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darkficsyouneveraskedfor · 5 years ago

Text

She [3]

Warnings: non-consent sex (series)

This is dark! Steve and explicit. 18+ only.

Series Synopsis: Steve Rogers’ life is turned upside down by a reporter.

Chapter Summary: The reader finds herself at the center of even more unwanted attention

Note: This is a slow slow creep but that’s always the best kind. Thanks everyone who is reading this. The series is in full 10 chapters and they are all DONE! So we will have a smooth ride from here on out.

Thanks to everyone for their patience and feedback. :)

I really hope you enjoy. 💋

<3 Let me know what you think with a like or reblog or reply or an ask! Love ya!

Reader

The morning was more hectic than any before. There was a brief lull, right after the story drop. The long wait for the verdict. Was it a hit or a flop? You sat at your desk, typing away at your latest assignment. Nothing so glorious as the famous super soldier. Merely a fluff piece on a local foundation for children in need. The usual fare.

Then it began. The comment section on the article was overwhelming and the coverage of the printed article was just as fervent. The Google alerts on your phone threatened to drain the battery and the stationary phone on your desk began to flash. You answered.

“My office. Now.” Poppy’s demand was followed by a click.

You stood and tucked your cell up your blazer sleeve. You knocked on her transparent door and she waved you in as she remained sitting. One leg was crossed over the other as she leaned back and swiveled back and forth.

“Do you know what you’ve done?” She asked. Your eyes rounded. “You’ve set the world on fire. I have been on the phone all morning and who do you think I’ve been talking about?”

“I don’t--” You began.

“You. And Steve Rogers.” She trilled. “Even heroes must be mindful of the press.”

“What do you--?”

“Tell me haven’t been divulging in all that praise, hun,” She chimed. “What are you working on right now?”

“Um, well, I just went down the Centre for Advocacy and Assistance and I’m--”

“Drop it. Throw it on an intern’s desk,” She interrupted again. “You’ll be much too busy for that.”

“What do you mean?” You stood just behind the acrylic chair.

“Interviews!” She almost shouted. “Everyone wants to know what it was like to face down Captain America.”

“Interviews? No, no. It wasn’t like that.”

“You know what you wrote,” She jabbed a pointed nail in the air. “I think you might be as hot a commodity as he is.”

“I don’t want to be interviewed.” You said. “I’m a reporter. I don’t--”

“This is an opportunity,” She insisted.

“It’s one article. I can’t just depend on that.” You said.

“Think about it.” She said. “Even so, clear out your desk. We’re moving you to the features department. I hope you know what that means.”

You nodded. That was a win at least.

“Long hours. Better pay.” She leaned an arm on her desk. “But it’s hard work. One wrong pitch and your back down to blurbs.”

“I know,” You assured her. “Thank you.”

“Thank me if you make it a year,” She adjusted her glasses. “And keep those eyes open. You might not want the attention, but you’re going to get it.”

🖋️

You headed out for your usual midweek lunch. As you stepped out the front doors, you were surprised by a lens. In your effort to find the card to collect stamps for your sandwiches, you stumbled and your bag fell to the pavement. You knelt to gather the scattered contents and quickly righted yourself.

You flitted past the photographer as he called after you. “Miss, miss, are you afraid of Steve Rogers?”

You rolled your eyes at the question and dipped into the sandwich shop. You got your usual turkey club on rye but not to go. Instead, you ate in, still on edge at your run-in. As a member of the press, it was startling to get a taste of the other side. You were determined in your work, but never the one to unnecessarily hound a subject.

You wiped your mouth and sat back as you checked the time. You wondered how bad it was for him. You had underestimated yourself; your article. You had ignored Poppy’s prediction that the article would be a best-seller and let your self-doubt get the best of you. And now, it was all a mess.

You hadn’t meant to villianize Steve Rogers, merely humanise him. To make him more than the man behind the perfect smile and golden hair. You thought a glimpse into his internal dilemma would be grounding, not ostracizing. You were wildly mistaken.

You tidied up and threw away your garbage. You set off back to work and passed another photographer, her curly hair barely contained under a wool cap.

“Miss, why did you smear Steve Rogers?” She asked as you tried your best to ignore her. “Can you confirm--”

You hurried through the front doors and tripped on your own foot as you entered the lobby. You cursed under your breath and caught the elevator before it could close. Your bag shook as your phone began to dance once more. You cringed and gripped the slender strap of your purse. You didn’t feel too sorry for yourself, you were sure it was much worse for him.

🖋️

The rest of your day dragged on. You were greeted by the same probing photographers but evaded them in the subway. The crowded train had you even more on edge than usual. You kept your eyes on the phone, your notifications muted but for your work e-mail. You played the little farming game as you waited for your stop.

The same walk as any other day. Short but it saw the sky greying by the time you reached your building. Your keys jingled with the overzealous keychains and attachments, an empty bottle of sanitizer clung to the mess.

You climbed up the stairs, one at a time. The wood was old and warped beneath the mats. Your door jammed and you fought the thick barrier until you forced your way inside. You flipped on the lights and locked the door behind you. You kicked off your shoes and dropped your purse. You wriggled out of your blazer and stretched as you looked around the cramped space.

You went to the buzzing refrigerator and pulled out your leftover shawarma plate from the night before and a can of sparkling water. You popped open the styrofoam and took out your phone. You leaned on the counter and at the chicken and rice cold and scraped up the last of the pickled turnip and cabbage.

Poppy wanted you in early the next morning. That couldn’t be good. Your junk box was quickly filling too as you redirected e-mails from your cohorts asking for statements and explanations. You didn’t feel the need or desire to justify what you wrote. It was the truth.

You thought of how quickly the meeting with Steve Rogers had turned tense. The mere mention of his old friend was enough to rile him but you had continued to poke. Well, that was your job. To follow the scent until you could latch onto the sinew of a story.

You tossed the container and went to the couch. You turned on the television and stretched out. You listened to the re-run of an early 00s sitcom and your eyes slowly closed. You were exhausted and expected to be more so after tomorrow. You only hoped the news cycle spat you out sooner than later.

You turned onto your side as the breeze rattled the fire escape outside your window. You switched the channel as the credits rolled and yawned against the pillow. As tired as you were, you knew you’d spend too much of your night on the couch; wakeless and watching episodes you’d seen a dozen times before.

🖋️

You knew something was off as you walked into the office. It was earlier than your usual start time but several others were already at their desks. You wondered if a few had even left the night before. You passed your old desk and looked at your vibrating phone.

‘Where are you?’ Poppy’s text popped up and you didn’t even stop to stare at the shell of your former workspace.

You continued onto her office and froze as you peered through her transparent wall. A man stood by her desk, his back to you and a bald head with a crooked thin strap around it. His long leather jacket hung to his knees and Poppy sat upright as she watched him tinker with the hummingbird ornament she kept on the corner.

You held back a gasp and continued forward. You raised your fist to knock but Poppy caught the movement with her seafoam eyes. She pushed her glasses up her nose and waved you in impatiently. The man turned to watch as you entered.

“Hey?” You said confused. “What’s--”

“Ma’am,” The man interjected and looked back at Poppy. “This is her?”

Poppy nodded as her lips formed a thin line.

“Hello, I’m--”

“Nick Fury.” You finished for him. “And I assume you know who I am already.”

“I know who everyone is.” He assured you and held out his hand. You shook it and felt a crushing strength in his grip. “And you know why I’m here?”

“About the article but I don’t know what you would want from me.” You said.

Poppy’s eyes widened. You’d never seen her so rattled. It was usually her doing the rattling.

“A conversation.” He said. “I understand you must be busy but I’m certain you can spare me a couple minutes.”

“I guess,” You shrugged.

“If you find yourself too busy, I can return with a subpoena.” He offered.

“A subpoena? Really?” You blinked at him. “I don’t think that’s necessary.”

“I would agree,” He put a hand on his hip and you spied the sidearm there. Was that intentional? “Is there somewhere private we might talk?”

“Take the conference room,” Poppy offered. “Just over there.” She pointed through the wall.

Fury nodded and you turned back to the door. He followed, his boots heavy on the floor behind you. You led him to the conference room and he closed the door swiftly. You didn’t sit as he began to pace around the long table. You stayed by the wall and hugged your purse.

“Look, I don’t know what you want. The article’s already out there and I didn’t write anything by the truth.” You said nervously. “I can’t control how people react to--”

“You have the recording still?” He asked as he stopped sharply. You nodded. “Good. Can I listen?”

It wasn’t really a question. He stared you down with his single eye and you took out your phone. You searched the files and hit play. You set the phone on the table as it began. You listened silently as your voice began and Steve replied.

The conversation filled the airy conference and Fury crossed his arms as he listened. He wasn’t happy as Steve’s tone deepened and his words turned venomous. You felt a chill roll along your spine. You’d almost forgotten how hateful he’d sounded. You felt as if he was there now, his eyes boring into you as his lip curled.

As it ended, Fury nodded and rubbed his chin.

“Well,” He snatched your phone off the table. “Thank you.”

“What?” You neared the table as he tucked your cell in his pocket. “Wait, that’s my phone. I need that!”

“Your phone? Under the authority of… well, me, I am seizing it.” He declared. “For your security and every one else.”

“You can’t be serious.” You huffed.

“I can’t have this leaking.” He said. “I hear Best Buy’s having a promotion on iPhone’s. Looks like you need an upgrade anyways.”

You frowned and kept your lips sealed. He didn’t need to know about your cloud back-up. You’d have enough time to download the file before he could find it for himself. You rolled your eyes.

“Is that it?” You asked.

“I got what I wanted, like I always do,” He said. “But there is one more thing.”

You watched him. He was worse than any nosy photographer or internet troll.

“I don’t take these things lightly. You’ve sidelined one of my best men and compromised my team.” He hooked his thumb in his pants pocket. “But we’ve taken note of you and we are always vigilant of our enemies.”

“Enemies?” You shook your head.

“I suggest you steer clear of any public statements,” He warned. “Or I would consider some legal representation in the near future.”

You squinted at him in disbelief. You rubbed your forehead, tired and unprepared for your early morning interrogation. You still had a full day ahead of you.

“Are we done?” You uttered. “I know my work isn’t as important as yours but I do have a job.”

“For now,” He said. “The public has a short attention span, miss, I suggest you find a new subject soon.”

With that he rounded the table and left you in the conference room. You sighed and grabbed the back of a chair. What the fuck were going to do without your phone?

🖋️

With your back-up done and a five minutes crash course in being a features writer from a new cohort, you felt entirely lost. You hid the flash drive in your purse and headed out on the guise of research. No one seemed to care very much, they all just thought you were off to search out a pitch to keep hold of your new position.

What you were truly off to do was sit in line for one of only three mobile associates at the electronics shop. When it was finally your turn, you asked for the most affordable yet reliable option. You brushed away the offer for the latest Apple shill and walked out with something a lot more comfortable next to your wallet.

You dreaded a return to the office. You were thankful for your sudden step-up as it meant a longer leash. You could check in once a week at most as long as you presented something to explain your absence. You weren’t so concerned about that anyway.

You were more worried about getting this phone set-up. Oh, and creating new accounts because as it was, Fury and his people now had every drop of info on you. That meant, at some point, you would have to visit IT and get a new ID. For now, you forwarded all your messages to your new private e-mail and stopped by the coffee shop around the corner from your building.

You hated this new normal. Not only did you have to be aware of those who thought they could jump on your cloud, but those who would label you an enemy of the people. You were certain Fury would be keeping tabs on you and judging by the influx of bings from your phone, you were fairly certain the blow back was building by the second.

You didn’t bother delving into the chaos of the comments section. People arguing with each other over your exposure of the heroes versus those who felt it was a betrayal and misrepresentation. You had never expected the spotlight to include you but you were centre stage alongside the American hero. You only assumed it was much worse for him.

You thought on what Fury said. ‘Sidelined’. Did that mean Steve Rogers was no longer an Avenger? Had he stepped down or been forced out? Hmm… you were tempted to dive down that rabbit hole but did the flames need any more fuel? And yet, it was your job to prod and poke at the vague.

However, it would be better to steer away from that and not rely on that one trick. Besides, you didn’t truly think there was anything particularly deceptive about Steve or his associates. They were secretive only because they had to be. They were doing their jobs as you did yours.

You sat by the window and picked at the curled lip of the paper cup. What would you pitch then? If you couldn’t grasp onto your momentary high, you might find the way down steep. You leaned your chin in your hand and watched the steam rise. The door chimed and you kept your eyes on the dark brew.

Maybe it was best to move along and sniff out your next bone. It would help you forget about the mess you had created while keeping your career alive. The only thing you could do was move forward and hope that this was all just buried by the next headline.

#Steve Rogers #dark steve rogers #dark!steve rogers #steve rogers x reader #dark steve rogers x reader #dark!steve rogers x reader #dark fic #she #dark!fic #fic #series #au #mcu #marvel #captain america

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lovemesomesurveys · 4 years ago

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“spin me around like you did when we first met”

What do you have to shave more often: legs or armpits? I rarely have to shave my legs because hair doesn’t really grow there.

If someone gave you a broken car, would you be able to fix it by yourself? I could take it somewhere or ask family members who work on cars, but no I have no idea about car repair. I know nothing. I’d like to not be given a broken car in the first place, though...

Have you ever seen a tornado? Nooo.

Do you have any pet chickens? No.

Does the color red look good on you? I don’t think I look good in anything in general.

Do you have any of your Easter candy left over still? Ew, it’s November.

Do you have blue eyes? No, I wish.

Do you have big or small ears? Small.

Do/did you enjoy it when your school would have pep rallies? I did enjoy the pep rallies.

Do you leave everything to the last minute? I’m a PROcrastinator.

Can you hula hoop? Nope.

What color is your keyboard? Black with white lettering.

Do you know someone who has two different colored eyes? No.

Do you like meatloaf? Meh, it’s alright. I like it paired with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Do you pray before every meal? No. I tend to forget. :/

“I’ve been waiting all day, for you to call me baby”

Do you have any goats? No. I don’t live on a farm, so I don’t have chickens or goats or any farm animals.

Can you stand on your tippy toes? No.

Do you live across from a corn field? No, I live across from other houses.

Is your driveway stone? Nope, it’s cement.

Do you like the lemonade Vitamin Water? Yeah. I haven’t had that in a long time, though.

Which is worse: losing your memory or have to be in the hospital for 3 days. Uh, I’d say losing my memory... that’s kinda a huge deal.

Would you ever go to a Lady Gaga concert? Sure. I bet it would be fun.

How many black tank tops do you own? I have a couple black undershirts.

How many pages do you have bookmarked? I have 8 on the bookmarks bar at the top, but that’s it.

Is your age an odd or even number? Odd.

How often do you use the toilet? Uhhh I don’t know, however many times I need to.

Is your best friend older or younger than you? My mom is 23 years older than me.

What color is the back arrow at the top of the page for you? Black.

How many shirts of yours are red? A few.

Have you heard the song Brokenhearted by Karmin? Yeah.

“Tell me how to get back, back to summer paradise with you”

What's something in you room that starts with the letter P? Pillows.

Are you good at pulling pranks? I’m not a prankster.

Do you play Xbox? No.

Can you do a black flip? Nope.

Were you ever on student council in school? No.

Do you have any pets? I have a doggo.

Do you hate when a teacher calls on you and you don't know the answer? That always used to bother me and make me super self-conscious, yes. <<<

When you're sad, do you only listen to sad music? If I listen to music at all, yes.

Have you ever touched a fish? No.

Is your mom's birthday in February? Nope.

Are you hungry right now? No, I had ramen not too long ago.

When's the last time you laughed? Yesterday.

What does your dream prom dress look like? My prom dress was white with gold specks.

Do you still have a Facebook? Yeah.

Do you like Twix candy? Yes. I don’t recall the last time I had one, though.

“We are, the same”.

Do you play the game Draw Something on your iPhone etc..? I used to be obsessed with that game. It was pretty popular a few years ago.

Does your house have two kitchens? No.

Are you a slow or fast runner? Slow.

True or false: You have brown eyes. True.

If you had dark hair, would you get blonde highlights? I had blonde highlights for several years.

Do you have a nickname that you don't enjoy? No.

Do you enjoy chicken noodle soup? Nah.

Do you hate missing school? Catching up on what I missed could be annoying, especially if I had to miss more than a day.

Do you own animal print pants? No.

One of the best feelings in the world is turning in a test, agree? One of the best feelings in the world is not having to even take a test in the first place. <<< Hahah, for real.

Do you use tanning lotion? No.

Have you ever been hurt and then had someone tell you to suck it up? Yes.

Can people read your feelings like an open book? My mom is pretty good at that.

Do you know someone who has lost their entire memory? No.

Do you like turnips? No.

“Sometimes the only person that understands me is my friend that I tell nothing to”

Do you think your life would change if you were on the cover of a magazine? Yikes, I would definitely not want to be on a cover of a magazine.

Do you really think Monday's are that bad? They’re just another day for me now since I’m not in school or have a job.

Is there a movie coming out that you will be seeing for sure? There’s several I want to see whenever they do come out; dates keep getting pushed back.

Are you tired of the question "Are you single" on surveys? No, the ones about relationships annoy me cause I am single.

Are you sad that this month is almost over? It’s only the 5th.

Do you think you could give up eating desserts for a month? Probably. I’d just miss cheesecake.

Do you think your life would change if you switched places with a nerd? I am a nerd.

Do you think you could jump for an hour straight? No. Or at all.

Do you have a pillow pet? No, but I have a small keychain version. It’s a giraffe, of course.

Have you ever told someone something secret and then they told people? Yes.

Do you like Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal? Yesss. It’s one of my favorites.

Do you like ice coffee or it hot? Hotttt.

1-10 : how tired are you? 10.

Have you ever thought about being a rock star? No.

“Let’s be the same crazy people we used to be”

Have you ever woken up to a good morning letter beside you? No.

What color is the roof on your house? Brown.

Will you be seeing the movie the Hunger Games? I saw all of them.

Was your first job being a babysitter? That’s the only “job” I’ve had. I only babysat my brother and cousins, but I did get paid, so.

Is your nose stuffy right now? No, not at the moment, thankfully.

Would you ever get your nails done? I only got them done once. It was for my 8th grade promotion, so it’s been quite a long time. I don’t care to get them done and I don’t have any nails to get done anyway, ha.

Don't you hate when you type and get letters mixed around? It’s annoying.

Have you ever not accepted someone's apology? I’m pretty forgiving.

