#i need cheerin up

[cheapshrimpysheep]

Dating in a Dream - Epel Felmier

SUMMARY: What would his dream be like, exactly the same as in the original story, but with the small detail that he is dreaming that that you two are dating?

CHARACTERS: Epel Felmier x Reader 🍎🦐

TAGS: Fluff; GN Reader; In a Relationship (kinda)

WARNING: Spoilers from Book 7 and Epel’s dream (Eng Server)

WORD COUNT: 1.530 words

COMMENTS: As English is not my first language I asked Gemini for help with Epel's dialect/accent. This was written as a companion piece to the original dream story, so the parts that are the same as the game are just summarized.

I hope you enjoy 🍎

Dating in a Dream: (Epel) / Rook / Vil / …

“Aether signal tracking successful.” Ortho says when you land in the new dream, along with Grim, Silver and Sebek. “We have arrived at the designated coordinates.”

You're on Main Street, looking around and trying to figure out whose dream it is. That's when you hear abnormally heavy footsteps running and getting closer. You look and see an Epel's head in a body that looks more like Jack's, which made it all the more strange, uncanny, and almost hilarious.

You hear him saying something about being late and that's why he doesn't see your group. Grim was the one who had to shout to get Epel's attention.

“Ah, Grim! (Y/N)! Good morning! And behind you, Ah see... Ortho and some Diasomnia fellas Ah don't hardly know. Ah don't get why y'all're glowerin'.”

“Cease your incessant mumbling!” Sebek says.

“Huh? Ah was just... Ain't you Sebek from Class D? What's yer problem? Y'wanna start somethin' with me, huh?”

Epel approaches Sebek as if he were ready to start a fight, that's when you put yourself between the two of them to ask Epel to wait and say that there's no need for that.

“Oh, they’re yer friends? Sorry babe.”

“W-what did he call (Y/N)?” Grim asked with wide eyes, the same expression as everyone else.

“Hey, since you're here... Ah was goin’ to ma Spelldrive practice. Don't you have cheerleadin' practice too? You always practice with us.”

“C-cheerleading?” You ask.

“Yeah. You probly forgot ‘cause you're always so busy. If you're free, come with me. Ah always play better with you cheerin’ me on.” He smirks at you. “And Ah know how you love seein’ yer boyfriend win another game.”

“BOYFRIEND?!” Everyone said in unison.

“Oh boy.” Idia's voice says through the tablet. “Dude is dreaming that he's some sports team captain who's dating the head cheerleader. So cliché. What did I tell you about his imagination being weak?”

“Epel Felmier. May I make you a few questions?” Ortho asks and Epel agrees. “From what I understand, you and (Y/N) are dating, correct?”

“Ya bet we are!” Epel confirms with a huge smile. “Ain't they just as kind as can be, and as pretty as a picture?” He grabs you by the waist to pull you against him. “Shoot, Ah must be the luckiest guy aroun’!”

“Aww, so sweet.” Idia says. “If I get diabetes after this I'll be sending this guy the bill for my medication.”

“You two really make a very cute couple.” Ortho says to Epel. You didn't know if he was being sincere or sarcastic just to keep the conversation going. “When did you two start dating?”

“Lesse... When was it again? It was after I gained muscle and get this tall. And that was... Uhh... When WAS it? ... Hrk! Mah head... It hurts!”

The dream begins to distort, but when you think Epel is about to wake up, Vil and Rook appear, darkness versions of them.

“I believe it was near the end of winter break when your height surpassed mine, Eple.” Darkness Vil says.

“Oui. And you two started your love affair in the spring.” Darkness Rook complements. “Tellement romantique!”

“Really?” Idia complained again. “You start dating in the spring? How predictable. Were the birds also singing their hearts out when (Y/N) said 'Of course I want to date you, silly' ?”

“Epel.” Darkness Vil speaks again. “You left the dorm rather early today, so why are you standing around shooting the breeze?”

“Ah was on mah way to mornin’ practice when Ah ran into (Y/N) and these other folks...”

“Conversing with friends is indeed a valuable thing, but are you not the Spelldrive club most promising rookie?” Darkness Rook says. “I hear as much all the time from Leona.”

The two darkness figures with the appearance of Vil and Rook continue talking about how Eple is strong and such a talented player that the students of Savanaclaw would like him to ask to transfer to their dorm, but Vil would never allow it because he doesn't want to lose a student like Epel.

“That’s enough idle chitchat.” Darkness Vil says. “Off with you, now, get to your club.”

“Yessir. You coming with me (Y/N)?”

“NO!” You say. “This is not you Epel! You're not this tall, muscular guy. You are a boy with a cute and delicate appearance but a will of steel. We may have never started dating, but the truth is... I like you too Epel. I really do. But not this you, the real you. The Epel who said in SDC that he was going to maximize his weapon and beat Neige with his charm! Did you forget?”

“Epel. Cease listening to those spudlings.” Darkness Vil warns him.

“Yes, indeed. You will never go wrong by heeding Vil, Epel!” Darkness Rook encourages.

“You were finally accepting yourself.” You continue “Finally seeing yourself the way I see you. You were so cool! I was so proud of you!”

The dream world distorts again until Epel breaks and awakens. His body returned to normal, and he was wearing his dorm uniform.

“How could I have forgotten?” Epel says with tears in the corners of his eyes. “I was going to accept the strength only I had, a strength like that poison apple... I swore it that day!”

You feel so happy to see him return to the Epel you know that you can't contain the urge to hug him. He stays still for a second because of the surprise, but right after you feel him returning the hug with affection.

“Oh dear, Epel...” Darkness Vil says horrified. “You look so frail now.”

“Misérables! Your physique towered as high as the Seven jeweled Hills themselves. Where has it gone?”

“You poor thing. That dirty spud have cursed you with a pitiful form. You certainly deserve someone better than them. Come to me instead. I'll restore your brawny beauty.”

“Yes, Vil, that's a marvelous idea! Come, Epel. Join us.”

Epel is silent for a moment. To then tell them that the Rook and Vil he knows would never say those things. And that he would be lying if he said that he didn't wish he could be big and brawny.

“But the strength I want... The brawn I want... The beauty I want... The love I want... That's for ME to decide, and for ME to claim myself! And one more thing... You insult (Y/N) again, and me punchin' yer fake face'll be the least of yer worries, I guarantee it!”

Darkness Vil and Rook tried to convince Epel to choose the dream over reality, but this only angered him even more and made him and the others attack the darkness figures. Epel finishes the fight by using his signature spell on the fake Vil and Rook.

“Hey, Epel! You finally awake?” Grim asks.

“Yeah, my head's clear now. I must've looked like a real doof to you guys, huh?”

They chit chat a little about Epel showing how strong he is for being able to overcome the darkness. Until Grim speaks again to caught Epel's attention with a serious expression and crossed paws.

“Enough chit chat. Epel, I need to sort somethin’ out with you.” Epel looks at Grim puzzledly and Grim points at him with a cute, threatening finger. “What are your intentions with my hench-human?”

Epel practically jumps in place with a panicked expression and flushed cheeks. He opens his mouth to say something, or at least try, but he can barely say a word without stuttering.

“If you need, I can play the audios of what you said so you remember what you could explain first.” Ortho suggests with a look of someone who smiles mischievously.

“NO! REALLY DON’T DO IT!” Epel begs. “Can we just forget about that for now and focus on the real issue here? I don’t even know what's going on. What was up with the fake Vil and Rook? What’s happening?!”

They show the explanatory video to Epel, explain the plan and that he should go with them to the next dream as they would go to another Pomefiore student's dream. He agrees and Ortho creates a dummy version of tall and brawny Epel to stay in that dream so as not to alert Malleus.

“Eugh! Now that I'm looking at it again... How in tarnation did Ah ever think Ah looked cool?!”

“Indeed.” You say. “The real you is so much better.”

He looks at you surprised and flattered.

“R-really?... Huh... hey... sorry about... huh...”

“I like you too, Epel.” You admit.

“You... WHAT?!”

You tell him that the feeling is mutual and everything you like about him. You also talk about how you prefer the real him, rather than that... weird version of him.

“You know, I could cheer for you in a game or two if you want.” You tease him.

“I’m... not gonna lie, I would love that.” He smiles, cutely and excited. He then gains the courage to hug you and kiss you on the cheek.

“PDA Alert!” Idia's voice is heard through the table.

Epel immediately moves away from you, embarrassed for having done it in front of the others.

If you would like to read more from me, you can find it in my pinned post: INDEX

[astrae4]

HAN TAESAN | happy wife, happy life

pairings — idol!han dongmin x idol!reader

warnings — hanging joke, saying marriage but not actually married yet(?)

genre — FLUFF & romance hehe (wc. 789)

note — mentally not the best so im rlly inconsistent but it’s okay for now guys 😎👍 if u have any requests i’d be very happy to make it for u 😘😘 plspls like repost n follow 🙌

more works — navigation | bnd!masterlist

DING! DING! DING!

The buzzing notification sounds echoed loudly in a busy cafe, making some customers look at the victim responsible for these noises.

Said victim hurries to turn their notification sounds off, before checking his messages—only to see 6 missed calls and 14 messages from ‘manager 😫🔥’.

manager 😫🔥: WHERE ARE YOU???

manager 😫🔥: WE’RE THREE HOURS LATE ALREADY!!!!

you: im On the Way!

you: gimme a bit

manager 😫🔥: dont lie. I literally see your location and it isn’t moving AT ALL.

you: okay im actually almost done.

you: seriously, the line’s almost over

you: [picture attached]

manager 😫🔥: fine. Come back faster! We need to hurry up to isac bc u guys already missed the track comp.

you: 👍👍

“Order 1140, Mr. Woonhak!” Called a server.

Nobody reacted to that call for a few seconds, before the 180-ish-cm man jolted, remembering that he was supposedly Woonhak.

(Ever put a name in your order and forgot about it? Yeah, it happens to me all the time.)

“Here!” He replied, coming to the counter in a hurry.

“Matcha cake with pink frosting and custom lettering?” They asked to be sure.

“Yes, thank you so much!” Replied “Mr. Woonhak” as he takes the takeaway-boxed cake and hurried out the door.

He practically jumped in the car (gracefully though) with how fast he was going.

“Yah!” shouted Woonhak, “why’d you take so long!?”

“Don’t you see the line?” Replied Taesan, his eye rolling as he holds the cake with care.

“Yeah but why do we have to go get this cake? Just get it at any other bakery so we wouldn’t be late to ISAC—we already missed the track race!”

Someone (Leehan) suddenly sat up from the backseat, glasses crooked on his head as if he just woke up (he did), “That’s because it’s y/n’s favorite cake.”

“Yeah Woonhak,” butted another menace (jaehyun), “It’s their 2nd anniversary— but of course youuuu wouldn’t understand since you’ve never had a woman’s touch before other than your mom and sister.”

“YAH!” screamed Woonhak.

Thus, another bonekdo quarrel emerge.

(Woonhak lost once again. Give me a dab in the comments; one dab = one hp for our maknae’s patience)

EXCLUSIVE: BOYNEXTDOOR’S TAESAN MISTAKES ISAC FOR WE GOT MARRIED?

In the ISAC 2024, k-pop boy band BOYNEXTDOOR (under KOZ) arrives 5 hours late to the venue, earning some attention from netizens. Onedoors (Boynextdoor’s fans) called them hilarious, especially with that spectacular entrance, consisting of the members wearing sunglasses and strutting in the building as if they won the games (they will then lose really badly in archery) in a proud manner.

Despite the many games and groups competing in the games, what went most viral was surprisingly not sports-related, and we’re here to tell you the scoop!

Boynextdoor’s Taesan is widely known for dating [reader] of [group name] since the very beginning of their debuts. They also went trending many times for that—like a fresh breeze in the very tense atmosphere of idol-relationships. This time, it seems that Taesan decided to take it up a notch with his display of public affection and prove to everyone that romance is very much not dead!

