#it can be seen as a friendship or relationship

[rabbiitte]

Queer Coding in Media: The Case of Jayce and Viktor.

Let's address what Christian Linke recently said about Jayce and Viktor's relationship because this is making some noise in the community:

According to the co-creator, Jayce and Viktor love each other like “brothers”.

Christian states that he doesn't understand why people see their relationship as a romantic one.

Linke also added, after the end of the series, that Viktor is canonically asexual and dismissed a possible romantic relationship with Jayce due to that reason.

We'll expand on these points next. But first, some context.

| About queer coding...

If Jayce and Viktor's relationship is seen as beyond brotherly, it's because it was portrayed that way. Their relationship is very queer coded.

Queer coding refers to the practice of subtly implying that a character in a piece of media is part of the LGBTQ+ community without explicitly stating or confirming it. This is often achieved through subtext, symbolism or specific character traits associated with queerness. This often arises due to societal restrictions, censorship or creators intentionally embedding queer elements into their work.

When discussing queer coding in media, the examples can include both the content of the relationship itself (dialogues, interactions and dynamics) and visual and non-visual narrative (cinematographic techniques, narrative techniques and the use of music). Both aspects—content and narrative—are essential to queer coding because: a) Content provides the material that audiences can latch onto (dialogues, dynamics or gestures) and b) the narrative guides how the audience perceives this material (through visuals or music, for example).

Queer coding for a couple in media involves using subtle visual, narrative or dialogue-based cues to suggest a romantic or deeply intimate connection between two characters without explicitly confirming their relationship as romantic or LGBTQ+. This type of queer coding focuses on the dynamic between the two characters rather than just one individual's traits. Below are examples and methods used to queer code couples:

Content of the relationship (character dynamics and dialogues):

These are the in-universe moments or dialogues that give romantic or emotionally intense undertones to the relationship. For Jayce and Viktor, this includes:

1. Use of subtext in dialogue or relationships:

Ambiguous or "more-than-friendship" dynamics: Characters have intense emotional bonds or interactions that go beyond typical friendships but stop short of being explicitly romantic. Jayce and Viktor’s connection, for example, is filled with vulnerability, admiration and devotion beyond brotherhood. Their willingness to risk everything to save each other in each timeline adds a tragic, almost romantic layer to their bond. Jayce’s comment calling Viktor “beautiful despite his imperfections” and their mutual sacrifices suggest a deep connection that goes beyond friendship or platonic relationships. Their bond, tied to time loops and destiny, feels more like a soul bond with a cosmic significance that transcends a typical brotherly dynamic. In other cases, this would be a romance.

Loaded Dialogue: Lines of dialogue may carry double meanings or suggest emotional or physical intimacy without being overt (e.g., characters use ambiguous terms like partner, special or soulmate, which can suggest deeper feelings without explicitly labeling the relationship). For example, if one says, "I’d sacrifice everything for you," it resonates beyond platonic territory. Dialogue between Viktor and Jayce is filled with layered meanings that suggest a connection deeper than traditional friendship. Here are some examples:

When Viktor’s former mentor warns him about sacrificing love and legacy, Viktor instinctively replies "Jayce will understand," directly associating Jayce with love and signaling how central Jayce is to his emotional world. Similarly, Jayce’s decision to abandon politics to return to the lab is encapsulated in the line "my place was always here in the lab with you," which emphasizes that his devotion isn't just to their work but specifically to Viktor. The repeated use of "partner" by Jayce further blurs the lines between professional collaboration and emotional intimacy, as the word carries dual meanings, suggesting equality and closeness. The term is somewhere between friends, brothers and more than that. Hence, the term can be freely interpreted. Viktor later reflects on their bond by stating, "it was affection that held us together," acknowledging that their relationship transcended shared goals and was rooted in genuine emotional warmth. Finally, Jayce telling Viktor, "there is beauty in imperfections," as he admires Viktor’s struggles and physical challenges, conveys profound validation and care, elevating their bond to one of deep emotional resonance. These lines collectively demonstrate how their dialogue is charged with a sense of intimacy and mutual admiration, allowing the relationship to be interpreted as more than platonic, hinting at queer coding through its emotional depth and layered expressions.

2. Body language and interactions:

Lingering gazes or physical proximity: Close, lingering touches, extended eye contact or standing too close for “just friends” —common romantic cues—are often used. For example, long hugs, holding hands or standing closely during emotional moments are subtle ways of suggesting attraction or intimacy. In Jayce and Viktor's case, Jayce is almost always the one who initiates the physical contact. Jayce's non-verbal language with Viktor is marked by gestures of reassurence with a hand on his shoulder, hugs without centimeters of distance and fast moves to help Viktor in the face of his weakening due to his illness. An important detail to take into account is Jayce's reaction to Viktor and Mel's return. When Viktor returns from the dead, Jayce surprises his friend with a hug that knocks him off balance by his strength. When Mel returns after no one knew of her whereabouts, Jayce doesn't even hug her, but instead complains about why she didn't save Viktor.

Protective gestures: Scenes of one character sacrificing for, protecting or expressing deep vulnerability to another can suggest more intimate feelings. Jayce and Viktor's relationship also has the presence of hundreds of moments in which they both profess for the safety and well-being of the other. In season one, after having sex with Mel, she wakes up in an empty bed. It turns out that Jayce was with Viktor, waiting on the side of the bed for him to wake up. This detail alone shows where Jayce's loyalty lies. But, overall, Jayce is very delicate and helpful towards Viktor. In turn, the only moment in which Viktor initiates physical contact is to reassure Jayce so that he doesn't feel pain on the astral plane. Both join their foreheads in a significant gesture of appreciation and affection and console each other at the end of their existences.

3. Avoidance of heteronormativity:

Lack of romantic interest in the opposite sex: A queer-coded character may show no explicit attraction to the opposite sex while forming deep emotional bonds with same-sex characters. This is especially true for Victor, who has had no interest in any character of the opposite gender during the two seasons. The guilt Viktor felt over Sky's death shouldn't be confused with sexual, romantic or aesthetic attraction. Viktor practically didn't even know Sky's name during the first season and, despite knowing each other since childhood, Viktor continues to call her "Miss Young" during the second season. As you may already know, Sky's presence in the second part of Arcane represents what Viktor has left of humanity. Jayce is a separate case, since he did have a sexual-affective relationship with Mel, despite not being officially a couple. However, he always put Viktor's well-being above his relationship with Mel.

Unconventional partnerships: Instead of marrying, having children, or living “normal” lives, queer-coded characters often follow nontraditional paths. The unconventional partnership between Jayce and Viktor lies in their shared path of devoting their lives to science and progress instead of following more traditional societal expectations. Their bond, rooted in their shared ambition and mutual understanding, creates a life partnership that revolves around innovation, discovery and reshaping the world. Together, they prioritize their intellectual and creative pursuits over conventional relationships, with their lab becoming the core of their connection and purpose. This can be seen, for example, in the moment when Jayce decides to resign from politics because he realizes that his place is next to Viktor in the lab. This partnership not only defines their lives but also strengthens their relationship, making it deeply meaningful and unique in its intimacy and shared vision.