Does your car have a sun roof? I don’t have a car; I don’t drive.

When's the last time you went fishing? I’ve only done it once back in like 2005.

Have you ever thought about being a movie director? No.

When you get older, do you think you'll have short hair or long hair? I like my long hair, but a part of me does want to cut it short because I just don’t have the energy or motivation to manage or do anything with it.

Would you ever spend over $100 at one store? It happens.

Have you ever snuck out of your house late at night? Nope. I never snuck out of my house. I never wanted or felt the need to do so.

Have you ever danced on the road when it was wet? No...

“Hey, I just met you and this crazy, but here’s my number - so call me maybe”

Do you prefer the sunset or sunrise? Both are pretty.

Have you ever seen a tadpole? I feel like I probably have when I was a kid.

Do you ever miss Myspace? Nah.

Are you currently wearing a sweatshirt? No.

Do you like fudge sundaes? Sure.

Are you one of those people who wear sunglasses inside? I don’t wear sunglasses, ever.

Least favorite month? May-August.

Do you own a yellow umbrella? I don’t have an umbrella.

True or false: There is a 4 in the current time. True, it’s 4:01AM.

Has anyone ever said "Hello?" and then it all fell into place? Huh?

How much money do you usually receive for your birthday if any? My nana sends $20-$25 every birthday and Christmas. I sometimes get money from other family members as well.

How many famous people have you met? Two.

How long is your favorite song? I couldn’t choose just one favorite song.

Was it sunny out today? It’s only 4 in the morning, so it’s currently cold and dark outside. It’s going to be 81F today, though, so it will be sunny later.

Do you like classical music? I enjoy some of it, especially piano pieces.

#personal #text #survey #surveys

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saundraswriting · 5 years ago

Text

Need Some TLC Chapter 4: New Door

SUMMARY: Steve is a man with a door. Bucky is a man who is frustrated. You are oblivious. Time together opens you eyes to what having these two super-soldiers in your life means.

WARNINGS:

Masterlist // Previous // Next

The documentary was just about over by the time Steve sent a warning text to Bucky. Less than five minutes later, Steve came through the not-door.

"Hey, jerk. I found a nice heavy door. I also got bigger and longer screws to better fasten her door to the frame. It has a matching deadbolt too. I got three keys; one for you and me and one to hide somewhere. I made two copies of ours; one for her and one to hide. Can you help me with this door?" Steve propped up the door against the wall and emptied his bags on the counter.

"Thanks, Steve. You had the same idea I did. I want us and her to always be able to access each other's places. I do feel bad for breaking down her door. Y/N was very agreeable to everything. Except having F.R.I.D.A.Y. installed. She said she wasn't that important. As such she came up with the idea to come to our place if she gets this bad again. F.R.I.D.A.Y. can put up the safety wall until we or someone gets here." Bucky gently extracted himself from your grip and walked towards Steve.

"Buck, I told you, I'll do anything for the person who makes you smile again. To tell you the truth, I did a quick search on her. She's all clean, and all alone. The only child of only children, who live states away." Steve said. He had all the packages open and was getting everything set up. "No, I won't give you details. If you want to know more, talk to her yourself. We work just as weird hours, start small. Get to know her, even a friend will do you some good. Now, come on. I want to get this done before she wakes back up."

Bucky grabbed a screwdriver ad began removing the hinges and things. Steve put the hinges on the door. Half an hour later you had a perfectly functional and well fastened brand-new door shut and locked in place and deadbolt secured.

"Captain Rogers? Sargent Barnes? You're still here?" You furrowed you brows and pursed your lips. You must of woken up when the door shut.

" Of course. We told you that we'd replace your door. we just finished a few minutes ago. We discussed swapping keys. We printed them for you. We added your to each of our keychains and then we will hide them somewhere for emergencies. We won't abandon you. We promised." Bucky said.

"Sorry, Y/N. You made me cookies, that means you are one of mine. I don't let mine suffer or let them down or go back on my word. Sorry, sweetheart, you're stuck with us." Steve explained while testing your door and locks again.

"Oh, dear. To be considered a friend of the White Wolf and Captain America? What's a gal to do? Hey, do you think if I give Mr. Odinson and Ms. Romanoff cookies they'd consider me a friend? I could always do with more bragging rights." You teased. You threw a wink and laughed at the men's stunned and betrayed faces. "Kidding! I'm kidding! Sort of. I would love to met them, but I only share my baked goods with the neighbors. So you sweet tooth is safe."

"whew! Good. I was worried. They're our nighttime snack. and bargaining chip. What little bit we bring to the compound, get us many things." Steve said. His tone was light but his eyes were serious.

"And out of others." Bucky added.

"Well, I am glad you like them. And give you sway over others, because it is nice to know that The Star-Spangled Man with a Plan will resort to bribery if needed. If you ever have enough self-control, my cookies freeze well too." you said. "Anyhow, are you guys done fixing my door? Cause I'd really like a door." You got off the couch and rubbed your eyes hard enough to see neurons flashing.

"Yes, it is finished and done. the locks work fine with all three keys so we are good to go. Honestly though? You could do with some more sleep." Steve said.

"I know. but I can't. I have to sleep tonight or it will be terrible. I will be terrible. I have to clean up and do laundry. It would have been nice to get a few more hours this morning, but..." You trailed off with a shrug. "Being awake is fine too. I have to look at what I will need for food-stuffs. I don't know when I will be off again.'

"Is that really a good idea? Shouldn't sleep be more important? especially over cleaning." Bucky asked. He and Steve were in the kitchen cleaning up from lunch and the impromptu home repair. you came up next to them and pulled out scent spray refills and cleaning wipes and spray.

" I need to stay awake to get sleep tonight. I need to recharge for the next few days. I work 16 hour days the next four days. If I don't clean now, it won't get done. My apartment won't be clean, my food will spoil and laundry will pile up. Which ends up adding to my stress levels. I need to have my scrubs clean and sheets washed. I need things to be clean now so I can neglect it later." You said. You were very busy, yes; but not too busy to let filth turn to squalor.

"You have a point, several actually. But Y/N, four 16 hour days? Isn't that biting off more than you can chew?" Steve asked. He had packed up the stuff for the door and began trying the dishes that Bucky was washing.

"Probably. But no one wants to pick up General Care shifts. Our patients turn over is high and very drastically. Anyone over 18 can technically be on my floor as long as they don't need a specific unit like cardio, neuro or burn or children or psych. But even then, if they overflow and need a bed and I have one, can't turn them away. I am also desperate for money. I like to have extra for anything. I like having all my bills paid and in all honesty? My mental health is not great so I sometimes work a lot to work through my depressive episodes." You said. you pretended to focus on a stain on you coffee table to avoid the worried looks you knew the two super-soldiers were giving you.

"Y/N,, we gave you a key to our personal apartment today. Only three people have one and you are looking at two of them. You help us everyday. We will be there for you too." Buck said from the sink. You still couldn't look at him but you could hear the promise in his voice.

" I know. But before you I was alone and after you I will be alone. I always will and do appreciate the two of you. Never ever forget that, no matter what. I just know how things work in real life. I know that I haven't seen my family in 5 years because I didn't want to go into business with my dad or be a lawyer like my mom. I know that no matter how hard you try, people lose contact, you drift apart due to life." You shifted away from the very clean coffee table and moved around to change the automatic scent sprays. "How about I clean my place up and when I am done we look at getting pizza and watching Disney or a documentary?" You're attempt at a subject change was not subtle but the men got the hint. Bucky narrowed his eyes and his jaw ticked. You knew this conversation was not over. You smiled softly to ease his tension.

"Very well, Y/N. Mark my words, you are one of mine and one of Steve's. There is no 'after us. Bucky said, firm and steady. "Now, can we help you clean?" Bucky lightened his tone to alleviate the awkwardness.

"No, Sargent Barnes, and Captain Rogers, that is incredibly outside your duties. I cannot allow you to help clean my apartment. You made me lunch and fixed my door, that you broke down saving me. I can handle my own tiding up." You waved your hands in a shoo-ing motion and shook you head.

"Y/N. Let me speak plainly. You are missing something here." Steve said, he could see Bucky getting frustrated with you obliviousness. "You are family. You take care of us when we have bad nights and are home. You bake for us when you can to cheer us up. You help acclimate us to the here and now, you don't mind when we get confused even if we should know it. You let us tell you stories of our childhoods. You are there for us through the rough spots. You make time for us no matter what. We want to be there for you too. We want to be you family as much as you are ours." Steve said. He was leaning against the counter, arms crossed, jaw clenched and eyes laser focused on you.

"We care for you immensely. We worry about you and want to help. We know that working odd hours affects everything else. You may think that you are alone but you are not. We have your back even if you don't think we do. There is no such thing as outside our duties, no request too big or too small." Steve continued. He seemed sad that this needed explained.

You paused in the midst of your cleaning to really look at the two men out of time in you living room.

Steve stood with his hands on his hips. He looked at you with concern etched in the lines of his face, lines that you don't remember being there before. Bucky was twisting his fingers avoiding you gaze. His jaw was clenched, like he was swallowing his words.

These two amazing men had only each other. The team, yeah but they had no one who let them relax. No matter where they went, they were always Captain America and The Winter Soldier. They are worry-ers. they worried about you and had before you said hello the first time and would if you had denied them your friendship. Captain Rogers and Sargent Barnes had lost their friends and family and even though the team and work helped fill that void the non-avenger aspects needed nurturing just as well.

If you were being honest with yourself, you need to nurture. A partial reason for being a nurse, you wanted to comfort people, help them heal. You also needed people in your life to help you remember that work and sleep and food weren't everything.

Captain? Sargent? I am honored that you consider me family. I consider you family as well. I am glad the two of you have my back cause I forget to watch it." You confess to the super-soldiers. You firmly met their gazes, squared you shoulders and lifted you chin. You exuded confidence and sincerity.

"Thank you, for being family and trusting us." Steve grinned, eyes and teeth twinkling with boyish charm.

"As long as you don't break another door of mine, we'll be fine. Now, I do need to clean up, so either settle or scat." you flapped you hands at them toward the door.

"We'll scat. We will be seeing you later." Steve came over to you and pulled you into a hug. He wrapped his arms around your shoulders and squeezed tight. You returned the hug with everything in you. he pulled away, lingering.

"You give great hugs., Or it has been too long since I had one." You teased.

"Ha-ha, I happen to know that I give amazing hugs. Also I may have added all the Avengers to you phone while you slept and gave them your number. Also I labeled me, Sam Wilson and Bucky as you In Case of Emergency contacts." Steve smiled sheepishly and quickly darted through the door to avoid retaliation.

"Steven, have you no boundaries?" You yelled at his back with a laugh.

"I didn't know he did that. Sorry." Bucky apologized from the kitchen.

"I don't mind. Just strange. I'll have to update my med kit here and my car and at work." You shrug with eyes bright.

"No one has really cared this much but that maybe stories for another time. Good night, Sargent Barnes. Tell Captain Rogers the same." You walked up and pulled him close for a quick hug. A fast squeeze around his shoulder helped release the last of the tension.

"Good night, Y/N. See you later." Bucky then headed out the way Steve did throwing one last smile at you before pulling the door shut and locking it with his key.

Masterlist // Previous // Next

************************’******************************************************************* Okay, reformatting is done for this series. I have one more that I am Needing to post and then I can move on to posting more chapters. Gosh, how do people do this day in and day out? This is so much work, which means you should show your content creators more love. :)

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes fanfiction #protective Bucky Barnes #bucky barnes fluff #bucky barnes x nurse! reader #bucky barnes x medical! reader #Need Some TLC fic #saundraswriting #saundrasrambles #saundrasays #Steve Rogers #steve rogers x tony stark #steve rogers fanfiction #Stony #avengers family #domestic avengers

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peace-coast-island · 4 years ago

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Diary of a Junebug

A week full of weaving, sewing, and embroidery

It’s been a while since I’ve done arts and crafts. Lately I’ve been focused on drawing - traditional and digital - and improving my skills in that area. Journaling helps a lot in terms of that, especially when I’m trying to come up with creative spreads so it’s not just a wall of scribbled words. It’s amazing to see how much your art style has shifted over the course of several months.

I don’t know if I’ve found my art style yet but I’m starting to see what I tend to gravitate towards. I still have a lot to learn and the possibilities are endless. Who knows what my illustration style will be like a year from now?

Until Cecelia came to visit the camp earlier this week I hadn’t realized that it’s been forever since I last touched my sewing machine. Back in the day I used to make plushies with Cecelia for her shop when it was just starting out. It was a lot of fun creating cute plushie designs and then bringing them to life with fabric, thread, and stuffing.

That’s what I love about art - taking a bunch of stuff and creating something new and unique with it. With nothing but a pencil and paper, anything’s possible!

Daisy Jane and Cecelia have been working together a lot now that Daisy Jane’s becoming more serious about opening her own shop. Cecelia’s been running Coconut’s Grove for over seven years, selling handmade goodies like jewelry, keychains, art prints, pins, stationery, and knitted goods. It’s a lot of work running your own business so mad respect for Cecelia being a pro at it.

To help Daisy Jane get some exposure as well as have a taste at what it’s like being an independent business owner, Cecelia wants her help to release some limited products for the holiday season. So for the past few weeks they’ve been designing notepads, clay pins, and sticker sheets.

By now most of the designs have been finalized so they’re pretty much ready for Cecelia’s next shop update. Daisy Jane’s art has really flourished since coming to the camp! It’s hard to believe that what was once a pipe dream for her is slowly becoming a reality.

With Cecelia here, I figured we should have an arts and crafts week. Since campsite events became a regular thing, arts and crafts day has been kinda put on the back burner. I didn’t realize how much I missed doing them until we started planning out this week.

Since I wanted it to be chill and low-key, I decided to spread it out to a week instead of just a weekend. I actually like it better that way, probably since my inspiration tends to come in spurts. So spreading things out over the course of a week gives me time to really get inspired as I prefer to think things over before starting. Also that means we can take on crafts that’ll take more than a day to complete like ceramics and textiles.

This week’s arts and crafts themes are embroidery, sewing, and weaving. Other than cross stitch, I’m a newbie when it comes to embroidery. I don’t know why, but I never got around to learning how to embroider. I mean, I can do some basic stitches like the running stitch and blanket stitch but for whatever reason I never actually made something. It’s just one of those things that’s always been on my to-do list but ends up getting lost in the shuffle. At least now I got to finally give it a whirl!

In a way it’s kinda like drawing. A lot more freeing and enjoyable than cross stitch - probably because I don’t have a pattern to follow. It’s been years since I’ve done cross stitch and maybe I’ll pick it up again someday, but it looks like today’s not the day. Speaking of which, my mom’s picked up the hobby again after taking a break for a couple years. Now she’s halfway done with the project she’s working on and it’s looking great!

Weaving’s a new thing for most of us, except Cecelia and Maple. I’ve done basic weaving like with paper and the elastic band thingies as a kid, but not like with legit looms and such. It’s fascinating to watch and learn about, as well as watching those threads weave together into fabric. It takes patience but the end result is worth it!

I’m definitely going to look more into weaving and textile making. I wasn’t sure if it’s something I’d be into but it’s got my attention. Maybe if I’m brave enough, one day I’ll tackle making an entire roll of fabric or a rug or something big. Maybe I’ll even try to make some intricate patterns if I’m feeling extra courageous. That’s something to consider in the future once I master the basics of weaving.

Sewing’s one of those things I occasionally enjoy doing even though I’m not the best at it. My mom’s like a professional, as in people - family, friends, acquaintances - used to pay her to alter clothes. She’s the reason why me and my friends never had to get our clothes taken to a professional - because she’d alter our clothes for free. For someone with short legs - like me and my mom - pretty much most of our pants have to be cut. Same with Daisy Jane, Emmaline, Robin, Serena, etc. - short people who would be constantly tripping over pant legs if it wasn’t for my mom.

Aside from making plushies, I rarely use my sewing machine. I’ve learned the basics of altering clothes from my mom so if I need to, then I’ll use the machine. For the most part I prefer sewing by hand just because it’s easier. Aside from fabrics the only other time I’d sew is for bookbinding, usually a basic saddle stitch or coptic stitch. I think I do a decent job at sewing but compared to my mom, my stitches aren’t the most straight or even.

I try, but sometimes it just doesn’t want to come out right. Maybe that’s why I’ve been so reluctant to try embroidery. At least with embroidery the crooked stitches add to the charm, which I quite like. I find myself drawn to an art style that’s imperfect and clearly handmade because I think it gives character.

In between crafting sessions, we enjoyed the fall weather as much as we could. It’s getting cold now and most of the leaves have fallen. Maybe I’ll pick up knitting again and make mittens, scarves, or hats. If I’m really feeling it, maybe I’ll finally try to make a pair of socks.

Is it weird that I’ve been knitting for like, what fifteen years, and never ever made socks. Like most people associate knitting with socks because socks are, well, knitted. Except a) I don’t really like knitting with four needles and b) I’m not into socks. Also the yarn I have on hand isn’t suited for socks. Speaking of which, what yarn type/weight do you use for socks?

The weather this week has been on the warm side, so I’ve been embroidering outside. I’m living out the cottagecore aesthetic - as if I wasn’t kinda already doing that by living at the camp. There’s just something so peaceful about doing needlework outside, especially when inspired by nature. I can now see why embroidery is associated with fall - it just feels right.

Think of all the possibilities one can do with a needle and thread! I’ve just opened the door.

#animal crossing #animal crossing pocket camp #Diary of a Junebug #headcanon ramble

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breadkneewrites · 6 years ago

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the world will live as one

MAJOR AVENGERS: ENDGAME SPOILERS. DO NOT READ IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BE SPOILED. Okay? Okay.

Tony and Natasha wait, hand-in-hand, on that tiny beach.

Tony let his bare feet sink into the cool sand. He can’t really tell what color it is, to be honest. Tan? White? A mixture of all the neutrals?

Trailing the soft beach, hands tightly clenched in his pockets, he thinks back to April.

Distantly, he can feel the way the power surged up his arm, crackling through his blood and bone. The press of dirty fingertips on his skin as Pepper and the kid tried to rouse him.

The kid.

Sometimes he thinks back to things he said, phone calls he ignored, and the constant buzz of Peter’s energy around the lab as he had him fetch this and that. What’s the kid up to? Did he start applying to MIT? Is he even going to college this year, or has Tony put a pause on all that?

What about Pepper? Morgan?

“Tony.” He doesn’t turn. There’s no need to. “You know, all you have to do is ask to see them.”