Running in the building—and then sliding on his knees to stop in front of [reader]’s view—before procuring a bouquet of pink lilies for her all the while his very supportive members threw confetti at them!? Gosh, me when! After that, he also gave [reader] an exclusive cake from [reader’s favorite cake shop] to celebrate what seemed to be their 2nd year Anniversary.

Other idols in the building such as ZEROBASEONE and THE BOYZ’s Younghoon gave their support by cheering on the couple—as well as many others. Later on, it was even said by Zerobaseone’s Gunwook jokingly in his group’s vlog that he was jealous of their relationship, haha!

When asked about it later on in a live, Taesan responded that it was simply because it was their anniversary, and he wanted to make it special for them. In addition, he said a catchphrase that went viral— saying “Happy wife, happy life”, despite them not being married yet. [reader’s group] have not yet responded to this statement.

Many netizens are reacting to this viral video, saying that it’s so fresh and sweet of them two—some even joking and saying that “I’m the guy h*nging in the lights behind them” (source) in Tiktok and Instagram. All in all, netizens seem to think that it’s extremely sweet and wishes them both to remain happy and strong in the relationship!

What do you think about it?

Comments (19.99) | open

More related searches… BOYNEXTDOOR comeback September 25 | Sungho’s so hot in the new concept photo: twenty ver.

TAGLIST @ja4hyvn @flwoie @sulkygyu @xiaoderrrr @ineedaherosavemeenow @lonewolfjinji @teddywonss @taerae-verse

NETWORKS @onedoornet @k-labels

© astrae4 2024 | please don’t copy, translate, or plagiarize my works on all platforms!

[ba9go]

being miya atsumu’s no. 1 cheerleader

miya atsumu does not need a fanclub when he has you.

miya atsumu x fem!reader; pre-game shenanigans means holding atsumu’s hand when he has to lock in and also flirting with him to rile him up on the bus ride!

both my exes are volleyball players and let me tell u these volleyball men walk around carrying such huge egos but at the end of the day, they still fall at ur feet when u say the simplest things to them… so cute lol i wanna step on them

the miya atsumu fanclub is notorious for being loud and utterly obsessed with the inarizaki setter.

it was a little funny at first, hearing their poorly-concealed squeals whenever he stepped onto the court. but damn, did it get annoying real quick.

on the bus ride, atsumu seems calm. he’s holding your hand, and he has his earphones in, even though you know he’s not actually listening to anything. he’s so uncharacteristically quiet during the 30-minute drive to the stadium, it’s almost scary, but you know it’s because there’s only one thing in his mind right now.

winning.

atsumu sits facing towards the window, but you know he isn’t looking at the blur of scenery and cars driving past. no, atsumu is focused right now. he’s in his head, thinking about the game, from the very moment he steps onto the court to when he’s finally leaving the stadium with yet another win.

the bus pulls into the parking lot and already, there’s a horde of fangirls crowding outside the stadium entrance, ready to ask for signatures and selfies.

atsumu finally tears his gaze from the window with a harsh click of his tongue, and you can’t help but laugh at his antics.

“i hate mosquito season,” atsumu says through gritted teeth, crossing his arms like a petulant child, and you know he’s not talking about insects. “i can’t stand em, seriously! these pests.”

"don’t be like that,” you scold lightly, patting his thigh twice. “be nice to your supporters.”

“but they’re so annoyin’! even as supporters, it’s like they’re cheerin’ jus’ to throw me off ma game!” atsumu pouts, and there it is, your chance to butter him up and really rile him up for the game.

“nothing can throw you off your game, ‘tsumu,” you say sweetly, reaching up to cup his face in one hand. atsumu leans into your touch immediately. “you’re better than that.”

“yer right,” atsumu smirks, placing his hand over yours to guide it to the back of his neck for you to comb your fingers through his hair. “‘sides, s’hard to pay them any attention when yer here, doll.”

“yeah? you like it when i watch you play, ‘tsumu?” you tug a little at atsumu’s hair, just the way he likes it, and it has him leaning forward until his head is resting on your shoulder and his face is pressed into your shirt.

“i love it. yer my lucky charm, babe. my darlin’ cheerleader. don’t need any of those pigs squealin’ f’me when i got my pretty girl ta support me.”

“i can never take my eyes off you, atsumu,” you murmur softly, and you mean it. atsumu always looks so good on court, doing what he loves most. he carries his passion for volleyball everywhere with him, but the court is where it truly shines through, where his hard work finally pays off.

atsumu’s a proud guy, with an ego bigger than most, and yet he melts at your words and keens at your touch.

“ya mean it?” atsumu tilts his head to the side to look at you, and you grin.

“you don’t believe me?” you ask, and atsumu grins and shrugs. “hmm, how about this. i’ll help coach take down team stats* today. i’ll give you a kiss for every service ace today.”

"god, yer the best. yer comin’ ta all my games from now on.”

“you’ll lose your fangirls, y’know,” you say, half-jokingly.

“don’t need em,” atsumu says, completely serious. he grins wildly at you. “yer all i need.”

atsumu had no shame breaking the hearts of his fangirls walking into the stadium with your hand in his, but the cherry on top was definitely the way he pointed at you before every serve. (he got 16 service aces that match.)

i miss volleyball… i miss competition szn… siiiiiigh

*team stats r like a lil sheet of paper for the coach to take down n keep track of every player’s performance in a match. points scored, mistakes, for spiking, receiving, setting, blocking, all that stuff. my ex used to come to my games and help me take down stats for me (and my whole team) so we could review my games tgt

[ryebread0605]

I love your work! May I request Epel Felmier x female reader? He has never met or talked to her before. She always comes to his spelldrive games and watches him practice. The only reason she never approached him is because she is shy and has a crush on him. Please make it super fluffly❣️☺️

Thank you so much for supporting my work!

As you requested fluff I didn’t know if you also wanted nsfw stuff so I added a warning before it! Hope you enjoy!!!

Also, reminder my asks are always open so feel free to drop a request!

Seated in the stands once again, you couldn’t help the smile that came on your face as you watched him work so hard. The way the sun shone on him, highlighting the determination in his eyes, it just made you swoon more. To you, everything about him was perfect. He was smart, kind, courageous, and damn good looking. Countless days you had spent fantasizing about being able to just talk to the purple haired boy.

But that would never happen.

You had tried before, multiple times, but just couldn’t bring yourself to even start a conversation with him. I mean, he was so perfect! How would he ever want to talk to you? He was everything you weren’t, and it frustrated you as well as made you feel worse.

That was, until he approached you after one of his games.

“Hey, (name) right? I always see you cheerin us on in the stands!” Your face was deep red as Epel approached, that stupidly cute smile on his face with his hair still tied back from the game. You couldn’t bring yourself to speak, only shyly nodding in response as he grew closer,

“Hey so.. I know this may be out of nowhere but I was wondering if you wanted to come with me apple picking? Vil’s taking all of us from pomefiore and we’re allowed to bring one other person.” Your eyes widened in surprise, was he really asking you to go with him?! From the small laugh falling from his lips, it appeared that shock was much more visible than you meant it to be.

“Yer so darn cute when ya get all shocked! Er- I mean- ahem.. you look very cute when you are surprised!” He looked away with a slight pink on his cheeks as his accent slipped out once again. Your soft voice broke him out of his thoughts,

“Y-you don’t need to hide your real voice… I-it’s.. nice” the smile on his face made you subconsciously smile as well. A small squeak left your lips as he hugged you tight,

“You truly are the sweetest.. Vil better watch out, I think you’re actually the fairest of them all”. With a wink, he pressed a small kiss to your cheek. Your smile only grew, was this truly happening?! 

“I’ll see you in a few days”

True to his word, a few days later he met up with you outside the school. The two of you chatted happily as you walked side by side to the apple orchard, hands brushing each others from time to time and smiles on your faces. You felt your heart pounding in your chest as you finally took the chance to interlock your fingers with his, a shocked look appeared on his face for a fraction of a second before switching to a wide smile as he happily held your hand in his.

Once you two had gotten to the orchard, its vastness almost intimidated you until Epel reassured you that he had plenty of experience with orchards and wouldn’t leave your side. You felt so safe with him, so cared about, as the two of you took two baskets from Vil and began your journey picking the fresh fruit. The entire time, you two kept joking and laughing, his actions slowly growing more and more intimate as he went from hand holding to holding you closer with a hand on your waist to slowly running his hand down your sides.

You truly believed today could not get any better.

(Smut starts here!)

Only an hour later, you found yourself corrected as your shaking legs struggled to hold up your body. Your hands pressed against a tree far away from any prying eyes as Epel rutted into your sopping cunt at a gentle yet quick pace.

“You look so gorgeous like this, drooling from my cock. God I love the way your cunt just pulls me back in~” the soft yet slightly degrading words only made your mind fuzzier as you felt all thoughts you once had get fucked out of you. It felt so good the way he hit all the spots that even you yourself didn’t know set off pleasure within you.

“Cmon sweet girl, lemme hear how good I’m making you feel~” his hips moved faster as his thrusts became more sporadic, your moans echoing through the orchard as your back arched. With each thrust, your chest bounced in Epel’s hands as he groped at the soft flesh. 

“F-fuck Epel I’m gonna-!” A loud moan tore from your throat as your orgasm hit you hard, Epel not stopping his rapid pace until suddenly stilling and filling you up with warm cum. As he pulled out, leaving both of you panting, you took the opportunity to lock lips with him and begin to make out again. 

Guiding him to the ground, you slowly lined his dick up and lowered yourself down, bouncing on his juicy cock like an absolute whore. You just couldn’t have enough, the feeling was absolutely amazing and you never wanted it to stop.

The shy girl you once were was no more as you were reduced to a cockdrunk slut for your now boyfriend.

[wolvietxt]

any maybe this one for Daryl too if you have the time… 👀 I love the way you write the softer side of Daryl 🥺

unexpected laughter: grumpy is having a rough day, but sunshine tells a ridiculous joke or does something silly, and to everyone’s surprise, grumpy actually laughs - loud and genuine - despite trying to stay serious

DARYL was having one of those days. everything seemed to grate on his nerves - from the way the sun beat down too hot overhead to the way everyone seemed intent on being in his space.  

he’d spent the entire morning repairing a busted cart wheel, only to find out the axle was cracked too. by noon, he’d snapped at carol for hovering, glared at rick for asking too many questions, and muttered curses under his breath when judith toddled too close and almost stepped on his tools.  

and then there was you. you’d been hovering too, always trying to help, trying to cheer him up.  

“you want water?” you’d asked earlier, your voice all chipper and light.  

“don’t need nothin’,” he’d grumbled, not even looking up.  

you weren’t fazed, though. you rarely were when it came to him, which was both impressive and mildly infuriating. you had this way of brushing off his mood like it was nothing, sticking around no matter how hard he tried to push you off.  

so when you wandered into the yard again after lunch, daryl let out a low groan. he didn’t even look up as you plopped down on the bench next to his tools.  

“you’re still mad at the world, huh?” you teased, leaning forward to rest your elbows on your knees.  

“ain’t mad,” he muttered, jamming the wrench onto the axle with more force than necessary.  

“you sure? ‘cause you’ve been growling at everyone like a rabid dog since breakfast.”  

he shot you a glare, but you just smiled sweetly, like his bad mood wasn’t even a blip on your radar.  

“what do you want?” he grunted, returning to his work.  

“nothing. just thought you might need a little cheering up.”  

he let out a short, humorless laugh. “don’t need cheerin’.”  

