve had in ages!” Vanessa ignored the distressed look Frost and Eobard exchanged. She asked Eobard, “And for you?”

“I’ll have the spaghetti and meatballs special.”

“Cheese on your garlic bread?”

“Um, sure.”

“I’ll put in your orders and bring you drinks in a flash!” Vanessa speed-walked away, ignoring their protests they hadn’t selected anything to drink yet.

“Well, that went over better than a lead balloon.”

Eobard played with the salt and pepper shakers, clinking them as if he was heralding something momentous. “Lead balloons can float. Ever watch Myth Busters? You just gotta know what you’re doing.”

His companion sighed, putting an elbow on the table and settling her chin into her cupped hand. “You watch TV?”

“I’m human, aren't’ I?” Eobard answered. “TV or youtube, content is content. And, there’s too many streaming services to mention even half of them.”

“Debatable actually,” Frost scoffed, “Both things! You, human? And if content isn’t sometimes twisted by delivery. Don’t get me started on having to pay extra for one channel for one damn show and then they have the damn nerve to not have all the episodes available to view!”

“Tch. Angry much? And this is how you treat the wonderful person who introduced you to the amazing wonders of poutine?”

Vanessa bustled back to the table and plonked a very big bottle of red wine down. “Eddy has needed an ass kicking for too long. Thank you! No charge, so please enjoy!” She put two glasses next to the bottle. “I’ll be back with your food soon.”

Eobard raised one eyebrow. “How nice.”

“Better than you deserve.” Frost shook her head. “Sorry, bad habit. You were pretty decent.”

“Ah, that’s the damning faint praise I prefer.” He pointed to the bottle and smiled. “Open that and pour. I’m not going to let you hog our reward.”

“Wasn’t even thinking of not sharing.” Frost opened the wine and deliberately gave Eobard a generous pour and then filled her own. “Cheers to our little partnership.” She inclined her head as Eobard raised his glass to clink with her own. “Long may we wreak havoc.”

“Long may we wreak havoc.” Eobard copied Frost’s words a scant heart-beat later and then added his own sentiment. “Cheers to one astounding bad ass bitch.”

“True.” Frost brushed imagined fluff off her leather jacket. “I’m more lethal than the plague.”

“Funny fact, thirty years into the future there’s another plague.”

“That is funny.” Frost took a fortifying sip of her wine after Eobard’s weird proclamation. “And all this talk of disease makes me sooooo thirsty.”

><><><><

Frost supported a stumbling and giggling Eobard into their motel room. She guided him to the bathroom - just in time - and he barely remembered to shut the door before unzipping and relieving his bladder.

She shrugged and sat on the edge of the bed, kicking off her boots. Tonight had been weird. Actually, all of today had been weird; from driving the Reverse Flash out of Central City to sharing food and then giving that loser Eddy the beat-down he so richly deserved. It kinda felt like a partnership.

Eobard waltzed out of the bathroom, his pants mercifully up but the fly was at half mast.

“Hey, hey, hey!” Frost resolutely looked away. “Zip up!” Why was she cursed with manners?

“What’s got your evil panties in a bunch?” Eobard struggled with his zipper, fumbling for long seconds before the tell-tale sound of metallic zipper teeth fusing together meant the free show was locked away. “Never guessed you to be a prude!”

“As if!” Frost forgot she’d removed her boots - she tried stomping over to her unlikely road trip companion but didn’t make as much of an intimidating impression as she’d hoped. “I happen to have respect for boundaries.”

“Hahahahah!” Eobard bent double, clutching his stomach. “Boundaries? This from the evil genius that ruined three of my best plans? Oh, you are too much!”

“Eh?” Frost knew she did not in any way shape or form sound like an evil genius at the moment - but the surprise was too overwhelming. “Huh? I ruined three of your best plans? You gotta be kidding me.”

“Tell me more lies!” Eobard stood straight and edged even further into Frost’s personal space, using his height to look down imperiously at the woman. “Tell me sweet little lies.” He swayed the most miniscule amount but he stared with fiery passion at Frost. “Sweet, sweet lies.”

Frost blamed nobody but herself for her next actions. She was an adult and this clash had been coming ever since the feeling of camaraderie from them working together to teach Eddy that lesson at the diner. Or maybe just because Eobard was one hot piece of ass. That could totally be the reason - and the fact she’d been in a dry spell in regards to finding a suitable relationship. Evil-doers need sex too.

“I’ll give you sweet lies.” Frost let the back of her hand caress Eobard’s stubbly cheek. “Sweet and addictive - but they’re lies.” Her other hand was clamped onto his shoulder and she half shoved, half shook the inebriated man. Eyes bright, she licked her lips and whispered. “Do you want my lies?”

“Shut up and kiss me.”

It sounded exactly like a demand from Eobard, and that mentally ticked off the consent box for Frost. So that’s what she did - she coiled herself around the man, plunged her fingers into his dark hair and ravaged his mouth with a series of deep kisses. Long, long minutes passed. Breathing was a heavy chore for both Frost and Eobard - and when they broke contact, they were dazed and confused.

“S-sorry.” Frost hated to stutter - but that was small potatoes against the need to apologize. “I shouldn’t have -”

“Done that when I’m buzzed, yeah.” Eobard leaned against Frost, letting her support a good amount of his weight. “Tuck me into bed, okay?” He stepped out of his shoes and ignored how stiff and shocked Frost was as she openly watched him flop into the double bed. He patted the pillow beside him. “Tuck me in, I needs the sleep.”

“Far be it from me to keep you,” muttered Frost, “from the sleep.” She pulled the coverlet up to Eobard’s chin and tried to walk away - but he grabbed her wrist and tugged, urging her into the bed with him.

In a much softer and kinder tone than she’d ever heard from him, Eobard said, “Don’t make me sleep alone. I’m tired of the cold…”

Incredulous, Frost wanted to scoff, loudly - but she only sighed because Eobard rolled over and began to snore. “Pfft. All I have to offer is cold.” Fuck it. As tired as she was, and as out of it as Eobard was - there would surely be no harm in sleeping together. Facts were facts, Eobard was currently powerless or he was faking. In either case, his apparent inebriation had been flawlessly real. Maybe he’d found some really good drugs to help him get drunk? Stranger things had happened - King Shark; half man, half shark to name one such strange thing.

