#is a direct quote from me to my friend Logan

[spookyblazecoffee]

Nolan: Can you name a single city in Oklahoma?

Brett: Oklahoma City, bitch!

Nolan: *Stays silent, staring at Brett with a death stare*

Brett: I’m sorry I called you a bitch, I love you.

Nolan: I love you too.

[swhhdr-wthhr]

lots of fun facts about my sanders sides opposite au: (but i clearly have thought of some characters more than others)

logan :

introduced around the time of og accepting anxiety. represents bad decision making and willful ignorance

his first big moment was in can lying be good, which was a game show run by him instead of a play directed by janus. he didn't care whether thomas lied or not. he just wanted to give janus a morality crisis and joke around with virgil

only uses analog technology (ex: if someone asked to borrow his phone, he'd pull out a rotary phone, which works despite not being plugged in)

he's an amateur magician and loves showing off his tricks. virgil is the only one who is impressed by this

pulls things out of seemingly-too-small spaces like mary poppins with her bag, but only from other people's clothes (he will often steal janus's hat and pull something absurdly large out of it)

instead of rising up or appearing out of nowhere in the videos, in every video he walks out from a different random place (ex: from behind the tv like remus, from underneath the couch, down the stairs virgil sits on)

all of his clothes are glow in the dark

he doesn't know he needs glasses. he just assumes everyone has blurry vision

uses vocab cards like original logan but all of the words are made up and have never been said by anyone

regularly puts inflection on all the wrong parts of words and pronounces common words wrong (he doesn't pronounce long, uncommon words wrong, just short, easy to pronounce ones)

always talks just a little too loud and a little too fast

conspiracy theorist but only for theories that no one has ever heard of

wears a suit in every video except the court room one, where he wore the unicorn onesie the whole time

when thomas died his hair purple, his hair was inexplicably a completely different color. it would change every time someone mentioned it and he would never acknowledge that his hair looked different from everyone else's

censors people like og janus, but instead of covering their mouths, he just makes a loud distracting noise like og remus

the only side who doesn't think he's annoying is virgil, who finds him hilarious

virgil:

introduced in episode 1. represents pretty much all of thomas's positive emotions and none of the negative ones. also impulsive thoughts (impulsive not intrusive)

is technically a light side based on his role in the story but he's friends with everyone and "doesn't pick sides" (he sides with whoever is the most useful or interesting to him in the moment)

whenever conversation with the others bores him, he shamelessly ignores them, often scrolling on his phone in the middle of a video

extreme form of a hedonist. he chases dopamine like his life depends on it and is willing to do extremely reckless things if he thinks it will be a little fun

often causally tries to usurp the others and gain unilateral control over thomas's life ("wouldn't it be fun if you just ignored all of them and listened to me?")

is very open to trying new things for the experience, even if he can reasonably guess that he won't enjoy it. roman has no short supply of horrifying, painful ideas that they can try together

very good at insulting people in ways that really hurt. also very good at acting innocent and pretending he wasn't trying to be mean

some parts of the fandom in this universe would think he had a corruption arc when he became friends with the dark sides (there would definitely be fanfics where patton kidnapped and brainwashed him to be evil or smth) but he was just always like this.

always excited to help out the dark sides with their plans, being a bit of a double agent because thomas trusts and listens to him

he's an asshole who just wants to have fun and get what he wants all the time forever

roman:

introduced in this version of dwit, but he represents dark creativity and melancholy more so than intrusive thoughts

claims to hate disney but constantly quotes disney villains

frequently goes on long, depressing, overly dramatic speeches

collects dead things. he's trying to get a corpse of as many different animals, plants, etc. as possible

shameless masochist. (his shoes feel like he's walking on broken glass all the time and he loves it. he was inspired by the original little mermaid)

says all of the same types of things as og remus, but in a more monotone, gloomy way

often very aggressive, especially towards logan. he shows his love through violence and insults. he does the same with patton and virgil but less overtly because he can't get away with it as easily

came up with the name "the dark sides" just like he did in the og series, but this time it's an official term because it was created by one of them

always fights with patton over who's in charge. patton is usually the winner. either way, they don't like listening to each other so whoever wins would just boss around logan (they already both do)

janus:

introduced in episode 1. represents honesty and justice

the most gullible person ever. assumes everyone is always telling the truth and is completely blindsided when he's lied to

a strict kantian. he literally has never lied intentionally

associated with sheep instead of snakes (get it? like the bible?) it's much more subtle than the snake symbolism but gets more obvious as the show goes on and he gets an outfit change. (he wears a white wool turtleneck, has sheep/goat rectangular pupils, and has little horns under his hat, which is why he wears it)

his logo doesn't have a sheep on it, but his christmas sweaters do

tries to be nice to everyone since it's his job to be a good role model, but he would rather be honest than polite, so he can be pretty sassy at times

always feels guilty for something, even if he did nothing wrong

always a target of logan for his gullibility, and how he tries so hard to steer thomas in the right direction. in can lying be good, the game show logan hosted was rigged and completely nonsensical. this drove him crazy because...

he cares very much about things being fair

much more competent in the courtroom scenario than og patton was, too bad patton in this universe is also more strategic than og janus

remus:

introduced in episode 1. represents light creativity, hopes and dreams, and innocence

very squeamish and easily scared

if og remus is r rated creativity and og roman is pg creativity, this remus is g rated. never curses. very averse to violence

he's kind of the straight man of this group of gay men (similar to og logan). he's fed up with everyone, especially the dark sides

really hates the fact that virgil is friends with the dark sides, but he can't really do anything about it so he just sulks

you know in the we take requests video where they say the most out of character thing each character could say? and for remus they say like 'can you guys just chill? i'm trying to sing all of moby dick'? that's this remus's energy

writes poetry in his free time

his ideas can be pretty out there and weird like og remus, but just without the dark stuff

mostly pretty calm and subdued, but can get very hyper and intense when he's exited about an idea or a romantic opportunity for thomas

patton:

introduced around the time of svs

very strategic. plans meticulously before doing anything. (even little unimportant things) he was the mastermind behind pretty much everything logan and roman did before he was even introduced

says that he doesn't care about the other dark sides and that he only works with them out of necessity. he is actually very fond of and protective over them. he'll never admit it

always polite to everyone, even when he's arguing against them (this was very confusing to thomas who expected him to be even scarier than roman). it's just performative though. he's a hater, not a lover

enjoys making puns but always denies that they were intentional (like og logan but if he was lying about it being an accident)

has very dulled emotions. he enjoys spending time with roman, logan, and virgil because they're all so intense in different ways and allow him to feel something

he is especially attached to virgil, since virgil can't just make him feel any emotion, he can make him feel happy

doesn't emote with his eyes. or blink.

starts off as less threatening than roman, but later on, he gets some much scarier moments. roman has more of a constant, steady stream of scariness, while patton holds most of it in until it builds up to an explosion

has a #1 Dad mug, but it's been crossed out and has #2 Boss written under it (logan gave it to him)

roman frequently tries to kill him. he pretends not to notice it to frustrate him (ex: roman will poison his coffee and he'll drink the whole thing with no reaction)

[devilishlydumb]

So about the fics you’re writing… the larthur one is very appealing tbh😭 but I’d die for landoscar???

Could we have a snippet of both? Pretty please🥺

hiiiii! i'm gonna assume you want the landoscar harry potter au snippet because i'm very proud of this one hehe but if you meant the agents of shield one, just let me know!

anyways, both snippets under the cut! ♡

landoscar harry potter au, but make it oscar staring from afar while ignoring his friend group (the friend group in question: arthur, logan, dennis and an oc meant to represent the audience)

“There’s no way Max Verstappen is that funny,” Dennis says, scrunching his nose at the sight, “I see the guy on a daily basis and he’s never even tried to crack a joke.” They all focus on the scene before their eyes. Max keeps talking animatedly, everyone around him completely enraptured. Lando giggles, Alex laughs, George looks like he wants to rip out his own ears and Charles is just a mix of confused and fascinated. It checks.  “My brother says you just, and I quote, have to look past the cover. Whatever that means,” Arthur has his mouth full, making the words not as clear as he probably thinks they are, “I think he’s just been pining for years unable to say a thing to the guy. So.” Oscar’s eyebrows rise very comically if Nora’s reaction is anything to go by. His attention goes back to the group, zones in on Lando despite Charles being the reason why he looked again.  The thing is: he doesn’t like Lando Norris. He’s never liked him. Or. Well. That’s just not true. He used to. Like him, that is. And then the whole third year prank happened and Logan cried, Nora spent a night in the infirmary and Oscar decided that he hated the guy. Dumb teenage crush be damned. And yet… Everyone seems to like him. Adore him. He’s seen people from other houses cheer for Hufflepuff during matches dressed up in Lando jerseys, girls and boys alike swooning every time he spots the snitch. Oscar doesn’t get it, he’s literally just some guy. Sure, a somewhat funny and ridiculously charming guy, but… Just some guy at the end of the day. At least that's what he keeps telling himself.

and larthur being soft and tentative because that really is just their whole dynamic in this fic, so, yeah.

Dinner started approximately half an hour ago. Give or take ten minutes. And Lando is still finishing getting ready, Arthur waiting for him by the door, shoulder leaning against it. He had insisted on waiting despite the Brit’s reassurance that he would be fine on his own, that it was indeed part of his brother’s wedding weekend and while Lando could afford to be a little late, Arthur couldn’t. Not really. It hadn’t mattered. “On your left.”  Lando’s head snapped in that direction, finally seeing the shoe he had been looking for. They were late. So late. He was sure Max would be planning his death by now. Deserved. Truly. “You have the keycard? I think I lost mine. Who loses a keycard? S’not like we did much today! Where…? I don’t get it. Should be somewhere… Around here.” Lando’s voice is high-pitched, stress flowing through his veins.  Last thing he wants is to ruin their weekend. Which he won’t, but he’s nervous, so. Not like he can properly think things through. It’s not until Arthur is standing right in front of him, hands on his shoulders, worried expression on his face, that Lando allows himself to take a deep breath.  “I texted Charles. They know we’re late, it’s okay. Just, uh… A few threats about tomorrow’s dinner being the most important and all that.” He says it like it’s nothing, but Lando feels his insides churn. He nods a bit, looking at him, truly looking at him. Arthur’s brows are furrowed, like he’s worried Lando might snap at any time now. The weight of his hands on his shoulders is comforting, makes him feel centered, stops his mind from going into a spiral of “what ifs”. Lando manages a small smile in his direction, his hands traveling to the other’s forearms, squeezing lightly.  Thank you. I don’t get it. Thank you. Arthur smiles back, softly, before letting his hands fall down his arms until they’re not touching anymore and Lando’s taken back to Croatia.

hope u enjoy them both, let me know if you want to see more! ♡

[consanguinitatum]

A new DT thing for me to pursue...i.e., I Love it When My Brain Does a Weird!

So back in 2021, a book called Royal Conservatoire of Scotland: Raising the Curtain was published by Luath Press Ltd. It was researched and written by my friend Stuart Harris-Logan, the Keeper of the Archives at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland/RCS (previously the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama/RSAMD). I was honored to work alongside Stuart in the RCS archives for a time in 2019 during my tenure as a student archivist at the University of Glasgow.

I recommend this book wholeheartedly if you're interested in the history of the RCS. It's a great read! It contains spotlights on many former RCS students who've gone on to become successful in their fields (including Sam Heughan, Ncuti Gatwa, Richard Madden, James McAvoy, etc.) and - of course! - has a small spotlight on David Tennant as well. It's only a few pages long, but it contains quotes from a sit-down interview David did called 'Conversations at the RCS with Andy Dougan' on 4 July 2016, when David was there to receive his honorary Doctorate. This interview was recorded and is housed at the RCS Archives. It was intended for RCS acting students and therefore spent a lot of time focusing on David's years at the school (a particular thrill of mine!) so of course I've seen it; alongside David's brilliant and engrossing 2016 SAG-AFTRA interview - which I was in the audience for! - this RCS interview remains one of my favorite interviews with David.

Raising The Curtain also contains this fabulous matriculation photo of a very young David (around age 11), taken in 1982 upon his entrance into the RCS (then RSAMD) Junior School. He's said before he hated his glasses when he was a kid, and by the looks of his expression in his picture, it definitely seems like he didn't want his picture taken! (For those of you who don't know what the Junior School did, I've included this little explanation from the 9 March 1988 edition of the Glasgow Herald.)

