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purpleorchid85 · 4 years ago

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Buddie Fanfic Rec List (Part 2)

Missing You Makes Me Angry

By MyShipSailsHere

Summary: After the Grocery store fight, Eddie isn't done yelling at Buck.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21140348#main

More Than You Know

By nilshki

Summary: Eddie's forgiven Buck, and things are back to normal between them. By normal, we of course mean they are in love with each other but haven't confessed to anyone yet. After a bad call, Buck goes over to Eddie's to keep him some company. Except Eddie isn't home. And when Eddie does arrive, he bruised and bloody.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21272087

Morning Coffee

By shutupheather

Summary: Being a good friend leads Maddie to find out something about her little brother.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/26985814

Mug Speech

By deluweil

Summary: Eddie didn't notice the first time Buck handed him a mug full of coffee, that the mug had something to say but when he started noticing the mugs he was handed had meaning he'd go back to this moment and remember that this one said "Just be grateful I made it out of bed." To be fair Buck wasn't wrong.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/26225488

Mr July

By DarkFairytale

Summary: Both Buck and Eddie are asked to take part in another charity fireman calendar.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/22297378

More Than You Know

By nilshki

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21272087

My Fake Fiancé

By RapunzelGirl13

Summary: Buck’s ex-girlfriend Abby will be at the Christmas Party that he is attending. He’s been looking forward to it all month but now he knows he can’t go, as he’s still single while Abby is engaged to handsome a British guy. Rather than letting Buck stay home and mope, his best friend Eddie offers to pose as Buck’s fiancé.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21863263

My heart that pounds underneath my flesh

By kaitlia777

Summary: So, it started out as a little bet, but once Eddie saw Buck giving a lapdance, all bets were off....

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21662197

Not So Much Sneaking As...

By mansikka

Summary: Buck and Eddie's relationship is new, which is why they are sneaking around. Nobody suspects a thing. Do they?

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/28383837

Operation Get Two Idiots Together Alone To Do Stuff

By damnedifyoudo

Summary: Hen is really tired of walking in on Buck and Eddie in the firehouse and so is everybody else, so she hatches a plan.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/20808980

Pink Fluffy Handcuffs

By EdithBlake

Summary:

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21578935

Say the word and i'm yours

By quietuniverse

https://archiveofourown.org/works/24873772

Secret Santa Surprise

By iwillgodownwithbuddie (rebeldawgspirategirl)

Summary: Buck has the best secret Santa.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21811630

Single Beds in San Diego

By firstdegreefangirl

Summary: Eddie and Buck take Chris on a weekend trip to San Diego. Buck books the hotel, and things go wrong. But it all works out in the end.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/26718106

Six Different Ways To Mark Your Territory

By like_a_heartbeat_drives_you_mad

Summary: Or "5 times Eddie was a possessive bastard, and Buck (being the oblivious puppy he is) didn't notice. And the one time he couldn’t help but notice."

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21459856

Talk Dirty To Me

By Lopithecus

Summary: Eddie talks dirty to Buck.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/26346721?view_adult=true

The Education Of Eddie Diaz

By manskikka

Summary: Buck and Eddie enter into a friends with Benefits relationship during one drunken night.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/22635607?view_full_work=true

The Feeling’s Mutal

By manskikka

Summary: Buck and Eddie have been thinking about each other. And trying not to think about each other. Which of course means they're thinking even harder. Wouldn't it just be easier to do this face to face, and not have to do any thinking at all?

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/29654472

The Fire Truck Of Love

By Soph_Writes_118

Summary: When Chimney decides to decorate the 118's truck with mistletoe for the holidays and spread a little love to the people of Los Angeles, festive chaos ensues. Will the magic of the mistletoe be enough to bring our two favourite clueless firefighters together at last?

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/27842545

Two Idiots Finally Get Their Shit Together (Finally...Hen and Athena win the Bet)

By Therealdeo

Summary: What was supposed to be a routine day, didn't end up being one. But Buck and Eddie aren't really complaining.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21643021

Two Weeks Noticed

By minkcantsew

Summary: With Christopher away at camp, Eddie finally has a chance to catch his breath after the hellish year he's had. Meanwhile Buck is still reeling from the sudden reappearance of Abby. On a routine night of movies and pizza, Eddie and Buck discuss some feelings and stumble into something that may just take some time to figure out. Good thing they have two weeks to get a handle on it.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/24385045

We Aren't Married! (5 Times +1)

By Arsenal

Summary: 5 times that people mistook Buck and Eddie as a couple and they had to correct them + The one time that they didn't.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21450499

Who's The Best Kisser?

By Wolves_of_Innistrad

Summary: Buck signs up for a YouTube video where he judges people's kissing skills while blindfolded. He has no idea who the contestsants are, and they have no idea who they're kissing until they arrive.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21438991

With(out) A First Date

By firstdegreefangirl

Summary: Buck and Eddie become boyfriends. Six months later, they start dating.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/24104269?view_full_work=true

Words of "Affirmation"?

By firstdegreefangirl

Summary: Eddie tries to show Buck how much he loves him by leaving post-it love notes for him to find. It's cute ... until it isn't anymore.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/23515090#main

Wrong address, right move

By crushingcryptid

Summary : Buck ordered some sex toys, but accidently sent them to Eddie's house. Eddie opens the package, and what ensues is an awkward conversation that becomes not so awkward.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/22135543

You Spelled My Name Wrong...Again

By buckiaz (orphan_account)

Summary: Buck is a barista who on purpose messed Eddie's name every time Eddie orders his coffee. It's a way for him to get Eddie's attention.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/23602951

You Got Me Tripping (Oh, Stumbling)

By like_a_heartbeat_drives_you_mad

Summary: Buck is a disaster bi and Eddie is not any better.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21676984

Zoom Into My Heart

By Shanimar

Summary: Buck didn't know that Zoom shared your private chats at the end of the meeting, but he's about to find out.

AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/23432743

#Buddie #Buddie Fic Rec List #BuckandEddie #Buck&Eddie #BuckEddie #BuckleyDiaz #9-1-1 #Evan 'Buck' Buckley #Edmundo 'Eddie' Diaz #Buck #Eddie #gay #hot firemen #LAFD

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mimisempai · 3 years ago

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Every time I look at you, I fall in love again

Summary:

As he gazes at his sleeping lover, Loki remembers the moments where he fell in love with Mobius.OrFive times when Loki's heart pounded in a special way and once when it pounded in a familiar way.

Notes:

Tumblr request : a 5+1 - it could be about moments in their relationship where Loki falls more in love w/ Mobius

https://archiveofourown.org/works/32821156

2084 words - Rating G

For once, Loki woke up this morning before Mobius.

Leaning on his hand, he took the opportunity to watch his beloved while he slept.

As he gazed at the sleeping features of his lover, he was once again taken aback by the strength of his feelings.

Loki had little or no experience with love, so he had nothing to compare to what he was experiencing with Mobius right now.

No one had made him feel the way the man made him feel.

It was as if Mobius had wrapped his roots around Loki's heart little by little but without imprisoning him.

Mobius' love had set him free.

In return, Loki's feelings had taken root in Mobius' constancy.

Sometimes Loki liked to think about how his feelings had developed, because it had all happened so quickly that he had never been able to enjoy those stolen first moments.

It would be hard for Loki to say exactly when he had begun to notice that his relationship with Mobius was different from any relationship he had had before, but what he was sure of was that no one had ever been able to see through him as quickly as Mobius.

"I don't like to talk."

"But you do like to lie, which you just did. Because we both know you love to talk. Talkie-talkie."

Honestly, at that moment, Loki thought fondly, if he hadn't been so angry at being found out, he would have laughed.

As a matter of fact, it had become a fond memory for them. Whenever Loki would go into one of his grandiloquent tirades, Mobius would simply make this little gesture with his hand and would mouth "Talkie Talkie"

" You don't know anything about me.

"Maybe I'd like to learn."

It was probably at that moment that Mobius had begun to touch something in Loki that no one had ever touched. The fact that anyone would even bother to genuinely learn about him was in itself new. Except for his mother and Thor, most people had always assumed the worst of him.

"Honestly, I'm actually a fan. Yeah. And I guess I'm wondering why does someone with so much range just wanna rule?

Mobius had been the first to make him question himself.

Of course, at the time, he was not at all receptive to what Mobius' words really meant.

It had taken him some time to admit the truth.

The moment he had admitted it, the naked truth, without any more artifice, he had been ready to receive the final blow, the ratification of his vileness, but no, nothing like that.

"Because it's part of the illusion. It's the cruel, elaborate trick conjured by the weak to inspire fear."

"'A desperate play for control.' You do know yourself."

"A villain."

"That's not how I see it."

That's not how I see it.

At that moment, Loki's heart had pounded for the first time.

The man in front of him had seen all the lowliness that Loki was capable of and yet he did not see him as a villain.

From the first hours of their meeting, he had made it impossible for Loki not to love him and from then on, his feelings had grown exponentially.

As he walked down the path of his memories, Loki continued to gaze at Mobius as he slept. A small miracle in itself for Loki.

Knowing who Loki was, Mobius slept in his presence. The perfect image of absolute trust.

Loki sometimes still had trouble feeling worthy of such trust.

Seeing him sleeping like that, he thought of the day when he himself had first fallen asleep in this way with Mobius.

The day he fell a little more in love with Mobius.

It started with Mobius taking the blame for the failure of their first mission together, when it was all Loki's fault. They could have just pruned him, but no, Mobius had pleaded his case to Ravonna.

Then Loki had presented his theory to Mobius, admittedly with a rather shaky metaphor, even ruining one of his lover's favorite dishes.

"Well, here's a fun theory. You lure me out into the field, and then you stab me in the back. And that's a theory I don't wanna test."

"I'd never stab anyone in the back. That's such a boring form of betrayal."

"Loki, I've studied almost every moment of your entire life. You've literally stabbed people in the back, like, 50 times."

"Well, I'd never do it again, because it got old."

Mobius laughed and chose to follow Loki's theory, even though Loki had given him no reason to believe in him until now. Even though his theory was based on almost nothing, Mobius had chosen to believe Loki.

Then they returned from Pompeii and something happened that had never happened to Loki, he had fallen asleep. Loki, who was distrustful of everything and nothing, had simply fallen asleep in the presence of someone he hardly knew. As if his heart had understood before his mind that he had nothing to fear from Mobius.

When Mobius had woken him up, Loki's heart had pounded for the second time, and it wasn't fright that had caused it, but the realization that Loki was falling in love and falling deeply.

As he looked up from his contemplation of Mobius, Loki's gaze fell on the photo that lay on his nightstand. A memory of their first vacations, when Mobius had finally realized his dream. In the middle of the paradisiacal decor of an island in Midgard, Loki had taken this photo of Mobius piloting -at last- a jetski. So much joy on his face.

Another thing that made Loki fall in love a little more: the passion of his lover for some small insignificant things.

Josta, salad, jet-ski...

"You know, some things... Actually, most things in history are kinda dumb, and everything gets ruined eventually. But in the early 1990s, for a brief, shining moment, there was a beautiful union of form and function, which we call the jet ski, and a reasonable man cannot differ."

"You ever been on one?"

"No... No. I think a TVA agent showing up on a jet ski on the Sacred Timeline, that would create a branch for sure."

"Oh it'd be fun, though."

"Yeah, it'd be really fun."

"So, why read about them?"

"It just helps remind me of what we're fighting for."

The expression Mobius had had at that moment, when he had said something like that with such candor had made Loki fall even more.

And his heart had pounded for the third time.

While he had sensed that what would happen next would destroy what Mobius believed in, Loki had not been able to stop himself from wanting to protect him and his happiness, and to hope that one day he would be able to realize his dream.

With his eyes on the photo commemorating a very real memory, he felt a sense of satisfaction, because his lover had been able to realize this dream and Loki had been there to witness it.

"Loki... Don't go..."

Loki's eyes returned from the picture to his lover, whose features were now tense, probably from a nightmare.

"I'm here love, I'm not leaving. I'm staying with you."

Saying this, Loki gently strokes Mobius' cheek and his expression immediately relaxes. After a few seconds,he was sleeping peacefully again.

Loki didn't need to read Mobius' mind to know what he had dreamed.

He had known that he had taken a huge risk when he had decided to follow Sylvie and he had known that the reunion with Mobius would not be easy.

After all, he had betrayed him. But of all the acts of betrayal that Loki had been guilty of, this was the one that had cost him the most. Because of the feelings he was beginning to have for Mobius.

But what he hadn't imagined was that Mobius would almost turn into a jealous lover, even though at that point they didn't have that kind of relationship at all.

Loki had been incredibly surprised that it wasn't Loki's betrayal that had hurt Mobius the most, but the fact that he had made a connection with Sylvie.

"Come on. Look at your eyes. You like her."

"You like her. Does she like you?"

"Both of you were just swooning over each other."

"It's breaking my reality right now. What an incredible seismic narcissist. You fell for yourself."

"I'm supposed to believe your terrorist girlfriend"

"What, your female self that you have some demented crush on…"

Loki's heart had pounded for the fourth time when he realized what it could mean. He had fallen a little more at the thought of Mobius, at the thought that the man might be jealous, at the thought of what it might mean about Mobius' feelings for him.

Then there had been that moment of grace, the exact moment when Loki had known that he was definitely in love with Mobius.

For the first time, when everything was against him, someone had chosen to believe in him. That someone was Mobius.

Even though he was clearly angry with Loki, he still listened to him and chose to believe him.

Despite Loki's attempts at manipulation, betrayals, and mistakes, Mobius renewed his faith in him and spoke those words that were imprinted in Loki's head.

"You could be whoever, whatever you wanna be, even someone good. I mean, just in case anyone ever told you different."

Loki's throat tightened as he was overwhelmed by the emotion of the memory.

Mobius had no idea how many wounds he had healed in Loki at that moment.

After what Loki had done, where Odin and Thor had not forgiven him, not only had Mobius forgiven him but even more amazingly, he had shown that he believed that Loki was capable of being good, of doing good.

At that moment, Loki's heart did not pound once, but thousands of times, at full speed. Because of the joy and love that filled it.

The sudden disappearance of Mobius just afterwards had been all the more cruel. Because at that moment, they didn't know about the Void and Loki had thought Mobius was lost forever. He had been devastated.

He couldn't help but touch Mobius' face, gently so as not to wake him, then he whispered softly, "You too Mobius, do not ever leave me."

They had found each other again.

When he first saw Mobius after he thought he had lost him, it only confirmed Loki's feelings for Mobius.

The way his heart had pounded at the sight of the one he loved was impossible to ignore.

So when they had to part once again, Loki had not been able to resist the pull of his heart, and instead of grabbing Mobius' hand, he had taken the man in his arms.

Loki had held Mobius in his arms many times since that moment, but he would never forget the feeling of that first hug. The feeling that the universe was in place. That he was where he belonged, that he was home. He had expressed without words all that he felt and Mobius had answered him in the same way. They had to part again, but this time the bond between them was undeniable and unbreakable.

They had to go through a lot to finally enjoy their love, without the sword of Damocles, without the threat of the end of the world, or of a multiversal war over their heads, but they had made it. They were here now.

With each passing day, Loki fell a little more in love.

The Midgardian saying, I love you more than yesterday and less than tomorrow, had become his.

Because every time he looked at Mobius and realized the love they shared, he felt like it was stronger.

Mobius moved in his sleep, making the sheet slide off his shoulder.

Loki could not resist and leaned over to kiss the bare shoulder. Mobius woke up and turned to face Loki with a sleepy smile on his lips.

"Hey there handsome," Mobius whispered to Loki, gently kissing Loki's cheek. Loki's heart fluttered in a familiar way now, at such gentleness and at the adoration he read in his lover's eyes.

"Hey love," whispered Loki.

Mobius kissed him, his lips pressing lazily against Loki's. Loki smiled and kissed him back, happy.

Together they enjoyed the delights of a perfect, quiet morning.

_________

All other one-shots of this series here : X

As always, bear with me as it is not beta'd I hope you enjoyed it 🥰

#Lokius #loki series #loki #mobius m. mobius #lokius fic #moki #wowki #time husbands #time frost #established relationship #memories #5+1 things #lazy morning

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it-fits-i-ships · 3 years ago

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Combing through every single episode of Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous for Yasammy moments to write meta analysis about part 2 (parts 1, 3, and 4)

After Yaz breaks her ankle we have this moment of Sammy expressing her gratitude and admiration, Sammy wants to let Yaz know she sees how strong, brave, and deeply caring Yaz is but, as Brooklyn points out, Yaz isn’t in a place to hear her and needs time and space to process her feelings about Sammy’s secret double life as a spy, she goes into self-defense mode and pushes Sammy away again Just as a side note, I find it really interesting how Brooklyn reaches out to Sammy to give her advice about Yaz, Brooklyn is the one who caught Sammy spying and it’s Brooklyn’s phone that Sammy stole and accidentally broke so I think it’s very cool of Brooklyn to step in because she can see that Sammy is hurting over her fallout with Yaz and is in desperate need of a supportive friend Sammy definitely backs off trying to talk to Yaz but continues to show her care and concern in little ways like asking the group if there is another way to get to the dock besides going on foot so Yaz doesn’t hurt herself more, on the monorail when Ben gets carried off by Pteranodons and they assume that he’s dead it hits all of them really hard, Sammy starts to panic and Yaz forgets for a moment that she’s supposed to be mad and instinctively comforts her before remembering all of their circumstances, Sammy can’t help herself when she sees Yaz fall as they’re running for the dock after the group has to abandon the monorail and rushes over to check on her, Yaz is clearly still angry and refuses Sammy’s help, but by the time they actually reach the dock we can see that Yaz has realized she really does need Sammy’s help and support (both physically and for emotionally) and that there are worse things that could happen than Sammy telling some lies for her family’s sake, at this point we can see that Yaz has decided to work on forgiving Sammy and trusting her again because she initiates contact with her by casually placing her elbow on Sammy’s shoulder at the dock This trend of re-establishing their bond continues as the show enters season 2, in which the group is still stuck on the island and has to find the emergency beacon, we can see Yaz and Sammy huddling together for comfort and to keep each other safe when they have to hide behind a fallen tree from some dinosaurs, we also see Yaz lean on Sammy and give a relieved sigh once Darius gives the all-clear and she stays there for a while, when Yaz accidentally brings up Ben we can see that she’s still processing how much his apparent death has affected her and the rest of the group, Yaz is now clinging to Sammy not because she is afraid Sammy will stop liking her or talking to her like she was in season 1 but because she needs the positivity, support, and encouragement that Sammy brings to her life in order to help her through all of the emotional turmoil that being on the island is putting her through Also, Sammy helping Yaz up, helping her walk, and otherwise supporting her in any way she can is just so sweet, I know Sammy is a very positive and helpful person and she does what she can for everyone in the group but she has always gone above and beyond when it comes to Yaz, she even convinces Yaz to stay at camp and rest while she, Brooklyn, and Darius go look for supplies (with such a gentle tone and soft expression that Yaz has no choice but to embrace the love and care that Sammy is putting out there), Yaz clearly wants Sammy to stay with her but I think Sammy realizes that it’s not good for Yaz to only depend on her so she gives Yaz a warm smile before she goes but she still leaves with the others so Yaz can grow and Sammy can contribute to the whole group, this sets up the beginnings of a much healthier dynamic between Yaz and Sammy in which they can have their own lives and friendships outside of each other Yaz has clearly forgiven Sammy at this point as we don’t see any kind of bitterness in their interactions at all and after the group makes their tree fort and they have some time to rest and relax away from the pressures of constantly running from dinosaurs I think Yaz really starts to