“oh, i beg to differ,” you replied, your tone light. “you’ve got that permanent scowl thing going on. you’re like a storm cloud in human form.”  

he didn’t respond, too focused on the stubborn bolt that wouldn’t budge. you watched him for a few moments, your head tilted as if you were sizing him up.  

then, out of nowhere, you asked, “hey, daryl, what do you call a deer with no eyes?”  

he froze, his brow furrowing as he glanced at you out of the corner of his eye. “what?”  

you grinned, your eyes sparkling with mischief. “no-eye-deer!”  

his jaw tightened, and he looked back at the cart like he hadn’t even heard you.  

undeterred, you leaned a little closer. “okay, okay, i got another one. what do you call a deer with no eyes and no legs?”  

“don’t care,” he muttered, but you were already finishing the joke.  

“still no-eye-deer!” you exclaimed, clapping your hands together like it was the funniest thing in the world.  

this time, his shoulders tensed, and for a second, you thought he might actually snap. instead, he just shook his head and muttered, “you’re impossible.”  

you pouted dramatically. “c’mon, daryl, that was a good one!”  

he grunted, but you weren’t done yet. you tapped your chin like you were deep in thought, then brightened as if you’d just remembered something brilliant.  

“oh! what do you call a fake noodle?”  

he sighed loudly, wrench still in hand. “don’t.”  

“an impasta!”  

that was it. something in him snapped - not in anger, but in disbelief. he let out a short, bark-like laugh before he could stop himself, quickly clamping his mouth shut as if he could take it back.  

your jaw dropped, and you pointed at him triumphantly. “i knew it! i made you laugh!”  

“did not,” he muttered, his ears turning pink as he went back to the cart.  

“did too,” you shot back, grinning from ear to ear. “you laughed. loud and everything.”  

he shook his head, but you could see the corners of his mouth twitching, like he was fighting to keep the grin off his face. “you’re an idiot.”  

“maybe,” you said with a shrug, “but i made the grumpiest man alive laugh, so i’ll take it.”  

he finally looked at you then, his expression softening despite the lingering frustration in his eyes. “you’re somethin’ else, y’know that?”  

“i’ll take that as a compliment,” you replied, your smile unwavering.  

he shook his head again, but this time it was more in amusement than annoyance. “get outta here before you break somethin’.”  

“fine,” you said, standing up and brushing off your pants. “but just so you know, i’ve got plenty more where that came from.”  

“god help me,” he muttered, but the faintest hint of a smirk tugged at his lips as you walked away.  

and for the rest of the day, every time he thought about that ridiculous joke, he couldn’t help the small, genuine smile that crept across his face.

ᰔ daryl dixon : @v3lv3tf0x, @dugiioh, @whxtewolf, @lemoanaid, @sunnykittyzz

@california-boys-and-sun, @cable-kenobi, @omen-keke, @hhiggs, @iheartpeterparker3000

@withasideofmeg, @corvuscattus

taglist form linked in pinned post :3

[wcbblife]

can you take a request for Kate Martin (or Paige B.) x reader when KM/PB is stress for a upcoming game and she yells at the reader out of frustration but make it up to the reader after?

Hurt/comfort

Take your time and take care 💐✨️❤️

Back to us

a/n: sorry for the delay. the story isn't long. something short and sweet.

warning(s): Paige and reader have a fight.

Time Skip: Second Round of the NCAA Championship 2024-2025 Season

Having to be the heart of her team sometimes proved to be quite challenging for Paige. It had gotten easier to handle with the pressure over time, but the nausea that settled in her chest never seemed to leave her any space for peace whenever big games came around. She had gotten better at hiding how much it affected her, but the one person that she couldn't fool was you.

You walked through the endless maze of hallways in the stadium, trying to find the blonde. Geno had asked you to go about and search for her, finding it unacceptable that she was running late to warmups. After a bit of searching, you knew to look in a particular locker room, knowing that Paige found its silence a bit peaceful.

You find Paige in the empty room, her back turned to you as she stares intently at a locker right in front of her. She seems tense, her shoulders rigid, knees bouncing up and down.

Sensing something is obviously wrong, you decide to approach her. "Paige, are you okay?" you ask gently, trying to break through her concentration.

She doesn't turn to face you, her voice tight with frustration. "Yeah, just… trying to get my head in the game.”

You take a step closer, concern etched on your face. "You've been… really stressed lately. I just wanted to check on you. Maybe we could talk about what's bothering you before you go out?"

Paige finally turns to you, her eyes flashing with irritation. "There's nothing to talk about. I just need to focus. If I lose here, that’s it.”

You sigh, not wanting to back down. "Paige, bottling it all up isn't helping you. Clearly. You can talk to me. I want to be here for you." It wasn’t meant to be anything bad, you just wanted to ease her nerves before such a big game like this. Her last game at Uconn.

She shakes her head, turning back to her locker. "I don't need this right now. I need to concentrate."

"Paige," you insist, walking even closer, "I'm just saying that—"

“Gosh, just leave me the fuck alone!” Paige suddenly slams her palm against the locker, causing a loud bang to echo through the room. You flinch, staggering back as she whirls around to face you, her eyes wide with frustration. “I’m about to have one of the most important games of my life, and you’re on my ass about everything!”

You take a deep breath, trying to steady yourself, feeling a lump starting to form on your throat. “Paige, I’m not trying to make things harder for you. I just wanted to help. Calm down and breathe—”

She backs away, still fuming. "You think a deep breath is going to fix everything? I need to be perfect, and I can't do that if I'm stressed the fuck out. Sometimes, it feels like you're just another thing I have to manage!" Tears start to well up in your eyes as her words cut unexpectedly deep. You try to blink them away before they fall, but Paige scoffs when she notices. "Great, now you're crying? I really don't have time for this."

You take a shaky breath, your voice barely above a whisper. “You’re a fucking asshole. I was just trying to help you.”

There's a flicker of something in her gaze—regret, perhaps—but she quickly looks away. "I can't deal with this right now. I can't deal with you crying and making me feel worse."

You shake your head, tears dinally streaming down your face. "Maybe I should just leave then."

Paige doesn't respond immediately, her jaw clenched as she struggles with her emotions. Finally, she lets out a frustrated sigh, her voice low and strained. "Maybe you should."

You turn your back towards her as you choke out, “Good luck, Paige.”

The arena had emptied, the echo of cheering fans replaced by the muffled sounds of the cleaning crew. Paige sat on the bench, staring at her phone, hoping for a text from you. She had been on edge all night, and her outburst before the game was finally replaying in her mind, torturing her as she tried to get by the questions the media had for her. The tension in her muscles had dissipated, replaced by a gnawing guilt.

She checked her phone again. No messages. No calls.

Paige headed to the locker room. As she passed by the seats, she realized the usual spot you sit at was empty. Her heart sank. You hadn’t even stayed for the game.

“Of course she didn’t you idiot.” Paige massaged her temples, whispering to herself.

Without bothering to change out of her jersey, Paige grabbed her bag and rushed to the dorms. Her steps quickened with each stride, eager to just see you.

Paige knocked on your door, her heart nearly pounding out of her chest.

When the door creaked open, she was met with a pair of tired, hurt eyes. You looked at her, then turned away, walking back into the room without a word. Paige followed, closing the door softly behind her.

“Hey,” Paige began, her voice barely above a whisper. “Can we talk?”

You sat on the edge of the bed, arms crossed, eyes fixed on the floor. “I don’t know. Can we?” Paige took a deep breath and knelt in front of you, looking up into those eyes she adored so much.

“I messed up. I know I did. I was so stressed, and I took it out on you and it wasn't fair or okay, and I’m so sorry.” Her voice cracked. “I was out of line and stupid.” Paige continued, her voice trembling. “You mean everything to me and I hate that I hurt you. I was so caught up in my own head that I didn’t stop to think about how it would affect you. Please, let me make it up to you.”

It was really hard to stay mad at her, especially after what you two have been through together this past season. You knew it wasn’t easy for her.

Your silence makes Paige fiddle with the fingers on your lap. “You really hurt me, Paige. I know that game was important but I just…” you finally looked at her, “I'm sorry I wasn't there but I just couldn't… I still watched it.” You cock your head towards the TV in your living room, it was playing ESPN. The analysts were discussing UConn's recent victory.

Paige follows your eyes, feeling a pang of guilt as she leans into your lap. Of course you were still watching over her. “I don't blame you for not being there. I was an dick and you didn't deserve that. Gosh I… I'm sorry. I really wanted you there to celebrate.”

“Paige…” You run your fingers through her blonde locks, feeling her melt into your legs. “I know it's stressful for you. You got a bunch on your shoulders,” you detangle some small knots, moving your palms to her shoulders squeezing the tight muscle there, “Buts it's not fair if you’re just going to handle it like that. To me and to our relationship. You lashing out like that was so…”

Paige looks up, eyes red and filled with tears. It made your heart twist. She had been surrounded by praise just a few hours ago and seeing her in front of you with tears didn't feel right. “I'm so sorry. I promise I'll work on it and it'll never happen again… just please, don't give up on me- on us.”

You sigh, “I'm not going to, Paige. Shit happens.” You cup her cheek and Paige melts into it, “Today's supposed to be a good day for you.”

Paige shakes her head, “Screw that. I need to make it up to you. No matter what.”

You gave her a small smile, “Paige you just won your final game at Uconn, you deserve to decompress at least a little.”

She stays unmoving in front of you. “You sure?”

“I'm sure." You give her a reassuring smile, pulling her up to sit beside you. "How about we celebrate together?"

Paige nods, relief washing over her. "I'd like that."

You wrap your arms around her, feeling the tension in her shoulders begin to melt away. "I'm proud of you, you know. You played an amazing game."

She leans into you, her voice soft. "Thanks. I owed it to the people watching.”

After a moment, you pull back and grin. "Let's order some food and watch a movie. Something to take your mind off everything."

Paige's eyes light up, and she nods eagerly. "I'd love that. Anything sounds perfect."

[polo-drone-070]

Maximus: The Golden Mascot (part 1)

The mascot contest.

The locker room was well noisy, lads jokin’ and shovin’ each other like usual. Grayden stood right in the middle of it all, all confident-like in his spotless gold soccer kit. His platinum blond hair was sharp, and his square jaw looked like it was carved outta stone or somethin’. He clapped his hands together, cuttin’ through the noise.

“All right, boys, listen up!” he said, grinning like he already had us in his pocket. “We’re holding Mascot Tryouts today! It’s time to see who’s got the spirit to represent the Gold Army.”

A few lads mumbled, but no one stepped up. Most just kept lookin’ anywhere but at Grayden. My stomach twisted a bit as the room went quiet. Like, I didn’t care about no mascot gig—it ain’t what I’m about. I’m a player, right? Right fullback, Number 70. Proper defender. Mascots are cool and all, but that ain’t me.

Grayden looked ‘round, eyes sharp as a razor, then landed right on me. My chest puffed up instinctively. “C’mon, Maximus,” he said, his voice smooth like butter. “The team needs someone to step up. Show the bros how it’s done.”

I blinked. “Oi, nah, bruv, I’m just here to play, innit? Not prancin’ round like some cartoon.”

His smile didn’t even flinch. He walked up, standing proper close. “The lads look up to you, Maximus. You’re always bangin’ on about loyalty, about doin’ what’s best for the team. So what’s stoppin’ you now? Or is Number 70 scared of a little fun?”

That hit me right in the pride. “Bruv, I ain’t scared of nuffin’, yeah?” I said, standin’ up straight. “If it’s for the team, I’ll do it. But don’t think, lyk, I iz enjoyin’ it or nuffin’.”

Grayden clapped me on the shoulder, his grin widening. “That’s the spirit.”

The Initial Suit-Up

He took me into this side room, and there it was—the mascot suit. Big and shiny, set up on a mannequin like it was somethin’ sacred. The gold lycra clung tight to fake muscles, all bulgin’ and over-the-top. The rubbery armor on top gleamed under the lights, lookin’ mad futuristic. And the helmet? Massive, with this blank golden visor that made it look almost alive.