During the course of the RCS interview I mentioned previously, David speaks about how important getting involved with the Junior School program was to him. Quoting the interview from Raising The Curtain, David says the following:

"I came from a background where nobody really knew how you go about becoming an actor. I mean, we were aware that there was the Athenaeum as it was then, so we sniffed around and found out there was a Saturday morning class called the Junior School which you could come to and do classes. I later found out that it was run by the students and it was part of the BA Acting course. At the time, I just thought I was going to a Saturday morning drama club, and I did that every year until I left school and came here as a full time student."

Upon reading this, my brain did a Weird (a phenomena I affectionately call my "DT Spidey Sense") and it began to prickle. Given my extensive research into David's early career - which heavily focuses on his time at drama school - I know during his years as a BA Acting student, it was part of his last year's coursework requirement to help teach and direct Junior School participants in at least one production (so yes, if you've ever wondered if DT directed anything, well -- you heard it here first!)

Now here's what I noticed. In 1984 and 1985, there was a 3rd Yr. BA Acting student who was attending the RSAMD/RCS. He would've been required to teach Junior School students as part of his coursework, and direct the Junior School students in a few plays. That student was Alan Cumming. 

As previously noted, David began Junior School in 1982 and continued until he enrolled as a full-time student in 1988, so David would've been in the program at the time. So...is it possible to confirm Alan taught a very young David Tennant? I'm in the process of pursuing an answer!

[cherrrigrl]

Attention fellow Swiftie!

I have 3 tickets available for sale for Taylor Swift's ERAS Tour. These tickets are for the lower bowl section. Unfortunately, I panicked and bought them before realizing that my friend had already purchased floor tickets the same night. Send me a direct message if you’re interested

this and your blog feels very scammy. everything on this blog is from september 14th onwards, including the oldest liked post and your own posts.

the first post you reblogged at (above time) you captioned this:

bit odd. seems like your not really a big fan. considering your first liked post is dated september 13th, posted at 5:30 AM. (my time, universal time, idk)

furthermore, your second post was posted three minutes after the first one. no new posts have been blogged.

finally, your likes consist of the above post from september 13th, 5 posts from taylor swift, the second post you reblogged, a logan howlett gif series (unsure why), and 3 users who have reblogged your ask (copy pasted, may i add) in a positive manner, approving of your message.

so, sounds pretty scammy to me.

p.s. where are the tickets even for? what country? what show? why is your blog name 'Untitled'? where is the last full stop to your sentence since you've used grammar perfectly fine before? why is the era's tour called (and i quote) "Taylor Swift's ERAS Tour"?

[loganslowdown4]

Sanders Sides:

All In The Details! (2023)

Remus Disturbing Frame in DWIT + Filming for Incorrect Quotes 3!

Patton Frames Editorial Birthday Shoot (2024)

Janus Is Cold Blooded Confirmed

If Wes Anderson Directed Sanders Sides Details Part 1

If Wes Anderson Directed Sanders Sides Details Part 2

My Quotes (Incorrect Quotes Vol 3)

Logan’s Lip Bite (Crofters The Musical)

Janus Calling Logan Sweetie (Inside Out 2 reaction)

Theatre Adult/Roman’s Spot (10 Misconceptions About Me)

The Sushi Slip Up (DWIT)

Valerie as The Sides (Making Some Changes)

Twinning (Ro & Re Hand On Chest Looking Sad)

C!Thomas laughing reaction image (ROTB)

Rise of The Bloop Pics

Did Roman Regift His Nerd Socks

Thoughts On What Makes The Perfect Gift Part 1

Thoughts On What Makes The Perfect Gift Part 2

Sides Sweatshirt Design Easter Eggs

Orange Side Tease Thumbnail SvS Redux

Real/Fake Food Anime Detail (Delicious in Dungeon)

SvS Redux Lily Padton/He-Man Comparsion

The Bagel Joke Needs A 3rd (AOVD/SVS:R)

Janus Calling Patton ‘Honey’ SvS Redux

LilyPadton/Stardew Inventory SvS Redux Easter Eggs Part 1

LilyPadton/Stardew Inventory SvS Redux Easter Eggs Part 2

Do We Kiss Now Or… SVS Patton

Cartoon Therapy: Steamboat Willie Lego

2020 Livestream: Who’s Your Fave Side To Play

April 2024 Charity Livestream Summary

Patton/Atticus Finch Comparison (SvS)

THOMAS SANDERS/SANDERS SIDES EPISODES/ANNIVERSARIES/NAME REVEAL DATES LISTS!!

5 Shot Split in ATHD

SvS Redux Patton’s Blink-&-U-Miss-It Look at Virgil’s Spot

Virgil’s Shoe Laces (Skirt Look) Tutorial

Logan Detail from Make Assumptions About Me Vid

The Notebook/Logan Keeps Receipts Running Joke

Patton & Logan in FWSA

The ‘that’s what she said’ joke SVS

Janus’ Dramatic Lighting Throughout The Series

Bridgerton Short Janus Coat

That Time Janus Called Logan a Bitch (svs:r)

GRWM Janus Makeup Tutorial Thoughts

Food Pages Running Gag Shorts

Joan And That Activia Computer Gag (Shorts)

Roman Short Where Is The Love/Glam Makeup/Deserves a Proper GRWM

TTH The Box Poses

Logan’s Skirt Reshoot Thoughts

Roman Hates Mustaches (SVS REDUX)

Remus Drops A Hint (HAVE I GROWN)

Remus Sitting Comparison (WES ANDERSON SIDES)

Remus and His Cockroaches (WORKING THRU INTRUSIVE THOUGHTS)

Logan’s Onesie Has Wings?! (INCORRECT QUOTES 4)

Roman’s Editorial Look Makeup Question Answered

Thomas Giggling While Singing Oh Yeah (IQ4)

Patton’s Dad Moment ‘Calm Down Time’ (LNTAO)

Friendship Bracelets For Patton (CAN PLUSHIES IMPROVE OUR HEALTH)

Daddy (LNTAO; RISE OF THE BLOOPS)

The Different Offices Of Emile Picani

Logan Copying Roman’s Mannerisms To Be Dramatic (MOVING ON; DWIT)

Virgil Reacts To Inside Out 2 PART 1

Virgil Reacts To Inside Out 2 PART 2

What Roman Says About Virgil (VIRGIL REACTS)

Sleep Is The Eyelashes Meme (WHY IS SLEEP DIFFICULT?)

Sleep’s First Appearance Easter Egg (WHY IS SLEEP DIFFICULT?)

Remus And Roman Matching/Opposite Editorial Looks

Lego Movie Batman Reference (CARTOON THERAPY 3)

The Bagel Prophecy (CARTOON THERAPY 3)

SANDERS SIDES CHRONOLOGICAL EPISODE/ANNIVERSARY LISTS

ALL SIDES THEMED PHOTOS CHART

I Am The Walrus (SANDERS SIDES QNA)

Belle Love (ROMAN DISNEY TIERS)

Janus!Patton’s Smile (CLBG)

Janus As Scooby Doo (EMBARRASSING PHASES)

Dom Steals Roman’s Rhyming (ROMAN DISNEY TIERS)

Roman’s (and Dom’s) Disney Films Tier Ranking ALL THE DETAILS!

Rom & Dom moment/possible running joke? (MIND MELD OLD VS NEW FRIENDS)

Logan’s Glasses (MY TRUE IDENTITY)

Roman & Remus Twinning Outfits reoccurances

Roman Writing With His Right (MY JOURNEY ON YOUTUBE)

Called Sleep A Bitch (Because He Is) 😂 (MY CHARACTERS READ YOUR TWEETS)

Transcription Of Argument Between Core 4 (the best I could make out) (RETURN OF THE JAM)

The Liar Liar Test Joke Explained (SVS)

Roman Happy With His Jam (WHAT’S COMING UP EVERYBODY)

4th Anniversary & Flores/Coming Home Edit Explained (FWSA)

Roman’s Pillow Throne (ATHD)

Logan Looks Like Daredevil (NIGHTMARE BEFORE SPIRIT CHRISTMAS)

Nightmare Before Spirit Christmas Character Comparison Guide

Electric Company Head Turn Transition Cut (LNTAO)

BTS Roman’s Arm/Patton Pointing Jokes In LNTAO Raw Edit

BTS Patton Smiling In LNTAO Raw Edit

The Sides + Into The Unknown Lyrics (2nd Anniversary) (ITU)

Costume Redesign (S1 -> S2)

My Roommate Is Hades All The Details Part 1!

My Roommate Is Hades All The Details Part 2!

My Roommate Is Hades All The Details Part 3!

My Roommate Is Hades All The Details Part 4!

[avocado-frog]

Incorrect quote compilation

Jaxon: Now it seems we're back at square one-- finding Dylan. Leo: For the record, I already found them. Elliot: And you let them get away before we could have a meaningful conversation. Leo: They stabbed me! Jaxon: I'm surprised they waited this long, Leo. We've all had the urge.

-

Dylan: Why do you act like we’re three year olds? Jaxon, exasperated: WHY?!? Jaxon points at Leo: YOU TRIED TO HIJACK A CAR! Jaxon points at Elliot: YOU NEARLY JUMPED 20 FEET OFF A CARPARK! Jaxon points at Dylan: AND YOU ATE MULTIPLE DRIED LEAVES AND ROCKS OFF THE GROUND! Jaxon: AND YOU ASK ME WHY????

-

Elliot: Okay, can we all stop saying stupid shit for a moment, please?! Leo: Alright. Jaxon: Hey, I- Elliot: SHUT UP! Jaxon: I HAVEN'T EVEN FINISHED MY SENTENCE!! Leo: It was bound to be stupid.

-

Jaxon, holding a toy lightsaber: I’m Darth Vader! Elliot: I’m done with everyone’s bullshit.

-

Logan: I have seen a lot of murders in my time, and all six of them were today.

-

Jaxon: But seriously, what is the real plan here that has to do with not fucking around? Leo: There is no plan that does not involve fucking around. But we will make sure all of our fucking around will be applied in a constructive direction.

-

Leo: Can I bother you for a second? Lily: You're always bothering me, but go ahead.

-

Logan: Lily, keep an eye on Leo today. She's going to say something to the wrong person and get punched. Lily: Sure, I'd love to see Leo get punched. Logan: Try again. Lily, sighing: I will try to stop Leo from getting punched.

-

Logan, spraying a melted cutting board with a tiny water gun: We gotta cool this bitch down. Cool it down. Leo: I actually just put the cutting board in the oven... Elliot, visibly confused: Okay, so she decided to put the cutting board in the oven? Logan, spraying Leo: You FUCKING DUMBASS! Leo: Dude, I forgot- Logan: OH MY FUCKING GOD! We're trying to make Chicken Alfredo right now, and you fucking MELT the cutting board in the oven at 400 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT!? Dylan: *Watching in complete confusion while trying to process this whole situation.*

-

Logan: You know what I learned from my friendship with Leo? Cass: There’s no such thing as too mean? Lily: Never let your friends know for sure if you like them? Jaxon: Always hold a grudge?

-

Logan: When's the last time we all got together like this Leo: Hmm. The time Jaxon dropped me off a building.

[literatikoo]

Lane Kim deserved better

I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that I would only write Lane Kim meta when I am very very angry because I need to be powered by spite and petty energy to unravel exactly how much of a disservice this show was to Lane and by extension any Asian kid with a similar life. And, well, it's happening now, so buckle up kids, this is going to be a loooong ride because I have a lot to say.

Before we start on the negative aspects, the show got a lot of things about Lane right, which is why I care so much about her character. Yes, ASP obviously didn't know how to write a POC experience and it's seen in the way some very harmful stereotypes were propagated (the tiger mom trope, Mrs Kim's religious beliefs, the depiction of the Kim extended family etc) but at the same time Lane was beautifully written as a character, unlike her plot which left much to be desired. Lane Kim was an Asian girl with rock n roll dreams who had an extremely fraught relationship with her mother and had to fight for even a semblance of independence. And I hate to say it but a lot of daughters of Asian households are forced to hide a part of themselves from their families, so Lane's story was authentic.

