#i'm feeling very nostalgic today for some reason

[hooned]

i was just an ordinary student a year ago. I still think about this. If a year ago, I didn't do anything, then what would i be doing now?

[anderstrevelyan]

Someone went through and left kudos on my old dragon age fics, and now...I miss my nerdy blood mage

Re-reading this bit of him and Justice in Awakening—

(Garrett is Garrett Amell, not Hawke, I set myself up for ultimate fandom confusion by giving him what I apparently decided was a family name):

Justice breaks the silence, still staring past the parapet to the woods and hills in the distance. “This body I inhabit,” he says. “Kristoff. He had heard many tales of you. He’d been looking forward to meeting you.” “Oh. That’s nice.” Maybe even the kind of admiration he’d welcome, coming from a fellow Warden. Someone who’d understand, at least in theory, what ending a Blight had really cost. “Though others among his peers were certain you are a fiction. Or an imposter, taking on the name of the one who died, though what that means I do not quite know.” Garrett shifts his weight and glances away, trying to find a way to dissuade him from doing more than brush against it. Of course, the Blight’s final price remains theoretical to him, too, as he stands here with a beating heart and breath in his lungs. He should have expected speculation, how one of their own could walk about after striking an Archdemon’s killing blow, but he’d hoped it would end with his careful dodging of Weisshaupt’s questions. That they’d chalk it up to a miracle, a mystery. He feels a quick flash of guilt alongside the relief, that he never had to face the Orlesians’ questions in person. Justice looks at him curiously—his window’s closing. “I’d rather hear about you, Justice. How are you settling in? To the world, I mean, not the job.” He seems to consider. “I have been watching in the kitchens,” he says finally. “And by the blacksmith’s, observing the process of creation in this realm. It’s strange, in all its effort. Admirable.” Garrett tries not to laugh at that image, of Justice staring stone-faced in the corner as the cooks try to ignore him. “I can’t even imagine,” he admits, “what it would be like in reverse. If I somehow found myself having to live in the Fade.”

“Yet as a mage, you understand the Fade. Am I correct?” “I’m aware of it, when I’m there in my sleep.” Garrett turns and leans his hip against the battlement so he can look into Justice’s face. “Apparently most mortals experience it more distantly, like a foggy memory they can scarcely interpret. I can control my surroundings when I’m there, a little. I can find my way around, if I don’t get lost in it. It’s nothing like what it was for you, I expect. It must be astounding, crafting whatever you will.” “A demon would find you to be the one worthy of envy—a vibrancy worth any restrictions.” “But you miss the Fade.” He pauses for a long while, to the point where Garrett thinks he’ll leave that to linger as truth. But then Justice speaks, with a quiet reluctance. “I do not know. I must go back, if I can find a way, but there is beauty in it. Making your mark in such an unchanging realm.” There is, isn’t there? Garrett thinks as he looks out at the young patches of green scattered across Ferelden’s northeast, more than there’d been just a year ago as the Blight marched its malignant path. They stand in silence for a while, the wind on their faces, Justice’s gaze straying to the same rustling grasses stretching and growing and clambering for new life.

(excerpt from this chapter)

[ddejavvu]

can I request a drabble or fic about Curtis sister getting bullied?

sigh. writing curtis!sister stuff is so nostalgic and personal to me. inside of me lives a thirteen year old girl who desperately wanted them to be my brothers. this is for little meimei <33

send me requests for the outsiders!

--

You'd been expecting Steve to pick you up from school, but there must have been a rush at the DX, because it's Two-Bit's creaky old car that chugs along the back street. That's fine too - you could use a laugh after today.

There's a certain level of teasing that you've come to expect because of your social status, but lately some of the older girls around school have made it their personal mission to go above and beyond the standard. Just today they'd begun making fun of the keychain attached to your bookbag- a mickey mouse pendant that had been a gift from Two-Bit himself. Stolen, of course, but not from just any corner store. No, that one had come from a big fancy Disney store, in a big fancy mall hours outside of Tulsa.

He'd been grossly proud of himself when he'd given it to you for your birthday, but according to those older girls, Mickey Mouse was for kids, and that made you one.

You'd tucked it safely into the front pocket of your bag, but Two-Bit notices its absence when you slide into the front seat like there's a neon sign advertising it.

"Hey, kid, where's the keychain?" He nods at your bag, "Did it break off already? Damn Disney, makin' cheap, lousy shit."

"No, it's- it didn't break." You settle into your seat, "I just- took it off."

Two-Bit's hands tighten slightly on the wheel, and he clears his throat, attempting to remain nonchalant.

"Oh. Any reason?"

You think you've hurt his feelings. He's quiet in a way that he usually isn't, and there's no trace of his signature brand of playfulness.

"It's not that I don't like it, Two." You reassure him, reaching over to brace your hand against his leg briefly. He glances at it, throwing you a smile, albeit a wounded one. "I just- I had it on my bag this morning, but then- I dunno, some girls were teasing me about it. I just wanted to avoid trouble."

You'd been attempting to relieve him of any hurt, but now he looks like he wants to hurt the girls you're talking about. He doesn't go to school very often, choosing instead to bum around at your house with a beer and a slice of cake. But you have a sinking feeling that he's going to have perfect attendance from now on, as your personal bodyguard.

"They're pickin' on you?" He asks, glancing over at you from the side of his eye as he tries keeping his focus on the road.

"It's not that bad," You lie, shrugging and reaching into your bag to put your keychain back where it belongs, displayed proudly on your zipper, "They're just high school bullies, Two. Don't worry about it. And don't- don't tell Darry. Please?"

"I don't know, kid." Two-Bit's jaw tightens, shifting as he turns a corner towards the east side of town, "I don't like this. No one should be picking on you. And not to brag, but I know how much you like that keychain. If it's bad enough for you to hide it..."

"It's not that bad, I just- I'm trying to make sure it doesn't get worse. I'm fine," You vow, but there's still a pool of dread in your gut whenever one of the girls' faces flashes in your mind.

"I'm comin' with you tomorrow to school," Two-Bit decides predictably, "And I'm gonna see it for myself, and if they're really layin' into you, I'm rallying the whole gang. Including your brothers. Let us help you, kid."

"No, please-? I don't wanna make it a big deal," You gush, "Two-Bit, everybody's stressed enough. Darry barely has any time to sleep, Soda's worryin' all day about Sandy, Ponyboy's gotta study or Darry'll be on him, just- I don't need to make things worse."

"You aren't makin' anything worse." He frowns, pulling over to the side of the road to turn towards you without the threat of crashing, "Those girls are. Listen, kid. Your brothers care about'cha. We all do. And all of us'd be happy to stick up for you. You know how much fun me 'n Steve would have rippin' into a bunch of mean girls?"

"Don't tell them yet." You insist, but you feel the sincerity of his speech, "Just- wait and see tomorrow. You'll probably scare 'em off anyways."

"I'll wear my best Mickey Mouse shirt," Two promises, his usual shit-eating grin now triumphantly returned to his face as he merges back into the road, "And by that I mean my only one- 'nless you count the old gym shirt my sister drew on."

--

You're nervous about walking back into school with the Mickey Mouse keychain hanging from your bag once more, but you're flanked by an unknowing Ponyboy on your left and a determined Two-Bit on your right, so you know no harm will come to you. Two-Bit is, in fact, wearing his Mickey shirt beneath his leather jacket, practically a dare for anyone to come and say something to him about you.

You think you're in the clear until the three girls you'd been cornered by the day before spot you, and neither Two-Bit nor Ponyboy notice their expressions, but you feel their gaze on the back of your neck. You're sure your keychain is bouncing around in plain sight from the movement of your stride, but with your two bodyguards around none of them dare to say anything.

Two-Bit drops you off at the door to your first class, raising his eyebrows knowingly but subtle enough that it slips past Ponyboy.

"'Kay. I'll meetcha here after class. Wanna sit with us for lunch, kid?"

You nod, thankful that he phrased it as an invitation so that Pony is none the wiser. In reality, you'd been planning on clinging to Two-Bit's leather jacket the entire lunch period. You're glad you have an excuse to do so, now.

You're lucky enough to have B-track classes today, which puts you in different groups than yesterday's A-track. It means that your only possible encounters with the three girls are in the hallways, but Two-Bit makes it impossible for anyone to pick on you by tailing you to each of your classes.

You think you've made it out alive- hopefully forever, by the end of the school day, and the ride home in Two-Bit's creaky little car feels miles better than it had the day before. Ponyboy's silent in the backseat, but that's usual for him, and you think nothing of it as you enjoy the ice cream that Two-Bit buys for the three of you.

It's when you're home that things really go downhill, sitting quietly around the dinner table when Ponyboy speaks for the first time all night.

"Y/N, why didn't'cha tell us you're getting picked on?" He raises the question quietly, but it's just for show- you know he's irritated, and Darry and Soda both straighten in their seats.

"What?" You feign innocence, digging your fork through the spaghetti on your plate, "What are you talkin' about, Pony?"

"These girls were talkin' about you in my history class." Ponyboy grumbles, and shit, you hadn't even considered the possibility of them sharing a class with your brother. You know he's smart for his age, that he was placed a year ahead of his grade level, but you hadn't connected the dots that they'd be in the same classes.

Darry's focus is on you now, but you know him and Soda are both still waiting for Ponyboy to continue. You avoid all three of their gazes, scrutinizing your spaghetti instead.

"They said they were planning on cornering you today. But they said since Two and I were with 'ya, they couldn't. Why didn't'cha tell us they were bothering you?"

Darry shifts forwards in his seat, more intimidating than he means to be. He's worried, you know that, but that's what you'd been trying to avoid.

"It's nothing serious, Pony." You try placating him, the whole table for that matter, "They're just mean girls. I'm handling it fine, really."

"They were talkin' about cornering you?" Darry finally speaks up, his voice unconsciously booming, "Y/N, I don't think you could've handled yourself then. Now I know you don't like makin' a scene but they could've hurt you. How many of 'em are there?"

"Three." You mumble, "Darry, I- I would've got out of it okay, really! They're real preppy, put-together girls, they probably wouldn't fight. Pro'lly just wanted to call me names or something."

"I don't want someone callin' you names, either." Soda frowns, his own plate forgotten as he focuses on you, "Did you tell a teacher about it?"

"No, it's- it's not that bad! Really, guys, you're overreacting. It's just high school drama. It sounds worse than it is."

"I don't like it." Darry decides, a note of finality in his voice that you're not happy about, "That ain't okay. And you know we'd back you up, kiddo. Pony, Johnny and Steve are there every day, and if you told Two-Bit, I'm sure he'd show up too."

"I did tell Two-Bit," You admit reluctantly, and rush to finish before your brothers get offended, "He got it out of me on the way home yesterday. That's why he came today, to make sure none of 'em got a hold of me."

"See, you do need a bodyguard," Soda reasons, leaning back in his chair, "Maybe I oughta take a day off from work. Drop you off tomorrow, give 'em the death stare or somethin'. If you want, I can have Dally tag along, that'll really scare 'em."

"No! No, don't take the day off, and- and don't show up! Especially not with Dallas," You groan, "This is why I didn't tell any of you guys. You have enough to worry about, you don't need to get involved in girl stuff."

Darry kicks your foot under the table, not hard, but reassuring, "Don't say that, kiddo. It ain't just 'girl stuff' if you're gettin' cornered at school. And we'd be more worried if you came home with a black eye. Now you let us all pick you up from school tomorrow, m'kay? Keep the boys with you, and Pony, keep an eye on those girls in class to see if they talk any more about Y/N."

"I will." Pony vows, and Soda finally relaxes, going for another bite of spaghetti at the same time that he tries speaking.

"Steve and I'll whip 'em if they act out," He promises through a mouthful of food, eliciting a sickened laugh from you, and two groans from your other brothers.

"Chew your food, Soda," Pony grimaces, and Darry elbows Soda unimpressed.

"Thanks, guys." You mumble, bashful for needing help but grateful your brothers are so willing to step into the ring for you, "It's- it's really not that bad but thank you for helping me anyways."

"Anytime, kiddo," Darry promises, a rare smile crossing his face, "Can't have the best of us gettin' beat up at school."

"Hey! The best of us?" Ponyboy glares at Darry, stabbing his spaghetti, "What happened to my big brains?"

"I dunno, I think you lost 'em when you fell from the top of the drive-in fence," You smirk at your youngest brother, still older but easiest to tease, "You hit the ground pretty hard."

Soda erupts into laughter at the memory, and Ponyboy continues his vicious assault on his dinner while Darry smothers a laugh, trying to keep the peace.

"But we mean it." Darry looks at you again, a hint of that former sternness crossing his face again, "If you need muscle, you got it. Ain't nobody gonna mess with my kid sister."

"'Specially not if Dallas shows up," Soda snickers, "Them girls'll go runnin' for the hills when they see him helpin' you in the car."

"Tell him to behave himself," You groan, "I don't need to be called into the office 'cause my brother's friend flashed a heater 'round the parking lot."

"He never behaves himself," Pony scoffs, "But if them girls are smart enough, they'll stay away from you before he has to get crazy on 'em."

"They'll stay away from you," Darry vows, and you believe him with the way the muscles in his strong arms flex as he leans forwards on the table, "Or they're gonna have to worry about somethin' worse than Dally."

[sunflowersinthedirt]

NOW AND THEN | GEORGE HARRISON 🌻

You love sunflowers and George miss you.

Angst (i’m a sad person), mentions of grief, angry issues. May have some sensitive topics to some readers.

English is not my first language and gifs are not mine.

1995: Summer.

Ringo and Paul were playing their ukuleles and conversing in the company of their respective wives. They were almost oblivious to George's presence in that vast garden. Today was a delicate day; they were finalizing the recordings for the Anthology documentary, and talking so much about John left Geo with a bittersweet (or rather, sour) taste in his mouth.

George was one of the few who didn't get to make amends with John before he passed away, and today, despite the sunny atmosphere, George was gloomy and quieter than usual. He was feeling nostalgic. He had remembered things that made him happy but at the same time, saddened him.

It was when he thought of you, looking at the sunflower garden he had planted, that the memories came flooding back. George walked over there, struggling against the feeling of sadness that seemed to take over and fill his chest. He had no idea he was being watched by Olivia and Dhani, who knew about his devotion to those flowers more than anyone. What they didn't know was the reason Geo loved sunflowers so much.

1967:

— Look, me nails and clothes are full of dirt! — Said the girl, laughing and showing her hands. — Only you'd be able to see me all dirty like this.

George laughed.

— I'm worse than you. — He said, getting up from the flowerbed and helping her up. He clapped his legs to get the excess dirt off his hands and clothes, making himself even dirtier. — And you're the prettiest girl covered in dirt I've ever seen. — He confessed, with a cheeky smile.

The girl shook her head.

— Please, love... — She laughed. — You're bein' too nice to me.

He took her in his arms. Neither of them caring that they were dirty with soil in the middle of that garden.

— You know you're gorgeous no matter what. — he said, kissin' her lips. — Thank you for helpin' me take care of this garden. And thank you for lookin' after it when I'm not around.

She smiled and felt her face warm with all the adoration and courtship from the dark-haired man.

— You know I love this garden. Takin' care of it is a way for me to ease the missin' I feel for you when you're gone. — She confessed, George's eyes staring into yours like he wanted to capture every detail of you at all once. You were, without a shadow of a doubt, the most beautiful woman George had ever seen.

You were beautiful because you were you. In your simplicity, in your little mannerisms, in the way you walked... George loved everything about you and wished he could keep you like a porcelain doll so nothin' would ever harm you.

— And I took the liberty of plantin' some sunflowers here. Don't get me wrong, I love orchids, but sunflowers will always be my favorites. — She commented. The warm wind blowing through her long hair made George pull a few strands away from her face.

— They're lovely, darling. I loved them. They made the garden more colorful. — He said. The girl smiled.

— Sunflowers are happy flowers to me. I love them. — She confessed, looking at the flowerbed. She was proud of her work. — And if I ever die, I want you to bring me sunflowers every year. Wherever I am, I'll be happy...

George's smile faded at his beloved's request. It was sudden, a happy moment turned into a melancholy mess in an instant. She was like that: very honest. Not that George wasn't aware that people could die, after all, he had already lost someone that year: his manager, Brian. He and the rest of the band were still stunned by the untimely death of someone as passionate about life as Brian.

— Y/N... — He took a deep breath, stepping away from her touch. He was tough enough not to want to cry in front of her. He didn't like thinking about the possibility of losing her one day. He'd rather go first than see the woman he loved leave forever. — I-I... I think that's a rather morbid wish, don't you think?

The girl shook her head.

— I think it's the sentence we all carry — She concluded. — I'm sorry if I touched on a sensitive subject for you.

— It's alright. — It wasn't. — We need to take a bath and get all this dirt off us.

He changed the subject and took her by the hands so quickly into the house that she didn't have time to breathe and tell him what had been bothering her. Not that she wanted to tell him, knowing that George would do everything he could to take that away from her and that would cost him a lot.

Four months later:

She was sick and no one knew except John, her best friend. When George received that phone call at the studio, something inside him knew it wasn't good news. Although the news hit him like a speeding car, he couldn't feel anything about the fact that you had told John and not him that you were in the terminal phase. The electric guitar fell from his hands, making a loud noise that pierced the acoustic walls of the studio. He wanted it all to be just a nightmare.