process her deeper feelings for Sammy, she wants to spend more time with Sammy and get even closer, we can see how eager she is to join Brooklyn and Sammy on their venture out into the jungle to locate the weird frozen flower patch that Brooklyn stumbled upon a while back, Yaz definitely strikes me as the type of person who has never been in love before so with everything else going on (and with her mind full of much stronger fears of losing the others in the group, especially Sammy, which I will talk about more later in this post series) her feelings are bound to manifest strongly We can see that Yaz is now actively playing that question game with Sammy, getting to know her better, and exchanging witty banter back and forth, obviously Yaz cares about all of the people in the group on some level or she wouldn’t have been so upset when they thought Ben died but notice how she is much more interested in talking to and learning about Sammy than she is in talking to and learning about Brooklyn, however she does try her best to loop Brooklyn into the conversation once Sammy cues her to Can we just take a second to appreciate the silent conversations that Yaz and Sammy have? I’m a sucker for some good non-verbal communication because it means that the characters are very close and feel connected with each other, there’s also the fact that since Yaz wants to be around her again Sammy spends so much time making physical contact with her, touch is clearly one of Sammy’s main love languages Yaz goes to help Sammy when the gun case falls on her only to be stopped by Tiff (who tries to prevent Yaz from running away to get help) and Sammy tackles Tiff to the ground to get her to let go of Yaz, honestly I know that Sammy realizes that Yaz getting free is their best chance of getting the help they need but I think it’s really telling that she went so hard, Yaz is clearly her favorite person on the island and Sammy isn’t about to let Tiff hurt her, I also find it really telling that when Yaz sees Sammy and Darius on the security camera monitors she looks relieved and excited and then we get a set of shots that imply she’s looking just at Sammy, this is followed by such a soft, warm, loving expression from Yaz that it melts my gay heart, and of course she’s incredibly concerned when she sees Tiff and Mitch approaching During their organized stampede, Yaz has to abandon the Jeep and, without hesitation, she leaps from the car into Sammy’s waiting arms, this is a mark of a great amount of character growth for Yaz because she not only trusts Sammy now but literally trusts her with her life, we also get an adorable moment when they are dismounting in which Sammy helps Yaz get down and holds both of her hands, when they all go in for a group hug we see Yaz place her hand on Sammy’s waist (as I mentioned in part 1 of this post series, that seems like an unusually place to put your hand on a friend and neither Sammy nor Yaz do that with anyone else in the group), when Sammy is listing her favorite people in the group as she and Kenji are hanging out in their gondola she mentions Yaz first while in Yaz's own gondola she is visibly longing to be over with Sammy (especially seeing how much fun Sammy and Kenji are having pushing on the sides of the gondola) instead of having to face Brooklyn and the fact that they are not close at all, just like when Sammy left Yaz with Kenji this feels almost like a deliberate move on Sammy’s part to get Yaz out of her comfort zone and forming closer bonds with the others (though I think it’s also an excuse for Sammy to spend some quality time with Kenji who definitely seems like he’s become a brother figure) We also get this moment a jealousy in which Yaz seems a little salty that Sammy is hanging out with Kenji (though on the surface it is about how they are messing around instead of helping, Yaz’s comment is definitely tinged with jealousy), this feels very much like the reaction of someone who has romantic feelings but doesn’t have the experience to properly interpret them and who has not been able to

talk about them or put a name to them, she clearly wants a closer relationship with Sammy but Yaz is unable to thoroughly define the relationship she wants which leaves her feeling like her needs aren’t being met in situations like this, in that sense she has fallen into a bit more of an insecure attachment again, she feels threatened by Sammy’s other friendships because she and Sammy haven’t differentiated their relationship from that of the friendships they have with the others I would just like to point out the lingering hug they share in which Yaz is clearly nuzzling Sammy’s neck and the fact that Yaz goes over to stand next to Sammy when she moves to hug Brooklyn, there’s no heterosexual explanation for that, or the way Yaz holds and comforts Sammy after pulling away from that dinosaur (if you look closely you can see Yaz rubbing Sammy’s arm with her thumb) And the scene where Yaz explains that Bumpy likes her so much because she keeps snacks in her pockets and then shares some of the snacks so Sammy can feed her too? Absolutely precious, we love to see Yaz being so soft with Sammy, like the way she calls out to her when part of the group goes to search Kenji’s dad’s penthouse for gas to put in the boat, or the way Yaz checks on Sammy while Ben’s siphoning gas from the limos in the penthouse’s garage, it’s clear here that Yaz also wants Sammy to be able to rely on her sometimes, to confide in her, Yaz doesn’t have time to respond in that moment because of yet another dinosaur attack (I also think that she was having a hard time responding because on some level Yaz is also afraid to go home) but the fact that she asked in the first place shows a lot of character and relationship growth, she even goes to check on Sammy later once they’re back on the boat, Sammy does the talking then and uses Yaz more as a sounding board but the gentle smile Yaz gives when Sammy walks away with the solution to her problem is absolutely priceless

#jwcc #yasammy #longpost

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just-dreaming-marvel · 4 years ago

Text

Out Of Time ~ 117

MASTERLIST

< previous chapter

Word Count: 2,300ish

Summary: No summary...... I just hope this chapter makes sense.... it’s a lot of jumping....

“Daisy!” Y/N shouted, Coulson and the others running up behind her. “Daisy!”

“Where did she go?” Coulson asked.

“I don’t…” Black spots filled Y/N’s vision. “I don’t know… Coulson, I…” She reached out to him. “Something’s…” then she fainted.

Y/N woke up on the floor, somewhere. Blinking, long and hard, she pushed herself up and looked around.

“What the…” she muttered. Y/N quickly realized she was in the Mirror Dimension. “What am I doing back here?” She pushed herself up to the standing position, seeing the Ancient One on the other side. “What is going on?”

“The Stones have asked that I finish your training, since I don’t have much longer,” the Ancient One responded.

“What do you mean by ‘don’t have much longer’?”

“My time is almost up. Which means the time you will be needed will soon follow.”

“I’m not ready. I just… I’m not ready.”

“I’m sorry, Miss Rogers. But you don’t have a choice.”

~~~

SIX MONTHS LATER…

May was waiting for the Zephyr’s ramp to lower, Mack and Coulson walking down it.

“How long has it been?” She asked.

“Six weeks in the air,” Coulson answered. “Only the quinjet touched down.”

“Is that a record for Zephyr One?”

“It is. It was supposed to be even longer. You know who called us in?”

“I do.” She handed them a tablet before leading them away.

“You? Okay. Now I know something’s up. Is it Y/N? Has anything changed?”

“Simmons is carefully monitoring her. We’re lucky that General Talbot’s on our side to keep her here cause the Director is itching to hand her over as a sign of good faith to the government.”

“No news though?” Mack wondered.

“We did see good signs yesterday and this morning. But we’ve seen good signs before.”

“She’s going to wake up soon,” Coulson said with such confidence. “I know it.”

~~~

SIX MONTHS AGO…

“I didn’t have time to explain the nature of the Reality Stone before you needed to use it,” the Ancient One stated. “You are able to change the reality of what people see and what’s been done.”

“Like I did with those agents,” Y/N said.

“Exactly.”

“Which Stone is next, then?”

“We’re not moving onto the next Stone until you’ve mastered the powers you have. It is important that you have mastered them so that you can be at your full strength when the time comes.”

“What if I don’t want to? What if I don’t want to fight? I want to be done fighting…. Fighting has cost me everything… the life I once had, in multiple ways.”

“You weren’t meant to live out life in the 40’s. You were meant to be here and now.”

“I don’t care… I don’t want this anymore.”

“Then I can wait. I still have enough time. And I can keep you here until you’ve decided to come to your senses.”

“You can’t be serious. You can’t keep me here!”

“Oh, but I can.” Then she disappeared, leaving Y/N alone in the Mirror Dimension.

“Oh, come on! Let me go!”

~~~

FOUR MONTHS AGO…

“Are you ready yet?” The Ancient One asked, appearing out of no where.

“You can’t just keep me in here!” Y/N shouted. “I’m not a prisoner!”

“I will keep you in here as long as it takes.”

“Ugh!! How long have I even been in here?!”

“Two months.”

“Two months?! How am I not dead?”

“Your friends, and the Stones, are keeping your body safe. You will be able to return to it, once you have completed the training.”

“I told you, I don’t want this.” Y/N shook her head. “I never wanted this. Can’t the Stones just pick someone else?”

“I’m afraid that’s not how this works.” The Ancient One watched as Y/N paced. “I would have thought that this time alone would be helpful to you.”

“Yeah? In what why?”

“To be able to grieve and morn about the loss of your friends, the life you wished you had, and your child… To be able to forgive yourself and those around you.”

“I have forgiven Steve for fighting Tony. And Tony for fighting Steve. I have forgiven Bucky for killing Howard. I have forgiven them of all their faults, because it wasn’t all theirs… it was mine… I will never be able to forgive myself. I could have tried harder to keep my family from being torn apart, to keep my baby alive! So… there’s no need to forgive everyone else. It’s already done… the only person I will never be able to forgive is myself.”

~~~

NOW…

“Hey, Y/N,” Coulson greeted, stopping by the cell Y/N was being kept in for safe keeping. She was hooked up to many monitors and tubes. “Sorry it’s been so long. The Director’s been keeping me busy.” He chuckled sadly to him as he sat down on a chair beside her bed. “I can only imagine how mad you’re going to be when you find out I stepped down… I just… Between you and Daisy. I couldn’t keep my focus…”

He sighed. “I’m headed to Los Angeles. Trying to hunt her down… she’s a ghost, Y/N. She slips through our fingers every time. I wish… Oh, how I wish things were back to the way they were before. I don’t necessarily know how far I want to go, but just before… Stark keeps contacting me, asking me if I’ve seen or heard anything. I think he knows I’m lying. But I think he understands it’s to protect you.”

“I’m sorry that I can’t spend more time with you. But I do have to go. They… the Director had a shoot to kill order placed on Daisy. I have to go help her some how.” He leaned over, placing a kiss on her forehead. “Please, wake up soon. I don’t know how much longer I can see you like this.”

~~~

TWO MONTHS AGO…

“I’m ready,” Y/N huffed. “Let’s just get this over with… I’ve seen what the Stones can do. I understand how important it is to stop them, if what I’ve seen will happen… I’ll train, I’ll master the powers they want me to. But them I’m out of here.”

“Understood,” the Ancient One responded with a nod. “First, let’s practice what you’ve learned with the Mind, Space, and Reality Stones.”

Y/N and the Ancient One worked to improve her current knowledge of the powers. Especially where it came to losing her energy. It took two weeks before the Ancient One believed she was ready to learn more.

“The Time Stone,” the Ancient One began, showing the Stone that was kept around her neck, “with it you will be able to change time. Not drastically. But up to a few minutes.”

“Like, rewind?” Y/N questioned.

“Exactly. You can focus is it on large areas or just a single object.” She took out an apple and took a few bites of it. She held it out. “Now, try it with this. Bring it back to it’s original state.”

With a deep breath, Y/N held out her hand and focused on the object. Slowly, the bites began to fill back in until the apple was whole again.

“Very good,” the Ancient One praised. “Now bring it back to where it was when I challenged you.”

Y/N nodded before focusing again on the apple. The bites that had disappeared, appeared again.

“Good,” the Ancient One said. “Again.”

The Time Stone took a week to master. It was easier for Y/N since it was with her. The next Stone was the Power Stone.

“This Stone is one of the most destructive forces in the universe,” the Ancient One explained. “If you tried hard enough, you could destroy whole planets.”

“Okay… I don’t think I like that…” Y/N shook her head slightly.

“Channeling it will also enhances your strength and durability during a fight.”

The Ancient One and Y/N fought in order to test her strength and durability. Y/N wished she had been taught to channel that Stone earlier, it would have been of great help. Y/N practiced destroying smaller things, like weapons. The power would come out of her hands in the form of purple beams. She worked on this one for weeks, until the Ancient One finally decided she was ready for the last Stone. The Soul Stone.

“The Soul Stone is the most hidden and unknown out of all the Stones,” the Ancient One stated. “Very few know it’s location, or the powers it possesses. I don’t even know it’s location, but I do know the price it requires to retrieve it.”

“And that is?”

“A soul for a soul… This Stone will allow you to conjure the spiritual representation of those who are dead.”

“What?”

“And it will be them. Not the Stone fooling you.”

“Like… I could see my parents? An-and Howard? And… and my baby?”

“Yes.”

Tears sprung in Y/N’s eyes. “How? How do I do it?”

“This is the one Stone I cannot help you learn how to use. You must learn it yourself.”

“No.” Y/N shook her head. “You must know. Please.”

“I’m sorry… your training is done. It is now time for you to go.”

“No! Please. Just tell me!”

“I have told you everything I know. It is now up to you to find the answers you seek. And the peace you long for.”

“No, wait. Please don’t—“

~~~

PRESENT DAY REALITY…

“Here’s the Mapping-Action Eyewear you requested,” Simmons said to May, carrying a tablet and a container towards her in the training room. “Should help your team in case of a blind takedown.”

“Great,” May replied, taking the container. “Thanks.”

“I need you to sign for it.” Simmons held out the tablet.

May didn’t look pleased. “I don’t get the new color-coded security-level rainbow of… What’s it called?”

“The Spectrum of Security.”

“Why do I, level red, have to go through you, level orange, to request hardware? Shouldn’t red be higher than orange?”

“Well, orange encompasses both red and yellow, so… It’s hard to explain, but the Director didn’t want to use numbers because he didn’t want any team member to feel less than.”

May looked down at the tablet, filling it out. “Well, you do have a higher clearance than me.”

“Only in most instances.”

Not impressed, May handed the tablet back over. “I feel less than.”

Simmons took the tablet as May started to walk away, she followed. “Hey, we just had a report come in. A death in a hospital in Los Angeles.” May turned around. “Suspicious circumstances. Suspect is an Asian female.”

“You think it might be Daisy.”

“I’m going to look into it. I just wondered if you’d heard anything from your law enforcement contacts?”

“I’m mostly in the dark these days. Why don’t you ask the Director? Since you’re one of the few people allowed or willing to do that.”

“May—“ Simmons was halted by an alarm going off on her phone. Looking down, her eyes widened. “It’s Y/N.”

May and Simmons ran down to the cell, where Y/N’s monitors were going crazy. As they grew closer, they noticed tears slipping down her face.

“No…” Y/N mumbled. “Please… wait… don’t go!”

“What’s happening?” May asked.

“I think she’s waking up,” Simmons said. “Y/N. Y/N, can you hear me?”

“I’m calling Coulson.” May stepped out of the room.

“I was just alerted to the situation,” a man in a suit came in. “How can I help?”

“Director,” Simmons greeted. “There’s nothing I can think of.”

“No… please…” Y/N mumbled. She suddenly shot up, eyes wide and gasping for air.

“Y/N, Y/N,” Simmons called, trying to get her to calm.

“Agent Rogers,” the new Director greeted. “I need you to calm down.”

Y/N met Simmons eyes before looking at the stranger in the room. “Who the hell are you?” She breathily asked.

“I’m Jeffrey Mace, the new Director of SHIELD. I’m here to help you and transition you to life with the Sokovia Accords.”

“The… the Accords? Where’s Coulson?” Y/N looked around. “How long have I been out of it?”

“Six months,” Simmons answered.

“S-six months?” Y/N looked to Simmons, who nodded. “And… and you thought that I was going to wake up and just be okay with signing the Accords?” She looked at the new Director.

“You don’t have a choice,” the Director stated. “It’s the law—“

Y/N interrupted with a chuckle. “That’s where you’re wrong… There’s always a choice. Plus… what re you going to do to stop me from leaving and not signing?”

“You should be familiar with this room, Agent Rogers. Your powers cannot be used in this room.”

“I am not an Inhuman. My powers come from other sources. This room has never been able to stop me. Did they not tell you that?”

“Y/N,” Simmons warned. “Just listen, hear him out.”

“No. If Coulson isn’t the Director anymore, then I don’t want to be a part of SHIELD… I’m sorry Jemma. Tell the others good bye for me.”

“Y/N— No!” May shouted, coming back into the room as Y/N opened a portal underneath herself and fell through it. “Damn it!”

“I thought you said this room stops powers?” The Director questioned Simmons.

“We never said whose powers,” Simmons answered.

“You just assumed it would work on her,” May added.

“I’ll let General Talbot know she’s gone,” the Director stated. “He’ll get the government searching for her as well.”

next chapter >

NOTES: from now on the taglist when be added by a reblog. I will reblog it using my second account, @just-dreaming-marvel-2. Just so that my main page doesn’t get too cluttered.

If you want to be added to the tag list, please dm me or send in an ask.

#agents of shield #Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.#agents of shield x reader #aos x reader #the avengers x reader #avengers x reader #the infinity stones #Phil Coulson x Reader #the ancient one #marvel imagine #marvel imagines

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boop-le-snoot · 4 years ago

Text

skin starving

tony stark x f!reader fluff. no warnings, just a few f-bombs. touch starved tony’s third person pov. words: 2,5k. no beta because i just really needed to get this off my chest.

recommended music to go with the story: two feet - 'love is a bitch' & 'quick musical doodles'. Or any lo-fi hip-hop radio really.

It started as an itch. At first, a small but bothersome thing, that kept him up at night, steering the already unreasonable hours of wakefulness into dangerous territory. The cold of his bed was unappealing and more often than not, he’d started passing out on the flat surfaces nearest to him: workshop, lab, common room couch, the lazy boy in Bruce’s apartment.

The team noticed, of course, they weren’t blind. They all had been on edge the first few months after Pepper left him. They expected him to act out, lock himself up in his lab or go back to his old habits of boozing and bringing home a different girl every night. And he had tried that, once or twice, but airheaded twenty-somethings weren’t appealing anymore. Most of the time their ass kissing and blatantly flattery annoyed him further into self-loathing abyss. He simply couldn’t step up to be the kind of man they described him to be - it seemed as if every woman on planet Earth had a whole list of expectations he specifically could not meet.

With Thor off planet, not one remaining person on the team was particularly touchy-feely. And that was the thing with Tony Stark: as an engineer, as a mechanic, he made his way through the world hands-first, every approach he had was hands-on. During late nights and early mornings, he laid in bed, sleepless and dreamless, desperately refusing to admit his own touch starvation.

Whenever Rogers threw an arm around his shoulders during a particularly successful team bonding activity, it took every ounce of willpower Tony had to not lean into it and purr like a cat. He hadn’t truly forgiven Steve for his cold, cruel words of criticism shortly after Pepper’s departing. He wasn’t going to chummy up to a man who thought him selfish, opportunistic and self-absorbed.

Tony became irritable and withdrawn. He simultaneously craved and avoided even the casual, friendlier attention his teammates gave him on a daily basis. His usual snark became that much more biting, having caused several people to storm out of team meetings.

On a cold autumn morning, Tony had found his way at the tower’s Starbucks on the employee floor. He had squeezed a generous five hours of restless sleep and he was sick of the plain black coffee in his kitchen. A spontaneous desire for something sweet and creamy and caffeinated led him to the place in line at the cafeteria, only a few early birds ahead of him.

Tony’s brain was hazy as it had been past few weeks, dull from the lack of rest and the hyperfixation of his own skin feeling alien to him. For once, he wasn’t typing away on his StarkPhone as he usually did to avoid being bothered; Tony stared straight ahead, unseeing, nothing but white noise in his usually racing brain.

Two women stood in front of him and he couldn’t help but overhear a part of their conversation.

“… Are you really horny or just lonely or touch-starved, though? I mean, Tinder? It’s not really your style.”