“Does that change anything?” He shrugs half-heartedly. “It’s not like they’d know we’re here. Out of all the times I considered the afterlife, which wasn’t very often, mind you, I didn’t think it’d be connected to the heart of the soul stone.”

Nat steps forward to join him at his side, her toes wiggling in the sand. She looks young, soft, and so, so carefree. Nothing like the assassin she once was, all those years ago. But that hardness, the way life treated her so harshly time and time again, still sits heavily on her shoulders and brings a hesitation to her eyes.

“Still, it’d be nice to know how they’re doing, wouldn’t it?” She swings her arms up into a stretch, eyes focused on the pink sky. “I check on them sometimes.” He starts to feel the way she’s starting to manipulate him, coerce him into checking in on those on Earth. It’s not unkind, but it stirs an anxiety in his gut.

“Bruce?” It’s a terrible thing to say, but it’s true. He knows she checks on the big guy sometimes, reminiscing in ‘what could’ve been.’

“Clint,” she corrects quickly, dropping her arms, “his kids. Your kid. Though I like to think you have more than one.” Tony glances at her from the side of his eye.

“I’m pretty sure I can keep count of my children, seeing as there’s nine months to be sure of it.”

A playful smile teases the corners of her lips. Usually, he wouldn’t be inclined to ask, but there’s not much else to do. Time moves strangely here.

“How many would you say then?”

“Three, I think, if you count Harley.” She looks at him with a disapproving glint in her eye. “You know it’s true. You treated Peter like your own.” He drops his gaze to his feet, suddenly wishing he had some sort of shoe on. He hates sand. The grit gathering between his toes shoulders memories of Afghanistan and blistering heat, the loss of a dear friend and return home to another.

“Alright, say I have three kids,” he says and crosses his arms, deciding to play along. “That doesn’t make it any easier. Dying wasn’t easy, you know that. Leaving them. Pepper. Doing it willingly didn’t mean a damn thing.”

She’s quiet for a few moments, the breeze buffeting their hair. It’s a lot longer now, reaching her mid-back. Briefly, he wonders if that’s where she would’ve kept it if she didn’t have to go on missions or be an assassin. Hints of blonde slip through the red, showing how much time she spends lingering in the warm sun.

“Sometimes I check on them,” she says instead. “all of them, and see what they’re up to. Peter’s gotten a new award in school. Built a killer robot, I hear. They say it’s named after you.” Nat glances over at Tony, smiling. “Something about that kid is familiar, though he doesn’t have as much of the dickishness.” He chooses to ignore that.

“Building robots, is he? As long as he’s sure he’s got all the right numbers down, and calculates the best way to shoot projectiles at just the specific speed to take down the others-“

“And you say he isn’t your kid.” All Tony can do is sigh.

The only reason he doesn’t disagree entirely is because it’s true. He does consider Pete as one of his kids, and he’s damn sure he and Morgan would get into shitloads of trouble. Pepper wouldn’t complain, she’d just give him that special, soft smile and give him another plate to serve burgers with, pressing a kiss to his stubbled cheek. Morgan would show Peter all of her special comic book collections.

…

“Mr. Stark, woah, she has like, all of them!” Peter gently gathers up all of the Spider-Man comics, pressing them closer to Tony’s face.

“I bought them,” he says, swatting them away and setting down two servings of his best dip and chips. “Do you know how hard it is to find that one in print? Had to ask all over and pull a few strings.” Peter stares at him in awe, even as Morgan leans over to steal one of his chips (despite literally having the plate he just sat down).

“That’s so cool! Thank you, Mr. Stark!”

“They’re not even yours.”

“Yeah,” Peter replies, shrugging. “But that doesn’t matter because she needs them more than I do. We can just read them together, yeah?” The question’s directed at Morgan, and Peter turns his head to point it at her, but Tony finds himself nodding along anyway.

A devious smile spreads across Peter’s face as he points at the advanced Nerf gun Tony as modified. Several of them, actually. “What’s that?”

“These are for after you’ve finished your food. Not before, not during. After.” Tony presses them further behind his back as he sinks a handmade tortilla chip into the dip. “Besides, both of you are gonna need the energy for this. It’s a fight you’re not going to want to miss.”

He pops the chip in his mouth as Morgan and Peter start shoveling their food in, excited for whatever he has planned. If Morgan gets a small, secretive wink from Tony, then so be it. They’re a team, and Spider-Boy’s about to get pummeled.

…

“I wouldn’t push, Tony, you know that, but I think you should check on them.” He feels the press of her palm on his arm, the urgency beneath the touch. “They can’t see you, you know that, but it helps to know everything is going fine. That they’re fine.”

He pats her hand, flashing her a pained smile. Despite his hesitation, the urge to see Pepper and the kids (he’s given up calling them ‘Morgan and the other two brats’ for now) pushes him to walk forward. The stone glitters awake at his presence, opening the door to reality just enough for him to peer through. Nat sticks to his side, having dropped her hand to grip his own in a comforting gesture.

Tony breathes in heavily and sighs. Then, he looks.

…

Peter nudged Ned lightly, pressing his elbow into his ribs. “Oh, come on man, you don’t mean that!”

“Dude, you literally spent all class staring at her. She’s not stupid. She saw you.”

“I wasn’t – no. I was reading the board?” It’s a weak attempt, and Tony cringes. Terrible liar.

“You’re the worst liar.” See?

“Uh, well, actually, I’m a great liar, seeing as you didn’t know about the whole ‘thing’ for a while.” Tony sees the devilish glint in Ned’s eye before Peter can, and it fades into one of innocence.

“What ‘thing’?” Ned drops his voice to a low whisper, glancing around anxiously. “Are you on your period or something?”

“Shut up, oh my god.” Pete runs a hand down his face in exasperation. “You know exactly what I mean.” He mimics the shooting of spiderwebs, twisting his wrist around like, well, an idiot.

“Oh, you mean that thing. I get it now.” Ned cracks his façade with a grin and earns himself a staggering punch in return. “Hey! That hurt, man, it really did.”

“Whatever,” Pete says, rolling his eyes. Tony watches as he stumbles on the stairs (Idiot, he thinks), and is about to pull back and rejoin Nat when he sees the kid’s bag. It’s slipping off his shoulder and swinging haphazardly as he slips on the stairs (which is definitely what’s pulling him down, since he refuses to wear it with both straps), but he sees it.

On a dangling keychain, glinting in the afternoon light, there’s a tiny arc reactor jostling about on the zipper.

Something about it has Tony’s throat closing up as he tries to swallow down the overwhelming grief and love threatening to surface.

God, he’d been so fucking stupid to think they’d just roll over his death and act like everything’s normal.

He keeps watching.

…

When he reaches Morgan, Peter’s already there.

(Time is finicky with the soul stone, it tends to jump either forwards or backwards with no real care for the viewer. Guess it’s technically not the time stone, but it gets the job done.)

“Hey, kiddo, what’re you doing up?” Peter lets the notebook stretched across his lap slip onto the carpet, tossing his pen onto the table as he stretches his arms out to wrap Morgan in a bear hug.

“You’re up.” Her voice makes Tony’s eyes sting, and it’s almost enough to yank him out of the scene, but Nat tightens her grip on his hand and helps him ground himself. He gives her a thankful squeeze in return.

“Uh, I was just doin’ homework and all that.” He swipes back a brown lock of hair from her eye, fixing her little bow with a gentle smile. It’s a smile only someone who was completely caring and loving could give.

“Robots?” She offers helpfully, her fingers toying with the zipper on his open jacket.

“Yeah, robots.”

They’re mostly quiet for a few moments, Peter rocking her back and forth with slight murmurings about his day, Morgan fiddling with his jacket and adding helpful commentary on the state of his school life.

“Do you think Daddy can see us?” Peter stops rocking. Tony can see the way his mind digests the question, trying to think of ways to reply in a slight state of panic. Fortunately, she doesn’t wait for him to reply, but instead rattles on, “I think so. Every time I eat a cheeseburger, I think of him. Happy says they’re his favorite.” Tony doesn’t miss the present-tense she uses. (It’s technically true, they are still his favorite.)

Peter rubs circles into Morgan’s back. “Mr. Stark wouldn’t go a day without thinking about you, kiddo.” He’s right.

But Peter, what about you? You’re my kid too.

Tony suddenly wishes he could push through and ask a question, ask Peter why he doesn’t include himself in this, why he thinks he wouldn’t be one of the kids.

Fortunately, he doesn’t have to.

“You too,” Morgan says suddenly, loudly, and sits up without warning. She nearly knocks Peter in the chin by doing so. His hand freezes on the small of her back, wrinkling her kitty pajamas. Her hair sticks up in clumps from leaning against his chest. “Daddy thinks of you too.”

“I’m not so sure about that, Mor, I think--“

“No.” Tony can hear the rise of her voice, the hint of a tantrum no one can shush or rock away. Terrible (beautiful, hilarious) memories of using cookies and rockets to soothe her wisp by.

“What?”

She takes one of her hands and presses it against his chest. Instead of where his actual heart would rest, on the left side of his body, she touches the center. Right where an arc reactor would sit, Tony thinks, swallowing hard.

Morgan’s fingers curl into a fist in his shirt. Tony can see tears welling up in her soft brown eyes, those that look just like his own. Peter wipes away an invisible tear, chewing on the inside of his cheek as if they’re his fault.

“You’re my brother,” she says softly, simply, as if it’s common knowledge. Peter lets it sink in before he nods, once, and rests back against the chair. Morgan follows suit, sinking her head into the crook of his neck with a sleepy sigh, and lets the wrinkled shirt loosen in her grasp.

“Okay.” Peter uses a hand to comb through her hair, humming the Star Wars tune like a lullaby.

“Okay,” he repeats, but she’s already asleep, so Tony’s not really sure who he’s talking to.

…

When he sees Pepper asleep in their bed, on his side, something in him cracks the cheerful, nonchalant mask he’s held onto for so long. Instantly, everything in him wants to crawl his way to her, to wrap his arms around her and press his nose into the crook of her neck.

Even like this, she’s so beautiful.

Her hair is stretched across the pillow, much longer now, and the moonlight highlights her skin just enough for Tony to make out her features in the dark. Looking at her is like staring through water, and all he wants to do is drown in it.

She can’t hear him. He knows this, but he tries anyway.

“I love you, Pep,” he croaks, slamming his fist against the invisible wall of the stone’s sight, rippling the scene. He’s momentarily worried he’s made it shut off, but it clears up to reveal her again. She breathes out slightly deeper, flipping her body to lay on the other side, and his heart clenches.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry, sorry, sorry. I shouldn’t have left you, but it was the only way. Strange said it was the only way-“ He breaks off, taking a moment to squeeze his eyes shut and inhale sharply.

“I love you.”

…

Leaving the stone after an extended period of time is like resurfacing from a bad dream, and he spends the next few seconds stumbling in a frantic haze.

“Tony!” Nat digs her fingernails into his skin.

“Huh? What – oh. Nat.” He leans forward (when did he sit on a rock?) and presses his face into his hands.

“It’s a lot to take in afterwards,” she supplies gently. “Sometimes, the stone won’t show me who I want to see, but who it thinks I need to.” Tony drops his hands to look up at her. “Who did you see?”

“Pepper,” he says first. “God, she was so beautiful.” Nat nods, sitting down next to him as he rambles on. “Then the kids. Pete, first. He was leaving school. Fuck, Nat, he had an arc reactor on his bag.”

“No one’s forgotten you, Tony, and it’s still not any easier for them. You were important to them.”

“Morgan.” Nat wraps her arms around her knees, drawing them closer to her chest. There’s a wistful look in her eye, and Tony vividly remembers her desire to have kids at some point. He continues on anyway, because he doubts she wants to talk about that now.

“Morgan was sitting with Peter in the living room, at our house,” he cringes at the ‘our,’ as it’s not entirely his anymore, “and it was pretty late. Morgan asked if he thought I could see them, or think of them. She called him her brother.”

“Well, he is.” Tony flashes her a crushed look, the weight of the events over his head. “Don’t look at me like that. You might’ve had Morgan with Pepper biologically, but you were the only father to Peter he’s had in a long while. Why do you think he called you, everyday, relentlessly?”

“I miss them,” he just says, breathing out a sigh into the salty air. She doesn’t answer, but reaches to take his hand. The waves crash against the cliff nearby, drawing their eye.

And they wait.

#avengers endgame spoilers #endgame spoilers #avengers endgame #endgame premiere #tw: death #tw: afterlife #not sure if that's a thing but lol #fic #irondad #spiderson #morgan stark & peter parker as siblings? yes #tony stark & peter parker #mcu #marvel #natasha romanoff #fanfiction #marvel fanfiction #idk anything else

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leelee10898 · 6 years ago

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Chikara: Zenshin suru (2/?)

Summary:Moving forward. At least thats what Ellie is trying to do. Meanwhile Colt finds trouble back home. Catch up HERE. If you would like added to the tag list, let me know.

Raiting: Mature. This series deals with violence, angst, death, sexual situations and bad choices. Read at your own risk.

Ellie sat up in disbelief oh you have got to be kidding me she flopped back down on the bed. "Oooh come on Ellie, its gonna be so much fun." Ellie rolled her eyes as she was lifted up off the bed. "Seriously Ingrid, how the hell did you end up in here? You had a different roommate." Ellie groaned, could her luck get any worse? A horribly emotional Thanksgiving, and now this, she was convinced someone hated her.

"Well," Ingrid flipped her hair and sat on ellies bed "I put in for a new roommate before Thanksgiving. She was horrible, she used to microwave liver, the dorm smelled like burnt rotten sneakers." She pointed her finger to her throat, making a gagging sound. "So they called with this opening and well, here I am!" She perked up. "Come on, there's a party tonight in the dorms across the quad, lets go."

"A party? God no. I'm really not in the mood to party, it was a long, long break and a long flight, you go on without me this time ok. " Ellie refused.

"No can do! I have watched you mope around this campus like a sad little puppy dog. It stops now! Get up, get your ass dressed." Ellie eyed Ingrid in disbelief, was she really going to allow her high school rival boss her around. She stared at Ingrid a moment longer, arms folded against her chest. "Fiiiiiiine!" She got up and started getting ready. Once she was fully dressed she grabbed Colts jacket and walked out the door.

They walked into the crowded halls of the building across the quad. The music pumping throughout, kegs in many of the rooms and almost everyone had a red solo cup in hand. "Want a beer?" Ingrid tried talking over the loud music. "No. I don't drink." She shouted back, Ingrid shrugged her shoulders "suit yourself." Ingrid paraded Ellie around, introducing her to so many people. She felt oddly out of place, but if she was going to try and move on, she figured maybe this was a start. What she wouldn't give to have Riya here with her now, but Riya was a little over an hour away at hartfeld. They were standing there talking to some girl Ingrid knew when two guys approached, one with Dark blonde hair, the other a brunette with stunning blue eyes. The girl walked away leaving the two of them, with the two guys. "Looking good Ingrid." The blonde smirked as he leaned in kissing Ingrid's cheek. "Kyle, this is Ellie. Ellie, kyle." Ellie gave him a shy wave. "Nice to meet you Ellie, this is my friend Nick." Kyle introduced the two.

Ingrid and Kyle were caught up in an intense, flirtatious conversation, leaving Ellie and Nick standing there. "So. You don't look like you want to be here." Nick finally broke the silence. "I'm not really into the whole party scene." She admitted. "Neither am I, I only came because Kyle wanted to see Ingrid." He chuckled as he stood next to Ellie. "Yeah. Ingrid drug me out. Still getting used to being friends with her, after being rivals for so long."

"Oh, so you two knew each other before college?" He quirked his brow, seemingly interested in having a conversation with her. "Yeah. We went to the same high school. Battled for valedictorian our senior year."

Nick leaned in a little closer. "And which one of you won it?" His voice low and Intoxicating. She bit her lower lip. Trying to stop the huge grin from spreading across her face. "I bet it was you. You got that smart and beautiful thing going for you." Her face was now beat red. "Beautiful huh?" She tried to even her voice, praying he didn't hear the slight tremor. "I call it how I see it. And you Ellie, are probably the most beautiful woman here." Ellie turned a deep shade of crimson, it had been a while since anyone flirted with her. She couldn't help but think about Colt, what he was doing in that moment, wondering if he even thought of her at all anymore. Ellie mentally reprimanded herself, she was trying to move on with her life, she needed to stop pretending that she and Colt were anything but a distant memory now. "Hey Nick, wanna dance?" Nick smiled wide "Lets do it."

****

California…

Colt climb off his bike and stashed it, he made his way quickly down the familiar street and ducked in the side through the loose boards. He had been coming to the shop here and there for a few months, ever since the heat from the FBI died down. He hadn't been in a couple weeks, he spent Thanksgiving break with his mom and he was itching to get back to the shop and continue his treasure hunt. He started in the back of the shop, mostly sticking to the private quarters. His pop wasn't like a regular blue collar guy, he didn't use a bank except for the legit auto shop account. Everything else he had was hidden in the shop like In the walls where one or more of his great grandparents installed a fireproof safe, Loose floorboards, hollowed out cabinets with a removable panel. Colt had found the deed to the garage, a copy of Kaneko's will leaving everything to him, the original he was certain in a safe deposit box somewhere, he knew he would have to piece clues together, it was what his dad did. He also found Several stacks of money, bonds and other property deeds.

He climbed the steps to Logans loft. He had yet to go up there, the bitter taste of Jealousy still thick on his tongue. He hated Logan from the moment he met him, he hated that a pretty boy was his father's prize poodle, he had the nice car, the good jobs, and he had Ellie eating out of the palm of his hand. He snorted, a smirk forming on his lips when that changed. He swore he could still feel the softness of her lips pressed against his, her arms wrapped tightly around him as they lost themselves in the pacific.

Colt walked through the room, stepping over debris, a gaping hole in the roof letting the moonlight shine in giving him some natural light.

He found a metal box under the burnt bed frame, he had to pry it open, not much inside except a few slips of paper and a flash drive. He checked his phone, 9pm. He had been there longer then he should. He pocketed the flash drive and descend the stairs to the bay. His eyes landed on something glimmering in the moonlight. He reached down to pick up the item, his heart caught in his chest as he realized what it was.

******

The day he took Ellie to her driving test, he wandered around inside the dmv, waiting for her to finish up. He knew she would pass, she was a natural. A rack of keychains sat displayed in front of him, he fumbled through them until he found the perfect one.