He blamed himself a lot. It was obvious that her thinness wasn't normal, but he was so busy with the recordings of the White album that he was living on autopilot. He fought with John. He wanted to punch John.

He wanted to hold back his tears, he didn't want to yell at one of his best friends... But John knew George had been holding back his tears since Brian's death. It was George who held down the fort with the media when Brian died because John couldn't speak.

And losing you was unbearable... And when he remembered that you had asked him to bring you sunflowers, he wanted to tear out every single flower from that garden and set it on fire.

For the first time, gardening had become a distaste for him. Geo was immensely devastated. He swallowed his pride, made peace with John, and asked his friend to accompany him on your wake. George wanted to fulfill your last request despite all the anger and sadness bottled up in his chest about those "damned flowers."

And so, every year... He brought you sunflowers. He would plant a flowerbed on your grave if it would bring you back.

Present: 1995, Summer.

George sighed. His chest seemed full of that anguish from the past, and to remember you and John now with a bitter taste in his mouth was devastating. He put on a brave face. Mentally, he made a small prayer that your spirits could find the peace you so sought in life. George had married someone he liked, had a beautiful family, but you never left Geo's heart and Friar Park. There was a part of you there, and it was those vibrant yellow flowers.

— Sunflowers are happy flowers to me. I love them.— He remembered what you had said. He no longer hated them because they were a sweet reminder of you. It was the color that was missing from his life, and in a way, it was there, almost spiritually cheering him up.

George wiped away the tears with the sleeve of his jacket, which by this point had already flooded his eyes, making his vision blurry.

— I will always love you. — He said to himself, hoping that you, Brian, and John could hear him wherever you were.

[call-me-strega]

How to Become a Step-Dad in 5 Easy Steps: part 2 (chapter 1/?)

Here is part 1, lore

Edit: ao3 link now here

They do go to a library in this chapter so there are a lot of references to books in this chapter. I've read some but not all of them so I can say anything about their quality more than as things that I thought sounded interesting in theory. A lot of the stuff at the library was inspired by my own experiences with public libraries.

~~~

Step 2: Get to know them

Within the next 4 months Jason ran into Danny several more times. Each time becoming more and more enamored with the young man. It was hard not to when he saw how kind and hard-working he was.

~

The first time he ran into Danny after their first meeting he actually ran into Ellie first. Well, technically she ran into him but that's beside the point. But if you were gonna get technical about it he heard her little giggles before he saw her.

He had been at the library during some of his downtime to peruse some books and relax. The life of a vigilante crime lord isn't a very peaceful one, go figure. That's why Jason liked taking some time to himself every once in a while whether it was to have tea with Alfred, hang with one of his friends or siblings, or in this case visit Gotham Public Library.

Sure he could've gone to the Manor Library or gotten something online but the Manor was pretty far from the Alley and preferred having physical copies of his books rather than a computer or tablet. Electronics just didn't have that nostalgic book smell or the soft touch of a well-loved page.

Going to the library also came with its own perks. For one, he got to visit Barbie at work. It was always nice to see her as they had this unspoken solidarity between them. The atmosphere was also a plus. There was just something special about being able to be completely solitary yet still have this special connection to the other patrons. Seeing the old man enjoying a novel with his wife, the book club that met on Sundays, the haggard office worker winding down on the weekend with a graphic novel, the young woman teaching herself sign language, the teens goofing off while they were supposed to be studying, a mom reading The Kissing Hand to her kids, all of the various people here for various reasons; all of it made Jason feel like he was a part of something bigger.

He was currently browsing a display of LGBT+ books for young adults that the library had put up for Pride Month. '"Cemetery Boys", "Aristotle and Dante", "You Should See Me in a Crown", "Six of Crows", "Boyfriend Material", "Red, White, and Royal Blue", "Carry On", Oh- "The Song of Achilles" that sounds interesting?'

That’s when he felt a small chill pass behind him. He initially dismissed it as a draft from the air conditioner, but soon after he heard the sound of excited giggles nearby. He didn't think too much of it assuming it was another kid on their way out of the children's section. However, something niggled in the back of his head that this particular giggle was one he was familiar with.

That's when he felt something collide with his leg. He looked down to see a small child with a head of glossy black hair in a red beanie glomping his leg. Suddenly, the child looked up and beamed at him. Jason's eyes lit up with recognition and he laughed.

" Hey there munchkin, how are you?"

Ellie continued to smile, releasing her hold on his leg.

" I'm doing really good Mr. Jason! Daddy told me he didn't have any work today and he said we could go anywhere we wanted! First, we went to the bodega a got these really big breakfast sandwiches! Like really really big! Like the size of my face and we shared! And then Daddy took me to the park and it was really fun! I saw a squirrel there but it ran away before I could pet it! And then we came here and Daddy said we'd make me a library card so I could get whichever books I wanted. He read Oh The Places You Will Go and Where the Wild Things Are to me and then they were gonna have story time and Daddy looked tired from the park so I told him to read one of his space books and rest while I went to story time like a big girl! When story time was over I looked around and saw you so I came over to say hi and thank you for the cookies and food because daddy says we should always say thank you when people give us gifts!"

Damn, the girl sure had one hell of a motor mouth on her. It seemed she and Danny were in the middle of a father-daughter day. It brought a smile to his face to see that she was well taken care of, but based on her very informative rambles, it seemed they were taking care of each other.

" Why don't we go say hi to your dad, huh Elle?"

The young girl gasped, "That's a great idea! Then Daddy can say thank you too! And then you can read with us and come to our house for dinner! Daddy kept saying how he wanted to make something for you too since you made us the-, the- uuh... luz-on-ya and cookies!"

" Whoa there munchkin, how about we just start with hi?"

Ellie nodded with a determined look on her face, she wrapped her little hand around his pointer finger and pulled him along to the semi-secluded corner of the children's section. Sitting there in an armchair next to a small pile of books was Danny, who seemed to be out cold, The Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy slipping from his fingers.

'Aah he must be tired from moving in and probably from working too' Jason thought to himself. A smaller voice in the back of his chimed in with its own two cents. ' He still made time for her. He took her out and is spending the whole day with her even though he's tired. He's a good dad.' That's when he made up his mind not to disrupt Danny's nap and let him get some rest before he had to tackle the rest of his father-daughter day with his hyperactive six-year-old. He placed a hand on Ellie's shoulder, stopping her as she was about to shake Danny awake, and leaned down to whisper in her ear.

" It looks like you were right about your dad being tired. How about we let him rest for now and I'll say hi another time? Besides I wouldn't want to interrupt your daddy-daughter day now would I?" He started to guide her to a different portion of the library quickly forming a plan, "Hows' bout we do something I think you'll like? Did you know sometimes they bring puppies and kitties into the library?"

The young girl gasped, " REALLY!"

" Yeah, sometimes puppies and kitties can help people who are feeling sad or nervous feel better. They also help teach kids how to act nicely and quietly so that they don't scare animals by letting them read to a puppy or kitty. I can help you sign up to read to a puppy or kitty today if you want? Then afterward, you can go tell your dad and he'll be really proud of you."

The young girl seemed so excited by the prospect that Jason worried for a second that she might explode.

" That's a great idea Mr. Jason! He'll be so proud of me and he'll bring me again! And I'll get so good at not scaring animals that the squirrels in the park will let me pet them! Then, Daddy will be so impressed that he'll let us get our own puppy and Cujo can come live with us!"

Jason winced, perhaps his plan had been a tad too effective. Single parents had a hard enough time keep themselves afloat while looking after their kids, a pet was extra expenses and another commitment to devote time and effort to. Pets were usually out of budget and out of question for anyone living in or near the Alley.

Well, he'd cross that bridge if he ever got to it. For now, he focused on getting Ellie signed up to read to Charlie, the old St. Bernard that was at the library this today. He and the trainer, he squinted reading her name tag, Amanda, supervised the session. Jason would be lying if he wasn't endeared by the sight of a young girl reading Dragons Love Tacos very enthusiastically to a dog nearly twice her size.

" It's nice to see a young father spending time with his daughter."

'I agree' Jason thought before realizing Amanda thought he was Ellie's dad.

" Oh- ah no I'm her -," Jason quickly made up his mind on the least creepy excuse he could find, " -babysitter. Although, her father does make a lot of effort spend time with her."

The dog trainer flushed and apologized for her mistake but Jason waved her off saying it was no big deal. Silently, he wondered how often Danny got time to himself. When he realized what he was thinking he raised an eyebrow at himself before dismissing it as worry for a young parent and wondering how he divided his time to be able to take such good care of his daughter.

Ellie was saying her final goodbyes to Charlie when he got a text from Alfred reminding him he had promised to meet him for tea and some chitchat. Once Ellie returned to his side he let her know that he had had fun seeing her today but that he had to go spend some time with his granddad and that he'd have to say hi to her dad another time. She accepted this with a surprising amount of maturity for a 6-year-old but made him pinky-promise that he'd definitely spend some time with the both of them next time they saw each other. Jason happily accepted and sent her back off to her dad before heading over to the tea shop he and Alfred liked to meet at.

" It is so nice to see you again Master Jason. I'm happy to see arrive in one piece. Usually when you are delayed it is due to some rather -ah, unfortunate hold-ups," Alfred greeted him. He returned the smile, sinking into his seat across from Alfred, ready to unload.

" Not this time Alfie, though it is a bit of a story."

" One I'm sure you'll be pleased to tell me all about," he challenged, raising an eyebrow. Jason just shook his head and chuckled.

" Sure thing Alfie."

~

The next time he ran into Danny and Ellie he was at the grocery store.

Jason had been examining a piece of zucchini when he felt a light, cool breeze quickly followed by the sensation of someone walking past him. A lean figure came and stood nearby inspecting the squash. Jason glanced up, having registered a new presence, before doing a double take. A small grin graced his lips as he spoke,

" Well hey there neighbor, didn't expect to see you today."

Danny looked up, slightly startled before he saw that it was Jason. He smiled back and returned his greeting in a warm tone.

" Hey neighbor, I didn't expect to see you either. Honestly, I was hoping we wouldn't meet till I had made a batch of my family's signature fudge to give you as a thank you when we returned your dishes for the food and for looking after Ellie that day in the library."

" Ah~ the little munchkin told you bout that did she?"

" She was pleased to inform me about how she was learning not to scare animals and how Mr. Jason was sooo nice and even pinky promised to spend some more time with her." he teased.

Jason flushed slightly, his hand coming up to the back of his neck,

" Oh yeah, I hope I didn't overstep my bounds there. She just seemed so excited."

" Yeah, that sounds like my little spitfire!" he chuckled fondly. He took a deep breath and continued. " Well if you don't have anything else going on tonight I'd love to have you over. Ellie has really been looking forward to seeing you again and I can whip up some fudge that you can take home with you if you stay for dinner?" Danny seemed to flush at his own forwardness before rushing to continue, " I mean- not that you have to, especially if you're busy! I just- thought it might be nice to get to know my neighbor, especially since Ellie seems to like you so much! But-"

Jason, who had just finished processing the dinner invite, interrupted before Danny spiraled deeper into his nervous rambles. He place a hand on Danny's shoulder to get his attention and spoke,

" Sure. I'd love to come over Danny." He smiled, puffing up his chest, “ Besides, I have a pinky promise to fulfill.”

Danny returned his smile with a laugh, giving Jason's shoulder an embarrassed shove. Jason grinned at having successfully made the other laugh. The two stared at each other for a beat, coming down from their high of making each other laugh, before flushing and looking away. A look of realization passed over Danny's face and he turned to speak to Jason again.

" You probably have your own groceries to finish and put away. How about you come over around 7:30? I can have the fudge cooling in the fridge while we eat, oh which reminds me, you’re not allergic to anything are you?"

Jason smiled back. "7:30 sounds great Danny and no, no allergies as far as I’m aware, though I’m not particularly fond of most shellfish."

“Well alrighty then I’ll see you at 7:30,” Danny confirmed with a smile and rushed off to continue his own shopping.

And that’s how Jason found himself standing outside the Nightingale residence in a casual maroon 3/4 sleeve tee, a dark denim jacket, and some of his nicer trousers with a bouquet of flowers he put a frankly embarrassing amount of thought into. He figured bringing more food wouldn’t be appropriate since he was a dinner guest, dessert wouldn’t fly either as Danny had claimed he’d be making fudge, and wine didn’t seem appropriate with a 6-year-old also in attendance.

‘Come on Jason, it’s just a casual dinner with your neighbors! Normal human interaction, nothing to be nervous about! You can do this!’

Jason took a breath and knocked on the door. He heard a pitched squee followed by a “it’s him daddy!” come from behind the door. Unconsciously, Jason smiled as he heard the door unlocking. As it opened he was met with a cool breeze from within the apartment and the sight of his two neighbors. Danny was in a pale, moss green apron, smudged with what appeared to be powdered sugar, over a pale blue button up with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows, and cuffed jeans. Ellie was dressed in an interesting combo of pink crocs, neon green leggings, a sparkly, powder blue tutu, a white shirt with glittery black script declaring her “Daddy’s little princess”, a denim jacket embroidered with flowers and vines on the back and sleeves, and a plastic tiara with a big purple gem in the middle fixed atop her signature red beanie.

“Hi,” Danny greeted a bit breathlessly. His young daughter stood in front of him beaming up at Jason.

“ Mr. Jason you came!” She bounced excitedly on her heels before launching forward to hug his leg. She tugged at his jacket before pointing to her own, “Look! We match!”

With a smile, Jason got down on one knee and offered the flowers to her, “ And what an honor it is to match with such a beautiful princess! Please, accept these flowers as a token of my goodwill m’lady!”

“Thank you!” The girl giggled, accepting the bouquet and scurrying back into the apartment. Jason watched her go with a smile. He then turned his gaze to look up at Danny who watched the whole interaction with a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. He met Jason’s gaze and smiled.

“Why don’t you come in too my good sir,” he teased, holding out his hand to help Jason up. Jason smirked at the opportunity Danny had unknowingly presented him. He took Danny’s hand but made no move to get up. Instead, he ran his thumb over the other man’s knuckles and slowly brought the hand closer to his face. He glanced up once more, teal eyes connecting to icy blue ones.

“Of course my dear king,” he whispered. His breath dancing over Danny’s hand, his lips ghosting over his knuckles. Maintaining eye contact, the kneeling man placed a gentle kiss on his knuckles, watching a beautiful red flush bloom upon the young man’s face.

‘His hand is cold. His fingers have the beginnings of callouses on them. It feels like his hand was made to fit in mine. This feels right’

Jason is snapped out of his reverie when Danny clears his throat. He coughs into his other hand while trying to hide his blush, averting his eyes in embarrassment. He doesn't withdraw his hand however, allowing Jason to continue to hold it. Jason took that as his sign to get up before this got too awkward.

He rose from the ground still not letting go of the other's hand. The pair stood there for a moment with their hands intertwined, as if a message was being passed through their tingling palms. A charge filled the air with an exhilarating tension. The kind you feel before trying something unfamiliar and new that, unbeknownst to you, will become your favorite.

“So, uh, let’s head in then?” Danny said, slowly withdrawing his hand from Jason’s, almost as if he was reluctant to do so.

“Let’s,” Jason replied and the two turned into the apartment.

Danny had Ellie show Jason to the bathroom so he could wash up as he set the table. He had made grilled squash, a macaroni and beef hotdish, and some Greek salad on the side. The three of them sat at the table making some small talk ( how are they liking it in Gotham, how did the rest of daddy-daughter day go, does Jason have restaurant/activity recommendations, would he like to see Ellie’s favorite model airplane, etc.) and laughing with each other over horrible dad jokes and Ellie’s antics.

Jason could feel his chest fill with an almost unbearable warmth. He would’ve sworn it’d have melted him from the inside out if it hadn’t been accompanied by an overwhelming feeling of joy and desire. The traitorous little whisper in his head returned to comment on how much he’d love to be a part of the Nightingale’s family.

Soon enough it was time for Ellie to head to bed and Jason to head out, lest he be late for patrol.

“Here, I can clear off the table while you put her to bed.”

Danny rushed to stop him despite the young child koala wrapped over his torso. “Oh, you really don’t have to do that. I can-”

“Relax your highness, let me take care of this while you put the princess to bed.” He gave Danny a kind look, hefting up the dirty dishes. Danny returned it with a grateful look and turned to go put his daughter to bed. Over his shoulder, Ellie looked up sleepily and weakly waved one last time saying “Goodnight Mr.Jason” in a small voice.

Jason smiled gently at her and replied, “Goodnight princess.”

He then turned back to his task of clearing the table. Moving the dirty dishes to the sink and the serving dishes to the counter. He figured he’d get started on the dishes while he waited for Danny to return. He let his mind wander as he covered a plate with soapy suds. Danny and Ellie seemed like a good pair of neighbors. He doubted they’d cause him any trouble and if they ever unintentionally did, Jason found himself thinking he’d find it rather easy to forgive them. The two were both so welcoming and full of life. They made Jason feel so happy and peaceful tonight. They welcomed him into their home and made him feel as if they enjoyed his company and wanted him around for more than just a cursory “return the favor” dinner. ‘As If he belongs there. With them.’ The little voice returned, prompting Jason to reel in his thoughts. He’s only known them for what? Two weeks? These weren’t the type of thoughts he should be having at this point. He tried to rationalize it telling himself he just missed the domesticity of family dinners like he had when Catherine was in a good stretch or like he had with Bruce, Dick, and Alfred as kid when they were all getting along. He made up his mind to attend one of the bi-weekly family dinners at the manor coming up. It’d be nice to see the little demon brat, big bird, and nerd bird again now that they were getting along like actual brothers.

“Oh! Jason you didn’t have to do that!” His train of thought broken by Danny rushing over to protest him doing dishes. “You’re a guest! You really didn’t have to-”

“It’s okay Danny, I wanted to,” he reassured the fussing young man who pulled him away from the sink. The young man responded by pushing him out of the kitchen and telling him to grab his jacket before turning back to grab something from the fridge.

And there he stood in the doorway, 20 minutes after he had intended to leave, still saying goodbye. Danny pushed a familiar Tupperware container into his hands, which recognized as the one he had given them lasagna in, now full of dark squares of fudge sprinkled with a bit of white and green on top.

Danny smiled as he handed him the sweets. “A family recipe with my own little twist on it,” he winked. Jason gratefully accepted, wishing the young man well and agreeing that he hoped to see the other again soon. And with that, Jason rushed off hoping that he wouldn’t be late for patrol.

~ Later that night Jason returned to his apartment, exhausted. He chucked his helmet off onto the bed and stumbled to his kitchen. He pulled open the fridge in search of something to eat when his eyes landed on the fudge his neighbor had given him. He pulled it out and grabbed a square, giving it a sniff before biting in. His eyes widened at the taste.

The fudge was, well fudgy, but not overly sweet. It had a richness of dark chocolate and a sweeter note from the white chocolate chips mixed in. There were also candied orange peels mixed into it which gave the fudge a bit of chew and acidity to break up the richness. The fudge was topped with pistachios adding a nutty, earthy flavor to the experience. He’s sure that if Martian Manhunter ever tried these he’d accuse Jason of giving him hard drugs. But what Jason liked most of all was the quality only homemade food and family recipes passed down over generations have. He could practically taste the amount of love and thought that went into this fudge.

Jason smiled to himself finishing off his square and decided the save the rest for later. He headed off to bed with a peaceful smile on his face and a warm, full, feeling in his chest.