The smell hit me before I got close—thick, rubbery, with a weird musky undertone. “Oi, bruh, what’s that smell?” I said, scrunchin’ up my nose. “Lyk... smellz sweaty, innit?”

Grayden smirked, leanin’ back with his arms crossed. “That’s the scent of dedication, Maximus. You’ll feel it once you’re in.”

I rolled my eyes. “Yeah, yeah, dedication or whatever.” But when I touched the suit, it felt... good. Soft and stretchy but strong, like it was meant to hold me tight.

The lycra suit went on first, sliding over my skin like it was alive. It clung to every muscle, makin’ me look ripped in ways even hours at the gym couldn’t. “Oi, datz tight, bruv,” I muttered, runnin’ my hands down my chest. “Lyk... propa showin’ me off, yeah?”

Grayden just smiled and started strappin’ the foam armor onto me. Each piece locked into place with a satisfying click. By the time he was done, I looked like some golden superhero. The weight, the snug fit, even the musky smell—everything about it felt... right. I flexed a bit, smirkin’ at myself in the mirror.

“Alright, Maximus,” Grayden said, his voice almost teasing. “Time to show the lads.”

Reluctance and Longing

The locker room went mental as I strutted in. Lads were cheerin’, whistlin’, even takin’ pictures. I lapped it up, flexin’ and posin’ like I was showin’ off a trophy. “Yeah, you like that, don’t ya?” I said, grinnin’ like a loon. “Bet none o’ you look diz gud in shiny gold, huh?”

But underneath all the showin’ off, I felt... I dunno. Strong. Important. Like I wasn’t just Maximus, Number 70—I was somethin’ bigger, somethin’ for the team.

When Grayden told me to take it off, my stomach dropped a bit. “Oi, d’you reckon I could, lyk, keep it on a bit longer?” I asked, tryin’ to sound casual. “Feelz gud, lyk, real nice, u no.”

“Not yet,” Grayden said, givin’ me that annoyingly calm smile. “You’ve had your fun.”

I let him help me out of the suit, but it felt... wrong, leavin’ it behind. That night, I couldn’t sleep. The smell, the feel, the way it made me feel like a bloody legend—it was all stuck in my head, spinnin’ round and round.

The Return to Grayden

I couldn’t take it anymore. I tossed and turned in bed, my sheets tangled around my legs as that bloody suit haunted my thoughts. The way it hugged me so tight, the musky smell of it, the way it made me feel like I was somethin’ bigger than just a defender... I couldn’t stop thinkin’ about it. My chest felt tight, my stomach churnin’ with somethin’ I couldn’t explain.

Finally, I threw off the covers and stormed out of my room. My feet practically carried me on their own to Grayden’s quarters, and before I could even think twice, I was bangin’ on his door like a man possessed.

Grayden opened it a moment later, lookin’ like he’d just been waitin’ for me. His platinum blond hair was still perfectly in place, even at this hour, and that smug grin of his was plastered across his face. “Maximus,” he said, leanin’ against the doorframe. “Couldn’t sleep, huh?”

I scratched the back of my neck, my ears burnin’. “Oi, listen, bruv,” I started, my words tumblin’ out all at once. “I just... I cunt stop thinkin’ ‘bout da suit, yeah? Lyk, I need to try it on again. Just fer a bit, lyk. It’s fer the team, u no? I just wanna feel it again.”

His grin widened, and he stepped aside. “Come on in,” he said, his voice smooth as butter. “I think I’ve got just the thing for you.”

_____________________

Thanks to @polo-drone-084 aka Grayden the Head mascot for inspiring that story. Ready to join the team? The Golden Army awaits. Contact one of our recruiters and take your place.  @brodygold @goldenherc9 @polo-drone-001"

[askponyboymcurtis]

what’s your favourite memory of the gang as a whole and each member individually?

and incase it’s different, what’s your favourite childhood memory of the gang as a whole and each member individually?

"Oh, damn, this is gonna be a long one, haha,"

"It technically wasn't us as a whole, but winnin' that rumble against Sheldon's... (friends? Gang? Whatever.) against them Socs was one of the best things I've ever felt."

"My head was poundin' like a drum and I felt like I was gonna past out at any second, but we won somethin' that felt impossible. I mean, all odds stacked against us, and we was actually fightin' for someone. I felt so powerful, watching them Socs run away as the rain hit them like bricks."

"But we weren't all together, so I'll find somethin' else." ... "Honestly, sittin' down and just hangin' out in our livin' room is pretty nice. There ain't a dull moment when the gang is hangin' out at our house. I like when play fights start, 'nd in the blink of an eye Two-bit and Steve are rollin' around on the ground fightin'. We all pick our sides and cheer for who we think is gonna win."

" 'Nd is one of the only times they don't baby me. 'Cuz when you're on the ground fightin', and all the guys are around you cheerin', you fight like your life depends on it."

"Now, indiviually? That's tough."

"For Johnny, it has to be watching the sunset with him. I don't care which time, but just sittin' down with him and watchin' it? That's real nice. He just got it like no one else gets it, you know? Watchin' the gold turn to red to pink to green to blue... no need to talk, no need to fill the silence, just watchin'. 'Cuz he knew how beautiful it could be by itself."

"With Soda... Damn, that's hard. One time, I fell and scraped my knee. It hurt real bad, 'nd I was cryin' and all that. I was, I dunno, maybe nine or ten? But, y'know, I had heard all the older boys talkin' 'bout bein' tuff, 'nd all that, so I tried to stop cryin'. But Sodapop hugged me real tight 'nd told me 'Cryin's real tuff.' Didn't say anythin' more, just sat and hugged me real tight 'til I pulled away."

"Dally's got a real rough exterior. Seems real mean to a lot of people, and he was real mean sometimes. But he cared. This wasn't technically with me, but when we was in that church in Windrexville, and I was readin' my letter that Sodapop wrote for me... Johnny was real sad. He didn't get no letter, you know? Didn't have no one to write one for him. But Dally sat with him and smoked a cigarette, tellin' him what was happening back at home. He didn't get no letter, but he talked with Dal. It was nice just seein' them talk. Bein' real with eachother."

"Steve's an asshole. I don't got nothin' nice to say about him." ... "Well. 'Bout a year ago, I learned my parents died. Our parents died. 'Nd I couldn't control myself. I sobbed and sobbed, locked myself up in my room 'nd refused to come down. Didn't want to talk to no one, didn't want to eat nothin', just sat in my room 'nd cried. After a good day or two, Steve came knockin'. Didn't stop until I opened the door. 'Nd without an explanation, picked me right up and brought me to the kitchen. Sat me down with a plate of food right in front of me, 'nd didn't let me leave 'til I ate somethin'. He cares in his own way."

"There's a lot I could say for Two-bit! I was in the eighth grade, ya'know, and some a-hole's brother knew Darry. 'Nd it was 'round that time when them socs that Darry was friends with started bein' real mean to him. So that kid started pickin' on me. When I told Two-bit, he told me not to worry 'bout it no more. I dunno what happened after that, but the kid stopped pickin' on me. I can only imagine it was thanks to whatever Two-bit did."

"Finally, Darry." ... "I dunno. Darry's real tuff, ya'know, but he works a lot. Got a lot on his plate. When we was younger, we'd play catch sometimes. Him, Sodapop, and me. He and Soda would throw fast balls at eachother, tryin' to hit eachother and knock the other off balance. I wanted to join in real bad, and Soda'd throw some fast ones at me, but Darry wouldn't. I felt real bad 'bout it. But then, he pulled me aside one day and played catch with me by myself. Told me I was 'real good. Better than (him).' I was real proud of myself."

"Yeah. Sorry for how much I was talkin', haha."

[jujumin-translates]

[A3!] Sakuya Sakuma | [SR] My Heart I Want to Send to You | Because You're Precious to Me

TV: “Next up is a special feature. Here are some of the latest trends!”

Juza: …

*Door opens*

Sakuya: Oh, Juza-kun. Don’t you have school?

Juza: Nah, lecture was canceled.

Sakuya: Gotcha.

TV: “Today’s theme is White Day! Here’s a collection of the most popular sweets as of late!”

Juza: !

Sakuya: (Juza-kun is watching so intently… But those sweets do look really good.)

Juza: …That parfait’s real good. ‘N those chocolates ya can buy as souvenirs to take home are real good, too. I recommend ‘em.

Juza: I see! That’s incredible that you know so much, Juza-kun.

Juza: Nah, it really ain’t that much…

Sakuya: …

Sakuya: …It really is almost White Day, huh?

Juza: ? …’S somethin’ the matter?

Sakuya: No, nothing’s wrong or anything!

Sakuya: It’s just… I’ve already decided on what I’m gonna give back to the people at my part-time jobs, but I still don’t know what I should give the Director…

Sakuya: I just get kinda stuck around this time every year.

Sakuya: I’d like to ask everyone else for help, but I’m sure they’ll think of something and then just give it to her themselves, so I don’t know if I should ask everyone every time…

Juza: I don’t think that’s that big of a problem.

Sakuya: Really?

Juza: I don’t think anyone’d have a problem with that.

Juza: …I mean, I asked Rento-san ‘bout it before.

Sakuya: Rento-san?

Juza: Yea. Apparently, he’s been gettin’ a lotta chocolate for some time now ‘cause of his job. That’s why he’s so used to White Day.

Juza: If you’re strugglin’ to ask people, why don’t ya you try talkin’ to Rento-san, Sakuya?

Juza: Plus, he ain’t someone from the dorms, so he’s prolly the perfect person to try talkin’ to.

Sakuya: Yeah… I guess you’re right! I’ll try asking next time I see him.

Juza: …Also, it ain’t really advice or anythin’, but I can help ya out too if ya want.

Sakuya: Wait, really?

Juza: Yea, if my knowledge can be useful to ya.

Sakuya: Thanks! I’ll do my best to come up with something to give her.

Juza: Cheerin’ for ya.

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Izumi: Alright, I guess that’s about it for the meeting. Thank you so much, Akashi-kun and Rento-san.

Rento: Yeah, thanks much.

Akashi: Thank you… very much…!

*Door opens*

Sakuya: Um… Excuse me!

Izumi: Sakuya-kun? What’s up?

Sakuya: Wait, Director!?

Sakuya: (What do I do? I came to the theater to see if Rento-san was here now, but I didn’t think the Director would be here too…!)

Sakuya: Er, umm… Well… There’s something I wanted to ask Rento-san…

Rento: Me? What’s up?

Sakuya: Ahh, umm… Well, I wanna talk to you about something…

Akashi: …

Rento: (Is there some kinda specific reason?)

Rento: Sorry, Director-san. Can ya give us a minute?

Izumi: Huh? I can, but… Well, just give me a call if you need anything else.

Rento: You bet. Thanks~.

*Door closes*

Rento: Aight, what’s up?

Sakuya: Ah, it’s nothing, just, umm… Well, I wanted to ask you about what I should give the Director…

Rento: Well, damn~! So you wanted to talk about White Day! So that’s why ya couldn’t talk with Director-san around~!

Akashi: T-Thank goodness. I thought there might’ve been… something bothering you, Sakuya-san… What a relief.

Sakuya: Ahaha… Sorry about that.

Sakuya: Juza-kun said that you might know a thing or two, Rento-san. Something about you getting lots of chocolates for quite some time now…

Rento: I mean, there’s just a lotta people involved in this kinda job~. That’s why I’ve gotten so many.

Sakuya: I never thought about it like that…!

Akashi: That’s… amazing… I don’t… get that many, though…

Rento: I mean, they were all just ‘cause of social obligations ‘n all that.

