#i’ve yet to buy the game for myself but i REALLY want to!!

[giddlygoat]

YOU PLAYED ULTRAKILL HOW WAS IT

i played it once at a coworker’s house a few months back! it was WONDERFUL. i don’t remember which level i stopped on but i was playing for at least an hour. the movement and handling in the game is everything i love about playing scout in tf2, and the music is just DIVINE! the looks and environments of the game also had me exploding with joy and the whole thing is just so insanely satisfyinggggg i miss my wife [playing ultrakill] tails. i miss her a lot

[babymorte]

when they cancel plans to help you finish some games you’ve been stuck on for months 😭

[sierrale8ne]

40 DAYS AND 40 NIGHTS CHAPTER TWO

thought i’d be lying if i said ‘i didn’t want you to myself.’ when you look me in my eyes and, tell me that it’s mine, i…

pairing wnba!paige bueckers x singer!oc

taglist @thaatdigitaldiary @ohbueckers @patscorner @wbbgetsmewetter @makethemhoesmad @authentic-girl03 @rosemariiaa

kalena speakss 🪽! wanted to give yall another chapter tonight since college is kicking my butt atm and idk when the next update will be. hopefully soon tho!

May 2025 — Los Angeles, California 

“I just don’t see why you keep acting like our relationship doesn’t matter. I'm tired of acting like it doesn’t piss me off.” Julian spoke, disrupting the peace I had created for myself as I got dressed in the bathroom.

We were supposed to be getting ready for the Sparks home opener game against the Dallas Wings. I was exhausted from getting into LAX at an ungodly hour of the night, and now the conversation was giving me a headache.

“Ju, are we together?”

“Yes—”

“Did you ask me to be your girlfriend?” I turn around, slipping the mini gold hoops in my hand into my ears.

“No, but—”

I cut him off before he gets the chance to defend his position. “Then we’re not together.” I sigh. “I like where this is going, I really do, but we can’t keep having this conversation, Julian. I’m tired of it. This is just the way my career is working out right now.”

“So what? You make more money when the public thinks you’re single?” Julian asks. He’s very visibly frustrated, as he has been since before I even stepped off the stage in New York.

“No. I make more money when I keep the main thing the main thing. And right now the main thing is my music.” The words bounce off the wall for a moment, silence cutting through the air. I feel bad. He really is a great guy, and I hate to put him in a position like this, but it’s the way it has to be. “Ju’ come on. You have to understand where I’m coming from. I’m sorry.”

My hand reaches out for his shoulder, attempting to lessen the blow. Instead he steps back from me, shaking his head with a huff and leaving the bathroom. 

“Have fun at the game, ‘Raye.” He speaks as he leaves, and it’s my turn to huff.

I turned around. Looking intently at my reflection in the bathroom mirror. 

This is the closest thing I’ve had to a relationship in years, and yet, I’m spending the majority of it fighting over something dumb. But is it really dumb, or am I being insensitive?

I really do like Julian. He’s funny and sweet, he never fails to go out of his way to support me; I mean he just caught a flight to see me on Jimmy Fallon. He buys me flowers, he cares about communication, and all the little things. But for some reason I Just can’t keep up with it. 

It sucks.

—

May 2025 — Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, California 

The atmosphere in the arena is booming, and oddly enough I find myself surprised at how many people have filled Crypto. I’m seated courtside, underneath the basket nearest to The Sparks bench. The game is halfway through the first quarter and at a timeout when I take my seat. 

I have on a burgundy leather set from Fashion Nova. The shirt is a cropped button up that I only fastened at the bottom button and matching shorts. I’m wearing a pair of matching burgundy Prada slingback pumps that my recent success has gratefully allowed me to purchase. 

I sent a last minute text to my sister, telling her that Julian bailed and I would love it if she joined me, hence the slight tardiness. 

I’ve never seen Cassie as excited as she is right now. She’s beaming with energy, you would’ve thought she’s been planning this for months rather than being invited last minute. She’s for sure more of a basketball fan than I am, I credit that to my uncle. Whereas my dad made me more of a football fan.

“You’re gonna be getting infinite Christmas gifts this year for this, oh my God.” Cassie jokes with a kool aid smile on her face. I giggle, brushing her off.

“I’m glad you’re having fun, Cassie.” I giggle, brushing her off playfully. My phone dings, and I pull it up from my lap to check the notification.

Hey I feel like shit about earlier

Talk when you get home?

It’s Julian. Of course it’s Julian. I try to fight the urge to frown but I can’t help the way the disheartened expression forms in my face. I shut my phone off, shaking the feeling off and turning back to the game.

The buzzer sounds, alerting us that the game is starting again. It allows me to finally bring my attention back to the game. The Sparks are down seven, but you couldn’t even tell that the fans were bothered by it. 

“Jumbotron.” My sister whispers to me and I notice the camera moving past ‘celebrity row’ and getting shots of everyone.

“Bro.” I groan. I don’t hate it, it just gets so awkward. The camera man stays out there for too long and then I forget what to do with my hands. 

But regardless, the camera approaches me and my sister. I look up briefly at the Jumbotron before back down at the camera in front of me. A smile spreads to my face and I wave emphatically. Fortunately it doesn’t take very long and the camera man backs away a little.

Only briefly though, because within a matter of seconds he’s crashing to the ground and his large camera falls into Casandra’s lap.

During all the basketball games I’ve ever watched, I’ve always wondered how common the players run into the media crew or the stands. And every time I've sat in an arena, I’ve always said it would never be me. So you can imagine my surprise when a 6 '1 Paige Bueckers fell right on me after getting fouled going for a layup, knocking over the camera man in the process.

“Oh shit, man you good?” Paige asks him. Her hand helps steady him on his feet and Cassie hands him his camera back, mumbling hurriedly if he was alright. The man nods, patting her on the back.

My eyes meet hers, and suddenly I’ve never seen a prettier set of eyes. A shade of blue that was indescribable. Her hand reaches out to the both of us, palms outstretched as she asks, “Are you guys okay?” It comes out as a stutter and I barely notice it but it’s there.

I nod. And then I remember she still has free throws to shoot. “Yeah. All good, thanks.” I smile. Paige turns around, brushing her teammates off with thumbs ups and high fives when they ask if she’s alright. 

I would be an idiot to say that I wasn’t a little star struck. Sure, I wasn’t completely up to date with all things basketball, but I knew more than enough to know just how much Paige Bueckers was loved in the basketball community. Hell, the city of LA basically through a parade when they got that #1 overall pick.

She was a superstar, in all possible definitions of the word. You couldn’t go more than five minutes without seeing her face on TikTok or some commercial. 

And she was stunning; the last five seconds of me staring at her confirmed it in my mind even more.

—

“Thanks, Holly.” I beam with a smile. It only takes a few seconds of me walking away from postgame to hear yelling in my ear and Cam’s long arms around my shoulders.

In the least cocky way possible, I played an amazing game. Yes, the defense I faced tonight was different than when I was at Connecticut and efficiency wise I did struggle a bit. Who am I kidding— I played phenomenal.

26 points 9 rebounds and 7 assists, the pick-and-roll with Dearica racking up many of those. The team came out with a narrow win over the Wings, getting our season off on the right foot.

“That’s my fuckin’ rook!” I hear Azura Stevens hype me up. I dap her up cleanly, the smile on my face physically impossible to get rid of. For only being on the team for a month, they did a great job of welcoming me with open arms. 

I could definitely get used to this.

A towel hangs around my neck, picking up all the sweat from the game. I’m walking towards the locker rooms with a few of my teammates when I get pulled back for some autographs. I don’t say no, honestly I can’t remember the last time I refused to sign an autograph. Or if I ever did. 

There’s a young girl in front of me alongside her mom. She has on the UConn National Championship shirt from a month ago, her eyes wide as she pushes my sparks jersey up to me. I sign it with a smile, my heart swelling in size when she squeals and thanks me profusely.

“You’re welcome. Thanks for coming out!” I grin. My feet carry me through a few more fans. I sign all sorts of memorabilia from hoodies, to jerseys, phone cases, and shoes. As well as a wild number of selfies before I hear my name.

“Paige, come here!” It’s Rickea, as her voice has become widely recognizable in the last month that I’ve been here. “Oh my God, walk slower!”

I roll my eyes as I pick up my pace. She’s standing courtside with her warmups on. “Finally. I wanted you to meet a friend of mine. Maraye, this is Paige.”

When I look over it’s the girl from the TV last night, standing there with her purse in hand and— oh my God I ran into her like an hour ago. I fell into her lap. Oh my God this is embarrassing.

She looks even more gorgeous than when I was drooling over her last night. Her hair is the same, from what I can remember, but her outfit is completely different. The color she has on is similar to the one from last night, but the set shows off so much more skin. Her legs are toned, the top she wears is unbuttoned just enough to give me a show of the lace black bralette under it, and her gold septum shines in the arena light. 

“Hey.” I greeted her and the girl who sat next to her earlier in the night. “I do apologize about earlier by the way.”

“Don’t worry about it. It happens.” She reassures me.

“P, Cam, and I were watching the show last night. You did great, Raye.” Rickea pushes at Maraye’s shoulder. My eyes catch how she blushes in response. 

“You on a world tour or something? New York last night, and LA tonight.” I joke, and she laughs. Her laugh is possibly more angelic than her singing, and the way her accent popped out when she spoke might even have an edge on that.

“Nah. I just couldn’t miss opening night. Kea’ would never let me live it down, plus my sister is like a huge hoops fan.” She explains, gesturing to the two women next to us. 

I’m towering over her as I look at her but she still keeps eye contact with me. My eyes never leave hers, I didn’t even want them to.

“I was just telling her about Cam and Ben’s dinner party on friday.” Rickea starts. She turns to face me, but I’m still stuck on Maraye and her— well her everything. Rickea swats my arm as slyly as she can to get my attention. My eyes rip away from the musician with an incredulous force. “You are going to that, right?”

“I, uh, I’m not sure. I gotta check on when Drew and my dad are coming to town.”

“Maybe I’ll see you there then?” Maraye speaks. 

Someone please help me figure out why her eyes are so mesmerizing. They’re big and a perfect shade of brown. The slight tilt of her head when she asks me nearly drives me crazy.

“Yeah maybe.” I nod before looking at Rickea. I don’t know how long we’ve stood here, but what I do know is that coach will hand our asses to us on a silver platter if we’re late to the first media session of the season. “Yo, we gotta…” My head tilts towards the tunnel.

“Oh shit you’re right. It was so good to see you guys!” She jumps, pulling Maraye and her sister into a group hug. “Tell y’all folks I say hi!”

The four of us exchange waves and we walk off the court. By the time we make it to the tunnel Rickea is letting out a loud cackle and pushing me away from her. “You’re not even trying to hide it!” She laughs. I know exactly what she’s talking about but I act clueless, it’s too early for my teammates to be ridiculing me over my choices in women.

“You are sooooo going to that dinner party.”

A smirk spreads on my face and I roll my eyes. For the first time all month, I can’t even disagree. Nothing is stopping me from going to that dinner party.

[archiveikemen]

"Tamed By The Villain in The Dark" Story Sale

Liam Evans

Content Warning: unprotected sex, anal sex??/doggy depends on how you want to interpret it because it's vague as usual, afab mc + mention of female body parts

This is a fan-made translation solely for entertainment purposes with no guaranteed perfection; expect mistakes, grammatical errors, and some creative liberties. All original content and media used belongs to Cybird. Please support the game by buying their stories and playing their games. Reblogs appreciated.

Read this before interacting

Kate: Shall we try it blindfolded?

Liam: … Huh?

It was a quiet night where I could spend time with my beloved, without worrying about missions or being busy.

Liam was surprised by the idea I mustered the courage to bring up— the look on his face changed.

Liam: Did anyone… did Al put strange ideas into your head?

While I wasn't exactly chaste around Liam, I was rarely ever that bold either.

It seemed that Liam thought it was someone else who influenced me to suddenly suggest doing it blindfolded.

Kate: That’s not true. I thought of this on my own accord.

Liam: You did? But why… all of a sudden…

Liam: … Am I no longer enough for you?

All hints of emotion on his face instantly vanished and he firmly grabbed my shoulders.

Kate: Not at all! I’ve never thought that you’re not enough for me.

Liam: … Really? Then why?

Kate: Whenever we’re making love, whenever we kiss… whenever we touch, I’m always on the receiving end.

Kate: Sometimes, out of curiosity, I feel like I want to try something different on my end.

Liam: And that's why… you suggested doing it blindfolded?

Kate: Yes, because it’s painless and doesn’t require any special tools.

Liam: I- I see…

Liam finally relaxed his grip on my shoulders.

Kate: Let me ask again… what do you think? Shall we try playing with blindfolds?