~~~

I tried very hard to balance out the dialogue and description as well as to not make it too long winded and keep the story moving so please let me know what you guys think. I love receiving feedback so if there is anything you want to see more or less of let me know. I’m also open to suggestions of where Jason should run into our father-daughter pair next.

If anyone's interested here is what the bouquet was comprised of: apple blossom- preference, basil- good wishes, white camellia- you're adorable, goldenrod- encouragement/good fortune, violets- watchfulness/modesty/faithfulness

I actually looked up a real fudge recipe so that I'd have and easier time describing it. You can find it here: https://www.midwestliving.com/recipe/candy/creamy-rich-pistachio-tangerine-fudge

[clubdionysus]

[BAD DECISION #31] The Photo Booth

warnings: THE photoboth chapter!!!! a legend amongst bd readers!!!! we meet jaykays mum (shes the best) and his dad (legend), byeol gets her own back for the 'daddy' debacle, teasing, shameless flirting, a lil dirty talk, jaykay is desperate and whiney (just how we like him!!), precum...swapping?? as much as it can be swapped lmao, jaykay does her glitter ::(((((, a date! between friends!! some would argue!!, photobooths, kissing !!!!, oh god I love them so much, very cute, mmmmmm the way he says goodnight!! or alternatively, the way he doesn't say goodnight!!, our babies are v confused <3 cos they are stewpid <33

wc: 9k

bd total wc: 540k (ongoing)

AO3 | MASTERLIST | MINORS DNI

"Mum? Dad?" Jeongguk calls into the entryway of his family home, pushing the door further open with his shoulder.

Your bag is hooked over his broad back, along with his own, Jeongguk not even considering it a favour. Just helps you out in little ways whenever he can, just because he can. You do what you can to make his life easier, and so it's reciprocated without a second thought.

Carrying a bunch of fresh flowers that had hastily been picked up from the shop across the street, you're a little nervous. There was no way you could show up empty-handed, but had been so scatterbrained when you left your place, it had completely slipped your mind. They're pretty pink posies and are something - which is always better than nothing, even if they aren't all that impressive.

"Oh, you're here!" A sweet voice calls from the back of the house. The sound of indoor slippers scuff against the wooden floors, as his mother scurries to greet you both. "I thought you'd call when you were on your way!"

"Sorry," he apologises and leans down to let the bags softly tumble to the floor, before outstretching his arm for a hug. "Left in a bit of a rush."

Squeezing his mother gently, his back eclipses her from your view. Hands patting his back, you think you can tell a lot about a person from their hands - and she's no exception.

Well-manicured, his mum clearly looks after herself. She wears just two rings - her wedding band and engagement ring. Gold. The only remaining elements of her wedding jewellery that had survived the '98 gold drive.

"Spent my whole life in that house," Jeongguk had said of his family home on the journey to Busan. He'd been opening up. Telling you tales that you'd have never heard if you had declined his offer. Is clueing you in on the life that formed him. Wants you to know. "They held onto it throughout everything. The financial crisis, turn of the century, everything. I'm lucky. We were never well-off, but they never let me know when we were struggling."

It explains a lot about who Jeongguk is, you think. Never wants others to shoulder his burdens. Keeps things bottled up until the glass shatters - but you can see through glass. You always know.

A modest three-bed, there's something nostalgic about the four walls he calls home. Though you've never been here, it somehow feels familiar - but that's perhaps more so to do with the scent of laundry drying, and the fact that Jeongguk uses the same fabric conditioner as his mother always has done.

Swanning Jeongguk out of the way, his mother greets you with a smile that could stoke warmth in even the coldest of hearts - and suddenly, you understand exactly where Jeongguk gets it from.

Dark, round eyes, and a smile as radiant as a spring day, she's got the kind of delicate nature bestowed upon Disney princesses. If you were to learn she'd been a model in her youth, you wouldn't be surprised. 

Introducing yourself,  you hold out the flowers for her to take.

"For you," you offer, a little shy and reserved, in a way that Jeongguk doesn't see too often. Your glitter - toned down today, for some reason - sparkles in the late afternoon sun that pours through the windows. "Thank you so much for offering to host me. I really hope it hasn't put you out too much-"

"Oh, don't be silly," she tuts, flipping her hand away as if to emphasise that it really is no big deal. "It's always lovely to have Jeongguk's friends staying with us."

She glances over to Jeongguk. Leans in a little closer. Whispers just loud enough for him to hear. "Plus I'm sure you'll be a far better house guest than Jimin ever is!"

"Mum!" Jeongguk goes to defend his housemate - but he knows his mother adores Jimin. Treats him like a third son. Knows she's creating an alliance with you, given the little lie Jeongguk told about you previously dating Jimin.

"What?!" She plays innocent, and it's suddenly so easy to see why Jeongguk is the way that he is. A product of the people around him, he soaks up their best qualities like a sponge in search of water. His playfulness must come from her. Taking the bunch of flowers, she smiles. "Let's go put these in a vase. You must be hungry."

"Ravenous," Jeongguk confirms, as if he didn't eat half an hour ago. "What's for dinner? And where's dad?"

"At the driving range," she tuts, encouraging you both further into the house.

Large and open plan, the sitting room is adjacent to the kitchen; a space designed for socialisation, it's clear that Jeongguk's parents enjoy hosting. It's no surprise that they agreed to let you stay without hesitation, and is also why Jeongguk had no qualms about asking.

"Minhyuk got a new driver that he wanted to show off, apparently," she continues. "A Titlelist. Got it in some dodgy back alley sale. Your father reckons he's been scammed, but Minhyuk reckons it's the real deal, so I'll guess we'll see."

"Minhyuk lives down the road," Jeongguk explains to you as his mum rummages around in a cupboard to find her favourite vase. He's smiling, amused by it all. "Bit of a busybody. Likes being in people's business, so Dad likes to return the favour. Petty middle-aged man shit."

"Watch your language," his mother scolds. He apologises immediately.

It's sweet, seeing Jeongguk like this. He's always been respectful, even if he does swear like a sailor and has a sense of humour that would send a prude to an early grave.

"As for dinner, I told your father to meet us at the samgyeopsal place you like down by the beach-"

"Ugh," Jeongguk smiles, beaming from ear to ear. "Thank you."

"Don't know why you're thanking me," she hums sweetly as she arranges the flowers in the vase. A little lacklustre while they were still wrapped up, she manages to preen them to look far more beautiful. "You're paying."

"I'm- what?!" He whines, now, taking on the role of youngest son perfectly.

She's just joking, and you all know it - but you also know Jeongguk will likely try and cover the bill regardless. Glancing over to you with a cheeky grin, his mum playfully shrugs her shoulders. You return the smile, and giggle a little harder when Jeongguk continues to whine.

"Oh hush your moaning," she simply says. "Go take your bags through to your rooms. We'll head out in half an hour."

Jeongguk doesn't protest. Drags you along with him back to the entry hall to retrieve the bags.

"See," he says quietly, finding your shyness all rather curious. You're never normally like this. Never so quiet. "Told you there was nothing to worry about. Mum always likes my friends."

Picking up your bag to hoist it over your shoulder, you simply say, "Nerves are natural."

Jeongguk doesn't entirely disagree, but really thinks there's no need for you to feel this way.

"Yeah, if you're meeting, like, a girlfriend's parents," he says. "My parents are nothing to be scared of. Idiot."

"Doesn't matter if I'm not your girlfriend, Gguk. I still want them to like me," you remind him. "And let's be realistic here, parents aren't one for subtleties. You've brought a girl home and have hickies on your neck - I need to touch up the foundation, by the way. If they notice, they're gonna add two and two and get five."

"Well actually," he interjects. "They'll add two and two and get four. You are the girl who gave me them."

You laugh. He's got a point. "But I'm not your girlfriend ."

Yep , he thinks. Thanks for the reminder.

It's not like he even wants that. He knows that things are good as they are. Knows that any indication of things getting serious will likely make you run for the hills.

Things feel easy, now. He doesn't wanna do anything that will complicate it. Won't tell you how he's feeling, 'cause he knows the second it does, things will change.

He doesn't know if it would be for better or for worse, but he knows you. Knows his own lived experiences.

The mistakes made with Hayun have contorted his ability to go with his heart, because he knows the pain it can cause. Will take the nail-biting uncertainty of his feelings for you over the soul-crushing certainty of rejection any day of the week.

You're equally as shaped by your own experiences.

Once had a man who would declare his love for you on a Monday morning before his monthly business trip, only for him to spend the entire week in bed with a girl from the accounting department. You've no trust in words. No trust in anything, really, when it comes to matters of the heart. All you can trust is how you feel - but even that's a little more confusing than usual, these days.

"And thank God for that," Jeongguk teases, which seems to settle the woes within you. He tilts his head to the side and guides you up the hallway. "C'mon. I'll show you to your room."

He deliberately doesn't show you his own room. Will show you later, once he's had the chance to hide away most of the embarrassing stuff he hasn't touched since he was a teenager.

Instead, he leads you straight into his brother's old room, and winces.

"It's worse than I remembered."

Jeongmin's bedroom walls are coated in the Lotte Giants; like an oil slick on the surface of a road, or ice cream dripping down the side of a cone. Unsubtle, garish and impossible to ignore, the man is an interior decor menace.

Flags, shirts, commemorative posters, you name it; Jeongmin has it. You think he must have personally spent enough money to fund an entire season of the KBO.

It's a pretty inoffensive colour scheme - white, blue, red - but it's still an eyesore. The rest of the house is well-decorated. Tasteful. Roses do come with thorns, you consider. Maybe Jeongmin and Jeongguk's rooms qualify for that position.

"So your brother likes football?" You deadpan - although you're sure if there was a Lotte Giants branded football, you'd be able to find one in this room.

Jeongguk just shakes his head. Doesn't even dignify it with a proper response.

"It's a miracle he even managed to get girlfriends during high school. This shit is... I didn't recall there being so much."

Signed baseballs, bobbleheads, foam fingers. God. It's endless. Trading card binders, house slippers, even a rubber duck. It's overwhelming.

"What about now?" You ask of Jeongmin's passion. "Still obsessed?"

"Less so," Jeongguk shrugs. "Did call his dog Seagull, though."

The prospect of a dog being called Seagull has you bursting into laughter. You half think Jeongguk is joking - but quickly realise he isn't. For some reason, that only makes it even funnier.

"Will he be at dinner? Your brother?" You ask, setting your bag down on the freshly made bed. The scent of laundry detergent wafts up, and it reminds you of being back at Jeongguk's place in the city. You've never felt more at home in a stranger's bedroom.

"Why?" Jeongguk asks, narrowing his eyes, remembering what you had said earlier. "You're not allowe-"

"Oh give over," you laugh. "You know I won't."

You've never seen his brother, but already know Jeongguk must be the brother. The one that the girls go crazy over.

Then again, Jeongguk did say that his brother is a fuck boy. Perhaps he's just as handsome.

Impossible .

Thing is, Jeongguk doesn't know you won't go for his brother. You made threats earlier. Knows he ignited a fire in you the second he pulled the 'Daddy' stunt. Knows you're competitive. Regrets it a little bit now. Only has himself to blame.

"Anyway, piss off," you playfully tell him. "I wanna get changed."

Jeongguk doesn't care. Takes a seat by his brother's desk, instead. Smirks. Raises his brows in that promiscuous, boyish way that always disrupts the butterflies who peacefully rest in your diaphragm. "Okay. Get changed."

"Gguk," you deadpan. He's pushing his luck, and he knows it. Glances over to the door. It's ajar, but pushed shut enough to obscure any unwanted eyes. Just means he needs to keep his deep voice quiet.

"What?" He flirts. "Nothing I haven't seen before."

"Your mum is down the hallway!" You whisper-shriek. Sometimes you forget how much of a boy Jeongguk is, and then he pulls shit like this.

The worst part?

You love it when he's like this; all cheeky and brazen, audacious in his quest to get what he wants.

And when it's you that he wants? Oh, it gets you all hot under the collar. He has that effect on people, you think. It can't just be you.

"So?" He licks his lips. Rakes his eyes down your body. Looks fucking hungry - and to him, you look like a 5-course meal he'd gladly get on his knees and beg for. "She's not gonna come in."

His lips press down against one another, tightly. His lip ring does the thing. You whine.

"Gguk."

"Byeol." He teases. "It's not like you're getting naked. Not like we'd be doing anything. Seen you in your underwear so many times."

He'd like to know that he still can. Wants to know he hasn't fucked it all up by getting you a little vulnerable earlier.

"Maybe I am getting naked," you whisper back, feeling challenged now.

"Are you?"

"Should I?" You tease. He sits up a little straighter. Tries to be subtle as his hand drops between his legs, the heel of his palm pressing against himself. Fails. You know he's adjusting himself. Know that it means he's getting a little excited.

"Think if you need to, then you should," he simply replies. "Just a little revision of a bird, no? Nakedness ? It'd be good."

You don't need to get fully undressed. Not in the slightest - and you're not gonna.

In fact, Jeongguk isn't gonna see anything - but you're still gonna fuck with him a little first. He deserves it after this morning.

You turn away from him. Shrug the jacket off your shoulders. Toss it onto the bed. Open up your bag, and have a little dig around.

"I'm not sure what to wear," you hum, sounding a little defeated. It's intentional. Want him to think you're being genuine.

Turning to face him, you hold lingerie in either hand. Packed deliberately just to fuck with him. Had figured you'd wear it discreetly, letting him know as and when he deserved to know. Would use it to wind him up - and not to give him any satisfaction. He's right in thinking he's ignited a little competition in you.

Didn't realise you'd take him to war, instead.

He's not seen you in either of these. Has never really seen you in your 'nice' stuff. All of your underwear is nice to a certain extent, because you're intentional with your purchases. Like feeling good beneath even a pair of sweats.

However, Jeongguk has only ever been treated to matching sets.

After all, you've never tried to seduce him. He's your friend. You fuck each other, sure, but it's cause it's comfortable. Safe.

The lace in your hand is far too exciting for your established arrangement.

In your left hand is a lace bodysuit. Mesh panels make up the structure, but it's the ornate, hand-sewn lace that really makes it beautiful. The neckline is fairly high, so sometimes you get away with wearing it at a top on nights out. Been a while since you went that risque.

In your right hand, it's a classic black garter belt. Jeongguk has no idea what the fuck they're called, just knows he likes them.

He swallows. Licks his lips. Doesn't know where to focus his eyes. Barely realises he's gripping himself now. Is so fucking hard.

"Which is your favourite?" You ask, eyes innocent, voice nonchalant.

Jeongguk thinks he'll die if you wear either.

"Both are fine," he manages to say, eventually.

"Fine isn't good," you pout.

"Well what do you want me to say, B?" He whispers, clearly a little frustrated. Not with you. With himself . "That as soon as you put them on, I'll wanna take them off you? They're fuckin' hot. Both of them. Fuck ."

He tilts his head back. Whines a little. Moans. "Why do I do this to myself?"

"Think you might be a masochist," you giggle now, tossing the lingerie back down by your bag. Will save it for later. Poor boy is going through it. "You did this to yourself."

He looks at you with a huff and a frown that is far too sweet for the situation at hand.

"I'm stupid," he pouts. "Pea brain. You're the one with a big brain. You should tell me to stop doing pea brain things."