Not only was Lane amazing as an individual, she was also a great friend. She was the only one who was really in Rory's corner; she never judged her and supported all of Rory's relationships (my favourite example of this is when she barely tolerated Jess in S2/3 and then did a complete 180 like 5 episodes later, all because Rory decided to finally accept she liked him). Lane never pointed out what Rory was doing wrong not because she was afraid of doing so but because the two of them had been friends for years and Lane believed that Rory would figure it out one day. Lane shows this unconditional kindness not only to Rory but to everyone. She takes in her Korean cousin and teaches her to have fun even when she's afraid that Mrs Kim has replaced her, she lets Gil be in the band because she empathises with him, she takes care of the band and prevents it from breaking up multiple times. And these are only a few examples of Lane being the kindest character on GG.

One of the best things in Gilmore Girls is that the most unproblematic, amazing guy is given to Lane. Dave Rygalski is the best love interest on the show hands down (Sorry to my boy Jess but Dave was LEAGUES ahead of him at 17) and Lane definitely deserved someone like that. Their story was adorable and I would have loved for them to be endgame. However, what grates me is that when I see people talking about Lane "deserving better," it's usually about Dave vs Zach. When Lane actually deserved better as a WHOLE and not only in terms of love interests. I always thought it made more sense for her to end up alone at the end of the og series. Because Lane was a person who craved independence and she was not going to get that while tied to some guy (even if that guy is boyfriend extraordinaire, Dave Rygalski). It's even worse when we see that Lane is the only female character on the show to be treated this way. Rory rejects marriage for her career while Lane ends up with marriage as her storyline. Lorelai and Luke get back together but their relationship is still left open ended, though arguably it would've made more sense if they got married when Lane and Zach did. Paris gets into Harvard Medical school and gets a great relationship, similarly Sookie gets the family she wanted and continues to be amazing at her job. But Lane... god Lane is the only one without an open ending, without any space for speculation of where her life might lead her. Not only did they marry her off, they also gave her a terrible first time and twins, effectively locking her to Stars Hollow. The show even cut down all hope of her being a rock n roll mom as one of her S7 storylines is choosing the kids over going on tour with Zach. She doesn't get to be her own person for more than ONE season; she's stuck with being a daughter and then a wife and then a mother.

Something else that angers me about Lane's storyline is that we never really get to see how badly her relationship with her mom affects her. Don't get me wrong, I adore Mrs Kim's redemption arc and I think it was beautifully juxtaposed to Lorelai and Rory's crumbling relationship, but having a mother like that is hard. Not only did Lane have to hide 90% of her personality from Mrs Kim but she also lived with the fact that one day she might have to choose between her dreams and her mother. In the end, Mrs Kim makes that choice for her and deals with it by kicking Lane out in S4, and yet we never really see how that negatively affects Lane. Hell, Jess acts like a broody teen for two seasons, Rory wastes six months of her life away at the DAR and they both come out of it successfully. Lane gets kicked out, figures out her own living conditions, gets a job, works insanely hard for her band and... ends up having to give her dreams up completely.

Lane and Paris shared a lot of similarities too, even if they both had different friendships with Rory. They both came from terrible families and looked to Lorelai as a mother figure, they both cared deeply for Rory, and they were both incredibly passionate about their careers. Paris made calendars and flashcards and went crazy studying for both pre med and pre law. Lane was a walking, talking music encyclopaedia, she bought CDs obsessively and organised them by genre under her floorboards, she taught herself to play the drums and then found a band to play for. And yet... only Paris becomes successful in the end, whereas Lane takes over Kim's antiques. Lane was still a musician in AYITL and she can be rock n roll even with kids but this is all hypothetical and we never see it on the show.

There is a lot of terrible, lazy writing on the show and a lot of characters get ruined because of it but with Lane, her character stays the same, they just ruin everything else for her. I think she'll be an amazing mom and will probably make her best out of doing music casually. But the writers also took something so special and destroyed it just because Lane stopped being as important to the plot as she was in seasons 1-3. Lane and Rory drifting a little after Rory leaves for Yale makes perfect sense, that's just how relationships are, always changing. And yet as Lane's importance to Rory decreased so did her importance to the writers.

Lane wasn't the kind of character that needed character development or a redeeming character arc- she was never a bad person and nothing about her had to be fixed, unlike Jess or even Paris. All she really needed was for her dreams to come true because for the first 4 seasons her dreams were the biggest fixture of her personality. Like how Jess needed to overcome his trauma and Rory needed to figure out where she fit in and Paris needed to become a girlboss, Lane needed to realise her dreams because that's where her arc was leading her. But it just didn't happen. Instead, Lane becomes 2-dimensional; a large part of her screentime is taken up by Zach problems, her dreams fall flat and she becomes tied to Stars Hollow for the rest of her life. Not to mention we see less of Lane in favour of Logan and the dickhead posse.

This is not me hating on all the other characters I've mentioned in this meta, I'm just pointing out the lack of respect the writers have for Lane in comparison to all these other people who fulfilled the role they were made for. Why would you write Lane to have all these dreams and make her struggle so hard for 4 seasons just to smash them to pieces? And why is it that one of the only POC characters on this show is treated like this?

And you can't tell me the writers didn't know what they were doing, not when this is a direct quote from Lane in S7:

"It was such a small window -- a peephole, really. For years, I was this repressed kid, and then there was the briefest of windows. And then -- slam. All of a sudden, I'm this overburdened mother. I barely got to do it, Zach. I barely got the chance to be a person."

[turneverybodyintopuppets]

Orange Side & Color Wheel Theory Thoughts

Just adding to discourse on Orange’s identity, since it (namely @beauty-and-passion’s incredible analysis) crossed my dash. I’m 100% with theories about the next side being anger/wrath/aggression; in fact, I thought the second dark side (before Remus was introduced) would fill that role—the trash man thoroughly blindsided me, as is his wont.

Anyway, two more(?) points of support for orange ≈ wrath:

1) Passive/Active Emotion

Patton is “at the core of a lot of [Thomas’] feelings,” the operative phrase there being “a lot of,” rather than all, emotions. I think there’s a fairly clean split between emotions that tend to drive introspection (ex. contentment, sadness, nostalgia) & emotions that tend to drive action (ex. passion, rage, envy), and Patton seems to be exclusively concerned with the former. Roman is a complicating factor, of course, but assuming clear lines are drawn between his domain and Orange’s, it'd be interesting if Orange is the “active emotion” to Patton’s “passive emotion”. This distinction also leaves more room for character complexity than just “rage” might.

2) Arc Foreshadowing

The last major arc before Janus’ introduction was Moving On, in which deceit & denial were thematically present but not thoroughly addressed: 

- Lying--P: “Now Roman, lying is wrong” T: "Yeah, that's a side of myself that I would prefer not to feed into” 

- Repression--T: “You don’t have to try to... HIDE what you're feeling with jokes. It's okay to be sad sometimes”. This is Patton’s whole "stepford smiler” journey.

Similarly, by the end of the arc with SvS, we’ve had:

- Spite & Aggression--L: [-intakes breath- -crumbles up flashcard- GAAAHH!! -throws crumpled paper at Roman-]. Tbh, just a lot of building aggression from Logan and Roman in general (Ro: “The only thing I'll be waving is your decapitated head in front of your weeping mother!” - incorrect quotes)

- Frustration--T: “WHAT THE F**K, EVERYBODY?!”, T: “Aah... F[*ck] friends, Patton!”, and c!Thomas’ tone throughout rhythm redux + the bulk of the episode. Lots of huffing, crossed arms, and visible irritation with the others.

^Also worth noting that Patton is particularly unequipped to deal with the level of anger c!Thomas is expressing. Morality seems shocked, confused, and worried in turns, and I sympathize; it’s a bit jarring to see this side of a heretofore happy-go-lucky character... which is rather the point, isn’t it?

3) Additional notes:

It does seem likely that orange will “oppose” Logan in the story arc (Logan has consistently been somewhat immune to the existing darksides--My Negative Thinking; DWIT; speech at the end of SvS--, and we know temper is a weakness of his characterization-wise). That said, I’m wary of the idea that there are clear cut opposites between the sides, because it seems to be an irresponsibly simplistic way of representing something as complicated as personality. Self-contained episodes have shown us that existing sides could be “opposites” in practically any combination:

Mind (L) vs Heart (P)

Logic (L) vs Passion (Ro)

Optimism (Ro) vs Pessimism (V) 

Misinformation (J) vs Knowledge (L)

Selflessness (P) vs Selfishness (J)

Fettered Creativity (Ro) vs Dark Creativity (Re)

Order (L) vs Chaos (Re)

Denial (J) vs Ugly Truths (Re)

etc.

Throw in Anger/Wrath and we also get:

Active Emotion (Orange) vs Passive Emotion (P)

Hot-Headedness (Orange) vs Cool Rationality (L)

Fight (Orange) vs Flight (V)

Direct Confrontation (Orange) vs Deception/Strategy (J)

tl;dr, it’s a bit like wanting to put the core four into a separate hogwarts house each at the expense of accuracy--there doesn’t have to be a perfect mapping across the color wheel, or at all, even if it *would* be pretty nifty.

[spookypotato]

My second 1DxC2C is here, yay!

Thank you to @asnowpuff, @peggyrose19 and @ninak803 for motivating me💕

The song I used is happily by One Direction.

The ship I used is O'knutzy by the wonderful @lumosinlove! Thank you for the boys.

Happily

You don't understand, you don't understand

What you do to me when you hold his hand

Everything was too much. It was loud and the lights were coming from everywhere, flashing in all the colours of the rainbow. But Logan's eyes were fixed on one thing and his mind shut out everything else.

There he was, his best friend, Finn O'Hara, shamelessly flirting with some girl he just met. Some random girl in black skinny jeans and a loose fitting t-shirt with some kind of quote. Probably something like "But first coffee." Or "C'est la vie.". Just some quote that's good the first time and then it's everywhere.

Just like her hands. She was touching Finn. All the time. Whenever he said anything, she reached over to him. Couldn't keep her damn hands on her side for one second.

They laughed, together. Finn probably said something funny. He was always the one cheering Logan up on a bad day. Why he told it to her, was another question.

Finn was probably just being polite, now that Logan thought about it. He knew his best friend. There was no way he actually like her. But Finn was always too kind for his own good. He was probably uncomfortable. Maybe he should go over there and save his friend. That would probably be for the best.

Then he saw Finn reaching out. Taking her drink. Holding her hand, around her drink. And not moving away. Off course, Finn, always the gentleman would bring her a new drink, as hers was empty, but holding hands?!  That wasn't necessary to be friendly. Finn's hand still lingered on the smaller one around the cup. Maybe he was cheering her up? Maybe he saw, she was all alone, all evening and he just wanted her to feel better, by pretending to be interested.

Or maybe, he actually liked her.

We were meant to be but a twist of fate

Made it so you had to walk away

Off course, that was how it had to go. Finn had been gone for months. Logan was still about to cry, every time he passed his old room.

He could see the new posters, of their new teammate. Brody. Yes, he was friendly and put away the stuff he used. He was an almost perfect roommate. The problem was, he wasnt Finn.

He didnt have those red curls, that got all messed up in the morning and when he got drunk. Like they had been the night of their first - yeah. He didnt have freckles, that built star constellations in themselves. That were supposed to be traced and kissed and -.

No, that boy Logan longed for wasnt there with him anymore. No more distractions, no more pretending, no more hiding his feelings.

No more lingering glances, no more soft brown eyes, no more electric touches.

No more Finn.

'Cause we're on fire

We are on fire

But now he was with him again. Talking, joking, playing. They were on the same line. Off course, they were. Logan knew every detail about each one of Finn's plays. Finn knew every little suspicion and comfort Logan had. They knew each other better than they knew themselves. They just- worked together.

They didnt count their own goals. They scored together. Passing the puck multiple times until one of them had the best chance of scoring. They achieved multiple hat-tricks together, one from Finn and two from Logan. And even if Finn scored three, it was theirs. Because Logan helped. Logan was like his second self.

Logan was his other half.

I don't care what people say when we're together

"I want you, Lo'! I know you do, too. Admit it to yourself. You owe it to youself.", Finn shot at him and then added not much above a whisper, "You owe it to me."