Liam always treated me with extreme kindness, accepting every one of my wishes.

However, I didn't want him to agree to my suggestion just because I said it, but because he wanted it himself…

I took a peek at his facial expression, making sure I wasn't making him feel too pressured.

Liam: Since you suggested it, of course I’m all for it! Fufu… I’m a really lucky man.

Liam: Before I met you, I resorted to risky ways to satisfy my curiosity.

Liam: Now, it's you who satisfies me and keeps me alive. I’m very happy about that.

Liam: … I’ll always be grateful to you.

Liam whispered those words of gratitude and gently kissed me on the lips.

Liam: … So, who will be the blindfolded one?

Kate: I don’t mind either. Let’s go with whichever you want, Liam.

Liam: Hmm, I think I’d enjoy both, but…

Liam: Wouldn't you feel lost if I’m blindfolded?

Kate: That’s… that’s true.

It was easy to imagine my embarrassment getting in the way and spoiling the mood.

Liam: Then it’s settled! I’ll take the lead.

…

Liam: Is this too tight?

Kate: Nope, it’s fine.

We moved onto the bed and Liam blindfolded me with a handkerchief, securing it behind my head.

(The room isn't well lit at night, so being blindfolded really makes it look pitch black…)

Although I knew that Liam was close by, I felt a little anxious and reached my hand out searching for him.

Liam: I’m right here.

Liam’s soothing voice melted my anxiety away as he pulled my hand closer to him, and I felt a familiar smooth surface at my fingertips.

(This is… Liam’s face.)

Liam chuckled when I moved my fingers across his cheek like I was stroking a cat.

(... I wish I could see the look on his face right now.)

Even though I couldn't see, I could imagine his smile, but it just wasn't the same as seeing it.

We were only at the blindfolding stage, and yet I was already yearning for him. I inwardly laughed at myself.

Liam: Oh, right… I’m not going to do anything mean, but we should still decide on a safe word just in case.

Kate: A safe word…?

Liam: A word you can use to let me know if you don’t feel good or don't want me to do something.

(Right… he can’t read my facial expression as usual when I’m blindfolded.)

Kate: Then… let’s go with “hate”. It's a word I’ll never use with you, unless it’s something severe.

Liam: Okay. I’ll stop immediately if you say it.

Liam: … Although I might get so shocked, my heart stops beating.

Liam jokingly said with a smile, but I knew those words reflected his true feelings.

A single word from me was enough to end his life.

The weight of my words to him alone told me everything about how much he loved me.

(... But it’s mutual.)

A single word from him can end my life too.

That was how I knew the depth of my love for him.

If I was to lose Liam, my world would lose its brightest star and fall into pitch darkness, just like being blindfolded.

Kate: — Liam.

Liam: Yeah, Kate?

In the darkness where I couldn't see, Liam’s voice sounded much more precious than ever.

Kate: … Please always be by my side.

Liam: Of course. I’m not going anywhere while you’re blindfolded.

My request wasn't only for the present moment, but also for the future. Liam was unaware of that.

It was enough for me that Liam, who once held no hope for the future, could make that promise.

Liam: Have you adjusted to being blindfolded? I’m going to lay you down now.

Liam placed on hand on my back for support as he gently lowered me onto the bed.

I felt glad he treated me with more tenderness than usual because I couldn’t see through the blindfold.

(I can never… trust anyone else with my body in the dark.)

I realised another thing I could only do with Liam, the man I loved and trusted more than anyone else.

The bed creaked as Liam got on top of me while slipping his hand underneath my clothes.

Kate: Ah…

Being unable to see meant that I wouldn't know when he was going to touch me, so even the slightest touch made me moan.

Liam: … Are you okay?

Kate: Y-Yes… just surprised.

Liam: Heh…

Liam responded with a mischievous chuckle and went on to slowly massage my breasts.

A burning feeling of frustration was bubbling inside my body.

Liam: Your nipples are getting pointy… still surprised?

Liam teasingly traced his fingers around my nipples without touching them.

Kate: Ah… nng… ahhh! P-Please touch me…

I was usually more reserved in bed, but having my eyes covered made me feel bold.

I begged Liam to release me from the frustration building up in me.

Liam: Fufu… alright. I’ll touch wherever you want me to, Kate.

He pinched my nipples between his fingers, stimulating them.

Kate: Nngh… ohh…

Liam: … Your face is red. Feeling good?

Liam: I haven't touched you here yet…

His fingers poked at their sensitive peaks.

Kate: Ahh… t-this is strange… I’m more sensitive than usual… ggh

(I thought being blindfolded wouldn't make much difference…)

(His feeling of his hands against my skin feels hotter and more pleasurable than usual…)

Liam: Strange? Not at all. Your other senses are heightened because you can’t see. Like this…

Kate: Nn…!

The mere feeling of his breath against my ear made me shiver.

Liam: Ahaha, you’re a cutie. … I’m going to love you even more.

Liam nibbled on my ear, flicking the auricle with the tip of his tongue while continuing to stimulate the peaks of my breasts.

Liam: … Ah, you’re turning red here too.

Kate: That’s because you're touching me.. ahh…!

I twisted my body away, feeling embarrassed being the only one seen.

But Liam pinned me down by the shoulders, not allowing me to escape.

Liam: It’s okay, don’t be shy. Let me see more.

I wondered when my clothes got removed as Liam repeatedly dropped kisses on my bare chest.

Liam: … Ahh, you look so delicious. I can't help but get excited at the sight of your reddened skin.

Liam slid his fingers across my chest, tracing the kiss marks he left.

Even that slight touch brought me immense pleasure, causing a tingling sensation in the pit of my stomach.

Liam: … I’ll pleasure you with my hands until I’m all you can think of.

In that split second I felt relieved when his hand moved away from my chest—

He pulled my panties off, exposing the lower half of my body to the chilly air.

Liam: They're already this ruined… you’re so lovely, Kate.

Kate: Wha—.... ahh!

Liam stimulated the wet spot at the apex of my legs with his fingers.

Liam: … Hear these wet sounds? The sound of you getting wet for me…

Liam’s fingers were covered in my love juices as he rubbed my sensitive spot.

Kate: Ahh… nnn…!

Liam: Did you cum already…? You came faster than usual. Could it be because you’re blindfolded?

Kate: Haah… L-Liam… wait…

I rolled over and got onto all fours to catch my breath.

(Since I’m blindfolded, this should be a safe position…)

Liam: … You tell me to wait, but your position says otherwise.

Kate: Huh…?

Not giving me even a tiny bit of time to rest, Liam roughly grabbed my hips.

Liam: Here too, it’s twitching like it’s hungry for something… is it feeling lonely? Let me fill it up then…

Kate: … AHH!

He lifted my butt and penetrated deep inside me from behind like a wild beast.

Liam: Fufu… we’re really… like cats…

Kate: Eek…! Ahh, ahhh…!

Every time my body shook, cries of pleasure escaped my open mouth.

Kate: L-Liam… stop…

Liam: Haah… the word is “hate” if you really want me to stop…

Liam: It’s okay if you want to say the word.

Liam’s sweet whisper oozed into my ears and to my head, melting my entire body all the way down to my hips.

(I don't want to say “hate”... because I… actually…)

Kate: …

Kate: Liam… I want… more…

Liam: … I can’t go easy on you if you say that.

We made love over and over again in that neverending darkness—

…

By the time we were done, my sense of time was already completely messed up.

(Is it morning already…? I can’t tell with the blindfold on.)

(I still think I was the only one feeling good…)

(What about Liam? Did he feel even the slightest bit of pleasure…?)

Kate: Liam, are you awake?

Liam: Of course. I’ve been watching you.

Kate: I want to see your face, Liam.

Liam: …

Kate: … Liam?

Liam: Ah… sorry, let me remove it for you right away.

The blindfold was finally removed, and I saw the morning sun rising in the distance.

Liam, whose face I’ve been longing to see, wore a complicated expression. It looked like a mix of fulfilment and distress.

Kate: … Is something wrong?

Liam: I just got the thought that if you can’t see, I’ll be the only one in your world; and that would make me insanely happy.

Liam: Then I realised that if that's the case, our eyes wouldn't get to meet like this. So I think it’s still better if you remain able to see.

(That’s why he hesitated to remove the blindfold…)

Kate: … You’re right. It’s better if I can see… because I want to look at you.

Liam: Yeah… I’ll always be in your beautiful eyes.

I want us to forever be in each other’s worlds, until the very moment the lights fade from these eyes.

We exchanged a gentle kiss and sank back into the bed again.

[meazalykov]

wrong number

bayern munich frauen x lena oberdorf x reader

1/6, 2/6, 3/6, 4/6, 5/6, 6/6

summary: you're the honorary bayern munich teammate.

the excitement fills your veins as you land in lisbon. 

you’re finally here, and it’s hard to believe. lena doesn't even know yet—you wanted to surprise her, to be there in person for the match of her life. it’s been a long journey from buying the ticket, keeping it quiet, and making your way to portugal, but every step felt worth it because nothing, absolutely nothing, would have kept you from being here to support lena in the champions league final.

hours later, you’re waiting anxiously in your hotel room when a knock finally comes. you open the door to find lena, looking tired but smiling, and her face lights up as she sees you.

"you made it," she says, stepping forward to hug you tightly. she lets out a deep breath, and you feel some of the tension melt from her shoulders.

"of course i did," you say, hugging her back, brushing a hand over her back. 

"how could i miss this? tomorrow’s the match of your life. are you nervous?"

she pulls back slightly, her smile fading as she flops onto the bed beside you. 

"yeah… a little," she admits, looking away. 

"it’s more than that, though. i keep thinking about the final in 2023… it’s like this shadow hanging over everything. it won’t go away." her voice goes quieter, and you see just how much she’s carrying from that day that you’re unfamiliar with.

you sit beside her, reaching out to take her hand. 

"do you want to talk about it? what happened in 2023?"

she nods, her gaze fixed on a spot across the room. 

"it was against barcelona, with wolfsburg. we were up 2-0, and then everything just… fell apart. they scored three goals in, like, eight minutes. i felt so helpless. all those months of training, just to lose like that. sometimes it feels like i haven’t shaken it off."

you squeeze her hand gently. 

"i can’t imagine how tough that must’ve been. losing on that stage, with everyone watching… it’s okay that it still hurts. a lot of people would feel the same. i also know that you’re stronger now."

she looks over at you, a small smile finally breaking through before giving you a light kiss. 

"thanks. i don’t know… i’ve tried to push it out of my head, but tomorrow feels like a chance to finally put it behind me. i want to prove to myself that i’m not that same person who let it slip away." she whispers against you.

you run your thumb across her knuckles, trying to pour all your reassurance into that small touch. 

"and you’re not. you’re here, stronger and smarter, and you’ve learned so much. but whatever happens tomorrow, you’re still amazing. i’m just so proud of you."

a soft blush colors her cheeks as she squeezes your hand back, her gaze meeting yours as her forehead rests against yours. 

"thank you. it really helps, having you here. more than you know."

after a while, she heads back to her hotel room for a good night's sleep, leaving you with a warm, happy feeling that stays with you until morning. 

it’s surreal, thinking back to a year ago when this whole thing started with a wrong number. now you’re here, in lisbon, to watch the woman you love play in one of the biggest games of her life.

the next day, you find yasmeen at the stadium entrance, her face lighting up when she spots you. she flew in from america just to keep you company, and you feel a rush of gratitude as you hug her.

"ready for the match of your life?" she grins, eyes sparkling.

"more ready than i’ve ever been," you laugh, feeling your own excitement build up. you’re both practically vibrating as you take your seats, and when the game kicks off, it’s all you can focus on. 

seeing lena on the bench doesn’t dim your excitement—she’ll get her moment, and you know it.

the game starts off tense. city’s vivianne scores in the 20th minute, and the bayern fans around you groan. you try to keep your spirits up, leaning forward and clapping.

"come on, girls!" you shout in german, even though your voice is quickly swallowed by the roar of the crowd.

yasmeen chuckles beside you, giving you a supportive pat. 

"you’re so into it already."

you grin. 

"it’s impossible not to be. they’re incredible."

just before halftime, bayern’s perseverance pays off. in the 45th minute, klara sets up a perfect cross, and pernille rises up to head it in, tying the score. 

you leap out of your seat, clapping wildly as yasmeen cheers beside you.

"yes! let’s go, harder!" you yell, grinning from ear to ear.

at halftime, a fan behind you taps your shoulder and asks for a photo. she’s wearing a lena jersey, and you assume she just wants a picture with "lena’s girlfriend." 

you’re hesitant but smile and take the photo with her. when yasmeen teases you, you roll your eyes and laugh it off, though you can’t deny you’re a little flattered.

"look at you, getting famous," yasmeen nudges you. 