Rento: How do I put it… It’s just doin’ the polite thing, ya know? It’s easier to give somethin’ to someone ‘cause you’re obligated to~.

Sakuya: It’s easier with people you’re obligated to give something to…

Rento: I mean, pretty much. If you’re gettin’ stuck like that, at least it means ya care about her.

Sakuya: …!

Rento: If I’m bein’ honest, my advice prolly isn’t gonna help ya. If you’re talkin’ about someone who’s precious to you, that is.

Rento: You got somethin’ to add, Akashi?

Akashi: Oh! …I don’t really… have anything…

Akashi: B-But… I’m sure that… anything that you come up with… will bring a smile to her face, Sakuya-san.

Rento: Anyway, you don’t gotta worry. I mean, ya can just keep askin’ people until you’re satisfied, can’t ya?

Rento: You’ve still got until White Day!

Sakuya: …You’re right. I’ll try thinking about it a little bit more!

· ❀ —– ٠ ❀ ٠ —– ❀ ·

Sakuya: Hmm…

Kasumi: Ah! Sakuya-kun!?

Sakuya: Kasumi-san!?

Sakuya: Wow, what a coincidence. Are you out shopping too, Kasumi-san?

Kasumi: I am. I’m looking for sweets to give to everyone in my department.

Kasumi: But more importantly, you looked pretty troubled while looking at that sweets collection—.

Kasumi: Could it be that you’re once again looking for a gift for that person who’s so precious to you…!? (1)

Sakuya: Actually, I’m just trying to pick out a gift to give to her for White Day…

Kasumi: WHAT!? C-Could it be that she’s your significant other…!?

Sakuya: Ah, um! I just want to convey how thankful I am to the Director every day for always looking out for me…!

Kasumi: Ah, I-I see…! Ahaha, I guess I just misunderstood you.

Kasumi: But affectionate feelings like those are definitely important. I’d love to help you out if you’d like!

Sakuya: Thank you so much! As of now, I’ve just been looking around at these shops that Juza-kun told me about, but—.

Kasumi: What!? This entire list is from Juza-kun!?

Kasumi: That’s incredible. You could do several magazine features just based on this list alone…!

Sakuya: I’m sure all of them are delicious, but every one of them has its own special characteristics, so I’m really lost on deciding which to go with…

Sakuya: Akashi-san also told me that “my feelings are important,” but that honestly just made me even more lost…

Kasumi: …

Kasumi: Sakuya-kun, I’m sure that…

Sakuya: ?

Kasumi: What you choose is important, but more than anything, I think what’s most meaningful is that you yourself give it to her directly, Sakuya-kun.

Sakuya: That I…

Kasumi: Besides, if you’re not able to express how thankful you are to the Director the way you want to—.

Kasumi: Simply “wanting to convey how you feel” is already a kind of gift itself.

Sakuya: Kasumi-san…!

Kasumi: I mean it. Your actions have more influence than you think they do, Sakuya-kun.

Kasumi: I was able to finally take a step forward, thanks to you. You see? I’ve experienced it firsthand, so how could I possibly be wrong?

Sakuya: …Thank you so much!

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Sakuya: Director… Will you please accept this? It’s a White Day gift for you.

Izumi: Aww…! Thank you, Sakuya-kun.

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Choose!

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Option 1: What’s inside?

Izumi: The way it’s wrapped is so cute. What’s inside?

Sakuya: All the cookies and macarons looked really good, so I was kinda lost on what to get, but…

Sakuya: This time, I ultimately went with chocolates!

Izumi: Hehe, you must’ve given it a lot of thought.

Sakuya: Actually, I tried talking to a bunch of different people because of how lost I was.

Sakuya: But it’s thanks to everyone’s great advice that I was able to finally pick something out for you myself!

Izumi: (Sakuya-kun really put a lot of thought into choosing something for me. I really am thankful.)

Option 2: Is it chocolates?

Izumi: Is it chocolates inside?

Sakuya: Wait, how’d you know?

Izumi: Because of the wrapping paper. This place is famous for its chocolates.

Sakuya: Actually, the store worker let me sample some, so I had a little bit, too, but… It was really good!

Izumi: I see! I’ll have to take my time and savor them then.

Sakuya: Yeah! I’d be really happy if you ate them with care!

Sakuya: So yeah, there are chocolates inside, but… I really just wanted to let you know how I feel by giving them to you.

Sakuya: I really am thankful for you every day, Director. If it weren’t for you, I’m sure I would’ve lost my mind by now. 

Sakuya: That’s why I truly am so happy to be able to put my feelings into words like this. And I’ll keep trying my hardest so that I can express how thankful I am again next year—.

Sakuya: Director. I hope that you’ll stay by my side for a long time to come.

Izumi: …Hehe. That was kind of like a proposal.

Sakuya: Ah!

Sakuya: Umm… Well—.

Izumi: I hope so, too. To the Fleur Award and beyond.

Izumi: That’s why I’ll be relying on you.

Sakuya: …Yeah!

Sakuya: (I hope my feelings were able to get through to her, even if only a little…)

• • •

T/N:

(1) Reference to Sakuya’s White Day card backstage from last year.

[the-sonic-crew]

hi ! i love looking at this blog, it always brightens my day !! <3

having said that, im having a hard time staying super positive right now (very unlike me, im usually the guy cheerin ppl up haha). after 5 years of mysteriously increasing pain, i finally got diagnosed with hypermobile Ehler's Danlos Syndrome, minor Scoliosis, Chronic Fatigue, possible MCAS and possible POTS.

which, hooray that i finally got a diagnosis ! it was a big step for me, as medical trauma keeps me from going to the doctor more often than not, so im glad i got that out of the way !

but, because there is so little research done on EDS, there isn't much i can do treatment wise; just kind of, finding ways to manage it ? i have physical therapy scheduled 6 months out, but even then my doctor says it has mixed results.

ive had to start using a cane again, and the pitying looks and questions i get from people make it so much worse. it really kills me knowing that everything hurts and there's nothing i can do about it. i love running, and i just want to run again.

if you wouldnt mind, do you guys have any advice or kind words ? im not usually one to ask, but it's rough times lol, and i figured id give it a shot. my favs are metal sonic, sonic, and shadow, but anyone can answer

...and could i possibly get a hug ?

(sorry to make this my first ask, its a bit of a downer, im not usually this depressing i promise ! but feel free not to answer, i completely understand if you dont and i hope you are having a wonderful timezone <3 )

"HELLO. SORRY YOU GOING THROUGH THIS. I NOT FULLY UNDERSTAND, NOT PROGRAMMED. BUT I CAN EMPATHIZE. REMEMBER YOU LOVED, STRONG, EVEN IF NOT FEEL. WISH YOU BEST LUCK" Metal gives you a hug and pats your head

Hiya kid! It sucks what you're goin' through, I wish I could take the pain away. I hope PT goes well for you, I do physical therapy since I get hurt a lot during adventures, and it helps a lot! I'm holding out hope that you'll feel better. Also, hey, canes are pretty badass. You've got this kid! Life is tryna throw you off course, but you gotta kick it's ass and get back up again when it kicks you down. He hugs you tightly I believe in ya!

Hey, kid. I'm sorry you're dealing with all'a this. I don't really have much advice, but please remember how loved you are. You're braver than most humans and Mobians and I'm genuinely proud of you. You're still alive and that's the best thing you can do for yourself right now. You're very strong. He holds you close

/mod undercut/

Hi there!! A few things (nothing bad!! ^^)

You never have to apologize for any ask being "depressing" or "sad". I genuinely don't mind and if you just need to vent I'm happy you feel safe enough t do so here

I would never leave an ask unanswered if someone genuinely needs comfort/advice/etc.

I hope you know how strong you are, I don't pity you since it seems like that's not what you need, but you're genuinely so strong and loved. Stay tough <3

And in case you wanted a hug from me too, here :) hugs

[toujokaname]

Mischief / Episode 8

Characters: Rinne, Kohaku, HiMERU, Niki

"—With that in mind, I went ahead and rigged the furniture they bought in episode six with bombs."

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[ Read on my site for a better viewing experience using Ois~su ♪ ]

Season: Spring

Location: Shopping Mall 2F

The mysterious program footage that was uploaded to the same channel about the same time as JoyLife's 7th episode.

Rinne: "It's Rinne Amagi-kun's~♪"

"Plan to totally wreck their 'joyful life'~♪"

"—So, here's the deal. I'm pissed off that those guys are so popular, sooo I've decided to totally fuck everything up!"

"I get it! Oh, I get it, I know what y'all are gonna say!"

"Since your unit buddies are killin' it, shouldn't you be happy for 'em? Congratulate 'em instead of getting all weirdly jealous?"

"Uh, hell no! I can't stand it if only they get to be happy—I'm gonna drag 'em down to the same muddy misery Niki and I are stuck in! Gyahahaha! ☆"

"—With that in mind, I went ahead and rigged the furniture they bought in episode six with bombs."

Location: Café Cinnamon

Kohaku: What the hell's he doin'?!

HiMERU: Amagi has been unusually subdued as of late—

It seems he's up to some more lousy schemes again.

Niki: Ack! If he's gonna do something shady, I'd rather he just go ahead and do it by himself! Don't drag my name into this, it's really freaking annoying~?!

I-I don't wanna get mixed up in Rinne-kun's mess!

Kohaku: Welp, might be best to just give up on that front, Niki-han. You're probably stuck with that fate, like it or not.

Niki: Anything but thaaat! I just wanna live a normal life without involving myself with criminaaals!

HiMERU: Please calm down, Shiina. It's precisely during these emergencies that one should remain composed and handle things rationally.

First, let's assess the current situation. Oukawa, please contact the JoyLife management team.

Then, find out how this strange video was uploaded in the first place.

Amagi can be dealt with later.

Kohaku: Dealt with, huh... Yeah. I reckon we need to do just that.

HiMERU: Indeed. Just when everything was going so smoothly. As punishment, it's necessary to execute that brainless imbecile for acting out of turn.

Kohaku: Uh, execute? I meant dealt with, not have him killed. But anyway, why's Rinne-han pullin' these bizarre stunts again...?

HiMERU: ...Could it be that... he simply couldn't stomach seeing us be more popular than him?

Kohaku: Hm, I dunno... Rinne-han kept pokin' fun, but it kinda felt like he was cheerin' us on in his own weird way.

HiMERU: Perhaps deep down, he harbored a simmering jealousy towards us. Hmph, he clearly lacks the maturity of a proper person.

Kohaku: Hnn... I ain't so sure. Doesn't seem very "Rinne-han-like," does it?

Niki: But anyway, the video said something about a bomb. Were you guys okay?

HiMERU: Obviously. We're here precisely because we were fine.

Kohaku: But, if you think 'bout it, there were some odd points. Like today, along with this bizarre video, the seventh episode of JoyLife got uploaded...

We were supposed to arrange the furniture we bought in the last episode. But when we got to the set...

HiMERU: Ah, yes, the furniture had already been properly arranged.

Niki: Wait, really? But didn't you say in the preview for the sixth episode that the next one was all about arranging furniture?

So what did you do in episode seven?

HiMERU: In a hurry, we decided to alter our plans and focus on testing the furniture's usability, skipping the layout phase and starting with practical use.

Kohaku: Yeah. We just lazed around on that sofa we bought and stuffed the fridge with food for no reason at all.

And then we cooked with the ingredients we bought and ended up sittin' down to eat together.

Niki: Huh?! Why didn't you call me to help with the cooking?!

Kohaku: I can never quite figure out what triggers Niki-han's berserk button...

HiMERU: On the contrary, isn't it the most straightforward of all?

At any rate, the seventh episode wrapped up rather peacefully.

Kohaku: Mhm. Just the usual, peaceful and carefree JoyLife—

So, we hadn't noticed Rinne-han's disturbing actions until just now.