><><><><><

Several hours into the drive the next morning, the awkward silence between Frost and Eobard was lifted in the most unlikely of ways. A catchy tune on the radio got them humming along - and then eventually singing full blast with the music.

Obeying the unspoken offer to not talk about the previous night, Frost offered Eobard what she considered the premium choice from her bag of candy. “Hot tamale?”

Eobard made what could only be described as a grimace. “Excuse me?”

“Do you want a hot tamale? Candy?” Frost shook a handful of the small treats into her palm and offered them to Eobard. “Truce?”

“Oh...it’s candy.”

“Duh. What did you think I was gonna give you?”

“We took actual nourishment not even an hour ago.” He kept his eyes on the road, refusing to look away. “I don’t need anything extra.”

“Um, duh!” Frost wanted to snort but kept herself to a quiet eye-roll. “Nobody needs treats, but out of the goodness of my heart I’m willing to share.”

“Are we having this conversation now?” Eobard shook his head. “Maybe later.”

“Oh, there won’t be any available later.” Frost popped the candy into her mouth and chewed with gusto. Heaven would excuse her talking with a full mouth. “Screw you.”

Eobard took the high road and only thought of his response. You wish.

“Anyways, much like I said to Jimmy No-thumbs, I’ll take it under advisement.”

“Under advisement?” Despite his decision scant seconds ago to stop engaging with the bewildering woman, Eobard asked a question that would later haunt his dreams more than once. “What the hell are you talking about?”

“Oh, you’ve never run into Jimmy No-thumbs? Hah! He’s a goof.”

“That makes no sense.”

“He thought I was going to pay him back for his help - and unwanted help it was, from a bunch of other idiot thugs. Did you know he thought I needed rescuing?” Frost dumped another handful of candy into her mouth. “Hah! He’s lucky I didn’t castrate him.”

“Castrate?” Eobard asked despite knowing nothing good ever comes of a conversation that contains any mention of castration. “What did he do?”

“What did he do? Just keep making suggestions that I could clear things up by going on a date with him. I’d just ice him and get it over with but...well, he’s already got no thumbs so I’m not sure if that would be a mercy killing or not? Hm, then I thought I could freeze something else off as a discouragement.”

Eobard hoped like hell his shifting in his seat was not telegraphing how uncomfortable Eobard Junior was feeling.

Luckily, Frost kept up both sides of the conversation. “What do you think about making him Jimmy No-Di--"

"Don't even say it," Eobard said, wincing, “For the love of all things holy, don’t go there.”

“And that’s what he eventually said!” Frost concluded with extreme relish. “Don’t ever come near me again!” She giggled, slapped her knees and turned up the radio. “Of course, it was pretty hard to understand him, what with the crying and the snotty tears all over his face, but I’m sure he’ll never be able to harass another woman like what he did with me.”

><><><><

Frost took the opportunity of the coffee slash bathroom break to pull her itinerary from her jacket and check their progress against her map, hastily shoving it back after. Even with the unexpected extra person - or maybe because of her driving partner, she was on track; maybe even a little ahead of her schedule. She knew there were other things going on with Eobard. The man was known as the Reverse Flash, and as the most hated enemy of The Flash - it was beyond strange he was travelling by car. It seriously boggled the mind.

She held her hand over her heart and lifted her eyes to the heavens. Once a year she did her best to separate her naughty side from her previous existence. Once, she’d been a lawful member of society. Once, she’d been a member of a team that strived to bring down evil. All that was in the past - all but this small trip down memory lane. Frost let her shoulders relax, her head sinking to rest on her breast bone.

Closing her eyes she took a deep breath in, unconsciously lifting her head upright - held it and then breathed out. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.

“Ready?”

She clutched her chest. “HO-ly fucking shit, dude! Do I need to put a bell on you?”

“Not to be too trite, but chill, yeah?” Eobard laughed. “Get it?”

“Ha. Ha. You are soooo funny.” Frost pointed at Eobard’s empty hands. “Where’s my coffee?”

“Dunno, where’s my coffee?” He smirked; one eyebrow lifted and his eyes damn well sparkled. “Didn’t I buy you breakfast? It’s your turn to reciprocate.”

“Fancy words from a cheap, cheap man.” Rolling her eyes, Frost made a rude face. “You’re the one horning in on my vacation.” She fished out a wad of cash from her back jeans pocket and waved it under Eobard’s nose. “Hope the pot is bitter so it matches your attitude.”

“You wound me!” Eobard clasped his chest in mock horror. “Moi? Bitter? Haven’t we reached an accord?”

“Pfft. Maybe.” Frost sighed and sashayed into the trucker friendly diner attached to the gas station.

Eobard smiled and hurried into the vehicle Frost had jacked; well, she’d said she’d stolen it, but he’d seen the rental agreement - and if she’d boosted someone else’s rental - how was it she had the proper keys? Settling into the passenger seat, Eobard noticed the dwindling bag of candy at his feet. He picked it up, fastened his seatbelt and began rooting for what he considered acceptable sugar.

“Oi!” Frost thunked two coffees onto the roof of the car, yanked open the passenger door and grabbed hold of the wrist of the hand Eobard had inside the bag of candy. “Ah, that’s my stash and I don’t recall offering you anything!”

Amused, with a big grin on his face, Eobard spent a full minute looking back and forth from into Frost’s outraged eyes and where she held his wrist. “You offered earlier.”

“And you didn’t want any!” Frost frowned and considered stamping her feet. “It wasn’t good enough for you then, it’s not good enough for you now.”

“Haven’t you ever heard of people changing their minds?”

“You’re not most people.”

“Aw, that’s so sweet.” Eobard’s smile grew wider, deepening the wrinkles at the corners of his eyes. “How about we replenish your candy the next change we get? I’ll buy you something that’s my favourite.”

Realizing she was losing this battle, Frost released her companion’s wrist. “It better be amazing.”

“You’ll be endlessly grateful.”

Frost scoffed her derision, her face actually looked sour. “Big words you got, this candy had better blow my mind.”

“It will, so get your ass in the car and let’s get going.”