"You wouldn't listen to me even if I did," you smile fondly as you walk towards him - 'cause even if it looks like he's admitting defeat, you don't trust him yet. His cock is too hard to be making sensible choices.

Coming to a stop between his legs, you don't stop Jeongguk when his large hands stroke up the backs of your thighs. Your own hands are toying with his hair. It's all very amorous; affectionate despite the allure.

"You don't know that," he whispers, still. Cupping his strong jaw, you tilt his head upwards. Your hair is still up from earlier, and he regrets it now. Always loves it when your hair tumbles around his face. Likes being consumed by the entity of you. The scent of your shampoo, the softness of your well-conditioned hair. Heaven.

"You made a bad decision this morning," you remind him. "Would have done it even if I told you it was a bad decision."

Regretfully, Jeongguk thinks this is true. That instant gratification of his ' Daddy' stunt made it worth it.

Worth it at the time, at least.

He's not so sure, now.

Sinking to your knees, your hands stroke up his thighs. Jeongguk looks down at you, tongue wetting his lips. There's a change in his breathing. Anticipation.

"You know," you say quietly, making sure no sound travels at all. You're not looking to get kicked out of Jeongguk's house within an hour of being invited in. Looking directly at his hard crotch as your hands squeeze his thighs, you simper. "I really thought you were gonna take charge this morning. Thought you were gonna get me where you wanted me."

"Yeah?" he husks, pulling on his shirt, releasing it from the belt around his waist. Lifts it a little. Gets his abs out. Is doing shit he knows will make you salivate. One of your hands follows his encouragement and pushes up his chest. Hard beneath your warm hand, his body really is a gift from the gods.

"Yeah," you tease.

"What did you think, huh?" He says, his hand cupping your cheek to raise your gaze to his. It'd embarrass you, if it were anyone else; but for some reason, you don't mind worshipping Jeongguk unabashedly. Are on your knees like his body is your alter. Whisper words of sin like you're in a confessional. Pray that you'll never have to give this up. Religion is wasted on you, and Jeongguk is a false God, but you've never felt more holy than when you're committing cardinal sins with him. "Where was I gonna get you?"

Smiling in that coy way you so often do whenever he gets you a little vocal, your eyes rake back down his body.

"Right here," you shrug. Give him those eyes; the ones that make Jeongguk think he's seeing fucking stars. Smirk, before you say, "thought you were gonna get your cock in my mouth."

"Shit," he curses as you press down over the hard ridge in his pants. He's always so pleased to see you - especially like this. "You want that, huh? Wanna suck on it?"

Nodding, you bite on the lip, sin written in the constellations Jeongguk's gazing at. "Wanna make you feel good, Koo."

If Jeongguk doesn't get his cock in your mouth within the next minute, he's pretty sure he'll die. Has wanted it for weeks. Months . Wants you in any capacity he can get you, granted, but there are few things in life better than a good blow job. Good pussy, is, admittedly one of those things, but he already knows you have that. Thinks your mouth must be just as good.

His hands drop to his belt. Metal clangs as he races to get it undone. You let him. Don't stop. Watch on with sated pleasure as he hurries. Undoes his buttons, and then his zipper is down, too. His Calvins are on display. There's a teeny tiny damp mark showing through; evidence of how badly he wants you. "We don't have long. Be quick, B. Gonna nut so fuckin' fast."

Smirking, there's something so painfully endearing about how needy Jeongguk is as he untucks himself from his boxers. Thick and firm, his cock is just as pretty as it always is whenever he's desperate for you. The little bead of precum pooling at his tip is begging for your tongue, the freckle on his shaft deserving of a pretty little kiss.

And then you pull back. Look at his pretty, needy face and raise a brow. Poor baby .

"Said I wanna make you feel good," you smirk. "Not that I will."

You get to your feet. Walk away. Giggle to yourself as Jeongguk fucking whines as quietly as he can. Needs that door closed. Needs you to know that this balling is gonna kill him off. Head thrown back, cock in his hand, he's gonna fucking die .

"B," he growls a little, faux sobs echoing from his throat.

"What?" You smile. He looks like a fucking state, desire taking hold of the way he's staring you out, chest heaving a little bit. And then, to add insult to injury, you remember to 'address him properly'. "Something wrong, Daddy ?"

His face bunches up. Regret embeds itself into the lines on his face. He whines. "You're so mean, Disco Ball."

He's cute. Really fucking cute.

It makes you feel bad.

And fuck, you want him.

Seeing him like this gets you all sorts of fucked up - but he deserves it.

He watches you cautiously as you walk a little closer.

You crouch between his legs this time, instead of getting down on your knees. Replace his hand with yours. Have missed how it feels to have him in your grip.

Eyes on his, you watch as his chest begins to beat a little fast. His lips are ajar. Eyes forlorn, he's desperate . His cock twitches in your hand, so you tighten your fingers. A hushed moan lets you know he likes this. Likes every fucking thing about it.

Licking your lips, you position yourself a little better. Glance down. Think it's a miracle you haven't given him head yet. Have never wanted to choke on a cock more - cause what are friends for, if not that?

"I'm not mean," you whisper. You drag your wet tongue across the tiny slit that is fucking oozing for you. It takes everything in you not to give into what you want. "I'm so nice to you, Koo."

You've got a point to prove, though. Ease your grip. Stand. Replace the now empty space in your hand with his chin between your thumb and index finger, grasping onto it as you tilt him upwards.

You hold your tongue out, encouraging him to do the same - and without even a second fucking thought, he does it.

Eyes wide, Jeongguk wants this. Want you. Wants your tongue on his.

And what Jeongguk wants?

Well, eventually , he always gets it.

Your tongue swipes against his; traces of his own precum sinking onto his tongue, masking the taste of you.

He wants more.

Wants you to do it again. Wants to taste you. Wants you to sit on his lap, tongue in his mouth. Wants to be too fucking busy with his lips to remember how to breathe.

And, like always, he will get it - just not now.

Eventually, yes.

Immediately, no.

"You're gonna fuckin' kill me one day, B," he whines as you walk away from him again.

"Good," you smile, talking at full volume now. Playtime is over.

You do, however, take off your shirt, and let him watch. All he can see is your back, but even that drives him insane. He can't remember the last time he was this worked up without any indication of a release. He's been horny all fucking day.

Pulling a fresh shirt over your head, you're a little sad to see he's tucked himself away when you turn around again.

"Go get ready," you say fondly. "We don't have long."

Jeongguk is pouting. A crease between his brows, he looks hard done by.

" So mean."

His stroppy demeanour makes you laugh. It's so classically him. A Ggukism, if you ever did see one.

"That's what you get for making me call you Daddy," you say quietly. Find it funny how much of a baby he's being - and consider that maybe he's the one that is better suited to the nickname.

He whines again. Louder this time. You glance to the door. Make sure you're still without disturbance.

You want to call him baby.

Just because it works, and it's funny, and - fuck it - maybe it'd be nice.

But it would also be a step too far, you think.

"Shush," you say affectionately, not accenting your command with 'baby' like you really want to. Instead, you walk over to him and cover his mouth with your palm. "What if someone hears you whining, huh? I don't wanna have to tell your mum you've just been tasting your own cum in your brother's bedroom, do you?"

"You're so fucked up," he wails, feeling incredibly hard done by. He needs to learn how to resist you. Never wants to have to endure this again.

"We're so fucked up," you correct. "I wouldn't be so mean to anyone else - but you deserved it."

He can't even argue against it. He knows that this is a product of his own creation.

"Go, get yourself sorted out," you encourage him along. "We don't have long."

He nods. Sighs. Gets to his feet, and does his trousers back up. Is convinced he'll die before your trip to Busan finishes if this is the game you're playing.

Leaving you to get ready (and to let his raging boner die, even if he won't) Jeongguk returns within 15 minutes. He's nonchalant, as if what happened the last time he was in the room was simply a fragment of your own imagination.

You're sitting by the floor-length mirror (which is, of course, adorned in Lotte Giants memorabilia), doing your makeup. Hair claw-clipped now, Jeongguk is a little sad to see your space buns go, but understands why. You seem to be a little more demure than usual.

He nudges his knee against your back, gentle in how he touches you, your body swaying ever so slightly.

"Don't," you smile, pulling the liquid glitter away from your face. "I'll get it in my eye."

There's an innuendo to be made there, but Jeongguk knows better. Just smirks. Plonks himself down next to you; cross-legged, knees up, arms hugging around them. He looks like a condensed version of himself like this, sitting as close to you as he possibly can just so he can see himself in the mirror.

"Little disco ball," he says fondly, watching you dab the glitter onto the inner corners of your eyes. It's not something he often calls you these days, but there's something about hearing the name now that makes you smile.

"Strange, isn't it?" You muse. "This time last year I was just disco-ballin' in your club. Didn't even know your name."

He nods. Smiles. "And now you're in my brother's bedroom turning yourself into a disco ball."

"Funny little lives, we live," you muse fondly. How far you've both come. If it wasn't for the glitter, you don't think you'd recognise yourself.

"Would you have ever predicted it?" he asks. Knows he was intrigued by you from the very moment he first saw you. Has no idea what you thought of him. Wonders if you had 'what if' thoughts about him. Who he was. Who he could be. What you could become. "That you'd end up here?"

"Honestly? Sorta wanted to curl up and die after you found me in your living room."

The memories are a little hazy, but you still remember the look on Jeongguk's sleepy face in the early morning sun that was intruding on his living room at the time.

Jeongguk nods. Smiles. Remembers it far better than you do. "Yeah, wasn't your finest hour."

You turn to look at him, chin resting on your shoulder. There's a glow about you now that Jeongguk can't seem to get enough of. Wants to drink you in like purple starfuckers at 2am in the heat of full-capacity Dionysus nights.

"I mean, I don't know," you say with a small shrug. "How often do you become friends with your punters?"

"Not often," he admits. "How often do you become friends with your bartenders?"

You're coy as you smile. "Not often."

Not ever, actually.

Yeonjun doesn't count - you've never spent any time with him sober, even if you do always enjoy seeing him behind the bar. Even then, it doesn't compare to the way you seem to light up whenever Jeongguk is serving your drinks.

Jeongguk's the first. The only.

Taking the liquid glitter from your hands, Jeongguk scoots a little closer. Gets more product on the wand, and sets the tube down beside him. Pinches your chin between his index finger and thumb.

There's no opposition from you; just a silent acceptance of Jeongguk dictating your movements. Lips parting as he draws a little closer, there's apprehension to the way your eyes flicker between his own pair and his lips.

Jeongguk is pleased, but tries not to let it show. Fights his smile. Battles the inner voices telling him that kissing you would be a good idea.

Breath hitched as his dark eyes survey your face, you're regretful of the way your body responds to him. Friendship tainted by desire; a natural by-product of fucking someone you really care about, you think.

It's no secret that you adore each other, but doesn't everyone feel so fondly about their best friends?

He's slow as he dabs the end of the wand against your cheek, following around the curve of your eye socket. Jeongguk always thinks you look so pretty when you highlight yourself with glitter there. It catches the light so easily that he always notices it. Might have even been the first glitter of yours that he notices in the dreary lights of Dionysus, the hedonistic haze of neon lights and dark shadows creating the disco ball effect he likes so much.

"There," he says quietly as he finishes evening it out. "Pretty little star."

"Careful," you say back just as quietly. "You'll give me an ego."

"Just returning the favour," he jokes, screwing the wand back into the tube, his hands working quickly. "The Daddy thing really did a number on my ego this morning."

Rolling your sparkly eyes, you gently push him away.

"Fuck off, Jeon," you playfully reprimand him for mentioning it again, getting to your feet. Smoothing out your clothes as you check yourself over in the mirror, you're pleased to see that Jeongguk has applied your glitter just the way you like it. Dabbing it out slightly, your heart swells a little with how attentive he is.

Still sitting exactly where he was, Jeongguk strokes up the inside of your leg. It's all very innocent. Just touching you 'cause he likes the comfort that comes with it. You're in sheer tights, there's a softness to them that Jeongguk likes. He tries to forget the garter belt you were holding earlier. Doesn't think you'd wear it out for dinner with his parents.

He's right.

No matter how hot it might be working him up in public, you're not about to go and do it in front of his parents . You have some morals at least, even if Jeongguk does make you momentarily forget about them from time to time.

Reaching down, you scratch his hair a little, just behind his ear. Eyes closed, he leans into your touch like a little puppy dog. So docile and devoted. Cute.

"C'mon," you encourage him, but remain fixed in position. Head versus heart. Wanna stay right where you are in the cocoon of Jeongguk's family home with him, but know you have places to be. "Shouldn't keep your mum waiting."

He nods, head resting against your leg. Sighs. "Yeah. You're right. Let's go."

You offer him a hand up, of which he gladly takes. Checks himself over in the mirror. Is still wearing the outfit he drove in. Considered changing, but he's aware of the way the girls at the service station were ogling him earlier. Knows the outfit probably has something to do with it.

He doesn't mention the change of your outfit; the fact that you're wearing a white shirt too, now. It's tucked into a little black skirt, he's certain you're probably gonna wear those slightly worn out Converse of yours - and he intends on doing the exact same.

"C'mon, kids!" Jeongguk's mum calls up the corridor, echoing your thoughts about needing to leave.

It's nice, you think, to be grouped with Jeongguk in such a way. Makes you feel like this is the way it's always been. Doesn't matter if you're in your twenties, and Jeongguk's mum met you an hour ago. There's an acceptance of you; of your place in her son's life.

He glances over at you, scrunching his nose a little. Is a little awkward. Likes the idea of you being part of his life since childhood. Is sad it'll never be the case.

"You heard her. Let's go."

Ushering you back down the hallway, a hand on top of your shoulder, thumb rubbing the nape of your neck, there's a casual intimacy to the way Jeongguk always finds an excuse to touch you.

It's not scary, nor daunting in the way that you always deem intimacy to be, but it is something . Gets you feeling a little flustered. Has you wriggling out of his grip with a laugh, as if he was tickling you.

"Stop annoying the poor girl," his mother scolds fondly as you come into her line of vision, which just simply earns another protest from Jeongguk.

"She's the annoying one."

You scoff. "That's rich coming from you."

It's all in good humour, and his mother appreciates this. Likes seeing Jeongguk goof around, especially knowing how stressed he's been lately. Has barely called. Missed his father's birthday to study.

All she wants is for her children to live happy, fulfilled lives, and if there's one thing to be noted about Jeongguk's current demeanour, it's that he's undoubtedly happy.

Whether or not that has anything to do with you, she doesn't know - but she wasn't born yesterday. His desire to visit home is understandable after the pressure of his studies. He needs rest - and somehow, he factors you into that rest.

Of her two children, Jeongguk's always been the more introverted one. He needs his time to recharge. Would be the life and soul of the party at school, then come home and remain silent until dinner time.

For a few years, it bothered her. Thought that maybe Jeongguk was unhappy at home - but it was quite the opposite. It's his safe space.

And now he's bringing you into it.

"Is the room okay?" she asks you, knowing that the sheer amount of baseball memorabilia in Jeongmin's room is... a lot to take in. "Interior decoration was always more of Jeongguk's speciality. Had Jimin to give him pointers. Jeongmin... Well, he had an acquired taste... As you've probably already gathered."

Laughing a little, you nod. "It's grand. Thank you for letting me stay. I really appreciate it - and I grew up with a Lions-loving Dad. I'm used to it."

"Ohh," his mother winces, then addresses Jeongguk. "Keep this one away from Jeongmin."

You also turn behind you now, raising a brow. He's just rolling his eyes, a soft smile on his lips.

"Samsung Lions - and their fans - are the scum of the earth in Jeongmin's eyes," he explains, then looks over to his mum. "Is he coming to dinner? Do we need to sit them at opposite ends of the table?"

Shaking her head, she laughs. "No, he's got plans, apparently. I did tell him you were visiting, but you know what he's like."

Jeongguk just sort of accepts this answer. Nods. Shrugs his shoulders, as if it's to be expected. An air of disappointment clouds around Jeongguk, lips pursed, eyes stern.

He and his brother are cut from the same cloth, but have been sewn together with different stitches. For all their similarities, they have stark differences, too. This one has always been the most challenging for Jeongguk; how little his brother seems to care about maintaining a good relationship.

Jeongmin seems to think their status as brothers is enough to keep the bond strong. Doesn't seem to care about fostering an actual friendship with him.

It's part of the reason why Jeongguk is so reluctant to let go of friendships that no longer serve him. They're filling a void. He never wants to be the one who gives up. Doesn't wanna be the reason things fall apart.

"Alright," Jeongguk's mother smiles at you both. "Ready to go?"

It surprises you that she's the one driving to dinner instead of Jeongguk - but it makes sense, given the fact you and Jeongguk will stay in the area afterwards.

She insists that you sit up front, even if all forms of hierarchy would dictate that Jeongguk should be there instead. He doesn't complain. Sort of likes how you and his mum are ganging up on him like a little team.

When you arrive at the samgyeopsal place, his father is already waiting.

He's everything you expect him to be: funny, a little dramatic, and the spitting image of Jeongguk, just with a few more grey hairs and even deeper creases beneath his eyes. Introduces himself with as much gusto as a cartoon character; full of life and pleased to have another person to relay all of Minhyuk's misdemeanours to.

You learn more about the Busan Driving Range circuit than you ever could have predicted - specifically about Minhyuk, the legitimacy of his 'bargain' driver, and how Jeongguk's father is convinced he's been tampering with his balls.