"We can't, Finn. You know we can't. You dont want to risk it. You couldnt live with the whole crowd chanting slurs at you, everytime they see you. I couldnt live with them shouting at you.", Logan cried, tears forming in his eyes and threatening to fall.

"I don't care what theyll say!", Finn shouted. He couldnt hold it back anymore. He had enough of hiding. He wasnt wrong for wanting what he wanted.

You know I wanna be the one to hold you when you sleep

He remembered the morning he left for Gryffindor.

Finn woke up, blinking slowly until his eyes adjusted to the light, from the morning sun. It tickled his feet and hands and neck and shoulder- and that wasnt the sun.

Next to him, Finn had completely forgotten in his half asleep state, was Logan. His head on Finns shoulder, eyelashes on his neck. Tickling him.

Their legs were tangled and Finns hand was on Logans back. He could feel his heartbeat. It sounded a lot slower than Finns now quick one. Logans back was warm. Logan was warm. Finn could feel each place they were touching, like it was burning his skin. It was a good pain for the moment.

For the first time, all the excitement about being able to play for the lions- world famous gryffindor lions, his dream- vanished, rigt now, he just wanted to stay. Stay curled up around, this beautiful boy, lying next to him. He would give up his spot on the team, if there was anyway that would make them work out.

But there wasnt. Logan wasnt talking about things that happend, so why would he talk about things that could?

So Finn just burried his nose in Logans hair for the time being and hoped his feelings would fade. Tomorrow. Not today. He would let himself enjoy the closeness for now. He wouldn't ever get this chance again.

It's four a.m. and I know that you're with him

I wonder if he knows that I touched your skin

And if he feels my traces in your hair

Sorry, love, but I don't really care

Logan was staring at the ceiling. Or the floor?

He was lying on his bed, in Dumos basement. They had just won the badgers game. Yet, he didnt feel like celebrating.

He had left right after dinner, which was as perfect as always. Logan hadnt said more than what had been necessary and he had felt celeste worried glances, but she hadnt questioned it. He was glad about it.

The problem wasnt the win. Or how he played or that someone got hurt. No. I was the moment after the timer had ran out. He had been skating over to Finn, like he always did, bumping the helmets together and celebrating their win.

The problem were blond curls on Finns shoulder, as Leo had come up behind the red head and had hugged him. His hand was on Finns chest. Probably feeling his heartbeat. Finn warm all along his back, not only with adrenaline, but the pressure of another body close to him.

The problem was that, Logan wanted to rip Leo's hand away from Finns heart. Wanted to push him away and take his place, feeling Finns warmth in his arms.

The bigger problem was though, that he also wanted to push away Finn and take his place. Feeling Leo's arms surround him and his head a gentle weight on his shoulder.

And then there was that small part that didnt mind. That small part that wanted them to stay exactly how they were. Leo wrapped around Finn, smiling at him and looking all in all just happy. Holding his hand over Finns heart, a place Logan had had his own hand, thinking about if Finn felt the connection. If Leo felt the connection.

Logan hoped they did.

I just want it to be you and I forever

I know you wanna leave

So c'mon baby be with me

So happily

[patton-cake]

Paint and pictures

Pairings: pre-romantic Logicality, develops later into romantic logicality. Maybe prinxiety and Remile in the future.

AU Summary: Logan has always loved museums. The art, sculptures and just the peace and quiet made Logan fall in love with it's history everytime. What happens if Logan doesn't only fall in love with the art work, but also with the museum's newest visitor?

Chapter summary: All he wanted was to read his book, how did he end up sharing.. oreos?.. with a cute stranger?

Chapter 2 Chapter 3

Chapter 1: Nerd meets nerd

A feeling of peace spread through Logan when he turned the page of his book. In the background he could hear the tour guide explain the history of some of the paintings from the Golden era. Logan could probably quote the entire tour they gave at the museum, he was almost a hundred percent certain that he could recall every fact about the paintings by memory at this point. He knew the years in which they were painted, the name of the artists, the country where they were painted and every little detail in the art itself.

He probably knew more than the tour guides themselves. He certainly was more excited about the art than they were, but Logan wasn't really looking for a job at the museum right now. He preferred to focus on his studies first, that history degree wouldn't graduate by itself. No, eventhough Logan loved art and it's history, he didn't study art. His dream was to become a history teacher and to share the beautiful and horrible events from the past. Logan couldn't wait to be able to educate the next generation.

Oh right, his book, the reason he came here in the first place. Over the years, the museum had become Logan's second home. He had found that he felt more comfortable surrounded by paint and sculptures, so that's where he was now. He turned another page and looked up from his book when he heard another person enter. A boy around his age, with curly brown hair that seemed to go in every direction and mesmerising blue eyes. The stranger looked around for a few seconds before resting his gaze on one of the sculptures.

Logan recognized the sculpture to be from Athena, Greek goddess of wisdom, handicrafts and welfare. The boy sat down in front of the goddess and took his blue backpack of his back. He searched for a few seconds before grabbing a notebook covered in stars and a pencil. Logan moved his gaze back to his book and started to get lost in his story again, only to be interrupted a few minutes later. A soft voice broke his concentration and the voice seemed to belong to the boy with the backpack.

"Excuse me? I'm sorry to disturb you, but I can't find someone who works here and I had some questions about the sculptures.. Do you know anything about Greek mythology?"

O gosh he's adorable

"Oh, I'm Patton by the way!" The boy, Patton apparently, let out a giggle and awkwardly waved at Logan.

Logan closed his book and placed it next to him on the bench. Before Logan could even introduce himself, Patton was walking back to where he had abandoned his backpack. He seemed to search for something and Logan walked towards him with a questioning look on his face.

"There they are! Here! Do you want one?" Logan's confusion only grew when the boy handed him some oreos.

"Uh no thank you? I never got the chance to introduce myself, but my name is Logan and yes I know a fair amount of information about Greek mythology, although I know more about the Roman era."

"That's great! It's nice to meet you Logan! I'm Patton!" Patton paused for a second before hiding his face in his hands and groaning softly, "I had already introduced myself hadn't I? Well, now you probably won't forget my name that easily!" Just as quickly as Patton's smile had disappeared, it returned and Logan tried to hold back a laugh.

"It's okay Patton. So, you needed some help?" Patton picked up his notebook and pressed it into Logan's hands before kneeling down next to his backpack. Logan opened the book and saw several notes about multiple goddesses, followed by some quick sketches.

"Okay so," it was that moment that Logan noticed the second, smaller bag that hang over Patton's shoulder. "I'm a photography major and I have this project about history." He stood back up, now with a camera in his hands. "We have to do a photoshoot inspired by different time eras! So I already convinced my best friends to do an Egypt themed and a Medieval themed shoot with me. Now I only need some ideas for a Greek mythology inspired shoot."

Logan watched as Patton ate some of his oreos and picked up the pencil. "Well first you'll need to decide if you want to do it about a specific god or if you prefer something more about other parts of Greek culture, such as their philosophy, architecture or politics, which are also really interesting. Perhaps, depending on who you choose, you can take pictures near the lake in the forest not far from here."

Logan wrote down several names with little summaries before looking back up at Patton. "Oh my gosh! Thank you Logan! I think I'll do it about a specific god or goddess or maybe both! Or or or I can try to recreate one of the myths or-"

It was at this point that Logan's brain decided to zone out. He tried to listen, he really did, but for some reason his brain had decided that it would be a better idea to focus on Patton's enthusiastic smile, or the way he almost seemed to flap with his hands from excitement. Wait what? No this wasn't happening. Logan quickly shook himself back to reality and realised that Patton had asked him a question. Those thoughts should stay in their place, which was the 'This isn't the time for touchstarved gay thoughts Logan' folder.

"I apologise Patton, I don't think I caught what you were saying." Logan awkwardly cleared his throat and fidget with his hands.

"That's cause I didn't throw anything Lo!" Patton giggled when Logan let out a groan and continued, "I asked if you maybe knew someone who can pose for me in the photoshoot?"

Don't do it, no Logan. Yes he's cute but is one cute boy worth the complete humiliation that would come with a photoshoot? He could just suggest a friend. Yes! That sounded like a good idea, he would just tell him that maybe Remy would be able to-

"I can do it"

You had one job Logan

And you failed

But he easily repressed all the anxious thoughts that took over his brain when he saw Patton's reaction. Eyes wide, filled with stars, his smile the brightest it had been all day. It was totally worth it. And if Logan leaned into Patton's touch when the boy hugged him, who could blame him?

[cotncandyboifics]

1989 [High School AU]: Chapter 1

AO3 Link

Masterpost

Chapter 2 ~ Chapter 3 ~ Chapter 4 ~ Chapter 5 ~ Chapter 6 ~ Chapter 7 ~ Chapter 8 ~ Chapter 9 ~

Pairings: slight Logince, eventual Prinxiety & Logicality

Word count: 1,780

Story summary: Roman Prince is your stereotypical Jock, with everyone swooning after him. Every day a crowd of people follow him around, only to disperse at his personal whim. In reality, he's lucky to have such good acting skills that help him cover up the disdain he has for his life. He only wishes he could use his skills properly.

Patton Whitelock's always there to lend a helping hand, no matter who you are. If you need a favor or just need someone to talk to, go to him. In reality, he's been taught from a young age that kindness should be held above all else. No one suspects that he took it the wrong way.

Logan Montgomery is the smartest boy in the Senior class. He's stern, and most people are too intimidated to speak to him. In reality, he despises most all of his fellow students. He sticks to his studies and doesn't stray, for fear of being stuck in his father's shadow his whole life.

Virgil Black is the most emo kid in school, let alone 12th grade; everyone knows to leave him be. In reality, he's very fortunate. He has two parents who love him dearly. But everything beyond his life, everything within his mind, is utter chaos and turmoil.

what will happen when they're assigned a biology project together?

General CW: food, swearing, implied s-lf h-rm, non-graphic descriptions of s-lf h-rm scars, graphic and non-graphic descriptions of anxiety attacks and panic attacks, drug abuse, minor character intoxicated on heroin, non-graphic drug overdose description, sickness/description of sickness, blood, non-graphic descriptions of needles, (will be added to as I write more)

Chapter CW: <none> (let me know if i missed anything please!)

Author notes: hook chapter go brr

...

Nice to meet you, where you been?

I can show you incredible things

Magic, madness, heaven, sin

Saw you there, and I thought

"Oh my god, look at that face

You look like my next mistake"

Love's a game, wanna play?

Roman checked his watch discreetly as he walked down the hall toward his first class. 7:58. He was almost late, but not quite. As he walked in, earning a glare from Mr. Berry and a few students, he glanced at the whiteboard. It read: "Tuesday, September 3 / Classwork: OT essay workday / Homework: OT Analysis and Essay due FRIDAY". The word "Friday" was written sloppily large and underlined. Roman just kept his sleepy poker face and walked to his desk, in the second-to-last row in the middle. He'd not noticed the shrunken figure at the desk next to him, whom everyone knew but no one liked. Virgil Black.

New money, suit and tie

I can read you like a magazine

Ain't it funny, rumors fly

And I know you've heard about me

So hey, let's be friends

I'm dying to see, how this one ends

Grab your passport, and my hand

I can make the bad guys good for a weekend.

Virgil shoved his hands in his hoodie pockets as he glared in Roman's general direction from behind bright purple bangs. His scowl deepened as Roman pulled out his notebook but didn't take his single earbud out, proceeding to doodle on the margins of his notebook.

Roman propped his head up on his right palm, tilting his head carelessly as he drew stars around a stick man's head. By this time, the plump red-faced man known as Mr. Berry, teacher of English 12, had taken his respected place at the front of the class for a quick lecture before they began classwork.

So it's gonna be forever,

Or it's gonna go down in flames

You can tell me when it's over,

If the high was worth the pain

Got a long list of ex-lovers,

They'll tell you I'm insane

'Cus you know I love the players,

And you love the game

"Good morning students," He said in a blubbering gritty voice, the sagging skin below his chin bouncing comically as he did so. "I trust you completed reading the rest of the book. Now, as I'm sure you've noticed, the Analysis and quotes along with your essay's final draft are due - both printed - on Friday. If you turn it in on Monday, it'll drop two letter grades, and any time after that is a zero. I should hope this first assignment will get you in the punctual mindset for my class." The large man was walking about the room, between desks checking for cheating or kids working ahead. He was strict, and didn't tolerate out-of-line behavior. As he completed his sentence, his eyes fell on Roman, who was still slouched apathetically, doodling, earbud in. The students watching Mr. Berry saw his face somehow achieve a deeper hue of red and his eyes bulge, as a bull does when it spots it's target. Roman however, didn't notice; a pale-faced Virgil tried to get his attention without the teacher noticing.