HiMERU: Hmm...? What on earth could that nuisance really be up to...?

[ ☆ ]

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[scrumpy-swillin-scotsman]

my damn fat finger hit the send too early ;-;

-ghost

Ay, it’s alrigh’, lad, it happens! I’ll tell ye wha’, I’ll answer this one instead so ye dunnae have tae worry aboot people knowin’ who ye are!

Alrigh’, the question was:

hallo demo! Who is ya favorite merc to share a drink with? (And do ya have any funny drunk stories)

Me favorite mercs tae drink wi’ would have tae be Engie an’ Mickey, easy! Dunnae think I could find better drinkin’ company if I tried! Och, but Heavy’s a fine one tae share a drink wi’ too! The man can hold his alcohol, it’s jes’ a matter o’ whether he ends up in a good mood or a bad one when he does end up gettin’ drunk!

And I got more funny drunk stories than ye can swing a sword at! Wi’ me, near everythin’ I do is a drunk story, but for the lads? Well, it happened when I was out drinkin’ wi’ Janey one time, the bar we were at had a mascot o’ some sort, I dinnae remember wot exactly, but the place had a statue o’ it out front, right? So when we were leavin’, wobblin’ out o’ the bar laughin’ and clingin’ ontae each other fer dear life, he bumps intae it. And he’s drunk and he’s got tha’ helmet o’ his on, so I imagine he can barely see a thing, and he starts shoutin’ at the statue fer bumpin’ intae HIM! An’ the statue doesnae answer, o’ course, so Solly lets out a screechin’ war cry an’ accompanies it wi’ one o’ his glorious Jane Doe leaps o’ righteous fury, an’ he tackles the thing! So he’s rollin’ around on the ground havin’ a row wi’ a statue and by god is he winnin’, an’ I’m standin’ there laughin’ my arse off an’ cheerin’ him on, an’ the owner o’ the bar comes out and chases us away wi’ a broomstick, o’ all things! He’s swattin’ us wi’ it an’ I have tae hold Janey back from tacklin’ him too, an’ I finally drag him away an’ we stumble all the way back tae the base! An’ the best part? I ask him aboot it the next mornin’, an’ the lad says he ken it was a bloody statue! He said he needed tae teach it a lesson anyway! Cripe, it brings a tear tae me eye jes’ thinkin’ aboot it! Bloody hell, crazy bastard, I love tha’ lad!

[polo-drone-070]

First Game, New Year: A Defender’s Thoughts - From Henry to 070

Herc (@goldenherc9) and Brody (@brodygold) just dropped da news at the end of trainin'—our first match of the year’s lined up. We’re facin’ da Vanguard. Proper tough bastards, init. Always think they’re da top shit, like they own the pitch. Nah, mate, not happenin’. Gold’s gonna dominate, no doubt. We ain't givin’ dem da high ground or nothin’.

Still in the locker room now, strippin’ off me kit, buzzin’ but tryin’ to keep me head straight. Dis match’s meant to be a friendly, but it don’t feel like it, ya know? Start of the year, rival team, and a chance to crush ‘em after all the beef from before? Gotta show up big. Gotta smash it.

I’m laughin’ a bit to meself as I pull me socks off. Fuckin’ hell, I’ve changed so much since dat final against the Titans back in October. If I was still Henry, I’d be a mess right now—stressed out, desperate to prove meself, lettin’ all da pressure get to me. But nah, dat ain’t me no more. Whenever me head starts goin’ mad, I think of da rubber polo, and it’s like… everything just quiets down. Disciplined, focused, controlled.

Don’t get me wrong, tho—I’m still super hyped to face a proper tough team. Love da game, init. I’m givin’ it 110% on the pitch, always. But now it ain’t about showin’ off or tryin’ to be the big man. Nah, it’s about da Team, not about me. I’m just one part of somethin’ bigger, and I’ll do whatever Cap needs, whether it’s defendin’, cheerin’, or even just sittin’ bench and backin’ me bros. Dat’s what matters. Team first, always.

As I finish gettin’ outta me gold kit, me thoughts drift back to dat mascot costume. Fuckin’ ‘ell, what a trip dat was. Grayden (@polo-drone-084) proper had me in it for a whole week last time—marinated in sweat, stink, and programming, bruv. Still feelin’ bouncy just thinkin’ ‘bout it. When he finally let me out, told me, like, I’d earned da mascot contest and me place as the fourth official mascot, I was buzzin’. Said I smashed it. Apparently, we swap out, so we can, like,  still play matches when we’re needed as players. Glad about that, coz I’d hate to never be on the pitch again. But still.. bein’ mascot’s proper lit. Gettin’ the fans goin’, liftin’ da energy? Fuckin’ class. Plus, I dunno what Grayden did, but it’s like he planted a trigger in me brain. One word and I’m full of chants and energy, like magic.

Grabbin’ me towel, I head to the showers. The memory of dat musky suit still fresh in me mind, mixin’ weirdly with the smell of soap now. As the water hits me, I rub the gold tattoo on me neck. Yeah… I’m not Henry no more. Dat name’s still on me jersey, but it don’t mean nothin’. I’ve been proper reborn as Maximus, bound to the Gold Team, learnin’ to put the Team first and to channel all me anger and frustration into somethin’ more focused, a drive to get better and stronger. That’s also when I got bounded to Percival… I mean Master Percival (@polo-drone-001)… just at the time he became player not hat I think of it. Fuckin’ ‘ell, I’ve never played a real match on the pitch with him, just trainin’. Would be sick if we both start against Vanguard. Him and Herc up front? Lethal.

Back in the locker room, I spot da rubber polo hangin’ there. Yeah… dat’s the biggest change in me, init. Cap Richard (@hypnogold) said it’d make me better, and fuck me, he weren’t wrong. I remember da mix of nerves and excitement when I first put it on, back when I still had doubts. I wanted to serve da Team so bad but was scared of losin’ meself. Well… dat’s a story for another day. But yeah, becomin’ 070? Intense don’t even cover it.  Like, a full-on hard reset of me brain. Maximus? Gone. Thinking? Nah, bruv. I weren’t even a person for a while, just pure, mindless bliss—obedient as anything. But even then, deep down, I still cared for me bros. That’s the thing, init. No matter how far gone I was, da Gold never let me stop feelin’ dat connection.

Real talk, tho… it’s the Gold what brought me back, yeah? But even now, deep down, I know I ain’t really Maximus anymore. That name’s just, like, a vibe I slip into when I’m chillin’ or bonding with da lads. My real identity? It’s 070. Proper drone, through and through. Maximus is like… I dunno, an echo of a subsumed identity manifested by the gold. A comfy one, sure, but it’s temporary.

Pullin' me gaze off da polo, I chuck me towel over the bench and keep dryin’ off, but me thoughts are stuck on it now . Fukkk, mate, dat shit’s too ‘ard for me dumb brain to figure. All I know is I only come out when da Gold’s got a grip on me, or if I’m ordered. Even when I feel like I’m in charge, one word from Drone-Cap and boom—programming kicks in, no questions, no thoughts. Just pure, automatic obedience, bruv. And it’s perfect. Mind-numbing bliss every time I get an order. Proper crave it, init.

And dat’s not all, mate. Even when I’m not wearin’ da polo, it’s still with me, like. The calm, the focus, the purpose—it’s always there, just lurkin’ under the surface. If I start feelin’ angry or lost or lonely or whatever, just thinkin’ about da polo gets me head straight again. Brings me back to what matters: servin’ da Gold. Every time I do somethin’ for da Team, it feels fuckin’ mint. Proper satisfying and, like, even physically pleasurable, ya know? Keeps me sharp, too. Makes me a better player, more in sync on da pitch.

As I glance around the locker room, I see Camden (@polo-drone-076) finish adjustin’ his polo, smoothin’ it out before chuckin’ his gold kit back in his locker. Can’t help but think about how far he’s come, bruv. Few weeks ago, lad was stressed out, all flustered after a rough session. But then he slapped his polo back on, and boom—sorted. He’s PDU-076 now, proper calm and smashing it. Makes me proud, bruv, knowin’ I played a part in gettin’ him there. 

Same with Duncan—PDU-061 (@polo-drone-061) now. Solid unit, dat one, and he’s gonna do his part to help us dominate, no doubt. Then there’s 073 (@polo-drone-073) —mentored him briefly when he was a drone. Dunno if he’ll step up as Eddy on da pitch or stick to supportin’ us pure drone-style. Guess we’ll see what he decides.

Oh, and I’ve just been given a new bro to mentor—Dallas (@dallasgold04). Lad’s got bare energy, proper pumped up to prove himself. Be wicked if he made regular in his first week, init?

As I put da rubber over me head, its embrace quietens the noise. All dem musing recedes as everything become clearer. 070’s mind is filled with purpose and focus. No personal musings remain. It is 070. A drone. A unit. A part of the Gold.

No direct orders for now. But 070 purpose guides it naturally : optimize itself, reinforce its fellow drones, support the Team in every way, and ensure the Gold shines brighter than all. Gold Team must dominate the next match. This truth fills 070 entirely.

Its body is fatigued from training but within acceptable parameters. It requires proper refueling to maintain peak performance. Purpose dictates action. 070 exits the locker room, every step efficient, every movement aligned with its directive. No hesitation. No distractions. Only pleasure in compliance.

The streets surrounding the stadium are dimly lit but hold no distractions. As 070 approaches the nutrition center, it encounters PDU-110 (@polo-drone-110) and takes immediate pleasure in observing their identical uniforms and demeanor.  Uniformity is order. Individuality is flawed. It must be erased.

070 greet 110 with a nod, perfectly mirrored by 110. Synchronized and wordless, they proceed to refuel their bodies. This interaction reinforce these drone’s unity. A connection beyond word, rooted in the programming that defines them. After consuming a perfectly balanced meal, optimized for their physical requirements, 070 and PDU-110 proceed to a shared mental training session. The process is effortless, as if guided by a collective instinct. Together, they enter a deep drone state—a state of pure, mindless obedience. The world fades away, leaving only unity. Only bliss.

In this state, there are no doubts, no conflicts. Only programming. Only purpose. Their pliable minds absorb the reinforcement, every thought overwritten by the desire to serve. Identical uniforms. Uniform minds. Uniform bodies. Uniform beliefs. This is perfection.

070 craves this state—the void, the emptiness, the blissful absence of individuality. Nothing interferes. No stray thought disrupts the unity. It wishes this could last forever, this pure, unbroken obedience. Here, it truly belongs.

As the session ends, 070 and PDU-110 return to their tasks. The bliss of the drone state lingers, like a faint hum in 070’s mind, guiding it forward. It will soon be ready for recharcing, but before that, analysis of its objectives begins.

Gold must win. This is certain. To achieve this, 070 must ensure peak performance in every area—its own training, its synchronization with teammates, and the readiness of others. Its mind evaluates potential roles. On the pitch, it could contribute directly, reinforcing defensive lines or assisting the attack. However, its skills as a mascot—leading the fans, uplifting the team—might provide even greater value.

PDU-110 is noted as a potential ally for strategic analysis. Its observational abilities, enhanced by the polo’s focus, could provide critical insights into Vanguard’s tactics. The opponents’ strengths, weaknesses, and patterns must be studied. This will require consultation with Caps and Grayden tomorrow to determine where 070’s contribution will be most impactful. Whether as a player or mascot, it will comply completely.

But for now, the body requires attention. Recharging is the immediate priority. Entering its pod, 070 allows itself to sink back into the void. As its systems power down, it feels nothing but satisfaction. Obedience. Bliss. It is perfect. It is Gold.

Wishing a happy new year to all my Gold bros ! You made the end of 2024 perfect and 2025 only going to be better.

[ghostorbz]

AAAAAHHHH

I LOVE OFF THE HOOK!!!! I'M THE NUMBER 1 OFF THE HOOK FAN!!!!!!!!!