Eobard laughed, narrowly avoiding getting slammed with the car door. Frost stomped to the driver’s side and after dropping the drinks, silently held out her hand for the car keys. Accepting them, she jammed the key into the ignition and peeled rubber out of the parking lot. Tight-lipped and scowling, she drove towards the next city on her itinerary; Garnet.

><><><><

“This place has everything you could ever want.”

“I don’t see any ponies.”

“What?” Eobard stepped closer to Frost and peered into her eyes. “I don’t see any dementia…”

She swatted his chest ineffectually. Well, even if he didn’t move back, his chest did feel pretty damn nice. Maybe later she’d get to grope him better; one could only hope. Or perhaps plan to get him drunk again… “I’m not crazy. I’ve always wanted a pony; you said this place has everything I could ever want.”

Eobard chuckled.

Damn. When Eobard grinned like that, he was even hotter and sexier than usual. Down girl!

He said, “Within reason, it goes without saying - usually.”

Wow. How was he managing to sound amused and sexy? Damn, damn, double damn! How long had it been since her last sexual escapade? Too fucking long, that’s what. Frost giggled.

“Do I amuse you? Am I a clown to you?” Eobard smiled to show he was joking and quoting from a movie. “How about we indulge?”

Frost mindlessly swallowed and licked her lips before common sense slapped her in the face. Eobard was talking about buying whatever candy they wanted - not an endorphin freeing sex romp. Fuck. She snorted. Not ever the right kind. “You’re paying.”

[curly-q-reviews]

FLIX FROM THE NET

Bird Box, 2018 (dir. Susanne Bier)

SPOILER WARNING THERE WILL BE SPOILERS DONT READ IF U HAVENT SEEN IT YET AND WANT TO

[TW: SUICIDE, MURDER, VIOLENCE, BLOOD, GORE]

well fuck its been a while!!  happy new year y’all hope u had a Fun and Safe time!!!  i for one was at a party where we started playing Shrek at exactly 10:39 PM to see if Smash Mouth’s hit song I’m a Believer started playing right at midnight and to my utter disbelief and elation it did!!!  move over times square ball drop a new arbitrary way of celebrating the start of a new calendar year is here and it involves a large green monster with a scottish accent who really loves his onions (#me am i right ladies)

WELL ANYWAY heres a fun new series ive been thinking of starting cause ya girl watches a lot of netflix movies and has many opinions about them.  i think i’ll do a separate post about the whole Netflix Original Film trend in general and how its changed the film industry at a later date but since i just watched the above movie not too long ago i wanted to get all my thoughts out there right fuckin now!!

netflix is without a doubt the OG king of streaming services, they were really the first to get the ball rolling and then dozens of other companies scrambled to latch onto this money train while it was rolling on the tracks full steam (or should i say.... stream EL;KGHS;EKFSH; please end me) ahead.  it started out as a rental subscription service where u could pick out three movies at a time to rent and then they were sent to u in the mail (like blockbuster but now you never have to leave your house ever again to get that sweet sweet rental content).  and then the decision was made to actually start online streaming, no physical DVD’s required!  ISNT TECHNOLOGY GREAT

well whoooo boy this shit swept the nation, people couldnt get enough of such a convenient and relatively affordable service and netflix started really raking in the dough.  and at some point they got rich enough to say “hey fuck it!!!  lets make our own movies baby!!!!”  and here we are now with Netflix Original Movies and TV Shows, which means a new player has entered the movie game in a very novel and innovative way.  why pay money for a movie ticket and leave your house to go to a theater when cool new movies are being released on a subscription service u already own to watch movies you already know and enjoy?  and then u can sit butt-ass naked in ur bedroom alone stuffing ur face with cheese puffs like an insatiable cheddar beast and see something new and fun and interesting

ok so.  Bird Box.  here we have a movie based off of a book (so i guess this also counts as a Book Movies review but I DIGRESS) starring hollywood powerhouse sandra bullock, featuring Supreme Lesbian Overlord Sarah Paulson and Resident Crazy Old Man John Malkovich, directed by a relatively unknown but competent female filmmaker Susanne Bier (who also directed Things We Lost in the Fire in 2007, a moving drama starring Halle Berry).  this one definitely has a lot of proimse compared to what netflix has offered so far in terms of their original movies (im gonna get into Dumplin’ at a later date cause jesus christ what a mess) and i went in with pretty high expectations

did it deliver???  well uuhhhh yeah sort of i guess!!  we got some pretty strong performances from our leading lady bullock who really does deliver it every time, a few strong supporting roles like newcomer Trevante Rhodes of Moonlight fame (his energy on screen is just so compelling and soothing), not overly obnoxious child actors which is really all u can ask for, and overall a solid story. 

now heres where i gotta say that i couldnt help comparing this film to another movie of its kind, directed by the notorious M. Night Shyamalan.  y’all remember The Happening?  cause i remember The Happening.  i remember that it was total shit and that the twist was that it was the fucking plants making everyone kill themselves.  the PLANTS.  and i also remember mark wahlbergs dumb-ass confused face that he used in every single shot no matter the context, im AMAZED i remember zoe deschanel in this movie cause she may as well have been one of the killer plants with how little she emoted, and i remember mark wahlberg yelling at a fake office ficus and apparently i was supposed to be scared while watching this clusterfuck. 

the way that this movie was described to me by friends who had seen it before me was basically that Bird Box is a slightly better The Happening, and no truer words have ever been spoken.  we basically have the same premise going on here:  unknown force is causing people to off themselves, our lead(s) have to try and find a way to escape this unknown force without even knowing what it really is, and theres some sort of “sanctuary” they gotta try and get to (which is a common plot point in really all apocalyptic and post-apocalyptic films).  now whereas The Happening’s rules for this scenario make entirely no fucking sense (how in the fuck are u supposed to be able to out-run WIND???), Bird Box has some rules for dealing with this Unknown Thing that make slightly more sense.  when u open ur eyes while outside, the chance of the Thing making u kill urself in some horrific way is extremely high, so wear a blindfold when ur outside and keep all windows covered when ur inside.  makes sense!  thats something i can believe and get behind which makes me more immersed in the story!