“Eh, I dunno. Probably the second but it’s not like men go on Tinder to find a cuddle buddy.”

“Well, maybe? I’ve heard about arrangements like that.”

“No offense, babe, but it’s probably kids in their early twenties. Those gen-z’s, babe, are weird. I’m not really up to date on all of that.”

The topic of the conversation was what piqued Tony’s interest; the world liked rubbing salt into his wounds and hysterically laugh at his misfortune. Bleary-eyed, he briefly scanned the two women: both appeared to be interns or junior techs in his company, evident by the purple employee badges hanging from their bags.

“So what are you going to do?” One woman asked the other as their turn to order took Tony one step closer to obtaining his desired caffeine.

“Unless someone normal magically appears with an offer of no-strings-attached, good ole’ snuggle fest, I guess I’m getting dicked down on Saturday,” The other replied with a teasing tone. The lack of excitement in the last part of the sentence was obvious.

“Gross,” The first one shook her head and hurriedly rattled off her order to the barista who looked about as disgruntled as Tony felt.

Hours and three coffees later, Tony’s overactive brain was still stuck on that woman from the cafeteria. Her back, her purse stuffed full of colorful manila folders, her neatly gathered hair - Tony Stark had nearly perfect memory and he remembered every single detail despite his brain fog. Objectively, she was attractive, no more no less than a different dozen of women he’d seen at any point in his life before. So why was he hung up on her?

It didn’t take him a long time to find her file, faster than he’d liked to admit. Manually sorting through hundreds of interns, lab technicians and various second-tier employees wasn’t exactly considered productive but with Pepper and her nagging out of the picture, Tony could afford to slack off a little bit.

So he found her name and her e-mail address, skimmed over her performance report with satisfaction, finding her to be a busy bee in the 90-th percentile. Her superiors considered her trustworthy, hard-working and communicative, all good traits.

Pepper’s absence meant he’d have no one to cover his ass should he get slapped with a harassment suit; however, he was the Tony Stark after all. He had more money that he’d cared to count and an army of lawyers at his disposal 24/7.

Amidst the jumbled mess of wires, circuit boards, tablets, empty coffee cups and the occasional piece of paper, Tony typed up an e-mail to the woman sharing his… Condition.

“I heard you and your friend talking at Starbucks. I could use a cuddle buddy. Wine and Netflix at my place? What’s your takeout preference?”

No. That came off way too creepy, like he was some kind of a dirty eavesdropper.

He contemplated some more, typing up and erasing multiple e-mails with various proposals: his penthouse, her place, a three Michelin star restaurant, a walk in the park. Almost all of it screamed ‘date’, like he’d drag her off to bed the very moment an opportunity wouldn’t present itself. It wasn’t so: Tony Stark, the playboy genius, had his dick firmly tucked into his pants. The thought of fucking her crossed his mind only briefly, quickly being chased away by the thought of her fingers running through his hair. Her warm, soft body in his arms. Just laying on his couch, eyes closed, reveling in each other’s arms.

Tony hit send on the least obnoxious option. He baited his breath, clicking his fingers in anticipation as the message showed itself to having been delivered.

“Mary, is this you trying to be funny? Stark is going to fire you if he finds out you’re impersonating him to stop your friend from going on a questionable date. Grow up.” Came the very prompt reply, ending with a short string of angry emojis. Tony could totally trust a person who used emojis unironically and generously.

“For the record, I wouldn’t be mad if somebody pretended to be me for the sake of saving their cute friend from a creep. The problem would be making it look credible.” Tony typed up the answer without thinking, quickly snapping a picture of himself holding the Starbucks cup with his name written on it, throwing his usual sloppy peace sign. He attached it to the email and hit send.

“WTF” Came the reply not a minute afterwards. He let it sink in, giving the woman some time to gather her wits. She did not disappoint. “Okay, even if we pretend this is real - which I doubt - what’s in it for you? If you heard our conversation, you surely know my stance on the matter.”

“I’m always glad to prove you wrong. I’m a genius - comes with the territory.” Tony simply couldn’t resist adding a generous dose of snark. “You’re welcome to meet me after clocking out. Use the private elevator, my AI will beam you up.”

The reply took a considerably long amount of time, seeing as previously, she typed back rather quickly. “Please don’t be a creepy rapist, Scotty. Fingers crossed.” Tony managed to almost break his stylus twice. His hands shook, and he had to tell himself to breathe - still, he laughed at the clever way she replied.

Several more hours later, during which Tony had nearly paced a hole through various floors on the residential side of the tower, he took a quick shower, dressed in a flattering but comfortable designer sweatpants and polo combo and made himself at home on the obscenely large living room sofa on his own, private penthouse floor.

He was up and running towards the elevator when Friday’s voice notified him of the woman entering the elevator on the employee floor. Tony tousled his hair, adjusted his glasses, fiddled with the drawstring of his pants.

The woman was wearing casual office wear, pants and a loose blouse, a lab coat loosely draped over her arm and her purse hanging off the shoulder on a thin strap. Her hair was loose now, a little frizzy as if she continuously ran her hands through it. Tony quietly rejoiced at not being the only nervous one.

Clever eyes scanned the room with unhurried interest before finally landing on him. “Not too shabby, if I say so myself,” The corners of her mouth tilted in an attempt at a smile, it was obvious she was studying him.

“Thanks, I try my best,” Tony smirked. Humble he was not. “So, how do you want to do this?”

“I see a comfortable couch,” She looked to be grateful for being given the opportunity to lead this interaction. “Let’s park our behinds on it, bicker for ten minutes about a movie choice and settle on one none of us really like. Then we can tell each other our no-no zones and, well, yeah,” She started out confidently. Probably practiced in the elevator. But towards the end, her shyness took over.

For Tony, it was kind of cute. A nice change from suck-ups that flocked him at every social gathering in hopes of getting something out of him. The woman that had tossed her bag carelessly on the far end of the couch and untucked her blouse looked and felt like the exact opposite of those people. She looked willing to give.

Tony sat next to her, keeping a couple of inches of free space between them. “Food preferences? Food allergies?” He asked, tapping the food delivery application.

“Nope, and I will eat just about anything.” He felt more than saw her side-eyeing him. Both of them were jittery. So uncharacteristic for Tony, to be blushing and stammering like a high school boy. Sex was easy, but intimacy? Complex. It was addictive and eventually, painful.

Movie decisions were surprisingly easy and she said so. They settled on a Tarantino classic, an old flick neither of them had watched in a long time. As the discussion progressed, Tony used his wits to find out more about her without making it seem like an interrogation. He had run a background check on the woman and her family but those only went that far, besides, it was a great opportunity to practice the tips Natasha had shared with him at one point or another. Being friends with spies had it’s perks.

They ate their food until their bellies were full. A comfortable, relaxing stupor, being warm from the inside out.

Tony noticed when the woman spoke, she spoke with her hands. She had caught herself grasping his forearm multiple times when they’d got more passionate about their discussion. And what Tony loved the most was that she refused to apologize. He saw a kindred soul in the woman; quiet until something struck her fancy. Then, she became a whirlwind of ideas and opinions.

In no time, it became a natural action to extend his arm and wrap it around her shoulders, reclining backwards. There was little grace in laying belly-up like a dead fish but the woman didn’t seem to mind. Watching him out of the corner of her eye, she laid down sideways, throwing a leg over one of his own.

Her palm traced the outline of his arc reactor when something on the screen caught her in a moment of intense interest. Tony preferred to avoid the cursed thing - scars around it definitely did not do any favour to his aging, marked body - but he found himself exhaling the tension when it was obvious the woman really did not care. An occasional quiet hum of satisfaction was the only noise that came from her: he noticed the sound escaped her lips every time his thumb began fiddling with the sleeve of her blouse and rubbed against her arm.

He was quite content. It was warm, he was surrounded by so much warmth.

The hug was mutual when she left home, both of them comfortable with the gesture for people who had met in a rather unconventional way.

She started coming over a couple of times a week, a quiet evening of the best takeout in NYC and (mostly) interesting movies. A solace, always a single e-mail away.

Tony saw her in the cafeteria once or twice; he appreciated the brief, tiny secretive grin she gave him out of her friend’s eyesight. She never approached him. He was grateful for that. He didn’t want to deal with all the drama and all the fuss surrounding incidents between him and his employees. It was nobody’s business what any of them did after clocking out - and him and his cuddle buddy, they weren’t even fucking, for Thor’s sake.

Maybe they would get there someday. Or maybe they won’t. It was only now for Tony. The rare free Saturday night he had, he truly took a vacation from all the bullshit and lured her in with promises of very expensive wine, her favourite New York style pizza and the willingness to entertain watching a few of those funny YouTube videos she liked.

They did watch them and Tony didn’t mind. He stepped over the irrational fear and the initial discomfort and curled up around her, hiding his face in the soft cotton of her worn hoodie, his own breath tickling his face in warm puffs. The hand running through his hair was tender like it never was with Pepper - his ex was far too preoccupied to baby her grown-up boyfriend. But the woman moulded to his body like an extension of himself was happy to do so. Tony’s hair was longer now and it glided perfectly along the woman’s palms.

His heart was steady, thumping in his ears, overshadowing the noises coming from the TV. He exhaled and felt her other hand begin tracing circles on his back, as if she saw the stress and the bitterness leave his body with every caress, every brush of their bodies. Maybe she did?

He held onto her, held her back like she’d held him. Safekeeping the warmth inside of him. Guarding his peace.

#tony stark x reader #tony stark x y/n #tony stark fluff #tony stark feels #bun writes #bun writes: drabbles

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cinderella1181 · 4 years ago

Text

James Dean Daydream - Henry Cavill/OFC Smut

TITLE: James Dean Daydream

CHAPTER NUMBER: 1/1

AUTHOR: Cinderella1181

WHICH Henry/CHARACTER: Henry Cavill/ Alli Sharp

GENRE: Romance/Comedy

FIC SUMMARY: Alli Sharp shows up to work and does not expect to see her ex there. The ex who went away one day, and practically the next was in a relationship with the blond tv actress. No goodbye, nothing. If Henry Cavill expects to get back in her good graces, he has a lot of work to do.

RATING: M (sex, language)

WARNINGS: Sexy sexy time.

AUTHORS NOTES: Ya’ll don’t even know, this here has been a struggle. But, it is done, and it is just the right amount of smutty and story telling!! Big thanks to @ladyaudiophile for beta-ing this for me! I appreciate her!

Taglist: @losille2000, @prizedham , @demivampirew, @iloveyouyen @sobeautifullyobsessed @i-am-an-invisible-ghost

Alli looked at the call sheet for the photo shoot, it was a lot of people she had worked with before. She scanned down to the end of the list and there was a name there she had hoped to never see again. Henry Cavill. She closed her eyes. This was going to be the most difficult photo shoot that she had ever been on, she could just feel it in her bones. She moved into the make up tent.

“Alli Bear!” Thomas said once he saw her. “Girl, thank god you are here, I thought I was going to have to deal with all these skinnies all day. Good to see they got some roundness around here.”

Alli laughed. “Nope, Carly and Jessa are on their way too. Thick sisters represent.” She snapped.

“Girl yes!” He snapped with her. “Let's get you glammed up fam.” He leaned in and kissed her as she sat in his chair. “Tell me everything about what you have been doing in the weeks since I have seen you.” “You know.. Trying to take down the fashion industry one show at a time. I am actually going to London next week to be on the second season of Heidi and Tim’s show.” She grinned. “I am one of their plus models in the pool. It’s exciting.”

He grinned. “Girl you better slay that runway.”

“You know it.” She laughed.

The door of the trailer opened and closed. They both looked up and there he stood. He smiled, that megawatt smile of his and met her eyes. “Alli.” He said. Her name sounded like a prayer on his lips.

“Hen.” she replied, “It’s good to see you.”

“Yeah you too. Thomas, nice to see you again. I can go and come back later if that’s easier for you.”

“Boy sit down. Alli was just telling me about her fabulous year coming up.” He said. Alli turned his head and shot daggers at him. “Seems she is going to be in your part of the world.”

Henry sat in the chair next to her. “Yeah?”

She turned and looked at him. “Yeah, I am going to be in London for about six weeks,” she said quietly.

Henry’s blue eyes lit up. “Yeah?” He grinned. “I’d love to see you while you're there.”

Alli looked at him. “I am going to be working,” she said quietly.

“She’s gonna have time. Her number hasn’t changed.” Thomas said. “You should get a hold of her.”

“I think I will Thomas. I’ll wear her down to at least get drinks with me.” Henry grinned.

Alli rolled her eyes. “We will try and plan something, but if it doesn’t happen then it doesn’t happen.” She said.

Henry threw his hands up. “You got it.”

***

Henry stood off to the side looking at the various groupings of people who were taking photos together for this ad campaign. He tried to not stare, but she was there, and she was stunning. He had made it so the two of them would have to work together later in the day. For now he was content on watching her with the other models.

The photographer looked at the camera and smiled. “Okay ladies. Get in your next outfits. Henry, you're up.”

He smiled and headed towards the set. He paused as he passed Alli. “Can’t wait to see what you're going to do next.”

She looked at him and raised her eyebrow, saying nothing and heading to the dressing room. He grinned after her.

***

“Alli, Jameson needs you back on set,” the photographer's assistant said.

Alli looked at her and nodded. “In this outfit?” she asked. The assistant didn’t even answer. Alli sighed and went over to the set area. Henry was standing there, his arms across his massive chest.

Jameson smiled. “You look good Alli. Go head over by Henry.” He smiled.

Alli smiled and nodded. Henry didn’t even hesitate and wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her in to him, smiling down at her. “You look gorgeous.” He said, moving them just slightly as they worked through the pictures.

“You planned this didn’t you?” She asked.

“Maybe. But, these pictures are really going to help your career too. I am kinda a big deal.” He turned her so she was pressed against him.

“And still so damned humble.” She laughed, as his strong arm ran around her stomach. “It’s been nice seeing you today Hen.” She closed her eyes as he dropped his head to her neck. “I mean it. I am glad to see you doing well.”

“You still won’t forgive me?” He asked softly as he leaned her back.

“For basically having a fake romance and breaking my heart, yeah, that’s kinda hard to get over.” She said quietly.

He shifted them a little. Jameson had stopped barking orders and was just letting them move as they wanted too, she could only imagine the pictures he was getting, but she couldn’t even focus on them right now. Her focus was on Henry and his hands on her face. He looked down into her stormy grey green eyes. “I’m sorry. I didn’t want to do it. But, by the time I could get those words out it had been decided for me.”

She shrugged a little. They ended up with her head on his chest. She closed her eyes, she could feel his head rest on hers. “Forgiven.” She said quietly. “I understand I’m very much not the kind of girl your directors and publicists want to have you connected to.”

He moved and wrapped her up in his arms and kissed her soundly when she said that. He let his tongue probe into her mouth, fighting her for dominance. She melted into the kiss, into his arms. Suddenly the fact there was a room full of people did not even matter. All that mattered was that this beautiful man was kissing her.

He pulled away from the kiss and looked down at her. “Fuck them. I have wanted you for the second I saw you Alli. Give me another chance please?”

She looked at him, as they stood back up. She moved away from him. “I...I have to think.” She stammered and turned and walked off set.

***

Alli was sitting in one of the chairs that were in the dressing room. She was finishing tying on her trainers and stood up to leave. She couldn’t make her escape from this place soon enough. She just wanted to get as far away from this place as she possibly could. She stepped out of the room, directly into the broad chest of Henry. She looked up at him. “My god, you don’t stop do you?”

“You liked my tenacity at one time.” He smiled at her. “Alli, come have dinner with me at my hotel. Please?”

“Hen.” She said quietly.

“Alli, please I am begging you, look I’ll get down on my knees.” He said and did just exactly that. “Please Allicat, please.”

A shiver went down her spine. She hadn’t heard that nickname since he had gone back to Los Angeles. She looked down at him, her hand reaching out, fingers playing in his hair. She sighed deeply. “Get up. That’s fine. Fine, you know you're irritating right?”

“I was aware. Don’t forget, older brothers.” Henry laughed. He stood up and smiled at her. “I’m at the Plaza.”

She shook her head. “Of course you are. No doubletree for you and your posh bottom.” She grinned. “I will be there later, let me go home and get this makeup off and get changed. Casual dinner, understood, casual.” She started to walk away.

He put his hands up in the air. “Casual is your request, it will be.” He smiled after her.

“And in the restaurant, not in your hotel room.” She stopped, turning and wagging her finger at him. “I am serious. No hotel room, no tight shirts, nothing, Do you hear me? You have to wear pants!”

Henry laughed a little. “Fine, fine, nothing fun, got it.” He said. “Go get ready. I will see you at seven.”

She nodded. “Seven.”

***

Alli walked into her apartment and began to strip off, heading into the bathroom and turning on the hot water in the shower and closing the curtain. She tossed clothes into the bin and stood there in her room looking at the mess it was. She shook her head. She was going to have to do laundry before she left for London. She went over to her closet and pulled out her most form flattering jeans, sparkly tank top, and cardigan that was very flattering.

She headed into the shower and washed up. She was having the age old crisis of does she shave to her knees, or everything. She sighed and decided to get the whole kit and caboodle, but she was not going to be wearing sexy underwear. No, it was going to be utilitarian and just tastefull. She contended that he had lost the privilege to see her in fancy underwear the day he didn’t call her to tell her he was breaking up with her.

TMZ was both a great source of entertainment to her, but also the bane of her existence. She could still feel the knife in her heart. The pictures and video of Henry with the blond actress were plastered across her tv. She had been in shock. She texted him and nothing came back to her. He just cut off his communication with her.

She tried to shake that feeling off as she finished getting ready. It was something that was deep in her heart. She had hoped that she would be over it, but she wasn’t sure. She didn’t know if she would ever really be over the heartbreak.

She put the under garments on, finished getting dressed and looked in the mirror and sighed. “Unto the breach once more.” She muttered to herself as she headed out of the room.

***

Henry sat in the hotel bar. He had positioned himself so he could see her come in, but not many people could see him. It was a good place to just sit, relax and people watch. He looked at his watch and sighed. Ten minutes after seven. She always ran a little behind, so he was going to give her a little longer before he gave up.

He reached for his scotch and took a sip, intently looking at the door. He didn’t believe his eyes when she walked in. God she looked beautiful. She came into the bar, seeing him sitting there. She sat down in the chair across from him. “Sorry. Hershey was being dramatic.” She said. “You would think I did nothing with that dog at all. He was at the play place all day, but of course he didn’t want to go home.” She shook her head, reaching for his drink and taking a sip.

He smiled at her. This was what he had missed. Her coming in all in a huff, and just inserting herself into his life. He smiled, and pointed to his glass. “That’s mine.”

She looked at the tumbler in her hand and then at him. She smiled sheepishly. “Sorry.”

“No, no it’s fine.” He said. “I always loved that about you, come in in a rush and would just take over my drink.” He laughed. “I miss that.”

She sighed. “I miss that too.” She said quietly.

He sat forward a bit and looked at her. “I need to say something to you. I have to say these words, or I won’t be able to go on. I have to tell you what happened.”

“Hen..”

“No, please Allicat, I have to.” He sighed. “I went to LA and was ambushed by the team. Someone had gotten pictures of us. I had worked so hard at trying to keep you hidden.I wanted one thing in my life that was just, mine.” He ran his hand over his face and into his hair. “I worked so hard to keep you just for me. I was jealous, I was selfish, and now I know that was wrong. l should have worn you proudly on my arm. I was not ashamed of you at all. I never could be, you, with that body and that smile.”