'Cus we're young and we're reckless,

We'll take this way too far

It'll leave you breathless,

Or with a nasty scar

Got a long list of ex-lovers,

They'll tell you I'm insane

But I've got a blank space baby...

And I'll write your name.

"Psst. Roman." he hissed in vain. Roman's earbud was in his right ear, the same side Virgil was sitting on, so quiet noises from that direction were inaudible to him. Despite the class's uneasiness as Mr. Berry made his way to Roman's seat, and though Roman was fully aware of the fat fuming man advancing on him, he made no change in expression or focus; merely, filled in the dark half of the yin yang he had sketched next to his name as he lightly mouthed the words of the song.

Mr. Berry stopped right in front of Roman's desk, looking down at him furiously. When Roman ignored him, he took further action. Just as Roman had completed the yin yang, a fat red hand came down loudly on his desk and a sudden "MR. PRINCE!!" Erupted from the old man's gullet.

Cherry lips, crystal skies

I can show you incredible things

Stolen kisses, pretty lies

You're the king baby I'm your queen

Find out what you want,

Be that girl for a month

Wait, the worst is yet to come... oh no.

Roman looked up at him slowly, but no trace of fear could be found on his face. Even, a slight smirk hinting at the corners of his mouth. But, not enough for the old man to notice.

"What sort of media is emitting from those... earphones?" Mr. Berry said, bug-eyed.

Roman held up the earbud that wasn't in his ear, looking at it. "You mean these?" He said.

Mr. Berry simply sighed and rolled his eyes frustratedly. "Yes, 'in those', Mr. Prince. You'd better have an adequate response."

Screaming, crying, perfect storms

I can make all the tables turn

Rose garden filled with thorns

Keep you second guessing, like

"Oh my god, who is she?"

I get drunk on jealousy

But you'll come back each time you leave

'Cus darling I'm a nightmare dressed like a daydream.

Roman held the old man's gaze, as if searching for something within his grey-brown orbs. After a moment, he sighed quietly and said, "Taylor Swift."

His response earned a few snickers from other students, to which Mr. Berry scanned the room to see if he could bust two students in one go.

Most of the students thought he looked like Napoleon from the 1954 animated movie based on Animal Farm, a fair comparison. His balding head and fat body gave him an appearance that was quite comparable to a pig.

After a moment of glaring at a few of the known renegades of the class, he returned his focus to Roman. But, this time, he didn't appear as angry; rather, he was smiling gently, but his eyes still held an angry glow. "Since you see no point in listening to my lecture, I'm sure you wouldn't mind showing the class a sufficient outline for your first draft essay? Along with the requirements, of course," the senile man's smirk curled up into a grin as he spoke, tilting his head a bit. Roman merely smirked himself, and stood.

So it's gonna be forever,

Or it's gonna go down in flames

You can tell me when it's over,

If the high was worth the pain

Got a long list of ex-lovers,

They'll tell you I'm insane

'Cus you know I love the players,

And you love the game

Mr. Berry watched in moderate surprise as Roman walked swiftly past the rows of desks to the whiteboard, uncapped an expo marker, and began writing in neatly printed lettering. "Ok, so the final draft is due on Friday," He began, "So you should have your first draft completed by tonight. The essay must have at least five body paragraphs, a minimum of two quotes each-" Virgil watched, shocked, gripping his pencil so that his knuckles paled. "So I hope you've picked out your quotes already. The thesis needs to answer the prompt, obviously. Conclusion should be at least five sentences. So overall, about two or three pages. I'd recommend using this class time to create an outline in your notebook, and typing up a first draft. Have your second draft done tomorrow, and final details on Thursday. And because Mr. Berry is too... behind the times to use Google Classroom, you'll need to print it out and hand it in physically. I'm sure Mr. Berry isn't partial to the trees we're killing, so if you're in Environmental club, I'd not bother complaining." And with this final sentence, Roman touched up his writing on the board and walked back to his seat, never taking out his earbud.

'Cus we're young and we're reckless,

We'll take this way too far

It'll leave you breathless,

Or with a nasty scar

Got a long list of ex-lovers,

They'll tell you I'm insane

But I got a blank space baby...

And I'll write your name.

Mr. Berry was still standing over Roman's desk, now staring down at him with large eyes. He opened his mouth slightly to say something, but was interrupted by another student asking a question. From then on, Mr. Berry ignored Roman, which was an easy feat, as Roman did the same.

After a little over half an hour, the bell rang, and Roman slung his backpack over his shoulder and walked out. Mr. Berry considered asking him why he'd only doodled for the entirety of the class period and not worked on his essay, but his pride got the best of him, and he watched as the young man walked out of the room confidently.

Virgil had slipped out before Roman, and was now pretending to exchange things in his locker, which was unfortunately right next to Roman's. The tall jock walked up to his own locker, earning a scowl from the darker boy.

"What? Enjoy the show I put on in Mr. Diabetes' class?" Roman said, leaning against the lockers as Virgil shut his own. The dark boy just grunted and walked off, feeling Roman's eyes watching as he turned a corner. Roman smirked for the hundredth time that morning when he was gone and turned to open his own locker. When a few girls from the cheer team started to linger, flipping their hair and puffing out their chests, and Roman actively ignored them until he walked past close enough that a few of them let out squeals. He heard the usual murmurs from behind him, "he's so hot," and "I'd kill to be his date to Homecoming." He smirked to himself again, making his way to his Physics class.

...

Virgil spotted is best friend Patton in his usual seat as he walked into his second period Economics class. The boy smiled at Virgil up on seeing him, and waved happily.

"Hello Virgil!! how are you feeling this morning?" He said cheerily as Virgil took the seat next to him, sliding his backpack under the desk.

"Alright I guess." He thought about telling Patton about Roman, but thought better of it; Patton had enough on his plate to worry about as it was.

As for Patton, he had already taken to pulling out his notebook, preparing for a long class of note-taking. Economics was one of the most note-heavy classes either of the boys had, and usually required all their focus. As the teacher stood from his desk and turned on his projector, Virgil could've sworn he saw Patton staring at someone, but as soon as he looked, Patton focused on the teacher, readying his pencil. But, Virgil being the parano- vigilant person he was, followed what he thought was Patton's line of sight to... Logan Montgomery? What? Upon realizing who he had thought Patton was looking at, he brushed it off. There's no way Patton would be looking at him. is there?

[olliedollie1204]

everything fits (1/8)- the meeting

Single father Patton is utterly devoted to his son Virgil. Recently divorced Logan is utterly devoted to his twin sons Remus and Roman. The pieces come together.

Pairings: Romantic Logicality

Word Count: 3,495

Tags: Single dad Patton and kid Virgil, Divorced Dads Logan and Janus and kids Roman and Remus (their split was mutual and their relationship is good)

listen y’all, i started this AU in January of this year, it is VERY near and dear to my heart, so even though it’s not finished i wanted to make myself happy and post what i have to hopefully motivate me to finish it <333

also a very late shoutout to @kanene-yaaay-o-retorno for reading a few chapters/oneshots for this AU... hm, six months ago? and giving me the best positive feedback i could’ve asked for. she’s a queen and a legend :D

(Read it on AO3!)

“Daddy?”

Patton woke up to two tiny hands pressing into his back. He blinked, fumbling for his glasses on his messy bedside table. As he pulled them on, blinking the sleep out of his eye, he couldn’t help but break into a large smile at the figure standing next to his bed.

Virgil was always small for his age, and the giant purple hoodie he insisted on sleeping in practically swallowed him in its soft, thick fabric. It made him look, in Patton’s professional dad opinion, even more adorable than he already was.

He had obviously just woken up— his dark hair was sticking out in all directions, and there was a small line across his cheek that Patton suspected was dried drool. His oversized hoodie sleeves idly swung by his sides. Patton would give almost anything to wake up to that sight everyday.

“G’morning, stormcloud,” he murmured, reaching out to stroke Virgil’s hair. “How did you sleep?”

“Um, good.” Patton frowned a little at the short response.

“What’s wrong, kiddo?”

The little boy gnawed on his lower lip— a nervous habit that Patton had never been able to get him to break.

“Um, um, um— I’m sorry I woke you up, but—”

“Hey, Virgil, what’s the sorry rule?” Patton interrupted, grabbing Virgil’s hands to pull him closer.

Virgil looked down at their clasped hands, their fingernails painted a matching shiny purple.

“Don’t say sorry unless something bad happened,” he recited. It was a highly oversimplified rule, but a seven year old could only handle so much nuance.

Patton nodded, leaning forward to plant a kiss on Virgil’s head. “That’s right, kiddo. Nothing bad happened, so no need to say sorry, right? And in a minute I’ll get dressed, and we can go make waffles for breakfast—”

“But that’s on Saturdays!” Virgil interrupted.

Patton frowned again. The words ‘it is Saturday’ were on the tip of his tongue, until something clicked in his sleep-addled brain and— oh, fuck.

“Oh, bother,” he said aloud. “It’s Friday, isn’t it?”

Virgil continued to chew on his lip, nodding. “I woke up and I went to the, the kitchen, and the clock— the big hand was on the nine and the little hand, the little hand was almost on the seven, and—”

6:45. Patton cursed internally again. Virgil was meant to be dropped off at school by 7:00, and although Patton was rarely on time, he was supposed to be at his first job by 7:30. So much for that.

“— so I came, I came in here to wake you up,” Virgil finished, looking at his dad with wide eyes.

Patton took this all in, sighing as he ran his fingers through Virgil’s messy hair.

“Well, it’s a good thing you did, kiddo,” he finally said, smiling softly. “Because somebody—”

He poked Virgil’s cheek, giving a little laugh when his son giggled and batted the finger away.

“—Needs to get to school, huh?”

Virgil eyes lit up, bouncing on his heels. “Dr. Picani said, he said, he said we’re gonna play with clay today!”

Patton gasped as he stood up, reluctantly letting go of Virgil’s hands to get to his closet.

“Oh my gosh, that’s gonna be so much fun!” he cheered, pulling out two polo shirts and holding them up for Virgil to see.

“Grey or blue?”

Virgil pondered, brow furrowed in concentration. “Blue,” he finally announced.

Patton grinned. “I was thinking the same thing,” he whispered with a wink. “Now how about you go get dressed— I’ll help you with your hair and teeth in a minute— and I’ll throw some bread in the toaster, and you can eat it on the way, okay, stormcloud?”

Virgil nodded. He started walking towards the door, but stopped, fiddling with his sleeves.

“Um—” he blurted. “Can I, can I have a hug, please?”

Patton melted a little at Virgil’s tiny voice.

“Aw, Virgey,” he cooed, “you never need to ask me that!”

He scooped Virgil up into his arms, pressing a wet kiss onto his cheek to make him giggle.

“Ew!” He squirmed in Patton’s grip, laughing maniacally. “Daddy!”

Patton laughed, setting Virgil down. “Now go get dressed, I’ll be with you in a minute.”

He straightened up and watched as Virgil left the room, his smile dropping almost immediately.

Of course he had to go and forget to set his alarm last night. Ever since Sunday night, when he had picked up a last-minute shift at the bar, Patton’s internal calendar had been thrown off by a day.

He ran a hand through his hair, sighing again as he picked up his phone. Today was not off to a great start.

~

“All good?” Patton asked, twisting around to check the seatbelt on Virgil’s booster seat once more. Virgil nodded, his mouth full of bread and jam.

“Okay, let’s hit the road!”

With that, Patton pulled onto the street a tad bit faster than he normally would, a ‘Best of Disney’ CD playing in the background.

Patton sang along, but his attention was not on the music. Rather, it was on his son, who was getting more and more fidgety the closer they got to the school.

At the next stoplight, Patton turned down the music, catching Virgil’s eye in the rearview mirror.