Visual and non-visual narrative (cinematographic techniques, narrative techniques and music):

These are the deliberate storytelling choices that imply deeper subtext or allow the audience to interpret a couple's bond as queer. Examples include:

1. Visual narrative:

Symbolism (in scenes): are visual and narrative moments intentionally designed to evoke ambiguity, emotional depth or hidden meanings in a relationship. These scenes often rely on subtext, metaphor or visual framing to suggest intimacy or connection between two characters, leaving their nature open to interpretation. For example, Jayce's campfire scene. Fire might symbolize Jayce's internal turmoil. Mel appearing first may reflect her role as a significant figure in Jayce's life, while Viktor appearing next could symbolize a deeper, enduring connection. The fire "burning away" Mel and transitioning to Viktor might suggest that, in this moment, Jayce's thoughts are consumed by Viktor, representing a priority or emotional focus shifting toward Viktor. So, Viktor isn't simply a colleague or friend but someone whose presence looms large in Jayce's thoughts, surpassing Mel's. While the scene might not explicitly state anything romantic, the visual choices align with tropes often used to convey profound emotional connections, making it easy to interpret the subtext as romantic or deeply personal.

The decision to interweave Viktor’s scene with Jayce and Mel's scene while having sex is highly unusual too. If Jayce and Viktor are purely platonic friends, such a juxtaposition does feel strange. I understand, both Jayce and Viktor are "merging" with something beyond themselves, but can you imagine a similar scene with Jinx and Vi? If Jayce and Viktor's relationship were purely professional, friendly or brotherly, such imagery wouldn't normally feel warranted in storytelling.

Parallelism: In storytelling, parallelism refers to the use of comparable or mirrored elements—such as characters, themes or visuals—to draw connections or contrasts. It often involves showing two or more situations, characters or relationships side-by-side to highlight their similarities, differences or shared significance within the narrative. In Arcane, the creators align Viktor with Mel through parallels. Through this technique, creators seem to suggest that Viktor holds a similar or even equivalent place in Jayce’s life. Since Mel’s relationship with Jayce is explicitly romantic, this framing subtly implies that Viktor could also occupy a romantic or emotionally intimate role.

2. Non-visual narrative:

Music and Lyrics: are powerful tools to subtly hint at romantic or emotional dynamics between characters without explicitly stating them. By selecting specific songs or using lyrics that carry layered meanings, creators can invoke emotions or associations that resonate with queer themes, intimacy or romantic undertones. Songs that have lyrics with open-ended or ambiguous lines, when placed over scenes with queer-coded characters, allow for multiple interpretations. This creates a sense of queerness without labeling it outright, allowing the audience to interpret the relationship as they see fit. As is the case of the song The Line by Twenty One Pilots. Through the line "pull the blanket tight now" you can interpret the song from Viktor's point of view and dedicated to Jayce (since Jayce was the one who gave the blanket to Viktor).

Comparisons and mirroring: narrative parallels with romantic couples, either in character arcs, sacrifices or framing. For example, Jayce and Viktor share a significant bond across multiple timelines. Jinx and Ekko, meanwhile, also share a significant bond in another timeline. This could be interpreted as both couples choosing each other, even, in alternate universes. This is an idea that is commonly related to romantic relationships. Love across different universes is seen as something beyond fraternal and worthy of epic romantic love. In the same episode that Ekko meets Jinx in another timeline, Jayce meets Viktor in another timeline too. The same thing happens in episode three of season two. In the same episode where Vi and Caitlyn fight and part ways, Jayce and Viktor also fight and part ways. In this way, Jayce and Viktor follow a similar pattern and theme (albeit on a larger scale) to that of the other canonically romantic couples in the series.

Subtext in dialogue: refers to lines with double meanings that subtly suggest emotional or romantic undertones. The choice by the creators of lines that are commonly associated with romantic relationships such as "beautiful despite the imperfections", "in all timelines, in all possibilities, only you can show me this", "my place is in the laboratory, with you" or "it was affection that held us" convey an ambiguous message that leaves the possibility of multiple interpretations open. The use of the term "partner" was not accidental either. This word is commonly used by queer individuals to signify a romantic relationship while avoiding gendered language. Jayce and Viktor not calling each other “brothers” is significant because it leaves room for ambiguity, suggesting that the creators might not have wanted to firmly define the relationship. Jayce only called Viktor "brother" once and then insisted on the term "partners" until the end of the series.

As you noted, these aren’t accidental choices—they are purposeful creative decisions made by team members who do support the romantic interpretation of Jayce and Viktor's relationship. Animators, voice actors and designers contributed to shaping this relationship through subtle creative choices. For example, animators might have chosen specific expressions or gestures to convey deeper intimacy, even if this wasn’t explicitly stated in the script. Leaving their relationship ambiguous might have been seen as a “safe” route in the face of disagreements.

In collaborative works like Arcane, no single individual (not even Christian Linke) dictates the entirety of what's canon or not. Creative contributions from diverse team members with their own agenda and interpretations also shape meaning.

If the intention was to show a “brotherly” relationship but the execution led to widespread interpretation of a romantic one, it's failure in storytelling. If the intention was to show a "queer coded" relationship and the execution led to widespread interpretation of a romantic one, then it's success in storytelling.

Death of the author: Viewers also have their own interpretations and that's valid. Varied interpretations shouldn't be dismissed. Here the death of the author applies. This term refers to the fact that, after an author publishes a piece of work, that piece ceases to belong exclusively to the author. Once a work is released, it belongs to the audience as much as the creators. If significant parts of the fanbase interpret Viktor and Jayce as more than friends, that interpretation becomes part of the narrative’s cultural impact, regardless of authorial intent.

The interpretation in media of queer codes is deeply influenced by cultural cues. Although this changes from society to society, social cues are the same for everyone. If Viktor and Jayce’s interactions evoke a sense of romance, it’s because the storytelling taps into those cues, whether intentionally or not. The relationship between them two integrates cultural and social codes typical of queer relationships.

Cultural codes: are tied to traditions, beliefs and shared understandings within a specific culture or subculture. They include symbols (objects, gestures, or imagery that carry specific meanings within a culture —e.g., a wedding ring symbolizing commitment—), narrative patterns (storytelling conventions that audiences recognize, such as the "star-crossed lovers" trope or visual parallels that suggest a connection between characters), expressions and language (words, phrases, or metaphors that carry connotations shaped by cultural usage —e.g., the word "partner" often implying romance in contemporary Western culture—.

Social codes: are the behaviors and norms that define interactions and relationships between individuals or groups. These codes are often context-dependent and include: body language (physical gestures or proximity that suggest intimacy, power, or affection —e.g., lingering touches or intense eye contact indicating closeness—), relationship norms (expectations about how certain types of relationships—platonic, familial, romantic—are expressed in actions and language) and contextual cues (the way relationships are framed by their environment, such as a candlelit dinner indicating romance or playful banter suggesting friendship).

The way Viktor and Jayce interact is coded in a way that aligns more with romantic love than familial or platonic love. So, asking to associate Jayce and Viktor's relationship with a “brothers” type of relationship would mean having to disregard cultural and social codes.

| Romantic Undertones as "Canon Adjacent”.

As I previously said, the romantic undertone of Jayce and Viktor's relationship would result in a canonically established couple in any other series. So, what I see here is a double standard in romantic representation in the series. For example, many think that Ekko and Jinx are canon after (a conversation that wasn't added to the series and after...) Ekko gave his jacket to Jinx. Jayce and Viktor’s dynamic features more romantic subtext than that but they still are dismissed as "brothers". Is this homophobia? No, of course not. How could it be homophobia if Arcane shows an established lesbian couple? Well, let me tell you, lesbian representation is more socially accepted in male-dominated spaces due to fetishization, whereas romantic relationships between men are less embraced. The idea of two men in love can lead many people to question the masculinity of these men and the masculinity associated with characters like Jayce or Viktor is vital to League of Legends. Making a canonically gay male character is riskier for the franchise because, in lol, masculinity is an element that, many times, determines the election of one character over the other.