"you’re practically the team’s mascot at this point."

"shut up," you laugh, feeling your cheeks warm. 

"all i am is lena’s slightly anxious but very supportive girlfriend."

the second half starts off rough. city’s bunny shaw scores twice in under nine minutes, and the atmosphere in the bayern section gets tense. you bite your lip, glancing at yasmeen for reassurance as the clock ticks on.

bayern doesn’t let up. lea schüller scores in the 55th minute just one minute after shaw scored city’s third goal, and it feels like a breath of fresh air. 

one more goal, and they’ll be even again. you clap, your hands sore but determined, and yell encouragement, hoping somehow the team can hear you all the way on the bench.

then, in the 68th minute, pernille gets her second goal, equalizing. the stadium erupts, and you jump out of your seat, pulling yasmeen into a hug. 

this match has you on the edge of your seat, your heart racing with every pass, every tackle.

a commotion catches your attention near the right side of the pitch, and you see sydney in a heated exchange with alex greenwood. sydney is keeping the ball away from greenwood as the ref tries to intervene. you can’t help but chuckle as yasmeen leans over. 

"what’s going on with them?"

"just sydney being sydney," you say, grinning. 

"kidding. i’m not sure, maybe sydney just wants to give her team a breather.” 

minutes later, in the 79th minute, lena stands at the sideline, preparing to sub in. your heart skips a beat as you slip off your light blue button-up longsleeve to reveal your oberdorf jersey underneath. yasmeen catches sight of it and snickers.

"i wonder if she’ll get a yellow card within the first five minutes."

"probably," you mutter with the pride in your voice. you’re just thrilled to see her out there, part of the game she’s worked so hard to return to.

she’s barely on the pitch when, in the 81st minute, she makes a classic side tackle on mary fowler, and you and yasmeen exchange a look. 

lena gets a warning, but she’s unfazed, her focus sharp.

the clock’s ticking, and tension fills the air. then, in the 88th minute, lena sets up an assist to sydney, who powers the ball into the net, bringing the score to 3-3. 

you jump up, screaming as loud as you can, caught up in the joy of the moment.

at this point, your mind starts to wander, reflecting on how far you’ve come. a year ago, you were just a student in virginia, living a quiet life. now, you’re in lisbon, watching the woman you love play in a champions league final, surrounded by friends and fans. it feels surreal.

yasmeen nudges you, drawing you back to the game. 

"imagine if lena scores the winning goal."

"i hope," you murmur, watching her with bated breath as she passes the ball to tuva, who then lightly passes it to ana. 

ana crosses up to klara, who leaps up for a perfect header. the ball sails into the net, and the stadium explodes in cheers. the scoreboard lights up,

4-3.

klara runs to the corner, celebrating, and you watch in awe as the team surrounds her. then she turns and sends a heart your way, her hands forming the shape in the air. you send one back, beaming as yasmeen chuckles beside you.

the final whistle blows, and it’s like the whole stadium erupts at once. the scoreboard is locked at 4-3, with bayern’s victory glowing bright, but it’s hard to believe until you see the girls flood the pitch, their faces breaking into elated, disbelieving smiles. 

yasmeen nudges you, and you turn to see her beaming.

“they really did it,” she says, a little in awe herself. 

“and they really love you, huh?” you laugh, heart swelling as you watch the team embrace, overcome by what they've achieved.

“guess i just got lucky,” you murmur, and you mean it.

after the immediate celebration dies down a bit, the trophy ceremony begins, the crowd cheering louder as each player receives their medal, eyes glistening with the weight of the win. confetti rains down, golden and shimmering in the stadium lights, and you feel a lump in your throat. they’ve worked so hard for this.

suddenly, you hear a voice calling your name. you turn to see sydney and tuva waving, beckoning you over. before you can process it, they’re running up, reaching over the barricade to pull you across it.

“you’re coming with us,” sydney insists, her grip firm, and tuva laughs, nodding in agreement. they drag you toward the heart of the celebration, and you glance back at yasmeen, who waves you off with a smile.

“go have fun!” she calls, and you smile back gratefully.

you barely have a second to catch your breath before you spot lena jogging toward you, her face flushed with happiness, eyes bright under the stadium lights. she wraps you in her arms, lifting you slightly, and you cling to her, laughing as she swings you back and forth.

“we did it,” she breathes, her voice full of amazement.

“you did it,” you correct, pulling back just enough to look at her. her eyes search yours, and you can see that same mixture of pride and disbelief.

“i still can’t believe it,” she whispers, her hands resting on your shoulders. 

“it feels… surreal.”

you smile, brushing a strand of confetti from her hair. 

“it’s real. and you deserve every bit of it, obi!”

lena smiles, a little teary-eyed, then leans in and presses a soft kiss to your cheek, lingering there as if she wants to soak up the moment. 

“thank you for being here,” she says quietly, and you can hear the depth of her gratitude, her voice soft and genuine.

“i wouldn’t have missed this for anything,” you whisper back, feeling your own emotions rise.

nearby, klara is holding the trophy, posing for pictures, her grin as wide as you’ve ever seen. when she spots you, she waves you over, gesturing for you to come closer. you hesitate, feeling a rush of self-consciousness. 

you’re not a player, after all—you didn’t sweat and fight for this trophy like they did.

“come on!” klara calls, laughing at your reluctance. 

“get in here!”

you make your way over, feeling a bit out of place, and she hands you the trophy, the massive silver and blue prize weighing heavy in your hands. 

the moment feels surreal, and you look at klara, a little overwhelmed.

“are you sure?” you ask, voice soft.

she grins. 

“absolutely. you’re part of this team, too, you know.”

lena’s hand slips into the side of your waist as she steps closer, nodding with a warm smile. 

“she’s right, you know,” lena says, giving your hand a squeeze. 

“you’re like our honorary teammate.”

you smile, heart racing, and glance around at the team gathered around you. it’s a strange feeling—this sense of belonging among these women who have worked and sacrificed so much. 

they’re looking at you with genuine affection, the bond you’ve built with them over time stronger than you’d ever realized.

“alright,” you say, laughing, feeling a bit more relaxed as they crowd in around you. 

“but only because you all insisted.”

they cheer, pulling you into the picture, arms wrapped around one another, laughing and shouting in excitement as the photographer snaps photo after photo. you can feel the joy radiating from each of them, the weight of this accomplishment shared and celebrated together. 

when klara makes a heart with her hands, aiming it at you, your chest tightens with warmth.

yasmeen, watching from the stands, raises her thumbs up and laughs, mouthing “so popular!” and you give her a teasing eye-roll, smiling at her playfully.

finally, as the photos wrap up and the team disperses to greet more of their friends and family, lena pulls you aside to meet her parents, holding you close as you both take in the night. 

the lights of the stadium are soft now, the crowd gradually fading, and it’s just you two talking to her family, standing side by side in the quiet after the storm of victory.

“i’m so proud of you,” you say to lena after her family leaves the stadium, voice thick with emotion. 

“watching you play, seeing you out there after everything you’ve been through… it’s incredible.”

lena’s eyes soften, her fingers tracing the outline of your hand. 

“i couldn’t have done it without you,” she murmurs.

“you’ve been here every step, even when i was sidelined and frustrated. you kept me going.”

you smile, your heart swelling with pride and love. 

“that’s what teammates are for, right?”

she laughs softly, her gaze tender. 

“then it’s settled,” she says, her smile widening. 

“you are officially our honorary bayern teammate.”

the words echo in your mind, wrapping around you like a warm embrace, and you know that this night, this moment, will stay with you forever.

masterlist

authors note: I hope you enjoyed this six parts series :) I started it 10/1 and finished this part last night before a halloween party I had to attend lol

[laiqualaurelote]

Oooh! Charles/Edwin, musicians/band/orchestra AU for the ask game? :D

thank you for the prompt! (from this AU ask game - it turned out more a Crystal POV but I think the fandom could use more of that)

“Edwin,” says Crystal, “if you take the fucking theorbo onstage I will kill you myself.”

Edwin folds his arms mutinously around the theorbo, which when stood upright on the ground is nearly as tall as he is. “But we need it for the sound!”

“You literally have a billion other instruments! Play those instead.”

“I do not literally have a billion instruments,” says Edwin. “I literally have three. Are we to have lugged the theorbo all the way to the club for nothing?”

“You did not lug the theorbo here,” Crystal points out. “Charles lugged the theorbo here, because he carries all your shit for you.”

“‘Course I do,” says Charles brightly. “Don’t bother me one bit.”

“Charles, you had to push his harpsichord all the way across Hoxton!”

“And the people of Hoxton loved it,” says Charles nostalgically.

Crystal sighs. “Either that theorbo is going onstage or I am, because there isn’t enough space on there for both of us. Literally.”

“I could stand on an amp,” ventures Niko, “and then there would be more room?”

“Niko, honey, you’re not standing on an amp.”

The door bangs open and Jenny sticks her head into the dressing room. “Why are you guys not ready?”

“Crystal and Edwin haven’t decided if we’re bringing out the theorbo yet,” says Niko. “Also, I’m still doing Edwin’s nails, and he can’t play until they’ve dried.”

Jenny throws her hands up in despair. “Why does Edwin have to have his nails done?”

“I think lilac really is his colour,” murmurs Niko, crouched over Edwin’s left ring finger. “Don’t you agree?”

Edwin, who is sitting primly on a flight case in the three-piece suit he insists on wearing to every show, gives Jenny a regal nod of assent.

“For fuck’s sake,” mutters Jenny. “I should never have agreed to manage you idiots. I could have had all my Friday nights in bed with a crime drama.” She inhales. “Anyway, we have a problem. David’s here. He’s in the front row.”

The world narrows. Crystal hates how just the sound of his name can do that to her, for all that it’s been months since she got out from under his thumb. “How’d he know—”

“I did put it all over Instagram,” says Niko anxiously. “Crystal, do you want to cancel, or—”

“No,” hisses Crystal. “No. I can do this. It’s fine. I’m fine.”

“Crystal,” says Edwin, “with all due respect, you are not fine. You are shaking.”

Crystal puts her head in her hands. “It’ll pass.”

She feels Niko’s arms go around her. Overhead, she hears Charles say: “Maybe I should just go out there now and knock his lights out.”

“Or I could stab him,” offers Jenny. “I’ve got the boning knife in the van.”

“We are not knifing my ex right before a show!” yells Crystal.

“Thomas could sort it out,” suggests Edwin. “It is his club, after all. I shall go speak with him.”

“Like hell you will,” Charles protests. “That arsehole won’t lift a finger to help.”

“He will if it’s me asking,” says Edwin. “Now come on. Do you want to play tonight or not?”

*

Edwin Payne is the last person you’d expect to start a rock band. Piano virtuoso, played his debut concerto at the age of eight, won the Liszt at twelve and BBC Young Musician at thirteen. Had it all lined up: scholarship to the Royal College of Music, orchestras queuing round the block to fling gigs at him. Then: unspecified breakdown. Vanished from public view for three years. As a former child pop star herself, Crystal gets it. Okay, so maybe whatever happened with Edwin wasn’t as extreme as drunk-driving your way into a fender-bender so dire that even your platinum award-winning parents couldn’t buy enough spin to keep you out of the tabloids. Anyhoo. The past is the past. Crystal’s living for the present now. 

Of course, she was aware of none of this when she auditioned. As far as she knew, this band had one cute guy and one dickhead snob who clearly didn’t think any decent music had been composed since the 19th century, and who dismissed her CV with a snide “We’re not exactly looking for Hannah Montana here” — whereupon Crystal looked him dead in the eye and sang, pitch-perfect, the first verse of Caro Mio Ben. Edwin pursed his lips like his mouth was a vinegar distillery and said: “Hardly Bartoli, but I suppose she’ll do.” 

Charles punched him in the shoulder. “Oi, mate, be nice.” To Crystal: “You’re loads better than Hannah Montana. Honestly I’m surprised he even knows who Hannah Montana is.”

Crystal could have walked then. She almost did. She was getting her life back together, out of her parents’ shadows and on her own terms; she didn’t need this shitty little band with its one-half shitty leadership. To this day she doesn’t know why she stayed. Maybe it was the open warmth of Charles’ grin, maybe it was the glint of challenge in Edwin’s eye — a heady combo of affection and spite bubbling up in her chest. 

“So what’s the name of this band?”

“It’s aces, you’ll love it,” said Charles. “Spooky Action At A Distance.”

“That,” said Crystal, “is the stupidest fucking band name I’ve ever heard.”

“It is a quantum science concept,” said Edwin frostily, “not that I expect you to understand.”

“It’s sad,” Crystal went on. “Literally, its acronym is SAAAD.”

“I am beginning to regret this,” said Edwin in a too-loud aside to Charles. “Must we have someone on vocals?”