“Vibe check?” he asked. It was a silly joke, some meme Remy had started quoting that Patton had picked up without even really knowing what it meant, but it soon became his and Virgil’s code word for talking about scary stuff like feelings.

Virgil didn’t answer right away, but Patton was patient.

“I don’t… I don’t want people to look at me when I walk in,” Virgil eventually muttered, eyes on his lap. “‘Cause they’ll think it’s weird that I came in late.”

Patton’s heart sank.

“And… and what if I miss something important, and I won’t know how to catch up, and Dr. Picani will get mad at me—”

Virgil’s voice broke a little as the boy started sniffling.

“Oh, kiddo,” Patton murmured, reaching behind him to grab Virgil’s sticky hand. “Virgil, honey, can we take deep breaths?”

He inhaled loudly enough for Virgil to hear him, and after a few seconds the two exhaled together. They did this for a few breaths, in and out, in and out.

When Patton was confident Virgil wouldn’t start crying, he let go of his hand, bringing it safely back to the steering wheel.

“Are those all the bad things that could happen?”

Virgil nodded in dejection.

“What are the good things that could happen?”

Now the child paused. “Um, um, um, I don’t know.”

Patton thought for a moment. “Well… I think Kai will be pretty happy his best friend came to school, even if you’re late, right?”

He looked to Virgil for confirmation, and after a beat the boy nodded.

“And if you miss any classwork, then maybe Dr. Picani will let you go to the library during playtime to finish it.”

Virgil nodded again, a little more enthusiastically. He hated the chaos of playtime; children screaming and running around and roughhousing with each other— the library would be a welcome boon from all of that.

“And…” Patton racked his brain for a third example. “And you won’t have to listen to the morning announcements, ‘cause they already happened!” he finished triumphantly, knowing that the ancient speaker system was especially grating on Virgil’s ears.

“Plus, have you ever thought someone was weird, just because they came in the classroom late?” he continued. Virgil shook his head. “So I don’t think anyone will think you’re weird.”

Virgil hesitated. “I guess.”

Patton winced.

“I’m really sorry you feel nervous, kiddo,” he said softly. “And I’m sorry I put you in this position.”

Virgil looked up at him, eyes wide. “It’s okay,” he replied automatically.

Pattons smiled a little. “Are you saying that not to hurt my feelings?” he asked, kindly but sternly.

Virgil looked torn. “Well… I mean— I guess I mean I’m not mad at you, because everybody makes mistakes, and I love you.”

Patton gave a surprised laugh. “I love you, too,” he responded, once again thankful beyond words that Dr. Picani was teaching his son healthy ways to express complex feelings.

“It’s very kind of you to be considerate of my feelings,” he continued, pulling into the school parking lot. “But I’m your daddy, and it’s my job to take care of you. I made a mistake, and I’m sorry, and I’ll be double sure it’ll never happen again.”

He looked at Virgil in the rearview. “Can you forgive me?”

Virgil nodded, eyes wide. “I forgive you.”

Patton sighed, looking at his son with adoration. How he got such a great kid, he’ll never know.

As soon as he turned off the car, he hopped out to help Virgil unbuckle his seatbelt and get his backpack on. The young boy clambered out of the car, but made no move towards the large school building.

Patton knelt down to his eye level.

“Do you wanna walk in by yourself, or do you want me to come with you?”

Virgil fiddled with the string on his hoodie. “Aren’t you late for work?”

Patton paused, checking his watch. “Yeah,” he admitted. He always tried to be honest with Virgil when he could. “But I called my boss and told him what happened, so I won’t be in trouble.”

He wasn’t gonna get paid for the hour of work he was going to miss, but Virgil didn’t need to know all that.

“Plus,” he added in an encouraging tone, “you can show me that drawing you told me about? The one Dr. Picani put on the wall because it was so good?”

Virgil flushed a little at the praise. “He put everybody’s drawings on the wall, Daddy,” he insisted, but there was a small smile on his face now.

“Yeah, but I’ll bet there was only one person who thought to draw a robot shark and a sabertooth tiger being best friends. I mean, that’s so creative!”

Virgil shrugged, smiling down at his shoes. “I guess you can see it, if you wanna.”

Patton laughed and held out his hand. “Let’s go, kiddo.”

Hand in hand, the two made the long walk up to the building. As they got closer, Patton squeezed Virgil’s hand.

“What do we say to the door?” he asked— another little ritual between the two.

Virgil giggled, throwing his arms out in front of him like a wizard casting a spell. “Open sesame!”

Patton laughed as he grabbed the handle.

“Thank you, kiddo,” he said, and pulled.

The door stayed shut.

Patton frowned. He pushed it instead. Nothing.

Virgil lowered his arms. “What’s wrong, Daddy?”

“Nothing,” Patton hurried to say. He pulled again, then pushed again. “I think… I think it’s locked.”

Immediately Virgil’s smile dropped.

“Why is it locked?” he asked, a little bit of anxiety returning to his voice. Patton pulled the door yet again, but it stayed firmly shut.

“I don’t know, kiddo.” He scanned the wall for anything that would unlock the door. There was a keycard scanner on the metal doorframe, but Patton didn’t have a clue how to activate it.

He could sense Virgil was about to get upset again, and he rubbed a hand against his son’s shoulder.

“Okay, let’s take some deep breaths. We’ll get you into class, one way or another.”

“Why would they keep the stupid door locked?” Virgil demanded, and normally Patton would remind him to use nicer language, but to be honest, he was thinking words that were a fair bit harsher than ‘stupid’ at the moment. He didn’t look at his watch again, but he knew that he really didn’t have the time to wait around for someone to walk by the door.

He turned around, about to suggest they try to find another door to get into the building, but found himself face to face with… another pair of glasses?

He gasped, hand flying up to his chest as he stepped back from the figure who was suddenly in his personal space. The other man— tall, sharply dressed, with square framed glasses perched on his nose— looked appropriately guilty at Patton’s reaction.

“Apologies,” he commented in a clipped tone. “I was in a hurry and I did not realize you weren’t entering the door.”

Patton was having a little trouble bringing his focus away from the man’s deep blue eyes, until he felt Virgil squeeze his hand, bringing him back down to Earth.

“No worries!” he responded faux-cheerfully, as the blue-eyed man moved around him to approach the door. “We, uh, we think it’s locked.”

He paused, looking back at Patton as he pulled something out of his pocket. “I have a keycard.”

With one swift motion, he swiped the card, pulled on the door, and moved to the side, holding it open as he looked at Patton expectantly.

“Oh, um, thank you,” Patton stammered, gently pushing Virgil through the door in front of him. “Come on, Virgil.”

The two made their way into the hall, Virgil pulling Patton by the hand through the unfamiliar building.

“The office is over here,” he whispered, just loud enough for Patton to hear. Patton nodded, picking up his pace a little bit but still lagging behind Virgil.

They walked a few feet before a voice chimed in again.

“It’s a safety protocol.”

Patton turned in confusion, finding Blue Eyes walking nearly next to him with long, confident strides. He opened his mouth to ask for clarification before he realized that the man was not looking at him— he was looking at Virgil. Patton turned around just in time to see Virgil give the man a suspicious look.

“What?” Patton winced a little at his bluntness, but Blue Eyes seemed unbothered.

“You asked why they keep the door locked. It’s a safety protocol. It prevents unauthorized people from entering the school building during the day.”

Virgil frowned and curled in on himself. Patton waited two beats before realizing he wasn’t going to reply.

“Oh, yeah, that makes sense!” he jumped in, not wanting to be rude to the man, who turned his gaze onto him.

“Yes,” Blue Eyes replied after a moment, “although I suppose there should be some way for parents and visitors to enter the building without having to wait for someone with a keycard to happen by. I will be certain to address this in our next staff meeting.”

Patton blinked, a little bit unsure if the man was still really talking to him or just thinking aloud.

“Probably a good idea,” he replied anyway.

He suddenly felt himself jerk as Virgil turned a sharp corner, pulling him into a nearly identical hallway. Blue Eyes continued to walk with them, speeding up to keep pace with Patton.

Patton gave a sheepish smile. “We’re running a bit late,” he said by way of explanation.

“As am I,” Blue Eyes replied. “Almost ten years of teaching and this is the first time I’ve been late to work.”

Patton’s eyebrows shot up. “Oh! Well, I hope— I mean, obviously, I don’t want to keep you from your class, if that’s the reason you’re walking with us—”

He fumbled through the sentence, trying to politely let the man off the hook if he was already late for work, but he stopped himself as Blue Eyes shook his head.

“No, no, it’s nothing to do with you. I need to pick up some photocopies for my class from the main office. I would be going this way regardless,” he stated. Patton felt himself blush a little.

“Oh, okay. Good.”

The trio arrived at the office, again with the blue-eyed man holding the door open for Patton and Virgil. As soon as they were inside, Virgil bolted to the back of the office where the late entry sign-in sheet lay. Patton meandered towards him, but stopped when he heard the man clear his throat.

“After some… reflection,” he began with consideration, “I realize that my behavior might have seemed off putting, or perhaps even rude. I apologize.”

Patton blinked in surprise at the sincerity in the man’s voice. “No, are you kidding? You definitely saved our butts back there, getting the door and all. You’re my hero!” he joked, choosing to ignore the potential awkwardness of the statement.

Nevertheless, Blue Eyes smiled. “Well, then, you’re welcome.”

Again Patton expected that to be the end of the conversation, especially considering the man apparently needed to pick up some papers for his class, but Blue Eyes continued to look at him.

“Logan Croft,” he said suddenly, sticking out his hand. Patton was picking up on the man’s— Logan’s— tendency to jump between conversation points.

“Patton Hart,” he responded, shaking his hand. Logan’s grip was firm in his, and Patton became very aware of the jam residue Virgil had left on his palm.

Despite this, Logan made no move to pull away for a few more beats, eventually dropping his hand.

“How old is… Virgil?” Logan asked, eyes darting to the young boy again.

Patton smiled on reflex. “Seven.”

Logan seemed pleased with his answer. “Ah. A good age. Hopefully not too rebellious yet.”

“No, no, he’s a great kid,” Patton assured, laughing lightly. The two watched as Virgil stood on his tiptoes to fill out the sign-in sheet, his pencil gripped tight in his fist as he wrote his name in careful, blocky letters.

“Do you have any children?” Patton asked on a hunch. He smiled to himself as he saw Logan’s eyes light up. Bingo.

“Twin boys, age ten,” he replied in a voice full of pride.

Patton laughed again. “Oh, gosh!” That made a lot of sense, given how Logan was currently watching Virgil with a mix of amusement and nostalgia. “Twin preteen boys, that can’t be a walk in the park.”

“Yes, they can be… more than a handful at times,” Logan admitted. “My husband—”

He faltered for a brief moment.

“... My ex-husband handles their fluctuating emotional states much more delicately than I do,” he finished.

Patton knew not to comment on Logan’s slip up, or the change in his demeanor. Instead, he smiled softly.

“Well, you’ve been nothing but kind to me and Virge here,” he said, shrugging lightly. “So I reckon you’re probably a really great dad.”

Logan met his eyes again, giving him a smile that made Patton feel a little flushed. “Likewise.”

Patton felt a tugging at his hand again, causing him to look down.

“You ready, kiddo?” he asked. Virgil nodded, a tardy pass clutched in his fist.

Patton turned to face Logan again, but he wasn’t there. Confused, he looked around, just in time to see the other man duck into a back office space.

That was… surprisingly disappointing, but Patton couldn’t dwell on it. He turned his attention back to his son.

“Let’s get you to class, stormcloud,” he chirped briskly, moving them both towards the door. He had just started to push it open when he heard a voice behind them.

“Virgil?”

The two turned in sync. There was Logan, watching them from the doorway he disappeared through, a stack of papers in his arms.

“I like your hoodie,” he said.

Patton felt Virgil abruptly squeeze his hand tighter, a slight distraction from the way his own heart seemed to skip a beat. He smiled, opening his mouth to respond on his son’s behalf, and—

“Thank you!” Virgil replied.

Virgil… replied? To a stranger? Without Patton prompting? He felt his eyes bug out of his head, and he tried not to openly gawk at his son, who was— oh my Gosh. Virgil was smiling at Logan, and suddenly he raised the hand not holding onto Patton, and he waved!