Unlike Vi and Cait, among whom (I understand) there was the belief of a romantic relationship, Jayce and Viktor were never associated in that way. So, I can see the risk.

If Linke intended to focus on male friendship, that’s fine, but dismissing other interpretations, especially in a story as emotionally charged as Jayce and Viktor’s, can come across as limiting or dismissive of queer readings, whether intentional or not. It would have been better for Christian Linke to shut up and let everyone have their own interpretation about Jayce and Viktor's bond. Instead of insisting on interpreting Jayce and Viktor’s bond as “brotherly”, it would be more inclusive and respectful to let viewers interpret their relationship freely. By insisting on framing Viktor and Jayce as just “brothers” or “friends,” the show risks falling into the “no-homo” trope, where creators deliberately steer clear of portraying characters as gay despite clear romantic subtext.

| Linke's arguments.

Arguments like "media lacks non-romantic platonic relationships" feel insincere because these type of relationships aren't underrepresented in media. That crisis never existed. Many popular shows and movies focus on deep, platonic male bonds (e.g., Sherlock Holmes, The Lord of the Rings, Supernatural). While it’s admirable to showcase strong male friendships, it’s not a groundbreaking theme. In such a case, there is a lack of representation of non-romantic platonic relationships between men and women. These type of relationships are equally rare and more deserving of advocacy, but we still have timebomb (Jinx and Ekko). In conclusion, media has no shortage of non-romantic male-male bonds, but LGBTQ+ male romantic relationships remain underrepresented. So, Christian Linke's dismissal about JayVik was even more noticeable after that argument.

Also, I would like to add that referring to a relationship as a "romantic" one doesn't diminish the importance or depth of a bond. Friendship isn’t erased by romance. In fact, many memorable romantic relationships in media are related to friendship (e.g., Anne and Gilbert from Anne with an E). But, to call it a brothers-like relationship would diminish the profound, cosmic depth of their connection because their bond is about recognition, unconditional support and shared purpose, even at the cost of the world. It’s poetic and tragic, resonating with themes of love, identity, and the human condition. The time loops, their repeated choice to find each other and their interconnected destinies make their relationship feel larger-than-life. For many viewers, this mythic quality resembles soulmate narratives rather than simple friendship or brotherhood.

Another argument that reveals Christian Linke's rejection of Jayce and Viktor as a possible romantic relationship, is the statement about Viktor being asexual. I would like to ask what is the point of revealing this information after the show ended? Representation works best when it's woven into the narrative, not dropped as an afterthought. Beyond that, I think Mr. Linke should educate himself. Experiencing little or no sexual attraction doesn't mean that romantic attraction cannot be experienced. Being asexual doesn't mean that a person can't be gay.

Asexuality: is a sexual orientation characterized by the lack of sexual attraction to others. This means that an asexual person typically doesn't experience the desire to engage in sexual activities with anyone, regardless of gender. However, asexuality exists on a spectrum. Asexuality as a spectrum refers to the understanding that asexuality encompasses a wide range of experiences and expressions of little to no sexual attraction. Rather than being a single, fixed identity, the asexual spectrum includes various orientations and preferences regarding sexual and romantic attraction.

Many asexual people form deep, meaningful romantic bonds and there's no inherent contradiction between being asexual and experiencing romantic feelings. To use Viktor’s supposed asexuality as a reason to dismiss any potential romantic undertones between him and Jayce feels reductive and dismissive—not just of their dynamic, but also of the diverse experiences of asexual individuals.

Let's end this post on a more positive note with Arcane team members who do support Jayvik.

Posts from animators + Jayce's voice actor with a JayVik fanart.

Viktor's character designer + posts from animator.

Moose is the creative director + AgentR is an animator + Mel's voice actress.

[arc-misadventures]

Friends AU: How does Winter react to Saphron and Terra inviting her, Willow, and Whitley to their house to celebrate Jaune becoming a specialist?

We're Love Rivals. But, Why?

Winter: Okay... Okay... Let's see...

Winter: Ah! Cotta-Arc...

(Ping~! Ping~! Ping~! Ping~! Pi...?!)

: Hello, Cotta-Arc Residence. Terra Cotta-Arc speaking; who are you?

Winter: Hello, I am, Winter Schnee, part of Atlas's Specialist Division. I wish to talk to a, Saphron Cotta Arc, is she available?

Terra: A Specialist? Spahron! Specialist Schnee wants to talk to you!

Saphron: I didn't do it!

Terra: You didn't doing anything, Dear! She didn't do anything, right?

Winter: Not that I'm aware of?

Saphron: Okay, I'm here... What was her name again?

Winter: Winter. Specialist Winter Schnee.

Saphron: Schnee? Oh, you must be, Weiss's big sister!

Winter: Ahh, yes. Yes, I am.

Saphron: So, what can I do for you?

Winter: First off, I wish to thank you for taking care of my sister when she was staying with you.

Saphron: Oh, think nothing of it! Any acquaintance of, Jaune is a acquaintance of mine!

Winter: Acquaintance...

Winter: Ahem... I wish to ask you for some... some advice...

Saphron: Advice? From me?

Winter: Yes, from you?

Saphron: Why...?

Terra: I have to agree; why is a, Specialist asking my wife for advice?

Winter: This is... I am... interested in...

Saphron: In...?

Winter: ...

Winter: I wish to form a relationship with your brother, Jaune Arc!

ST: ...?

Winter: A-And, I'd like your advice on how to do so...

Saphron: A relationship like a... a friendship?

Winter: ...

Winter: L-Like a romantic relationship...

ST: ...

Saphron: Whaa...?

Terra: Y-You want to start dating... Jaune?

Saphron: Why...?!

Saphron: I'm not dissing on my brother; he's a catch.

Terra: A great catch~!

Saphron: But, you... are interested in my brother...? You seem to be... too good for, Jaune?

Terra: Yeah... You're like a nine on the hot babe scale, Jaune is at least a six on the hot guy scale.

Saphron: The gap is too large.

Winter: Oh, then you haven't seen the latest photos of him, and his new look have you?

Saphron: New look?

Winter: Yes. Jaune has officially joined, Atlas's Specialist division. And, with that he has acquired a new uniform. See?

Saphron: Ohhh~!

Terra: Love the hair~!

Saphron: I had no idea he had bulked out so much...

Terra: Goodbye lanky twig, hello beefcake~!

Saphron: Okay, Jaune's gone from a six to a... eight point five?

Terra: Eight point five that's a good estimate.

Saphron: I like the blue, it really compliments him.

Terra: Oh, he got himself a new sash!

Saphron: Really?! I never thought he would replace...? Wait, is that a snowflake I see?

Terra: Yeah it is...?

ST: ...?

Saphron: Winter~?

Winter: Y-Yes...?

Saphron: Did you get my brother a gift~?

Terra: A little... token of your affection?

Winter: Y-You can tell?!

Terra: Oh shit, really?!

Saphron: She does like him!

Terra: How did, Jaune swing a pretty lady like you?

Winter: Well... at first I was watching over, Jaune. I found him sitting on the ledge on a landing pad. A cold cup of coffee in his hand, and not a single thought in his mind... It was like his mind was no longer there, he was just relying on instinct. He was there for nearly an hour, I was sitting next to him during most of that time. it wasn't until I told him I was there, that he finally registered my presence. He didn't even notice the fact he was sitting on the ledge because until I pointed that out to him either.