He took her hand in his. “I loved you, I wanted you. I still want you. I had no choice in the matter then, but now, I do. And screw em. I want you Alli. I want you to be on my arm, I want you to be in my bed. I want you.”

She looked away from him, tears running down her cheeks. “Henry don’t.”

“Alli, you and I fit together like a lock and a key. I want that again. Give me a chance, give me the chance to prove to you that I am serious.” He kissed the back of her hand. “All I am asking for is a chance.I wasn’t in that place in my career then, but I am not. I can choose who I am with.”

“And I am who you choose?” She looked at him.

“A hundred times over and over. Alli, you are the one that got away from me. Let me try. Please?” He asked. “I am just asking for a chance.”

She looked at him, and with the slightest movement, nodded yes.

***

“You mean to tell me that in the last four years, the longest relationship you’ve had is like.. 8 months?” Alli looked at him.

“Yup, all short and sweet.” He replied.

“We dated for almost two and half years.” She said quietly.

He nodded. “I know. I am telling you, you are the one that got away from me.”

Alli sat back in the chair. She crossed her arms. “Wow.” She reached and took a sip of her wine from the glass in front of her. “I can’t believe it.”

“What about you? What was your longest in that time?” Henry asked, as he popped a piece of his dinner into his mouth.

She looked at him. “Fourteen months.” She shrugged. “And then another for about 10 months. That was it.”

He grinned at her, that cheshire cat grin that he had. “Was I the one that got away from you as well?”

Alli shrugged. “I mean, if that makes you feel better about the abysmal relationships that we have had since then, sure.” She smiled a little. “You broke my heart, honestly Hen, broke it in two. I was so shattered. Here was this man who I had been carefully dating, and hiding with, and enjoying every second of our quiet bliss, and then you went and did that. I just. I don’t know, I was shattered, and then she was skinny and blond…”

“Yeah, I didn’t choose her. If that had been a choice I would have just come back to New York to get you and bring you out. It was a showmance. My god, we didn’t even have sex. Like, she was just doing a job It was sad. The whole time I was like, I should have fought a little harder. I was stupid Alli, honestly. I should have fought for us.”

She nodded. “I agree.” She smiled. “Wait, you mean to tell me that she never once made a pass at you?”

“Nope.”

“Was she blind?” Alli inquired. “I mean seriously. You're beautiful.”

She watched him smile. “You still think I am handsome.”

She rolled her eyes. She waved to the male waiter that was walking by. “Question, do you think he is handsome? Like, not in a sexual way, but, just, in a specimen kind of way.”

He looked at Henry and nodded. “Honestly he’s kinda goals.”

Alli grinned. “Thank you.” She laughed. “You’re handsome to everyone buddy. Hate to break it to you.”

“Yeah but you think I’m beautiful, and probably sexy, you just don’t want to say it.” Henry grinned at her.

She shook her head. “You're not going to win me over that easily. Nice try buddy.” Alli grinned at him. She sat there quietly for a second. “I have missed this, this easiness with you.” She sighed. “I always enjoyed the fact that we could either sit in silence in the room together or we could be talking a mile a minute, but it was just nice, the two of us.” He reached out and took her hand. She watched as he kissed the back of it. “You were by far the best thing in my life. I miss us. I miss that too. I miss sitting on my computer gaming and you reading a book, and just glancing up and seeing you smile at something in your book. I always loved that.” He smiled a little.

She grinned at him. “I’d sit and watch you, for hours playing with your head set on. You’d get so excited, it is always fun to see.” She smiled.

He sighed. “Why did I let this happen to us? You know by this time, we would have been married at least three years.” Henry looked at her. “I had the ring all ready to go.”

Alli looked away. “Don’t say that. Please don’t say words like that. I can’t take it.”

Henry looked away from her. He was quiet for a moment before speaking again. He sighed. “I would have married you in a heartbeat. I would have been yours, we would have had a beautiful wedding and you and I would have a kid or two besides Kal.” He looked at her. “We can still have that now. You and I can still make this work Alli.” He said quietly. “You and I can be together.”

She looked at him and sighed. “I don’t know if I can do it.” She responded.

“All I am asking for is a chance. Please, A chance for you to see that I am serious. Can I please have that?” Henry asked.

She looked at him. “I...I need to use the restroom. I will be back. I’m not running away, I just...I need a moment.” She stood up. “Here… hold my purse.”

He smiled. “Collateral. I like it.” He nodded. “Take your time and think.”

Alli stood and walked to the bathroom, digesting everything that she had just heard. She went in, thankful that there was a little seating area in it. She sat on the edge of the armchair and looked at her hands. He loved her, he had never wanted to cheat on her. He admitted it was wrong, but could she really believe him.

Could the two of them weather the storm? She hoped so. Her body ached being near him. Every ounce of her wanted to be close to him. He was a mega star now and she was coming up in the modeling world. Now would make a lot more sense for them to be a couple than it had been before.

She stood, walking over to the sinks and looked in the mirror. She sighed, she had no idea what she was going to do. The only thing she did know was that she wanted him. They were an excellent couple together. She had to give him another chance. She straightened her cardigan and headed back out there.

Alli had never been one to be exceptionally bold, but she was going to do this. She walked up to him, took his face in both of her hands and kissed him. He still tasted the same, he still felt the same under her lips. She kissed him for a few seconds, finally breaking it and sitting back down in her chair. She looked at him, as he sat there in stunned silence. “Fuck it.. I have wanted to be with you since the day I met you.”

“You mean it?’ Henry asked.

“I do.” Alli replied. “I really do.”

“Well then, let me get the check.” He said waving for the waiter

All that she could do in that moment was chuckle. “Don’t waste time do you?”

“Not when it comes to bedding you. I hope you don’t have anything going on tomorrow, cause you are going to be indisposed.” He replied.

“How is something that is gonna take 15 minutes tops gonna keep me busy all night?” Alli asked.

“Not funny.” He smirked. “Not funny at all.”

***

Alli stood close to Henry in the elevator. His hand engulfed hers and he held onto it for dear life. He wasn’t going to let her go this time. This was the girl that he wanted, the girl that he had dreamed about. This was the one that all of his hopes and dreams rested on. He leaned in and kissed her head. “I am glad you decided to not hold out on your no sex promise.” He said. “I was hoping I could wear you down.”

She laughed at him and shook her head. “You can be very persuasive if you need to be.” She replied.

Henry grinned. “Oh I know I can be.” He laughed a little. Finally the elevator dinged and the doors opened up. He led her out of the elevator, down the hall and stopped at a room that said simply suite next to it. He pulled out his key card, opening the door and holding it for her. “After you my dear.” He said.

He watched as Alli walked into the room. He felt like he was really watching her walk back into his life. That simple act of her crossing the threshold was all he needed. He followed in behind her and shut the door, closing and locking it for the night.

He watched as Alli came in, set her purse down, took off her shoes and went and sat on the small couch in the living room area. She smiled up at him. “Are you coming to sit with me or what?” She asked.

Henry grinned at her and went over and sat down with her. As soon as he was on the couch she was moving towards him, kissing him. He grabbed her tight and held her close to him. He maneuvered her so she was sitting on his lap. Henry let his hands rest on her hips. She sat up, looking down at his face after the broken kiss.

“I have missed your kisses more than I can begin to tell you.” She smiled and leaned down and kissed him again. She sat up once again and took off her cardigan, tossing it aside. Henry looked up at her and grinned. His hands ran up under her shirt and pulled it up to expose her creamy white skin to him. He leaned in and kissed her in the valley between her breasts. “So, about my underclothes…” She started.

“Did you have a Briget Jones moment?” He asked.

Alli laughed. “Yes I did. I promise you, next time, sexy.” She grinned as he pulled her shirt off over her head.

“You could wear a rain coat and welly boots and long pajamas and I would think you were sexy darling.” He smiled at her. He kissed right under her breast. “Anything you have on is sexy I am sure.”

He let her unbutton the shirt he was wearing and her hands instantly went into the hair on his chest. He moaned and she smiled. “I missed this, your fur coat.”

He chuckled. “You're about the only person who has ever missed it.” He shifted so that she could remove the shirt from him completely. “Most of the girls I've dated have just wanted me to shave it or wax it.”

“No! Never. It’s wonderful. It makes you look like a real man.” She leaned in and kissed him. “I love it and I want you to always have it.”

Henry smiled at her. “Deal.”

He ran his hands down the front of her, cupping her breasts as he did. He stopped and looked at her. “What?” She asked.

“Nothing, just, I can’t believe you are here again. I can’t believe that you and I are together in all of this. I have wanted nothing more than to have this moment and here you are. Sitting on my lap, with your shirt off. Pinch me this must be a…..oww son of a …” His hand went to his nipple that had just been tweaked.

Alli laughed from her vantage point above him. “That help you know it’s not a dream?”

Henry pulled a face. “You're so funny. I forgot how much I do not miss this part of your personality.” He wrapped his hands under her thighs. In one swift motion he managed to stand up holding her in his arms. “I am going to make you suffer for that.”

She giggled. “I am greatly looking forward to this form of punishment. I’ve obviously been a very naughty girl.” She kissed all over his face. “I always did like it when you punished me this way.”

He smiled at her and plopped her on the bed. He looked down at her, she was just in her jeans, and her bra. He stood between her legs, leaning over her a little and placing his hand in the center of her chest. “I had forgotten what this sight looked like.” He smiled. “I do however remember how much I love this look.” He let it drag down to the button on her pants. He pulled at it, opening it and unzipping her pants in one smooth move. He could feel her quiver.

It had been too long since they had been this close to each other, but he remembered every fine detail of her, everything that she liked. He grabbed her jeans and her panties all at the same time. He tugged at them and she lifted her hips as he tugged them down her. He saw her sex already glistening with excitement and it caused the partial erection that he had to roar to life.

He divested her of her clothing and knelt before her. He took her leg in his hand and kissed the top of her foot, the inside of her ankle, her calf. He reached her knee and he heard her let out the breath she was holding and take in another. He looked up at her, placing a kiss on her knee and then up every inch of her thigh. He pushed her legs apart, exposing her core to him. He simply blew on the wetness there, sending a shiver all over her body. She watched intently as he ignored the gift he wanted, and treated her other leg to the same treatment that he had given her first leg.

“Henry please.” Alli pleaded with him. “Please, take your time later.”

He shifted himself forward and lifted both of her legs onto his shoulders and pulled her to the end of the bed. “I have to punish you for being naughty.” He smiled. He moved in closer to her core and let his tongue lick at her most sensitive bud. She arched her back and brought her sex closer to his mouth in one movement. He pressed his face between her thighs and began his delicate work manipulating her sex with his tongue.

Henry became focused in his work, and the sounds that he was eliciting from her mouth. He had missed this, the sound of her as she writhed in pleasure. He had to stop soon and fill her or he was going to make this all an embarrassingly short interlude. He moved his mouth away from her and moaned. “I forgot how sweet you tasted.” He continued to hold on to her legs, dropping them over his arms as he stood up. “But I need you Alli, my god, I have never needed anyone as much as I need you now.” He managed to get out.

He dropped his hands to the front of his pants, thanking his lucky stars he had thought to undo his button when he started his work. He unzipped the front of his slacks and tugged his pants down. Once he was free he paused at her entrance. “Are you ready? You still want me?”

Alli nodded. “Oh my stars yes, please Henry.” She managed to get out.

He grinned and pressed himself into her, slowly, inch by inch until he had bottomed out in her. He placed his hands on either side of her, her hips canted up as he had her legs captured. He moaned. “Fuck Alli, fuck.” He pulled his hips out slowly and pressed back into her. He felt her shiver when he did.

That was all he needed before he began to repeat the motion. Over and over he pulled his hips from her and pushed them back in. He had forgotten how good she felt surrounding him, how every inch of her was created in just the way he liked it. No one had ever felt like this, this was the girl who was made for him. Every part of her knew exactly what he craved. He knew that this was not going to be the time that would be slow. He was aware as he pumped his hips in and out of her that this was going to be the time that he didn’t last as long as he could, but he didn’t care. He was going to make her his over and over.

He knew he was getting close to her release. He knew the sound of her excitement as it grew. He shifted a little, letting one of his hands smack at her ass, the resounding crack in the room and her gasp was enough to know that he would soon be met with the onslaught of her orgasm.

He pressed his hips forward just a few times more before he felt her pleasure grab him. The velvet of her walls crashed down on him and pulled him into her deeper. He moaned, throwing his head back as the feeling spurred him on. He grunted, the vice grip around him not letting him move as well as he had wanted.

He felt his own release begin to percolate just beneath the surface. He completed just a few more revolutions of his hips before he felt his heat erupt into her. He tried to keep moving but he ended up stuttering to a stop as he filled her. He stayed connected with her, until he finally found the strength to shift them into the bed and collapsed next to her. He watched as her arm was across her eyes, panting, saying nothing.

She finally moved her head and looked at him. “Damn.”

He laughed a little. “Yes damn.” He replied. “I missed that.”

“So did I.” She said. “A whole lot.”

“Stay the night?” Henry asked.

She nodded, moving to rest her head on his chest. “You have a lot of time to make up for.” She yawned.

“Well I can’t make it all up in one night.” He said.

“No but you can try.” She grinned. “You sure as hell can try.”

#Henry Cavill #henry cavill fanfic #henry cavill fic #henry cavill smut

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redheadedrenagade · 4 years ago

Text

Wicked Game

Chapter 1: When the Lights Went Dim

credit to gamegifsdaily for the beautiful gif.

Here’s the first chapter to Wicked Game, a Joel Miller x Female OC fanfiction. I’ll be honest, I have NO CLUE where this fic is going to go. I don’t anticipate it being super long, and I still haven’t decided if I’m going to go super in depth into the OC’s past. I really just wanted the chance to write something sweet and smutty for our Joel. And Ellie. I love them both so much don’t loOK AT ME

This takes place 2 years after the pair move into Jackson. OC came along halfway through their first year, so the 3 have had 1.5 years of time spent together so far. In this, Ellie has forgiven Joel for his mistakes and continues to have a healthy relationship with him, though it does still very much bother her now and then.

As far as WARNINGS go, this is an 18+ fic, and I fully intend on keeping it that way. Possible triggers may include sexually abusive language, especially in this first chapter, sexual language and situations (aka SMUT Y’ALL), cursing, gore, death, apocalypse horrors and I’m sure a number of other adult themes. So please, please don’t read if you’re underage. I say that with care, not contempt.

That being said, I hope you enjoy what I’ve come up with so far. :) If interested, this is the song that inspired the title of this chapter. I felt like it fit really well.

She had no idea how she’d ended up in this insane situation. Four men with their guns drawn on her, her own gun pointed right at the leader’s forehead as Ellie did as she was asked and stayed behind her. Ellie had no gun on her, just her trusty knife. But they hadn’t thought much of it since Charlotte had her gun, they were hardly out of Jackson to feel true concern. They got complacent. And now, they were in deep shit.

She must actually be afraid if she’s listening. She never listens. God dammit, I have to get her out of this…

“How…how about we make a deal? Hmm? I go with you. Willingly. But you let the girl go,” she says, working hard as hell to keep her voice from quivering as all the possibilities of torture flash across her mind.

“Charlotte…no. NO! You can’t – “

“Quiet, Ellie! I mean it!” she cuts the girl behind her off, her heart breaking at how angry she has to make herself sound so Ellie will hopefully head her suggestion. Charlotte feels Ellie relent as she presses her small body against Charlotte’s back, her forehead coming to rest between her shoulder blades. Charlotte understands the sweet gesture and what it means. She can feel the girl’s anger and love radiating off her. She’s warm, and Charlotte lets herself compartmentalize this nice feeling for another time, when she’ll have to escape inside her own mind just to survive.

I know, honey. I’m sorry. But there’s no other way.

The group of men in front of them snicker and look at each other in a way that makes her stomach twist into a knot.

“Now why in the hell would we do that? You’re both pretty, young things. Especially that one…could be a mighty nice opportunity, trainin’ her to be our little slave,” the leader replies, and she feels her face contort with rage at the sick filth coming out of his mouth.

“We can either all die, right here, right now, or you accept my offer. If not, I’ll put a bullet in your fucking skull, and when one of you shoot me, Ellie will run. Now both of your little fuck-toys are gone. Kinda’ defeats the purpose, don’t you think?”, she hisses at them, her eyes drifting onto each one of them, sizing them up.

Ellie can outrun them. She can do it. I know she can.

Just as she’s about to risk it all and pull the trigger, the man lowers his gun and smirks at her.

“Fine. You’ll just have to care of all of us, then. You think you’re strong, sweetie? Oh, we are gonna’ ruin you,” he says, his dark eyes glittering terribly. Charlotte lets out a long breath she didn’t realize she was holding and gives him one sharp nod, her arm still holding the gun at him.

“Okay. Good. She runs away first, though. Only then do I drop this gun. Then I’m all yours, boys,” she replies, noticing how monotone her voice has become, completely devoid of emotion.

Maybe I’m numb. That’s probably a good thing.

She hears Ellie curse in rage behind her, but before the girl can protest, Charlotte turns her head to the side and lets her eyes find Ellie’s. They are angry, terrified pools of forest green, and her heart clenches hard at how torn she looks.

“It’s okay, Ellie. Go on. It’s okay,” Charlotte whispers to her, giving the girl a smile only reserved for her.

She looks as if she’s about to say something, her mouth parting slightly, but she’s quickly cut off.

“Ellie. We only got one shot at this. Don’t make it all for nothing. Go. Go, Ellie. Now!” she manages to ground out, sparks of agony twisting its way through her veins. Not because she’s scared, but because she knows this is goodbye. Her mind briefly wanders to Joel, picturing his face as he smirks at her and Ellie for doing something weird or obnoxious (which was most of the time). Picturing his dark eyes looking into hers on occasion, which never failed to make her stomach flip flop like a little kid with a crush.

“We’ll come back for you,” Ellie whispers fiercely into her ear, making sure to step to the side and glare acidly at the men, and without another word, the girl turns and starts sprinting away, her form getting smaller and smaller as she distances herself. Not until she’s over the large hill they’d come down does Charlotte sigh in relief, turning her head back to the men.

“Give it five minutes. I’m not stupid, I don’t want you just hunting her down after I give you my gun,” she says matter-of-factly, and the man raises his hands in a passive gesture as he backs up a step and then crosses his arms in wait.

Charlotte hardly registers the conversation a couple of them are having, but she hears enough that she has to physically hold back a shudder of disgust. The time comes and goes in what feels like both seconds and eons, and finally, she slowly lowers her arm and clicks the safety back on, letting the gun fall from her hand into the grass with a soft ‘thump’.

This is actually happening. Shit. But she got away. That’s all that matters. She got away.

“Good girl,” he mocks her in false praise before holding out his hand for hers to take.

She swallows the bile rising in her throat and lets herself remember one last day in the sun with Ellie and Joel. A perfect day, when they were happy, when she’d held Ellie down and tickled her into a laughing fit that made even the unbreakable Joel chuckle and shake his head in amusement. The dinners with Maria and Tommy, in their house which always felt like a haven. The townspeople she’d grown to love like family.

I’ll miss you all so fucking much.

Then, the moment was gone, and all that remained was the hand that would lead her to the end of what her spirit could endure. She takes it and says goodbye to the way things were only hours ago.

══════════════════

Charlotte is jerked awake by the sound of someone’s gruff voice near her, and suddenly, she’s slapped hard across the face. She gasps, blinking furiously while trying to see through the blur of her vision who had hit her. She tries to bring her arms up to protect her face, but she realizes slowly that her wrists and ankles are tied to the chair she’s in. Things come into focus then, the panic of being restrained sharpening her attentions, and she sees the leader of the gang bending down to leer at her, his hands resting on his thighs.