“Look, will you two just jam together one time? It’ll be aces, I promise.”

“So what does Little Lord Fauntleroy play then?” Crystal snapped. “Does he tinkle on the pianoforte after supper?”

Charles chuckled. Edwin arched an eyebrow at Crystal and held out his hand to Charles, who reached down behind them and pulled out a goddamn Fender Strat.

Edwin played a few experimental chords, tuning up, and then his fingers slid and it was Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, but not like Crystal had ever heard it, wild lightning runs of arpeggios where every note was somehow picked out with the clarity of blown glass. Crystal knew her jaw had dropped, which she seemed unable to do anything about at the moment. The guitar sang in Edwin’s hands, and he never once broke a sweat or eye contact with her.

“Holy shit,” she said when it was over.

“I quite agree.” Edwin flexed his fingers, then stuck out his hand for her to shake. “Allow me to formally welcome you to our little band.”

[bangchansgirlsblog]

The way you look at her PT 2

-Hyunjin

Warning: Fluff, angst, crying

Pairing: Hyunjin x Reader

Summary: Hyunjin introduces you to his girlfriend...

Does he know you have feelings for him?

!Kinda proofread!

I hate this so much OH MY GOD. Please bare with me lol! I’ve had writers block! 🩷

**

The night was horrible.

After the new couple walked into the house if felt like the atmosphere had changed. It felt like everyone was uncomfortable. Maybe I was overthinking it but i knew I was ready to go to bed.

“So Mina,” Chan starts up a new conversation as he sips on his beer watching everyone play a game of cards.

Her legs were tangled with Hyunjin’s and her hands were all over him. Yuck.

“What do you do for a living?” Chan asks making everyone turn their focus on her.

“Oh I’m currently in retail,” she says smiling. “What about you Chan, what exactly do you do for the group?”

Everyone goes quiet as if she had just shoved a knife in all our guts and stepped on our necks. How could she not know how big Chan was in the group? Pathetic in my opinion.

“Oh, well…”

“He is the janitor!” I shout out making the boys all burst out in laughter including Chan.

“Yeah I’m the janitor,” Mina looks at all of us confused and lets out a chuckle trying not to look confused.

“No but actually I’m the leader of the group, I’m surprised you didn’t know..”

“Oh well I don’t really listen to music that much and the only reason I found out about you guys was when I met Hyunjin.”

My smile disappears and I take a sip of my drink. I knew I was tipsy and soon falling into the drunk category.

“How did you guys meet by the way?” Felix interrupts the conversation.

“Uhh Babe, do you wanna tell the story?” She smiles of at Hyunjin who kisses her on the cheek. I shift in my chair uncomfortably and look away. I.N giving me encouraging looks now and again trying to make sure I’m okay.

“Yeah sure, basically this was when me and Y/nie were at the movies! I had gone to buy us more drinks and I had bumped into her. I thought she was pretty really-“

“And I thought he was the most beautiful man on earth,” that makes Hyunjin blush.

“And I had offered to buy her a drink to make it up to her. Now here we are thanks to Y/nie!” He looks at me and smiles.

“I-I think I’m going to go get another drink.” I slur getting up and stumbling into the kitchen.

Everyone gives Hyunjin a confused look but he also gets up leaving Mina on the couch to talk to the boys who really seemed like they didn’t want to be there.

My hands shake as I grab another beer. Sweat running down my face as regret starts to churn in my stomach.

My chest starts to ache but it was worse than before. The hot tears start to slide down my cheek. The tears I was trying to hold in the whole evening as I watched my Hyunjin touch on Mina. My Hyunjin laughing with her. My hyu-

“Hey..You okay?” My trail of thought is interrupted by a soft voice. The voice I wasn’t ready to hear yet. How long did I have to pretend not to love him the way I do? God.

“Yeah totally fine,” I find my hands wiping the tears that were falling and quickly turn with a big plastic smile. His frown telling me it wasn’t convincing at all.

He stood by the door. His hair up in a bun and his reading glasses on. The same reading glasses I helped pick out for him.

He was wearing his normal black sweatpants with a large sweatshirt. His hand filled with rings and my hair tie wrapped around his wrist. He looked like the Angel he was but with a pout and a worried look.

“Y/nie, if there something wrong you can tell me you know? I’m your best-friend. Why are you crying? Is it Mina? Is she not good for me? Do you not like her?”

Yes she isn’t good for you, I am you dimwit! I silently curse to myself.

His eyes go soft as he walks towards me. His body towering over me. Trying to read me like the open book I am when it came to him.

Hyunjin could read me in an out no doubt. He loved that about me, like he said. He even once said that if him and the boys had a competition on “who knows y/n the best” he would win with his eyes closed. Might sound cringe but I find it cute. Which made my heart flutter and the butterflies in my stomach grow even more but why did I want to throw them out now? Why did I want to kill the butterflies and mute my heart? Was this how heartbreak felt like?

“Just a stressful day at work Jinnie, I’m about to go out for a smock, wanna join?” I blurt out and move from underneath him. His hand automatically wrapping around my waist to stop me from moving.

“A smock? I thought you quit it? I told you it wasn’t good for you? It puts chemicals in your body, baby, we agreed you’d stop or you going to die.”

Baby? I couldn’t help but scoff at this. Baby? Really? What was he trying to do with me? Am I some type of rebound that he tried to keep under his wing?

Not noticing the tears that had fell his hands slowly wipe them away, “Hey hey, Y/n your crying again. Please tell me what’s wrong? It’s worrying me.” My vision blurry as I let out sobs. The pain now turning into anger. How dare he? How dare he make me feel like this?!

“Hyunjin I don’t need you to babysit me okay? You’re clearly so busy with your life to care about me. So let me do what I want.” My body rips out of his grip as I watch his eyes go wide as he looks confused. His expression turning into hurt and disbelief. I refused to argue with him. I refused to get hurt. I refused to let my stupid feelings get in between him and Mina. I grab my bottle and rush out the kitchen trying to get away from the situation but he starts to follow me.

“Y/nie, I’m talking to you.” He says as his steps quicken behind me.

“I’m done talking to you.” I simply reply as I make my way through the living room.

“Guys what’s going on-“

“Not right now!” We both snap at Han who’s taken back by our harsh tone.

Everyone in the room goes silent and even Mina knew not to interrupt our little argument.

“Hyunjin just leave me alone.” I exclaim as I speed walk up the stairs. Leaving everyone confused. The hot tears were now rolling non stop.

“Not until you tell me what’s wrong with you! You never smock unless there’s something bothering you!” He yells back.

The corridors lead me into Hyunjin’s room, my heart now beating in my neck as I try to slam the door in his face my his strength stops the door from shutting.

We were both now stood in his room and he had slammed the door shut. My sobs get loud as I stare at him. His arms crossed.

Me and him were both petty, that’s why we got along so well sometimes. If he did something I’d do something 10x worse then he would add on to that. It wasn’t the best thing when me and him argued, the whole house would flip upside down. Chan’s still traumatized from the last fight where I had thrown Hyunjin’s stool at him.

“Now you’re not leaving this room until you talk to me Y/n!”

I glare at him and walk to his balcony pulling out the pack of cigarettes.

“Y/n no!” He growls and grabs it out of my hand.

“Hyunjin!” I yell at him. But he doesn’t flinch or move. He looks me dead in the eyes before throwing them off the balcony.

“Why are you like this? Why do you have so much control over my life?”

“What do you mean Y/n?! I don’t control-“

The saying ‘think before you act’ did not apply to the shit I was about to say but instead ‘drunk words are sober thoughts’ was the biggest cause of all the shit that was about to come out my mouth.

“Yes you do Hyunjin! Why did I have to fall for you! You and your stupid brown eyes! Your stupid long beautiful locs! Your stupid pink soft lips! Why do you have to control me like this!” I scream at him, finding my self punching his chest. He stands there taking it in, listening to the words leaving my mouth at this moment. He knew I was drunk, but he didn’t know I was this drunk.

My body finally starts to give out. His hand quickly holding me before I fall to the ground.

“Shhh, princess, I’ve got you. Calm down just breathe. I’m right here. Can we go inside?” I nod my head and he slowly leads me into the room where he sits on the bed and pulls me to cuddle right beside him.

“Your okay. Okay? Just breathe. I’m here. No need to panic, I’m right here.” He rubs my back and intertwines our fingers.

“Hyunjin stop doing this to me. Please. I can’t keep holding onto this hope that someday we’ll be together.” I say softly. Removing myself from his touch.

“Y/n, look at me please.” His hand softly touching my face. He searches for my eyes as my body trembled against his. His other hand rubbing circles in my palm. He deeply sighs.

“Y/n I love you too but we can’t be together,” his voice trembles.

That’s when I hear my heart shatter into millions of pieces. I’m in my head, the thoughts run faster and faster that I don’t notice the tears in his eyes and a pair of extra eyes watching us behind the scenes

**

Ew kill me 😒 hope you enjoyed the story lol.

[frozenjokes]

The Death Maze (With The Puzzles And Autistic People)

Given the remote location Tango had set up a base for this operation, no one really expected visitors. Especially not during the day; not that it would be much different than at night, but there was just something disarming about eating lunch with the dungeon master and the guy who refused to leave the dungeon; literally refused- Etho had started buying groceries. Tango didn’t buy the right bread apparently, and yes, it was a big deal, Etho couldn’t make his sandwich if he didn’t have the right bread, Tango, and if you won’t do it right I’ll do it myself!

Jimmy didn’t have much skin in the game. He was just happy to get a free lunch out of the deal, really. It was a good sandwich.

But again, visitors were a surprise. Honestly, Tango hadn’t even caused enough of a ruckus for police to show up yet; Jimmy was pretty sure he hadn’t even gotten on the news. If Jimmy thought too much about that he might start spiraling about the miserable state of the world, however, someone had to get the door; Tango looked busy with something on his phone, and Etho didn’t look like he was moving any time soon.

The entrance to the dungeon castle was a grand, sprawling thing, the door just as imposing, but opening the whole gate was quite the hassle, so Jimmy stuck with the smaller cutout instead, which the three of them used for casual comings and goings. Still heavy, but far more manageable.

Now, Jimmy didn’t have any sort of expectation here; the doorbell ringing hadn’t been insistent or aggressive or anything, but he wasn’t expecting just.. a guy. Just standing there. Quite a normal looking guy too, hardly remarkable at all in a world of superheroes at least. Was he human? He looked human. What was a human doing here of all places? Did he think this was some kind of tourist attraction? How did he even find this place?

“Hello,” the man said, cordial, almost professional; he had this cold neutrality to him that felt akin to an inspector of sorts, and just by looking at the outside of the building, the stranger could tell Decked Out was not up to code. The quiet confidence alone made Jimmy quite nervous, though the stranger took his time speaking as he observed the intricate decoration, only serving to worsen Jimmy’s anxiety. “Is this where I can find the maze? The death maze, the one with the puzzles and autistic people.

“Uh,” Jimmy felt his mouth drop open, entirely unsure how to respond. Was this guy some kind of superhero? He didn’t look like a superhero. Jimmy wasn’t sure he’d ever seen someone who looked so normal- goodness, surely he didn’t want to run the game! Jimmy wasn’t sure if Tango could handle another Etho. Not to mention, this guy didn’t look to be the athletic sort.. if he was a civilian, he’d probably get hurt. Not that either of those things ever stopped Etho. “Yes, but-“

“Oh, great,” the stranger ducked through the door, Jimmy startling as he invited himself inside, “I’ve decided I need some new friends, and this seemed like a golden opportunity. Not that I’m used to going out of my way, but I’ve come to realize I can’t just stagnate forever. It’s time to take some initiative, or something. I dunno. I like puzzles.” He stopped, taking a moment before clearing his throat, “You know HotGuy, right? Do me a huge favor and don’t tell him I was here.”

“You.. know HotGuy.”

“I know him.” The man started walking, and Jimmy was helpless to do anything except follow.

“He told you about Decked Out?”

“Told me all about it. Didn’t know the name though, just about the whole fiasco..” he trailed off with a vague gesture, “Seems like they didn’t play the game right, but it sounded interesting.”

“And he doesn’t want you here?”

“I mean, I imagine he wouldn’t.”

“How did you find us then?”

“Oh, I just asked for the address. Said I was curious, you know, since I thought more people would have heard of it by now. It’s pretty out of the way, but I took a few days off work.”

“And-“ Jimmy couldn’t help his own stunted speech, more and more baffled by the minute, “He didn’t-? What? Who are you?”

“Oh, I’m Cub. Sorry. Should have said so,” Cub continued on with the confidence of someone who’d been here a thousand times, walking entirely in the wrong direction, though that didn’t seem to bother him one bit. His eyes were on the ceilings and the walls, curious.