Patton whipped his head back to Logan, watching in shock as he waved back at his son. He met Patton’s eyes, and his friendly smile turned into one of understanding. Patton couldn’t help but grin a little too wide as he waved as well, the two of them finally exiting the office as the door swung shut behind them.

“Daddy! He said, he, he said he liked my hoodie!” Virgil was practically jumping up and down. Patton didn’t know if he wanted to laugh or cry.

“I heard,” he finally managed, his smile somehow growing even wider as he added, “And you said thank you, just like you’re supposed to when someone compliments you! You did such a good job, kiddo, I’m so proud of you!”

Maybe he was making this into a bigger deal than it was, but Virgil was almost cripplingly shy when it came to strangers, especially grownups; and yet within five minutes with Logan, he had been able to smile and speak and even wave.

Patton changed his mind. This was one of the best mornings in his memory.

“Alright, kiddo,” he said, urging Virgil to pull him down the hall. “Lead the way!”

[dominoeswrites]

Birthday Party

It's @ilovemygaydad 's birthday and I wrote this for them, so happy birthday, Mika!

Summary: Patton throws a party for his boyfriend Janus.

Ship: Moceit

Warnings: mention of food and cake, let me know if there's anything else.

Read on AO3

~~~~

Everything had to be perfect. It wasn't every day that someone had a birthday, after all! Okay, well maybe it was, but it wasn't every day that Janus had a birthday. And that was important! So yeah, everything had to be perfect.

Patton was just pulling the cake out of the oven when Virgil, who was helping Logan and Roman put up decorations in the living room of Janus and Patton's apartment, walked in.

"Hey Pat?"

"Yeah Virge?" Patton asked, though he was mainly focused on carrying the cake to the fridge.

"Remus texted saying the distraction failed, and they're on their way back."

"No they can't come back, the cake isn't even cooled yet!"

"I know, I know, but like as annoying and distracting as Remus is, Janus is apparently getting suspicious."

Patton sighed as he got the cake settled in the fridge. "How's the living room looking?"

"I think it's pretty good. Roman wants to add some like, confetti and stuff, but I think Logan talked him down."

Patton smiled a little. "Is there any way you can convince Remus to try and keep them out a little longer?"

"I think so," Virgil said, already texting Remus.

~~~

Janus, as much as he totally enjoyed spending time with Remus, was ready to go home and spend the day with his boyfriend. But for some reason, Janus let Remus drive, which he knew was a terrible idea from the start. But now Remus was driving in the total opposite direction of the apartment.

"You do realize that I live the other way, right?"

"Yup!"

Janus nodded and looked out the windshield. "That's not foreboding at all."

"Oh come on, it's an adventure!"

"And you totally don't sound exactly like your brother."

"Boo, you're no fun."

"I told you, Remus, I want to go home."

"Well I'm under strict orders not to take you home."

"Are you now?" Janus asked, arching an eyebrow.

Remus' eyes widened just the slightest bit before going back to a neutral expression, but Janus caught it.

"Whose orders are you under?"

Remus took a hand off the wheel and waved it dismissively. "Oh you know I just say dumb shit like that."

"Who doesn't want me going home, Remus?"

"Me, I'm bored and I want to hang out with you."

"Oh please, keep lying to me, you're so good at it."

"I don't appreciate your tone, young man."

"I'm older than you."

"Yeah yeah, whatever."

"Take me to my apartment, Remus."

"I don't think I will."

Janus narrowed his eyes. "How dare you quote Endgame at me."

Remus grinned. "You're welcome!"

Janus sighed and sat back into the seat. He wouldn't be home for a long time.

~~~

Patton smiled as he finished the last bit of decoration on the cake. "It's done!"

"Oh thank god, it only took an hour," Roman said, going to swipe a finger through the frosting on the side of the cake.

Patton swatted Roman's hand away. "Don't you dare! I worked hard on this and you're not going to ruin it before Janus gets here."

Virgil poked his head in the kitchen. "Oh good, it's done. They're on their way back again."

Patton grinned. "Perfect! How far away are they?"

"Probably about ten minutes?" Virgil said, checking his phone. "I guess Janus kicked Remus out of the driver's seat."

Patton giggled. "Okay." He grabbed the cake and put it in the fridge again. Roman tried for the frosting again, but Patton managed to get it away just in time.

~~~

Janus parked and got out of the car, messing with the keys until he got the one for his apartment. Remus followed, then slammed himself into a support beam.

"Goddamn it, Remus," Janus said, going to help his friend up. "Pay attention to where you're going."

"Sorry, I got a text."

Janus rolled his eyes. "Come on. I'm sure that Patton can call Logan to make sure you don't have a concussion."

Remus laughed. "Oh come on, I've hit my head on worse!"

"I mean, true."

Janus led Remus up to the apartment and unlocked the door. The lights were off.

"Patton?" Janus asked as he flicked the light on.

"Surprise!"

Janus stumbled back into Remus as Patton, as well as Roman, Virgil and Logan appeared from behind the couch.

Patton came running up to Janus and threw his arms around him. "Happy birthday babe!"

Janus smiled a little and looked around. "You did this for me?"

Patton nodded. "I wanted to give you a surprise party, because you said you'd never had one before!"

Janus laughed and kissed Patton. "You're literally the best."

Patton grinned. "Oh I have to show you the cake! It's marble, your favorite!"

Janus let Patton lead him into the kitchen, and the rest of the evening was filled with laughter and talking and cake, and Logan even ordered a pizza.

And then everyone went home, leaving Patton and Janus cuddled up on the couch next to each other.

"Did you like it?" Patton asked.

Janus smiled as he played with Patton's hair. "I loved it. And I love you."

Patton sat up to face Janus with a smile. "I love you too."

Janus leaned in and kissed Patton softly. When he pulled away, he smirked a little, and said, "Also, I was being sarcastic when I told you I'd never had a surprise party before."

Patton's eyes widened. "Wait seriously?"

Janus laughed and kissed Patton again.

[nonbinary-octopus]

Ace Up My Sleeve

Written in response to this prompt from @infinimay:

Nobody ever said that ‘Ace up my sleeve’ should be literal, and yet here we are! -Fin🐌

Wordcount: 1.3 K

Summary: being small means you get cold faster.