He waited outside as Ellie bounced out of the DMV, a freshly printed license in hand. "I passed, I passed!" She squealed as she threw her arms around Colts neck. "Congratulations. Here I got you something." He held out the silver crown keychain. Ellie looked between him and the key chain, as she took it out of his hand "thank you colt. But why a crown?" Colt shrugged his shoulders, "I'll tell you later, now come on let's get back to the shop."

*******

How did it get here? He knew Ellie had it on her keychain when she left for school, she hadn't been back to the shop after that night, unless. Unless she was there, sometime while he was away. He felt the lump in this throat grow bigger, she was there and he could have seen her. In that moment the need to see her, to feel her in his arms, to hear her voice, taste the sweetness of her lips. It was all too much to bare. He shook the thoughts from his head, she was at Langston, safely away from the crime ridden streets of LA, it wouldn't be long until he was with her again.

He put the keychain in his pocket, along with the flash drive and headed to where he stashed his bike a few blocks over. He kept looking over his shoulder, a nagging feeling he was being followed. He got to his stash spot, attempting to quickly climb on his bike and start it and thats when he hit him. Colt crashed to the ground with a thud, his bike coming with him. He had just enough time to roll as his attacker came down on him with a knife. He sprang to his feet, adrenaline coursing through him. His assailant charged forward, colt side stepping, grabbing the attacker by the arm, bringing his elbow down on his shoulder, the knife hitting the ground with a clatter.

The man clutched his shoulder, crying out in pain. "Wrong choice buddy. Guess you don't know who I am?" Colt spat as the man turned, baring a rage filled face. "I don't ask names, I do what im told." He circled Colt, looking for his opening when his fist connected hard with Colts jaw. The attacker grabbed the knife, as colt lunged forward, tackling him to the ground. Colts first landing blow after blow, the man lifted his hand, slicing into colts side. Fuck! Colt screamed out in pain, it only fueled his rage further as he screamed "Who sent you?" he screamed as he twisted his body bringing the mans arm behind him,incapacitating him. "Arg, not going. To tell you." Colt shook his head as he pulled his arm further behind him. "Ahhh. Wallace. His names wallace." Satisfied colt released his hold on the man, shoving him to the ground. "Of course he didnt give you a fucking name. The little bitch. He knew you'd never fucking do it." Colt circled the man, stalking him like a lion and he was his prey. The man looked up at him confused, A devious smirk played on his lips, "the names Kaneko." He let the name set in. "I'm thinking the letters M.P.C are flashing in your mind right now aren't they?" The man sat there, paralyzed in fear. "Now, you run and tell all your friends, that MPC still runs things." The man nodded his head and took off.

Colt clutched his side, the realization that he was hurt crashing down on him at once. He hopped on his bike, flying down the highway to the only place he could think to go.

He pulled up to a small house in a backwoods California town, Killed the engine and walked to the house. He reached the door, banging harder than necessary. "Colt. What the hell are you doing here?" The voice spoke through the latched door. "I know. I'm sorry but, its an emergency." He pulled his blood covered hand from his side. "I need your help."

Permatag

@kennaxval @hopefulmoonobject @crookedslimecreatorpasta @be-still-my-aching-heart @ao719 @speedyoperarascalparty @riseandshinelittleblossom @cocomaxley @bobasheebaby @ownworldresident @cordoniaqueensworld @indiacater @blackcatkita @darley1101 @hazah @desiree-0816

ROD

@daniv2278 @brightpinkpeppercorn @lovehugsandcandy @going-down-downtown @mercyparkcrew @emichelle @annekebbphotography @walkerismychoice @yesivefallenpreytothechoicestrap @zaira-oh-zaira @sweetest-marbear

@simsvetements @zaffrenotes @professorortegasstudent

@akrenich @ifyouseekheart @client-327 @choicelogansbitch @choicesarehard @paisleylovergirl @itskismetbb @itsmarleen

@rhischoicesfanfics @distinguishedsaladoperawinner @iplaydrake @coffeebeandragon @jasidu2 @charliezchan

@umiumichan @sarwin85 @skdskdskdskdskdsk @liamzigmichael4ever

@littlemissimaginativerhi @somebarbietingz

#chikara rod fan fic #ride or die bad boy romance #choices ride or die #choices ride or die: a bad boy romance #colt x ellie #colt kaneko #rod colt #colt x mc #i love colt kaneko #leelee10898 fan fic

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howtobeaconartist · 6 years ago

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10 Artist Alley Tips for Jewelers/Non-Print Artists

Originally posted by Allison of SnakeShedShop on AANI, and reposted here with permission.

👉Tip 1: Do not overcrowd your table. This is something I definitely got wrong at the first few shows I did. I wanted to show as much stuff as possible. Prior to doing cons, I did a lot of craft shows and other events, where I would have a full 10x10 space, so squishing down to a single table was hard! But too much on your table ends up being visual clutter. So now, keep things cleaner, because if someone is looking for a specific color or style, I can always say "I have more under the table, let me help you look!" Added bonus, it makes any customer feel special that you are helping them look through stock.

👉Tip 2: Make space on your table for people to set down a drink as they are paying. This goes along with the above tip and also good for print artists. People don't like to set their drinks on the floor, so they are going to set their stuff on your table whether you make space or not. It's just whether you want it on top of your stuff (eek) or on the table itself.

👉Tip 3: Encourage people to pick up your items. If your items are fragile, I get it that this tip may not work for you. But otherwise, I always pick up items as I talk about them and tell them they can as well. If someone touches or picks up an item, they are WAY more likely to buy it. I actually tested this theory at a small con once. If I encouraged someone to pick something up (and they did), they were over 10 times more likely to buy than if they just looked and did not touch/pick up.

👉Tip 4: Find a way to make your booth stand out with a unique display. I noticed early on that booths attracted more buyers when they had a distinct visual look rather than just a mish-mosh of stuff on the table. So I am currently working on this and at my next con I will be debuting a huge dragon nest with dragon eggs. Get creative and figure out what will work best for your brand. Unique displays really do help.

👉Tip 5: Get your item off the table. People scan a room at eye-height. So, figure out a way to hang them, just like print artists do. I use wire grids and risers to lift items off the table.

👉Tip 6: Mystery boxes! This has been a game-changer for me! The vendors sell them like gangbusters, so thought why not offer them as well. If you do stuff related to several different fandoms it may not work as well for you, since people would want a guarantee that they get an item from their fandom. But if you do mostly OCs or non-fandom stuff, it can work for you too. Bonus points, it is a way to clear out older stock. I always make my mystery boxes a "good deal" - for example, at cons where I sell dragon eggs for $20 and keychains for $15, I might do a mystery box that has one of each for $25.

👉Tip 7: Label your stuff with prices. People hate to ask how much stuff costs. Do bulk deals if they get 3 pieces.

👉Tip 8: Have a "B" sale - WHEN IT MAKES SENSE ONLY. I have a basket full of items that have flaws, which I sell at a discount, usually 50% off. But I don't put that basket out at every con. Here's why: when someone really wants to buy something from you, they often default to the cheapest things on your table. If I have the "flaw" basket out, they'll buy that when they otherwise would have spent more to get a keychain, etc. So I only put my flaw basket out on cons that are really slow or mostly kids/teens that don't have a lot of money.

👉Tip 9: Have a "one of everything" bundle deal. You could do this as a print artist too. I usually sell 1-2 per show at $150+ depending on the number of items I have included in the deal. Just make sure that you are still making a profit with the discount you offer. :)

👉Tip 10: Offer some higher-priced items. I know this one is tricky because it is more expensive to produce these items. However, let's say that you go to a big con and pay $300 for a table, plus spend $500 on the hotel room and $200 on food and gas. That's $1000 you have to make off the bat to even turn a profit. And note that doesn't mean you have to sell $1000 worth of items. I see people get this wrong all the time. You have to figure in the cost to make the items as well. So if you are selling $10 pins that cost $3 to make, you are really only making $7 per pin. In other words, you have to sell 143 items ($1430) to even make your money back! If you have some items that are in the $20-$50 range as well, it is much easier to reach your goal. Yes, you may still sell a lot of pins, but those large sales will really help.

#artist alley #displays #tips #lists #advice

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zhydoesart · 6 years ago

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Date Night (ch. 2/2)

Chapter One

Ships: DLAMP

Warnings: gender dysphoria, sympathetic Deceit

AO3

Side note: Expect me to post a lot in the next few days. I’m working on some plotless LAMP fluff and some more DLAMP.

On the way to their seats, Virgil had spilled his popcorn, so Patton had offered him some of hers, and now they were sitting next to each other so they could share the bowl. Meanwhile, one of Roman's arms had snaked around Logan's shoulders, and Logan was trying to pretend as though it hadn't happened so as to maintain his composure.

Virgil's's thoughts on the movie came in the form of wondering why they'd picked a cliche romance, whereas Logan secretly liked it. Roman's eyes were teary, as he'd always had a soft spot for love stories, while Damien simply watched quietly. However, Patton wasn't doing too well, as the sensation of her- no, his now- chest tightening began to creep upon him.

Patton tried to focus on the movie again—some Asian dude dressed like a pirate was declaring his love for an Indian princess—but to no avail. The hum began to build in his ears, and he had to get out of there.

Abruptly, Patton stood, running out of the theater, ignoring his boyfriends’ whispered cries of his name. He beelined for the bathrooms—at least there he could be undisturbed—but found when he got there that there wasn't a third bathroom—only 'male’ and 'female,’ and he couldn’t, he just couldn’t.

Instead of entering one, Patton turned around and ran—where to, he didn't know, but he halted as he noticed a little nook of sorts behind a cardboard prop, and he squeezed himself into that nook, knees pulled up against his chest as he rocked forward and back.

His phone vibrated in his pocket to a pattern of long-long-short, and Patton recognized the vibration pattern as that of Damien. Pulling his phone out to check, he read the message.

[Dee<3] why'd you run out like that

[Dee<3] what's wrong pat

[Dee<3] where are you? Virgil said to check the bathroom since that's where he'd run to hide but I checked the men's and I don't think people would take kindly to me going into the women's

Patton rested his head in his hands before replying.

[Patton] behind the cardboard cutout of The Rock

[Dee<3] I see you

A shadow appeared, and Patton looked up to see Damien looking down at them. After a moment he sat down next to Patton.

“So, sugar, what's the issue?” Damien didn't look at Patton as he spoke; instead his eyes traced the lines on the back of the cardboard, and Patton was suddenly glad Damien wasn't watching him.

Patton played with a loose string on the hem of his skirt. “I'm still wearing a skirt but I feel like a guy now, and I don't know what to do.”

“Hold on, I'm going to text Logan,” said Damien, pulling out his phone to type something. After a minute, his phone vibrated. “He's the closest to your size, and he says he's got an extra pair of pants in his car,” Damien informed Patton, who, once again, was very glad for his boyfriends. “He's going to bring it to you, and you can change into the pants, is that okay?”

“That's perfect, thank you.” Patton beamed. They were so close together now, and his eyes kept darting back to Damien's lips. He couldn't help himself. He caressed Damien's jaw, turning his face towards him, and they both leaned in as Damien closed his eyes.

Logan nodded as he spotted the cutout of The Rock Damien had mentioned, and he crouched next to it to see Damien and Patton locking lips.

“Guess Patton's not feeling too bad anymore.” The two broke apart at Logan's teasing tone, looking vaguely guilty. “Here.” He tossed the pants into Patton's lap.

“Thanks,” Patton said. Slowly, Damien stretched his legs as he got up, and then Patton crawled out from behind the cardboard.

He flashed Logan a grateful smile, but not without a sheepish demeanor.

Patton changed into the pants in a stall in the men's bathroom. He weighed the barrette in his hand for several minutes until finally slipping it into a pocket in case he wanted it later, but he kept the makeup on; Roman had done such a good job and he wasn't quite ready to wash it off yet.

When he emerged from the restroom, Patton found that not only were Logan and Damien waiting outside, but Virgil and Roman had joined them. Apparently the movie was over now.

They all stopped by Patton's car so he could drop off the skirt in the back, and then they headed to their next destination, which happened to be a surprise to everyone but Patton.

It was an old-timey, 50s-style ice cream parlor, complete with antique bar stools and booths. Roman exclaimed that it was “adorable” and Logan admitted he did like the “feel” of the place, whatever it meant when Logan said it.

Patton decided on a large bowl of chocolate ice cream, while Roman chose dulce de leche. After some debating, Logan eventually settled on green tea, Virgil got moose tracks, and Damien had butter brickle. (Logan had, of course, questioned the name of Damien’s choice of ice cream, and Roman had reminded him to “Loosen up, mi amor, it’s a date!”)

Somehow Roman had convinced Virgil to spoon-feed him his ice cream, and Virgil complied reluctantly for one spoonful, then went back to eating his own, even as Roman pouted that Virgil hadn’t done more. Patton quietly giggled as he watched.

Their third destination had been picked out by Logan, and happened to be an art museum. Logan had quietly admitted that he had a “secret soft spot for art,” since he himself claimed to be far from ‘good’ at it. It may have been an unexpected choice for a date location, but Patton was sure they all enjoyed some part of it.

Roman took it upon himself to pose dramatically in front of every large landscape painting, and kept calling to Damien to take pics, who did, rolling his eyes every time. Meanwhile, Virgil seemed to have a liking for some of the darker paintings and color schemes, which was a surprise to no one. Patton enjoyed the bright colors on certain paintings, as well as the abstract. He kept noticing Damien, when Roman wasn’t calling him over to be photographer, reach out a few inches away from some of the people-filled landscapes to brush his fingertips against air, while Logan could only state clinically and sometimes in very disjointed sentences what he liked about certain pieces of art, particularly several of the more modern sculptures.

While everyone looked around the gift shop, Patton discreetly purchased little gifts for them. For Logan, a space pen with the museum’s name printed on it, he was sure Logan would find the particularly balanced pen intriguing. For Damien, he’d managed to find a miniature version of one of the pictures he’d been so longingly gazing at, while Virgil’s was a keychain shaped similarly to a statue he’d admired. Last, for Roman, he bought a T-shirt in his size that read, “I don’t make art | I AM art,” which he knew Roman would love. He stowed the bags in his car, and they drove to the fourth location; this time only taking two cars as opposed to three.

It was dark out when they reached Virgil’s destination, and Patton could only gape at the brilliance of the stars, to the point where he tripped on his way up the hill. At the top, Virgil unrolled a large blanket he’d retrieved from his car, and they all picked a spot to lay down. Patton was in the center, Logan and Virgil on either side, with Roman next to Logan and Damien next to Virgil.

Patton, quite lost for words, gazed, amazed, up at the dark blanket of sky stretching out above them, marred only by the shining dots of stars freckling the navy blue expanse. Nights like this reminded him how small he was in the general scale of things, but all the same, he knew there were people who cared for him, to whom he meant a lot, and he smiled softly as he made out the quiet murmuring between Roman and Logan. Virgil’s warm hand slipped into his own, a sharp, yet somehow welcome, contrast from the chill air surrounding them, and Patton felt at peace, even as he felt himself slipping into ‘they.’

The last place they were going to go to was Logan’s house, courtesy of Damien. Logan’s family was fairly wealthy, so his house was huge, completely surrounded by wrought-iron fences, and Patton, despite having been there before, was still surprised that there weren’t gargoyles perched on the roof, guarding the house, ready to defend it if some unsavory person were to enter.

That was how the five ended up in Logan’s living room, cuddling on his couch, rewatching Parks & Rec for Patton’s sixth time on a TV wider than any of them was tall. There was easily more than enough space for them to spread out on the couch, but still, they chose to be close, packed in like sardines. Virgil’s hand was resting on Logan’s thigh, much to his distraction, and Patton was sitting in Roman’s lap, while Damien sat between Virgil and Roman, holding hands with both.

When Virgil fell asleep on Logan’s shoulder, Patton decided it was time to go to bed, and they all ended up curling up together in a gay mess of limbs in Logan’s gigantic, probably-expensive, rich-guy bed.

And Patton knew they would never be happier than in times like these, when each of their boyfriends was content, when they could all just be carefree and in love, and they hoped nothing would ever come between them and that ‘happy ending’ to their fairytale.

#sanders sides #sanders sides fanfiction #sanders side fic #sanders sides au #patton sanders #ts patton #genderfluid patton #virgil sanders #ts virgil #roman sanders #ts roman #logan sanders #ts logan #deceit sanders #ts deceit #tw deceit #sympathetic deceit #dlamp #ts dlamp

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cutiecrates · 5 years ago

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Cutie Reviews: YumeTwins July 19

Hello~ Welcome to our review :3 today we’ll be looking at the July YumeTwins. For anyone curious, my mom is doing very well and they said she could leave later today (Sunday).

“It’s finally summer time and with the weather heating up we hope you’re looking forward to getting outside and enjoying the sun! We had exactly that in mind when we put together this month’s selection of goodies for you. Isn’t it funny how when the sun comes out it somehow magically brightens our mood? We hope you’re feeling motivated and excited to get together with friends for a fun day in the sun or a Pool Party! Don’t forget to bring along your kawaii pool party items from this month’s box! Are you excited yet? We sure are! We hope you enjoy!“

(Just pointing this out for anyone new... I know people like sunny weather, but my mood improves when it’s rainy and cloudy out.)

Photo Contest

This month the winners and runner-ups could look forward to an adorable My Melody plush and chocolate-shaped pens!

Yume Prize

Meanwhile, Rilakkuma is our featured character in the special Yume Prize box. With several items perfect for bringing to a pool party.

Gudetama Sticky Notes/Pokemon Stickers

I know, you’re probably wondering “there’s no Gudetama though“, and I have a good reason for this. The booklet lists Gudetama Sticky Notes, but as you can see I didn’t get them. If I recall, this is because something happened and they had to replace them for some boxes... I’m not 100% sure, this was back in July when I looked into it.

Keep in mind things like this usually don’t happen- and since I can’t exactly remember why it did, I won’t fault YumeTwins for it. With that, let’s take a look at this cute sheet of puffy stickers I did get instead. There are 65 in total, featuring a variety of Pokemon and some pokeballs. They’re a bit on the small side, but that just means you can use a lot more :P

Although I don’t like tiny stickers, I do admire all the detail you can see in these. However, I noticed some of of mine have little itty-bitty smudges or markings, they’re also pretty hard for puffy stickers.