“No- I mean, a superhero. Are you working with heroes?”

“Technically, yes, if retail is what you mean. But I’m not on the streets, no, that’s not my jam. You’re Jimmy, right? The avian. There’s a blaze born here too, right? He’s called Tango? HotGuy told me he was unpleasant and a little pathetic, but I think HotGuy and a friend fall under the same description, so I thought this might work out.

“You mean Tango? Wait a minute-“ Jimmy hopped forward with a couple awkward flaps of his wings to block Cub’s path, though his expression didn’t change, considering Jimmy evenly, “If you’re just a civilian, you shouldn’t be here. Seriously, you could really get hurt. Tango isn’t the pinnacle of morality or anything, so you’ll probably get thrown in Decked Out if he finds you here.”

“Oh! I would like to do that. Where can I find Tango?”

“Jimmy?” Tango’s call lit the hall, confusion clear as it bounced off the walls, “Is everything alright? Who was it? Anyone seeking revenge? Where’d you go?” Jimmy didn’t get to speak before Tango’s round eyes turned their way, hair and arms sparking in his surprise. “Who’s this?”

“Uh-“

Cub turned before Jimmy could come up with an excuse, the first sign of excitement showing on his face as he spoke, “You must be Tango. I’m Cub, great to meet you. I’d like to try your maze? Is it open?”

“Decked Out? You want to play?” Tango lit up, figuratively and literally, “Jimmy, who is this guy?”

“Not a superhero, Tango-“

“I was referred by a friend,” Cub slipped the words behind Jimmy’s, happily walking toward Tango.

“You were not referred! Tango, HotGuy is going to come looking for this guy, you don’t want that, do you?”

Tango blanched before his face flushed, head and arms sparking to life wilder than they had before. “HotGuy!? No! Get this guy out of here!”

Cub shot Jimmy a withering glare, but any hint of concern melted away when he closed his eyes, turning back to Tango with a practiced neutrality, “HotGuy does what I tell him. I’m not missing, and he’s not looking for me. You have nothing to worry about.”

Tango stomped his foot, flame flying from the soles, “He broke my game!”

Cub shrugged, “I’m only human. Couldn’t break anything if I tried. I just want to play. Get to know the people here, that’s all.”

“Are you a cop?”

That shut him up, the silence deep and incriminating.

Finally, Cub huffed, “No. Fine. Whatever.” He stopped in his tracks, swiveling back toward the exit, and just- just- leaving? He genuinely looked kind of upset, though Jimmy was too baffled by the sudden exit to say much else.

Jimmy.. didn’t get the sense he was a cop, even despite the odd retreat; too weird in the wrong ways, too blunt. HotGuy never liked law enforcement either; whenever he and Jimmy sat down to chat, the topic came up at least once, always to complain about incompetence or corruption or otherwise (not that the superhero business was any better, but Jimmy wasn’t about to say that to HotGuy’s face). It’d feel like an odd turnaround. Tango was similarly confused, but not nearly as bothered, only shrugging once the stranger disappeared through the front door.

“Take care of that, will you?”

Jimmy blinked, turning, “What? Take care of what?”

“Make sure he’s gone,” Tango said, the look on his face pleading, counteracting the facade of authority he attempted to push into his tone.

Jimmy scoffed, waving him off with a smile, “I don’t think that’s in my job description.”

“Please? Please?” Tango stood on his tiptoes, and while Jimmy knew the fire off Tango’s arms wouldn’t hurt him, he still flinched away on instinct, masking the gesture with a scoff. Somehow, this only made Tango more desperate. “We’re friends, aren’t we? You’ll make the bad cop go away, won’t you?”

“I don’t think he’s a cop. If he’s a friend of HotGuy, he’s probably just a bit off his rocker.”

Tango snorted, “Aren’t you a friend of HotGuy? You told me you had lunch plans on Sunday!”

“Yeah, I guess so. And I get kidnapped for a living, so while I’m flattered, your opinion of me might be a bit warped. What, do you also think Etho is normal?”

Tango’s flames burst upward for a moment, flecks of fire spiraling off in small wisps, “Etho’s a total freak, not like you. Have you heard him talk about sandwiches? Normal people don’t have that many opinions about sandwiches. You’re great, and my friend, so you’re gonna tell that stranger to get off my lawn for me, yeah? Yeah? Please?”

“Fine.” Jimmy made a scene of his distaste with a loud sigh, but he didn’t really mind all that much, only pushing back for the sake of it. He wasn’t a connoisseur of confrontation or anything, but Cub had left in a huff, so Jimmy really didn’t expect him to be sticking around.

This turned out to be an incorrect assumption.

Jimmy approached the unfamiliar car outside cautiously, though it wasn’t running, Jimmy only able to see the top of Cub’s head as he was hunched over in the driver’s seat. He wasn’t entirely sure what to do or say; he tried to wave and get the stranger’s attention from afar, but Cub’s forehead was firmly plastered to the steering wheel, eyebrows furrowed and miserable looking. Jimmy wondered if he should leave? He didn’t really want to be here, friend of Tango’s or not; technically they weren’t even friends, Jimmy was just here out of contractual obligation. Still, Jimmy liked to keep a good relationship with his clients. Villains were the volatile sort, he knew that well. Doing a little favor like this wasn’t too much trouble, and Tango seemed like the kind of guy that would remember it.

Jimmy took a deep breath, but didn’t quite have the nerve to speak, so he approached the car instead, gently knocking on the window.

Cub startled, the car horn honking as he hit his head before jumping up. The surprise didn’t last long though, his frown returning deeper than before. He stared at Jimmy for a long time, eyes shrewd behind his glasses, then abruptly, let his head hit the steering wheel again, uncaring. Well. Guess Jimmy was going to have to be the one to talk first. Not that Cub rolled the window down. He knocked again for good measure, but Cub made no move to acknowledge him.

“Uh, sir, this is private property? You can’t be here. Please leave,” Jimmy tried to raise some authority into his tone, though this was a talent both he and Tango lacked. Cub was unfazed.

The stranger grunted, though the sound was muffled through the window, “What are you going to do? Call the cops? Throw me in your maze?” Jimmy hesitated for far too long and Cub huffed, not moving. Well this wouldn’t do. Surely this guy wasn’t just going to sit here forever, but still, Jimmy didn’t exactly want to go back inside while he was still around.

“Listen, I’m sorry this didn’t go your way today, but you really shouldn’t be here. I don’t know what you heard about Decked Out, but beyond the safety issue, I don’t think you have the right idea about the game. There’s no puzzles, not really, and honestly it’s not about being a maze, either. I’m sure HotGuy only got that impression because it was his first time down there, half of which he spent getting dragged around upside down by ravagers. There’s strategy, sure, but again, ravagers. You’re just a human, right? You could get really hurt. I’ve been hurt.”

“Doesn’t matter,” Cub mumbled, the words so obscured that Jimmy barely heard them, “This was really dumb. This was really stupid, coming here, I don’t even know what I thought I.. I don’t know. My head got the better of me. I’ll leave, I’ll go soon, I just need a minute to stew.”

Jimmy pursed his lips.

“Oh. Okay. Thanks, then.” Jimmy cursed inwardly for sounding so stupid, then frowned, biting his lip. This was taken care of. He should just go, watch from the doorstep, and make sure Cub left like he said he would. Jimmy sure would like to walk away, but his damn bleeding heart was keeping him rooted on the concrete, making note of how sad and defeated the poor man in the car looked, and before he could stop himself, he was already speaking, “I understand. Take all the time you need, but if you want to talk.. I mean, I’m not on the clock or anything. Why’d you trek all the way out here?”

…

Grian’s head snapped up when he heard the front door click unlocked, not that he was waiting for anyone or anything, but he certainly hadn’t been wearing headphones since Cub texted that he was on his way home. Which. Probably not necessary, given it had been six hours since then, but hey.

“I’m home,” Cub announced himself, and Grian heard the keys of the car he’d rented for his ‘getaway’ click into the keybowl by the front door. Grian nearly fell out of bed as he made for the common area, but forced a deep breath before exiting his room. Calm. Collected. Normal. All of that went out the window when Grian opened his door and spotted the bright pink cast across Cub’s left arm.

“Cub? What happened? You’re hurt, why didn’t you call me? Were you in the hospital? You didn’t say anything! Is it broken? You didn’t call me-“

“Hush,” Cub waved him off, though the effect was lost a little with the stiffness of his cast, “I had a great getaway, thank you for asking.”

“You broke your arm!”

“Of my own volition.”

“What-“ Grian sputtered, “What does that mean!?” For the first time, Grian’s eyes were drawn elsewhere besides just the cast. Cub’s chin, which looked bruised, the way he was favoring one leg when he usually shifted his weight idly; it wasn’t odd for Cub to wear baggy clothes either, but Grian was starting to feel like the decision for today was deliberate.

“It’s a secret,” Cub said the words so simply, so casually that Grian almost missed them. Cub looked more than content to leave it at that, walking with some urgency toward his room, and he was definitely limping-

“Cub!” Grian reached to grab his arm, block his way, anything, but Cub was stubbornly determined to push by.

“I made some new friends,” he said, and if that was meant to be an explanation, it was terrifying. But he sounded happy, didn’t he? Maybe Grian hesitated then, and Cub took full advantage, stepping quickly by and slipping into his room, the door shutting and clicking locked behind him. Grian squawked, having half a mind to pummel the door with his fists and demand and explanation, but.. Well. When Cub wanted to hide something, he didn’t give easily. Half the time, he didn’t give at all.

Grian stomped his foot, if for no other reason than the energy needed somewhere to go. Cub could be so infuriating sometimes. Grian should have known something was off when Cub announced an impromptu solo vacation! Cub never wanted to go anywhere!

Grian was so telling Scar on him..

[cherr-22]

TNGDH 39

“Why so? It’s a long distance to the palace, making it a difficult trip for Cashew to follow.”

Kyle looked at me in surprise. Receiving that gaze, I let the words flow out of my mouth like flowing water.

“How hard could it be to take along a little chestnut…… no, a demonic beast? You could take it to the famous demonic beast specialist at the imperial palace for a checkup and feed it delicious food. Besides, I bet you’d be worried about leaving Cashew alone for days.”

“Hmm.”

“However, you absolutely cannot inject mana into it! Only a regular checkup is allowed. Besides, you were going to have Cashew checked by the specialist there at least once, right?”

Kyle pondered for a while before nodding.

After spending some time together, I could now guess what he’s thinking about just by looking at his face.

Right now, he was thinking about what kind of cage to carry Cashew in, what cushion to bring along, and what snacks he should take. Seeing the tips of his lips and his eyes subtly softening, that was probably what he was thinking.

‘You like it this much, yet you didn’t think about taking it along.’

I smiled and nodded in satisfaction.

Thus, both Cashew and Shu could ride the carriage to the palace. However, there was one problem. Going to the palace didn’t take just an hour or two.

‘System. Open the store for me.’

A blue system window flickered in response to my words.

In front of me were delicious and pretty-looking items spread out. I’ve thought about it before, but the more I used my hearts and Miracle Points, the more flashy the store became.

‘You’ve also worked hard.’

Whenever I saw the system staying up all night to update the store, it reminded me of myself when I was making the game. It made me a little sad.

Developers tend to be more familiar with the night than the day, but that kind of life is very stressful. People need light to live. At that time, I almost believed that even mold might start growing on my body.

But as it happened, I ended up possessing a nocturnal animal. It made me think life really didn’t like me.

I away my thoughts and turned the pages of the store. At first, there were only one or two pages but now there were four pages.

Let’s see. I have to refrain from using too many Miracle Points, but since the system made these for me, I’ll at least take a look at them.

‘Oh. This looks delicious. This one too.’

There were all kinds of desserts made with nuts. I lived the majority of my life eating soup and hamburgers, so I couldn’t help but keep looking at the desserts decorated so beautifully.

Don’t they say that food that looks good also tastes good? Of course, the cookies and bread Kyle prepared were great, but don’t you sometimes wish to have desserts that are pretty……

‘Wait. Is that why you made these like this?’

As I narrowed my eyes, the system responded.

[⚆_⚆]

It’s fine, whatever.

It’s not like I’m going to buy them based on their appearance anyways.

Then, an item caught my eye. It must’ve come from the update since there was a big label [NEW!] on it.

NEW! [Emergency Toffee Nut Candy x5 ｜ Miracle Points 0.5% consumption ｜ Detect approaching beings while holding the candy in your mouth.]

It was an amazing item that gave you 5 candies just for 0.5 Miracle Points. Its effect was amazing so buying it ahead of time would be useful.

I bought it without thinking twice. The small, individually wrapped candies looked like they would taste like caramel.

I wanted to try one now but I held in my urge.