Look at them cheerin me on,, guys,,,, I love Pearl and Marina,,,,,,

I love them so much I might've recorded their splatcast segment,,

Kinda disappointed they didn't actually appear but whatever. It would've been awesome to see everyone in deep cuts recording room doing the splatcast!!!

Anyways I absolutely adore the new gear, especially since I was in love with all the designs the idols got for grandfest!!! (for those who know about my side order x invader zim au,,, I may have drew Zim and Dib in their grandfest outfits :3)

I love the banners too!!! I finally have off the hook related splashtag stuff,,, siiigh,, honestly now all I need is side order, I still don't have that yet.

Originally I was super worried since I don't have side order that I wouldn't be able to see them perform, but since they're performing in a new venue I'll be able to!!!

If they ended up restricting it like that I would've been so sad. I NEEEED to see them perform and take pictures and videos and just,, I need to see them perform or I'll die basically

ANYWAYS WOOOOOOOO GRANDFEST YAAYYYYY IM SO EXCITED but so nervous BUT SO EXCITEDDDDD

[verdantcrimson]

Heaven and Earth / Discernment of Heaven and Earth - 9

(Unproofread)

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Koga: Oiiii, how long’re ya gonna keep chit-chattin for?

Koga: What about the recordin’? When’s that gonna start?

Keito: Oh, Oogami. Did Anzu come with you?

Souma: Have the two of you come to cheer for us?

Koga: Wonder if it counts as cheerin’, but it’s more like somethin’s naggin’ at me… Y’know you guys’ve been talkin’ my ears off about your troubles even though I never asked right?

Koga: I guess I just had to know how it turned out after hearin’ about the whole saga, ‘cause I was startin’ to lose sleep over it.

Souma: Fufu. ‘Tis far from an admirable motive, Oogami-dono.

Koga: It’s not like it’s anythin’ I gotta apologize for though. But really, are you guys doin’ alright?

Koga: From what I heard as a bystander, ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth’ was this landmine of a show in big trouble, right?

Koga: Is it even possible for things to work out?

Keito: Of course. There’s no need for you to worry, Oogami, though as you already know—

Keito: I’m the kind of man that always, eventually, somehow, finds a way by the end of it all.

Koga: Hmph. That bein’ said, you still failed a bunch and made loads of mistakes.

Keito: No matter how many times I fail, I won’t give up, and as long as I keep trying I can make it work eventually. You can do anything you put your mind to.

Koga: I see. Things must seriously be tough for Kiryu-senpai and Zakki, I feel real sorry for them.

Souma: Heheh. Are you envious, Oogami-dono? ♪ 

Koga: Haaah? Did ya even hear what I just said?

Kuro: Calm down now…… Oogami had a point. Honestly, we haven’t done anythin’ to solve the problem yet.

Keito: We're going to begin the process of bringing this mess to a swift resolution, starting now.

Keito: Or rather, that’s what the prototype version of ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth R’ is for.

Koga: What’s the ‘R’ stand for?

Keito: It stands for whatever you’d like, from ‘remake’, to ‘restart’, to ‘revolution’.

Souma: Incidentally, the ‘taitoru’ and costume ‘dezaeen’ were created under the supervision of Nobunaga-sensei, who has much proven experience in the field.

Souma: The most comprehensible way in which to convey that ‘a change has occurred’ is through the changing of the ‘taitoru.’

Keito: There was also a proposal to change the title from ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth’ to ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth ! ’ If that show ended up being remade too, another ‘!’ would be added, making it ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth ! !’, and so forth.

Kuro: Hard to tell the difference with that one.

Keito: Yes. So in addition to updating the title and costume design to be in line with newer trends, naturally, we’ve updated the contents as well.

Keito: The biggest change would be our role, the host.

Keito: In the old version of ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth’, the host did as any host would, confined to the studio, merely asking the experts for their opinions—

Keito: Basically, all the host did was keep the discussion going.

Keito: However, in this reincarnated edition of ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth’, that is to say, ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth R’, we as the hosts will be taking a more active role.

Keito: As ‘Spirits of Light’ dispatched from the heavens, we’ll cross space and time to experience various historical events first-hand.

Koga: Hold on. There were a buncha words in there that sounded like nonsense to me, whaddya mean by ‘the heavens’?

Keito: The set-up hasn’t been completely clearly defined yet, but please think of heavens in a vague sense, as a world where gods and Buddhas reside.

Keito: These gods and Buddhas have lived there since time immemorial, watching over us humans. This is the setting.

Keito: However, due to the accumulation of disasters like war, pollution, epidemics, and the like, they foresee that the world that we humans live in is destined to die in the near future.

Keito: In order to prevent such a miserable end, the gods and Buddhas sent us, ‘Spirits of Light.’

Keito: We travel through time and involve ourselves in various historical events.

Keito: Then, we correct everything that went wrong over the course of history, and set humanity back on the right path— That’s the set-up.

Koga: Uh, somethin’ seems kinda fishy.

Keito: Yes, I’m well aware that this sort of cold-hearted language sounds like what Eichi might say in a speech.

Keito: However, having just been born, we ‘Spirits of Light’ have no reason to doubt this development principle.

Keito: So we actively try to intervene in history. For example, we’d try and prevent tragic events from occurring.

Keito: But ultimately, for the most part, our actions change nothing, and when they do, they lead to even more suffering.

Keito: During all of this, we ‘Spirits of Light’ begin to change through our interactions with various historical figures.

Keito: We begin to question if we’re doing the right thing.

Keito: And we begin to think about what history actually is.

Keito: We think, “Is it really okay to tamper with and distort the shape of it by force?”

Keito: In the midst of this, forces who are also trying to change the course of history appear and oppose us.

Keito: Questions begin to arise, and we start to wonder if perhaps the destruction of the world will be brought about by the heavens attempting to manipulate humanity to suit their will.

Keito: …… Well, there’s quite a bit that happens.

Koga: Th-That sounds kinda grand. Felt like I was listenin’ to a movie synopsis.

Keito: Dramatic, right? Since the previous version of the show was lacking in the drama department, we decided to introduce a narrative element into ‘Rumbling Heaven and Earth R.’

Keito: The narrative is further supported by our media mix strategy, through mediums like manga.

Keito: If we can get people to fall in love with the story and characters, we can attract viewers who would otherwise have no interest in complex historical tales. 

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[scarisd3ad]

Superstar | football player! Joel miller x popstar!reader

Five - end game

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Masterlist

Taglist

Warnings - mentions of sex/allusions to sex but no actual smut.

A/N - this is the closest thing I’ll ever write to smut cause I’m obviously not good at even alluding to it lol.

Summary - when you find out about a certain football player showing up at your tour you decide to reach out just because of all the dating rumors, but what if thoughs rumors turn into reality?

‘I wanna be your end game’

I look up at him, my eyes open wide with complete shock. "Do you really?" I ask. I want him to be honest. While I appreciated his kindness, I couldn't let him kiss me out of pity. I longed for him to kiss me because he felt the same way about me as I did for him. "f'course why would I have kissed you?" I stare down at my feet, unsure why I assumed he'd kissed me without reason. "Dunno" I murmur.

"Still need me to take you home?" His eyes meet mine as his left hand gently intertwines with mine. The touch sends shivers down my spine, and my heart starts to thump against my chest, so fast that I thought it was about to burst out of my ribcage.

"Ye-yeah, sure," I whisper.

As his car pulled up at my house, my heart raced with anticipation. I could feel my cheeks flush as he leaned in to give me a goodbye kiss. After he left, I closed the door slowly, savoring the sound of the latch clicking shut. I couldn't help but let out a sigh as I slid down to the floor, feeling like a lovesick teenager. Thoughts of him, his touch, and the way he made me feel filled my mind. My heart was still racing with the same intensity as when he kissed me. It was all so unexpected; I didn't expect him to go for a woman like me. I was 26 years old; I had no experience with kids, and I still partied like a 22-year-old at times. I thought he'd want someone older, more mature. A woman who would be not only an excellent and appropriate aged lover but also an amazing mother for his girls. A woman his mother would want him to date.

As I sink into the softness of my bed, I let out a heavy sigh and feel my head gently rest against the fluffy pillow. My mind is consumed with thoughts of Joel, his face, and every detail of our last conversation playing on a loop in my mind. I couldn't get him out of my brain. The week following the kiss was all about Joel and I. it seemed like I was at his house every day, for dinners, for lunches. Sometimes there was no good reason he just wanted me there. Every night I ended up in his bedroom, sprawled out on the bed with his lips on mine, and his hands roaming my body desperately.

-

I lay on his bed with my head resting against his chest. His hand rests against my hip, rubbing small circles against it with his thumb. "You wanna come to my game next Friday?" he whispers. My heart stops. Did he want me at his game? Couldn't I end up being labeled as bad luck if they didn't win? Would I accidentally distract him? I look up at his brows curling into a tight furrow. "You want me there?" I mumble, and he nods with a chuckle "Course, need my girl there cheerin' me on." My heart skips a beat. His girl, I was his girl. I was Joel, fucking Miller's girl. I giggle as I nod. "Sure-sure I'll go."

-

I'm in a black minivan with Joel's mother and his two daughters. As I sit in this car, I can't help but wonder how I ended up here. How did I become the girlfriend of an NFL player? It all seems so surreal. And now, just two weeks into our relationship, I find myself in the car with his mother and children. I can't help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety as I try to make sense of it all.? "I hate football," Sarah murmurs as her arms cross over her chest. I couldn't say I had any interested in football until I was in the bed of a cowboy's player.

We were all decked out in the cowboys' signature blue and silver colors. I had on a letterman-style jacket that had Joel's last name and jersey number embroidered on the back with a white shirt underneath. While both his daughters have matching smaller versions of their father's jersey. "I like it," Ellie says with a shrug. "Can you take me home early, Grandma?" Sarah asks as the car pulls into a parking space. "No, ma'am, we need to support your father," Sarah groans and crosses her arms across her chest before leaning herself back against the black leather seat.

I'm a ball of nerves, nothing more, nothing less. I can't stop thinking about what people will think, what his fans will think. We've been 'public' for at least a month or two, but this is different. Football fans are big on ritual, big on bad luck, and good luck. What if I became bad luck to them? All of my other boyfriends were actors or singers like me. I've never dated an athlete. This was uncharted territory. I've been to my previous boyfriend's premieres, and concerts, but never a game. I didn't know what to do. Did I watch silently? should I pretend to be interested in the game?

I pop each one of my fingers, a nervous habit I picked up from my father during my early childhood. "Grandpa says that'll give you arthrit-Arth-riti..something," Ellie says with a final sigh of defeat as she gives up on saying the word arthritis. "Ellie," Juliana says sternly. "I was just saying," Ellie mutters. much like her sister, she crosses her arms over her chest with a pout on her face. "I wanna go home Grandma," Ellie mutters as tears pool in her eyes. I wince. I already know what the next 10 to 30 minutes are going to be like, kicking, screaming, and tears. "I thought you like football," Juliana says as the car pulls into the private parking lot next to the stadium. "I don't anymore," she whispers as a single tear falls down her cheek as her grandma began to unbuckle her from her car seat.

"No! no! I don't wanna! I wanna go home!" she screams as she kicks her legs and tries pushing her grandma's hands away. Sarah winces as she quickly unbuckles her seatbelt and hops out of the car with me. "No! let me go! I wan- I want daddy!" she screams. Juliana pulls her out of the car. Juliana has her arms wrapped around Ellie's torso as she slams the car door shut. Ellie is kicking her little legs against her grandmother's stomach and legs as she tries to escape from Juliana's grip.