Kawaii Character Pouch

Our next item is a cute little pouch, which would come in handy at the pool for storing small items you can keep nearby. There was a variety of fun prints and Sanrio characters available. The one I got is an adorable Sumikko Gurashi pouch, featuring a pastel floral background and black details surrounded by the series name and writing that says “Day after day we have fun in the corner.“. There is also a light pink ball chain connected to this, giving you the option to attach it to various items.

Although I’ve gotten numerous pouches like this, I think this would be one of my most favorites. I love the floral background on it~ It’s well made, it feels nice on both the inside and outside, although I did notice its on the thin side, so I’m not sure it could handle a lot of abuse, or getting wet. Not sure.

Key Chain and Strap

To go with the pouch, we also get this adorable chain and strap piece that can be used as is, or you could split it into two portions and use both pieces separately if you wanted. You could even “cross swap“ the chains, so you could make the rubbery piece into a phone charm if you wanted. Like the pouch, these consist of various Sanrio characters partnered with various items they’re often found with, for example, besides Hello Kitty and her bow, there’s also Gudetama with an egg.

I love Hello Kitty, so I’m always a little disappointed when I don’t get her for items featuring various Sanrio characters~ Which happens a good amount of time! But this time I got lucky x3 I’m especially fond of Hello Kitty phone charms because back when I had a phone that could have them, I used a vampire Hello Kitty charm I loved more than anything. I still have it (and a Hello Kitty Frankenstein too, it was part of a Halloween series) but I can’t use it at the time.

As you can see in the picture, the details are perfect, the lines and colors are smooth and crisp, the figure is especially extremely well done for something its size and has a lot of details on it. The pose and item are obviously on the generic side, but I think in this case it actually works for the line.

Handy Mist Fan

A perfect summers item (and probably really fun at a pool :D), this adorable Sanrio hand fan comes in the shape of a star wand and is available in this hot pink and red various Sanrio mascots, or there is a pale colored Sumikko Gurashi one. Besides being a cooling hand fan that requires no batteries, there is a special feature that makes this one even more fun; it has a water mist function!

Initially I didn’t know that. but I did see the hole the water comes out, and had been wondering what the side tab did. I never really looked at the description until I began writing about it, and as it turns out you just unscrew the bottom and fill it with water. The tab on the side is for controlling this feature, and the water will mist out while you’re using it. There is also a long string you can use to hang this from your neck or various items.

This is actually a lot of fun! I usually don’t get that excited by hand fans because while they are cute, I find they either work or they don’t (or the breeze is so small you can barely feel it) so I wasn’t very sure I’d be satisfied. But it works really good, I was surprised by how cooled I felt while/after use, and the misting function is really strong, to the point you get water all over you. I can’t see this being an ideal winter toy, but it’s perfect for late-spring and summer!

Sailor Moon Jar

Next up is a pretty KiraKira Canister inspired by Sailor Moon that was available in 2 colors (pink or purple), both featured alternate images. But otherwise they have the same physical appearance. The jar has a diamond tile etching you can feel on the inside, and on the top of the lid is a gem. It’s also a decent size and the booklet suggests using it for things like candies, hair accessories, and cosmetics; which I think I will do. Lately I’ve been putting all my unique lip products from the boxes in the Sumikko Gurashi container I keep my earrings in and I ran out of room <3<

This is a pretty item that could come in a lot of handy in numerous cases, it’d also be the perfect gift for a Sailor Moon fan x3 The details make it extra-special, I like it a lot~

Kirby Inflatable Ball

This is our last item of the box, an adorable Kirby inflatable that also serves as the featured item this month!

This airy toy makes for a lot of fun at the pool or just as an inflatable yo-yo :3 it’s very fun to play with and was surprisingly easy to blow up for me -and I have asthma- although my cheeks still felt a little sore afterwards~

There is one downside I noticed, and I don’t know if its just mine, or if they all have this issue. I noticed over time Kirby seems to lose some air, and I don’t know if it has a hole somewhere -despite being kept in its packaging until I took the pictures- or if its meant to do that. It’s still playable of course, but it’s a minor concern.

♡ Cutie Ranking ♡

Content - 5 out of 5. We got some good, quality items this time! I didn’t notice anything messed up or sloppy (besides a couple Pokemon stickers), each piece was detailed and very cute/pretty and individually I essentially liked all of them.

Theme: 2.5 out of 5. Honestly this is where they fell a little short I thought... I mean, we only have 2 really obvious pool-based items in the box- but you could use them in multiple locations too, which is good. But while you could store small items to bring with you in the wallet and jar, who would actually bring these to a pool? Maybe to a poolside locker or hotel. The stickers/sticky notes and charm kinda don’t work for me theme wise, and all they suggest is using the charm as an accessory to the pouch. They could have just as easily included a water-filled charm or something to add more of the pool touch to it.

Total Rank: 7 out of 10. I really did like this box, would recommend, the only thing I had a problem with was that I felt like the theme could have been better. The theme suits summer strongly, it was just the items didn’t fully meet the theme in my opinion.

♡ Cutie Scale ♡

1. Sailor Moon Jar - I love, love, love it~! It’s so pretty looking and it’s a decent size so I know it will come in handy regardless of what I choose to do with it.

2. Hand Mist Fan - Great for cooling down when you feel particularly warm or just want to have some fun~

3. Character Pouch - I got tons of these, I didn’t need another one; but I love how it looks! Definitely in my top 3 of pouches I own, I’d be very likely to use it.

4. Kirby Inflatable Ball - As precious as Kirby is and as fun as this is, I’m worried over the air draining out of it, but I couldn’t find any holes. I’ll probably hang it up somewhere safe to make sure it doesn’t get one for now.

5. Keychain and Strap - I’m very happy I got Hello Kitty!

6. Pokemon Stickers - I don’t like repetitive sticker sheets, even though they do have their good points. And because a few of them got messed up I can throw them away with no remorse.

#cutie reviews #yumetwins #sailor moon merchandise #kirby merchandise

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sushigirlali · 6 years ago

Note

Bellarke + "Well that's pretty rude of you to say" and/or "Do you trust me?"

Prompt: “Well that’s pretty rude of you to say" and/or “Do you trust me?”

Pairing: Bellamy Blake x Clarke Griffin [Bellarke]

Continuity: Modern AU

Rating: T+

A/N: I had way too much fun with this one lol See if you can pick out all the references XD

——————

For: @craniumhurricane

Love: sushigirlali

Ride Or Die

——————

Clarke’slong legs burned as she barreled down the street, determined to evade capture. She’dalready been busted for graffiti twice, so if she got caught again, there was areal possibility she’d go to jail. Judge Jaha would just love that. He’sbeen looking for an excuse to lock me up for years.

Slingingher heavy drawstring backpack over her shoulder, Clarke briefly contemplatedtossing the evidence but knew she’d have a hard time defending herself in courtif the cops were to find it; her prints were all over the bag and its contents,after all.

Chancinga look behind her, Clarke realized that she’d managed to lose the officer who’dchased her from the scene. If she could get out of the area before he called inthe cavalry, she’d be home free.

“Now’syour chance, Clarke, move it,” she huffed, dodging pedestrians as she zoomeddown the crowded sidewalk. No one seemed to be paying her any mind, likelybecause her black leggings and mocha tank top gave the impression that she wasjust an innocent jogger, but it was better to be safe than sorry.

Cuttingbehind the next building she passed, Clarke crossed the road and entered adeserted alleyway, intending to put as much distance between herself andpotential witnesses as possible. But no sooner had she turned the corner than afigure in all black smacked right into her, taking her to the ground.

“Oof!”Clarke groaned, dropping her bag and landing flat on her back.

“Oh,shit!” a husky voice swore. “I didn’t see you there! Are you okay?”

“I—am—not,”she wheezed, trying to catch her breath as she stared up into the softest browneyes she’d ever seen. The guy who’d collided with her was braced above her onall fours, his wavy coffee colored hair flowing free around his handsome face. Well,hello.

“Sorry,”he said again, more softly this time, clearly doing some looking of his own,“I’m—“

Thecrackle of a nearby police radio stunned them both into silence. “This isOfficer Miller, requesting backup. We have two suspects on foot, heading westtowards Logan Circle. My partner and I were separated while pursuing them. Pleaseadvise.”

“They’reafter me!” they hissed in unison. Then, “Wait, they’re after you?!”

Confused,Clarke opened her mouth to start doling out questions, but her fellow criminal beather to it. “Looks like they’re after us, Princess, so what’d you do?” heasked with a conspiratorial grin.

“Princess?Really?” Clarke shot him a look, but answered anyway to expedite the situation.“All I did was tag some asshole’s car,” she said shortly, nodding toward her backpack.“You?”

“Swipedsome food from a fancy grocery store,” he replied. “Unfortunately, I dropped itall on the way here.”

Shecould tell there was more to the story, but now wasn’t the time to makefriends; there was no telling when more cops would show up, or where theofficer’s partner was. Coming to her senses, Clarke grunted, “Get off me!” andshoved the stranger backward.

“Hey!I said I was sorry!” he yelped, scrambling off her and holding his hands up insupplication. “You alright?”

Clarkedusted off her clothes and put her backpack on. “Yeah, just peachy.”

“Here,”he said, shaking his head in amusement, “let me help you.”

Hesitantlyaccepting his offer, she tried not to notice how warm his skin was as he leaneddown and pulled her to her feet. Stop it, Clarke, you don’t even know him.He could be a total creep.

“OfficerMiller?” The tagger and the thief froze as a dispatcher responded to the policeofficer hovering just out of sight. “Back up is on the way. What’s your preciselocation?”

“Thanks,dispatch. I’m on the corner of…”

“Wegotta move,” the man said quietly, still holding her hand.

“What?”she snapped, shaking him off. “What do you mean ‘we?’ ”

“Forsome reason they think we’re together, so it’s probably best that we team upfor now,” he explained. “I can get us out of this, but you’re going to have totrust me.”

Therewere a thousand reasons to refuse, to knock him down and run in the oppositedirection, but something told her that she could put her faith in this man. Somethingfoolish, no doubt. “Alright.”

“Thisway,” he instructed, leading her back the way he’d come. They jogged down thealley between two huge apartment buildings until they reached the next road.Her newfound accomplice peaked out from behind the closest building, makingsure the coast was clear. “Come on, it’s safe.”

“Whichway now?”

“Right.The cop said they were tracking us west, so let’s head north for now.”

Keepingon his tail, Clarke instinctively knew that if she wanted to get out of thisjam, she’d have to stick with the man in black. He carried himself like asolider, tactical and quick on his feet, but he looked pretty young to alreadybe ex-military. If they managed to get away, she’d have to ask him about it.

“I’m Bellamy, by the way,” hecalled over his shoulder.

“Clarke,” she returned.

“Clarke,” he repeated. “I likeit.”

“I don’t care,” she said wryly.“Where are we going?”

“I parked my bike in an alley onfifth,” Bellamy panted, picking up his pace. “It’s close, so if we can just getthere…”

They were on third now, only twoblocks away. Hope bloomed in Clarke’s chest. “Okay! I’m right behind you!”

Bellamy ducked down a side street onthe left, sprinting past the dumpsters and debris littering the way. Matchinghis hurried steps, Clarke ignored the stitch in her side as they neared theirdestination, unwilling to be the reason they got caught. Anything you can do, I can do better… she hummed to herself.

“We’re here!” Bellamy said scantminutes later, sliding to a halt in front of a large wooden palette. “Give me ahand, will you?”

Clarke nodded, moving forward toassist him as she tried to control her harsh breathing. “What do you want me todo?”

“Lift the left side and I’ll getthe right.”

“Got it.” They worked together tomove the heavy palette out of the way, dropping it to the ground a few feetaway. “That’s your ride?” Clarke said dubiously once the shoddy lookingmotorcycle was revealed. The dark purple paint was scraped off in severalplaces and the kickstand looked like it was one good day away from snapping inhalf.

“Yeah,” he said, swelling withpride. “Isn’t she beautiful?”

“She’s something,” Clarke saiddryly.

Kicking his leg over the frontseat, Bellamy rolled his eyes at her lack of enthusiasm. “Do you trust me?” heasked, reaching behind him to produce his gloves and headgear.

“What?”

Bellamy held out a sleek blackhelmet. “Do you trust me?”

“Not on your life, street rat.”

“Well that’s pretty rude of you tosay,” he grinned, tossing the helmet at her before pulling his gloves on. “Kindof childish, in fact.”

Clarke caught the safety gear withease. “Says the man quoting Aladdin.”

“Yeah, yeah. Stop complaining andget on, Princess,” Bellamy commanded, whipping his keys out of his back pocket.“We gotta go.”

“But—”

“Now, Clarke.”

“Fine!” she said indigently, dashingforward to mount the bike. “But only because it’s the expedient thing to do. Don’tthink you can get away with ordering me around under normal circumstances.” Settlingin behind him, Clarke tugged on the helmet and braced her feet on the back pegs.“Happy now?”

“Almost,” Bellamy smirked. “Wrapyour arms around my waist.”

“What?”

“You heard me,” he said a littlegruffly.

Was he embarrassed? Because shesure as hell was. “That’s okay, I’ll just hold onto the seat.”

“It’s safer if you hold onto me.” He looked over his shoulder at her.“Please, I don’t want anything to happen to you.”

Clarke bit her lip, trying not tonotice how attractive he looked with his dark hair falling over one soulfuleye. “Okay, whatever.”

“Thanks, Princess,” he chuckled,twisting the key and revving the engine.

Just then, sirens blazed behindthem.

“Oh, shit! Go! Go!” Clarke cried,wrapping her arms around his waist and holding on for dear life.

Bellamy zipped out of the alley,racing onto the main street and through several red traffic lights. “Holdtight!” he warned, taking a hard left immediately followed by another jerk tothe right.

“If I fall of this motorcycle anddie, I will kill you so dead!” she shouted over the wailing wind.

“Deal! Now shut the hell up andlet me focus on not killing us!”

Clarke pressed her cheek againstthe middle of his muscular back, tightening her grasp until she felt moresecure. Putting all of her trust in a relative stranger was a hard pill toswallow, but for some reason, it was easy with Bellamy. Maybe it was becausethey shared the same occupation and dry sense of humor, but Clarke had neverfelt so in tune with another person before. Whatever the reason, she wassuddenly, inexplicably dreading the end of this little escape attempt. What is wrong with me?!

Swerving to avoid a semi that waschanging lanes, Bellamy swore at the near miss. “Shit, sorry! Looks like trafficis backed up ahead!”

“It’s okay! Just take the nextleft!” Clarke instructed, recognizing a shortcut she’d used a few times toavoid pileups.

Following her directive without hesitation,Bellamy shifted his weight to guide the bike onto the side street and out ofsight of the main road. Clarke let out a breath as the police sirens abruptlydulled to a low hum, indicating that the law had veered off in a differentdirection or were stuck in the mess they’d just avoided.

Bellamy and Clarke rode incompanionable silence for another ten minutes or so before he decelerated to acrawl in front of a shady looking walkup. Pressing a button on the smallcontroller attached to his keychain, Bellamy turned the bike around and linedit up with a set of faded tire prints on the pavement. Amazingly, a basementelevator gradually rose before them, large enough for two people and amotorcycle to squeeze into.

“What the hell?” Clarke gasped.

“Impressed?” he said good-naturedly.

“Getting there.”

Walking the bike forward, Bellamyhit the button again once they were securely inside. It was a littleclaustrophobic, but a few minutes later they were standing in a dimly litbasement.

“Please tell me this isn’t yourmurder room,” she said drolly.

“Not hardly,” he laughed, pluckingthe helmet off her head.

Stepping off the bike, Clarkeshook out her long blonde hair, looking around with interest. “Lights?”

“One sec.” Bellamy lowered thekickstand and stowed his equipment before hitting a switch on the wall.

“Whoa!” she exclaimed when theoverhead lights flickered on, surprised by his high-tech setup. There werecomputers and electronic equipment strewn across several large desks, forming ahalf circle in the center of the room.

“Welcome to the Batcave,” he joked.

“Is all this yours?” she said inawe.

“If only,” he said wistfully. “Thisis actually my friend Monty’s place.”

Clarke raised one pale brow. “Andhe won’t mind that we dropped in unannounced?”

“Nah, he’s family,” Bellamydismissed, striding to the other side of the room and flopping down on abeaten-up old couch.

“Do you do this sort of thingoften then?” she inquired, joining him on the sofa.

“This sort of thing?”

“Rescuing strange women and bringingthem home with you?” she teased.

“Definitely not. I actually have abit of a reputation for avoiding unnecessary entanglements,” he shrugged. “Notthat I don’t care about people, it’s just…hard for me to connect sometimes.”

“I know what you mean,” Clarkesighed, recalling her last few disastrous relationships. “Sometimes I wonderwhy I even try.”

“No kidding,” Bellamy agreed. Histone was odd, stirring her memory of how they had ended up here in the firstplace.

“Bellamy, who were you stealingfood for?”

“Oh, uh, my little sister,” he stammered.“It was stupid, really. I got caught like a rank amateur, but she’s been havinga really hard time lately, and I just wanted to make her happy.” Bellamyfrowned. “Am I making any sense?”

“Yeah.” She knew all aboutirrational behavior. “That car I tagged earlier? It was my ex’s. We’ve beendone for a while, but I guess I needed to get all of my anger out to truly moveon.”

“And…have you?” He looked like hewas holding his breath.

Clarke debated on making him waitfor an answer, but his puppy dog eyes were too irresistible. “Definitely.”

“Good. That’s good.”

“In fact, Bellamy, I think we—”

“Make a pretty good team?” he finisheduncertainly.

Stunned that he’d literally takenthe words right out of her mouth, Clarke stared at him for a space of seconds.“Um. Well, yes.”

Appearing galvanized by heranswer, he continued, “Any chance you’d like to stick around for a while then, Princess?No pressure, but I’d like to get to know you.”

Searching his sincere expression, Clarkefelt compelled to take a chance. “Yeah, I think I would.”

Bellamy slowly covered her handwhere it rested between them, as if testing her reaction. “How about we cleanup and grab some dinner then?”

“Sure,” she smiled, threading herfingers through his. “But you’re stealing.”

-FIN-

——————

A/N: Get it? “But you’re stealing” instead of “But you’re buying!” Ilike to think I’m funny sometimes lol My other Bellarke fic is called “NewBlood” and it’s a grounder AU where Clarke and Octavia battle for the title ofCommander while Bellamy looks on helplessly from the sidelines. Check it out!