Saphron: W-Was he going to...?

Winter: No! No no no! Nothing like that at all! He was just not paying attention. To anything.

Saphron: Oh thank gods...

Terra: You know I made him swear to never do that!

Saphron: I'm sorry, I can't help but worry about my little brother!

Winter: I can understand that myself. I started to shadow him as a means to ensure his safety, and asked his former teammates to keep an eye on him. They failed quite spectacularly.

Terra: How bad?

Winter: In an attempt to lighten, Jaune spirits... I decided to throw him a surprise birthday party...

Saphron: A surprise birthday party?

Winter: Yes, I was hoping to show him that he was appreciated, and not forgotten.

Saphron: Oh shit, she really likes him!

Terra: Holy hell...

Winter: And, well... n-no one showed up...

Terra: N-No one?

Saphron: Jaune had like... seven 'friends' did none of them seriously show up?

Winter: No... No one showed up. I sent a message through a friend of mine, but she... her computer had a system error, and none of the messages were sent.

Terra: Bloody hell! Did you even show up?!

Winter: No, my father pulled me away as he tried to marry me off to a man twice my age, again. So, I couldn't join him at the party.

Terra: Did your father really try, and do that to you?

Winter: It is not the first time he's tried to do that. Luckily, it will be the last time he ever does that.

Saphron: Did you give him a good punch to the face to get him to stop?!

Winter: No... someone... killed him...

ST: ...

Terra: D-Did you just say, what I think you said...?

Saphron: Jacques Schnee... is dead?

Winter: Yes, Jacques Schnee is dead.

ST: ...

Terra: We need to celebrate!

Saphron : Yeah! We need to make a cake! And, drink some wine to celebrate!

Terra: But, I can't have any.

Saphron: Oh, right... We'll just get more cake!

Terra: Yeah!

Winter: While I don't mind you celebrating, the investigation is still on going, so please don't mention it to anyone.

Saphron: Fine...

Terra: We're still having the cake.

Saphron: When did it happen?

Winter: It happened a few days ago, during a game of, 'Hide, and Go Seek.'

Terra: Oh I heard about that; Who won?

Winter: Jaune did.

Terra: Seriously?!

Saphron: So, Jaune won a game of hide, and go seek; So what's the big deal?

Terra: Because, the prize for being the last one found was, One Billion Lien!

Saphron: Seriously?! Jaune's a billionaire?! Why didn't he tell me?!

Winter: Jaune refused the prize, technically.

ST: He did?

Saphron: Why?

Winter: He gave it to the, Mantle defense fund, for repairing, and fortifying the walls around it. It was given as a, 'anonymous donation.'

Terra: Oh, how good of him.

Saphron: ...

Saphron: Did he keep any of it?

Terra: Saphron?!

Saphron: What?! I'm curious!

Winter: No, he did not. In fact, he didn't even care about winning. When her was informed he won he seemed dispassionate about it all. He was more concerned with his own personal game of chess, and his future, Hunter mission than any prize earrings.

Saphron: Oh, he wasn't doing well if he was playing chess. He usually does that when he's sad.

Winter: Yes, he explained that while we played a round.

Saphron: You played a game of chess against, Jaune?

Winter: Yes.

Saphron: How bad did you lose?

Winter: Horrifically.

Saphron: Ha! He is brutal at chess...

Winter: Yes, it was because of that game, I followed him on a solo mission he was taking. Both to protect him, and to see how he would deal with this, Grimm threat. Afterwards I offered him the possibility of joining the, Specialists. Jaune has accepted my offer, and has become an official member of the, Specialist.

Saphron: And, when was it you realized you have a crush on my little brother?

Winter: Uhh... well... I realized I had a crush on, Jaune when I was walking down a busy hall, and I saw that... that sash, and I thought, Jaune would like it. A-And, I started imaging his face when he opened it, how he would smile. And... and when I started thinking about these things... I realized I feel in love with him... and, that... I want to try...

Terra: Try? Try what pray tell...?

Winter: Try for an actual relationship; Me becoming his girlfriend, and Jaune becoming my boyfriend. I want to try for a genuine relationship. I've never felt this way for anyone before. I don't want to mess things up before it even begins. I don't know what to do...

ST: ...

Saphron: Winter, before I give you any advice I must know one thing.

Winter: Y-Yes...?

Saphron: Your cup size, what is it?

Winter: W-What?!

Saphron: How big are your boobs?

Terra: This is important information, Winter. We need to know!

Winter: I-I'm a D-Cup!

Terra: ...?

Saphron: Really...?

Winter: Yes! My uniform constraints them!

Saphron: That's a plausible excuse.

Terra: D Cup is still a good size.

Saphron: A good sign of fertility.

Winter: F-Fertility...?

Terra: Your mother will surely like her because of this.

Saphron: Very well! I will help you get together with my brother, Winter!

Winter: Really?!

Saphron: Yes! This is what you must do, pay attention, I'll only say this once!

Winter: Okay.

Saphron: Be blunt. None of this womanly being coy, and teasing to snag your man. Jaune may seem dense, but he has no experience with romance. So, if you play coy, he won't have any idea what you're doing, it will fly right over his head. So, if you want to get together with him: Tell him! Tell him to his face that you like him!

Terra: But, don't be too blunt of it, you may come off as desperate, and that will be too overbearing, and may push him away.

Saphron: Yeah, don't go over board, everyone finds that to be a turn off. Other than that...? I think that's it.

Winter: That's it? I expected you would tell me more than that.

Saphron: Jaune is a simple person. Broken... but simple. So if you show your honest sincerity with him, he may reciprocate your love for him in kind.

Winter: I understand. Thank you Ms. Cotta-Arc for your help.

Saphron: Oh please, just call me, Saphron.

Terra: And, just call me, Terra as well.

Winter: Very well, Terra, Saphron. Now then I must be off, there is work to be done. I hope to speak to you more in the future.

Saphron: Me too! Maybe we can all come together here for dinner; you, your siblings, your mom, your new boyfriend~!

Winter: B-Boyfriend...?!

Terra: Now dear, you don't have to start teasing her, yet~!

Winter: Yet?!

Terra: Well then, we best be going to feed, Adrian, I'll see you later, my rival~!

Winter: Wait, how am I your...?!

(Click!)

Saphron: Did you have to do that?

Terra: She wants to date, Jaune, I'm going to give her a little motivation~!

Saphron: Oh, really now? I suppose that's a good thing then. She looks like she needs a little push, maybe your declaration of rivalry will be a good kick to the pants to get her going.

Terra: And, if not we will use our secret weapon!

Saphron: We have a secret weapon?

Terra: Adrian.

Saphron: Oh... Oh that's good.

[redacted4life]

"We, With Wounded Hand." Card Analysis

All the card have this butterfly motif on them. Butterflies are associated with transformation, now it's obvious that Mizuki represent the butterfly because in Mizu5 the butterfly is flying away and in Ena5 the butterfly is flying back but the motif of transformation could also refer to their relationship, it's transforming from how it was from the beginning, how it was when the secret came out and how it is when they communicate to each about the secret.