unfortunately like The Happening there are still some little things that kinda dont make much sense and take u out of it.  apparently some people when they see this unknown entity dont wanna die, but instead find it absolutely beautiful, which makes them want to make everyone else look at it to see how beautiful it is.  and its insinuated that these people are mentally ill or have some sort of psychiatric issue.  i get that this adds more stakes to the situation and ups the ante, but it doesnt really sit well with me that once again, mentally ill people are the villains in a horror-type story.  and i also dont really understand why theyd then wanna go around and make other people see the thing??  unless the thing has them in a mind-control state or something and is making them do its bidding but that seems kind of a weird thing for an all-powerful evil formless entity to do. 

and that leads me to the next issue i have with Bird Box.  if ur gonna have an apocalyptic scenario where people do something as serious as kill themselves due to an unknown cause, it almost seems a little cliche and cheesy to have it be some sort of mythical celestial god-like or demon-like entity thats doing the damage.  i actually really liked where The Happening was going with its source of all the chaos being something naturally made, like the Earth deploying some sort of self-preservation mechanism or something.  the idea of that to me is actually loads more frightening than some invisible boogeyman that u cant look at.  and then Shamalamadingdong had to go and make it stupid by saying that it was fucking plants trying to kill people by releasing pheromones or some shit.  like why cant we have the best of both of these??  something naturally-occuring that maybe has even happened before in the planets history (maybe it wasnt a meteor that killed off the dinosaurs after all??), that isnt FUCKING PLANTS, and that doesnt do cheesy shit like make ur eyes turn grey and bloodshot and like whisper to u telling u to take ur blindfold off (i swear that happens multiple times it was pretty silly)

thats another thing, this movie’s tone is all over the place.  there are some moments where a more light-hearted tone is needed to break up the tension, for sure, but it almost as if the writing and dialogue werent really taking this serious of a story as seriously as they should have.  weirdly placed jokes are all over the place, there were some moments where the dialogue made me cringe cause it was so awkward.  bullock’s character gets to have some good breakdown moments which help bring the tone to the level of somberness and despair it should be at, but all the other supporting characters dont really get the same space to process whats happening to them, so it kinda comes off like they arent really affected by, say, their wife throwing herself into a burning car right in front of their very eyes. 

overall i’d still say this is a worthwhile watch, especially considering its a netflix movie.  if you’ve ever wanted to see a not-as-horrible version of The Happening that has some deeper metaphorical stuff going on about motherhood and family and shit than this is for you.  the production value is overall pretty solid (though when it comes to cinematography i actually prefer The Happening from an artistic standpoint) and sandra bullock knocks it out of the park.  go check it out if this seems like something thats up ur alley!!

ok bye for now hopefully it doesnt take me six months to write another review but we’ll see!!  my brain is a mystery and time is an illusion HAPPY 20-BI-TEEN Y’ALL

[davewakeman]

3 Changes I Think We Will See In the Business of Tickets

I’ve been chatting with folks in the world of tickets and entertainment the last few days about a number of ideas and here is a consolidated list of where folks are at right now:

We likely won’t be able to see fans really start going back to events until 2021. The science isn’t there, the safety measures won’t be sufficient, and the economy is going to be muted are just three of the reasons that have come up for this.

To get through the shutdown of events and to get to the other side, we are looking at 18-24 months.

I could go on, but those two issues are at the heart of what I’m thinking about right now and about how the coronavirus is going to change the world of ticket sales going forward.

Here are three ideas that I keep coming back to a lot lately:

Less consolidation, speculation, and commoditization: 

A few years back, I was chatting with one of the folks that helped me get started in tickets and we were talking about the challenge of commoditization of tickets and how the marketing and selling of tickets had been devolved to a financial input on a spreadsheet.

At the same time this was going on, we saw the rise of a lot more speculation and “arbitrage” from brokers.

And, we also saw a huge influx of investment money rushing into tickets.

All three of these forces have combined to create an incredibly volatile ticket market where prices fluctuate on what is hot or not and the ability to market and sell a ticket has a lot more in common with whether or not you can pick the right color to bet on at the roulette table than any skill in marketing, sales, or service.

I don’t think any of these factors are unique to the world of tickets, but it does reflect a challenge in the economy as a whole.

We’ve seen how the influence of investment dollars has perverted the market for transportation, food delivery, movies, and more.

What does this mean going forward?

In general, I’d say that we are likely to see less money flowing into the world of entertainment in the short term which will mean that folks in the ticket industry will be less able to speculate on tickets and manage their businesses on the float of their credit cards in the case of speculation and brokers.

We will also likely to see less money float into the world of tickets for the next year or so for a number of reasons including buying opportunities in other sectors, risk from the uncertainty of live events, and folks looking for safer investment opportunities in an unstable economy.

What will this mean?

It likely means that the consolidation model will be under stress because it will be much more difficult for consolidation partners to justify high priced deals that are risky as part of a portfolio of partnerships.

Finally, because we are likely to see the above two things happen, the issue of commoditization is going to fly up and bite folks in the bum.

As we have been quarantined in our homes, we’ve seen people yearn for human connection, return to old games and ideas for entertaining themselves, and we’ve seen folks have to change their consumption patterns.

To be honest, history shows that in many cases a lot of the things that we consider normal snap back pretty readily in the face of turmoil, but that cuts both ways and, typically, downturns and crisis lead to the acceleration of trends…in this case, before the pandemic, attendance was an issue and as I’ve stated many times before, you didn’t need to be a very good marketer to realize that the way that we were selling and marketing tickets was basically a textbook example of commoditization.

So what does all of this mean coming out of the pandemic?

It means that the trend for customer attention is going to be greater and the ability to just throw out tickets like a commodity is going to be even less successful than before. Meaning, the need to rethink the way that tickets, suites, and events are marketed and sold is going to increase in importance.

We could see less profit in the industry now:

I think a lot of folks were already surprised at how close to the bone many of the businesses in entertainment were being run.

This is the law of perception in action, which means that just because something seemed like a big, successful business it must have been a big, successful business.

You really only needed to read the financial reports of a lot of the publicly traded companies to recognize that they were getting high on the cheap money that was flowing into their businesses from investors, excited to be a part of entertainment, sports, concerts, etc.

Which means that logic would hold that if the businesses were strained for profit in the boom times, what will things look like during a time of uncertainty?