#bellarke #bellamy blake #clarke griffin #bellarke fanfic #bellarke fic #the 100 #prompts #thanks babe #asks answered #my fanfiction #sushigirlali #ride or die

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kriscynical · 6 years ago

Text

Retropalooza 2018

So as already stated, Bree and I went to Retropalooza this weekend and had an absolute blast as always. This was our third year to go, and we love this con to bits. It’s practically in my backyard, only 20 minutes away from my house. It’s big enough to have good guests and a sizable dealer’s room, but still small enough to be fun. I dread the day when that happy medium finally gets tipped because of growth. You always want a con to be successful but... you know.

As a side note, if the con you are running is for retro gaming and started out as a swap meet, if you’re suddenly going to ban screwdrivers at the door, perhaps you should mention that on your website beforehand? Seeing as how screwdrivers are... you know... the only way to definitely check the authenticity of retro game carts? That way your attendees won’t have to sprint back out to their cars in 10000% humidity in end-of-September-in-Texas heat. Just a suggestion, guys.

But anyway.

I don’t talk about it much on this blog, but I follow a lot of gaming YouTubers. I’m not as religious about it as some people are, but I enjoy listening to gaming content while I’m working, especially letsplays. Retropalooza always has several YouTubers I follow as guests, which adds to the fun factor. This year’s guests that Bree and I were into were Jirard and Alex of Super Beard Bros and The Completionist, Norman Caruso of The Gaming Historian, James Rolfe of The Angry Video Game Nerd, and Arlo. Every single one of them are super nice, although AVGN being there this year caused a bit of bullshit to happen which I’ll detail in a little bit.

I have a little third party NES/SNES console, the RetroDuo, which I’ve had my favorite YouTubers sign for the last three years, all at this con. It’s usually displayed on one of the bookshelves in my studio. This year’s additions were Arlo and James Rolfe. It’s pretty full now:

This is long because of several photos from meet and greets as well as my Zelda haul from the dealer’s room, so...

Arlo! I just discovered his channel over the spring and this was conveniently the first year for him to be at Retropalooza. His content is really fun, and I always look forward to his reactions and discussions to Nintendo Directs and E3. His reaction to the E3 Metroid Prime 4 teaser reveal in particular was priceless.

I’ve met Norman in years past, so we just went to his panel this year. His panels are usually a live version of a Gaming Historian episode along with some Q&A and a little game show based on information from his videos. His live episode was on Punch-Out. He usually does Jeopardy! as the game format, but this time he changed it up to Who Wants to be a Millionaire?... and the lady he picked out of the audience to participate didn’t know the answer to a single damn question. I don’t know why she even raised her hand, because it wasn’t like he even asked anything difficult in the first few questions! If you watched his videos even once you’d know the answers. Bree and I were frustrated because we probably could have gotten to the million dollar question. >:\

Later in the day was AVGN’s panel, and that’s where the bullshit comes in. From the time we first got to the con on Saturday Bree and I noticed that it was way more crowded than usual, enough to get her anxiety going. AVGN doesn’t make a whole lot of convention appearances, so obviously the uptick in attendance was due to him. The people who run this con know gaming, particularly on YouTube since all of their guests are YouTubers. They should have known AVGN was going to attract hoards of people. Did they prepare for that? Of course not.

Bree and I go to the panel room he’s scheduled to be in 15 minutes before the previous panel ends, and we get our seats. Jirard’s Completionist panel is scheduled right after AVGN in the same room, so we plan to camp out for a little while.

Right as the previous panel is ending con staff announces that AVGN has been moved to main events, and everybody exits in one mass trying to get over to main events as quickly as possible. We ended up stuck in a massive line that snaked down the hallway and back, and before we know it it’s 1:15... 15 minutes past when the panel was supposed to start. So now we know that if we get IN to this panel, we’re going to have to miss a good chunk of it because for both of us it’s more important to see Jirard’s panel than AVGN. We’re also afraid that AVGN’s panel running over is just going to decimate Jirard’s numbers.

Con staff comes back and says there won’t be enough chairs for everyone but there’s basically unlimited standing room, which isn’t great for me or my back. They then ask if anybody has a condition that won’t allow them to stand for an entire panel, and I raise my hand. I tell them I had back surgery a few months ago and they say okay, we’ll get you a chair. Which they did. Once they started letting people in they pulled Bree and I out of line and escorted us to two chairs behind the back row, one for me and one for her since she was with me.

She proceeds to post this to her Snapchat:

This was what the room looked like when the panel started, at 1:25:

We still can’t believe the con didn’t anticipate this. This was the dealer’s room. Meaning the acoustics sucked ass. We couldn’t understand a single thing that was being asked or answered, nor could most of the people in the back of the room. As a result, several people left within the first 10 minutes (and the overall crowds at the con dropped like a ROCK after that panel was over, thank god!). At about 1:45 we gave up and left, too, to go grab seats for Jirard’s Completionist panel, which worked out well because we got front row. Thankfully the room was mostly full by the time the panel started, too.

The Completionist panel was the best of the weekend that we attended, imo. Bree and I were smiling and laughing through the whole thing because it was just that much fun. He had nothing planned because he’d been in Japan until a couple days before that, so it was just a laid back Q&A. He called on both of us to ask questions, and my question (“Given what you just said about Sleepy Jirard, would you say it’s a cure for Jirard Syndrome?”) got quite a bit of an audience reaction as well as a reaction from him, followed by “That was a good question.” with a laugh after he answered. Bree and I hope we can find video of this panel on YouTube soon.

After his panel we went back to the dealer’s room and found him and Alex at their guest table, they recognized us from years past (“Oh hey, guys!”), we chatted for a bit, took pictures, and I gave both of them some little goodies I’d made based on the Kaizo episodes of Super Beard Bros:

These are buttons Bree wanted of the designs I made. I gave both Alex and Jirard keychains of “Ladies and Gentlemen: The Bullet”, then gave Alex “The Goochy” and Jirard “This is not how I end”. They both liked them a LOT and Alex said he was going to put the bullet on his keys, which made me ridiculously happy. These will be available at next year’s A-Kon.

Before we left for the day on Saturday we saw that the line for AVGN wasn’t too bad, so we decided to give it a shot for autographs and pictures. Thankfully it only took about ten minutes to get through the line, and even though the con had fucked up his panel royally, James was super nice when we got to meet him.

I didn’t realize he had made that face until I saw the picture afterwords. If I had known, I would have made a face, too, dammit! >:\

On Sunday we brought along my mom so she could 1) see what a retro gaming con was like since she’d only been to anime cons, and 2) see the Beard Bros panel/meet them because I had gotten her into their channel over the summer via the Kaizo videos. I introduced her to them separately since they were each talking to different people, and when I said “I recently got her into Super Beard Bros” both of them independently said “I’m sorry” as a response without having heard the other do so. lol

I’m posting this picture again because I love it. Y’all can deal with it. You’ve read this far.

I had printed out a shot of the Beard Bros title card so my mom could get it signed, and she did. She said she thoroughly enjoyed herself at the con, and I’m hoping she can come out on Sunday next year, too. She bought an NES cart of Classic Concentration, a game that she and I played together on my NES all the time when I was a kid. I wish they’d bring it back on TV because it was a good game show, dammit.

My Zelda Haul:

The three game box covers are mounted on 1/2″ foam core and I plan to hang them over the TV in my studio since that’s where all of my retro gaming stuff is set up. The BotW box art is layered 3D cutout in a shadow box frame. The Hylian Shield is a new pillow to add to my gaming chair. Not pictured: a Sheik Amiibo that the seller gave me a good price on after some haggling, and a replacement gold Wii remote to replace the one the batteries destroyed a couple months ago. I got that for a really good price, too, from a different seller. He was selling it as a bundle with Skyward Sword, and I of course didn’t need the game.

“Will you sell this by itself?”

“I was selling it as a bundle, but sure.”

“How much?”

“What will you offer me?”

“Uh... I dunno? I don’t know what it’s going for online right now.”

Bree said, “I’ll check.” and pulled out her phone. I had only seen it in one game shop here in Arlington for $80 and hadn’t tried looking online yet. She turned her phone to the guy and said “On eBay it’s going for anywhere from $45 to $82.”

So then the guy says to me again, “Okay. So what will you offer me?”

“$50?”

“Cash?”

“Yep.”

“Done.”

Yaaaaaaas.

THIS THING is the crown jewel of my haul and I love it to pieces. Guh. I picked it up on Saturday.

Just LOOK AT IT. I bought it from the same seller as the Sheik Amiibo, and I referred to it as “my baby” for the rest of the day and carried it in front of me in its box quite proudly. I had several people tell me it was badass and that was satisfying. Every time I had to get into my backpack for something I told Bree, “Hold my baby.” before handing it over.

I think I got him for a great price, too. After reaching a deal on Sheik I asked the guy how much the figure was, and he said $100 but asked what I would offer for it. He’d had it up on eBay but pulled it after a week because it wasn’t selling. I’ve only seen it for $110-120+ online, but I went ahead and tried to haggle some more because why the hell not. I asked if he’d do $80, then he asked if I’d do $90 because he gave me a good deal on Sheik (he really did... $10 off of his asking price which was almost a third total!), and I agreed. He said that made him happy because he’d rather the figure go to me “because it looks like you’ll take care of the box” to which I told him yes, of course, I keep all of my boxes in a safe place, and his buddy said “That’s the way to do it!!”.

And that’s that. I spent the most money this year of any year before now, but I don’t regret a cent of it. Especially on my baby. Bree and I already can’t wait for next year!

#retropalooza #cons #conventions #youtubers #youtube #retropalooza 2018 #zelda #loz #merchandise #video games #retro gaming #personal shit #family #photos #shut up kris

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safty · 6 years ago

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To the Rescue (Part II) Chapter 30: Pillowtalk

New chapter is here! And with an email from Ao3, I’ve been notified that it was indeed a commerce violation that I was flagged for! Thankfully, with some compliance issues resolved, TTR should be back in good standing after a review by the abuse case people.

In the meantime, enjoy this chapter. Hopefully by next week or the week after, thing swill be back on, regular style.

Even if Seth had the time to discuss things frankly with his boyfriends, he wasn't really sure what he was going to say. Whether it was the obvious, looming cloud surrounding his inheritance or the more immediate problems of Roman's drinking, he was at a loss for words. Without the ability to triage the most important issue, Seth just felt listless and disconnected.

That night, Roman eventually came to bed after Dean, but the three were all siloed from one another, in their own space. Seth tried to half-heartedly cuddle with each of them, if only to make himself feel better. But Roman's snoring was terrible and Dean was even more fidgety than usual, springing up during the night to use the bathroom on more than one occasion.

Breakfast was quiet, and Roman seemed to realize he was being circled with a wide berth. Seth watched with a sort of dissociated fascination as Dean focused intently on nibbling his egg sandwich to completion before checking on the chickens. It didn't seem malicious or passive aggressive, but Roman cleared his throat loudly, looking around the kitchen as Seth mutely rinsed out his coffee mug.

"Ugh… sorry I've been kinda… slacking since vacay," Roman admitted, rubbing his eyes and leaning back in his seat. "I'm gunna clean the house up this weekend. Got the carpet cleaner's comin' anyway."

Seth just hummed, blinking hard. Past using the bathroom several times before noon, he wasn't sure if his coffee was doing anything for him anymore.

"Dean okay you think?" Roman asked, looking out the window to where their boyfriend was aimlessly wandering around between the garden patches. "Was sort of quiet… last night."

"Ask him if you want, I dunno," Seth sighed, shaking his head. Everything else seemed so much larger than the petty tedium between his boyfriends. He yawned hard and set his mug in the sink before going to the bathroom to shave, too sleepy and preoccupied to be polite. This was Roman's problem after all, not his. It wasn't like they could help him with his own problems right now.

Needless to say, Seth's detached mood threw their morning routine for a loop when he went to load his work bag into the Cadillac instead. For Seth, it made obvious sense. Roman only had to work a few hours in the morning and their carpooling was becoming inefficient. With all the last minute duties of the fundraiser, Seth was also sort of hoping that he might have to work later and have some time away from the house to occupy himself. Dean watched, obviously torn as Roman just went to the Jeep, likely a little put off by Seth's own grumpy attitude.

"I'll still pick you up if you want," Seth heard Roman call. He didn't bother looking up as he searched for a good song on his phone to play for his morning commute. Another plus to riding without Roman was that Seth wouldn't be subjected to R&B music he didn't want to hear. A little surprisingly, Dean took to the Jeep and Seth blinked, watching his boyfriends load into the larger car without a perfunctory goodbye.

"Whatever," he mumbled under his breath. Gripping the wheel maybe a little tighter than usual as he turned down the road, toward the highway. Hadn't Dean just confessed to him yesterday about being uncomfortable with Roman's behavior? Seth supposed he could be using the short ride to talk, but it seemed unlikely.

With everything going on, work was a godsend and Seth was ready to isolate himself all day if it meant he got a mental break from the world. With Roman and Dean just a few seconds behind him, he powered through the lobby, past Sami and the school group that was coming in, to Hunter and Stephanie's office that was darkly lit and unoccupied. He paused for a moment, squinting through the glass before his hand went to the door handle, about it open it. Usually he checked in with his boss before he put his things down in the maintenance room, it was just a habit at this point.

"Hay, you can' go in there."

Seth turned his head and came face to face with a rather large bearded man donning a lifeguard tube. He was quite a few inches taller than Seth, with chest hair that was puffing out from under his guard shirt, Seth blinked, amused.

"Uh, I work here?" He almost laughed, feeling the frustrations with Roman and Dean that had been just beneath the surface flare up again. "Employee of the month? I'm Seth Rollins."

The man raised an eyebrow, eyes flicking back to the water he was attending. If he hadn't been so flagrantly rude, Seth might have thought he was attractive. He was similarly bearded with long dark hair, and something about his voice was vaguely foreign, like british, or something.

"Well… you don' have a nametag or nuttin'," the man mumbled, re-adjusting the strap of his tube across his chest. "Thought you were just some patron."

"Don't worry about it man," Seth said, more dismissively than anything as he put his hand back on the door handle. If he was in a better mood, Seth might have asked for his name or at least put on a guise of benevolence. But that morning, he was more than happy to appear haughty and self-important as he came inside the office and flicked on the light.

Sure enough, on Hunter's desk, a note had been left detailing a set of tasks that still needed to be completed before the fundraiser the next day. At this point, Seth was sort of used to untangling his boss's shorthand scrawl, and he smiled as he saw a large circle of items that Hunter had simply scrawled SETH next to, in the margin.

Call Paige (See cell # on contact sheet) Working front desk w/ Sami? Fundraiser start time

Seth had remembered Hunter mentioning something about Paige, and he blinked, trying to think if it was best to just try texting her. Aside from always feeling a little stupid on the phone, he had next to no relationship with the girl. All he'd known was the swarm of gossip around her and he didn't really want to stick his nose in it.

Surf camp sponsorship: attn: Shinsuke

At this, Seth noticed an arrow pointing from the clipboard to Stephanie's desk, where a catalog of surfboard gear was resting on her desk. Sure enough, the catalog had a sticky note that said NAKAMURA in large script. Seth didn't really know what it was about, but he supposed he would probably have to go find the guy and give him the catalog.

Find Face Paint (restock??)

More Fundraiser stuff, and Seth sighed hard, trying to imagine where the facepaints were. Miz's office was a good guess, though there was a large rubbermaid container full of a miscellaneous selection of crap that White Water kept around for birthday party groups. It was likely that he'd have to do some digging.

Chairs from basement

This was pretty self explanatory. There were some chairs that Hunter had discussed needing to bring outside for use by the staff. If the note was referring to the metal folding chairs, he'd have to find the service cart to load them onto. For this, he might need someone's help, just because of his knee. However awkward it might be to go find Dean and Roman for their help at that point, he might have to.

Lanyards (See Sami)

Seth had no idea what lanyards the list was referring to. He might try to tackle that first, just so he could get an idea of what he was supposed to be doing.

Confirm water X class with Roman

"OO' was that guy?"

Seth blinked, hearing voices behind him, in the pool area. The tall guard that had accosted him on his was into the office was talking to someone. Though his voice was muffled, Seth could hear him through the glass easily. He didn't want to turn around and reveal himself, as the lights were on, and so Seth just played dumb, listening intently with his back turned.

"Who?"

"Dark haired guy," the man said. Seth sniffed, it sounded like he was talking to Dolph. To appear busy, he picked up a pen from Hunter's desk and twirled it between his fingers.

"Oh, Seth," Dolph said, lightheartedly. The back of Seth's neck prickled. Ever since he'd heard Dolph talk shit about him on accident, they'd been a little cold. "Hunter's sassy gay friend."

His chest went cold for a moment as the man he didn't know gave a snorting laugh and said something unintelligible. Dolph's words were entirely inappropriate- bordering on some sort of harassment, but Seth kept his cool, feeling his hands began to sweat. Dolph continued on, saying something along the lines of "Used to guard" and "mostly harmless" and the two men walked down the pool deck, moving onto a different conversation. Seth stayed rooted to the spot, bubbling with anger and the desire to call Dolph into the office for a man to man chat. Was Dolph really so stupid as to think that he hadn't heard him?

There didn't seem to be an opportune time to make his exit, but Seth gave himself a few moments before blindly leaving the office. Five steps out, and he was forced to double back for the clipboard, but even he didn't know where he was going. Dolph and the taller guy were on the other side of the pool and didn't even seem to see him, talking to a patron.

"Hey!" Sami piped up as Seth came behind the desk, pulling out the weekly work schedule and tossing the clipboard onto the counter with a flippantly careless thwap. "I got those little keychain things."

"What?" Seth said, unhearing as his gaze went down the list of guards working the pools that day. The usual 9:00-1:00 shift slot showed Dean in P-Pool and Baron opening the adaptive area. The name DREW MCINTYRE was printed large under the lap pool tier and Seth just blinked, wondering what he'd been hoping for.

"Hunter told me you were going to assemble these once we got them in," Sami said, kicking a large cardboard box in his direction which rattled with the noise of plastic packaging. "I can help too. Most of them are in these clear sleeves right now-" Sami held up couple of little inserts, but paused as he seemed to sense Seth's distress. "What's up?"

"It's nothing," Seth lied, shaking his head. A few patrons came in and Sami paused, quickly scanning their membership cards. "Uh… I'll uh… I'll be back in a bit here."

"No prob," Sami said, handing an older man a towel. "I'll take them out of the sleeve things. Should make it easier."