The flower I think are suppose to be cherry blossoms, they represent life and death, beauty and violence. This meanings are very contracting to each other just like the contradiction to the themes expressed of the two event's cards. In mizu5, Mizuki had what one could call a panic attack, they felt it was a life ending experience, that it would be the death of their friendship to Niigo, that it would damage it beyond repair. In ena5 the flowers are blooming all around, it's beautiful, almost to express how Mizuki is beautiful even when they bloom, things can die but they can also be reborn into something new, death could mean so much and it doesn't alway have to be a bad thing, there is sometimes beauty in it like how their is beauty in in Mizuki's truth, Niigo's relationship has died in the sense that it's no longer the same as it was before but also been given a new life to it, it has changed and their's beauty in that.

In mizu5, Mizuki hides their eyes so they can be blind to the pain. In ena5, Mizuki still closes her eye but she's not wearing a blindfold but they're still closing her eyes, they're not trying to ignore the pain that they felt in the other card but they're still closes their eye because the pain they felt when their secret was announced before they were ready to say it can't be erased, the past can never be erased, the eyes close can serve as a relic to Mizu5.

Ena is reaching out to a flower because Mizuki see themself as the flower, ena's face in mizu5 card could be seen as sadness but also disgust, maybe Mizuki think that ena is disgust by their secret, maybe in Mizuki's point of view Ena is reaching out because that was the last thing Mizuki saw before leaving. However, in ena5 she reaching out to Mizuki because she see Mizuki for who they are, something that Mizuki should not be ashamed of, she reaching out to comfort her friend. The difference in both the hand reaching is that Mizu5 hand is hesitant while Ena5 there's not even a hint of hesitant showing character growth.

When I first saw Kanade card it reminded me of her colorfes card with the white flowers and looking away from a distance but I also noticed the opposing colour scheme with purple being the opposite of yellow, not sure if there's anything there. Also Kanade and Mafuyu as the 3 star of Mizu5 and Ena5 are both watching from a distance in their cards, the 3 star are kinda like a mirror of each other as Mafuyu looks to the right and Kanade looks to the left but even their outfits fit them, Mafuyu clothes are covering most of her skin, almost expressing her close off nature while Kanade show the skin on her arm and legs showing her nature of wanting to her music to reach others. Kanade card is more vibrant in it's colour while Mafuyu is more saturated, I love how polarising the cards are to each other like how the two event are different themes to the same story.

Both vocaloid have the main motif of the cards near their ear, Meiko is also looking at the the flower while Kaito is looking away from the flower showing the contrast in how they choose to deal with Mizuki's situation, Kaito look more cold in his approach while Meiko looks more gentle in her approach, like a perfect mirror to Mizuki and Mafuyu character's vs Kanade and Ena character's within the cards. Mafuyu and Mizuki were quick to close themselves off from their problems while Kanade and Ena were quick lend a hand and defend the other. Vocaloid are meant to represent the unit's characters even if in Niigo case, Mafuyu was the one who made the Sekai it still serve as a great representation of the two roles. I also think Meiko and Kaito were the perfect fit for choosen vocaloid, they are counterpart, similair to rin and len, and their hair fit the colour scheme with Mizu5 being mostly of a cooler colour scheme while Ena5 being mostly of a warmer colour scheme.

[lacamorte]

this. low maintenance friendship. while, yes, i will be a bit miffed if someone i consider close doesn't initiate contact with me for a while and the relationship feels one-sided, there are also friends that i can send something to bc it reminded me of them and we'll chat for like an hour, as if we saw each other a few days ago instead of years.

i love my friends immensely and maybe a bit too dearly! i'll be sad if they leave without a word, of course, but there are friendships that don't break so much as they become dormant. i have a friend from elementary who i haven't seen in years, but on occasion our paths will cross and it's like nothing ever changed. my mother's best friend lives in an entirely different country, and they're both awful with technology so they don't really text or call, but when her friend comes over they're just as close as when they separated. after college, my sister's friend group only meet 5 times a year during their respective birthdays, and they're still thriving.

there is honor, of course, in being the person someone talks to every day. but i think there is more honor in being the person someone feels safe enough to share something with, despite the distance. in fact, it feels like sometimes that distance is exactly why they feel safe talking to you. idk!! i just think its neat :))

Friendships as a teenager: we used to talk 5 hours every night now it’s down to 3… are we still friends 🤔? I wonder if they don’t like me anymore

Friendships as an adult: omg I’ve finally cleared up 20 minutes of my schedule to talk to my friend I haven’t spoken to in 4 months #bffs #we will find eachother in every life

[goddessxdivine]

Sydney and Carmen being perceived as strictly platonic doesn’t make sense

i think it’s easy for people to think that SydCarmy are just friends (surface level friends, at that) because we aren’t always shown their deeper moments. some people need to see it to believe it or can’t read between the lines. but the “they’re just friends” crew fail to acknowledge that in good romantic relationships, typically the couple are good friends too. like your significant other should also be someone you consider your good friend. platonic can lead to romantic easily and it happens often.

prior to Claire coming back into Carm’s life, he spent a lot of time with and talking to Syd. from talking about the menu to how they want the restaurant to be set up. they had months of talking. s2ep1 as they walk through the construction site that was currently the bear, Syd talks about the vibe between her and her dad being weird.

while we don’t see the very first conversation they had about her relationship with her dad, they’ve clearly talked about it to some extent before and now they’re talking about it in the restaurant.

the first time that they talk about their moms is in the restaurant. cooking/the restaurant links them and provides them safety in intimacy. this happens in a way that allows them to feel comfortable and present enough to speak about other important topics (ex: their parents).

they’ve built a connection that allows them to feel things like “you make me better at this” & “I wouldn’t even want to do it without you” and express it to each other. even if it was platonic, that doesn’t take away from it being deeply intimate.

why have Syd address the potential of her saying she wants his full focus and doesn’t think she should have to share it (with Claire) as something that could sound like shes romantically jealous.

cooking is an intimacy link for Syd and Carm and he’s going over their menu with Claire, he’s finally willing to consider the chaos menu that Syd’s been talking to him about for however long after he talks with Claire … honestly the way Carm treated Syd for Claire was a slap in the face at times.

it’s one thing for Carmen to leave her and the restaurant to go to an Al-Anon meeting (brigade). but for him to be blowing her off when they’re meant to go on their food tour or when they need to “talk napkins for real” to randomly hangout with Claire is different.

do i think Syd was actually jealous?

honestly she probably was a bit. especially at first. but more than jealous, i think she was probably hurt. their motivations for the way they want to prove themselves in their industry are deeply personal. Carmy is someone who she admires professionally and has gotten to know personally, yet he takes something that is important to the two of them then shares it with someone Syd doesn’t even know. Claire’s suggestions can influence their menu but with Syd’s ideas, he needs to think on it. like maybe it’s just me, but romantic or platonic, I’d feel ignored or doubted.

jealousy is something that can exist in friendships. from adolescence to adulthood, there is potential to feel like a close friend is leaving you behind, or spending more time with others, etc. and there are many forms of jealousy that can take place in a friendship. however with SydCarmy, the things that can be construed as jealousy surpass just friendship. there is an intimacy there that may not be seen in a platonic relationship.

[tj-dragonblade]

[Connect 4 FIC] Mementos

Fandom: The Sandman Pairing: Dreamling Rated: G Word Count: 1243 Tags: fluff, pre-relationship, future fic, photography

Notes: For the @sandman-connect4 prompts Goldfish and Photography

Summary: Hob waxes nostalgic about an old hobby that's also his newest career.

On AO3

"Photography is such an amazing innovation, yeah?" Hob snaps another photo as he speaks, capturing the elegant swish of orange and white fins just breaking the pond's surface. "Still marvel over it, sometimes, used to it as I am."