“’Bout fuckin’ time. Been waiting for hours for you to grace us with your presence,” he drawls nastily, and she looks around the small, dingy room and notices it’s just the two of them. The walls and floors are made of concrete, and the only light available are the small rays of sunlight pushing their way through a tiny window high on the wall.

“Did…why did you knock me out, you bastard? I thought…you said – “ He laughs derisively and slaps his thigh in glee, stepping back to walk over to a decrepit old desk that’s covered in various instruments. Deadly looking instruments.

“You really think I give a shit about fuckin’ you, girl? Nah, I’ve got bigger fish to fry,” he replies, picking up a knife that glints ominously in the small bit of sunlight. “We know you two must’ve come from Jackson. We’ve been working for weeks trying to find a way in without being shot, and lo and behold, we come across you two!”

She snorts, despite the consistent throbbing in her head from being cold cocked with his gun and relaxes her head back against the chair casually.

“And you think I can help you…what, sneak in? I hate to be the bearer of bad news, buddy, but it’s impossible. Truly, there’s no fuckin’ way,” she replies with ease, and for the first time since they’d met, she’s being honest with him. It just wasn’t possible.

“I was thinking of something a bit more…motivating. To the people guarding it. Now, I can’t imagine why anyone would give a rats ass whether you live or die, but I’m banking of the fact that they probably don’t wanna’ see you tortured slowly until you die,” he says smoothly as he saunters towards her, slowly making a circle around her.

She feels a jolt of fear course through her, not about being tortured, but about what they’ll do if they see her…would they give in?

God, I hope not.

“They won’t give up an entire community of good people for me, if that’s what you’re wondering. None of us would, for any one person,” she replies, her jaw clenching as she feels his presence behind her where he comes to a stop.

“That so? Hmmm. Well, I think it’s worth a shot, don’t you?” he chuckles darkly before one of his hands comes to wrap itself around her throat in warning.

“Whatever you say, boss. It’s your show, not mine,” she hisses through clenched teeth, wanting so badly to recoil from his touch.

Fuck. This could be bad. Really, really bad.

“Good girl. Let’s get started then.”

Without warning, he stabs the knife deep into the meat of her shoulder, and a sound she doesn’t even realize she can make is ripping its way out of her throat. The unbearable pain is like nothing she’d ever felt as he twists the blade inside, and instead of crying, she roars. Even through the haze of agony, she refuses to let tears fall.

“Aw, I know, honey. But if you cooperate, we’ll save the brutal shit for the townspeople. Have to give them a good show, y’know?” he says as he grips her braid and yanks her head back hard enough to where she can look up into his eyes at an upside-down angle.

She spits into his face in rage, surmising that if this is her last day on earth, she wasn’t going to go out without a fight.

He yanks the knife out of her body and her back arches unnaturally in her chair as she screams again, all anger and no surrender. He walks around to the front of her now, his face far less at ease as he wipes her spit off angrily with the back of his hand.

“Little bitch likes it rough, huh? That’s fine with me.” He then swiftly sinks the blade into her thigh, crouching down close to see her expression. She almost goes deaf from the sound of her own scream in the small room, and out of instinct and adrenaline, starts thrashing against her restraints in earnest.

“What’s that? You want more?” he asks, his expression mockingly soft as he places his free hand against her cheek. She turns quickly and bites a couple of his fingers as hard she can, picturing her canines cracking the bones in half. He wrestles his fingers out of her mouth as he yelps in pain and surprise, then looks at her incredulously as her chest rises and falls rapidly. She stares straight into his eyes, her mouth now filling with a copper taste, and she gives him a bloody, feral smile.

“Do you?” she whispers, and her voice is acid. He blinks a few times before his face twists into rage and he starts to fumble with his belt before ripping it off. She doesn’t have time to anticipate what his intentions are before he’s stomping around to the back of her as he quickly wraps the belt around her throat, squeezing harder, harder, until little white spots start to erupt across her vision.

“Fuckin’ cocky bitch, I’m gonna’ make you wish you would’ve turned into one of those fucking monsters when you had the chance,” he rasps against her ear, but she can barely hear him through the sound of the blood rushing behind her ears. Her heart is trying, and failing, to keep her alive, and the panic of truly not being able to breathe hits like a freight train. She’s turning absolutely animalistic under her restraints, knocking the chair side to side in her desperate attempt to breathe, to escape.

Please, please, air! Please, god!

She’s practically deaf now as the room starts to shrink, dimming around her like theatres used to do before a movie started.

This is it. Oh, god, this is it…

Just as she’s slipping over the precipice of unconsciousness, the belt slackens, causing her to breathe in a horribly painful, ragged breath that claws its way down into her lungs. She immediately starts coughing so hard that she’s barely able to suck in the sweet, precious air given to her, and nothing matters more at this moment than filling her lungs with it greedily. She feels an agonizing pain start to ripple through her shoulder, and then an almost unbearable sensation of the knife being pulled out of her leg in a swift, precise motion. She screams again, her cry broken and raspy after her throat was crushed so tightly by the belt.

“…….hear me?”

“…………I’m here….”

A low, gentle voice rumbles into her senses from across the world and she wonders for a moment if she’s already dead.

She cracks open her eyes as she feels light pressure being applied to her wounds and realizes there must be people here. She croaks out a feeble warning.

“Who…don’t touch – “

She hears it again then, that low cadence of baritone hushing her gently, wrapping something around her leg.

Her understanding seeps back into her brain as her eyes finally start to clear, although things are still a bit blurry as the intense pain throbs and flows through her.

Then, all at once, fear grips her heart hard as memories come flashing back into sharp focus behind her eyes.

Ellie. ELLIE.

“Where’s Ellie?! ELLIE!” she screams, her voice cracking in panic again as the figure of…Joel?…comes into focus before her. Suddenly, she’s awake. Truly awake.

“She’s fine, Char. She’s okay, she’s right here with me, see?” Joel says in a shockingly gentle voice she’d never heard him use before. Not with her, at least. Sure enough, Ellie pauses tending to her shoulder and walks around to look at her, taking her hand gently. The expression on her face breaks Charlotte’s heart.

“God, they really fucked her up, Joel,” the young girl says with a wince that held equal parts compassion and fury as she surveys Charlotte properly.

“Barely…barely a scratch,” she mutters, grinning crookedly at them before furrowing her brows in pain again and letting her head fall back against the chair.

I’m so tired. But I’m safe. Because of them…is this really even happening?

Before she can say anything more, Joel is gingerly scooping her off the chair – when did her restraints come off? – and starts to make his way out of the building with Ellie in tow.

“We know, tough guy,” Joel whispers to her, the barest hint of a smile in his tone as he jostles her into a sturdier embrace. She can’t help but let out a small whimper and she hears him curse under his breath at himself for being too rough. Her vision is starting to grow a bit fuzzy around the edges, and a feeling of calm starts to wash over her as he holds her close.

Suck it up, buttercup. He just saved your ass. Don’t make him feel bad.

In and out, her consciousness weaves as she registers a few bodies here and there on their way out, Ellie marching resolutely in front of them. Joel is so warm, and he’s breathing hard from having to support all of her weight, but he doesn’t slow down for a second. The light of the already darkening day starts to seep into black and white as she starts to black out, and her mind can only think of Joel and Ellie.

They’re okay. She’s okay.

“I’m sorry, Joel…my fault…I’m sorry,” she grumbles groggily into his shoulder, guilt snaking its way into her heart. She’d put Ellie at serious risk. Now, she was doing it again, but this time with Joel in tow.

I’m supposed to protect her. Not the other way around.

“S’all right, sweetheart. Just hang in there. We’ll be home soon,” he replies, and she can feel the comforting vibrations from his chest as he speaks. She giggles lightly at the pet name, her mental awareness no longer coinciding with reality anymore.

“Sweetheart…” she whispers in a small voice, burrowing her face into him closely enough that her lips graze the pulse point beneath his strong jaw. He inhales sharply through his nose and squeezes her a little tighter in his arms but doesn’t reply. Ellie jogs further ahead to keep an eye out, gun in hand as Joel does his best to move as quietly as possible.

The ground starts to be swallowed up by the sky, and she wants to stay awake so badly, but she just can’t. She slackens her hold around Joel’s neck and her body slumps in his arms, all of the fight leaving her at once. She hears him pleading, jostling her a bit to get her attention, but she just can’t. She just needs to rest, just for a minute.

“M’sorry…so tired…” she mumbles before the darkness floods her vision and the world is swallowed by silence.

#tlou #the last of us #joel miller #ellie williams #joel x oc #tlou fanfic #tlou fanfiction #tlou fic #naughty dog #ps4 #video games #wicked game fic

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manuphantom · 4 years ago

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I replied to a post from pedro on twitter where he had put the link on the new mandalorian season 2 poster, I replied under his post that I was so excited to see him in October and that I was so fond of mando and baby yoda. All of a sudden I get a private message that I hear from Pedro almost takes me doesn't take a hit, I was really shocked. pedro wrote "hello I hope I didn't scare you in the message, thanks for writing in the post, I know who you are, I have seen many of your photos with me next to you you are really funny, I'm sorry I never liked you, I feel that I don't I would like to be too cheeky but I would like to meet you live, answer when you can ", my brain was traveling at an unprecedented speed I thought" oh my god pedro wants to know why I'm afraid of him, if I don't like them? "; in the end I replied "hello pedro sorry if I answer you now, thank you very much for replying you were kind, I don't know what to say to go out with you, however I accept the invitation tell me where". Pedro answered me shortly after "you just have to say yes, I wanted to ask you if you would like to have breakfast with me? I know a nice and quiet place to go called toast bakery cafè", I replied "ok perfect, thanks again then there see you there for 9:00, I'll be dressed casually in black ", Pedro replied" perfect see you there for 9:00, thanks to you for accepting and I apologize again for scaring you usually I'm not like that daring, but there is something about you that intrigues me a lot ", I said" I don't think I'm so intriguing haha, you'll see it for yourself later "; I closed the mail and got dressed. god i was taut like a violin string, i dressed as fast as possible, wore a black mandalorian t-shirt and baby yoda, i had a pair of black shorts below the knee and i was wearing a pair of black adidas trainers. I arrived on site at least 20 minutes early, I waited for pedro in front of the club, I had never been so tense with a man but especially with him, I was curious to see him live. I saw him coming god how beautiful he was, his hair was a little bit longer like in the mandalorian, his eyes were a dark brown like chocolate, that fleshy mouth cabbage I would have given them a bite willingly, it was really beautiful so fascinating up close. he introduces himself giving me his hand "hello nice to meet you", I replied "my pleasure", I shook it, that hand was so soft to the touch, imagine if that hand were to undress me and better not think about it ", pedro said" what about let's go in ", I said" yes of course ". we entered the place was nice and welcoming, we sat at the table facing each other. pedro said "so are you happy to come and have breakfast with me?", i said "i am very happy to be here with you, you really were very kind, why did you want to go out with me", pedro said "to make me to donate all the times that I have not even replied to one of your posts so I wanted to be forgiven ", I looked at him smiling I replied" you do not have to be forgiven for anything, you know it makes me strange to go out with someone like you, do not get me wrong I'm very happy, but I don't understand because just me, I just answered one of yours on the mandalorian ", pedro looked at me with his hypnotic gaze he said" you intrigue me a lot, I would like to know you more if you allow me ", I couldn't believe it pedro wanted to know me more ", I replied with a shy" yes ". Pedro said "let's order breakfast, I'm hungry like wolves", in the end we ordered. Pedro had an American black coffee and buttered toast with blueberries, while I had iced tea and French toast with strawberries.

pedro said "so what's your french toast", I replied "it's really sublime, it will be a lifetime that I didn't eat a french toast so good, instead your toast how is it?", pedro said "it's very good then i love blueberries only my favorite food, so tell me what brings you here in los angeles ", i replied" well i'm attending an acting class and i'm working as a waitress to be able to pay for the course since it's not so cheap ", pedro said" wow congratulations, I also started from scratch doing several auditions, I know what it means to earn a living alone, even if sometimes I suffered from hunger too, but luckily I had a very kind neighbor lady who he was always preparing food, when I moved to New York I was 17 ", I looked at him and replied" I have seen several interviews of you, you are really an interesting person not because you are famous, but because you are simple in hand and it shows, you know not everyone is like that, I love people though mplici because they are themselves I do not like snobs at all that if they pull it I hate them ". he said "you are absolutely right in this world there is little simple, we always have to fight with bitches because a person is different from the color of the skin or because of a different sex, unfortunately we are in a very closed society where the weakest lose and the richer they win, but I'm with the weaker ones we have to give voice to the lower people ", I replied" I agree with you, now let's talk about beautiful things, instead you what will you tell me of course if you can tell me something ", pedro said" well at the moment nothing special, I'm studying some scripts of some movies let's see if they interest me, then today I posted the photos of the entertaiment weekly newspaper and then yesterday I posted a post on instagram of an interview that I have done with a friend of mine about dogs other things related to the mandalorian, the game of thrones etc., have you seen it "he asked curiously; I replied "yes I saw both posts, the interview was super nice, then I love dogs, years ago I was a dog sitter and I volunteered at a kennel here near Los Angeles I wanted to take all the dogs home , too bad I can't afford it "; Pedro said "man, how nice, I have a mongrel dog named edgar, wait I'll show you the photos", took the phone and showed me how many photos he had with edgar, we were so close I could smell his scent of clean and mixed coffee , I had the chills. I looked at the photos ecstatic, how beautiful they were you could see that they really loved each other, then I said "you are really too cute, Edgar looks like a little hairy baby yoda I bet the ahi chosen for that hahaha", he laughed and said "no not I chose him for that, I wanted a dog to keep me company and not feel alone when I'm at home ", I replied" it's a beautiful gesture what you did furry animals are a good company more than human beings ", pedro he said "I'm not a good company?", I replied "of course you are a good company, thank you so much again for today, you have been really kind, but soon I have to go I have to go back to studying", Pedro a little sad said "ok, if you ever need help with anything just let me know is, you can send me an emal or a private message or even to have a chat", I replied "thank you". in the end, pedro paid for both of us, we left the cafeteria, the air was still cool and not too hot for 11:30. Pedro turned to me and said "can I hug you?", I replied "certainly", his hug was so comfortable and soft that I didn't want to let him go, man since they didn't hug like that, I smelled his scent of clean, I was stroking their back a little bit, but after a while I broke away from him, our faces were so close that Pedro kissed me without thinking twice, the kiss was sweet and passionate, I tightened their shirt, then I pulled away back to him but with a stupid smile. Pedro said "it was this morning that I wanted to do it, sorry if I was hasty, but you intrigue me a lot", I put my hands in front of my eyes replying "you kiss very well, but it's me who kisses shit it was a while since I was not kissing someone ", he took his hands from my eyes, stroked my cheek and looked at me" but stop not kissing so badly, I would like to see you again if I can ask ", I incredulously said" do you really want to see me again? I find a jealous girlfriend chasing me with a knife on the street right? ", he laughed heartily" no I have no girlfriend at the moment I'm free and that's why I asked you if I can see you again? " said pedro, I replied "sure there is no problem, I'll leave you my mobile number, now I really have to go", he said "thank you for the wonderful morning later I'll send you a message", I replied " ok ", we said goodbye a little sad, I would not have wanted this day to ever end. I greeted him again and started to go back to work when I get a message on my cellphone from pedro "have a good day", I replied "you too have a good day, we'll soon feel kisses", I went to work as happy as ever. part one

@thewaythisis @ohpedromypedro @oberynispunk @ithinkwehitametaphor

@pedropascalito @takemepedropascal @pedropascalownsmyheart

@poenariuniverse @pisss-offf-ghostt @abuttoncalledsmalls @thisis-theway

@scout-134 @gamingaquarius @dornish-queen @javierpenaaddiction

#pedro pascal

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puppyexpressions · 4 years ago

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10 Great Apartment Dogs

Are you thinking about adopting a brand new puppy? It can be difficult making a decision on which type to get when all of their faces are just so darn cute! Whether you’re living in an apartment complex now or are about to move, you know you at least want to learn more about dogs that are best suited for apartments. We thought you might. That’s why we compiled this list of the most apartment friendly dogs for your consideration and although we’ve narrowed it down to the top ten, that doesn’t mean there aren’t a lot of great pups out there! Use this list as a jumping off point to get you going in the right direction.

1. Pug

This snorting, wrinkly-faced little character with a cinnamon-roll tail is one of my favorite toy dog breeds. He’ll grow to be about 18 lbs (unless you over feed him and make him a big fatty!), follow you around the house, and want to sleep in bed with you. If you can’t stand snoring, then the pug is not your dog. He’ll wheeze louder than your drunken grandpa, who’s passed out in front of the TV. And his beauty is unique. But how can you stare into his cartoon-like eyes and feel anything but love? Unfortunately, due to those bug eyes, pugs are prone to eye injuries. But they’re easy going and affectionate, getting along well with other dogs and with cats too. So if your girlfriend’s high-maintenance Siamese has to stay, you won’t worry about your pug making a meal out of it (he might wrestle with it instead, so let’s hope the cat’s a fighter!).

Take your pug on daily walks and everyone in the neighborhood will admire his cute wiggle as he struts around town. Just be careful not to over exert him. Because of their brachiocephalic (fancy way of saying flat-nosed) faces, pugs can have breathing issues, especially in warm weather. So when you’re outdoors, watch your pug carefully for signs of overheating.

Grooming level required: High. This guy needs you to clean out his facial wrinkles on a daily basis to remove dirt and debris, and also requires daily brushing. Pugs shed a lot, so invest in a decent vacuum cleaner!

Noise level: Medium. Pugs aren’t going to bark without good reason.

Kid friendliness: High. If trained well, pugs enjoy children!

Exercise: Low. Don’t overwork or overheat this little sausage!

2. Bichon Frise

Your Bichon Frise will get along well with other animals, should you already own any. His energy level is high, so be sure to take him for walks in the park and to play indoor games as well. Except scrabble. He’s intelligent, but c’mon, he’s still a dog. If left alone for long periods of time, the Bichon suffers from separation anxiety. Workaholics who spend all day and night at the office will break his fluffy little heart!

Grooming level required: Low. The Bichon’s coat barely sheds, so this breed is good for people with allergies. Bichons do need daily brushing to keep their fur from matting. Also, a monthly bath is required to keep your dog’s coat white.

Noise Level: Low. He’s not prone to yippiness like the poor excuse for a dog that belongs to that crotchety old lady down the hall.

Kid friendliness: Medium. Bichons are good with children, but puppies should be handled by kids only under adult supervision.

Exercise: High. Get your Bichon out of the house regularly for a game of fetch, and practice teaching him tricks at home.

3. Chihuahua

I know what you’re thinking. Yo quiero Taco Bell. Three crunchy tacos supreme, please! But there’s a reason that the adorable Chihuahua is the star of commercials and Hollywood movies: she’s got that it factor! This little baby weighs in at 2-6 lbs, so she can definitely fit in your Fendi handbag. But you don’t need to be a reality show has-been like Paris Hilton to walk around toting one of these babies. Chihuahua’s can be bigger divas than J-Lo if overindulged, so remind your doggie who’s the boss. That being said, they’re affectionate, intelligent and fast learners.

Your Chihuahua’s larger-than-life personality means she’s loud and talkative. Forgetting her size, she’ll probably challenge the Doberman down the block to a fight, so be careful when you’re on walks together. This go-anywhere companion needs a loving owner to take care of her for the next eighteen years. If that scares the bejesus out of your commitment-phobic self, this dog is not for you!

Grooming level required: Low. You only need to brush once a week.