“Are you done?”

“Yes?”

“You were pointing your finger in the air.”

“…….”

I kept my mouth shut.

Luckily, Kyle didn’t ask me for an explanation. Perhaps because he’s used to seeing me do a lot of strange things…… though I don’t know if this is fortunate or unfortunate.

“I will prepare your clothes in the same size as before.”

“You’re preparing my clothes too? You don’t have to.”

“Your attire will affect how people see you in the imperial palace. The ones at the North are not good enough.”

Kyle’s voice was soft, but I knew that I had to take it seriously.

I knew It. I knew it more than anyone else. This was something Kyle experienced himself in the past, and this was the attitude of the nobles of the imperial palace towards those from the North.

I’ve also been treated like that before in my previous life. I guess growing older won’t always make you mature.

I scratched the back of my head and nodded. This wasn’t a hard request from Kyle anyways. Thinking about it, this was also something that could affect Kyle’s reputation.

“Then, I’ll leave it to you.”

“Alright.”

Two weeks until Sen and Belial’s engagement ceremony.

There was plenty of time to prepare.

*

“Put this over there, ah, that one goes there.”

“How long has it been since we’ve went to the palace?”

“Definitely been at least a year!”

“Hold the reins well. And inspect the carriage again!”

From early in the morning, the Blake castle was like a marketplace. Even I, who rarely woke up from my sleep to most noises, had my eyes wide open.

I gazed at the sunlight seeping through the curtains. Seeing that it was still a little dark, it must’ve been around six o’clock.

―Squeak squeak. (It’s today.)

I stretched and reached for the strawberry sweater I tucked away in the corner of my hut. I then put on the sweater, regardless of my own feelings about it.

Because my limbs were short, I was only able to put it on after rolling in the sawdust a few times. But thinking about it again, Kyle got my measurements accurately.

―Squeak……. (Sigh. This is my life as a hamster.)

I pat off the sawdust stuck on the sweater and used ‘Summon’ after checking the door.

It seemed that it would be a while before Kyle comes to get me. Well, it wouldn’t take much effort to put me in the hamster cage anyways.

‘Let’s see…….’

I hid myself in a corner and used ‘Summon’.

I closed my eyes from the bright light and when I opened them, I was in a familiar room. On top of the bed were the clothes Kyle prepared for me.

I took off the sweater and stored it in the inventory before changing into the new clothes.

The high-quality silk gently wrapped around my body and flowed down elegantly. There were no extravagant accessories, but it definitely had a luxurious feel. Even the golden embroidery didn’t feel like it was made in vain.

‘The pants also fit me well.’

As I was examining my appearance in front of the mirror, I raised my eyebrows at a sudden thought.

“……How does he know my size?”

It was really mysterious. It wasn’t as if he measured me while I was asleep, nor did he ever asked me.

A knock came from the door.

I turned towards the door to open it. Outside was a familiar servant, unable to hide his excited face.

“His Highness Kyle asked me to bring the demonic beast specialist over to him.”

“Ah. Thank you for coming to get me. However, there is somewhere I want to visit first.”

“Yes?”

I led the curious servant towards into the study. I unfolded a black cloth I had prepared and covered the hamster house with it.

From now on, I must keep this hamster house with me no matter what. At least half a day, I must keep it with me.

“Let’s go.”

The servant, who had been examining my actions, tilted his head in confusion, but hurriedly moved on.

As I followed him, I checked the number of Miracle Points I had. After buying two cookies and some candies yesterday, I had exactly 20 percent left.

After complaining to the system all day long to lower the prices, I was able to save quite a few points.

[(￣へ￣)]

Hey. Do you think I’m saving money for my own benefit?

……Well technically I am.

“You can get on this carriage.”

The servant who took me outside bowed his head and walked away at a slow pace. His steps were so light that it almost seemed as if he were skipping. No, he probably was, seeing how happy he looked. He must also be taking the carriage to the palace.

Well, I did hear that it has been 1 year since they were able to go on a trip to the imperial palace. It was definitely a joyous event. It was said that the climate and atmosphere of the palace were the opposite of the North, making it feel like it was a foreign country. Of course, I heard this from Kyle.

“Shu.”

“Oh my gosh!”

I jumped in place.

Turning my head, I saw Kyle standing with a cape in his arms.

“Make some noise as you move around, please!”

“I didn’t know you could jump so high.”

“Ah! Really! Don’t scare me like that.”

As I grumbled at him, Kyle wrapped the cloak around my shoulders and chuckled.

“I did call for you, but I thought I’d have to circle around the castle a few times to find you. Were you in your room?”

“Of course. And you even prepared my clothes. Ah. I also brought Cashew with me, so there’s no need to go to the study.”

I pointed at the hamster house with my chin and held the cloth tighter. I’ll never open it. Don’t even think about removing the cloth.

“Thank you. Now, I’ll take it with me.”

Kyle held out his hand. I avoided the hand and twirled my body away from him.

“No. I could take care of it plenty well. It’s not like you’re going to play with Cashew on the way, so you can just leave it to me and focus on your work.”

“Then, let me see its face at least once…….”

“Ahem! Do you not see the time? Don’t disturb its sleep! Even demonic beasts have a routine.”

I quickly got into the carriage before Kyle could push on anymore. I sat down and held the cage in my arms as if it were the most precious thing in the world.

Kyle entered the carriage after me and said after sitting across from me.

“I won’t take it from you so loosen up.”

“Really?”

“……Have you lived your entire life being fooled?”

I certainly have. But I couldn’t say that and just relaxed my hands and shoulders.

I’ve been tense the whole time, making my shoulders feel a little stiff. As I groaned and complained about wanting to massage them, Kyle suddenly took out a bag.

“Still, we should feed it…….”

“I will feed it! I will!”

I quickly pressed myself to the window like a magnet. I glared at him with wary eyes, and he bursted into laughter.

“……Are you enjoying yourself?”

Are you enjoying playing around with me?

He had a calm smile on his face. He tilted his head and rested his chin on his hand, which was held up against the carriage wall. 

“Being with you always makes me feel happy.”

Just then, the carriage started moving. A light breeze blew in through the window. I turned my head away with a sullen look on my face.

The tip of my ears felt a warm.

Even though the wind blowing felt cool.

--------------------------------------------------------

Previous Chapter / Next Chapter

[worldsfromhoney]

Greetings, plebeians

This is your resident unknown and attention-depraved author/writer, BEE/bee/beE/🐝

Here’s some stuff about moi:

I like… tea. YES I LIKE TEA 🍵🍵🍵 it’s quite honestly the greatest invention of all time

I also like reading. That’s kinda like a hobby that all writers are mandated to say. Which is reasonable.

I’m a fan of miniatures and piano. Yeah, I did try them out. Yeah, I did fail spectacularly, thank you! ☺️

I also like painting but the therapy one and not just a blank canvas that sucks the soul out of artists lol

What do I write?

I write… stuff. BEAUTIFUL, HEARTBREAKING STUFF, mind you. But it’s still stuff, so lemme elaborate.

Speculative fiction - if you idk this, it’s really just a mix of fantasy and sci-fi; the ‘what if’ genre

Urban fantasy - don’t get me wrong, I love high fantasy, but urban is waaay easier to worldbuild

Steampunk & other punks - PUUUUNK 🤘🤘🤘

Horror and thriller - mostly psychological and body horror, don’t worry! I don’t do jump scares or anything ☺️

Slice of life - mwah my heart and soul mwah

Others - yes, I am capable of doing other genres 😤 I’m a multi-faceted bee, you know?

DISCLAIMER: what I write might only reflect upon my psyche and state of mind but that is not a guarantee

My WiPs

I am proud to say that… I DO NOT HAVE ANY!!

*gasp* what ever do you mean bee? Are you quitting writing? *sobs*

No, my darlings.

i just have no big projects to boast about right now. I feel like big projects aint my thing at the moment and pushing myself only led me to disappear from the internet for a month 😞

What i do have are short works i randomly choose to write and post here on tumblr !!

✨ FICLET MASTERLIST IS HERE ✨

🐝 POETRY MASTERLIST IS HERE TOO 🐝

If you’re interested, please comment on this post or reblog or DM me if you want to be put in the taglist!!

Does that mean you accept… requests?

…………yes. Yes i do. Go and flood my askbox you plebs !

Am I anywhere else?

Please. It’s 2023. Of course I’m… everywhere *cue evil laugh*

Bluesky - if you haven’t heard it yet, tis the new Twitter… cuz it’s literally made by the old creators of that glorious blue bird *cue a moment of silence*

Tiktok or Twitter - do not look for me here

Tumblr - EYYYYYYYYYYY i post ALL my stuff here !! They’re really just bait to hook some writer friends 🥹

Ko-Fi - ehem ehem i know first drafts are considered shite but BUT i have decided to make them available for perusal yes you can burn your eyes to anyone who buys me a cup of tea ~

Patreon - i finally have one!! I’m still setting it up tho and prepping all the content 💛💛💛

I’ll be doing a patreon soon enough actually so look out for that

How I organise myself

Well i wish this is applicable to actual life because i’d very much like to know how 🫡

Jk, here be the tags:

#bee writes some stuff - my micros, my flash fics, my text posts

#bee plays some games - tag games !! which i have never played before till now !!

#bee does some prompts - this will definitely see the light of day… someday

#bee stalking some writers - what it says on the tin

#bee answers some asks - omg i only added this because someone actually sent me one *faints*

#bee saves some stuff - there are way too many resource posts that i’ve scrolled past cuz idk how to tag

[hottombstone]

This is a fanfiction between Doc Holiday x(Fem) reader! I might make it into a series lol!

DISCLAIMER!! The series will have smut😏

I’ve been riding my horse jack for what seems like years. The heat was stinging my lungs and having me in desperate need for water. Tombstone was just up ahead as you were relived to arrive after all the train ride before riding jack was nothin fun. As I ride into town there were men already drunk and women trying to keep their innocence from them. I hitched jack at a post closest to a trauf, he definitely needed the water more than me.

I go into the Oriental to grab myself a drink before heading to the hotel. I walk in and the immediate smell of cigars and whiskey is intoxicating. It was very crowded as I make my way to the bar. “What can I get for you miss?” The polite bar keeper said. “Just a whiskey on the rocks” I smile at him and he seems surprised that I dainty girl as myself would order something like that.

He hands me the glass and I pay him the money. I sit looking around my hat low so no one would really take notice of me. I was in a very simple black dress nothing fancy to make an impression. I hear a familiar laugh come from the poker table and I’ll be. It was your good friend Wyatt Erp! I get off the chair trying not to bump into all the drunks. I approach the table where he’s dealing. “Hello there ma’am what can I get started for ya?” I smile as I lift my head to show my face.

“Well a hug would be a good start and I’ll buy in with what I can.” He stands up and smiles big. “Y/n girl! I haven’t seen you in ages. Look at you!” He spins me around. “I can’t believe you’re in tombstone!” I grin. “Well Daddy always said I had a heart for adventure!” Wyatt laughs “He sure did!” “So you gonna deal me in or what?” He smiles and sits down. “Of course where are my manners.” He deals me in and shows me to the table.

All the men at the table don’t even look at me till I take my hat off and my beautiful long hair tumbles down showing soft waves. The two men are looking at me in a way that’s not attractive to you in any way. I hear a voice to my left “This isn’t usually a game for pretty daisys like yourself darlin.” I smirk to myself. “You’ve obviously been playin with the wrong women.” The other men laugh and I roll my eyes. “Who are you woman?” The dirty toothless man says.

I give a confident answer “I’m the Daisy who’s gonna bet you at cards.” They both laugh. I look to my left and the man raises his head to reveal his dashingly handsome face. He smirks “Let’s play then..”

“I raise..” I push my chips in. The other two men through down their cards in a fold. “That’s an awful lot a money you bettin on darlin.. I think you want to rethink your decision.” My face still straight showing no emotion. “I think I’ll take my chances..” he puts down his cards showing a flush and everybody’s in awe laughing he goes to take the pile. “Not so fast there handsome… I think my cards have a say in the matter..”

I put down my cards to show a full house. The room gets quiet. “Well..” I say to break the silence. “Thank you for the wonderful game but I best be on my way to rest.” I put my hand on the handsome man’s shoulder. “For your troubles..” I put a few chips in his hand and a kiss on the cheek. I stand up to leave.. “What’s your name darlin.?” “Y/n” “Well miss Y/n I’m Doc Holiday.” He says kissing my hand. I roll my eyes and smile “Well Mr. Holiday I’ll see you tomorrow.. but a game like that has a girl like me wore out.”