[More stories]

~~~~~

“Patton?”

Patton looked up from his book at the sound of his name, but for a second, he couldn’t place whose voice it had been. Nor could he see anyone in his immediate vicinity. Luckily, the speaker spoke again.

“Patton.”

This time, Patton both recognized the voice and was able to tell the direction from which it had come. He looked down to spot his smallest friend standing on the coffee table in front of the couch. “Hi, Logan,” Patton greeted happily, setting his book down on the cushion beside him. 

“Greetings.” Logan shuffled his feet, looking away for a moment.

“Do you need something?” Patton prompted gently.

“Indeed,” Logan admitted. “I— With the change in the seasons, the ambient temperature has lowered drastically, and I do not have enough body mass to independently retain a healthy core temperature. Given that you are so much larger than I am, it is reasonable to assume that you would have less difficulty creating and retaining body heat, and I wished to request that you share some of it with me so that I do not contract hypothermia.”

Patton perked up. “You want to cuddle for warmth?”

Logan looked hesitant, but he nodded. “That would be one solution to my problem,” he said, eyeing Patton’s hands warily. Patton kept them to himself for now, knowing just how intimidating Logan found him, even though they were friends now.

“How would you like to warm up?” Patton asked instead.

Logan was silent for another few seconds, looking embarrassed. Patton waited patiently, not wanting to risk scaring Logan back into the walls where he might freeze to death.

“Direct skin-to-skin contact would be ideal,” Logan said at last, not meeting Patton’s gaze. “The heat transfer would likely be most efficient were you to hold me against your chest under your sweater, but I am not entirely comfortable with… with the level of…” He paused again, clearly searching for words, and his eyes darted up to Patton’s face for a moment. “It is not that I do not believe you to be trustworthy,” Logan assured, “but I still feel a certain amount of trepidation at the mere idea of permitting you to hold me in such a way, where I am vulnerable and entirely dependant on your goodwill and mercy in order to depart.” He looked down at his feet again. “I… I apologize. Perhaps I ought not to have made this request when I am not capable of carrying through with the necessary actions to optimally complete it.”

“It’s okay, Logan!” Patton whispered. “You’re allowed to be scared of me. I know I’m huge compared to you.”

Logan didn’t say anything, only hugged himself and nodded slightly.

Patton thought, trying to come up with another solution. “What if you climbed inside my sweater sleeve?” he offered at last. “That way I’m not actually holding you at all, and I’ll stay on the couch so if it becomes too much, you can get out and away on your own.”

Logan’s gaze snapped again to Patton’s hands. After a few seconds, he mused aloud, “The heat transfer would be less than optimal. However, I would be far more comfortable.” He nodded. “Yes. I agree to those terms, so long as you will promise not to handle me directly.”

“I promise.” Patton smiled. “May I set my arm beside you?”

Though he looked nervous, Logan nodded again. Patton leaned forward, placing his forearm on the coffee table beside the tiny man. Logan approached it slowly, hesitating once more at Patton’s wrist. With another glance up at Patton’s face, Logan reached out and grasped the cuff. Cautiously, as though worried that something bad might happen at any second, Logan lifted the fabric. Patton held carefully still as Logan crawled onto his inner wrist and under his sleeve. It tickled, and Logan was certainly cold, but Patton managed not to twitch. Finally, Logan poked his head back out through the cuff, looking over his shoulder up at Patton.

“You- you may resume your previous position now,” he called.

Moving slowly, Patton lifted his arm from the coffee table, sitting back on the couch again. He didn’t quite go back to how he had been sitting before, instead turning sideways and letting his arm rest across his lap. “How’s this?” he asked when he was settled.

Logan was quiet for a moment, glancing around him. “It is— it is acceptable.”

“Good. Feeling any warmer yet?”

“Indeed,” Logan answered, and Patton could hear the relief in his tiny friend’s voice. “The air within your sleeve is considerably warmer than the air outside it.”

“I’m glad. Stay as long as you like.”

“Thank you.”

Patton grinned. “Of course. Can’t have my little buddy freezing.” Suddenly, he thought of a pun, and his eyes lit up. “Hey, Logan?”

“What?”

“Nobody ever said that ‘having an ace up my sleeve’ should be literal, but here we are.”

There was silence, but Patton could swear that he could hear Logan’s confused frown.

“I get the distinct impression that you are making a play on words,” the tiny man said at last. He did not ask Patton for the explanation, probably embarrassed to directly admit that he didn’t understand. It wouldn’t be the first time.

Patton almost shrugged, but thought better of it at the last second. It might jostle Logan. “Having an ace up your sleeve is an idiom,” he said. “It usually means having a secret plan that you wait to reveal. I think it came from cheating at cards by hiding the ace card in your sleeve for later. But an ‘ace’ can refer to other things as well. For example, someone who does not experience sexual attraction. You said you’re like that, right?”

“Yes, that is accurate,” Logan said after a few moments. “I recall having a conversation about… attractions, or- or the lack thereof, during which you said that the word ‘asexual’ could be applied to me.”

“Yeah, so ‘ace’ is short for that.”

“I see.” Logan seemed to be processing that, and after a bit he said, “The phrase came from people hiding an ‘ace’ card in their sleeves?”

“Yeah, I think so.”

Logan hummed. “So it was literal, at least in the original usage.”

“Hm?”

“You said, ‘Nobody ever said that “having an ace up my sleeve” should be literal,’” Logan quoted. “And yet, by your own admission, the phrase was originally meant to be literal.”

Patton blinked. “I guess you’re right,” he said. “I got distracted by the pun I was about to make. Point to Logan.”

“Why are you instructing me to indicate myself?” Logan asked, clear puzzlement in his voice. “You and I both know where I am.”

“Not that kind of point,” Patton said. “A point like… like on a scoreboard in a game. I’m conceding victory to you, because you were correct.”

“Ah.” Logan was silent for a moment before asking, “Is there any significance to this point I have received?”

“Not really. It’s just another idiom. Like saying touché when someone makes a good counter-argument.”

“I see.”

After a few moments more of silence, Logan pulled Patton’s cuff over his head again. He shifted about under Patton’s sleeve for a few moments, which was a very odd feeling but Patton refused to let himself so much as twitch, and then settled down again.

Patton smiled fondly down at where he knew his friend was, though he barely even made a visible lump under the cloth, feeling incredibly touched that Logan had trusted him this much.

“Hey, Lo?”

“Yes, Patton?”

“Okay if I go back to my book?”

“Certainly,” Logan replied promptly. “However… please do not forget that I am here. I would not like to be accidentally crushed or flung out of your sleeve.”

Patton nodded, even though he knew Logan couldn’t see the gesture. “I promise.” He picked up his book again and, careful not to move the arm Logan was using as a heated mattress, resumed reading.

[miguel-manbemel]

Roman’s True Form

This story is out of the main narrative. It was inspired by an idea by @/ErinTeaNTravel on Twitter. Hope you enjoy it.

Patton rose up in Virgil’s room, he was really worried.

“Virgil, can I speak to you?” “What is it, Patton? You look really worried. What’s the matter?” “You see, I’m worried about Roman.” “About Roman? What has that prince done this time?” “Oh, no, it’s nothing of that sort, kiddo, it’s just that… he’s locked himself in his room and doesn’t want to let me in.” “Well, perhaps he needs some privacy, like we all do from time to time. I wouldn’t worry too much about him…” Virgil looks at Patton’s face of concern “…although I suspect there’s more in this story you’re not telling me. What has happened?” “Well, he had an argument with Janus in the living room just yesterday, and they both spit bitter and hurtful remarks to each other.” “Yeah, Janus is just like that, he… wait a minute, you know his name? He told you his name?” “Um, yes, kiddo, at the end of our conversation he revealed his name to us.” “Why would he do that?” Virgil said, talking to himself “What is this snake plotting now…?” “Kiddo, we were talking about Roman, remember?” “Oh, yes, sorry, Patton. Still, I wouldn’t worry much. Janus is all hiss but no bite, and Roman is strong to cope with whatever he told him.” “Even if he compared Roman with his twin brother Remus and said that Roman was the evil twin?” Over hearing that, Virgil showed a face of shock followed by intense fury and anger. He was almost trembling out of wrath and had his fists well tight. “That fiend… how could he use something so low to hurt Roman like that? How did Roman take it?” “Well, he seemed to believe that Thomas and I agreed with Janus, because it was really hard for him to fight tears and… then he questioned if Thomas thought of him as his hero anymore. I tried to reassure him… but he just left to his room and I haven’t been able to talk to him ever since, he just ignores my knocking at the door.” “If I were him, I’d be devastated too. If I know Roman, and after all these years, I think I do, nothing would scare him more than thinking he’s similar to his brother Remus. I’ve said a lot of slights to him just like he did to me, but I’d never punch him in the guts like that. Even I know there’s a line... Oh, if I put my hands on you, Janus, you... you poisonous viper” “What can we do, Virgil? There has to be a way to get to him.” “Well, I could try to break in into his room. I’m Thomas’ Anxiety, no one can escape from me in the Mind Palace if I put my mind into it. I can break any door open in the Mind Palace if I want… Oh, don’t look at me like that, Patton, don’t worry. I’m not interested in your secrets and I would never enter your rooms without your permission, unless there’s an emergency. And this looks like an emergency to me. If you agree, we could check on Roman right now, if you’re ready.” “Would you do that, Virge? I’m so worried about him.” “Then it’s settled. First, I’ll call Logan, I have the suspicion we’ll need him in this situation.” Virgil rises his hand and Logan rises up. “Why do you always have to rise me up like this, always when I’m busy. I was reading the latest edition of the Trivia book…” “You can do that later, Teach, this is an emergency. Something’s wrong with Roman and we’re all going to his room to check on him.” “What do you mean wrong, Virgil?” “We’ll explain on the way. Now, let’s go.” Virgil, Logan and Patton sank down, then rose up at Roman’s door. Virgil knocked at the door. “Roman? It’s me, Virgil, are you there?” “Leave me alone, emo. I just want to be alone!” Roman said at the other Side of the door. His voice sounded sad and stuttering, as if he was crying. “Please, kiddo, open the door, let us in, we just want to talk to you and make sure you’re okay!” “Oh, you’re there too. Begone, Patton. I don’t want to talk to anyone, especially to Janus and you, not after how you… betrayed me.” “Wha…?” Patton started saying, but Logan interrupted him. “Why do you think Patton betrayed you, Roman? Explain, please.” “Oh, great, you’re all there, aren’t you?” Roman’s voice sounded annoyed between the tears “Why don’t you ask the happy papi puffball what happened?” “He told us already, Roman, but we need to hear your version of the story before getting to any fair judgment. So please, open the door.” “I said no! Leave me alone, all of you!” “Well, enough is enough. We’re not gonna leave you like that when it’s clear you’re dying of pain. You guys helped me when I needed you and now that you need us, even if you don’t see it clearly, you’re gonna get our help, by hook or by crook!” “Don’t you dare, Virgil!” “Yes I dare, Roman!” Virgil kicked the door and broke it open. Then the three of them entered Roman’s room. Roman was there on the bed. But they only recognized him by his face (something Sides could do, even when they all had the same face) because the rest of his appearance didn’t look like him at all. He was wearing a dirty white sweatshirt with red shorts and flip flops. All his hair was disheveled and his makeup was all ruined because of the tears he had been shedding for hours. “How dare you enter my room!” Roman said, covering his face with both hands “Go away! Go away now! I don’t want you to see me like this!” “Roman, we’re sorry, but we can’t go away now,” Patton said, almost in tears “much less when we’ve seen you like this.” “Like what, like this outfit? You don’t like it Patton? What am I saying… You don’t care. No ones cares about my appearance, so why should I care about it? I thought…” Roman sobbed before continuing “… I thought I was your best friend… I thought we would always be sidekicks. I always followed your lead and… you abandoned me…” Roman sobbed again “You abandoned me for that slimy snake!” “That’s not true! I would never abandon you and I’m still your best friend! How can you even doubt it?” “Well, when you had to choose a side, no pun intended, it was clear who you chose first, and it wasn’t me. I… I only wanted you to be proud of me… that’s why I followed all your directions about what was good or bad… but now you suddenly changed course and… you left me lost in the dark… I don’t know my way anymore.” “This sounds familiar… it’s almost the same words Thomas said when I told him that I don’t know the way… Last time I made the mistake of making promises I couldn’t keep, and I’m not making the same mistake again. Listen, Roman, I’m already proud of you, and being Janus’ friend doesn’t mean I can’t be your friend too. And… I know you want to follow me, and want me to guide you out of the dark, but, kiddo… I don’t know the way. I’m as lost in the dark as you are.” “Don’t be silly, Patton. You’re Thomas’ morality. You’re supposed to know right and wrong.” “I… I thought I knew. But I was mistaken, and my mistakes almost led Thomas into a breakdown, remember? How can I be any good to guide anyone, when I don’t know which way to go? I… I’m sorry if I made you think that I had abandoned you, it was never my intention, I would never leave your side as long as you needed me. After all these years of friendship, I think you should know.” Roman looked at Patton. Tears were still running down his cheeks. “If we face this together, perhaps we could get out of the dark all together, like the friends we are. Please, Roman, don’t shut us out of your life. You’re important to us. You’re important to me. We all love you. I told you before and I meant it. We. Love. You. Roman. How wouldn’t we… when for all of us… you are our hero. You have always been and forever will be.” Roman showed an emotional smile and he hugged Patton. As he did so, a shining white light surrounded them, a light so bright that made Virgil close his eyes and Logan look away. After a few moments, the light disappeared. Roman and Patton were still there, hugging each other. But Roman was so different. He looked so handsome that Virgil’s and even Logan’s mouths went ajar. He was wearing a white suit with a red vest, white gloves and a shining golden crown on his head with a huge diamond on top of it and a red ruby, an orange garnet, a yellow citrine, a green emerald, a light blue topaz, an indigo tanzanite and a purple amethyst set all around it. After Roman released Patton and Patton saw the change, he went as ajar as the others. “What is this miracle?” Patton said “You look… majestic.” Roman looked at himself and noticed the change. “Oh… I was thinking I had something heavy on my head…” Roman said smiling, still emotional. “It seems you now know my true form… It’s been so long since the last time I sported it… I think I hadn’t worn this outfit since the split… My insecurities wouldn’t let me… because I didn’t think myself worthy of this appearance… but now that you told me all these words of reassurance, Patton…” Roman shed a tear. “Are you crying again, Roman?” Patton said, concerned. “Oh, don’t worry, padre. It’s happy tears. I’m so happy to have you in my life, and so relieved to know you didn’t abandon me… I love you so much, Patton. You will always be my dearest friend in this Mind Palace.” “I love you too, kiddo.” Roman looked at the others and chuckled. “Close your mouths, please, guys, we are not codfishes.” Virgil smiled. “Again quoting Mary Poppins, aren’t we?” “Of course, you know that July Andrews…” “…is a beautiful goddess, yes I remember, Roman.” “Thank you guys. If it wasn’t for you insisting on entering…” “We’re just glad that we could help. And if you want help into kicking that snake’s butt, I’m willing to help too.” “Now that you mention it… I think I was a bit rude with Janus. True that his answer was disproportionate, but I shouldn’t have made fun of his name in the first place. I’ll talk to him later, if he lets me.” “Oh, it won’t be necessary” Logan said, with a suddenly smooth voice. Roman showed himself surprised, but then he chortled after noticing something on Logan’s shirt.

“I was so upset I didn’t notice it. Your logo is on the wrong Side of the shirt. You’ll never learn to make a perfect impersonation of us… will you Janus?” Logan smirked and shaped back into his snake-boy form. “Let it be known that I’m not sorry about anything I said to you.” Janus said. “I meant all these words and you deserved them, each and everyone of them.” “Janus, you can’t fool me. Out of all the things you said, everything are lies… except one thing but you said it thinking it was a lie, when it was true. I did deserve these words, each and everyone of them. I treated you very bad when you were opening to us and I’m sorry.” Roman offered his hand “Could you accept this apology and maybe give me a chance to start over again? Perhaps we could even be friends if you want to.” Janus smirked, trying to act cool, but a tear on his human eye exposed his true feelings. He just kept on smirking and shook Roman’s hand. “I tried to summon Logan” Virgil said coldly “why did you come instead and where is Logan?” “Oh, Logan is fine, Virgil. He’s just doing some clever stuff of his in his room, so I came in his place. We didn’t need to bother him, did we?” “Well, you may have made things up with Roman, and I’m happy for him and his well-being. But you still have a lot to respond to before me. I haven’t forgotten what you did to me, and you’ll need a lot more than a hug to fix that.” Virgil then spoke to the others “I’m sorry, I didn’t want to ruin this mood, but Janus and I have a long story, and it’s not a good one. You are my friends and I won’t mind if you think of him as a friend of yours. But I’m not ready yet to forgive him. I hope you understand. I’m happy to see you’re okay again Roman, I really am. Bye, guys.” Virgil sank down. Janus looked at the empty space, again trying to act cool, but again his human eye betrayed him and showed how upset and sad he was about it. “What did you do to him, Janus?” Roman said. “It’s a long story, Roman, and to be honest for once in my life, I’d rather keep it to myself for the time being.” “As you wish kiddo.” Patton said. “But don’t worry. We are all Sides of Thomas. We are bound to love and understand each other sooner or later, in order to keep Thomas safe and sound. I’m sure you’ll fix your relationship with Virgil someday, you’ll see.” “I don’t care about that. If Virgil doesn’t want to have anything to do with me, it’s his loss, not mine.” Janus said. Roman and Patton’s condescending smiles immediately let him know he didn’t fool them. “Well, guys,” Janus said, nervously “we have wasted enough time already, haven’t we? We have a human to take care of so I propose we start working now.” “You’re right, but first…” Patton said “…a group hug to lift our spirits up.” “Yes, group hug!” Roman said hugging Patton. Then they both looked at Janus. “What? No, I’m not as sappy as you are.” “Yes you are, kiddo, come on…” “We promise not to tell Thomas” Roman said, smirking. “Well, in that case… I suppose I could join you… just because I’m getting cold and I need some body warmth or I’ll catch the flu. Being a cold-blooded snake has its disadvantages, you know...” “Of course, kiddo, of course.” Janus joined the group hug. He tried hard to hide it, but he couldn’t help showing a warm smile when the others wrapped him in their arms.