Noise level: Medium to high. These dogs like to talk!

Kid friendliness: Low. It’s too dangerous to have these tiny dogs around children under the age of eight, because your Chihuahua might get injured. But do socialize her around kids.

Exercise: High. Chihuahuas need 20-30 minutes of daily exercise, and are eager to keep playing, so make sure your dog doesn’t wear herself out.

4. Poodle

There’s a reason there are so many -oodle bred dogs (goldendoodle, labradoodle, schnoodle, etc)! Poodles are one of the best-behaved and even-mannered breeds you can own. They’re also hypoallergenic so people with allergies won’t have to worry! The poodle is the second most intelligent dog breed which makes them incredibly skillful and quick learners . Although they are slightly larger in size, they’re also skinny so tend to fall under most apartment weight limits. They are relatively quiet, don’t have large amounts of energy, and tend to get along well with other dogs and humans. Basically, Poodles are every apartment accommodating personality trait rolled up into the perfect pup!

Noise level: Low. You’re more likely to hear your neighbors getting rowdy during a game of Pictionary than hear your Poodle make a racket.

Kid friendliness: High. Poodles love kids. Simple as that.

Exercise: Medium. Poodles do have a good amount of energy but that doesn’t mean they need to be running around in open spaces all the time. Exercising their minds with thinking games and training inside your apartment work just as well!

5. Shiba Inu

This member of Japan’s six native dog breeds is known for her fun personality, pointy ears and agility. Your friends might point out that your curly-tailed Shiba resembles a fox and is like a Ninja Warrior! Weighing in at 20 lbs, she’s nimble, quick, keen and alert. The Shiba is fiercely independent, which is why it’s important to socialize her early with other dogs. This smarty-pants may think she knows what’s best, so look for a trainer who understands this breed’s unique mindset.

Another thing- your Shiba doesn’t like to share her toys. She’ll guard her belongings with her teeth bared. Be sure to give your Shiba Inu enough exercise with a neighborhood walk or jog. But if you take her off leash, be careful-she’ll chase cats (if you live in an urban neighborhood like mine) or squirrels, and could potentially be aggressive with other dogs. If you don’t appreciate her firecracker personality, the Shiba might not be for you. But give her love and she’ll love you right back, charming you with her spunk and loyalty.

Grooming level required: Low, though she’ll shed heavily twice a year. Ready to splurge on that Dyson vacuum yet?

Noise level: Medium. She shouldn’t bark unless something suspicious is going on, or another dog is making her feel threatened.

Kid friendliness: Medium. The Shiba Inu will be friendly towards children as long as they treat her with kindness and respect. No tail pulling!

Exercise: Medium. Getting outside is important for this breed. Make sure she gets a good daily workout.

6. Chinese Crested

Some refer to the Chinese Crested as the worlds ugliest dog? But if you’re sick, your Chinese Crested will lie in bed with you for hours. This 12 lb sack of love will fall in love with you, make you her world, and never leave your side. If you’ve just gone through a soul-crushing breakup, the Chinese Crested will nurse your blackened heart back to health.

This heat-loving canine can lounge in the sun like a lizard, so if you live in the Arizona desert, a Chinese Crested is for you. However, he has no tolerance for cold, and can’t be exposed to it as a means of ‘toughening up.’ Please don’t torture your dog, let him be comfortable!

Like that time you sent your ex-boyfriend two hundred text messages, your Crested also suffers from separation anxiety. Be careful, this David Blaine-esque dog can escape from almost any enclosure, and will dig, bark and climb if he’s freaked out. But he’ll play games, cuddle affectionately, and love your family with all his hairless little heart.

Grooming level required: Medium. Even though he’s hairless, the hair he does have needs to be trimmed. Also, he needs to be bathed regularly.

Noise level: High. Yep, this guy’s a talker. He’ll bark to protect his home, and sometimes he’ll sing!

Kid friendliness: Medium: They do well with kids, but small children could be a danger to the dog because he’s so tiny.

Exercise: Low. Chinese Crested dogs will tire out after about 15-20 minutes of play time and want to go back to their den. But they can jump over low fences, so be careful not to let them escape!

7. Boston Terrier

This tuxedo-wearing gentleman is a dapper and affectionate dog. The only problem? He might be too smart for his own good. 10-25 lbs of stubbornness in a handsome black and white coat, Boston Terriers can be hyperactive at times. But they’re so incredibly cute, all bad behavior is forgiven. Just look at those big round eyes! Not to say that Boston’s are all trouble. Like Matt Damon’s character in Good Will Hunting, they’re fighters on the outside, but loving and affectionate at home. Because they’re in the same class of dogs as pugs (brachycephalic), these guys are prone to over heating. Their funny antics will amuse all your friends, as will their snorting, drooling and flatulence. That’s right- don’t get a Boston Terrier if fart jokes make you uncomfortable. These dogs are usually quiet, but like a true Bostonian, they’ll get scrappy if another male invades their territory. How about them apples?

Grooming level required: Medium. Brush your Boston weekly and wash his face everyday, to check his eyes for redness or irritation. Like the pug, these big-eyed dogs are prone to eye problems.

Noise level: Low, except when another male is on his turf.

Kid friendliness: High. Bostons love children!

Exercise: Medium. These dogs are fairly inactive indoors. He’ll take a walk with you, and he loves to play, but then he’ll tire out and take a nap.

8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

You fell in love with her as Elizabeth Taylor, Charlotte’s dog in Sex and the City. (If you’re a chick, then like me, you’ve probably seen every episode more than once). The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is intelligent, sweet and tail-waggingly cute. Cavaliers are attached to their owners and like to be spoiled. They shouldn’t be left alone for long, so part-time workers or stay-at-home moms make good owners. Cavaliers are too friendly to become good guard dogs. Please don’t rely on your girl as an alarm system! After barking at an intruder, she’ll probably try to lick his face off. At 13-18 pounds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the perfect size for apartment dwellers. Cavaliers enjoy a good game of chase; therefore, cats should be ready to play tag. But your parakeet will get eaten…seriously. So yeah, don’t own a bird. You can’t take the hunting instinct out of this English lady!

Grooming level required: Medium-High. Brush their coat 3-4 times a week and bathe the dog when necessary.

Noise level: Low. The Cavalier might bark when someone comes to the door, or she’ll just ignore it and keep quiet.

Kid friendliness: High. She’ll sit on your daughter’s lap while watching Spongebob.

Exercise: Medium. Take her out for walks, but don’t let her off the leash. This poor little princess has no street smarts whatsoever, and might run in front of a car.

9. English Bulldog

There’s a reason the English Bulldog has been chosen as a mascot for so many universities and sports teams. The breed is known for being tough and tenacious, but personally I think the bulldog’s squashy face is too adorable to be intimidating. I mean, look at that broad head and those stubby legs, that funny under bite and all those wrinkles! The laziest of dogs, this 40-50 lb guy is perfect if you want someone to cuddle with. Though they’re courageous and protective of their families, bulldogs are also friendly and playful. You might think it’s cute when your bulldog snores (not so cute when he farts), but beware of the many respiratory problems they’re prone to. You better start pumping some iron at the gym because you’ll need to be able to lift this fatty when it’s time to take him to the vet! Your bulldog will sleep until it’s time to eat again (just like your good-for-nothing ex-husband), so don’t expect a lot of activity from him. Though he loves children, you won’t find your bulldog playing fetch at the family barbecue. He’ll be sitting next to you, waiting for his hamburger patty.

Grooming level required: Medium. Brush his coat once a week and clean the wrinkles of his face every day with a damp cloth. He’s an average shedder: brushing more than once a week will reduce the amount of hair.

Noise level: Low. They are too lazy to bark. In fact, he’s probably asleep.

Kid friendliness: Very high. This tolerant sweetheart will let your toddler torment him.

Exercise: Low. He won’t want to go on a walk, but you need to take him anyway. Once a day is fine. But keep him away from swimming pools and hot tubs. He can’t swim!

10. Bitsa

What’s a Bitsa you ask? A bitsa this and a bitsa that! In other words, a mixed breed, a mutt, a few little slices of heaven all mixed into one great dog. Mixed breeds are great because they tend to not have any super dominant traits. Since they’re a mix of different breeds, their personality traits tend to blend together into a much more mellow mutt. A mellow temperament helps this dog breed adjust to a variety of households and living conditions more easily. Bitsa’s are also statistically proven to be healthier than purebreds, so if you’re spending extra on pet rent or a deposit, you’re more likely spending less at the vet. Lastly, because they are a combination of breeds, you’re more likely to be allowed to have say a pitbull-mix than, unfortunately, if your dog is predominately pitbull.

Noise level, kid friendliness, and exercise all depend on the specific dog you have but can be highly affected by the way they are raised!

#apartment dogs #dog breeds for small spaces

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morelikesin · 4 years ago

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The third chapter of my self-indulgent kiss fic! Focusing on Octane and Bloodhound exclusively here, but the other love interests are mentioned. Below is the chapters in order.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 - Intro

Chapter 2 - Mirage

Chapter 3 - Octane (You are here!)

Chapter 4 - Caustic

Chapter 5 - Ending

Chapter 3 below the cut!

Bloodhound shook themselves of any ash that may have still been on them from the campfire outside - entering the communal kitchen while bringing in the smell of rich wood and smoke. They'd told the other legends that they ought to be getting some sleep, and while the hunter intended to do so, they knew sleep never came easily. However, it may be easier tonight - the warmth of the fire still lingering in their memory, the great conversation held with friends (not to mention the mutual confession of love with Elliott prior), and the hearty meal they'd made bringing feelings of comfort and, as rare as it was, some peace of mind.

The door had opened, though, and just as they had turned to see who did so, it closed and an ever-excitable Octavio pranced his way over.

"You guys need to cook for us more often," he spoke as he patted his stomach and stretched out his back a bit, "That was amazing!"

Blóð gave a shallow snort and bowed their head just an inch. "Thank you. Elliott and I felt the need to tr'reat you all - today was hard fought."

"Sí," Octavio nodded, "Had my culo burnt twice trying to get out of that damn ring, hah! Nothing I can't handle."

"I'm comforted knowing you aren't hurt."

The man tilted his head to the side as he rubbed the back of his neck, then stretched his arms out - holding his hands with his palms outwards to help crack his knuckles. "Say, you sure you wanna' go to sleep so soon? The night is young - I've got energy to burn."

Blóð blinked and furrowed their brows in confusion. Their mask concealed their face (having put it back on after finishing their meal), so the expression wasn't noticed, but the man was able to read the room. Blóð clarified their bemusement, "The others are staying avake. They'll make better company than I."

"Pero I'm asking you, Blóð - you don't have to, but I would love your company in particular."

The use of their real name made the hunter feel some type of way. It wasn't a bad feeling - Octavio had used their name several times in the past, moreso than the other legends, but hearing it come from him always felt different somehow.

It was the same feeling they got when Elliott called them their name. Pleasant, warm, almost wanting to hear it coming from their particular voice more.

If this revelation wasn't embarrassing enough, it only made them even moreso when they knew that between them and Dr. Nox, they were on a Legend Alias and last name only basis - despite how much the hunter wanted to be close enough with the man to cross that barrier as well. For them, the relationship was unbearably professional.

Concealing the depth of their feelings for not one, not two, but three people simultaneously for months on end, said feelings only becoming stronger as time went on, was an experience Blóð hadn't ever planned for. This was the last thought they could conjure before being brought back to the current moment via Octavio offering one last shot at an invitation.

"Come hang out with me, compadre."

They hesitated to answer at first, but figured it wouldn't hurt any to say yes. "..I'll join you, then."

Octavio wore a grin, "Sweeeet! C'mon then."

He quickly took the hunter's hand and started leading them upstairs - Blóð, again, not finding themselves surprised with his straightforwardness. They blushed, yes, but they weren't surprised.

Octavio lead them to the second door on the right - letting go of their hand only to unlock the door and swing it open haphazardly. Stepping inside, he proceeded to raise a hand and mess with his hair.

"Mi casa es tu casa," Octavio purred as he removed his combat vest. Hanging it up, he sat on his bed and pat beside himself for the hunter to join.

Blóð went to politely decline, not wanting to overstay their welcome, but Octavio was always good at reading people - Blóð especially, being one of the first people to have become good friends with the hunter. When he gave a playful "My house, my rules. Come sit with me," the hunter knew they couldn't turn him down.

Blóð proceeded to close the door behind themselves and come forward, inquiring briefly about locking the door - to which Octavio laughed.

"Any reason we're going to need the door locked, hermosa?" He jested - bringing Blóð to a deep blush when they had realized what Octavio insinuated. The tone he used didn't help either - it sounded almost like an invitation, the way his voice lowered and kept somewhat in his throat.

They were quick to defend their statement, "I didn't mean to sound cr'rude - my apologies. I meant it as your pr'rivacy."

"Estoy bromeando," Octavio laughed between words, his tone returning to normal, "Wish I could'a seen the look on your face!"

"I'm sure."

Blóð sat beside Octavio. They tried to not take up much room, putting their clasped hands in their lap and sitting quite upright. Comfortable enough to do so, they hesitantly removed their mask and set it on their host's bedside table.

Octavio, leaning back with his hands behind him for support, watched the hunter with an amused smile.

"I was wondering when you'd take that off."

Blóð gave a small shrug and adjusted the chain connecting their fur overcoat to their long-sleeved tunic. "You in particular have seen me without it more than the others - I'm..gr'rowing used to it."

"I'm patient," Octavio assured, wearing a softened grin, "take your time. Pero us with the masks gotta' stick together, no?"

Blóð bore a slight chortle, breathy and light, "Suppose."

Oh, how Octavio loved that sound.

They sat in silence for a few moments - neither truly minding, but it'd be a lie to say that they weren't racking their minds for something to talk about.

Octavio took in a breath, hesitated, then seemed to go with what he was going to say after second-guessing it. "Don't answer if you don't want to compadre, but.. I'm curious." His voice was lower than normal - tone indicative of something more serious. "I can tell you my stories if you want. I'm just wondering.. How'd you get your scars?"

Blóð fluttered their eyes a bit - the question unexpected, but they didn't find it malicious at all. Furrowing their brows a bit in thought, they looked to the floor and contemplated how best to explain what they wanted to.

"I'm willing to answer. They're all seper'rate occasions," Bló�� subtly gestured to their face with their hand, looking back to Octavio, "these thr'ree."

"They the reason you cover up, or...?"

They gave a shake of their head. "I cover up for.. pr'rivacy reasons. I simply prefer not having to show my physical identity where I can help it. This would be the case with or vithout my marks."

Octavio gave a nod and suddenly sounded a bit remorseful. "I hear ya'. Ah - lo siento muchísimo."

The hunter tilted their head just slightly and gave a confused "Vhy?"

"For getting you to take off your mask in front of the others," Octavio admitted, "about a week ago."

Blóð made an "Ah" under their breath, looking to the side for a second and then back. "..You're forgiven. I think ever'ryone vas panicked that day."

"Still."

"You cared about my well-being," the hunter assured, "I know you meant well."

Octavio kept quiet for a moment before letting out a snort and giving them a thankful smile. "Gracias."

"Þat var ekki." Blóð nodded, "Gods know I vas to have the others know what I look like at some time - hoping to be concealed forever was unlikely. I'm more concerned about the public seeing, is all."

"You don't know what kinda' relief I feel hearing that, Blóð - been bothering me since it happened."

"Well.." The hunter paused, "I hope your guilt eases. I'm well, truly."

There was another pause.

"I still owe to you my stories."

Octavio made another snort and rose a hand to pull back his hair a bit. "That, my fr'riend, you do."

The hunter grabbed at their dark-brown fur overcoat, pulling it up just for it to fall past their shoulders like it always did. "This got me here," they brushed a hand against the aforementioned coat as they turned their head and ran their index fingertip along the rigid scar across the upper side of their head. "Bear claws are to be scoffed at not."

Octavio reached over and felt the ursine coat the hunter always wore - thick and heavy and assumedly kept them rather warm. "Always thought self-hunted clothes were awesome - Hey! You should get me a blanket sometime!"

Blóð smiled gently, "I'll make sure to do that."

Octavio would've said he was joking about requesting one (as cool as they were), but the thought of a real fur-and-hide item from them was admittedly romantic. He kept the thought to himself.

Romantic was an understatement to Blóð. They doubted Octavio knew how meaningful it was in their culture to be hunting and making items for another, but it still felt so incredibly intimate. They had to hope the heat they started feeling on their cheeks was not visible in the form of a blush - though it most definitely was.

To clear the air, they quickly moved on to their other scars - though they kept the explanations short.

"This came from a battle," they traced the line over the bridge of their nose horizontally. "Was cut by another's axe."

Octavio blinked in surprise - though kept quiet. If the scars weren't hot to him before, they definitely were now.

Blóð then finally traced over the one close to their blind eye, from the brow to their cheekbone. "This vas from me falling."

"¿Qué?"

The amused confusion in Octavio's tone made the hunter chortle once again. "I fell on a br'ranch, rather. Unfortunate fall caused the mark as vell as the lost vision in this eye."

"I see," he nodded, still smiling from the initial misunderstanding. "Well I think you're a badass. Always did, but the stories help."

"I, ah.. Þakka fyrir. They're nothing, truly - though it's flattering for you to think so." Blóð kept quiet a moment before returning the question, "What about you? If you are willing to share, rather."

"Me? Ohhh, mine aren't as cool as yours - these came from a pr'rowler," he turned his right arm a bit as he stretched it out in front of him - the large jagged marks concentrated on his inner forearm.

Blóð made an amused, subtle snort. "Did you try to pet them?"

Octavio entertained the joke with a laugh and a sigh, "Would've if I could've." He continued on to explain his most obvious one, the burn patch on the right side of his face, "This is from jet fuel, believe it."

"I'm surprised it isn't worse, considering that."

He gave a shrug, "Stood in the wrong place at the wrong time fucking around with something - this is definitely just a lucky singe. Guess you could say it wasn't exactly 'high octane.'"

The hunter made another amused chuckle, though it was more relaxed than their previous ones. "Suppose you could. Thank you for sharing."

"¡De nada!"

Conversation ran dry, and silence between them rested once more - Octavio bouncing his leg while Bloodhound observed the room around them. Colorful bean bags and a cozy looking couch were circled in front of a flat-screen-TV-mounted wall on the far side of the room, with a few controllers and a pack of Bang energy drinks sitting on the coffee table in front of them. He had a few clothes in a small pile beside the end of his bed, but otherwise the place was tidy - simply lived in. Flashy posters and band-related canvases decorated the walls, complimenting the forest green paint (and the black accent wall where the TV setup was).

They were pulled out of their thoughts when Octavio tilted his head towards them, eyes still looking ahead, and began to speak; "Can I say something a little weird?"

"What is it?"

Octavio didn't speak for a moment, musing over the way to say this. He's always been forward about things, but this felt different.

"..I, uh - I like you. A lot, you know."

Blóð furrowed their brows and made a small snort, "Same to you. You're a dear friend to me."

Octavio smiled. "Oh, definitely. I uh.. I mean it a little differently, though."

He looked to the hunter with a sheepish smile, tilting his head towards his shoulder and giving a small sigh. "I like you more than a friend, guapo. Have for a few months now," he admitted, looking away as he spoke that last part. He sat up and moved his hands to settle on his thighs. "I don't want to say that and make things weird between us, though."

Blóð had to take a moment to process that - the silence serving as a moment to think for them, while it simply made Octavio nervous as all hell.

"..More than a friend?" They questioned, almost as if they couldn't wrap their head around it.

"Sí."

"Oh."