Not better if business practices remain the same.

Want to know something?

This might actually be a good thing.

Why?

Well, we might actually get rid of the $17 Bud Lights at Nats Park.

We might see the end of $50 t-shirts at the ballpark.

We might see a return to customer focus and innovation in marketing, product development, and service.

This may happen because consumers that were already stretched are likely to have less discretionary income, corporations that were already complaining about the need for teams to be more responsive to their needs are going to have more strength, and there will still be the lingering concern about gathering in mass groups that may not show up in the conscious decision-making process, but will definitely be there in the subconscious decision-making process.

Don’t believe me? Check out Martin Lindstrom’s ebook on the subject.

This doesn’t even begin to mention the impact of folks waiting longer and longer to buy tickets due to uncertainty, fear of not being able to get a refund, or the number of options asking for their attention.

More competition for the customers: 

Ultimately, in the recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and the financial crisis that has sprung up out of it, we are likely to see a much greater amount of competition for customers.

Why does this matter?

To begin with, if you are in business, you have one job…create and keep a customer.

Second, for many organizations, the idea of maintaining and building relationships with their customers has been a secondary consideration.

We don’t see a lot of organizations with nearly the robust customer retention plans that nonprofits might offer, subscription services, or, even many professional service firms.

The point here is that each time you give away your customer to someone else, you are paying a tax in a number of ways:

Every time StubHub sells your ticket and you don’t have a relationship with the customer, that’s a tax.

Every time your tickets are sold on Groupon or other discount sites, that’s a tax.

Every time you have to pay Google to advertise your events, subscriptions, or offers above a broker or some other content, that’s a tax.

I could go on and on, but the inability to have a direct relationship and a direct conversation with your customers or the people coming to your events…that’s a tax and an expensive one because it isn’t just money, but time, service, and relationships are all weighed down.

This post is mostly about changes that I think we will see going forward, but before I go…here are a couple of solutions to mitigate these changes:

Start now building relationships with your customers. What does this mean? What do you own that you can drive your customers and fans towards so you can start talking directly with them? Make sure you create something that allows you to have the relationship with your fans and control it. Not like Facebook, Google, or Twitter that can change your presentation at a moment’s notice.

Rethink what you are giving your guests: I didn’t get too deeply into it here, but customers are likely to wait longer than ever to buy. How can you counterattack that? You are going to need to think through what you are offering more consciously because you are going to be competing in a more competitive environment, for potentially fewer discretionary dollars, and in a market where differentiation is going to be more important. Act like it.

Review your business model: The NBA says 40% of its revenue comes from fans in the arena. So what does that mean when you consider TV money? Likely that 80%+ of an NBA team’s revenue comes from two sources. I know that there are many revenue streams that go into the live experience, but still…I think this example should highlight the need to be even more aggressive about rethinking and reimainging what is possible from your business model so that you aren’t too heavily weighed in any one direction.

What do y’all think? Let me know.

Get my weekly newsletter: ‘Talking Tickets’ with 5 top sports/entertainment/concert/ticket stories and a quick analysis. 

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3 Changes I Think We Will See In the Business of Tickets was originally published on Wakeman Consulting Group

[cynthiadshaw]

Voyage Dallas Bounce Back Strong Campaign

Given the unprecedented economic impact of the Covid-19 health crisis, we think it’s more important than ever to encourage our communities to support small businesses, mom-and-pops, independent artists, creatives and makers and help them bounce back strong.

Often people want to buy from and support local entrepreneurs and makers but don’t know how.  They might want to get in shape but don’t know how to learn about non-chain gym fitness options.  They might want family portraits but don’t know how to find the right photographer.  The Bounce Back Strong Campaign is about highlighting local businesses, creatives and makers, because learning about the local options is the first step someone can take towards supporting them.

Maya Modi | Artist + Creative Entreprenuer

Image Credits: @JessicaCernatPhotography

Hey y’all! I’m Maya and I have a tripod rescue kitty named Kiwi. Together, we create DIY Watercolor Kits- a workshop to-go! During Covid 19, I was able to sell thousands of kits all over the country to people stuck in quarantine! I love providing a service that activates individual creativity during this stressful and anxiety-driven time!

mayaxkiwi.com

@mayaxkiwi

facebook.com/mayaxkiwi

Stephanie Magilow | Owner of Jammit Jam

My name is Stephanie Magilow and I’m the owner and creator of Jammit Jam. We produce low-sugar jams that are full of amazing flavor combinations. We call these our “Beyond Toast” jams because we encourage our customers to cook with them too and have great ideas on the back of every label. We love to add them to cheeseboards, glaze them on meats, use them as dessert ingredients, and of course they are delicious on toast and PB&Js too. Our current flavors are Apple Cinnamon Bourbon, Blueberry Balsamic Black Pepper, Cherry Clove Cabernet, Peach Thyme Prosecco, Raspberry Ginger Stout and Garlic Pepper Jelly. We also carry a line of caramel sauces too – Bourbon Vanilla Bean Sea Salt Caramel Sauce (made with real vanilla beans – you can see the caviar in every spoonful) and a Mexican Chocolate Caramel Sauce (made with dark chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla, and a bit of heat). Most of our jams are only 6-7 grams of sugar per tablespoon, and all of our products are made with all real, clean-label ingredients…no preservatives. We started our business in 2014 and are nationwide now, mainly in specialty grocers, gift shops, and wine and cheeseshops. We are passionate about food and sharing recipe ideas on Instagram and Facebook.

www.jammitjam.com

www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-magilow-21305ba1/

@jammitjam

https://www.facebook.com/jammitjam/

  Bria Rogers | Owner/Curator of GoldenPyramidSunnies

My name is Bria Rogers and I love art. All of it. I come from a small town in Texas with a strong German/European influence that comes from my mother. I started traveling at a very young age to see my family overseas and fell in love with fashion, anything antique and places that were extremely beautiful. Fashion in Europe was so different than in small town, Texas where I grew up. I always admired my mom’s eyewear fashion she had accumulated over the years on her trips. I myself, started collecting vintage eyewear avidly when my mother passed down her (now vintage) collection to me. I kept finding pieces, or like I like to think…they found me! I eventually had a beautiful collection of frames and sunglasses from all over the world..each with a story we will never know. Owning anything vintage…it’s owning a piece of history and in some cases, someone else’s history. It’s as beautiful as the colors that make up the eyewear themselves. I decided to share the beauty and my talent for finding it in 2017 when I created GoldenPyramidSunnies. Each pair in my vintage online collection is curated and chosen by me. I only choose to sell eyewear that speaks to me and screams, “STATEMENT PIECE OVER HERE HONEY!” I want to provide eyewear that can be brought to life again and vice verse. It’s more than fashion. It’s a whole vibe. xxx- Bria