"Indeed." Dream is drifting along at Hob's side, interested and attentive, and Hob knows by now that no one nearby will pay any attention to his ramblings so long as Dream is here with his notice-me-not aura. He's free to speak of whatever he likes without fear of being overheard.

"Couldn't imagine, first I heard of it—a device to take your portrait, without having to sit for a painter? Unthinkable! But it was true!" He snaps another pic as a particularly elegant fantail wriggles past a lily pad. "Couldn't wait to get a daguerreotype taken; I still have it, stored away for safekeeping, along with every other portrait I had done in the nineteenth century. They just kept refining and improving on the process—it was amazing, y'know? How marvelous, this ability to capture an image exactly as seen, and it just kept getting better. Had plans to show you the latest I'd had done at our meeting in 1889, if I hadn't put my foot in it first." He snaps another photo, two fish swimming past one another in a graceful floating of fins, and keeps right on talking before Dream can offer any commentary on that particular phase of their friendship. It's water under the bridge, done and gone and forgiven and he doesn't need an apology every time it comes up.

"And then personal-use cameras became a thing, and the tech just kept improving. It was so exciting to have the ability—I could just, y'know, pick up a camera and take pictures of whatever I liked! Any time! People I'd eventually have to leave behind, I could keep pictures now, if I wanted. Don't always, y'know, I've gotten very good at picking up and moving on when needed and not pulling a bunch of baggage after me, but it's nice sometimes to have those photos there to look back on when the memory starts to fade."

Dream makes a soft sound of agreement as Hob crouches by the edge of the pond, snapping a few rapid-fire shots from the new lower angle.

"And then Polaroids! Didn't even have to send those out, just wait a few minutes and wave it about a bit. Instant pictures. Fantastic. And then digital cameras? Phone cameras? Video, of course? Nowadays everybody's got hundreds of photos in their pocket at any given second, everyone can record or commemorate anything in their life that they want at a moment's notice, and I think that's just brilliant." He grunts as he rises back to his feet, steps away from the perimeter of the pond to capture a wider shot.

"Spent a lot of time on photography as a hobby, middle of last century," he continues as he works. "Amazing how accessible it was. Learned how to develop my own film, which lenses could do what, played with anything I could get my hands on. It was just so cool."

"It was this time as a hobbyist that led you to your current career choice, then," Dream says, in a tone of dawning understanding.

"Yeah, more or less." Teaching had lasted him another decade and a half after Dream's return before he'd needed to pull up roots and reinvent himself, and his old hobby had called to him. "With the trending interest in reviving analog photography it seemed a decent choice after retiring 'Professor Gadling'. Wasn't hard to get hired; most of what I shoot for the magazine's still digital—most of their subscription distribution is digital—but they've got an analog branch catering to collectors and enthusiasts and lucky for me I'm proficient in all of it."

"The luck perhaps belongs to your employer, in securing your skills," Dream offers, with one of those little smiles that Hob so loves to collect. He offers a grin of his own.

"I'll be sure to tell them you said so in my next appraisal."

"And do all of your assignments involve photographing fish?"

Hob laughs. "Nah, course not—it's a lifestyle-and-interest publication; I wind up shooting all sorts of things. This guy's been maintaining his ponds here for decades—probably knew that already, didn't you—and they wanted to do a feature on it. I was chuffed to get the assignment; I've been fascinated by pond building and maintenance for a few years now and I'm pleased to see this fabulous setup in person."

Dream says nothing, studying the pond in uncanny stillness as Hob takes a few more photos.

"Lovely creatures," he says at last.

"Aren't they?"

"They remind me of my sister."

"The one who—?" Hob makes a sweeping gesture with one hand meant to indicate himself and his whole still-alive thing.

"No; the youngest." Dream crouches, dangles fingertips in the water. "They often feature in the way that perception alters around her."

Hob waits to see if anything further is forthcoming, then tucks that small piece of information away to hopefully be expanded upon at a later date. He's learned much about Dream in the last couple decades by paying attention when these little dribs and drabs of personal information are offered and waiting patiently for the next.

He pauses in his photographing, glances sideways down at his friend. "What do their dreams look like, then? Do fish even sleep?"

"Not as such. Not as humans do." Dream wriggles his fingers, once, the surface rippling gently in their wake. "Their dreams are fleeting, gossamer; ephemeral wisps of comfortable waters, of safety, of plenty." There are fish approaching to nibble at Dream's fingertips, orandas and comets and ryukins; Hob watches for a moment then pulls out his phone and snaps a picture, for himself.

Dream catches the change of equipment, glances up with another of those little smiles—indulgent. Hob snaps again, pleased to have proof of that smile, pleased that Dream is present enough in the Waking today to be captured by the camera.

"Oh, look at this fellow," he says, motioning to a large black moor that is swimming up to investigate Dream's fingertips, and slips his phone back into his pocket.

"A beautiful specimen," Dream allows, holding perfectly still while the fish mouths at one finger and then another. "His color is exquisite."

Hob grins. "Must sense a fellow goth in you." He lifts his work camera again, snaps a few of the lovely black fish after Dream has reclaimed his hand.

"Perhaps." Dream's still got that little smile, and Hob remains absolutely delighted to see it.

"C'mon. Let's go see what Mr. Goldfish-Enthusiast has got in his koi pond, over here."

The rest of the afternoon passes pleasantly, more fish photographed, more stories of Hob's past told. And in his pocket, safe in his phone, there are two new pictures of Dream to remind him of his friend when absences stretch long, as they sometimes must. It is comforting, after everything and all these centuries, to know that he's allowed these mementos. He's confident by now that Dream will always return; they have met more in the last twenty years than in the six hundred before and Hob is elated that the friendship he'd recklessly claimed in 1889 has blossomed so wonderfully in truth.

But it's nice he's got the pictures to prove it.

= Started: 11/21/24 Drafted: 11/29/24 Posted: 11/30/24

[sherewrytes]

ꜰʀᴀᴄᴛᴜʀᴇᴅ Gojo x Black Fem reader

↳ Satoru Gojo x f! black reader

In Tokyo's underground music scene, Exxor is on the verge of global fame, but beneath the glitz, emotions run wild. Lead singer Satoru Gojo shines in the spotlight, while bassist Suguru Geto battles his dark past and unspoken love for Y/N, a rising fashion designer. Their shared history is fraught with tension, especially now that Y/N is falling for Gojo. As her career catapults her into the global fashion arena, old feelings resurface, threatening to unravel the band and their fragile friendships. Can they navigate the chaos of fame, or will their secrets tear them apart?

Genre: Romantic Drama, Psychological Fiction

Content warnings:

Substance Abuse, Toxic Relationships, Unrequited Love, Mental Health Issues

Song for chapter: Afterlife by Nothing but thieves

Chapter 1: The Beginning of Chaos

The venue was alive. The low hum of excited chatter, the flickering lights, and the scent of sweat, alcohol, and stale smoke filled the air. The underground music scene of Tokyo had always been electric, but tonight, it felt like something more. Exxor, the band that had become a legend in the making, was finally hitting their stride. Their sound reverberated against the walls of the small but packed venue, the vibrations pulsing through the crowd like a heartbeat.

Y/N leaned against the bar, nursing a drink that had long since gone warm, her eyes locked on the stage. The spotlights danced across the stage, casting long shadows that illuminated the band’s silhouettes. It had been a while since she’d seen them perform live, and tonight, there was something different in the air—an intensity that seemed to vibrate with every note played.