I take my hand away and give him a flirtatious look and walk out of the Oriental. I put Jack in a stable and get into my hotel room. I lock the doors and open the window for some cool air. I strip to a simple yet elegant sleep wear and close my eyes as butterflies flutter in my belly thinking of Mr. Doc Holiday…

[writerswhy]

This whole week I’ve been trying to write up a post to push my “soul society is a haunted house” agenda and unfortunately, I’ve fallen down a philosophy rabbit hole (and I don’t even like philosophy like that), but it all started with this post:

Since then I’ve asked myself:

What did I mean by “…all ghosts in SS have some amount of spiritual power (+ memory), and that the one-of few-but-most-pervasive pipeline from ghost to soul is through the propagandist nature of the Seireitei. By buying into/exposure of/being taught the self-mythos of shinigami that results in the othering and subsequent neglect/oppression of ghosts.”

And what does #1 have to do with “…Rukongai ghosts [echoing] some vestigial humanness in the land of the dead.” Aren’t shinigami closer to a living soul than a Rukongai ghost? (That’s what the Seireitei says.)

This was supposed to be a pretty straightforward post where I reference the video game Anatomy, specifically this bit from the opening monologue: 

“In the psychology of the modern civilized human being, it is difficult to overstate the significance of the house. Since as early as the Neolithic era, humankind has defined itself by its buildings.”

And from The Haunting of Hill House: 

“No live organism can continue for long to exist sanely under conditions of absolute reality. Even larks and katydids are supposed, by some, to dream. ”

The conclusion being: Soul Society is a haunted house. 

Simple. Yet…I feel like it’s missing something. A lot of the haunting in Bleach is sociopolitical and existential given the nature of souls and the power of will that’s intrinsic to Bleach. I’ve branched off and started reading papers on architecture and the soul/heart, time and the nature of memories - basically I’ve spun out of control when all I really wanted to do was circle back to point #2.

All I really want to do is circle back to this: “No live organism can continue for long to exist sanely under conditions of absolute reality.”

Because like, ostensibly we know how ghosts “live” in Soul Society. But here’s the catch, Soul Society is not meant to be a home. It’s a transient plane, a nonplace (coined by Marc Augé). When a ghost arrives they are given a number and sent to live in one of its many resource poor districts. They cannot reunite with family. They do not need to eat. They don’t even need their memories.

Here, the house rejects humanity. It sounds haunting, living under this absolute reality. But was it always like this?

Perhaps the butchering of the Soul King unleashed a blood curse so catastrophic it made Soul Society the gravity well it is today (the Soul King is the haunted house; they’re living in his body).

What if the first ghosts to arrive were masses of tissue. Through sheer will and spiritual power (“Being does not see itself. Perhaps it listens to itself.”) these ghosts start shaping their body. Like a phantom pain, their memories echo an arm here or a leg there. Some remember the beating of a heart. Others a pair of eyes. The evolution varies, from faceless ghosts like in The Haunting of Bly Manor to humanoid creatures like the Pale Man from Pan’s Labyrinth.

They could even end up as a hollow, an organism gone insane under the absolute reality of living in a dead body (it’s not the house that’s haunted, some are just predisposed to hollowfication.)

In a bid to restore and maintain balance, the Seireitei was established. And the ghosts they preferred? Ghosts that continuously referenced themselves to the point of creation, recursion in a house that rejects humanity.

They are no longer ghosts. They’re different. Their souls are different. They’re shinigami. That’s what the Seireitei says.

(And now they’re the ones doing the haunting.)

————

“Did it not occur to you that as an organism existing within a greater organism, your intrusion would be felt? And still you harass. And now, like the wayward spider who witlessly settled on a sleeper's tongue, you will be swallowed. Because the truth is this. When a house is both hungry and awake, every room becomes a mouth.”

[motifenjoyer]

akane kurashiki is (not) allocishet: an analysis

[pt: akane kurashiki is (not) allocishet: an analysis. end pt].

okay so we’ve been meaning to write this for a while but havent bc we’ve been focusing on other projects. slight disclaimer if u dont agree w this hc thats fine, just dont be a dick just bc it interferes w ur own interpretation . we all have our own ways of reading the text so. Yeah!! lets get started

so i just wanna say akane is a character i resonate with in a lot of ways, and a lot of what im going to say comes from my and others’ experiences. ur identities and experiences r def gonna affect how u view a piece of work right? 

so when i played through the series in 2023, i initially viewed akane as everyone else did: she’s in love with junpei, and even hced her as bi like most of the fandom. but the more i studied the source material, the more i felt thats not rlly the case?? esp after ztd, like im sorry but i cannot buy the idea that both junpei or akane wanna marry each other. junpei is for another day but in terms of akane i wanna talk abt the idea that she may be aromantic. 

immersing myself in the fandom, a lot of ppl’s first impressions of akane’s june persona is that she was initially gonna be this ditzy girl next door who only serves as a love interest for junpei. ofc that ended up not being the case, but i see ppl say that they only rlly cared for akane after finding out she’s zero. which imo is such a missed opportunity for analysis.

as june, akane interacts with the world through tropes. the first thing she does when we’re introduced to her is fall on junpei. and overall is seen as this nervous girl who wouldn’t harm anyone. she flirts w junpei throughout the game, yadda yadda yadda. when it comes to her identity as zero, she desperately wants a perfect ending where she can be with junpei. its guesswork as to which aspects are true of akane, but i personally see these traits as smth she thinks “kanny” would do. 

[id: screenshot from 999’s script, black text on a white background that reads:

“Junpei: Well, I dunno. Anything. I mean, you're hiding it. How would I know?

June: You mean, like...the number of men I've dated?

Junpei's heart stumbled over itself.

June: Do you want to know?

He had to admit, he was a little curious.

June: Don't worry.

She smiled at him.

June: Only 18...

!?

June: ...Times 0.

June: Yeah... I guess I just haven't met Mr. Right yet…”

“Number of men” is highlighted in green. End id].

of course, bc of her tumultuous childhood and how she didn’t have many friends, she never rlly had experience w dating. but not much suggests she would beyond her own words.

[id: screenshot from 999’s script, black text on a white background that reads:

“Kanny: You...meant a lot to me...when we were kids...

Kanny: I've liked you...for a long time, Junpei... A really...long...time..”

“Liked” is highlighted in green. End id]. 

.

[id: screenshot from 999’s script, black text on a white background that reads:

“"Okay..."

My voice shook as I answered.

It was hot in the room. It felt like my heart was on fire.

6 minutes or not, my heart burned with my feelings for him.

…”

“burned” is highlighted in green. End id]. 

but actions speak louder than words, and she doesn’t go far beyond flirting and declarations of love. in ztd, she doesn’t even make these advances even when she’s trying to lighten the mood or make things right with junpei. the only time being when she speaks with carlos in the pantry. 

[id: a log of dialogue from zero time dilemma which reads: 

akane: if it was because of me somehow… then this time i need to rush to his aid. that’s what i’ve decided anyway.

carlos: you really like junpei, don’t you?

akane: wh-what in the world are you saying, carlos?! 

carlos: i’m out of my depth when it comes to romance.

end id].

[id: a log of dialogue from zero time dilemma which reads: 

carlos: did you bake heart-shaped cookies full of love for your darling junpei?

akane: oh carlos… would you please stop teasing me… 

june is meant to be seen as the ideal japanese woman, and since performance/identity is a huge part of her character, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that she’s performing heterosexuality/amatonormativity, by extension femininity (but that’s an analysis for another day). 

akane is also slotted into the role of a mother figure for kyle just as sigma with the role of father. i can’t help but think of the scene in little shop of horrors (1986), audrey sings abt a stable and “ideal” middle class life. i remember watching it thinking it was odd, given that im aro and am not interested in settling down or emulating cishet middle class values. but my friend, who is poor just like audrey and akane, told me that it’s a common occurrence for poor ppl to think this way. to want a sense of stability even if it’s stereotypical. i feel like this applies to akane as well. i also hc her with bpd, and instability is a common symptom for us, so it makes sense for her to see junpei as a beacon of such, of normalcy. he’s rlly the only normal part of her childhood. she wants him to fix her lol . 

[id: screenshot from virtue’s last reward which reads: 

“i pleaded with her to leave, but she quietly shook her head. there was someone very special to her, she told me. he had saved her life once, and she felt her death would help to repay that favor.” end id].

and while we do see oldkane/vlrkane reminisce abt her life w junpei thru kyle, the passcode being jumpydolls, i feel like thats less abt love and more abt the fact that shes lonely, which a lot of ppl mistake that like. love can fix that.. when it rlly cant. not to mention what i said earlier

akane and junpei rarely make physical contact beyond junpei holding her in his arms and hugging. you can of course be a couple and not be that physically affectionate, but junpei is the only one initiating this. also like?? not even an “i love you” when you haven’t seen each other in nine years???????

[id: cg from nine hours nine persons nine doors. junpei holds akane’s shoulder with a worried expression. Akane has her eyes closed. End id].

[id: screenshot of zero time dilemma. junpei hugs akane near the basketball court in the lounge. akane wears a wedding ring on her right hand. end id].

[id: screenshot from zero time dilemma. junpei holds a ring in his right hand. white text on the bottom reads, “well, remember back in elementary school your dream was to wear a ring?” end id].

this is actually a common experience for aros who dont realize aromanticism is even an option. i remember when i was a kid, i’d have daydreams of getting married and dating ppl but when the opportunity actually came, i was uncomfortable and rejected it. 

i feel like junpei’s proposal and akane’s acceptance were reckless of both of them, and probably not even signs of true feelings. junpei’s arc is abt regaining agency, and akane’s is abt control (hashtag cinematic parallels), so it makes sense this would happen. both wish they could return to their childhoods, hence their emotionally immature attitudes + tendency to reminisce abt the past (junpei is counterphobic to this though and eventually gets over it in vlr’s timeline, though akane continues to act this way going forward). poor decision making is a sign of trauma after all. 

i mentioned how akane (and junpei but again. Another story for another day) subverts gendered expectations w her personality. aro ppl (as well as lesbians if u wanna go for a lesbian akane reading) tend to feel disconnected from their agab bc yk we arent straight and like a cishet woman liking a man is a sign of womanhood according to Society............ so like what if ur a girl who likes girls? or doesnt like anyone??? what does that make u??? (again, this could either be a trans reading or a lesbian reading)

anyway my point is. i think its more interesting to read akane’s interest in junpei as her wanting stability and a normal life, esp given that she is traumatized and was once poor. i feel like fluffy junepei fanworks make their dynamic very one-note and lack what makes their dynamic intriguing. but hey!! thats just my opinion as an aro person and how i prefer to interpret it 

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Ikemen Villains - Part 1

These translations are not intended as a replacement for the game. Please support CYBIRD by buying their stories. Spoilers under the cut. Expect mistakes.

What is happiness?

It’s like the twilight sky that changes color as soon as it’s imprinted in your eyes.

It holds your heart forever, yet you can never have the same thing again.

(Yeah, I really don’t know what I’m doing. I need to get my shit together.)

Today, Victor invited me for some tea.

I thought he was going to end the day peacefully with a chat and laughter, but he eventually dropped one heck of a bomb.

------------Flashback------------

Victor: Oh, right. Regarding your first job as a fairy tale writer.

Kate: Yes, what is it?

Victor: I want you to choose one of the crown members and spend time with him as your lover.

Kate: Pardon?

(L-Lover?)

Kate: H-Hold on, even if you ask me to choose, I still don’t know anything about一

Victor: That’s right, Miss Kate!

Victor: I’ve been up all night trying to figure out how to get you to know them better, and I finally came up with this idea.

Victor: Well, what can I say? I’m a genius! It’s already late, so you better start tomorrow. I’m so excited.

---------Flashback Ends---------

(I ended up agreeing, though, thinking that if I didn’t get their trust in my first job, they would kill me.)

(But getting to know each other deeply as lovers? How can I even handle such a ridiculous job?)

(I almost got run over by a carriage just thinking about it.)

I looked down at my sprained ankle, trying to avoid the speeding carriage, and sighed.

(There’s no point in dwelling on it.)

(First, l need to talk to Roger and get him to lend me some bandages.)

As I was dragging my feet to the stairs leading to the entrance...

Ellis: What happened to your foot?

Kate: Whoa! Huh? Ellis?

Ellis: Does it hurt?

My heart skipped a beat when Ellis popped up, probably on his way home from somewhere.

Ellis: Did you hurt yourself?

That fateful night, Ellis was the very person who asked if he could kill me, but I managed to survive by becoming a fairy tale writer.

(Shortly after that, he proposed to make me happy.)

I couldn’t help but feel an unspeakable unease.

Ellis: Let me patch you up. Put your arm around my shoulder and hold on.

Kate: Kyaah!?

When he saw my swollen foot, he lightly lifted me into his arms without hesitation.

Kate: I-I’m fine! I can walk!