Jeongguk chokes on his drink when his dad mentions that last point. Earns himself a talking to for thinking with such a dirty mind - but after a few drinks, his parents are giggling about it, too.

There's something incredibly easy about being around Jeongguk's parents. It's no wonder he's grown into the person he is.

You feel a little shy. Don't understand the in-jokes at first - but someone always explains them to you. Normally Jeongguk, but sometimes his mother. Never his father, 'cause he'll go on a twenty minute long tangent explaining the lore and the back story. They've learnt this the hard way.

Still, he's a dab hand when it comes to grilling the meat. Takes charge of it all. Plates his wife up first, always. You second, Jeongguk third, and then himself. Head of the house, he takes his place in the hierarchy seriously, but not at the expense of the ones he loves. Will make sure they're provided for first.

Jeongguk is much the same. In charge of refilling the soju and beer, he'll pour for his father first, then mother, then you. Puts the bottle down before he fills his own, which is when you step up and fill his glass. He'll nudge with you his knee beneath the table to make you wobble, but never enough to make you spill it.

Subscribing to drinking norms is something that you never really do with Jeongguk. He's a bartender, after all. Things are always a little unconventional. He's normally the one making you drinks and sorting himself out, too.

Something about this feels incredibly domesticated. Natural. Pleasant.

By the time dinner is done, Jeongguk's parents have to order a taxi. Had a little too much to drink- but you're bloody glad for it. Made it a lot easier for you.

"Your parents are fun," you beam, walking down the promenade of Gwangalli with Jeongguk. It's your favourite of all the busy beaches in the city, but you rarely ever get the chance to see it after dark. There'll be a drone show, soon. You've definitely never seen that. Can't wait for it.

"They sure are something," he laughs, a little embarrassed. They have big personalities, which he's glad of, but he knows they can be a bit much sometimes. "Dad drinks well, so we probably had a bit more than we should have done. Sorry."

Shaking your head, you don't mind in the slightest. Are at that giddy stage of drinking, where everything seems marvellous, and bad decisions cosplay as good choices.

"Are you forgetting how we met? I don't mind having one too many, Gguk."

"True," he agrees, checking the time on his phone. Still a good half an hour before the small show. It's just a free thing that the city council puts on every night, not a huge deal to him anymore, but he understands why people romanticise it. Knows that you have to see it.

Tugging on your hand, Jeongguk checks the road before he crosses, dragging you along with him.

"Hm?" You squeak, taken by surprise. A little tipsy, your reflexes aren't as fast as usual, just like tipsy Jeongguk isn't as good at voicing his thought processes as sober Jeongguk usually is.

"Photos," he simply states, leading you into a small retail unit that houses only photo booths.

It's the standard set-up: wall partitions between self-timer camera units, and curtains instead of doors to the small spaces. Each booth has a different colour background, adding to their own individual charms. The walls of the entryway are lined in discarded pictures; friendship groups, couples, first dates, anniversaries, birthdays. Life events, big and small. Moments of time captured to last forever.

Accessories and props are abundant in the entry area - hats, glasses, wigs, signs. Your favourites are always the headbands. Kitty ears, normally, though sometimes you branch out into bunny ears if you're feeling fancy.

There are five booths in total along the back wall, but one in particular grabs your attention: the one advertising Sanrio-themed frames instead of the standard solid colour outline.

"Oh my god," you gasp, and then it's Jeongguk's turn to squeak with confusion. You point to it. Specifically, to the My Melody and Kuromi figures by the bottom of the ad. "It's us."

He smiles. Doesn't really understand your hyper fixation. Agrees nonetheless. "It is us."

The pair of you goof around, picking props. Jeongguk learns that you find him in any sort of animal ears absolutely hilarious, but the second he puts on a yacht captain's hat?

"Take that off right this second," you tell him, voice stern, eyes wide.

He's bemused. Snorts a little. Teeth on show, he's dangerously pretty. So handsome and yet such a little shit. "Why? Like it?"

You turn your nose up. "Hate it."

"I know you're lying," he laughs. Tilts it down. "Is this getting you all hot, B?"

"I'm leaving," you say, because it's so much easier than saying yes.

Something about him in a white shirt, with that hat? White with a navy peak, gold embroidery on the sides? God, you see why the old money girlies like boatmen so much. Decide that you're never getting on a boat with Jeongguk if you want to retain your sanity.

He takes it off. You don't even realise it, but you pout.

"You're so confusing, Byeol," he says as he playfully puts it on your head - and then he's feeling all fucked up too.

Something about a captain's hat. Just really does the trick.

You've both had too much to drink. There's no reason for you both to be getting flustered because of a stupid hat and yet -

"I don't think we should ever touch hats again," Jeongguk says very quickly.

But then you put a pair of kitty ears on and he starts questioning whether or not furries are actually kinda onto something.

He furrows his brows. Picks up a pair of ears. Bunny ones. Black. They're satin and a little too sexy, he thinks, but he's gotta see himself in them.

And when he does?

He kinda gets why girls dress up like cute animals for fancy dress parties. Doesn't wanna blow his own trumpet - but shit. He does look cute.

"Oh my god, YES," you exclaim when you clock his new attire, and quite literally drag him to the booth. He gets no say in the matter, and honestly doesn't care. Is having too much fun with you to take any of this seriously.

You pick the Sanrio framed booth, because of course you do. Jeongguk pops his card in the slot, and lets you click through on the options that you want - 4cut, vertical frame. The classic style. Your favourite.

Turning to Jeongguk, you tweak his glasses a little. Can't decide if they look better hiked up, or further down his perfectly sloped nose.

All Jeongguk can think about is your nose, and much he wants to nudge his up against yours.

And so he does just that.

Doesn't give a fuck.

The camera flashes.

You're caught, forevermore, in your state of Jeongguk-induced hypnosis. The pictures will survive beyond you. Will be stored in boxes to be looked at once, maybe twice by future generations.

One day, no one will know the name of you nor the boy you're with. They won't know how the scent of his aftershave lingers, nor the way your soft exhale of air sounds as you smile. Your present will be lost to history, this photograph? Your legacy.

Nothing will be known of you, and yet this picture alone will tell them everything they need to know.

"We're gonna waste shots," you whisper. The booth takes six photos, but you'll only be allowed to choose four for the printed picture at the end.

The more to choose from, the better.

"So?" Jeongguk smirks. Holds your neck just beneath your jaw. Strokes across your cheek with his thumb. Looks at you with sparkly eyes and a boyish smile that is just begging to be kissed. "Don't you wanna see what it looks like when we kiss?"

"It's intimate," you remind him.

"Maybe - but it's also fun," he reminds you.

The camera flashes again. That's two shots wasted, now.

If you let this carry on, it'll be three, and then one of them will have to be used in the final print.

And yet as Jeongguk nudges against your nose a little deeper, you let him.

When his lips ghost yours, you let him.

When his lips press down, you let him.

You'll let the third photo be taken, because you'll be too busy kissing him back to pay attention.

The fourth, too.

Lips on yours, Jeongguk kisses you in a way that he hasn't done before. It's delicate, and gentle, but his lips are strong. Intentional. There's no intrusion of tongue, no fervent need to get you moaning, even though it feels like you will regardless.

Your brain screams at you. Something about rules, and breaking them.

You ignore it.

'Cause all you can think about is the way this feels.

You don't think you've ever had a kiss like it.

And it's terrifying.

It's not until the fifth shot flashes that you both pull away; smiles smitten, eyes glossy. Both of you felt that. Ain't no way he couldn't have.

You think that maybe that's even more terrifying.

And so for the sixth shot?

Both of you pretend to throw up, disgust plaguing your giggly smiles and blushed cheeks.

There's distance between you, but as soon as the camera flashes, Jeongguk is pulling you back to his side again. It's just so that you're both ready to look through the pictures that are about to pop up on the little touchscreen. He's being helpful. Glances down at you, and has to stop himself from pressing a kiss into your hair.

Things are just so easy with you.

As soon as the pictures load, you're laughing. "We have to retake these."

"No, no, no," he swats your hand away, then taps on one of the photos, adding it to the preview frame. "My jaw looks really good in this one."

It's shot number four. Mid kiss. His hands on your cheeks, yours out of frame because they were on his waist. His jaw really does look fantastic - but it's sort of devastating when you realise just how happy he looks. He's smiling into the kiss. The most devastating thing of all?

So are you.

"How is that even us," you giggle. Seems so bizarre to see yourself like this.

"Gross isn't it," he smiles, adding more of the pictures to the frame, but you're the one correcting him now, tapping his hand to move him out of your way.

"We need them in order," you say. "A chain of events."

Eventually, the order is settled: the nudging of noses, the innocence of a kiss with the sin of Jeongguk's sharp jaw, the slightly startled look in both of your eyes as you'd pulled away, and then, of course, both of you pretending to vomit.

As they print, you pick out props for the next set of photos - Jeongguk in a pair of purple heart-shaped glasses and a Kuromi headband, you in that damn sailor's hat - and discuss which poses to actually do. This time round, it's all peace signs and finger hearts; goofy angles too close to the camera and a little laughter to set the tone.

"C'mon," Jeongguk says softly as you finish sliding the pictures into the thin plastic sleeves next to the booths. He normally doesn't bother with them. Likes that you seem to care about preserving the integrity of your memories. Hand outstretched, he encourages you to take it.

"Your bird," he says. "Said we'd do it in Busan."

The look you give him is coy, eyes a little sultry, lips a little pouty.

When you're silent, Jeongguk laughs. "Hold my hand, B."

"Getting a little date-like, don't you think?" You say of the night, but Jeongguk just shrugs.

"So? We'll just call it practise."

"Mhhm," he nods, shaking his hand a little because you still haven't held it. He's impatient. It's only as you take his hand that he begins talking again. "You don't wanna go back into the dating world unprepared. What if Mr Mechanical Engineer tries to hold your hand without you being ready for it?" He squeezes your hand, leading you out the door. "Let's get you used to it."

The mention of Seojoon makes you feel guilty. About him? About Jeongguk? You're not sure. It's something you need to figure out. Something you need to figure out fast .

And yet as Jeongguk holds both yours and his shoes in one hand, your hand firmly secured in the other, you choose not to think about it.

Just think of the sand, and how it will be a bitch to get out of your tights. It's sort of like your glitter, in a way.

But just like Jeongguk wouldn't trade your glitter for anything, you wouldn't trade this moment for anything either.

Neither of you say much. Just listen to the waves rolling in. Listen to other people's conversations. Listen to the whir of the drones as they start up and get into position. The show begins. Won't last longer than ten minutes. The silence is comfortable.

He holds your hand, and you move them to your lap in a bid to keep them warm.

Jeongguk isn't really feeling the cold. His heart is simply burning too brightly.

"I'm really glad you're here," he says as the show draws to a close.

"Me too," you whisper back fondly. "It must be nice to be home."

"Well, you know they say," he muses. "Home is where the heart is, and all that."

Been at home for months, B.

You breathe through your nose, exhaling a sincere smile. Could say a million things. Could say nothing at all. Could ask what he means, but you're taking it at face value. Genuinely think he's just happy to be home.

"We should visit more often," you suggest.

"I'd like that," he nods as he squeezes your hand. "You wanna go explore the night markets?"

Grinning, you get to your feet immediately. "Thought you'd never ask."

Jeongguk leads the way. Shows you his old haunts. Gets you hotteok from his favourite stand down by the promenade. Shows you the arcade machine he once spunked away 50,000 won on and didn't even win a prize. Shows you the initials he and Jimin caved into a pavement curb fourteen years ago. Took them hours. Both got blisters. Worth it though. They're embedded in the city, forevermore.

He takes you down memory lane, and you find it's your favourite street to visit with Jeongguk. You love his history; learning what shaped him. Who shaped him. Where.

Not once does Jeongguk let go of your hand.

Not down the markets, not along the beach, not in the taxi home, even when he doses off for a moment, head resting on your shoulder.

Not once. Not until you're both home, and he's saying goodnight outside of his brother's bedroom door. He's still toying with your fingers. Isn't even gonna suggest the idea of doing things you know you shouldn't.

Doesn't wanna taint the night.

In the morning, he'll blame all of his bad decisions on the alcohol. Will say he was tipsy, even though you stopped drinking hours ago.

He hugs you goodnight. Lingers a little too long. Too close. Nudges his nose against yours. Brushes his thumb against your cheek.

"This..." he whispers. "This is what it should be like."

His jaw tenses. He holds himself back from pressing his lips against yours like he so desperately wants to. Knows he's already said too much. Pulls himself away from you, to press a kiss against your forehead.

His lip ring is so hard, and his lips so soft, that it makes you feel all sorts of fucked up.

The most fucked up thing of all?

How badly you want his lips on yours.

But then he fucking walks away .

Closes his door. Shuts you out.

The evening had been so simple. So straightforward. Casual. Nothing confusing in the slightest. You were happy. So was he.

And yet as you lie in bed, all that rattles around in your head for hours on end is the question: what the fuck is happening to us?

AO3 | MASTERLIST | MINORS DNI

[plinko-mori]

My favourite work from Rintarou Mori was Vita Sexualis. Now (since a long time ago lol) it is Moso <3 in Spanish it is translated as «Ilusiones» that literally means «Illusions» and in some contexts it can mean «Fantasies» I don't know how the work is called officially in English though I'm so sorry

So for everyone to have context about why Mori wrote it, there was this opinion that Rintarou hated and it said something like: ”Japan is a backward, poor and dirty county, plagued by diseases and dominated by barbaric customs, which indiscriminately imported Western customs and techniqued that weakened it, and whose esteemed culture was devastated by the Japanese themselves“. And Rintarou Mori, an author known for not knowing when to shut up, not because he spoke too much, but because when he sees something that he doesn't like, he speaks so freely about it and Natsume knows about it lol

In this short work from 1911, Mori explains his reasons of why that statement is absolutely incorrect, and there's a quote that I love a lot"

“From the time I was born until today, what have I done. I study relentlessly as if someone is whipping me, whipping me constantly. I think I do it to develop myself, to be able to fulfil a task. Maybe a part of this goal can be fulfilled. But it seems to me that what I do is nothing more than playing, like an actor, a role on stage. I feel that beyond the role I play, there must be something more. I feel that I am constantly being whipped and stimulated, so that I have no time to let go. The child who studies, the young man who studies, the civil servant who studies, they all play a role. One day I'll wash my face painted in red and black and get off the stage. I wish to think of myself calmly and see how it is something behind. With these thoughts I continue to play role after role, while the stage manager whips my back. I am sure that this performance is not life. I sense that the something that is behind me is nodding off again and falling asleep. Lately I feel nostalgic for my people; I am like the grasses that float and move with the waves in the distance and continue their undulating movement, and sometimes with the shaking they tremble to the roots, and this does not correspond to the role I play on stage. But this feeling, as soon as I raise my head, is erased”

Mori you wanted to defend your idea why were you doing a conclusion of you being a slave of your own thoughts, reputation and the standards with what people (specially your parents) expected from you also WHY IS THAT SO RELATABLE

The author is so human, traumatized and very much autistic, but it's so realistic and relatable... I don't know if I have analyzed the quote here before, if I have done it I'm so sorry 😭

Anyway Mori and samurais were topics extremely connected. His mother was a descendant of samurais, black is a colour associated with them and to weddings, being seen as a masculine colour in Japan. On the other hand, red in Japan is associated with peace, prosperity of family and even justice only in Kabuki Theater performances!

Kabuki is a genre of traditional Japanese theater, dating all the way back to the Edo Period (1603-1867)

The quote I shared is like less than 4 pages to the end of the work. It helps for reflexion and is one of the few times that the author opens his heart to the reader, where he shares things, but he's doing his maximum effor to show that Japanese and his people aren't weak... Although, it's almost obvious (at least for me) that deep in the inside he's not as strong as he claims to be, he can also be vulnerable, but he can't go back anymore because he already started walking that way to being an author, a doctor, a strong person that not only people hated but even felt afraid of Mori!

Unlike Vita Sexualis, Ilusiones is not a semi-autobiography, it's not a novel or a long book... But it's so deep, so emotional in some parts that at least I felt connected to the author when I read it. Mori's purpose is for you to think like him, to see his point, and he knows how to make sense to people that it can be shocking reading his works

Do you see any of this in BSD? I do. But what about you all?

[galene-gothic]

ATTENTION

✎ . . ⇢ ˗ˏˋ Hii snowies !! This is a post valentine's day present for you because I love you ! I hope this reading found you in good health, every reblog is appreciated and thank you for everything :)˖♡ ˎˊ˗ ꒰ 🎧 ꒱

☆ 🖇️ 𖥻 ＜꒱                PAID SERVICES

Today we'll take a look at:

- who wants to be your valentine

- what about you catches people's attention

- something that needs your urgent attention

˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ Pile 1

꒰ Who wanted to be your valentine ? ꒱

↳ “ There are two energies coming off very strongly. One of them is someone from the past. I also feel like most of you here are disappointed that your ex or former situationship came up in this reading. This person is not in the best place right now but compared to before, they're doing better. I'm pretty sure that you've seen this person down in the dumps though. I'm getting that they're starting to look at you and everything that went down between the both of you as something to be grateful for and they're finally starting to heal. For a very long time, they felt trapped by the amount of affection they felt towards you. They have a lot of regrets when it comes to you but they are finally starting to accept that it's the best for the both of you to stay away from each other, atleast for right now but they do want to be your valentine, I'm getting that they want to spend one last day with you smiling, having fun, saying what the both of you left unsaid, crying, just exchanging emotions and energy. You are like home to them, found family honestly. When you rationally think of them, you might think that they've already found happiness in new things but the truth is they haven't, they are starting to though. I think this person from the past is someone pretty strategic and also overall a very nice person. They might have a soft and warm aura. Now, moving on to the next person, this person is someone new but they have gotten hurt in the past. I'm getting a very nostalgic vibe though. I think when you met them, you felt like you had known them forever, I'm getting a sense of deep adoration right from day one. The both of you might have met in an environment where you used to be around each other everyday or something but for some reason, the both of you aren't in the same environment anymore or won't be soon :(. Playful teasing, feeling comforted and familiar yet uncomfortable when the other is in your sight, looking for the other while pretending to look around/at something else, wondering why you adore the other so much even though you barely know them.