Geto stood center stage, his bare chest gleaming under the lights, his tattoos a tapestry of dark ink that seemed to tell stories only he knew. His fingers moved with effortless grace across the neck of his guitar, every chord a part of him. The strings hummed under his touch, as if the instrument itself recognized his mastery. Each solo was like a conversation between him and the crowd—intimate, raw, and undeniably powerful. His usual indifference to the audience only made the connection feel deeper, more personal.

The crowd was fixated on him, and why wouldn’t they be? The women around Y/N were swooning, their whispers a mix of awe and desire. “God, look at his tattoos,” one girl murmured. “He’s just… so dangerous. I swear he’s the reason I started playing guitar.” Another giggled, her voice breathless, “I’d let him tattoo me anywhere.”

Y/N couldn’t help but roll her eyes, though a part of her—one that she buried deep—understood the pull. Geto was magnetic. There was no denying it. But tonight, she wasn’t here for the fantasies. She was here to see him. To see if the man she once knew was still hiding somewhere behind that stage persona.

The rhythm of the music shifted, and all eyes turned to Gojo, the lead singer, who sauntered to the front of the stage with his signature swagger. The crowd went wild, and Y/N could practically feel the heat rising around her as women screamed his name, their hands reaching out in desperate attempts to touch him.

Gojo didn’t flinch. His voice, smooth and sultry, filled the room, every note dripping with charisma. “Tokyo!” he called out, the mic reverberating with the power of his voice. “Are you ready to lose yourselves?”

The women around Y/N gasped, clutching their chests as Gojo’s voice rolled over them like velvet, coaxing them into a feverish frenzy. Y/N’s friend Chanté, who had dragged her to this concert tonight, was no exception. Chanté had always been the one to fall for the rockstar allure, and tonight was no different. She stood with her hand pressed to her heart, gazing at Gojo with the kind of awe only a fan could understand.

“Oh my god, Nanami is so fine,” Chanté swooned, her voice catching in the air as Nanami, the drummer, caught the light. He was a study in stoic beauty, his muscles rippling with every strike of the drums.

Y/N smirked. “You’re here for the wrong guy, Chan.”

Chanté laughed, her eyes sparkling as she waved her hand dismissively. “Right. But I do have eyes, Y/N.”

The music surged forward, a thundering wave of sound that pulled the crowd even deeper into its grip. But for Y/N, her focus was solely on Geto, who seemed lost in his own world as his guitar wailed in the background. His eyes were closed, his lips barely moving as he played—lost in the moment, lost in the music, and maybe even lost in something else. She couldn’t tell, not anymore.

The guitar solo intensified, every note sharp and searing, and Y/N felt it deep in her chest. The bass, heavy and driving, rumbled under her ribs. The beat of the drums seemed to pulse through her veins, syncing with her heartbeat. It wasn’t just the music. It was Geto’s presence—his raw, untamed energy that made the performance feel like it was meant just for her.

She wanted to scream, to reach out and pull him back from whatever dark place he’d buried himself in. But the distance between them—both physical and emotional—was too vast. And as much as she wanted to fight it, she couldn’t ignore the pull. The old feelings were coming back, unbidden and fierce, and she wasn’t sure she could control them this time.

As the final notes rang out and the crowd erupted into applause, Y/N stood still, her heart racing, her mind spinning with a thousand thoughts. She didn’t care about the praise. She didn’t care about the fans. She just needed to see him again.

Chanté elbowed her, snapping her from her trance. “You’re not gonna just stand there, are you?” she asked, her voice teasing. “Go say hi to the man.”

Y/N glanced over at the backstage entrance, the one Geto had disappeared through moments before. There was a flicker of hesitation in her chest, but before she could answer, she was already heading toward it.

Backstage was a different world altogether. The lights were dim, and the air smelled of sweat, beer, and cheap cologne. Crew members rushed around, packing up gear, but Y/N’s eyes were locked on the narrow doorway that led into the band’s private area.

She hesitated outside the door, her hand resting on the cold metal handle, unsure if she should follow. The noise from the crowd still buzzed in her ears, but it was drowned out by the sound of her own heartbeat. She stepped forward, taking a deep breath, and then she saw him—Geto, standing just inside the doorway, talking with someone, his back to her. He was shirtless, his muscular frame only accentuated by the dim light. The tattoos on his arms and chest seemed to tell their own stories—stories she couldn’t quite read but felt.

“Geto,” she called softly, taking another step closer.

He turned, his gaze catching hers for a moment before his lips pressed into a thin line. The usual indifference was there, but there was something more behind his eyes—something Y/N couldn’t decipher.

“Y/N,” he greeted her, his voice cool, guarded. “You came?”

“I came to see you,” she replied, her tone softer than she’d intended. “You’re still amazing.”

He gave a small, tight-lipped smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “I’ve got to go in,” he said, his voice not quite a whisper, but not loud enough to pierce the tension.

Y/N felt her chest tighten. She wanted to ask him a million things—about his life, about his silence, about what had happened to them—but instead, she found herself frozen. The words wouldn’t come.

Geto’s gaze softened for just a second, but he turned away before she could say anything else. He stepped into the backstage area, disappearing from her sight.

As the door swung closed behind him, Gojo appeared from the shadows, leaning casually against the wall, arms crossed, a playful smirk on his face.

“Who was that fan you were talking to after the show?” he asked, his voice smooth and teasing, laced with curiosity.

There was a pause before Geto spoke, his voice low and deliberate. “That wasn’t just some fan. That’s Y/N.”

Gojo’s smirk faltered for a moment, a flicker of surprise crossing his face. “Y/N? The designer? Obsydian?”

“Yeah,” Geto muttered, his tone darkening. “We’ve known each other for years.”

Gojo’s eyes glinted with interest. “Didn’t think she’d be the type to show up at gigs like this.”

Before Geto could respond, Nanami’s dry voice interjected, always cutting through the tension. “She’s not. She’s the type that shows up for the people she cares about. Not for the show.”

Gojo shot a glance at Nanami, his grin faltering just a bit, before he turned his attention back to Geto, the teasing tone still strong. “So, what, you're being protective now? You sure she’s not just another fan to you?”

Geto’s expression hardened as he shot Gojo a sharp look. “I’m not playing this game with you,” he muttered, voice low but carrying a certain weight. “Don’t mess with her, Gojo. She’s not like the rest.”

Gojo tilted his head, the smirk never leaving his face, but there was something more calculating behind his eyes now. “What’s that supposed to mean?” His voice was teasing, but there was an underlying tension. “You’re really gonna pull the ‘protective’ card on me, Geto? You know I’m not interested in anything that’s gonna get messy.”

Before Geto could respond, Nanami stepped forward, arms folded. “Alright, enough of this,” he said, cutting through the tension between the two with his usual no-nonsense attitude. “We’ve got to pack up. They’re kicking us out in fifteen.”

Gojo raised his hands in mock surrender. “Fine, fine. But you owe me an answer next time, Geto,” he teased, before stepping back, his voice laced with a lingering challenge.

Geto didn’t respond, his focus entirely on the task at hand. He turned toward the equipment, intent on getting everything ready for the road. But Nanami didn’t let him off the hook so easily.

As Geto gathered his things, Nanami pulled him aside, out of earshot from Gojo. He reached into his pocket, pulling out a cigarette and a lighter, offering them to Geto with a raised brow. “I thought you stopped,” he said, his tone flat but carrying a touch of concern.