Ellis: We need to check it properly. Roger’s not at the castle tonight, so I’ll take a look at it.

He ran to the basement, ignoring my resistance.

(He’s used to it.)

He deftly bandaged my sprained ankle.

I was a little embarrassed when he exposed my bare feet, but he was very serious and did only what was necessary to patch me up.

Ellis: How did you get hurt?

Kate: I was spacing out, thinking, when I accidentally twisted myself avoiding the carriage.

Ellis: Carriage, huh? What are you thinking about?

(I don't know if I should tell him, but maybe he can give me some advice.)

Kate: Victor told me that my first job is to spend a day tomorrow with someone from the Crown as a lover.

Kate: With my foot like this, I think it'd be best if I don't move around too much so that I don't cause any trouble.

Kate: Ellis, do you know someone who might agree?

He finished fastening the end of the bandage and stared at me, then spoke up.

Ellis: I'd like to do that.

Kate: Huh?

Ellis: I'd like to act as your lover.

(He would?)

Kate: W-Why?

Ellis: Because I want to make you happy while you're here.

He repeated the same words he had said to me that night we met.

(Why would he even want to do that to someone he'd never met before? Someone he was willing to kill?)

Ellis: I don't want you to look sad after tomorrow. No?

(I have to admit it feels kinda weird, but...)

I couldn't just ignore the carefully wrapped bandage and the worried look in his eyes.

Kate: O-Okay.

Ellis: Yay.

He laughed happily and lifted me again.

Kate: I’m fine now that you patched me up!

Ellis: Nope. I already know that you’re the kind of person who cares about other people’s problems even when you’re hurt.

Ellis: I don’t believe you’re okay, so let me walk you to your room.

Kate: That’s too much.

I tried to protest, but Ellis had no intention of letting me down, so I was forced to stay in his arms.

Ellis: For tomorrow’s plans, can you tell me what makes you happy?

Kate: Um, eating good food?

Ellis: Hmm. So, let’s buy some good food and have a picnic.

Ellis: I’ll pick you up tomorrow morning. I look forward to having you as my lover.

Kate: Sure. Likewise.

(I feel like my crazy first job just went by so fast.)

(It’s going too well. I should be more careful with him, but...)

I stared at the carefully wrapped bandages and knew that he treated them with care.

(I have a feeling I’ll be fine with him.)

Ellis: Morning, Kate.

Kate: Good morning. What’s that?

The next morning, he picked me up in my room as promised, carrying what looked like a wheelchair.

Ellis: It’s a wheelchair. It’s not easy to get it, so I made one.

Kate: You made it...? Wait, why?

Ellis: I don’t want to strain my lover’s body.

(Lover?)

Kate: Don’t tell me it’s for my sake!?

Ellis: Yeah. Hey, try sitting down.

I sat down fearfully as he urged me and found the chair was so comfortable.

When he pushed from behind, the wheels turned smoothly, and the chair moved forward.

Kate: This is so cool. You know all this useful stuff, and you can make it.

Ellis: I used to look it up and just remembered it.

Kate: Thank you. I’m happy, but you’re exaggerating. I didn’t break any bones. I can walk.

I lifted my hips to get off, but一

Ellis: I don’t want you to get worse and not be able to walk, so no.

Kate: !?

He suddenly hugged me tightly from behind the chair.

Ellis: I’ll take you wherever you want and lift you by the chair if there are stairs.

Ellis: So all you have to do today is sit here.

I couldn’t stand up or even move as he held me in his arms and whispered, confused by his gentleness.

(But maybe this is how he treats his “lover.”)

(Is it weird to ask him to stop when he’s helping me to spend time as a lover?)

Kate: Okay, thanks.

Ellis: Yeah. Since this is my first date with you, I’ll do my best to make it the happiest day of our lives.

Part 1╏Part 2╏Premium End╏Epilogue

[archiveikemen]

"Luxury Cruise Invitation*" Story Event: 95K Bonus Story

*EN Title: "A First-Class Ticket to Dangerous Seas"

Ellis Twilight

This is a fan-made translation solely for entertainment purposes with no guaranteed perfection; expect mistakes, grammatical errors, and some creative liberties. All original content and media used belongs to Cybird. Please support the game by buying their stories and playing their games. Reblogs appreciated.

Read this before interacting

Thank you to @candied-boys for providing me with the story !

Maid: Miss. Look, what a magnificent luxury cruise ship!

Docked in front of me was a luxury cruise about to embark on a wonderful journey. And yet, my heart remained clouded.

During the journey, I was to be introduced to a suitor my parents had chosen for me, and be forced to marry him.

(Making me meet him onboard a ship so that I can't escape… what bad taste.)

Poorly Dressed Young Man 1: Whee! Ellis, you got so lucky at poker that you won tickets to board the cruise.

(...?)

When I turned my head in the direction of the lively voices, I saw a group of young men gathered together and chatting away.

Poorly Dressed Young Man 2: But you were seriously out of your mind for betting your entire life’s fortune back there.

Young Man Called ‘Ellis’: … Is that so?

Young Man Called ‘Ellis’: I did that because I had nothing to lose.

Kate: …

Maid: How unpleasant… people who can’t even afford third-class tickets are allowed onboard the ship.

Maid: You must never go near them, Miss. You’re an important lady.

Crew: The luxury cruise ship Orellus will be departing soon!

A whistle sounded as soon as we boarded the ship, and it started its smooth journey over the sea.

…

And as the ship sailed, the surroundings gradually turned dark—.

(... I should go to dinner as soon as possible. My fiancé must be waiting for me.)

But however hard I tried, my heart wouldn't listen. Thus, I found myself standing at the bow of the cruise, looking out at the sea below.

(I’ve always wanted to experience being truly in love with someone.)

(I want to be loved that way too.)

And yet, that simple dream of mine was about to be crushed that night.

(I shouldn't be selfish. Everything will be alright, I just have to put up with this.)

(If I give up and accept my fate, all will be well…)

Just as I was about to toss my feelings into the depths of the pitch-dark sea,

???: … Hey.

(...?)

Someone grabbed me by the wrist and I turned around—.

???: If you stick your body out too much, you might fall into the sea and get swept away.

(Oh, it’s him.)

– Flashback Start –

Young Man Called ‘Ellis’: I did that because I had nothing to lose.

– Flashback End –

Standing there was the man I saw before boarding the cruise, I heard that his name was “Ellis”.

Kate: I’m sorry, I was too occupied by my thoughts… erm.

Ellis: Someone was looking for you.

Ellis: I think… she was a maid.

(Oh no. I must go, I kept everyone waiting.)

Kate: I have to leave. Well then—

Ellis: Are you alright?

Kate: …?

Ellis: Are you alright with this?

Kate: … Huh?

Ellis: I mean, you’re wearing an expensive dress on a luxurious ship. And yet, you don’t look very happy.

Kate: I don’t look happy?

Ellis: Yeah. Um, let me rephrase that.

Ellis: You look very sad.

Kate: … T-That’s…

I wanted to throw away those feelings into the depths of the ocean, but he found them and held them in his two hands.

(... I thought of just putting up with my situation.)

(But that doesn't mean I should…)

Ellis: …

Ellis: Hey. Want to run away with me?

Kate: Run away…?

Ellis: Yeah. If that's what you want, I’ll take you anywhere you want.

Ellis: Anywhere in the world.

Kate: … Really?

The young man named “Ellis” gave me a firm nod.

I must've been crazy to place my fate in the hands of someone I had just met. And yet, for some reason, my heart was racing.

(Even just once, if I allow myself to wish for something…)

(I…)

Kate: … Please, help me. Take me away from here.

Ellis: Leave that to me.

He held my hand, and we ran through the cruise ship.

Kate: Wait… um…

Ellis: Ellis. My name.

Kate: … Ellis.

Ellis: And your name is?

Kate: I’m Kate.

Ellis: This way, Kate.

…

We kept running and running, and hid in the ship’s cargo room.

We huddled together, sitting next to stacks of wooden boxes.

Ellis: Late at night when there are fewer people around, come to my room.

Ellis: I’m sorry that my room is only a third-class cabin, so it might not suit you.

Kate: That’s fine… but…

Kate: Why are you helping me?

Ellis: Why?

Kate: We’ve only just met, haven't we?

Ellis tilted his head in puzzlement for a moment, and then he smiled like he had found a precious treasure.

Ellis: Because of your smiling face.

Ellis: I thought that you must look so lovely when you smile… I guess?

Ellis: Is that reason… not good?

Kate: N-No…

Ellis: Fufu, that’s great.

(That’s the kind of reason why he helped me?)

However, he meant everything he said.

To prove that, my heart had been throbbing for a while.

(Is it because he helped me? Or because I’m worried about what will happen to me from this point on?)

No matter how much thought I put into it, I couldn't arrive at an answer.

(It’s the first time I’m experiencing this feeling.)

When I rested my hand on the floor, our hands touched.

Ellis: I boarded this ship with a ticket I got by chance.

Ellis: But now, I think that perhaps it was a lucky ticket.

Kate: Why do you say so?

Ellis: Because it led to me meeting you.

Our gazes met, and without another word, our lips drew closer.

— At that point in time, we still didn't know that our meeting on the ship would lead to a passionate love.

[unnaturalequilibrium]

Capítulo 7

- Mafin rewatch (Sueños de Libertad)

Fina in that green dress - she is beautiful. Damn. She also is Isidro’s daughter through and through, she too seem to have that way of getting people to open up, getting them to accept her advice and comfort. She is soft and reassuring as Claudia spills her mistakes with Tasio. And Fina’s hug looks so nice. I’m pretty sure this is what “everyone needs a bosom for a pillow” means and I agree, they do. To get lost in her embrace looks like it could solve a great many personal problems and maybe a few societal ones too. I don’t know if it’s the solution to climate change, but if 2025’s Nobel prize winners tell me it is - well I won’t be surprised. I also like that she one hundred percent share my exact opinion of Tasio, he is trash, unredeemable trash and should be avoided like the plague.

Aww, Fina arguing her case that a marriage doesn’t equal happiness and that her father shouldn’t be so quick to wish one upon her. The old man really just wants her to be happy, you can tell though that it’s a conversation that makes her ill at ease because of the way she has to stretch and stitch the truth in her replies. I already know it’s going to hurt a lot when he later on rejects her.

Marta confronting Elena - I know that it won’t officially happen for another hundred plus episodes, but Marta is the boss. The way she just slides into that armchair and takes hold of the entire office with what seems like nothing more than an innate sense of authority and a raised eyebrow - yeah, she exudes in charge. But I enjoy the little exhale at the end as Elena leaves. Like so much of who Marta is at this point this too is a game face. Maybe she carries it with what looks like ease, but it might actually come at a fairly high price, just not one we’re allowed to see yet.

Petra, I’m telling you - back off the Marta insults, or - If I remove myself from the narrative though, I love this. I love how they try to build Marta up as this stick in the mud, firm, cold and distant. Unsmiling, no sense of empathy, all business and with very little sympathy. If I hadn’t know what was to come maybe I’d buy it, maybe I’d laugh along with Petra as she mocks and says that Marta needs to smile more. Because yeah, all we’ve seen of her so far actually fits that vision of the demanding ice queen, except for these brief micro-expressions on Marta’s face when no one is looking, when she doesn’t have time to catch her true reaction. When Damian brings up marriage and children, when Elena turns her back, when Fina confronts her and tells her she demands a lot of respect. For a second you see something else, but only for a second, before it is hidden behind the wall again. So yeah, if I had watched this for the first time I would probably have thought of Marta as a bit of a bitch to approach with extreme caution.

That said, back to the narrative, fuck Petra. Fina is a fucking cinnamon roll and I ache so hard for her as this woman clearly leads her on, only to slam the door in her face and call her disgusting as wine and a win makes Fina bold enough to go for a kiss. And invertida is never a slur I’ve had to personally experience, but the way it is delivered and the way it lands makes it feel like I share its burden too. It’s a slap in the face and I wish I could reach through the computer screen and return it, with interest.

Marta’s relationship with her dad, ugh. She talks to him about being happy with being more involved in the company, getting a shot at running the business alongside her brothers. And what does Damian do? He turns the table on her and brings the conversation back to her marriage, talking about how it isn’t what he wanted for her. Granted it’s nice of him to want more than the isolation her current marriage gives her, but it’s also another dagger in Marta’s side, isn’t it? Whatever she does, or achieves, with her dad it always boils back down into her marriage, her role as a wife and the failure of it all. That shit really has to feel like someone ripping out the feathers of her wings every time she tries to take flight. It’s a nice parallel though of both Isidro and Damian wishing happiness and partnership for their daughters. I’m looking forward to when this will come full circle in 170 episodes and they discuss how their daughters have found just that, in each other.