Octavio started to bounce his leg again in anticipation of something more than just an "Oh." In haste to remedy what felt like an awkward situation, he quickly spoke, "We can forget about it if you want - I just thought you should know."

Blóð blinked and remained quiet a moment longer. They finally spoke up, words chosen cautiously, "..If I'm to be honest with you, Octavio.." They paused briefly, "I feel affection for you - deeper than fr'riendship, as well."

He immediately made a bemused, short hum. Blinking and looking back to the hunter, Octavio looked them up and down momentarily.

"Really? You're not pulling my leg?"

As much as Octavio wanted to say some joke about his prosthetics, he refrained from doing so.

"I'm not."

They looked at each other for a long moment - soaking in the feeling of having their confessions spoken aloud, admiring the other. Octavio slowly put his hand atop of Blóð's - the touch tentative, yet doting. The feeling of Blóð's gentle yet firm hand coming to embrace Octavio's somewhat calloused, lithe hand was a pleasant one.

Octavio tilted his head slightly, giving a small, warm smile. "¿Puedo besarte?"

Blóð smiled softly, if a little nervously, and nodded slowly, "Yes."

Then Octavio leaned up, being much shorter than the other, and planted a soft kiss on the hunter's lips. They reciprocated shyly - the sensation still ever so new. It was warm, and sweet, and lasted a few moments before they mutually pulled away - the long gaze they gave each other afterwards clearly in relishing the moment. Octavio ran his thumb over the back of Blóð's hand, caressing gently.

"Wanna' stay the night?"

The hunter blinked and contemplated that - like always, not wishing to overstay their welcome, but the offer was rather sweet. The decision was easier to make this time around. "..I suppose I will."

Octavio grinned and moved over, with Blóð missing the touch on their hand as he removed it. He pulled the cozy, thick blankets down and settled himself in - pulling them down a bit more beside him and patting the space for Blóð to reside. "Maybe you'll finally get some sleep tonight."

Octavio had been informed on many an occasion how Blóð missed a concerning amount of sleep for one reason or another, though most often from their mind being perturbed. He hoped maybe, for at least tonight, they'd be able to rest.

Blóð hummed softly as they came to lie beside their companion, remaining a bit stiff but comfortable otherwise. "Maybe so."

Octavio shut off the bedside lamp that shone on his side - the moonlight from the window now the only illumination in the room.

There was uncertainty, regarding this arrangement. What would be moving too fast, too slow? Lying beside one another was found to be almost overwhelmingly intimate on its own, but something felt missing. In a search to find and remedy it, Blóð tentatively rested their fingertips against Octavio's hand. It seemed to solve the missing piece, if just by a bit.

Octavio, however, had a more fulfilling idea. Turning on his side, arm wrapped underneath the pillow his head rest upon, he came closer to the hunter and draped his arm across their abdomen. Despite the fresh confessions, being close like this already felt oddly natural. Blóð held a momentary, timid breath before relaxing. They placed their hands on their stomach, with one atop of Octavio's, and proceeded to find sleep surprisingly tempting.

When Blóð awoke, they rubbed at their eyes and took a moment to recall where they were - what happened before they fell asleep.

They blushed.

Swallowing, finding the taste of their mouth unpleasant, they looked around with lidded eyes. They were warm, underneath all of the blankets and having Octavio near-spooning them from behind - their positions having shifted during the night. It was so inviting to stay where they were and go back to sleep, but something told them that they should probably get up.

Moving slowly, Blóð removed themselves from Octavio's hold and pushed away the blankets, sitting up and swinging their legs over the bed to stand. Stretching their arms, they mindlessly looked around the room as they did so - catching a glimpse of the digital clock on Octavio's dresser.

Blóð paid it no mind, for a second. Then they remembered what day it was, and looked back at the clock to reaffirm if they saw the time right.

10:07.

The legends board the dropship for the games at 10:10.

Leaning down, Blóð gently shook Octavio's shoulder to try and get him up. It took a few tries, the last being a little rougher, before he did so - the man making a small, throaty noise prior to the hunter explaining "We're going to be late for the game, Octavio."

He didn't respond immediately, but did after a quick moment; voice sleepy and yet a little rushed, "Dammit." He laughed a little though as he got up, not entirely pressed but still wanting to be as on time as they could. The two hurriedly threw on their gear (with Blóð having to make a trip to their room for the rest of it), headed downstairs, and left out the door - hands brushing against each other as they walked, and eventually holding pinkies while breaking into shy smiles.

#apex legends #apex octane #apex bloodhound #morelikesin #my art #my work #my writing #don't steal #original #finished #traditional art

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1-1snailxd-art · 5 years ago

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“We’re kind of tangled in lights.” Moxiety walking in on logince

Warnings: none

Summary: “and they were roommates” 😝 collage/university au (set around the share houses I looked at when I thought about going to a city uni). Decorating the common area turned into a tangled mess.

Intro (lazy background): Roman has landed his first major role in Beauty and the Beast. He tries to show off that he is an excellent dancer to Logan while they are decorating the common area but it doesn’t end so well for them.

*******************

It started with laughter, then came the half serious half giggled “stop”, and it ended with a thud. Virgil and Patton eyed each other from opposite sides of Patton’s queen sized bed before discarding their study and racing downstairs.

Virgil took the lead and took in the scene on the common room floor first; putting his fist to his mouth to stop himself from bursting out laughing as Roman and Logan grumbled at each other.

“Are you two all-oh my goodness.”

Patton leant around Virgil, took in the tangled mess on the carpet and didn’t bother holding back his laughter.

“So,” Virgil cleared his throat to compose himself as he stepped down the stairs and fully took in his grumbling roommates, “what’s going on you two?”

“We’re kind of tangled in lights.” Roman huffed; though a smile was beginning to creep onto his face again as he came to terms with the hilarity of the situation.

“I thought that fact would have been rather obvious.” Logan said as he tried to pull his arm out from beneath the other.

“How did this even happen?”

Patton stifled his laughter enough to kneel opposite Virgil as they both attempted untangle the lights from their roommates.

"Unimportant.” Logan said, staring hard at Roman to make sure he didn’t get any ideas of telling the others. “Your help in separating us is greatly appreciated though.”

Patton and Virgil soon had the pair apart and Logan adjusted his tie before thanking them again. All around, cheeks were red from embarrassment or stifled laughter. In 15minutes the lights were up where they were meant to be; wrapped around the Christmas tree and framing the common area walls. Logan disappeared up stairs first, his door softly clicking shut as he went to review his study notes. Roman waited until his other roommates returned to Patton’s room before softly knocking on the locked door.

“Access status.” Roman whispered after he heard the telltale sound of the computer chair moving.

“Denied.”

Arms folded across his chest, Logan lent back against the wall beside his door and listened carefully.

“You’re still mad about the lights aren’t you?”

“Clearly.”

“Lo,” Roman sighed, “I’m sorry. I just got so caught up in the moment I wasn’t thinking…can you forgive me?”

Silence stretched on but neither moved from their listening positions. Finally Roman lent his forehead against the door and the silent air was broken.

“I’ll let you lead if you let me in.”

The door lock clicked and Roman stepped inside to find Logan still leaning against the wall with folded arms.

“You are so annoying, you know that.”

“Yes, but you love it.”

“You’re a dumbass.” Logan pushed off the wall as Roman clicked the door shut; extending a hand for his partner to take.

“But I’m your dumbass.” Accepting the hand, Roman stepped closer and placed his other hand on Logan’s shoulder. “Lead the way, Specs. Sweep this princess off their feet.”

“With pleasure.”

Away from prying eyes and free from trip hazards the two stepped around the room with careful steps; thankful that Logan had the largest room with the simplest style. Roman had to admit that Logan was right, stepping into his partners role was an eye opening experience and feeling Logan’s subtle guiding movements made him realise how unfair he had been to his actual dance partner. Clearly he still had a lot to learn before his next play rehearsal but he was glad to know Logan, of all people, would be able to help him.

“I had no idea you were such a skilled dancer, Lo.”

“There is much you don’t know about me.”

“Much like Belle and the beast.” Their steps slowed and the pair locked eyes. “There is more than meets the eyes with you.”

“Indeed.” Extending his arm, Roman stepped away and Logan bowed. “And perhaps, the same could be said for you.”

Gripping an imaginary dress, Roman curtsied and folded his hands behind his back. “I concede that you are a skilled dancer, Logan. I should have taken you seriously before. Again, I’m sorry for embarrassing you b-”

“Roman, you are forgiven.” Stepping back, Logan sat on his beds edge and looked up at the brown haired man before him. “I only ask that you take me seriously from this point on. I don’t like always being a joke to you.”

“Okay, can I ask you something seriously then?” He waited for Logan to nod before sitting beside him on the neat navy patterned bedspread. “Will you be my special guest for my opening night performance?”

“Of course.” He reached out and covered Roman’s hand that rested on his leg. “You will obviously need my feedback to ensure your performances improve before your parents observe you on Christmas Eve.”

“You’re such an asshole.” Roman chuckled and shifted his hand so their fingers could intertwine.

“True, but I'm your asshole.”

They both laughed before Roman closed the gap and met Logan’s lips, all frustrations pushed aside as they gave into something only their hearts understood; silently cursing the fact that their roommates had been correct all along.

Across the hall, Patton and Virgil had given up on study in favour of crafting a little surprise. They both knew saying “I told you so” would have been a little big headed, but that didn’t mean they weren’t going to have some fun. When Roman and Logan came downstairs for dinner, they found a sheet of poster paper laying at the foot of the stairs saying “congratulations on catching feelings.”

“Really you guys!” Roman called so the others could hear from the kitchen.

“I told you they wouldn’t be subtle.” Logan said as he stepped over the paper display. “You owe me $20 and two cleaning days.”

Groaning, Roman followed him around the corner and they both prepared for the bombardment of questioning.

——————————

For a oneshot, this went many different directions and was going to be long because my brain wanted to write a long story buuuuut that’s not the point of these. Whatever, I’m officially on holidays now so I’m hoping to find a nice holiday spot to chill out and write.

Prompt from this list.

General tag list: @thequeensphinx @ollyollyoxinfree @celeste-tyrrell @pumpkinminette @ahyeahisurehopeit-does

#sanders sides #sanders sides fanfiction #logince #moxiety #logan sanders #roman sanders #virgil sanders #patton sanders #my writing #snail writing #christmas prompts #holiday prompt #long post #ask snail

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imagitory · 5 years ago

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Star Wars Episode IX: The Rise of Skywalker review [SPOILERS]

Hey, everybody! So I just got back from seeing the newest Star Wars and...whew, am I tired!

For those of you who want a spoiler-free review, I’ll just say that there’s a reason people are so split about this movie. In some ways, I could argue that TRoS is trying to be its own stand-alone thing, and it does so by shoving in way too many plot beats and new characters without enough development or even a satisfactory conclusion for them...and yet at the same time, it tries so hard to evoke the original trilogy like The Force Awakens did, whether through iconography, cameos, or other kinds of fanservice. To put it very simply, if you disliked The Last Jedi, you might come out enjoying this more, since this movie and its director clearly shared your view, but even if The Last Jedi is a flawed film, I feel it still ended up having better direction, character arcs, and storytelling than this film did.

For those of you who don’t fear spoilers...journey on.

The Good!

+Just like in the other installments in this new trilogy, there were some great action moments. I liked when Kylo and Rey were fighting over the First Order ship with the Force, pulling it back and forth like they had previously done with Anakin’s lightsaber. Poe’s lightspace jumping in the Millennium Falcon was a cool trick, and I actually really enjoyed the short suspenseful bit with Poe, Finn, Rey, and the droids sneaking around in the wintry planet Kijimi, too.

+The trick at the end where Rey passed Kylo Anakin’s lightsaber through the Force and the two battled side-by-side while in different locations was neat. I might’ve liked to see that trick used differently (see below), but it was still really cool.

+Poe and Finn were acting like SUCH boyfriends during this entire movie. I don’t care how much “NO HOMO” J.J. tried to slap on these guys in the script (and I’ll discuss that in a minute), these two were friggin’ boyfriends and that was canon, end of story.

+I liked that Leia was able to mentor Rey, and Leia’s death was appropriately sad. It felt like I was mourning Carrie all over again, especially since we’re so close to the anniversary of her death.

+It was kind of cool to see Luke’s old X-Wing again. I might’ve had it reappear in a different way, but it was still cool.

+Rey hearing all of the Jedi in her head for the first time when she was facing Palpatine at the end was great. I might’ve pushed it further and made it more visually interesting, but I’ll get to that in the more negative section.

+For all of the rather unnecessary fanservice, there were a few music cues that really worked -- namely, the Imperial March echo when Rey arrived in the old throne room on the Death Star, Leia’s theme upon her death, and the Jedi theme when Poe saw the fleet of reinforcements arriving.

The Not-So-Good...

+The Reylo-ness of it all. *dodges knives* OKAY. LISTEN --

If you’re a Reylo shipper, then good for you. I mean that sincerely. But I’m sorry, I am convinced that this ending could only have been satisfying to you if you were on the Reylo ship from the very start due to your own personal shipping preferences, because there is NOTHING in the films that justifies the powerful emotional bond that these two supposedly share. Rey and Kylo only met two movies ago, and in both movies, Kylo showed no interest in improving himself and being a better person. None. I don’t care if Rey “sensed” goodness in him -- that is a terrible, weak short-cut for a writer to use, to tell us that Kylo is good without showing it to us. We still see him slaughter people en masse in the very first scene of this movie. We still see him trying to force Rey to join him, even if it puts the people she cares about in danger. We still see him hooking up with Palpatine -- FRIGGIN’ PALPATINE -- after he’d only just rid himself of Snoke. I don’t care if Kylo thinks he can get rid of Palpatine like he did with Snoke -- I don’t care if he’s conflicted and worried about Rey -- we the audience see no evidence that Kylo has truly changed his ways and is worth saving. Leia SACRIFICED HER LIFE to try to help him -- for what?? I know she’s his mother, but I’m sorry, Leia: if your husband couldn’t save your son from himself, why would you be able to? Why didn’t you almost dying in The Last Jedi not affect your son more, if he really cared? Why was calling his name all you had to do? Why didn’t you do that before he started killing all these people? Because it wasn’t dramatically convenient? Because he was fighting Rey at that exact moment and the writers needed to find a way to end that action scene that otherwise could’ve ended with either Rey or Kylo dying? And I’m sorry, but this whole storyline resulted in the one thing I’d dreaded more than anything would happen in a story that shipped these two -- Rey became a tool to Kylo’s redemption. Rather than standing apart as someone with no legacy who builds her own through being a good, noble person, she became defined by her familial and romantic relationships more than she was by her actions. I know Rey ended up defeating Palpatine in the end, but most of her screentime still ended up devoted to her “bond” with Kylo Ren and showed how her love brought him back to the Light. Because seriously, screw the love Kylo’s parents showed him, or Luke showed him -- all they did was sacrifice themselves trying to help him while also standing by their morals and never being tempted to fall like Kylo did -- no, only Rey could’ve brought him back to the side of Good.

And before any of you even try to wave the Sith Lord of my Heart, Darth Vader, in my face, as Snoke said in The Last Jedi, Kylo Ren is no Vader. Vader was tethered to the Empire and to the Emperor, thanks to the injuries he sustained on Mustafar that left him trapped inside his mechanical suit -- if he’d left the Empire, he would’ve died, and on top of all that, he’d already lost his entire family and turned everyone he’d ever cared about -- who were all Jedi -- against him by falling to the Dark Side. Vader had been Anakin -- a slave who was bought out of enslavement by the Jedi, who then turned around and taught him to -- to borrow a phrase -- “conceal, don’t feel,” even if it meant turning a blind eye to the death of his wife and unborn child. Kylo Ren turned to the Dark Side because...honestly? WE NEVER GET A GOOD ANSWER. The best I can get from the films is that Kylo Ren was manipulated by Snoke, who went on and on about how powerful Kylo was and how he should use that power to “bring order to the galaxy” and stuff like that, and then one night Luke held a lit lightsaber over his head for a minute. That justifies falling to the Dark Side and slaughtering all the wittle Jedi? No! And yet Kylo never once has to grapple with what he did -- he never has to make amends. He’s just forgiven, like that! And although Vader likewise never got the chance to make amends, his sacrifice means more than Kylo’s because Vader, through his sacrifice, finally learned the true meaning of love after an entire lifetime of knowing so little of it. The only people who had ever loved Anakin either died or left him -- Kylo always had people who were willing to forgive him, and he spat in their faces. Vader had no one, until his son discovered who he was and tried to reach out to him. And when he reached out, Vader didn’t stab him through the chest or immediately brand him with the murder of his evil master -- Vader followed orders and brought Luke before the Emperor, yes, but when Luke was about to die, Vader saved him.

Kylo Ren’s story could not and SHOULD NOT be Vader’s story, so giving him the same ending is completely unjustified and mismatched with the story being told. Even if the story of a girl and a guy saving each other with “the power of love” was somehow equal in emotional resonance to that of a son trying to reconnect with his father and his father sacrificing his life to save him, that story of a guy and a girl was not built up properly, as we never get much backstory about why Kylo fell, much action on his part to acknowledge his mistakes, or rationale for why we should care about him despite what a terrible person he was and still is. He cares about Rey -- great! Does he care about the Resistance? Leia? Luke? Han? Lando? Chewie? ANYBODY excluding himself and Rey? Han as a Force Ghost at one point suggests that Leia will never die as long as they remember what she stood for -- since when is that something KYLO REN ever cared about?! Leia DESPISED the Empire and Darth Vader, and yet Kylo Ren and the First Order have done nothing but wrap themselves up in their rhetoric and iconography!

On that note, though, I will acknowledge that Kylo Ren, as a character, has always given me certain troubling real-world-like vibes, and that may be part of the reason why it really infuriates me that the movie tried to redeem him. Kylo Ren is a privileged young man from a respected, powerful family who embraces and romanticizes the atrocities of a previous generation, resents others (rather appropriately, a young woman and black man with no greatness in their family names) for taking what should be “rightfully his,” and vows to bring things back to when that previous evil institution was in its full glory -- isn’t that exactly what modern alt-right Neo-Nazi types do? Romanticize the Third Reich and the Klan and wrap themselves up in their supposed “glory,” while being nothing but a pale, pathetic, anger-driven imitation? Even if you don’t personally see Kylo the same way I do, I hope you will at least respect that -- given this lens I see the character through -- it makes sense why I dislike any attempt to give this character sympathy.