You might have had atleast one deep conversation with them. There was an undertone of depth/sexual tension whenever the both of you were around each other. I am getting very high school movie/drama like scenarios here. For some of you, you might still meet this person everyday but won't very soon. There's something that the both of you want to tell the other, you want to express affection but you can't gather the courage to do so when you actually see each other. The both of you still manage to feel adored by the other though. The way the both of you express affection is just very different, you might roast each other. Compared to the past person, this person is way more mysterious though and their energy might be more dominating and authoritative rather than soft and warm. They seem to be nice too though. I feel like they care about humans in general and come off pretty social. However, they might also be on a pedestal of some kind, I'm getting unattainable and intimidating vibes from them even though they seem to have a friendly personality. If the both of you aren't in contact anymore, they are definitely thinking about you, even though they seem to be the type who likes to live a busy life, you're always in their mind. The last time the both of you met each other, you might have wanted to express something that you left unsaid because you couldn't catch the right moment to say what you wanted to say. The both of you might act like you don't like each other, I'm getting that the feelings here are mutual though. I don't think that you want the past person back in your life but you might still be healing from them or you took a lot of time healing from them. The new person and you might have chosen to let go of each other because you know that you still have to do your individual healing, however, the adoration and what could have been is still present, they miss you a lot. ”

꒰ What about you catches people's attention ? ꒱

↳ “ I'm getting that people close to you or people who get to know you well to a certain extent are the ones to notice this the most, you're a very self reflective person. At first sight, if you're alone, you might look reserved and cold but when you interact with others, you seem very friendly and maybe even a little self obsessed, flashy and loud but the more people talk to you the more introspective you seem. People can pick up on the fact that you're very wise. You might sometimes randomly choose to sit alone and think about life even though your friends are having fun. You might give off a sad vibe or have a resting bitch and sad face. People can sense that you're in your self care phase and don't really want to connect with people because you're very busy looking within. People think that you are understanding. You seem to be on the path of self discovery or reinvention. You seem to randomly self isolate. I think that you're fine with socializing but aren't interested in letting people into your close circle atleast for right now. I'm also getting that people think that you are the type to abandon people but still choose to trust you anyway because you're overall very loving and understanding, you just need more space and distance compared to others especially at this time.

People think that you're a very internal person, someone who looks within and wants to be left alone at times. No matter how friendly you are or how often you get angry, you always have an air of mystery or detachment surrounding you. Some of you might come off very warm, childlike, fun and happy when interacting with people for the first few days or when you're socializing in general but as people get to know you, if you trust them enough to share your thoughts with them, they realise that you're so much deeper than they had thought of you to be and even if you don't trust them, they start realizing that the cold and reserved aura that they got from you wasn't just a cover. People see that you know your worth or atleast they think you do. They think that you believe that the grass is always going to be greener for you if you choose to leave a person, place or situation behind. They think that the grass is always greener for you in comparison to them as well. They think that you have options. You definitely come off to be the type to suddenly leave though, it's coming up again and again. You're good at working with others though. People think that you know a lot of influential people and are always planning something. ”

꒰ What needs your urgent attention ? ꒱

↳ “ You guys are really courageous people but I'm getting that you're prone to entering situations that are unhealthy for you. I think most of you have already realised that just because you're capable enough to grow from toxic situations doesn't mean you deserve to experience them. You guys seem pretty defensive at this point, you are having a hard time letting people in and are also choosing not to. You're finally going for your own happiness. However, some of you haven't let go of whatever this is that you're clinging onto, I think it might be a one sided crush for most of you but at this point, this crush has gotten so bad that you don't know how to get out of it, if you haven't already walked out to choose your own happiness, you really need to. Some of you have people pleasing tendencies but also a strong desire for self expression, the thing is, not everyone shares the same beliefs as you so you might end up saying things that you don't mean thinking that that's what the other person might want to hear and because of your strong need for self expression, you feel really bad after you say something that doesn't align with your own personal beliefs. For some of you, you are being too defensive to your own detriment. I feel like this pile has been through a lot so I don't blame you, it's okay to stay in this energy for a while but please understand that it's going to get unhealthy at some point and when it gets unhealthy, I hope that you have enough courage to let your guard down. You have a lot of love coming towards you, I don't want you to end up self sabotaging. I think the reason why the defensiveness is especially unhealthy for you is because you are not being able to give out affection and what you have got to offer to other people.

Even if you don't acknowledge it, giving to others, forming relationships, loving someone, having someone who loves you is what makes you the happiest. I think you're very self dependent right now and I'm really proud of you. I think that being picky with people is important for you right now but there's a difference between being picky and being straight out defensive. I'm pretty sure, you guys have gone through enough to understand what's healthy and what's not and I think I'm just reaffirming things that you already know/ want to work towards. Most of you here feel robbed of your affection and resources, you feel drained out, you feel used and you might feel like you've got nothing left to give at this point but I'm getting that deep down, you know that you have a lot to give and you're just protecting what you've got to give it to someone worthy. Please don't be so hard on yourself, you don't deserve to be so hard on yourself. Also, some of you might get offended here but there's a need to learn how to behave, carry yourself with more dignity, please learn when to talk, when to laugh, etc. I think some of you have forgotten how to behave in front of people because you've spent a lot of time by yourself or in one-on-one situations but you're definitely someone who already knows how to carry themself to a certain extent, you might end up laughing a lot with your friends in places where you shouldn't be because you want to have a friendly image, you're already doing great, just need a little more refinement. Also, please don't lose your warmth and generosity because of people who have hurt you. I'm getting that most of you have already realised the things that I'm telling you, this is just confirmation. ”

˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ Pile 2

꒰ Who wanted to be your valentine ? ꒱

↳ “ This person is very successful. You see them as someone very fulfilled and as someone who wants to live their life to the fullest. You might feel sleepy around this person because you just feel so comfortable. They make you feel like you belong, they make you feel included. This is a new person though. It was fated for the both of you to meet. The both of you seem to be grateful to have ever come across each other. The both of you are very different yet very similar. I'd ship you guys if I was around you. The both of you might have split already. I'm getting a very short yet fated meeting. It's something like the both of you were in a group project for a month but don't talk to each other now that the project has ended, even though you both seem to miss each other. This person helped you be more at peace with yourself. I'm getting that just like pile 1, you both let go of each other because you know that you have your own individual healing to do. You both want to see each other but at the same time never see each other again. I'm getting that adoration towards the other came very naturally and a bit too fast. "Why do I care about her even though I barely know her? Why do my eyes look for her in a room full of people even though I don't like her?"

You both feel comforted and happy when the other is around you even if the both of you don't interact. They're mature and compassionate person. They're empathetic towards you and are soft only for you. They feel really affectionate towards you and probably show it too. It's funny because just like pile 1, the both of you seem to roast each other. They're very controlled over their emotions though. You aren't able to figure out if they like you or are just being themself but you feel adored by them either way. They know how to keep their emotions to themself when they want to. They might sometimes try to act non-chalant in front of you and vice versa. I think that the both of you are sure that the other person likes you back but you're also sure that they don't, if you know what I mean. This person has a lot of social intelligence, they are really friendly in general but know when to behave more serious and responsible. One way to recognise this person is that they are really hot when they're angry or serious. They are a warm person in general but sometimes you both end up acting cold towards the other because you both like each other. You guys feel like you've known each other for years. Also, they adore you more than you adore them!! Some of you might have been attracted to pile 1. ”

꒰ What about you catches people's attention ? ꒱

↳ “ People think that you're lucky or privileged in some way. I literally heard 'god's favourite'. People from the past can see that you've changed a lot and people in general can notice that you're going through changes. You know how to connect with people on a soul level. People think that you have a lot of fated connections around you. People think that you are moving towards a better life than the one you're already living. People think that you've learnt a lot of valuable life lessons. They think that you've released control and stopped worrying as much. People think that you're very independent, it doesn't even have to be materially/financially, it can just be in terms of your thoughts and values. You might be a little rebellious too. People can see that you're very self sufficient. I'm also getting that you're able to be grateful for all experiences, negative and positive, regardless of how much it might have pissed you off.

You can come off kinda flashy though. Compared to before, you might be richer, look richer or dress in a more expensive manner. People believe that you've got more than enough for yourself. You might spend a lot of money, maybe even in front of people. You should try to be a little more stingy with money. People think that you're happy. I think this is the perception of people who don't know you very well but even if you know people well, you still like to act like you're having fun or end up acting that way. You help people with their healing. You help people feel relieved and more at peace with yourself. You come off as someone who's been through a lot but is doing well now. You help others move forward and show a lot of empathy towards them, strategize what's the best for them and make sure that they're protected. You seem to be really visually pleasing or into aesthetics, maybe you like buying new and pretty things and talk about it. ”

꒰ What needs your urgent attention ? ꒱

↳ “ You should control your spending. You should also drink more water throughout the day and not chug down gallons of water before bed. Try to live a productive life if you aren't already. Not skipping meals is important for you. Health in general seems to be the theme here. I'm getting that there's a need to strengthen your immune system right now. Also, I'm getting that some of you are already working on creating a better life for yourself and you might be starting by working on your mindset. Some of you might come from a small town where it's difficult to find the resources to follow your passions. I'm also getting that you guys are actually extremely ambitious, you might be resting for a while now though, if not, you should, rest is productive.

However, if you've been resting, it's time to start working again. Forming healthy habits is important for you. You care a lot about material abundance, if you're not feeling good about yourself, work on making, spending and saving up money. You're a wealthy person even if you don't have money, you have a wealth that not many people possess, you're abundant in character and are self aware. You should definitely focus on long term financial stability and security, it keeps on coming up again and again. Spending time in the countryside is going to be really beneficial for you. I'm not getting much here honestly but I think you have a weird mindset regarding money, maybe you're like 'I deserve to spend this money' and end up spending too much but still deep within have a lack mentality regarding money and are always worried about money. ”

˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚ Pile 3

꒰ Who wanted to be your valentine ? ꒱

↳ “ They have a very big energy. They stand out and have a very strong personal character. They're also very generous and affectionate. I'm getting that they come off very warm. You might like their hair. They are also a very responsible and reliable person. They are super hot when they get mad. They are tolerant and show affection in really big and also really little ways. You see them as someone with a lot of energy. You might feel really jittery and giggly around them. You seem to like them back. There's a weird romance going on between the both of you. Really exciting feelings. You think that they're trustworthy and hold a lot of loving intentions towards them. You see them as a charming and romantic person. I just heard 'written by a woman'. You are just enjoying what's going on between the both of you without trying to force or create anything for the future. You might think that they're not ready for commitment, atleast for right now. You both seem really curious about each other. You want to know how the other thinks, their beliefs, likes and dislikes, etc. You kinda see them as a muse? For them, they don't want to share you with anyone. This person doesn't let people get close to them very easily, very big and warm hearted but you're one of the few people they hold really close to their heart. They're kind of possessive of you and want you all to themself. They're afraid of losing you. I'm getting that you're someone they really want to keep in their life. However, I'm also getting that they're still kind of guarded.

I think it's the same for you, the both of you seem to have an understanding that you need to heal yourselves and be ready before getting involved with anyone right now. Both parties here seem very mature. You both don't want to share your energy with anyone and even if you want to, you know that you aren't ready so I'm getting a mutual understanding. You're also their muse. They feel like they're living in a romance novel, thanks to you. They think that you're really beautiful in every aspect. You both idealize the other to a healthy extent. You both are faithful towards each other. You both inspire each other and connect on an emotional, mental and spiritual level. There's an almost telepathic connection present here. They find you really graceful and there's a warmth present between the both of you. The both of you seem to be sensitive towards the other's emotions. You know them from a homely environment, maybe your school or workplace if you love the people in there and the atmosphere is homely. I'm getting an educational/professional place that is like a second home. You met somewhere where you have to behave well and follow set rules but there's still a homely atmosphere. You might know them from school, church, university or hospital too though. Every moment you spend together is a special occasion to the both of you. There's a healthy and happy energy surrounding the both of you. You help each other grow and love yourselves even more. You make each other love life. ”

꒰ What about you catches people's attention ? ꒱

↳ “ You seem really happy to people. You seem to have a good life. You seem like the type to vibe through life. Things always seem to work for you. People assume that you have a lot of options and abandon people or situations when you feel like things aren't working anymore. People think that you have plans for the future. You're always progressing in some way, improving and getting better. You come off kinda detached to people. You seem to be a controlled individual who has a lot of control over their own life. People think that you know the secret to living a happy life. People see that you have a lot of people who love you. You have friends who adore you. You are a popular person who seems to be having fun. People think that you're lucky. People might want to be you or live your life. People also notice that you effortlessly steal everyone's attention. Many people want to be friends with you, everyone seems to want a piece of your energy. You might have a really detached or even cold vibe but your facial features might be cuter and warmer but they combine and harmonize together to form a more calm/tired/bored/innocent/bitchy looking face.

When you interact with someone for the first time, you might end up acting like a people's pleaser and charming people's pants off but choose to give people the same energy that they give you as you get to know them. You start becoming warmer/colder as people get to know you, depending on who it is. People feel excited and ecstatic around you. You come off so childlike, sweet and cute, people cannot even say 'no' to you. At the same time, you have a side to you that is mature, detached, cold, stimulating and wise. Some of you might look/have a sweet and young image and people might assume that you don't know much but when they have one-on-one conversations with you, you just leave them so mentally stimulated and wanting more of your mind. Your thoughts, ideas, visuals, values and energy are all very captivating. People might assume that you're a mean girl at first sight but you end up acting really friendly, atleast at the first few meetings. You also seem really sassy at times. You show memeable reactions and facial expressions at times. You kind of remind me of Yumeko Jabami from Kakegurui. You're so much more intelligent than people give you credit for. You're the type who'll always be loved no matter where you go. ”

꒰ What needs your urgent attention ? ꒱

↳ “ You're way more powerful, attractive and influential than you realise. I think you're already pretty confident but you should try to do things that make you feel even more confident. Soon, you'll be feeling very positive and happy. You're on your way to feel even more content. You might get invited to meet someone/a group of people who you've made a lot of memories with, maybe a school reunion. You seem to be girlfriend/boyfriend/partner material. You have a very domestic charm. "That's my girl/man." Is coming through. There's a lot of potential to get to make friends and even get into a romantic relationship. You should continue working towards your desires. I think you have recently shifted your attitude from wanting things to turn out a certain way, you focus on self fulfillment and what's good for you instead. Like, for example, you start growing affection for someone, instead of thinking 'I really hope I end up with them' you're starting to think 'I want to and deserve to be happy.'

You still don't have a selfish attitude though, you have a loving attitude towards everyone and wish that the other person is happy too. You try not to do things that affect other people negatively. This is my favourite pile, I look up to you guys. You never let people change who you are, a kind and loving being. You understand the difference between being selfish to protect yourself and being selfish at the expense of others. There's a lot of love coming towards you. I'm getting that mastering how you manage money is going to be even more helpful for you. You've been through a lot, it's obvious that you have a complex past and personality. It's also obvious that you deserve all the good things that you receive and will receive. I'm so proud of you. I think you're starting to be much more long term happiness focused than short term excitement focused. You still have a fun loving side to you though. I'm getting that you also really care about security and comfort in all forms. I'm really excited for you. I wish you nothing but the best !! ”

[aishangotome]

Ellis Twilight: Chapter 12

Chapter 11

I gazed blankly at the scenery for a while, watching the fiery sun sink below the silhouette of the cityscape.

(What a beautiful twilight...)

I wished we could watch this scenery together forever, but with every blink of my eyes, the sky shifted to the colors of night.

Kate: ...But, I suppose we should head back soon.

(The day flew by.)

It felt like the peaceful, gentle, happy time was melting away into the night.

(It makes me a little sad...)

Ellis: We don't have to go back.

Kate: Huh...?

I was startled, wondering if he had read my mind.

Ellis: I'll take you wherever you want to go.

Ellis: Anywhere. Until you're at your happiest.

(Anywhere... until I'm at my happiest.)

His words sounded sweeter and more seductive than usual.

Ellis: Hey, Kate. How happy are you right now?

Kate: ...Very.

Kate: I'm happier than I've ever been.

(Because Ellis is being so kind to me.)

I couldn't find any other words to express it besides "happy."

He gently narrowed his eyes as he heard my answer.

Ellis: ...I see.

Ellis: So, shall we end it here?

(End it...? )

(Does he mean go home for today... right?)