GoldenPyramidSunnies.com

https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/in/bria-rogers-35381794

@goldenpyramidsunnies

Beary Fluffy Friends | Mobile Stuffing Company

Beary Fluffy Friends Mobile Stuffing Company, LLC was started by two mom BFFs to give kids big and small, no matter the age, the chance to create their very own stuffed animal or as we call it, a Beary Fluffy Friend (BFF). We offer pre-stuffed animals and hand stuffing kits, complete with everything you need to make your new BFF. You can even record your voice or favorite song and put it inside your new BFF! How cool is that? We also have a large selection of outfits and costumes for your new BFF. You can purchase a BFF for yourself, a child, grandchild, parent, grandparent, friend or anyone else you think might enjoy one. Check out our website, Facebook and instagram pages.

https://www.bearyfluffyfriends.com

@bearyfluffyfriends

Beary Fluffy Friends Mobile Stuffing Company

  Jennifer Dickson | Nurse Leader & Entrepreneur

Hello! My company SITTERNEEDED is owned and operated by me, a local DFW mom and nurse.

We help families with childcare needs such as extra hands while working from home. Our company is unique in that we exclusively hire and train nursing students as our sitters. They are students in good-standing who are CPR certified, background checked and drug screened. Our team is also following infection prevention precautions and works closely with the family to create a safe environment. As a proud nurse, I want to provide families with a trusted and professional option and I want to mentor and help mentor our future nurses. Recent months have challenged us all in so many ways. Therefore, we have waived our membership fees and created reduced weekly plans to help as much as possible. Please feel free to call me directly at (972) 749-9911 for any questions I can answer. I’d love to see how we can help!

www.sitterneeded.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sitterneeded/

www.instagram.com/sitterneeded.com

https://www.yelp.com/biz/sitterneeded-rowlett

www.facebook.com/sitterneeded.com

Kendra Rene’ | Travel & Lifestyle Influencer | Blogger

Image Credits: Jeremy Armstrong

  Hi! I’m Kendra Armstrong a mom, wife, blogger and stylist. I run a blog where I share my recommendations, experiences and values with my audience and I also use my social media channels to promote as well! I think  I have a growing and loyal following and I’m often asked for recommendations and suggestions! I’d love to help highlight and encourage our communities to give back so that we can bounce back strong! Thank you so much!

https://krenearmstrong.wixsite.com/eleven11

https://www.instagram.com/kayrene___/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/kayrene.armstrong

  Lori Vann | International Authority on the Treatment of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury

Most people avoid pain, so when people actively seek it out as a way to cope with their stress it can create a lot of questions. The majority of treatment providers are not well-versed in the 20+ forms of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) and often do not respond in the most therapeutic manner. However, there are those practitioners who have dedicated their professional career to researching, treating, training others, and educating the community about this misunderstood behavior that is significantly more common than what people realize. Lori Vann has directly counseled over 520 cases of self-injury, trained over 1000 professionals, written four books on the topic, developed a curriculum for school districts & treatment centers, and offers the longest-running, exclusively NSSI support groups for teen girls, women who self-injure, and the caregivers of those who self-harm in all of North Texas, and perhaps, the State. Her passion to educate the community and help those who choose injury as a way to cope is evident. She is regarded as an International Authority on the topic. Recently, she started a private Facebook group to post insights, answer questions, serve as a safe place for those who want to know more or be supported, and those who want to be better educated. Check out NSSI: Non-Suicidal Self-Injury FB group and answer the 3 questions to join. https://www.facebook.com/groups/289208102223000/?source_id=598877876826770

www.VannAssociates.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorivannlpcs/

@LoriVannLPCS

www.LoriVann.com

https://www.facebook.com/LoriVannMALPCS/

  Devin Connelly | Video Production & Photography

My name is Devin Connelly with Ethos Media. I’ve been operating in the D/FW since 2013 employing a variety of industry freelance professionals all throughout the company’s history. Our staple service is video production for just about any type of project ranging from studio work to outdoor event coverage.

We’ve helped several inventors get their crowdfunding campaigns off the ground, highlighted a number of community events and non-profit organizations, and worked with businesses on live streaming and a host of promotional content. I’d say what’s special about our business is the ability to be comprehensive when it comes to creating digital tools to get the word out. Traditional video is one thing, but we frequently have combined that with traditional photography and even 360 content as well, which enables viewers to look at a video or photo in any direction. Like many in our industry, we’ve taken a hit from COVID-19 due to the shutdown of all events as well as the economic shutdown which has caused many organizations to tighten up their operating budgets. We look forward to being able to bounce back strong soon and welcome the opportunity to help other businesses bring their content to professional video with a plan on how to use it effectively with their target market.

https://www.ethosmedia.net

https://www.linkedin.com/company/ethos_media

https://www.instagram.com/ethos_media_productions/

https://www.youtube.com/c/ethosmediachannel

https://www.facebook.com/ethosmediaproductions/

  Lisa H Harrington

I have four resources right now that could make a difference for local businesses. A couple of them are at no charge!

1. www.Vistage.com: Vistage has opened a great number of resources to the public at no charge. The research department has compiled hundreds of documents, webinars and more to help you navigate stormy waters. Webinars with authors such as Patrick Lencioni & Jim Collins, information about PPP loans and subsequent forgiveness, how to handle remote workforce and much more are available. https://www.vistage.com/leading-in-challenging-times/

2. www.Successinkind.org: This is a new organization out of DFW that is helping match client needs with pro bono coaching resources. Founder Susan Shapiro has set this up so that you can answer a few questions on the website and she will match you to the appropriate coach or consultant in the area. I strongly encourage you to take a look & bookmark this site.