"Thanks man," Seth sighed, walking back through the turnstile without any real plan of action. Why had Dolph felt compelled to say something so offensive? Did he know it was offensive? Honestly, the more Seth thought about it, the more he felt it probably wasn't intentionally malicious. Straight people said all sorts of cringeworthy things about gay people all the time, and Seth had spent most of his teenage years trying to dodge women that seemed over-eager to befriend him when they found out he was gay.

Perhaps it was the use of the word sassy that had particularly grated him. Seth doubled back to the lap pool to grab the catalog off Stephanie's desk with a face set in concentration. As soon as he'd come out as gay in a frenzied emotional fit to his mother, sassy was a word he had begun to loathe. Seemingly overnight, almost everything he did that was remotely antisocial or introverted, his mother referred to as sassy for comedic effect. Everything he did was deemed effeminate, and it aggravated him to no end. To Seth, it seemed obvious that the words were derogatory, but he instantly began to question his own behaviors and mannerisms.

It doesn't matter what they think Seth thought as he left the pool for the second time, purposefully ignoring Drew Mcintyre and Dolph. Hadn't Dolph got him coffee that one time he had to open the pool? Weren't they friends?

There was still some cleaning to do aside from all of Hunter's errands, and Seth decided to reline the trash cans first and work his way around the building to cover his ground. Shinsuke wasn't on the schedule until three, usually when Seth was leaving the building. He could catch Roman literally whenever he wanted to, and so he quickly texted Paige about the fundraiser before Seth worked top down, heading to the adaptive pool.

"Hiya Seth," Finn grinned sweetly, passing him at the utility closet where he was grabbing a new box of trash bags. Seth nodded, trying to smile and pull himself out of his head. "Wha' time are ya workin' the fundraiser tomorrow?"

"Morning shift," Seth said, setting the box on his cart and looking for gloves. "I think they're having me man the gate or something."

"Could barely fine' parking in the lot, what with all da folks out der," Finn mumbled, looking a little tentative about something. Seth looked up as Finn licked his lips, looking a little sheepish. "I was uh, wonderin' if I could ask ya a favor…"

"Yeah?" Seth asked, looking up as Finn blushed, holding up a plastic bag which was stuffed full with a bag pack.

"Urh… I didn' wan' to haff ta ask, it's jus…. Kev made fun of me pretty bad last time and tol' me he wouldn' wash it twice… I spilled coffee on et…" Finn explained. Seth accepted the bag, peering in. "Do you tink you coul' wash it while I'm on da lifeguard stand?"

"Yeah man, no problem," Seth laughed, wondering why Finn was so uptight. "You want me to put it in the breakroom when it's done?"

"If you coul'," Finn beamed. "Thanks Seff!"

With just another item on his list, Seth took the elevator to the top floor and began working his way around AJ and Miz's offices, pointedly hurrying to get away from the two insufferable men. For once, AJ wasn't subjecting the room to obnoxious country-pop music and Miz wasn't on his headset device, talking boisterously. The two men seemed swamped by the fundraiser as well and several stand up displays were resting against the wall of the office, ready to be used the next day.

Baron was on the stand, watching a single kid and what was likely a professional assistant, working with a special needs child. The deck's single trash was barely ever full, and after checking it, Seth made a beeline for the boys locker rooms.

"You want me to check the ladies?" Sasha asked as she came in, watching Seth consolidate several bags as he stood outside the youth locker rooms, arms full.

"Uh, if you got a sec," Seth mumbled. Sasha and Bayley occasionally helped with these sorts of things, but Stephanie wasn't above assisting either, if she was walking down the hall. There were a stange view moments as Seth stood, holding an empty garbage liner as Sasha ducked into the locker room, feeling unaccountable for his mood. As his mind seemed to be paddle-balling back and forth a lot these days, he wondered idly how long he'd have to clean bathrooms before he received his inheritance. Seth knew a six-figure check didn't mean he was better than anyone, but he was getting awfully tired of having dirt in between his fingernails.

Dolph passed through the youth locker room, shaking him from his thoughts and making Seth slightly angry again. Sasha came by to grab another liner and wiggled her eyebrows.

"You okay?" she asked, fluffing up the garbage bag. "You look moody."

"It's my face," Seth grumbled, watching his bleached-blonde coworker traipse down the hall as though nothing was wrong.

"You doing okay though?" Sasha asked, looking at him seriously. Seth knew she was asking because of his grandfather and he just shrugged, wiping the side of his nose with the back of his hand.

"Weird day, I dunno," he admitted. "Don't worry."

Paige texted him back during his break, and Seth went out of his way to avoid Dean. He was still in a weird mood and wanted his space, and although it was hot outside, Seth went on a short walk around the steamy parking lot. There was still a lot of work to be done in the cordoned-off area where rented tents were being erected in preparation for the big day.

Hired workers were sweating in the hot sun and a few were smoking on the outskirts of the parking lot, taking a break. In his mind, Seth could imagine the layout that he had seen on Hunter's computer screen several times. The park would be closed for the day and several food trucks would be parked by the entrance, including the one belonging to the Joe character he'd talked to on the phone. The tents were for a few different outreach programs and White Water's internal programming, like swim lessons and water exercise. Looking out to the farthest corner by the line of trees, Seth was sure the bounce house and kids games were all going to be set up the next morning.

His forehead sweat as he walked, but his knee was feeling good enough to survey the area in a lap, awkwardly waving to the workers and Kevin, who was coming out of the park. As he came around the backside of the tents, Seth could see Hunter at the front, talking on his cellphone.

"Yeah, no, I know, but it's only supposed to be for the morning, so worst case scenario, we'll just be anticipating a bigger crowd in the afternoon." Hunter was saying on the phone. Seth stepped forward, mingling around but trying to appear casual by bringing out his own phone. It wasn't strictly necessary for him to keep checking in with Stephanie and Hunter, but he was feeling sort of fragile and directionless.

"Yeah… I'll uh, I'll catch you tomorrow Shawn, just make sure you've really got that dinner reservation…" Hunter shot Seth a sort of playfully exasperated face as his friend clearly wanted to prolong the conversation. "Yeah brother, you too…"

Seth half smiled as his boss sighed and hung up the phone. They were both sweating in the sun and he was grateful as Hunter gestured for them to walk inside.

"Paige got back to me, she said she can be here tomorrow around eleven." Seth said first, mentally trying to work through the list he'd been given. Still gotta get those chairs and the lanyards… You just want them in your office when they're done? The lanyards?"

"Yeah, that sounds best," Hunter nodded, pocketing his phone and making to get the door for Seth before they could fight over it. "I'll help you with the chairs now if you're ready."

"Sure sure,' Seth said, following Hunter down the stairs at a shuffle. Predictably, they were stopped several times and Seth had to idle behind his boss as all manner of questions were lobbed his way.

"I need to talk to 'ou before the end of de day," Maryse said seriously, looking awkwardly between her boss and Seth, sure in the fact that she wanted privacy.

"When do you leave? Four?" Hunter asked calmly, looking at his watch. "Can you meet me in my office then?"

They were accosted again by a very sun-tinged Sheamus, who was angry with Rusev for being made to work in the direct sunlight.

"I think Aiden had the same complaint," Hunter laughed, Seth watched his boss pat the large ginger haired man on the chest. "We still need to get the rest of those umbrella's put up there for you guys. I'll make sure it gets done after the fundraiser."

"It's like you get stopped every five feet," Seth laughed lightly as they continued on. Hunter just shrugged, turning down his walkie talkie as Tyler requested more towels upstairs.

"That's sort of the idea behind the position we're creating," Hunter explained, flicking on the light in the basement and surveying the large racks of folding chairs, sitting dusty in the corner of the basement storage area. "Stephanie's taking on a lot more outreach work lately and it would be nice to have a more communicative lead staff."

"Well, you know I'm in," Seth said firmly, walking over to where Hunter was pointing at the moving dolly. "I know that I've had… like all that stuff happen. But I'm getting back in the groove of things."

"Good. Life has bad timing sometimes." Hunter said cooly, as though he wasn't talking about something as complicated as a deceased family member. "Knee still healing then?"

"Yeah, uh, I still need to go to the doctor again," Seth mumbled, accepting chairs from Hunter to stow on the dolly. "Waiting… till after the fundraiser. It's been feeling fine and I've been doing the exercises I'm supposed to, so I feel like I can push it a little…"

He felt a little stupid talking about his life to his boss, but Hunter's attention seemed to be the perfect mix of detached and focused to allow Seth to speak. There wasn't much that he really wanted to say, but it felt better than mutely pacing the halls and finishing chores as he usually did. As the two pulled the chairs up the elevator, through the lobby and back outside, Seth wondered if there was really a vocal minority at work that could possibly dislike Hunter and thus similarly dislike him. Dolph had said Hunter's sassy gay friend as though he was also dismissing his boss a little. For a moment, Seth mulled over the possibility of telling his boss what he'd heard, but he sighed, swallowing it down.

"We're still waiting on two tents and the display board," one of the workers explained to Hunter, fixing a work cap over his sweaty hair. "Truck's comin,"

"Will it be here by four?" Hunter asked, slightly annoyed. Seth watched him check his watch and fanned his shirt quickly. Even if he did tell Hunter anything, what the hell could he do about it? The fundraiser was the priority right now.

With the folding chairs crossed off the list, Seth put Finn's backpack in the wash and set Shinsuke's catalog aside at the front desk for when he eventually came in. It was now almost two o'clock, and Seth worked with Sami to begin fixing the keychains to the lanyard strands. Hunter and Stephanie had ordered five hundred little White Water metallic logo keychains that were to be given away with donations to their water safety program.

"There's gunna be an ad in the paper, tons of folks show up," Sami explained, tossing Seth a lanyard clip. "Weather doesn't look great, but that won't stop a lot of people."

"I'll be glad when it's over," Seth yawned, clipping a keychain to a lanyard and tossing it into a box. He knew if he wanted to do his job right, he'd go through and tie the lanyards together in strings of twenty or something, but he was losing his enthusiasm as his fingers grew dry. Sami kept having to pause to check people in and the evening rush was coming on fast with swim lessons. It took Dean clicking his tongue from the turnstile for Seth to notice him. His heart leapt a little and he realized he hadn't seen his boyfriends all day.

"You staying for awhile?" Dean asked, holding his work bag, clearly ready to leave. Seth nodded from his spot on the floor, pointing to the box of lanyards.

"Yeah, that's the plan," he said, not looking at Dean. "Uce can pick you up right?"

"I can stay'n help too," Dean shrugged. "What do you gotta do?"

"It's no big deal," Seth said quickly, not really sure why he was readily refusing help, other than he felt weird around his boyfriends at the moment. If he just stayed at work, he didn't have to go home and have an awkward conversation. Seth could barely remember all the specifics either. Roman's drinking… a sort of filthy house… it hardly seemed important compared to his own problems.

Dean looked to Sami and then to Seth, lost. Seth felt a pang of guilt, but knew he needed some space. From his sprawled out station on the floor behind the counter, Dean couldn't ask him weird questions or physically say goodbye. But Seth knew he couldn't really place his fear in reality as his boyfriend rarely copped a poor attitude in these sorts of situations.

"Mmmmmkay," Dean said simply turning on his heel and heading back toward the turnstile. "You good on dinner then?"

"Yeah, don't worry," Seth said, piping up as Dean's scruffy head began to disappear away on the other side of the counter. "We'll uh… We can maybe hang out after the fundraiser or something tomorrow?"

"Yeah?" Dean said, coming back to the counter and leaning over it. A family skirted around him, clearly slightly annoyed he was in the way. "Promise?"

"Yes, I promise," Seth furrowed his brow a little. Aggravated at any hint of being called a flake. He knew Dean was just teasing him, but he wasn't in a good mood to hear it. His boyfriend raked his knuckles on the counter, thumping the surface before walking off, probably to sit on the chairs by the door. Sure enough, Sami didn't say anything about the interaction for several minutes, likely after Dean had actually left the building.

"Dean seems a lot more cool since you guys have been together," he said simply, setting down the card scanner to grab another lanyard. "I feel like he didn't talk to anyone ever. I mean… he's still pretty goofy, but it's good that he's got you guys."

"Mmmm," Seth hummed, uncrossing his legs. "Maybe I guess… Not like I was here long without dating either of them."

"I just thought Roman was his only friend." Sami explained, nodding to an older woman coming through the door. "Never seemed to like socializing much."

"Was Uce- Uh… Roman any different?" Seth asked, curious. Sami shrugged, thinking hard.

"Maybe… he's probably more relaxed now," Sami smiled. "All three of you guys are sort of weird and grumpy."

"Excuse yourself," Seth said, rolling his eyes. Dolph's words were still rolling around in his head and again, he bit back an anxious re-telling of the overheard conversation. "I have friends away from my boyfriends."

"Yeah you do, I'm just joking," Sami said, surveying the box of still un-connected lanyards. "Jeez, how long did you want to be here?"

"I'll finish it," Seth said tilting his chin so he could see the rest of his work. "Don't worry about it, you don't have to stay."

Shinsuke arrived on time for his evening swim lessons and as he came through the lobby, Seth presented him with the catalog of surfing equipment Hunter had left. For a day of completing mostly tiresome and thankless jobs, Seth was at least glad to see Shinsuke's face light up with excitement, paging through the bright pages full of wetsuits and boards.

"Did… Hunter say?" Shinsuke asked with a heavy accent, accessing his english. "What time? Eh... to Order?"

"Uh, I don't know," Seth said, trying to remember exactly what Hunter had written. "I'm sure after the fundraiser… I think that just came in the mail the other day."

"Kids will love it," Shinsuke said, beaming wide. There was something incredibly infectious about his enthusiasm and Seth smiled too.

"Yeah? That's great," he nodded. "Glad I caught you."

With the noise of swim lessons and children's voices cascading down the hall, Seth pulled the lanyard boxes into the break room so he might have some peace and quiet. Snacking on a bag on Sun Chips that had been abandoned on the table, he yawned a few times, checking on his progress and rolling his shoulders. If he was home right now, Dean would probably be checking on the chickens of knitting and Roman would be doing some dishes or lounging on the couch. At least, that's what they did most days. Seth knew he was probably acting really weird and distant to him, but he was at least glad he had the excuse of his grandfather's passing to allow him some thinking time.

Seth still had to call the estate lawyer and sort through the paperwork his mother had sent. It was so confusing it made his head hurt and there still didn't seem to be an obvious answer to his problems. As he sat in the empty break room and pressed keychains onto the lanyards, Seth wondered if a logical conclusion would arise through the court process or if he was supposed to have something in mind already. If everything he knew about lawyers and property bureaucracy was to be believed, he probably had a little while to think about what he wanted to do.

But still, Seth sighed, feeling hopeless again. If Dean and Roman just didn't want to make the leap with him, he'd have to face that reality. For all the issues he'd ever encountered with being dishonest with Marek and watching that relationship fall apart, Seth had never been thoroughly rejected before. The thought terrified him, and for a few moments, he simply sat, mouthing theoretical conversations to himself.

I love you both a lot, he tongued against his teeth. I feel like we could really do this if we wanted. I don't have anyone else I want to share my life with like that.

Seth jumped as the door opened and a very wet, disheveled looking Finn came in, towel around his neck, looking miserable. As soon as they locked eyes on each other, he laughed a little. Seth blinked.

"Little brot'er fell in da pool," Finn explained, "Probably didn' haff ta' do a whole jump, but the mot'er scared me."

"You're just having a great day, aren't you?" Seth snorted, standing up and feeling his knee pop a little from sitting still. "Your bag is in the laundry room. Did you want-"

"Uh, yeah," Finn nodded, dusting off his head a little.

"Everything okay?" Seth asked for good measure, touching the walkie talkie at his hip. "Someone got it?"

"Oh yeah, it was just a quick t'ing," Finn sighed. "Randy's givin' me sum time."

Seth retrieved Finn's newly cleaned bag and doubled his pace to finish up the lanyard assembly before six-thirty. Eager to leave and get a more substantial dinner, he swore as he remembered the children's face paints, still unaccounted for. Dropping his bag and running around the building, Seth used the service elevator to get to the top floor, checking Miz's office cabinets before looking elsewhere. The container in question was supposed to be some blue-lidded rubbermaid with little paint palettes specifically for face painting. If he found them, Seth was supposed to put them with the other kid's area boxes that were stacked in the corner of P-Pool. Looking outside through the window, more displays and tables had been erected before the sun was due to set.

After twenty minutes of searching, and enlisting the help of Bayley and Sasha, Seth was sure that whatever container Hunter had been describing had passed into non-existence. They checked the party room, the basement, the storage rooms on each floors and even behind the front desk, but there wasn't any face paints. Annoyed, but mostly just exhausted of being at work, Seth tapped his foot, trying to think.

"They wouldn't be in the park you don't think?" Bayley tried, surveying all of the lanyards Seth had pieced together over the course of the day. "Maybe they all dried up and someone through them away."

"If I buy more, Hunter can reimburse me," Seth sighed, pulling out his phone. His mouth twitched, realizing he had a text in the group chat he shared with Dean and Roman. Ignoring it, he opened Google, trying to think of a store that might have face paints.

"Most places are probably closed," Sasha said, pulling out her own phone and pulling a face. A group of swim team kids came by and she flattened herself against a wall. Seth felt guilty, his friends were ready to go and had their bags on their shoulders but were idling around on his account. The only art store that was open was south of Disney World and Seth didn't want to go to a grocery store and buy a low-quality product that wouldn't work.

"Okay though, I have to be here at 8:30 tomorrow…" Sasha began, looking at Bayley thoughtfully. "I could run to the store by my place… they'll be open at 8 and I could get stuff for me and Xavier to use."

"Could you?" Seth asked, fully ready to hug Sasha if he meant he could be finished working for the day. "That would be… perfect."

"You owe me a cool hangout night," Sasha said smartly. "I wanna go bowling or something. Maybe a movie."

"Absolutely, whatever you want," Seth said, nodding hard and picking up his box of lanyards again. "Just save your receipt and I'll get you cash back."

"Sweet!" Bayley said, happy to see the issue resolved. The girls waved as Seth shuffled as fast as he could to put the finished lanyards in Hunter's office and finally clock out. "Bye Seth! See you tomorrow!"

"Bye girls!" Seth said loudly on his way out. His whole body felt like it was priming to shut down, relieved of duty, desperate to sink into a few hours of rest before he was back again, bright and early.

The lap pool was fairly busy as he walked in and set the box on the floor of Hunter's office. Standing in the dimly lit room, he pulled out his bright phone to see exactly what he'd been sent. Two hours ago, Roman had asked How late will u be over there? Seth felt a little guilty, like he should have told them upfront in the group chat how long he would be, but he honestly hadn't known.