+ *inhales heavily* ...Rey...is a Palpatine. *groans in aggravation* J.J., ARE YOU FUCKING SERIOUS? Did you not get why Rian Johnson made Rey’s backstory the way he did, or were you just so in-line with anti-TLJ fans that you wanted to spit in his face in film-form? I know a lot of people were pissed off when Rey was determined to be a “nobody” after what felt like hints of a more developed backstory in TFA, but I seriously can’t help but think that those people missed the point. Rey being a nobody and yet being talented in the Force fixed the whole problem brought up by the Midiclorians in the prequel trilogy -- namely, the thought that you can only be born special, because of your genes. With Rey not being a Kenobi, or a Skywalker, or a Palpatine, it says, “Yes -- you don’t need to have been born special. Anyone can tap into the Force, because it is everything, as are we.” This is even why it’s hinted in previous movies (and once or twice in this movie, though it doesn’t go anywhere) that Finn is Force-sensitive -- Finn, a ex-Stormtrooper! But by turning Rey into a Palpatine all along, J.J. has once again made the Force only something that a select few can tap into -- only special people can have the power needed to stand up to evil. Sure, ordinary people like Poe and Finn can blow things up, but only special people like the Skywalkers and the Palpatines can stop the Sith from destroying the entire rebellion. Instead of this being a story about a girl who had no legacy and yet earned the title of heir to the Skywalker legacy purely through her noble heart and selfless deeds, this became a story of two people -- one from a good family and one from an evil family -- having to come together to deal with their family drama and save the galaxy. Maybe some people wanted to see that from the start, but frankly I didn’t, and even if that story could’ve been told well, it was not the story that we were set up to watch, after we saw The Last Jedi. It also irritates me because of how much the film tries to play Rey’s parents SELLING HER ON JAKKU as them “saving her” from Palpatine. I call BULL. Even Luke was only “saved” from Vader by being given to relatives on a backwater planet -- Rey’s parents ABANDONED her. If you thought that Frozen 2 retconning Elsa and Anna’s parents’ attitudes toward Elsa’s magic was problematic, whoa, boy, have a gander at this. (I actually kind of like Agnarr and Iduna as individual characters in Frozen 2, but I actively have to distance Frozen from its sequel because of canon discrepancies like this.) Rey’s parents didn’t need to have a “good reason” for dropping her off on Jakku -- this film even acknowledges that Rey’s real family is the family she found: Finn, Poe, BB-8, Chewie, Leia, and the Resistance. Rey’s parents could’ve been assholes. Many people’s parents are assholes. Rey is not their child anymore: she is a Skywalker, and that’s all that matters.

+Oh yeah, and speaking of The Last Jedi, NOTHING matches up in this. J.J. literally wrote two complete movies and shoved them together in this one in a vain attempt to completely retcon the last film. Poe earning back his position in the rebellion after learning a lesson about not always barreling into danger without thinking? His character arc has vanished and he shows no more talent for strategy or leadership than he did before. Rey only seeing herself when she was looking for her family? Nope, turns out she was a Palpatine all along: the Force was just trolling her, I guess. Kylo accusing Rey of killing Snoke? Doesn’t come up at all. The young boy using the Force to pick up the broom? Never appears. The signal sent across the galaxy asking for help? Poe says half-way through the movie that nobody came, so it may as well have never happened. Rose and Finn? No mention of the kiss on Krait or anything -- they act like they barely know each other, and Rose has almost no screentime. Even Lando’s return, which should’ve been great, happens when he appears on this random India-like desert planet -- why was he there? Why does he no longer live in Cloud City? Wasn’t he its leader? Wouldn’t he have better fit in a planet like Canto Bight, one that was glitzy and kind of seedy, instead of a pastoral place like that? It’s like reading the first six books in the Harry Potter series, only to end on a version of Deathly Hallows where -- surprise! -- Hermione was actually a pureblood witch all along and she’s actually related to the Lestranges and also Hagrid pops up in Godric’s Hollow to save Hermione and Harry from Nagini for no reason at all, plus Ginny is just a side character now and the author seems to want you to think Harry likes Hermione even if Ron and Harry totally have more chemistry but NO HOMO YOU GUYS COME ON.

+Hahaha, on that note, WOW, have I never seen a film more desperate to try to prove to its audience that its two male main characters are not totally boyfriends. Even though J.J. decided to placate angry fanboys by rather unfairly marginalizing Rose Tico (come on, she may not have been written the best in Last Jedi, but you’re not going to fix that by IGNORING HER ALL TOGETHER), he still thought it best to introduce two new female characters, Zorii and Jannah, who both could’ve been very interesting if they’d had their proper amount of screentime and development, but instead only serve to be substitute “love interests” for Poe and Finn. That might sound harsh, but they literally have no other substantial relationships that get explored in this movie outside of the ones with their respective “guy.” It felt like the film was going, “Look -- Poe’s not gay! He’s got history with this chick, and he gives her a look at the end! And look -- Finn’s not gay! He might’ve been trying to confess his feelings to Rey which totally made his not-boyfriend uber jealous BUT THEY’RE NOT GAY YOU GAIS, and he’s doing stuff with this girl, who was also a Stormtrooper!” Sorry, film, but methinks you doth protest too much. (Even Poe’s actor Oscar Isaac apparently thinks so.)

+Another theme from The Last Jedi that I loved and J.J. clearly didn’t is that the dichotomy between “Jedi” and “Sith” doesn’t inherently equate “good” vs. “evil,” and therefore just because the Sith are evil, it doesn’t mean that the Jedi -- who preached detachment from all affectionate emotions and familial ties -- were right. Even the Resistance is flawed. It’s actually something the prequels and the Clone Wars TV show preach too, and it brings so much more grayness to the Star Wars mythos. In The Rise of Skywalker, however, the Jedi and the Resistance are just seen as the good guys, period, end of story. Who cares if it results in your story being shockingly simplistic and oddly shallow, when compared to the rest of the Star Wars universe?

+The treatment of the Stormtroopers in this movie was actually kind of infuriating. We consistently get reminders about how the First Order’s Stormtroopers were child soldiers who were stolen from their homes and brainwashed, as evident by both Finn and Jannah, and yet throughout the entire movie, they still get cut down in the hundreds without care. Even Finn -- an ex-Stormtrooper himself -- shoots them up like they’re NPCs in a video game! For a film trilogy that did something so powerful by showing the humanity underneath the white helmet, we sure got a film that didn’t give a shit about these people unless they had their helmets off.

+Speaking of the First Order, I saw the Hux-as-the-traitor “twist” coming and I hated finding out that I was right. Honestly it could’ve been played very interestingly if Hux maybe tried to overthrow Kylo and take over the First Order himself, therefore showing how Kylo’s fear-stoking and hatred don’t bring out any loyalty in his followers, but it only results in Hux immediately getting axed off and replaced with another First Order officer we’ve never seen in any of the previous films and therefore don’t care about. Why couldn’t we have reused D.J. the hacker from the previous movie as the spy, or better yet, have the “spy” actually be Kylo, leaking information that he thinks might coax Rey to the Dark Side? The last two films built Hux up as an interesting character, but he was tossed out even more unceremoniously than Commodore Norrington was in the Pirates films.

+This problem of “replacing one antagonist with another out of the blue” is replicated on a large scale with the return of Palpatine. This entire film series has been centered on Kylo Ren and the First Order, but all of a sudden, out of nowhere, we’re just expected to turn all of our focus onto Palpatine and the Knights of Ren, both of whom have had no bearing on the story previously. It could’ve been cool to learn more about the Knights of Ren, but we don’t learn anything about them -- we just see them suddenly being there, when they’d never been there previously. As for Palpatine...did we REALLY need him brought back? Really? The First Order was a threat because they’d wrapped themselves up in their romanticized, false view of the Empire -- that was a choice they made. It didn’t have to be because Palpatine was secretly alive all along and was pulling the strings -- people can do things of their own accord, without a grand, evil mastermind coming back from the dead out of nowhere. Kylo Ren finally got out from under Snoke’s shadow in The Last Jedi and I was so excited to see him come into his own as a villain, but instead all he did was skirt around the coat-tails of Palpatine the entire movie, and it was really disappointing. I WANTED a final confrontation between Kylo and Rey in the climax, like the films had been building up to -- instead all we got was a half-baked “redemption” for Kylo where he teams up with Rey to fight somebody else who just wandered into the story out of nowhere. Even Palpatine’s plot didn’t make any sense -- he tells Kylo for the first half of the movie that they need to kill Rey even though Kylo really wants her to turn to the Dark Side instead, only for Palpatine to (I guess) change his mind at the last minute when Rey arrives in his lair, and yet they play it off as him having planned for that to happen all along because he needs Rey to kill him so she can become one with him and all of the other Sith -- look, I know Palpatine’s whole characterization is hinged on him being a criminal mastermind, but all I want is some consistency! How are we supposed to know what the threat is if we don’t know what our villains want?

+“The Force” is used to rationalize a lot in this movie, from where Rey decides to walk to what plot devices our heroes will need later to why our characters do what they do. Even Finn, who in The Force Awakens accented that he made a choice to break away from the First Order because he saw what he was doing was wrong, now apparently believes that the Force decided that he should join up with Poe and Rey...and I just don’t like that, let alone buy it. The Force was never equivalent to “destiny” -- yes, Anakin was the Chosen One, but he only fulfilled it because the Jedi believed in it enough to train him and he fulfilled the prophecy in a way no one could’ve imagined...and even so, the Force doesn’t dictate everything. Everything is part of the Force, and the Force is part of everything -- but it shouldn’t just be a deus-ex-machina that moves the plot along or does whatever the author needs it to do. For instance, why can the Force suddenly heal wounds?? Since when is that something it can do?? If it could do that, and someone largely self-taught like Rey can do it, then why didn’t Jedi Master Anakin or Obi-Wan ever do that? Why didn’t Anakin use some of his life force to save his dying mother? Why didn’t he think to use it on Padme, or why didn’t Obi-Wan use it on Padme? Why didn’t Luke think to use it to save his father? The only reason why the Force can do that now is that the writers needed to justify why Kylo could give up his remaining life force for Rey, but in order to do that, they give the Force an ability it’s never had previously and doesn’t match up with the previous canon.

+If we’re talking about the Force, though, I have to write a separate bullet point accenting this -- WHY. DOESN’T. FINN. USE IT?? The film clearly likes the thought of Finn being Force-sensitive, but it’s too cowardly to just make Finn a Jedi. When Kylo and Rey were fighting over the ship, why didn’t Finn do something to help?? Why didn’t he blast Kylo or, more relevantly to this discussion, show off some of his latent Force talent by helping Rey yank the ship back? Why didn’t Finn use his Force ability to reach out to Rey while she was fighting Kylo, or fighting Palpatine? He could’ve been the one to wield Anakin’s lightsaber and fight side by side with Rey in that final battle, if Kylo had been the villain like he should’ve been. Maybe Finn confronts Commander Hux inside the command post while Rey’s fighting Kylo, and when Rey tries one last time to connect with the Jedi of the past, she’s able to connect to all of the Jedi, living or dead -- including Finn, as he also has been nurturing a talent in the Force! Through their new mental connection, Rey and Finn are able to help each other, while also being surrounded and spurred on by the corporeal, translucent spirits of Anakin, Obi-Wan, Yoda, Mace Windu, Ahsoka Tano, and the rest, all appearing and disappearing one after another around Finn and Rey as they fight. Poe should’ve been commanding the troops from above in Luke’s old X-Wing, it being the only ship he could get his hands on (because I’m sorry -- Han gave Rey the Falcon, she should be the one using it, yet this film just stubbornly kept her out of the driver’s seat for some reason), giving them all of the support he could from the air so that the rest of the First Order can’t interfere with the four-way duel between Finn, Rey, Kylo, and Hux. Maybe when the electricity in the ships gets messed up, Poe’s even able to remember something Rey or Finn told him to tap into the Force enough himself to keep himself airborne until he’s able to crash-land safely. While Hux and Kylo fight to destroy their opponents individually, each seeking glory and victory solely for themselves, Rey and Finn fight together as friends, taking lessons from the Jedi that are their mentors but also standing apart from them and being better than them.

+This movie really felt like two stories smashed together because there were way too many plot lines that were dropped like a hot potato not long after they were introduced. Finn having something to tell Rey? No conclusion. 3PO getting his memory wiped? Resolved quickly a few scenes later with little fall-out. Chewie supposedly getting killed? We find out within minutes that he survived. All of the new characters we meet, like Zorii and Jannah? They get one or two short scenes each where we barely get to know them at all. Even the India-inspired planet I mentioned earlier gets blown up because the First Order thinks it’ll upset the Rebellion and get them to come out of hiding, but...this film is the first time we’ve even seen this planet! We barely spent any time on it! This is really the obvious first choice of a planet whose destruction would upset the Rebellion? We don’t even know any of the characters who live on it personally! At least when Alderaan got blown up, Leia’s parents were on it, so we feel sad for Leia’s sake, but we haven’t built up any emotional investment in that planet that was just blown up.

+Along with this movie feeling like it had too much stuff in it, it also felt very, VERY long. The pacing was very bad, with there being no organic rise and fall to the action and the climax really just feeling like a bunch of plot turns stacked haphazardly on top of each other. When I came out of the theater, I even heard a little boy say to his dad, “That was really long,” and I had to agree with him. It’s not even that long compared to other Star Wars movies, but I just felt like I was being yanked around by the arm throughout the entire run-time, so rather than feeling invested in what was happening, I found myself tuning out and wanting the filmmakers to just get to a point.

Overall, I really don’t think I can recommend this movie. Every Star Wars fan should probably see it, and it’s possible that quite a few of you might get more out of it than me if you disliked The Last Jedi and want to see a movie that “sticks it” to that movie for whatever reason...but even if you do, surely you would agree that stories should not be written like this, where one part is completely invalidated by another and there’s no build-up for anything that happens? Stories should not be just something that you’re passively pulled through by the author -- they should engage you: make you feel for the characters, make you think about its themes, make you guess what might happen next. A story doesn’t mean less if you can make educated guesses about where the story might go if you see where it began -- it also doesn’t mean less if it subverts old literary or canon tropes. But this movie didn’t subvert anything -- instead it openly contradicted and retconned just about everything in the last movie, to the point that Rise of Skywalker clearly wanted to be two movies but didn’t have enough development or care put into it that could prompt a real emotional reaction from its audience. In short, it ended up being an overly complicated, watered-down retread of Return of the Jedi with none of the power in its supposedly “bittersweet” ending. The first two installments in this trilogy got me excited for a new take on Star Wars, to the extent that I for the first time actively looked into the fandom surrounding the films instead of just enjoying the films on my own. It’s therefore quite disappointing to me that the trilogy had to end on such a weak, petering note.

Overall Grade: D

#the rise of skywalker #star wars #star wars spoilers #spoilers #opinion #analysis #oh boy here i go #reviews #anti-reylo #anti-kylo ren

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fakeikemen · 4 years ago

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I know I am very late to the party but— I just absolutely love Zuko's redemption?! And the way it was handled by the narrative?! The fact that he is held accountable for his mistakes. That he is made to learn and grow from those mistakes. And that the guilt he feels because of his wrongdoings is what compels him to go out of his way to make it up to the people he has hurt. And that the narrative makes him make up for his mistakes in a very specific way to each character to address each of their personal grievances. It's just *chef's kiss*.

I have seen so many characters who exhibit shitty (sometimes even abusive) behaviour who are given a background of childhood abuse to justify their unacceptable behaviour. We are just supposed to accept the sad back story as an excuse for the character's actions and lo! Suddenly the narrative paints the character in a positive light, all the other characters forgive him without the said character working towards earning their forgiveness. But the fact that everyone is responsible for their own actions doesn't change.

Zuko is such a beautiful subversion of this trope.

From the beginning, the show portrays Zuko very carefully, showing us that even if he is mean and rude and occasionally does bad things™, his heart is definitely in the right place and that at his core, he is a good person.

And yet no one absolves him of his actions. Not the narrative, not any of the other characters and definitely not Zuko himself.

After his first confrontation with the Gaang in B3 Ep13 "The Western Air Temple", where Zuko fails to make a fair argument for himself, everybody rejects him and turns him away. Disheartened, Zuko leaves without arguing any further.

The one exception to the hostile warding off is Toph; who doesn't have any bad experiences with Zuko or personal grievances against him. Her first introduction to Zuko via Iroh's description of him, paints him in a positive light. Further, he seems to be someone who is like her if she goes by what Iroh says.

Once her lie detection skills let her know that Zuko is being sincere, she pretty much backs off:

So naturally Toph tries to reason with the rest of the Gaang:

Katara: And what was all that crazy stuff about setting Appa free? What a liar!

Toph: Actually, he wasn't lying.

Sokka: [Sarcastically.] Oh, hooray! In a lifetime of evil, at least he didn't add animal cruelty to the list.

Toph: I'm just saying that, considering his messed-up family and how he was raised, he could have turned out a lot worse.

Katara: [Sarcastically.] You're right, Toph! Let's go find him and give him a medal. The "not as much of a jerk as you could have been" award!

Toph: All I know is that while he was talking to us, he was sincere. Maybe you're all just letting your hurt feelings keep you from thinking clearly.

Katara: Easy for you to say! You weren't there when he had us attacked by pirates!

Sokka: Or when he burned down Kyoshi Island!

Aang: Or when he tried to capture me at the Fire Temple!

Once again, the narrative makes sure that "Not as much of a jerk as you could have been" is simply not an excuse for the hurtful actions and choices that have been made.

This conversation also focuses on what each of the character's personal grievances from the war are and how Zuko had triggered them by doing something similar. (In addition to Sokka talking about Zuko attacking the Water Tribe and Katara talking about the necklace incident— although the Pirates and the necklace incidents are actually combined.)

The first thing that Zuko does is, stand up to Combustion Man (even if the whole Combustion Man plot is contrived bullshit, that makes no sense, atleast it is properly used as a step of Zuko making amends with the Gaang).

After which the Gaang is willing to listen to what he has to say, so he says:

Zuko: Listen, I know I didn't explain myself very well yesterday, I've been through a lot in the last few years, and it's been hard. But I'm realizing that I had to go through all those things to learn the truth. I thought I had lost my honor, and that somehow my father could return it to me. But I know now that no one can give you your honor. It's something you earn for yourself, by choosing to do what's right. All I want to do now is play my part in ending this war, and I know my destiny is to help you restore balance to the world.

He doesn't try to play the "I was having a really hard time and I wasn't really myself so I did some bad things" card. He never does even as the story progresses.

He accepts that his mistakes made him grow and learn in a way that wouldn't have been otherwise possible but he knows that his choices have hurt people nonetheless. And he takes full responsibility for it.

The Gaang accepts him just as the Firebending master that Aang needs. And while it does look like Aang has forgiven him; the rest of the Gaang are sceptical about him and rightfully so.

And then we get a series of episodes where Zuko— a previous representative of the Fire Nation to these kids, helps these kids to deal with the trauma that was caused by the Fire Nation.

To Aang, becoming a firebender is a dreaded duty looming on the horizon in the near future due to his own personal history of trauma with the element. Aang, whose entire race had been wiped out when the Fire Nation had been at its strongest, whose first experience with fire ended with him burning his friend.

Zuko takes Aang on a trip that results in both of them learning the actual meaning of Firebending. That fire isn't just a representative of death and destruction. That it is life and creation too.

Aang returns with his fear of fire absolved, with a new vision of fire as an element and his bond with Zuko cemented into a strong friendship.

Then there's Sokka, who has lost his mother to the violence of the war. And soon after his father left to fight in the war. It is pretty evident that for Sokka, his father's absence plagues him more. His coping mechanism has made him supress memories of Kya to replace them with memories of Katara instead. But his coping mechanism can't do the same for Hakoda because filling the hole that Hakoda left was Sokka's responsibility.

Other than this, Sokka, whose cultural upbringing taught him that his primary duty was to protect the women in his life, feels like a failure for never being able to protect them from the war. While Katara needs no protection after her training under Pakku, he still strives his best to help Katara when she needs it. But he couldn't do the same for Kya, Yue and Suki (because he knew she was imprisoned and was counting on him to free her but there was nothing he could do about it). This issue is far less acknowledged by Sokka himself.

So, Sokka wants to embark on a solo journey to rescue Hakoda from the prison. He doesn't want to take Katara or anybody else along because of the huge risk it entails.

But Zuko willingly decides to go with him. They make it back together with not only Hakoda but Suki as well. This time, Sokka not only manages to bring his father back from the clutches of the war, he also doesn't fail the woman he wants to protect in the hour of her need.

And he was able to successfully do so because Zuko stood by him as his ride-or-die and selflessly helped him. This allowed Sokka to let go of his scepticism and accept Zuko as a trustworthy friend.

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