3. Strategy Workshops: I have developed, over the last 20 years, a concise strategy workshop that has helped many people build a solid foundation for their business that will drive them forward into the future. This is now available via Zoom. There has never been a better time to re-calibrate your strategic plan if you have one, and to get one going if you don’t. Since we know that only about 20% of American businesses have a strategic plan, you’re ahead of the game just by having this important conversation.

4. CEO Peer Groups: Vistage membership has never been more valuable. I facilitate the only two groups in the Mid-Cities, Texas area. Please call me if you’d like to know more about why the average Vistage member stays with us for 5-7 years!

www.LHHstrategy.com

www.linkedin.com/in/lisahharrington

  Daphne Moon | Priestess, Yogi & DOW Board Member

In addition to her non-profit work, yoga instruction and Spiritual Development work, Daphne and her husband Gregg own Demeter’s Den – an online Apothecary with a witchy, irreverent twist. With items like Calm Your Tits, Witch! Tea and Chill the F*ck Out, Honey! (Herbal infused honey for insomnia and anxiety) you’re sure to find something that makes you smile. She also offers 100% organic and handmade bath and body care products and more! She is offering VoyageDallas readers 10% off orders of $40 or more with the coupon code CHILLAF

www.demetersden.net

@priestessdaphnemoon @demetersdenwitchery

Www.youtube.com/channel/UCjBgP01YhPuQ_Gv14FenrjA

www.facebook.com/priestessdaphnemoon www.facebook.com/demetersdenwitchery

La Juana (LJ) Chambers Lawson | Opportunities to grow and pivot your business are aplenty. Though choosing which opportunities to pursue and leverage is a strategic endeavor that we at Tacit Growth Strategies are happy to guide you through.

Image Credits: Photo of La Juana (LJ) Chambers Lawson of Tacit Growth Strategies, also known as TGS: The PM Firm; Photo credit to Heather Stille of Stille Photography.

We at Tacit Growth Strategies are proud to announce that we have grossed more than $120,000 in profit and savings for our clients, better known as Tacit Growers, to date in the year 2020. In fulfillment of our mission to strategically grow a network of better business, we are growing our firm of Consultants and SMEs all summer and year long in order to serve our Tacit Growers faster and more effectively. Life is easier with Tacit Growers! #growthistacit

https://growthistacit.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/tacit-growth-strategies-llc/

http://instagram.com/growthistacit

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcEybc4OEMzDIwwwH24j1OA

https://www.yelp.com/biz/tacit-growth-strategies-llc-san-antonio

Real Management Talk with LJ and Jocelyn podcast: https://anchor.fm/real-mgmt-talk-lj-jocelyn/episodes/Real-Management-Talk-with-LJ-and-Jocelyn—Episode-1-Knowing-Your-Worth—Not-Undervaluing-Your-Contribution-eeu4d9

https://www.facebook.com/growthistacit/

  April Roache | Author & Entrepreneur

My Name is April Roache. I am the owner of Helena’s Collection, Locs of Luv Haircare and Author of 2 mental health journals for men and women. Helena’s Collection started as a custom handmade jewelry Company, then I decided to have unique purses, I refurbished Furniture (when Requested), and I have women’s clothing, and sometimes shoes. Being an entrepreneur and trying to fund you a business solo wow still maintaining regular household bills and just other necessities can become very draining. I honestly feel like I lack customers from time to time simply because my name is not out there the way it should be. Even if you choose not to purchase from me, head over to my website and check me out and refer me to someone you feel will love to purchase from me.

www.helenascollection.com

@helenascollection

Instagram: @myhealing_journal

Gabriela Yvonne | AI Behavioral Analyst & Product Formulator

Hi there, I am Gabriela Yvonne and I am a product formulator for my skincare brand Mint n Coco, an AI behavioral analyst, and a dance choreographer on my free time. As a product formulator, I carefully craft skincare formulas that are made with clean ingredients while also remaining effective and versatile. Having a science and research background, I have been able to formulate personal care products that people can feel good about using because they’re safe. So many ingredients fly under the radar, and are usually ineffective or possibly causing more harm than good. I wanted to bridge that gap in what is being used in skincare or body care and make a brand that is transparent with what we use, and entirely unique in its own way. Though my team is quite small, we each are able to wear different hats and create products and run a brand that we are truly proud of. The foundation of the brand is transparency and inclusivity. We want people who might otherwise be excluded from access to high quality products, be able to have access. We want to represent different types of people and also take great care of our planet with how we create these products. I really enjoy being innovative with what I am creating and have grown to have an amazing customer base.

www.mintncoco.shop

@mintn_coco

  L B | Owner & Creative behind the Brand

I was a teenage parent who ended up dropping out of college and getting lost in life! I realized I had more to offer this world and my family and decided to make a change and stop giving up! I had always had a passion for creating and structure so I creatively constructed Ben Haited to impact generations well after I’m gone! Ben Haited stands for anyone trying to better themselves against the hate of society! Empowering to never give up and reminding them of their importance via motivational post and merchandise!

Benhaited.com

@ben_haited

  Rishika Kapoor | Periodontist

As board-certified periodontists located in Dallas, Irving, Keller and Fort Worth, TX, the practitioners at PerioLife have served the Dallas- Fort Worth community as specialists in oral health and wellness since 2001. Staffed with renowned and acclaimed periodontists, the team at PerioLife offers specialized treatments to treat gum disease, replace missing teeth, and aesthetically enhance your smile.

PerioLife specializes in periodontics, dental implants, and helping you look and feel your best. Through the use of conservative and surgical treatments, they enable you to rediscover the comfort and confidence needed to eat, speak, laugh, and enjoy life. Whether you need treatment for gum disease, wisdom teeth extraction, gum grafting, bone regeneration, dental implants, or scaling and root planing, if you’re in the Dallas, Keller, Irving, or Fort Worth area, call us at 972-869-9393 or book an appointment online at periolife.com!

periolife.com

@periolife.periodontics

https://www.yelp.com/biz/periolife-dallas

https://www.facebook.com/PerioLife/

Carlos Harleaux | Poet, Author, & Publisher

Image Credits: Photography by Chris Booth (Mr. FotoBooth)

  Hello, My name is Carlos Harleaux and I am a poet, author, and publisher.