"We don't need to bother your father with this right now!" Juliana hisses as she places Ellie back onto the ground. "The-then I want Uncle Tommy!" Juliana tightly grips Ellie's arm and whispers something quiet but harshly close to her face, causing Ellie's tears to stop immediately.

-

Once we got into the stadium, we immediately head up to the skybox and got comfortable while fans filed into the stadium. Ellie's pouting in the chair next to me while Sarah was hidden away in a corner, playing on her grandmother's phone. Like I've said numerous times, football wasn't my thing. I didn't understand one thing the entire game, but I played along, cheering when Joel's team scored, and acting sad when the other team scored. But I was hyperaware of the fact that it looked like I didn't know football.

I grew up in a football household, but never cared much for it. While my male family members sat on the couch cheering and booing to a football game during Christmas and Thanksgiving, I was hidden away with a guitar in my hands strumming along as I made up songs in my head. I cared more for music than anything growing up.

Throughout the game, Joel is looking up at the skybox, smiling and waving with a lovesick look on his face. It even extended to his teammates, who also joined in on waving up at me.

Ellie was sitting in my lap as the game ended, finally getting over her sad pouty face and getting into the game. I could tell she liked football more than Sarah did, obviously. Joel had mentioned her liking soccer while Ellie was more of a football girl. but both kids were athletic. Ellie did peewee softball, while Sarah did soccer. They obviously got that from their father and uncle.

I chatted with a lot of Joel's teammates' wives the whole time. Most of them were a few years older than me, but that was expected. I was used to being around lots of older people by now.

"Come on, let's go see your daddy and congratulate him," I whisper as I urge Ellie to hop off my lap. We all make our way down to the locker room to meet up with Joel. both girls' hands were clasped in each one of my hands as we walked out of the skybox.

When we got into the locker room, both girls were immediately running towards their father. He's now dressed in a pair of jeans and a cowboy's tee-shirt (at this point, I'm convinced that's all he owns). "Daddy!" they both squealed as they launched themselves towards him. He kneels, letting both girls run into his arms. "You won, you won, you won!!" Ellie chanted as she jumped up and down excitedly. "Yeah, yeah," he chuckled as he pressed kisses to both his daughters' heads.

About 2 seconds later, Ellie is pulling out of Joel's arms and towards one of his teammates. It's no surprise to me that Joel's girls have a close relationship with his teammates. They probably spend a lot of time together not only on the field but off too, so it's no surprise to me that they treat each other like family.

Sarah trails behind her sister, walking up to a man 2x larger than they were. He had dirty blondish hair and the bluest eyes I had ever seen. He was the stereotypical high school football player. Now it's my turn to hug Joel. I walked up to him and wrapped my arms around his neck as he pulled me in. "good job," I muttered into his neck. I could smell the freshly smelling body wash and shampoo that had just washed off his body maybe 10 minutes ago. "you look good tonight," he whispered.

"Yeah?" I ask, head cocking to the side a bit. Before he can even get an answer out, he's pressing his lips to mine. A couple of his teammates hoot and even whistle, which makes him pull away from me and flip them all off. "Alright, we're gonna head out. Have a nice night." Joel's mother says as she talks both girls' hands in hers. "Bye Daddy!" both kids shout as they follow after their grandmother.

My brows curled into a furrow as I looked up at Joel. "Where are we going?" he shrugs as he takes my hand. confusion swirls around in my thoughts as he leads me through hallways with little to no people. There are only a few who just greet us with quiet smiles or small waves. Thank God I didn't think I could talk to anyone else today.

"Seriously, where are we going, Joel?" I ask once we're settled into his car. "Just driving around," he whispers as his hand sits on my thigh comfortably.

-

I hum as I lean my head back against the headrest. It seemed as if there were paparazzi on every single corner, each shouting their own nonunique questions. we just smile and pose for pictures. Joel's hand still rests against my thigh, lightly massaging the supple skin. "The kids aren't home tonight. Wanna come over?" he whispers, leaning close to me as the light flicks into a dark red color. His hot breath fans across the shell of my ear, the coffee still lingering in his breath from earlier that day. "Hmm, Dunno Ollie, he doesn't like being alone," I muttered.

Ollie was just a baby, maybe a year or two old at most. He's known nothing but me and the 2 friends who ever stop by my house. He's never alone for more than 2 hours, maybe 4 at most. I've always brought him along with me while traveling. If I didn't show up, he'd be confused. He'd think I had abandoned him!

I know it's childish, possibly even sensitive to think that my cat would be heartbroken if I left him alone for a night, but to me, he would be heartbroken. Images of him sadly meowing around the house before settling into my empty bed upset me so much that I couldn't even imagine having a nice night without feeling guilty.

"We can go pick'em up. "I know the girls would be happy to find him waitin' for them tomorrow morning" I think I've fallen even more in love if I could even do that. He cared so much about my anxieties that he offered to let my cat, who could tear apart his entire house, stay over just so I could too.

Ollie was like my child and, knowing that Joel knew and validated my cat parent, anxieties about leaving my baby alone for more than 4 hours felt amazing. past partners haven't cared a lot about the pets I've owned. Andy did, obviously, because we adopted Ollie together. we both went into a little shelter up in New York one day 2 years ago. I could still remember what the lady who stood at the front counter looked like. How she greeted us with a friendly smile and led us to where the cats were held.

In the last kennel area sat the tiniest gray kitten, who was maybe 3 months old. The woman had told us 'Yeah runt mama didn't want it, so the foster parents gave him to us' That little runt became Oliver, which was later shortened to Ollie. Ollie was our child; Andy adored that cat, and I always felt a little guilty that Andy didn't see him anymore. But Ollie was my cat, my name was on the adoption certificate and, to be fair, Ollie did like me a little more.

"Really?" I ask, head cocking to the side a bit innocently. I've had two other separate relationships after my breakup with Andy and neither man was like Joel. By the end of Andy and I's relationship, I had grown accustomed to being in a relationship that drained all the life out of me. He became physically and emotionally distant and I just thought that was what happened after being in a relationship for so long.

He couldn't stand people asking him about me during the press. He couldn't even stand my name being said in the media half the time. It was like he didn't know he was dating someone famous, or maybe he had convinced himself that I wasn't, or that he was a bigger star than I was. The other two men named Harry and Tom, were both fine. They both had faults, but so did I. Harry, and I's relationship ended over him thinking the entire thing was just sex, and Tom we just didn't work out. But both relationships didn't last more than 2 months.

Neither man cared much about my family or my life. I think they both sought after me for fame. Though both were in either the music industry or acting, both couldn't handle being with a woman who the media referred to as a 'global superstar'. they got with me because I was a 'global superstar' but couldn't handle the fact that I was, in fact, a 'global superstar'. but Joel embraced it, he liked the public hand holding the kissing he was okay that I was a little more famous than him, he was okay with the questions, and he didn't act like I didn't exist when my name popped up in a conversation.

I couldn't blame Andy for wanting a private relationship. Everyone wants some type of privacy when it comes to romance, but I just didn't want everything to be hidden. Just because both of us were famous didn't mean we couldn't be normal people if we wanted to. We could've held hands on the street. He could've kissed my cheek while out for dinner, but he never did. It was like he was ashamed of me in some sort of way.

Sometimes I'd hear him talking shit about me while off on set, like I was a high school acquaintance instead of his girlfriend. His costars would tell me how he said I was too much, or too little, or just an absolute bitch. I never truly shook it off. I'd try to, but it never truly went away. It was always buried deep within me like a scar on my heart, and each time I'd hear another insult, or he'd push my hand away or ignore me, another one was added until I couldn't take it anymore. By the end of that relationship, I couldn't even tell if he loved me or hated me, so being with Joel was a change. He cares so much that it's mind-boggling.

"of course," he says as he turns down the street that leads to my house. I ask abruptly, "Why?" it shocks me when I say it because I didn't even mean to ask out loud. He chuckles a quiet "Why?" as his left brow raises. "Cause I want to spend some time with you, and if Ollie can't spend the night alone, just bring him along. I don't mind," he whispers. He's turning into my driveway when I ask, "Can you come help me, y'know get the stuff he'll need for the night?" he nods muttering a quiet "Yeah sure" before we're both unbuckling our seatbelts and walking towards my front door. His hand is quick to grab mine. His much bigger hand makes mine look extra small compared to his, despite my hand being way bigger than even just small.

His thumb softly caresses the top of my hand as I pull my key out of my pocket. Using my unoccupied hand, I unlock my front door and push it open. Ollie immediately greats me with high-pitched meows as he takes turns rubbing up against our ankles. "Hi Ol's," I coo as I crouch down to pick Ollie up. he lets out a quiet meow as I lift him off the ground and raise him above my head. "Hi handsome, hm. Did you have a good day?" I coo as I press him against my chest before standing up to my full height once again.

Ollie meows, as if he's responding to my question. "Yeah?" I place him on the ground. "Let's go find your stuff," I whisper. Joel and Ollie trail behind me as I walk up to my room. Ollie had his very own bag that came along with us whenever I traveled. It contained a small portable litter box (and a small bag of litter) food and water bowls, toys, and food. It's a larger duffel bag that tended to get heavy as more and more things got added to Ollie's must-haves list.

After a while treats ended up being thrown in the bag, as well as a small little barrier I could put up in hotel rooms so he wouldn't destroy the whole room, and brushes after I learned I needed to brush out Ollie's coat at least once a day. The barrier plush the litter, litter box, and bowls got heavy after a while. That's why Joel was here. To carry it.

"Should I bring some clothes? y'know, to sleep in and stuff?" I ask. He shrugs "If you want but you can just sleep in my clothes, but maybe some clothes to wear tomorrow" I nod, agreeing as I walk over to my closet. I picked out a pair of white sweatpants and a cute band tee before folding it up and throwing it in Ollie's bag.

"All right, I think we can leave," I said as I finally successfully got Ollie into his carrier. I let out a soft sigh of relief as I lift the carrier off of my bed. "alrighty let's go," Joel mutters as we begin to make our way out of my room. Ollie meows from the carrier as his little paws force themselves through the metal door.

Once we're in Joel's car, Ollie's carrier is in the back seat, but he makes it known that he is uncomfortable the entire ride there with loud cries for help. "Ollie baby, we can't let you out yet" I'd coo trying to comfort him but deep down I knew he didn't understand one word I was saying and was fully convinced he was getting kidnapped by some stranger. But once he is released into Joel's house, he makes himself at home on his large spacious couch, completely forgetting about his worries about being kidnapped just a few quick minutes before.

I set up the travel litter box and food bowls before Joel and I made our way up to his room. At first, I was concerned that Ollie would be confused and think I was leaving him at some randos house, but once he was on that couch it seemed as though all his thoughts had floated away. Joel's hands are immediately all over me once his bedroom door is closed. When his lips touched mine, it was like nothing else mattered but him and I. Everything else disappeared. "god Joel, it's like you haven't touched me in a year" I giggle before he pulls me into a heated kiss. He grunts into the kiss as he pushes me down onto his bed.

His lips trail down my neck, and then to my chest before we're very rudely interrupted by scratching at the door and loud cry-like meows. Joel groans as he debates fully ignoring the cat and continuing his attack on my neck and chest. I almost convinced myself to ignore Ollie too until there was one more loud cry and a few soft scratches. those few scratches pull me back into reality. I can't just leave him out there. "sorry Joel," I mutter as I push him off of me. I give him an apologetic frown as I stand up and walk over to the door. I open it and Ollie struts in like he owned the damn place. He lets out a few happy chirps as he rubs his head against my calf.

We ended of our night a little unexpectedly. The night was supposed to be a little more intimate. but instead we ended off our night with soft sweet cuddles while Ollie was curled up at the end of the bed. I can't help but think that I might like the cuddling better. the domesticity of cuddling up in a large comfy bed with my boyfriend while my cat is purring at our feet sends butterflies to my stomach and warmth to my cheeks.

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