While I was still trying to gauge his meaning, Ellis's arms wrapped around me from behind, embracing me along with the wheelchair.

(Ellis?)

My heart was pounding, yet for some reason, I also felt uneasy... As the approaching darkness made me anxious, I placed my hand over his arm that was around me.

Kate: Yes... I think we should end it here for today.

Ellis: ...Today?

I looked back at his twilight-colored eyes, which held a curious glint.

Kate: I'm able to stay positive despite this injury, all thanks to you, Ellis.

Kate: So... I'd like you to bring me here again tomorrow.

After a short silence, Ellis gently let go of me.

Ellis: ...Tomorrow... again.

Kate: Yes. Today's walk made me incredibly happy, so... I want to do it again.

Ellis: ............

I couldn't understand why Ellis was making such a strange face.

It's like this –– you only realize there were many moments when the gears didn't quite mesh... usually when everything is already over.

At that moment, all I felt was a slight sense of discomfort––.

Kate: Today was nice, but it might be fun to slowly go up and down that slope.

Kate: Once I can handle the wheelchair, I want to see how far I can go up on my own.

Ellis: ...You want to climb that hill yourself, Kate?

Kate: Yeah. Think it's impossible?

Ellis: ...Maybe.

A soft, breathy sigh, like a gentle breeze, escaped his lips.

Ellis: In that case...

Ellis: I think I'll watch from behind, ready to catch you if you lose your strength and slip halfway.

Kate: Hehe, I'll be counting on you.

Ellis: So, shall we head back now?

(He already asked if we should "end it here"... Why is he asking the same question again?)

Puzzled, I leaned my cheek against Ellis's arm, which was still wrapped around me from behind.

Kate: ...Yeah. Happy times melt away in an instant, but...

Kate: I'm looking forward to spending tomorrow with you, Ellis, so I'm sure tomorrow will be even happier.

Kate: So, today is enough for me.

Ellis: ...I see.

Ellis's voice, coming from slightly behind me as I sat in the wheelchair, sounded—

just a little bit—relieved, and happy.

--(Ellis's POV)--

*a dream*

––It was a beautifully clear day.

You were laughing innocently as we ran around the fields together, something we hadn't done in a while.

As the sky began to be dyed with the pale purple hues of twilight, you said:

––"Right now, I'm the happiest I've ever been."

That moment, neither the end of day nor the beginning of night.

This moment, right now, is perfect, complete; there's no need for a future.

I truly felt the same way.

Because happiness is like the twilight sky, its colors quickly changing.

––"So, let's end it now."

*dream over*

My eyes flew open.

The morning sun, streaming through the window, danced in my eyes.

Ellis: ...........

(I feel like I was having a nostalgic dream.)

But it was completely erased by the pure white morning light.

Several days had passed since Kate's injury.

Ellis: Hmm...

I stretched in bed and placed my bare feet on the floor.

Getting ready, then going to Kate's room to see if she was awake, and discussing breakfast plans had become my daily routine.

Ellis: ...Ah.

As I put on my necklace, I suddenly remembered Kate mentioning that the bracelet I gave her resembled the one I wear.

(I was surprised because I hadn't been aware of it at all.)

(But... since then, she wears the bracelet whenever we go out.)

(Does she like it?)

(...If so, I'm happy.)

When Kate is happy, I'm happy too.

Even before, seeing someone in front of me smile, whoever they were, made me happy.

But––this "happy" feels different somehow.

I want to make her happy.

I want to see her smile more.

Show me more of your happy self.

(Is that...)

(––For whose sake?)

It felt like something stirred within the jet-black, heavy box I had pushed deep into my heart.

––"...In the end, your own desires are the most important to you."

(...That's not true.)

Ellis: It's for Kate's sake.

Ellis: I want her to be happy. Because she's a wonderful person.

(I have to go. Kate is waiting.)

--(Kate's POV)--

Kate: Ah, Ellis! Good morning!

Ellis: ...Kate?

Just as I had the housemaid, Maria, hold the door for me and was about to head outside, maneuvering the wheelchair on my own, Ellis arrived.

Maria gave me a wink and quickly left the scene.

(Maria... I think she's misunderstanding my relationship with Ellis.)

(I'll have to clear that up with her later.)

Ellis: Morning... What are you doing up so early?

Kate: I was practicing maneuvering inside, and I've gotten pretty good at it, so I thought I'd try going outside... Look!

I showed him by tilting the wheelchair and turning on one wheel, and Ellis's eyes widened.

Ellis: Wow, you've gotten so good!

Kate: Right?

(I wonder if I managed to reassure Ellis a little.)

Kate: But... Roger said yesterday when he checked on me that it's okay for me to start rehabilitation now.

Kate: So even though I've gotten this good, I might not have many more chances to show off.

I gently stroked the handrail, feeling a bit regretful since Ellis had handmade this wheelchair for me.

Ellis: Hmm... I see.

Kate: So, I think I can go to the dining hall for breakfast by myself... You don't have to come every morning anymore.

Ellis: ..............

(I was happy that Ellis came to see me every morning.)

(Hearing his gentle "good morning," seeing him always smiling when I opened the door...)

(And him suggesting exciting breakfast plans every morning...)

(But... If I rely on him any more than this, I feel like I won't be able to do anything without him.)

Kate: Our vacation will be over soon.

Kate: It's about time I became independent.

Ellis: ...I see.

(What's wrong?)

I had expected him to be happy, so his gloomy expression made me feel uneasy.

Peering through the gaps in his bangs that hid his eyes, I looked into his face questioningly.

Kate: Is something bothering you...?

Ellis: No. Okay, if that's what you want, I'll do that.

His wavering eyes seemed to be pleading with me––but that faintly surfacing emotion disappeared into the depths of his twilight-colored eyes.

Ellis: ...But can we start tomorrow? Since I'm already here, I want to have breakfast with you today.

His sweet, pleading voice made my heart pound like bursting bubbles.

Kate: Of course! Let's spend the day together.

Ellis: ...Okay.

Kate: So, where should we have breakfast this morning?

(Yesterday, it was the Crown Castle garden, and the day before yesterday, the newly reopened cafeteria.)

(Before that... he took me to the restaurant near the theater.)

Kate: You've taken me to so many wonderful places, so today I'd like to go somewhere you feel comfortable.

Ellis: Somewhere I feel comfortable?

Kate: Yeah.

His suggestions were always places that he thought I would enjoy.

(Come to think of it, I've never asked him about his preferences.)

When I looked at his face, Ellis seemed to be pondering, as if he had never considered it before either.

(Maybe I'll get to see a new side of him.)

(...But, the fact that I'm even thinking that means I'm already pretty smitten.)

I feel like this vacation, just the two of us, has gradually transformed the "like" I feel for Ellis into something else.

Kate: Have you thought of anywhere? A place where you feel comfortable.

Ellis: ...My room?

Kate: Your room...?

Ellis himself seemed to be questioning his own answer with a cough, and I tilted my head in confusion.

Kate: Ellis?

Ellis: ...Yeah.

Certainly, it's a place I've never been before.

(To be honest, I'm really curious about what kind of room he has...)

(But, having a meal alone in his room...)

As proof, my heart was pounding.

As I fell silent, Ellis gazed into my eyes.

Ellis: ...Kate?

(I was the one who asked where he wanted to go...)

(And more than anything, I feel like he gave me an answer that, unusually, wasn't for my sake.)

Hesitantly, I glanced up, and Ellis was staring down at me, flustered.

(...Please don't look at me like you're observing me...)

I couldn't help but be flustered and averted my gaze.

(Normally, he would immediately come to my rescue when I was troubled.)

But today, he did nothing.

Ellis: ...Is that no good?

Kate: Y-Yes, it's fine!

My hastily given reply came out high-pitched.

Ellis: ...Really?

Kate: Huh?

His insistence and the pressure made my voice crack even more.

(Oh, dear...)

Embarrassed by my awkward self-consciousness, my face grew hot.

Ellis: ...Are you sure?

Ellis leaned down slightly to look at me, a mischievous smile playing on his lips––.

(For some reason, Ellis is being... mean today?)

Kate: Geez... Are you teasing me?

Ellis: No.

Ellis: ...Or, I don't know.

(Huh...??)

Ellis was lost in thought, his gaze fixed on me.

It was as if he were holding his current feelings in his hand, examining them closely, trying to identify what they were.

Ellis: I really did want to go to my room.

Ellis: I didn't mean to trouble you...

Ellis: But seeing you troubled made me want to trouble you more.

Ellis: ...So maybe I was teasing you?

(What the...)

Ellis moved away from the wheelchair and stood in front of me.

Ellis: I'm sorry if you didn't like it. I won't do it again.

He crouched down in front of me, looking up with an apologetic expression, begging for forgiveness. My face flushed red, and I was frozen in place.

Knowing that his actions stemmed from his honest feelings, I couldn't even bring myself to be angry at being teased.

Kate: No... I didn't dislike it.

Ellis: ..............

Surely, this was just a glimpse of the contents of Ellis's secret box.

(His true feelings, not just the ones convenient for me.)

(I was afraid to see them, but now that he's showing them to me, I'm happy.)

Kate: Rather than you holding back what you want to say or do for my sake...

Kate: ...I'm happier when you do what you want and tell me what you want.

Ellis: ..........

Ellis blinked a few times, then gave a troubled smile.

Ellis: ...Okay, I'll keep that in mind.

Ellis moved behind me again, and the wheelchair slowly started moving.

The sound of the wheels turning.

The sound of Ellis's shoes as he walked behind me.

The silky metallic sound of our accessories.

During this vacation, where I felt like I was suffocating from sweet happiness, even such trivial sounds made my heart race.

(...This is bad...)

(––I really do like Ellis.)

.

.

.

.

.

Chapter 13

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to leave me a tip here or buy me a coffee through the "Leave a Tip" button on my navigation bar!

[hyperazraphael]

So I had a FUN LITTLE DISCOVERY about Facebook today!

So today I decided to go ahead and private as much as my Facebook as possible. Why? Because the less I have to interact with it, the better. Literally the only reason I don't delete it is because I use it to keep in contact with my D&D group who won't use Discord for some cursed reason and I do have some old memories on there with a couple of friends that are nostalgic. And while I was referring to an article which had some steps for how to do so, I came across this little gem:

To which I said, "What do you mean OFF Facebook activity??? What OFF Facebook activity would FACEBOOK be tracking???" So I followed those steps and went in there and pulled up the list of information it had stored and LO and fucking behold! Apparently Facebook has been tracking a BUNCH of shit that I've been doing online EVEN though my Facebook is registered with my old-ass hotmail account and almost everything I do online is through my modern gmail. Also, I VERY INTENTIONALLY don't have FB installed on my phone, so it is VERY much separated from anything I do. And not just my searches, oh no no. It has been monitoring a WHOLE BUNCH of fun stuff including tracking my doordash orders, etsy orders and searches, shopping on zenintcg, the fact that we have insurance through Allstate, even my old fucking HINGE dating profile which I haven't even USED since like 2018 but apparently they've been getting updates on as recently as last year.

Seriously the ONLY thing Facebook should know about on this list is Grand Summoners, because it used to use FB to log in. NOTHING ELSE had anything to do with my hotmail, or FB. This is all information that FB obtained independently without my consent.

SO THAT'S FAN-TUCKING-FASTIC. I'm just... such a fan of that!

So for any of y'all who you know, DON'T want this corporation who is known for mishandling and selling user information to have information that it obtained about you without your consent outside of its platform, I suggest you follow those steps above to disable that. Currently it takes you to a secondary page where you you will need to follow these additional steps to Disconnect from Future Activity:

So yeah maybe spread the word because this is sure news to me and BOY AM I PISSED. Like I expect this from Google. Google tracking my searches or whatever makes sense in a hell on earth capitalist society way. Amazon tracking what you search on Alexa (or say within the same room as Alexa), sure. But Facebook finding my information even though it's associated with a different email address and not through its platform? THAT is just insane and malicious to me. I feel like a tin hat lunatic that's like "the social media's secretly trackin' me and stealin' my information!" except this time they actually ARE.

[7grandmel]

Todays rip: 06/05/2024

Wake Up! It's Friday!

Season 8 Featured on: The Joke-Explainer 7000™'s Highest Quality Rips: Sunrise

Ripped by AdamCrossing

Tentative rip name: Last Freight-train Night

Huge apologies in advance for not posting this on a Friday or even a Saturday. The joke has been completely missed. I hope you can find it in your hearts to forgive me 😔.

Ah man, melody swap rips. They're always fun, right? Even in the channel's earliest days, we had stuff like SNES Mini Circulation, Earth, Wind & Bombs and Akumajō Lololo expertly showing off their inherent, obvious appeal - leveraging the instrumentation of one track to bring out a whole new vibe to another piece of music through rearrangement. But especially early on, and even nowadays, you'll notice that some games get favored above others for melody swaps. Super Mario 64, the Pokémon series, NES and Game Boy games, Plok! - granted, the reasons for a lot of these are very easily explained, but with games like Plok! in particular the recent emphasis has come from a select few rippers' absolute enthusiasm for the game and the unique soundscape it provides. Tons of Plok! rips are absolutely mindblowing as a result of this passion, and I intend to cover some of these in the future no doubt - but Wake Up! It's Friday!gave me many of those same thoughts upon first listen whilst being from a game I never would've thought would be one befit for melody swapping.

Again, to clarify: It's perfectly understandable why those aforementioned select games get so many melody swap rips made of them. Pokémon in particular has at once such a nostalgic, distinct yet versatile set of sounds that has allowed for a ton of creativity in how rips are done, with everything from the piano-driven peacefulness of Blue Mareep to the synth-heavy insanity of Plasmaseeker. The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks, meanwhile, is a game I only truly associate with two instruments - the pan flute and the violin - and that paired with its relative obscurity compared to other often-ripped games made me understand why all the chips wouldn't be placed on it in particular. Clearly, I was underestimating both the game and AdamCrossing's sheer range as a ripper here - the guy has genuinely impressed me with his arrangements of the New Super Mario Bros. series' music in particular, and yet I mistakenly assumed that to be the only trump card in his deck. Then again, as both those games and Spirit Tracks work with a smaller, more quirky set of playful instruments, I suppose Wake Up! It's Friday! only makes sense for him to have tackled; nevertheless, the rip wound up positively blowing me away in its arrangement, whilst still finding a way to stay absolutely faithful to the sound of the game its taking from. It's pan flutes and strings, yes, but they're leveraged to a far greater degree than I could've ever imagined.

If you presented me with a choice of song to use in a melody swap for Spirit Tracks' Overworld Adventure theme, I wouldn't have been able to give you an answer - yet had I given you one, it would've probably been incredibly far off the mark from what Wake Up! It's Friday! lands at. It's a full arrangement of Katy Perry's Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F), the absolute pop sensation released just two years after Spirit Tracks itself - yes, in other words, this is a PAN FLUTE arrangement of hit song Don't Mine At Night. Like, maybe I'm just easily impressed, maybe I'm just far too attached to Spirit Tracks' sound from playing on its stage in Smash Bros. all too much, but I have to commend Wake Up! It's Friday! just off of its concept alone. But, come on now, you've heard Thwâmpröck Desert - you KNOW that Season 8 has been delivering in far more than just concept alone.

See, the rip isn't just pleasant for its novelty, it feels as if it fully realizes itself in so many small little ways. There's of course the persisting banjo-like backing from the original keeping a playful, plucky adventuring tone, but it's in listening in close that you'll hear something truly special. You guessed it: That chuff-chuff-chuffing sound persisting through the entire track is the sound the player's train makes in Spirit Tracks when moving at the highest speed, whereupon it starts to sync up with the Overworld Adventure theme - in other words, the sound effects are a separate element from the actual music piece, yet Wake Up! It's Friday! goes the extra mile in including it just to make it all feel more...right. The cherry on top of even that is, of course, the sounds of crossing signals fading in and out of the song at various points throughout its runtime. This isn't referencing anything in particular from Last Friday Night, it's a completely original touch by AdamCrossing, but it adds SO much to the listening experience: Pair it with the other two things mentioned in this paragraph, and it starts to feel as if this track is truly taking place within Spirit Tracks itself, a sense of immersion far above what was necessary is conveyed through just these small touches alone. It stimulates the brain in ways I never thought I needed - and in terms of sheer listenability, it all just helps give the arrangement a real sense of tempo, befitting of the dance-able pop song it's an arrangement of.

Season 8 is a lot of things, and I'm still trying to ascertain what to truly make it of four months into its run. But if there's one constant I'm sure of, its that the channel's quality has basically never been higher - rips like Wake Up! It's Friday! are dropping left and right without being part of larger events, as if to just casually remind you of how good of a place the channel is in right now. And having those explosions of quality be attached to games which really haven't seen all too much action on SiIva compared to the big boys, to the channel's "hidden gem" games as it were? Be it back with Plok! in Season 6, or all the countless other examples over the years since, that always just fills me with such joy. Every game is someone's favorite, and every someone has the potential to be a SiIvaGunner contributor - it only takes one person's love for a game to get rips as carefully made as the works of AdamCrossing's, among which Wake Up! It's Friday! is easily one of the best.

[tellnotalespod]

TNT S1 E1 - Not For Long came out on 2nd May 2022, which means Tell No Tales turns two today!