As an author, I have released 11 books (7 poetry books and 4 novels). My latest releases are an anniversary edition of my poetry book, Hindsight 20/20 (with a new cover and 20 new poems/essays), and Only for One Night (a joint novel with Akela Renae, about a pastor and first lady who live a double life).

My books and all books released under 7th Sign Publishing are available on my website at peauxeticexpressions.com/shop. Although I typically make many connections through in-person events, I also enjoy interacting with readers online who are looking for a release and escape during these uncertain times.

As a publisher, 7th Sign Publishing is available to assist authors to get their books to the printed stage. To date, 7th Sign has published over 20 books in 7 years.

peauxeticexpressions.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-harleaux/

https://www.instagram.com/peauxetic/

https://www.youtube.com/DaPhrozenOne

https://www.facebook.com/carlos.harleaux

Eliger Crenshaw | Clarity Coach and Marketing specialist

Good day, my people hope everyone is doing well… Eliger Crenshaw here but feel free to call me Clarity coach EJ 🤘. I just wanted to spread the word about one of the many services that my company offers. Have you ever wanted your own cartoon character or cartoon animation promo?👀 Of course, you have we are all still kids on the inside and everyone loves cartoons😁 but did you know it’s actually a very effective way of creating awareness? Being in a world with so many things demanding attention sometimes it can be a struggle just trying to get people to pay attention to your brand and your brand”s greatness. well, one thing I can tell you as a marketing coach and marketing specialist is that using animation is a sure way of getting attention, from there you can mention your message, service, or value, it’s actually a very effective marketing technique! My company offers many services that are effective for building and scaling your brand and we love what we do. Need more info or want to see examples of our work, let’s chat we actually have a social media cartoon promo special that you would love.

DallyWoodtalentagency.com

Yaki Damingo

Claritycoachej

Jessica Martinez | Barber

Hi my name is Jess. I’m currently a Barber in Main Street Barbershop in The Colony Tx 75056. Ever since Covid 19 started, it has affected us all. From our families to our jobs. Unfortunately it has taken a toll especially in small local business. Some business owners have even had to shut down their life long dream. Due to this virus. For us Barbers, we make an impact in our community. Not only do we give haircuts to our clients, but we build friendships as well. We make sure we sanitize after every client that’s been in our chair. Just because this virus is out there, doesn’t mean we drop ever and stop living. However, by using safe precautions we can still maintain our daily lives.

http://121barber.booksy.com/

jess_fades084

https://m.yelp.com/biz/main-street-barbershop-the-colony

https://m.facebook.com/barber121/

  Lauren Farmer | Owner / Master Esthetician

My name is Lauren Farmer and I am the owner/ Esthetican at Blush N Beauty Spa in Dallas, TX. I absolutely love this industry and it is my true passion to help others with skincare and feeling amazing about themselves. I have been in skincare for over 10 years and have enjoyed every second of it! I offer a variety of skincare treatments from acne, anti aging to pigmentation and even skin tightening. My skincare line which I private label is Paraben & Sulfate free so I offer clean skincare for both treatments and at home regime which I think is extremely important to our health & environment. I also offer waxing, lash lift, fibroblast skin tightening, microneedling, and laser lipo treatments. I am a one stop shop for all of your skin and body needs!

www.blushnbeautyspa.com

blush_n_beauty_spa_

Blush N Beauty Spa

Tonya Harrison | Business Owner & Registered Nurse

Image Credits: Creative Director: Tonya Harrison Products: iSOCiETY COSMETICS Studio/Photographer: Portraits By Ajax/Ajax Rodriguez MUA: Starza Model: Jessi Sallinger Wardrobe Design: Tonya Harrison

  THE FUTURE OF COSMETICS HAS ARRIVED! WE ARE THE VISIONARY COSMETICS BRAND, THAT MAKES YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION A LASTING IMPRESSION. OUR SUPERIOR LINE OF PRODUCTS IS DESIGNED WITH SPECIALIZED FORMULAS, PRODUCING THE VERY HIGHEST STANDARDS IN PIGMENTATION AND WEARABILITY. PRESERVE YOUR iDENTiTY AND FLAUNT YOUR iNDiViDUALiTY WITH THE INNOVATION OF iSOCiETY COSMETICS.

Our products are made using only ingredients that have been FDA (U.S.A.) and Health Canada approved. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge, we do not use the services of any other research establishment to conduct animal testing on our behalf, either of a product or any product ingredient. Our products are: • Paraben Free • Made in Canada and Germany* • Hypo-Allergenic • Allergy Tested • Non-Comedogenic • Fragrance Free • Not Tested on Animals

YOU MAY HAVE SEEN US IN: * Official Cosmetics Brand Of Miss Universe Jamaica 2017 Season * Featured Brand in the 60TH Grammy’s Performers & Presenter’s Gift Bags 2018 Season * Cosmopolitan Magazine * We’ve also worked with Tamra Simmons (EP Of Surviving R. Kelly)

https://isocietycosmetics.com/

https://www.instagram.com/isocietycosmetics/

https://m.facebook.com/isocietycosmetics/

  Myah Brown | CEO of Myah Symone Boutique & Flight Attendant

Image Credits: Nelsoszn Photography

  Hello! My name is Myah Brown, I am the Owner/CEO of Myah Symone Boutique. Myah Symone is a boutique that provides trendy accessories of good quality at an affordable price. We focus on giving back to charity on a bi-monthly basis and all of our packaging is eco-friendly/sustainable.

Dressing good leads to feeling good, which leads to making others feel good, Myah Symone Boutique helps you accomplish the dressing good part of your day. From office professional to laid back brunch we have something for every personality, style, and event.

Myah Symone Boutique also has handmade headbands, necklaces, and bracelets.

www.myahsymone.com

www.instagram.com/myahsymone

www.facebook.com/myahsymoneboutique

  The post Voyage Dallas Bounce Back Strong Campaign appeared first on Voyage Dallas Magazine | Dallas City Guide.

source http://voyagedallas.com/2020/08/05/voyage-dallas-bounce-back-strong-campaign-2/