Heading home now he sent, stomach grumbling. It would be a lot to assume that Roman had kept anything warm for him, but Seth would have been appreciative if that was the case.

Of the three of them, Seth was the only one that had to work really early the next day. Dean had the second shift and Roman was more or less beholden to the same job he always worked, which was just his regular group exercise class. Mentally, Seth reminded himself to tell Roman that he was supposed to confirm the class with Hunter and do some stupid intro about the importance of donating to the fundraiser. Turning the key in his ignition, Seth shook his head hard, trying to just clear his head of work crap now that he was off the clock. He didn't really expect to come home and have a long talk or a stupid fight or anything outrageous, but Seth was starting to realize how disconnected he felt from the present. Driving through the city to get home, it was like he had no short term memory, nothing rooting him to the reality of him sitting in his car, turning the steering wheel and signaling for turns. Everything was in the future, and looking in the mirror, Seth thought his face looked sort of discolored and patchy, like his beard was short but growing in weird directions.

The house was dark and the Jeep was gone as Seth approached, feeling anxious again. Inside, Kevin was barking eagerly, but Seth paused as he imagined what he might see inside. What if Roman was passed out on the couch again? What if Dean was avoiding them both? It was nearly dark outside now and the air was sticky, not really prime biking hours.

But as Seth came inside, he realized he was fully alone. All of the lights were off and although the house wasn't quite the filthy mess of dirty dishes and drink containers, the garbage was a little overflowing and stinky. Kevin had already been fed, and Seth licked his lips, wondering what he was expecting.

We went out, there are noodles in the fridge was written on a note in Roman's neat handwriting. There was a little heart under it, which Seth guessed meant that no one was actually mad at him. Why hadn't they bothered to ask him about it? Did they just assume that he didn't want to go out?

Truthfully, Seth was in no mood to go out and he toed out of his shoes and let his hair out of it's bun for good measure. The house was humming with central air and the new refrigerator shone bright as he opened it, examining the buttered noodles left behind. As he spooned the contents into a bowl, Seth was struck by how empty he felt again, without any task left to do.

Am I depressed? He thought, walking to the sliding door to let Kevin outside. He knew he was being ridiculous if he was going to be lonely without his boyfriend's for a single night, especially after Seth had opted to see Cesaro the previous day. There wasn't anyone to talk to, so Seth undid his lips and again, practiced conversations on the open air.

"I don't want to do any of this." he said, not really knowing exactly what he was talking about. The inheritance seemed obvious, but the buttered noodles whirring in the microwave were also rather unappetizing. "Everyone should know that I can't deal with this."

The microwave beeped and he stared for almost another minute before he took it out to stir it again. Feeling dramatic and wishing he could just snap out of it, Seth strode to the living room and grabbed a pillow. He pressed it to his face and screamed as loud as he could manage with one breath, rubbing his beard on the upholstery and screwing up his face with a yell that nearly tore up his vocal chords. Another breath, another long yell and he felt light headed, standing up straight and hearing Kevin scratching at the door, apparently disturbed.

"You're fine," Seth snorted, striding to the door to let his dog in again and stooping to pet the little Yorkie. "You've got it the best Kev, don't take it for granted."

#ttr #fic #to the rescue

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genyatta-ss · 7 years ago

Text

that look in your eyes is so familiar a gleam

from @kaldurrr:

Hey @knisspel! I was so super stoked that you requested sentai au because I’ve been thinking about it p much everyday since it came out. Particularly this one scene that was always stuck in my mind where Zenyatta (a huge fan) after having met Genji (an officiated “marketing agent” for Kamen Dragon’s PR team, think a la Tiger & Bunny) is somehow forced to address the very large infatuation in the room and introduce his new, Totally Normal boyfriend to his huge collection of merch for a superhero whom he may also have a flirty rapport with for the past ten years.

Genji is, for obvious reasons, delighted by all this.

(Oh and in this they’re both in their 30s but that’s not super important, just that I like imagining Genji with greying hair and thinking of settling down with a cute guy.)

I really hope you like it!

—–

Zenyatta doesn’t actually think about what he and Genji might be walking into when they breach the door to his apartment. It’s actually sort of hard to think at all when a beautiful man has his mouth on yours and is kissing you like his life depends on it. From there they stumbled their way across his living room, ricocheting off of furniture, hands reaching to pet and paw at bruises and to feel skin they’ve both been aching for these past few months.

Zenyatta isn’t thinking when they finally crash through his bedroom door in a flurry of giggles, not when they collapse in a heap on his bed, not when they collide semi-painfully with each other and kiss to make it all better.

No, he doesn’t stop to think at all, not until Genji moves south along his body, mouthing against his clavicle, “I can’t believe this is happening,” and Zenyatta, feeling like he’s full of divine light, wraps his arms around this beautiful man’s shoulders and looks, looks up at his ceiling and sees–

“Oh god!”

Genji is off him in the instant, one arm twisting behind his back as if to reach for something, his face changing instantly from warm affection to steely fury as his eyes jump from Zenyatta below him to whatever’s above them.

“What is–” Whatever Genji is about to say falls silent. How else would a suitor respond when gazing up at 24 x 36 inch glossy-print of pissfig’s infamous Kamen Dragon “unsuited” design, illuminated sensuously by an official KD merchandise lamp.

“Oh my god.”

“Oh my god,” repeats Zenyatta as he curls up into a ball, using a Kamen Rider dakimura as a shield for what is currently happening in his bedroom.

Actually, that’s a terrible idea. He tosses the body pillow to the floor, safe side up, where Genji can’t possibly see it.

Genji is still gazing up at the poster with an odd look on his face. “Is that…m–” He stops himself, mouth opening and closing silently as he takes it all in.

“Please stop looking at it.”

“How can I not? It’s huge.” He finally does look away from it, intending to look Zenyatta in the eye for added effect but is then distracted by…. everything else in the room. “Oh my god.”

Zenyatta decides then that he will live out his days under his bed covers and wait for his brother to come fetch the embarrassing, heartbroken shell of himself when he doesn’t show up for any of their biweekly lunches.

From under the covers, he can feel Genji sliding off the bed and padding around the room. There’s a click just before the lights flicker on and Genji whistles.

Zenyatta knows what he’s seeing. On the walls left and right of the bed, heavy-duty shelves have been installed from ceiling to floor in order to store the sheer volume of a decade’s worth of Kamen Dragon paraphernalia. He likes to order the left wall as the site of all merchandise, such as action figures, while the right side has the dedicated projects of all the artists he’s met over the years with all…. sorts…. of lovely takes on everyone’s favorite masked hero. The wall directly opposite his bed was papered in commemorative t-shirts and posters, the floor decoratively littered with plushies and throw pillows with the hero’s face stamped on them.

“Zen, how old is this?”

Zenyatta peeks out from under the covers and sees Genji pointing at a fan-made decorated stand where the artist had done an art nouveau inspired take on Kamen Dragon’s earliest armor, the chrome build on synthetic skin body armor with the green LED running lights.

Zenyatta pulls the covers back over his head.

“I found it at a fan event about a week after Kamen Dragon had first introduced himself to the public.”

“…Your shit is ten years old?”

The covers are flung off as Zenyatta launches himself across the room at Genji.

“It is not shit, my collection is very important to me–”

Genji’s hands are already flying up in a gesture of surrender and placation. “Wrong word. I actually think this incredibly impressive. Kinda overwhelming? But mostly impressive.” He smiles, the same warm, delighted smile he’s always given him since they had met all those months ago, like an old friend seeing their other after so long. “I think it’s really cool how much dedication you’ve put into this.”

Zenyatta nearly collapses where he stands, his hands coming up to cover his eyes and cradle his face. “My brother would very kindly disagree with you.”

Genji gently pries away his hands, forcing him to look him in the eye before he asks, “Is that why you didn’t ever want me over?”

“It’s also because my brother only recently moved out, but yes. My brother has also told me in several different ways that if I ever wanted to be serious with you, I either had to tell you about my…. pre-occupation or throw out everything completely.”

Genji falls over with laughter.

“It’s not funny! Kamen Dragon’s marketing agent tracks me down after years of not living in Japan just for a documentary piece, whom I actually start to admire and like romantically and, and–”

“And?” Genji’s smirk is devilish as he waits for whatever comes next.

“Be honest,“ he dodges. "How would you feel if the person you wanted to date might also bring a camera crew to show the entire world how long I’ve been in love with–” Zenyatta shuts his mouth tight and Genji’s face goes slack.

“Holy shit.”

“No. No, no. Genji, I-I didn’t mean it like that.”

Genji falls to the floor in tears and laughter. “Holy shit!”

Zenyatta shoves him towards the door. “I can’t do this. Goodnight, Mr. Shimada.”

“Wait, wait.” Genji twists in his arms and pushes back against any more shoves. “Just wait! I wanna know one thing and I swear I won’t laugh.”

He, unfortunately, giggles at Zenyatta’s disbelieving look.

“I swear–I just.” He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath and when it’s over he looks as serious as he ever has. Or as serious as a half-dressed man standing in a room of fan merchandise can look.

Genji cups Zenyatta’s face, stroking along his cheekbone. “If Kamen Dragon appeared before you right now, confessing his love, would you leave him for me?”

“Out.”

Genji howls with laughter, hanging onto the door frame as Zenyatta tries to shove him over the threshold.

“I’m sorry, I had to!”

“No, you didn’t,” Zenyatta says, stepping on Genji’s exposed toes with his heel. “And you know what? I’d consider it.”

“Wait,” and now he sounds wounded, pulling back just far enough to get a good look at him. For a man in his thirties with hair going grey, he looks frustratingly adorable with a pout. “You’re just saying that because I’m being a dick.”

“Yes, you are and no, I mean it. Kamen Dragon was probably my first love, as strange as that may sound. You said it yourself when we first met, who wouldn’t be charmed by a masked hero who saves them on almost a weekly basis?”

“I–”

“When I was living alone in Japan, there was a time I felt Kamen Dragon was my only friend. And as infrequent as our meetings and run-ins were, he was always charming and gentlemanly. He was adventurous and bold and kind and when we talked late into the night I sometimes felt I knew how deep his heart was.”

Genji stares at him with an unreadable expression as he gestures at the risque poster above the bed. “I’ll admit it wasn’t an entirely pure feeling. Meeting a man with those shoulders and that voice at nineteen? I didn’t want to put that in your documentary.”

Zenyatta walked over to the fan merch wall and plucked a keychain from a stand, something made with acrylic and glitter. “But I was also proud of him. For rousing together an entire city against a mob that had held it hostage for centuries and for protecting it even when outside forces tried to rush into the power vacuum. He did it with such style and grace–Genji, you’ve met him. You must know what it’s like.”

Genji hardly seemed reactive but he responded eventually with, “What’s what like?”

“Just–him,” Zenyatta gestures grandly as if the whole encompassment would explain everything that Kamen Dragon is.

“If your first love, the person you’ve thought about for the past decade, came before you and said they’ve felt anything remotely similar to what you have held for them all these years, wouldn’t you stop to consider it as well?”

Genji didn’t respond to that, staring at Zenyatta as if he’d never seen him before. Which made him feel terrible because this was not how he wanted Genji to find out just how far he’s come to admire his superpowered client.

“That doesn’t mean,” Zenyatta tries to start, approaching Genji again. “That I would run off with him just like that. I would need more than rooftop chats from years ago and memories of running for my life when terrorist organizations tried to have him and anyone near him killed. I want–”

He slips his hand into Genji’s and it lights his heart when the man automatically squeezes it tightly, intertwining their fingers together.

“I want this. You. Every day or almost every day when you’re not busy. I want to text you when you’re not there or think about you when I can’t and yet be able to count on seeing you later. I want to talk about where we’re going and see your face and not wonder if–”

Zenyatta has never been kissed so gently before.

Genji takes his time with it, holding Zenyatta’s face like it’s something precious, mouth traveling from his and across his cheeks, around his eyes, and down the slope of his nose. He comes back to kiss him on the mouth, slow and deep and so, so gently before pulling away slightly.

“Tekhartha Zenyatta…”

There’s something I need to tell you.

#fanfic #submission #genyatta

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maywoodrpg · 5 years ago

Photo

IT’S TIME FOR THE MYSTERY TO BE REVEALED!

When: June 10th, 2020 @ 5PM

Where: The Primrose Hotel

What: Maywood Boxes for Charity Auction

Hosted by: @diegoxalvarez + @riskylindy

Disclaimer: I did try to pair people up with someone they might not always interact with from their bids. If you have any questions or concerns you can always message me on the main or privately on discord.

Please collect you box and date, then you are free to go out on your lovely adventure for the evening. Please make sure to take full advantage of those boxes and be on the look out for our amazing hosts who might be popping up with a surprise or two for all you lovely pairings.

***We ask that you do get threads up for these boxes and interact on the dash with them!

PAIRINGS FOR BOXES:

Cameron - Lucie

Lincoln - Nikahil

Sawyer - Antony

Sofie - Ava

Griffin - Josephine

Oliver - Jade

Dominic - Edgar

Rose - Zahra

Sutton - Daphne

Nathaniel - Alex

Emery - Elena

Zuri - Corinna

Thalia - Natalia

Listed below are all the boxes once more for reference:

The outside of the box is covered in black and white photographs from Maywood back in the 1800s. Inside the box there is a box of twizzlers because it is their favorite candy. Next to that there’s a picnic blanket, apple pie, a bottle of wine with two disposable glasses and a piece of lasagne to be shared, all on top of white linnen. Lastly there’s a disposable camera to be used whenever they want.

The outside of the box is covered in black background, with green binary computer code printed on top. On the inside, it’s lined in black velvet. The contents include: a single key, it looks like a regular car key, but it turns out to belong to a boat. Two premium steaks. Two bottles of wine; one white, and one a sweet red. A triple chocolate cherry coke cake for desert. A captain’s hat, and a securely wrapped candle that’s labeled ‘Ocean Water’.

Box consists of an unused cardboard box that was part of a gift from Christmas — 6x6 with a big rope tied into a messy bow. Beside the rope bow, he stuck on a Christmas bow, yes the red velvety kind. Inside, it has a six pack of beer ( freshly bought the day of ), a red and white frisbee, and a keychain of a longboard as a small reminder of the date. They purposefully packed these things into an unusually large box as to originally throw off the participants.

The box is covered in green fabric, silver ribbon encircling the rim of the box to help keep the fabric in place. Inside there are two wine glasses and a bottle of the Fortier wine circa 1991, a great vintage. Take out meals from a local Italian restaurant are inside wrapped up to keep warm as well as breadsticks. For dessert there’s a box of different colored macarons. A toy horse is nestled against the wine.

The outside of the box is a colorful array of glitter and marker, clearly decorated by a child. A good deal of space inside is taken up by a soccer ball and a jersey shirt. Next to it is a container of handmade Nacatamales, two beers, and a couple pieces of chocolate cake that’s been iced in an adorably messy way.

The box is a simple one, wrapped in solid light blue wrapping paper. Inside contains a boxed set collection of the Golden Girls, a handwritten invitation to Sweet Tooth Candy Shop, a picnic blanket, a copy of the Velvetten Rabbit, and an new, unused notebook. Situated on top of all of this is an envelop addressed to “my date.” The envelop contains a letter handwritten by them which thanks the bidder for choosing them and invites them to spend a relaxing day with them in the location of their choice, where they can chat, write a bit, eat some sweets, and just generally enjoy hanging out together.

The brown box was covered with a world map depicting where each major war had been fought. Inside the lining was fabric with the mayflower compact printed on it. A small copy of the Lord of the Rings: Return of the King is in the box along with a bottle of red wine and two wine glasses. There’s an envelope sealed with a wax stamp that reads “free history classes” on it. Also inside is a little box with twine tied around it with a note attached that says “inside is your first clue.“

The brown box has a dusty rose ribbon tied around the base of it along with cute glittery flowers covering the outside of the box. The inside is lined with a jewel tone blue fabric. There’s a blanket settled at the bottom with a bottle of red wine and two wine glasses set inside. Twinkle lights are spread throughout the box and little seashells are set around the wine glasses. Assorted sushi and chocolate covered strawberries are also inside along with a little hand written card that says “Meet me at the beach.”

The outside of the box is simple yet classic. Wrapped in silver and gold wrapping paper. Opening the box uncovers the sides and the bottom of the box are covered with a nice lace pattern. Within the box, there are two old fashioned glasses of cola, hamburger with all the fixings and two cartons of ice cream geared toward each other’s favorite flavor for dessert. Other items contained in the box include a movie and a fake movie ticket.

The outside of the box has a different image on each side. The first is a red rose growing out of what looks like a hill. The second is a cream colour with small yellow circles and stars. The third is a fox on a grassy field. The fourth is white, with three circles shaded to look like holes, with “what is essential is invisible to the eye” written in cursive. The top is sky blue, with what looks like a yellow scarf blowing in the wind. Inside the box, is a bottle of wine with two wine glasses, fresh bread, spreadable cheese, and homemade chocolate croissants. Underneath everything is a copy of the children’s book, The Little Prince.

On the inside of the box, it’s filled with a few layers of tissue paper rotating between the colors of blue and green. Placed on top of the paper is a picnic blanket. Placed on the blanket are two silver metal coffee mugs, a variety sushi platter and a scrumptious serving of fresh strawberry shortcake for dessert. Other items found in the box is a blow up beach volleyball and a small music speaker to listen to to some tunes.

On the outside of the box is a mod podged sealed collage of a variety of photos — playbill covers, concerts stills, printed off art images, etc with a white bow superglued to the top. The sides on the inside have a continuation of the collage but on the bottom lays a black velvet cushion, just big enough to fill the bottom of the box. On top lays a ticket that is plain white with gold lining with the words “MCC Theater Presents” spread across the top. It’s taped to a menu detailing several dishes, and drink options. Beneath that is red flyer for a band performance at Lucky’s, and a hand made ‘credit card’ with ‘tab on me’ sprawled where a name would typically be.

The outside of the box has been cushioned, covered with a blush pink satiny material. Little matching tulle buttons adorn the top. Meticulous; time was taken on the top of this box. Inside the box is the same satin fabric, no cushioning. Inside is a bottle of Rose, chocolate-covered strawberries, brie and crackers, figs covered in a balsamic sauce, prosciutto, salami, marinated olives. Inside also lies a white picnic blanket and a candleholder with two long candles. It’s about the romance.

#maywoodevent1 #maywoodevent

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