(and if we're being honest, TNT being in the terrible twos explains a lot about how emotionally fraught it's been recently)

Going ahead with this show is the best decision I've ever made, and it changed my life for the better. I'm so incredibly grateful for this community for welcoming me in 💜

I got a little nostalgic and found an old voice note (from almost three years ago!) that's posted under the cut. I sent this to Michaela (one of our ghostie VAs) almost immediately after having the idea for the show. It's edited a lil to keep it down to a reasonable length, because much like Leo Quinn, I sure can Yap.

[Image ID: A whatsapp voice note sent by me, followed by another message by me that reads "oh I think I've decided the name of the main character is going to be Leo, bc hell if I'm going to do this completely self-serving project for no other reason than the enjoyment of creating it then I'm damn well gonna use the name I'd use if I ever decide to change to a more masc sounding name." The following messages sent by Michaela on 4 July 2021 are sent in quick succession, "omggggggggg yesssss" "I want to listen to thisss" "I am 100% happy to help" "I love this idea" "so much" "pls do it" /.End ID]

Note: audio quality changes around a lot because I was, I think, dyeing my hair at the time

Voice note transcript:

 I have a… an idea. And it might be really stupid and it will probably never come to anything. However, I'm really excited about it. So... hear me out (LAUGHS). My idea is, uh, I want to write a podcast about an ex-employee of a ghost hunting company, and the- the basis of the podcast is... I literally just had this like half baked thought like five minutes ago, so bear with me while I talk this through. This character works for a quite renowned institute, company, whatever, organization that hunts ghosts. Uh, they destroy the ghosts whenever they're called to it, but the main character is starting to get suspicious of the fact that some of the ghosts that they're called to don't necessarily seem violent, and some of them are completely harmless and they just want to exist and so they have been working on a recording system that can capture the voices of ghosts. And they start off as an assistant to like the head of this company, but they're already starting to feel complicit in what they're becoming kind of more and more aware is potentially a very evil operation. And it's gonna alternate between like their their notes and the recordings of interviews with ghosts that they are sent to hunt, but don't. They sit down and they get their life story instead and then either leave them be or try to help them move on peacefully or whatever. And there's gonna be a bit of a, like a, an overarching plot in that the organization that they work for is corrupt, but not in the way that they think. And I'm thinking the main character is trying to, like, capture enough evidence, basically, before they can quit this organization- t hat's, that's, that's their intention, is they want to make sure that this recording system is completely functional. They want to capture enough evidence of completely harmless ghosts. They want to have like a huge backlog of stuff to use against the head of this company, and to do that, to have access to ghosts and all of that kind of stuff, they have to continue working for it, which they hate, but that's the only way that they see themselves being able to achieve good in the long run. So, the first season is going to be them, like, trying to work on this project in secret while you get glimpses of the boss doing some, like, shady shit. And like... who's to say that I need to finish my novel this month anyway? You know?? But fuck it, this is... I'm really excited about this, so I'm gonna give it a shot.

[skygemspeaks]

okay so after seeing all of the first three episodes again last night with friends and falling even more in love with the cast than before, i finally got around to episode 4 today. some thoughts:

i can't gush enough about the set design, it's all absolutely gorgeous. i was completely in love with the little clearing where young zoro and kuina have their match, just seeing the sunlight filtering through the trees...it really gives off that kind of nostalgic, romantic feeling that you get when you think back to a simpler time in your life. and of course, kaya's mansion is gorgeous! it doesn't look like yet another generic rich person mansion. it has character! i loved all the wall art in their dining room, i like the orderly yet cozy cluttered feeling of the kitchen, i love how it all feels lived in, like it has a history

talking more about the technical aspects, i love the costume design too! i like the slightly too clean look of the marine uniforms - it brings notice to the fact that these are new cadets who don't have much fighting history. i like that both nami and sham get to wear practical clothes! no stupid high heels for nami! no short shorts!

i didn't mention this last time, but i LOVE jacob's version of usopp. it's crazy that they managed to find a guy who can do usopp's over the top facial expressions in real life. they really lucked out with this entire main cast, i can't imagine literally anyone else playing our beloved straw hats. i hope we can see at least one more season, and i hope i adore robin and chopper just as much as i love these the east blue crew

as sad as it is, i'm glad that it seems like merry really is dead. i like this more brutal direction for the live action, because it feels like there are actual consequences for them, and i like that you can't take for granted that just because someone survived in the manga/anime, it means they'll survive in the live action too

the child actors are a little stiff, but i think they're really doing a good job given how young they are! young zoro's actor was definitely doing a better job that kojiro's. he sold his grief over kuina's death very well

speaking of koshiro, i still fuckin hate that dude. he did kuina so dirty with his sexism, convincing her she had no future as a swordswoman, making her believe that she could never stand up to men.

i think having koby and helmeppo show up at kaya's mansion and inevitably get duped by kuro was a good choice. it lets koby get a little more experience in a leadership position, and more than that, it helps establish usopp's distrust of the marines. from the beginning he was always interested in the romantic view he had of pirates because of his dad, but seeing that the marines failed him, even after they said they would help him, and that they didn't believe him no matter how much he begged them to, it helps establish a reason for him to go along with the pirates when they invite him to. the marines didn't do shit to protect kaya, but luffy and his friends did everything they could. they loved kaya, maybe not as much as usopp, but they wanted her to be safe.

side note, it's kind of hilarious to think about helmeppo trying to kill luffy, and then going back to the ship and finding out that he's garp's grandson 💀💀

when we are! started playing in the background as the going merry set sail for the first time with her crew...i cried, i'm not ashamed to admit it. gosh, i missed her, and i miss the first opening. it's so nice to see her get to go on more adventures with her crew in this new medium! i know some people were unhappy with her figurehead, but i just adore it, it suits her crew well

luffy's little shit-eating grin when kaya just gives them merry for free, and nami being just SO exasperated because he's gonna be so insufferable now, it made me laugh so hard! i love these idiots

when usopp and luffy were arguing about which one of them was captain, and nami just burst out laughing? and then zoro started chuckling too? that was so healing! they've already had good chemistry so far, and they've shown loyalty, but it's so nice to finally see zoro and nami kind of starting to admit that they do like these people they've become friends with, and it's nice to see that they're coming around to how much they care about luffy

i was a little iffy about them doing the garp reveal at the end. my first instinct was to be really annoyed by it, but after thinking on it for a moment, it honestly does make sense. in the first place there wasn't really a plot reason to put off the reveal until post enies lobby anyways. and then you also have to take into account that it would be a huge success if we ever even get a second season, let alone reaching post enies lobby. so it's not ideal, but i'm not too upset at them about it. ALSO, seeing zoro, nami, and usopp's reaction to the news was fucking hilarious. i hope we get some good dynamics in the next episode! i want to see garp call luffy his idiot grandson. i want that funny family dysfunction.

[eemamminy-art]

I was really sick last night so I'm taking it easy a little bit today before I try to get any work done, so I spent a few hours putting together Mal's farmhouse in the sims 4 :3

Lots of pics ahead so it's going under a read more! Also please excuse the quality, I have to play with low graphics because my computer is a potato that's like, 7 or 8 years old at this point. There's also a lot of rambling about stuff with my character and my fic in here if that's of interest to anyone too :3

Okay... Well first of all, Them!!

Mal looking like a little trucker in that cap and vest combo lmao but it's so cute :3 I think it suits his weird 20-something year old grandpa aesthetic!! I use mostly vanilla cosmetics so Mal's hair is a bit longer than it should be and Alex's hair is a bit shorter than how I draw it but I tried to keep them mostly accurate! I think Mal looks better in terms of design just because I've made him in the sims before and had years to tweak him to how he looks here lol

Now the farmhouse...! I tried to get the layout of the house looking like I imagine it, so it'll give you a good idea of how it's supposed to be laid out in my fic :3 how I describe it to be anyway! The outside is not at all accurate besides the placement of the crops and chicken coop. Beside the house should be a river (it's the meadowlands farm in stardew and I moved the cabin to be right beside the river where the chicken coop is initially when you start!) and further down past the chicken coop and crops should be a whooole bunch of fruit trees. I envision the farm as like, having an orchard of different fruit trees as the main crop for the farm's actual income, while the chickens and other crops are more for like, self-sustaining the family. Idk if that comes across in what I'm writing but I'm kind of trying to have Mal stumble his way through learning to farm rather than having an inherent idea of what to do or detailed written instructions left by grandpa lol

The kitchen and living area are one big space :3 idk why the door to the basement turned invisible, just sims being sims I guess. But imagine a door there behind the dining table and not just an open gap in the wall lmao

The living room wall is a different color than how I've drawn it so mission failed on that one lol but it's fine! It should be a record player instead of a jukebox and there should be a landline phone on an end table near the door, but sims 4 only has so much stuff in the vanilla. RIP to my landline phones from previous sims games, I think I miss that the most 😩 nothing quite makes me as nostalgic for childhood as a landline phone in the home. Anyway!

Beside the kitchen is a hallway which leads to the bathroom and to Mal's childhood bedroom which he no longer uses. The hallway is kinda cramped but I like that, it gives a vibe of those kind of houses that have little space and try to use it all to the fullest :3 I didn't notice the bathroom floor was wet before taking the bathroom pics, you can thank Alex for that. He had just jogged and showered and I guess left a puddle 😂 messy boy!!

And Mal's childhood room is very small but just has some cutesy stuff in it. The little bed and little wooden chest are some things that kinda come up in a few chapters I wrote so I was like 👀 those are essential

The master bedroom, which was Mal's grandparents' room but he's since moved into it. I think I also describe it as having a dresser in addition to the closet so that's missing... And there should be family photos but I don't think I have anything like that with my currently installed packs. The guitar was grandpa's, but I don't think Mal knows how to play? I had some idea a few months back about Sam teaching him guitar but I'm not sure now. Feels a little too intimate for the dynamic he and Sam have/will have! Besides that, Mal's love of music has manifested in dancing and singing so I think that's a fair trade :3 but he keeps the guitar anyway for sentimental reasons! And the green bedding, as made by Emily... but you know in my head I imagine her making a huge quilt for him, so pretend like there's a big quilt on the bed too lol

Last is the basement which looks nothing like it should lol. I forgot to reinstall the laundry pack so I'm missing that... but I imagine it as having the water heater, washing machine, some wine racks, and a woodworking table. Maaaybe casks or kegs like you can have in stardew? I need to think on it :3 But it would be this shape of room at least, just a small square room under the kitchen.

And then... I played a little and I kept getting stuff that felt so true to them lol

Vigorously nodding, yeah 😄

(small nsfw mention in the following paragraph fyi)

And then some spicy ones which made me laugh because this is also accurate to how they are. They were literally just talking btw not doing any romantic interactions 😂 Mal made some bad jokes and Alex was like oughhh I can't not fuck him 😫 I haven't started posting all the horny turmoil chapters yet but you'll see eventually, he's a little bit pathetic about it lol it's cute

And of course, it wouldn't be the sims without it doing some weird buggy shit (especially sims 4 lately... these QOL patches have added some weird quirks to how townies autonomously interact with your sims lol)

Wherein grandpa died and then immediately called, as a ghost, to ask if Mal wanted his company for sympathy... Hrmmm....... 🤔 Maybe it knew that grandpa's ghost shows up from time to time in stardew valley too lol

The end 🥰 Hope you enjoyed reading...! I'm gonna play with them more another time and if anything fun happens I'll be sure to share!!

[ngkiscool]

Two birds with one lentil

After a long period of not writing, here is my entry both @flashfictionfridayofficial (muted colours) and @jewsinfandoms (communication).

As always this is a Good Omens fanfiction, this time about Crowley and Aziraphale. Enjoy :)

Aziraphale stared at the table that was laden with a bewildering amount of holiday dishes. Between the lettuce salad with sun dried tomatoes, cheesy stuffed mushrooms, butternut squash with pecan nuts and beet carpaccio, the result was a cacophony of textures and colours.

"Too much, Angel?"

Aziraphale didn't bother to turn around and look at the speaker, he already knew who it was. Who else but his beloved demon would be able to read his body language, and understand his stress? People were usually happy with so many options to choose from, and nobody had reason to believe, other than someone who knew him for millennials, that something was wrong.

"How 'bout you take that lovely stuffed eggplant and some of the vegan cheese burrekas you love so much, I'll bring that wine bottle, and we will find ourselves a quiet corner?"

A few minutes and some well-earned cups later, the angel allowed himself to relax. They sat on a wide bench near the synagogue, and watched the people enjoying the food.

"That was an excellent suggestion," Aziraphale said in what he thought of as a whisper. Being drunk lowered some of his angelic defences, causing his voice to carry clearly around them.

"I am known to have great ideas," answered Crowley, clearly proud of himself, as he snapped his fingers discreetly to create a bubble of silence around them. He had a feeling that Aziraphale was about to get nostalgic, and some memories were just too complicated to explain.

"Sometimes I miss the days when everything was simpler", confessed Aziraphale, confirming Crowley's hunch that this is gonna be one of those times, and he congratulated himself for thinking ahead. "

"We have been over this, Angel, I'm sorry for creating taxes…"

"This is not what I'm talking about," Aziraphale cut Crowley's words short, something he rarely did, and the demon silenced. Whatever was on his mind, must have been important. "Remember Babel?"

Crowley scratched his neck in confusion. "Nice enough weather, nothing to eat but wheat and lentils, clothes a bit itchy. What about it?"

"Lentils!" Aziraphale spoke in a voice loud enough to pass through the silence bubble Crowley made, causing some people to look at them. It's not every day you see someone is that excited about them. "That was good times. Everybody ate the same thing, wore the same clothes, spoke the same language… No room for misunderstandings because of a translation mistake."

Crowley looked at him in confusion. "But if all the people think the same, there will be no diversity! No local knitting patterns, paintings describing special traditions, ballads about everyday life… Do you really want that?"

Aziraphale looked at him in despair. "If that will stop the hatred of today, so yes, the price is well worth it."

"But it won't, Aziraphale, that's the whole point. Who do you think made the Tower of Babel collapse?"

"Well…" Said Aziraphale hesitantly, "I always assumed it was one of your lot. Surely none from my side."

"The humans did it to themselves! Even when they all spoke the same language, they had disagreements among themselves, and that led to the destruction. It was all their work."

"Are you saying humans are doomed? They will always have wars? That is very pessimistic, even for you." Aziraphale looked shattered, as if that conversation was the final straw to break his faith in humanity.

"Not at all, angel. Humans have also a great capacity for caring and love, even if sometimes they forget it."

"Then what are we waiting for? There is work to do!" Aziraphale jumped to his feet, all the sadness gone from his face, and took Crowley's hand. "Will you help me?"

Crowley smiled. "Of course, angel. Anything you want."

[anonsally]

Day 4 in Chile: Museo Baburizza in Valparaíso and then transfer to Santiago

Today, after a lovely breakfast (and admiring the cats hanging out in the backyard), we packed up, checked out, and left our luggage at the hotel. We wanted to visit the art museum in the extremely ornate building we had seen on the tour.

On our way out, we heard a bird singing and I tried Merlin sound ID even though it doesn't know South American birds, but it did suggest a house wren (which inhabits most of both American continents). The glimpse I got was of a very tiny brown bird, so it's plausibly correct. I also saw a purplish pigeon with a fancy neck plumage situation, so I'm almost sure it was a Chilean pigeon. But I didn't have my binoculars with me, so I didn't have the greatest look at it.

We set off and got waylaid by an artisan notebook shop. I really have no self-control when it comes to little notebooks. I have so many. I bought a yellow one and a purple one and got my initial stamped on each one. Next we were unable to walk past a tiny independent grocery shop. We ended up buying some fruit and veggies and several little healthy snacks. So then we had to go back to the hotel to drop off our purchases!

Then we walked to the museum, but we didn't have enough cash to buy the tickets and they didn't take cards, so we rode the funicular down to the train station to get cash again, and then rode back up again. Finally visited the Museo Baburizza! The building itself was really interesting. There were some artworks by Chilean artists and we enjoyed those.

Then we went back up toward the hotel, stopping again at the grocery store so I could buy bread, cheese, and a cucumber for lunch. They were very friendly and I managed to speak a little Spanish, and between our incompetent Spanish and the woman's limited English, we managed to negotiate the transaction.

We ate our improvised lunch at our hotel, but the driver arrived a little early and we had to pack up in a rush, and Wife seems to have left her faithful water bottle behind.

It rained a little on the drive, but we still had good views of various mountains including the snow-capped Andes! And the driver was sort of loudly playing 80s music which was fun and nostalgic for me.

He dropped us off in Santiago at the place we will stay for the next 3 nights. It's sort of halfway between a hostel and a hotel. The rooms are private and have bathrooms, but they are very tiny rooms! On the positive side, though, the prices are closer to the hostel level, and we don't seem to be the oldest guests. There are shared areas including a bar and courtyard patio. The decor is cheerful and the family that runs it is friendly, but we are starting to suspect that Chileans simply do not get cold. The rooms here are not really sufficiently heated, and we've had to keep our jackets on at most meals.

After checking in, we set off to explore the neighborhood and run a couple errands. It was interesting looking in the shops and getting a feel for the area. It is very much a Big City, which is not my favorite setting, but I've seen some bird murals and heard parakeets flying around. Before returning to the hotel, we went to a restaurant that turned out to have great food at a very reasonable price, though it became clear upon visiting the rest room that it was very much a bar that we were not really cool enough for!