Geto took the cigarette with a sharp glance, his face unreadable. He lit it with practiced ease before taking a slow drag, his eyes narrowing as the smoke curled in the air.

“I’m not getting into that now, Nanami,” Geto muttered, exhaling the smoke. “Let’s just pack up.”

Nanami sighed, clearly not buying the explanation but not pressing further. “Alright, man. But you know I’m here if you want to talk.”

“Let’s just get to work,” Geto repeated, his tone closing off any further discussion.

Nanami watched him for a moment, his gaze lingering on Geto’s tense posture before he nodded and turned away. “Fine. But don’t shut everyone out, alright?”

As Geto turned back to finish packing, the weight of his unspoken thoughts settled over him like a dark cloud. The tension in his chest, the old wounds that had never fully healed, and the way Y/N had looked at him tonight—it all felt like too much, too fast. But there was no time to dwell on it now. Not with the band still counting on him.

He crushed out the cigarette, flicking it into the trash with a finality that mirrored the emotions he was trying to bury.

Your POV

The backstage area was a chaotic mix of equipment, empty water bottles, and half-eaten snacks. The air was heavy with the remnants of sweat and adrenaline, and the warm hum of post-performance chatter filled the space. The string lights hanging overhead cast a dim, golden glow, their flickering adding to the room’s lived-in, underground charm.

You walked in with Chanté trailing behind, her excitement practically spilling over as she clutched her phone like a lifeline.

“Oh my God,” she breathed, her eyes darting around like a hawk. “Y/N, do you see him? Nanami is right there. Look at him! He’s just standing there, cleaning his drumsticks like a Greek god.”

You suppress a laugh, nudging her lightly. “Relax, Chanté. He’s just a guy.”

“No,” she hissed, gripping your arm for emphasis. “He’s the guy. And I’m manifesting a conversation. Don’t stop me.”

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t help a small smile. Her enthusiasm was infectious, even if you had other priorities. Your gaze swept the room, searching for a familiar figure.

“Do you see Geto anywhere?” you asked, trying to sound casual.

Chanté barely spared you a glance, too busy angling her phone for what she hoped was a discreet picture of Nanami. “What? Oh, Geto? Nope. But Gojo’s right there.”

She tilted her head toward the corner, and your eyes followed.

Satoru Gojo stood leaning against a wall, his silver hair damp and gleaming under the string lights. He looked effortlessly composed, dressed in a sleeveless black shirt that clung to his lean frame. His voice carried across the room as he laughed at something Shoko had said, the sound deep and magnetic.

Your eyes lingered for a moment too long, and before you could look away, his gaze shifted to you. Piercing blue eyes locked onto yours, and the corners of his mouth quirked up into a small, knowing smile. He said something to Shoko, who glanced your way and smirked before walking off.

And then he was moving toward you.

“Wow,” he said, stopping in front of you, his voice smooth and deliberate. “Suguru didn’t mention his friend was this stunning.”

You raised an eyebrow, meeting his gaze without flinching. “And you must be the famous Satoru Gojo.”

Chanté let out a muffled squeal beside you, and you shot her a look that screamed not now.

“The one and only,” he said with a grin, leaning slightly closer. “Did you enjoy the show?”

“It was good,” you replied, keeping your tone measured. “Great, actually. I came to see Suguru, though.”

He hummed, his eyes flicking over your face like he was trying to piece together a puzzle. “Suguru, huh? That explains why you don’t seem too starstruck.”

“Should I be?” you asked, tilting your head slightly.

His grin widened. “Only if you have good taste.”

You almost rolled your eyes at his audacity but stopped yourself. There was something undeniably charming about him, even if he was laying it on thick.

Before you could reply, Chanté grabbed your arm. “Oh my God, Nanami’s alone now! This is my chance!”

She didn’t wait for a response, darting off in the direction of the drummer like a woman on a mission.

Gojo chuckled, watching her go. “Your friend’s got guts.”

“She’s persistent,” you said, shaking your head.

He turned his attention back to you, the teasing light in his eyes softening just a fraction. “So, what brings you here, Y/N? Besides Suguru, I mean.”

“I needed to talk to him about some work stuff,” you admitted. “He models for my brand, and we’re prepping for some upcoming shoots.”

“Obsydian, right?” he asked, his voice dropping slightly.

You blinked, surprised. “You know my brand?”

He smirked. “I have good taste, remember? Your designs are hard to miss.”

You didn’t know whether to be flattered or suspicious. “And yet you’re surprised I’m here.”

“Well,” he said, leaning casually against the wall beside you, “someone as polished as you doesn’t exactly scream underground gigs. But I like the contradiction.”

Before you could respond, the sound of approaching footsteps caught your attention. Geto appeared from a side door, his dark hair pulled back into a loose bun, and his gaze immediately found you.

“There you are,” he said, his voice low and steady. His eyes flicked briefly to Gojo, his expression tightening. “I see you’ve met.”

“Getting acquainted,” Gojo said with a grin, pushing off the wall.

Geto stepped closer, his presence grounding in a way that was entirely different from Gojo’s. “You okay?” he asked you directly.

“I’m fine,” you said. “I was looking for you.”

“Good,” he replied, nodding. “I’ll be back in a second. We need to finish packing up.”

As if on cue, Nanami’s voice cut through the room. “We’re on the clock here. They’re kicking us out.”

Geto sighed, glancing at you one last time. “Wait here. I’ll find you when I’m done.”

With that, he walked off toward Nanami, leaving you alone with Gojo once more.

“I could use a hand,” Gojo said suddenly, nodding toward a stack of cables near the stage. “Unless you’ve got somewhere else to be.”

You hesitated for a moment, but curiosity—and maybe a bit of intrigue—got the better of you. “Sure. Why not?”

“Careful,” he teased as you followed him. “Helping out might make you part of the crew.”

Gojo handed you a coil of cables, his movements easy but efficient, like someone who had done this a thousand times. The backstage area was starting to clear out as roadies packed equipment into cases and wheeled them out toward the waiting vans.

You glanced around at the controlled chaos before looking back at him. “So… can I ask you something?”

“Shoot,” he said, crouching down to untangle a stubborn knot in a cord.

You hesitated, choosing your words carefully. “Why do you guys still play underground gigs like this? I mean, you’re obviously growing fast. Your name’s everywhere lately.”

Gojo looked up at you, his piercing blue eyes catching the warm glow of the string lights. For a moment, he didn’t say anything, just studied you like you’d asked something deeply personal.

Finally, he leaned back on his heels, his lips curving into a small, thoughtful smile. “Because this is where it started. Where it feels real. Out there,” he gestured toward the empty stage, “you can feel the energy. The rawness of it. These are the people who’ve been with us from the start.”

You nodded, thinking about his words. “But doesn’t it get... limiting? I mean, you’re on the verge of something huge. Bigger venues, bigger crowds. Aren’t you worried about outgrowing this?”

Gojo chuckled, standing up and tossing the cables into a case. “You sound like Nanami.”

“Oh yeah?” you asked, leaning against a nearby speaker.

He gave you a conspiratorial smile. “He’s always on my case about logistics. Bigger venues, tighter schedules, all that. But music isn’t just logistics. It’s about moments. Nights like this. You don’t get the same vibe playing at some sanitized corporate arena.”

You tilted your head, considering his perspective. “I guess that makes sense. Obsydian started small, too. There’s something special about those early days, even if they’re chaotic.”

“Obsydian,” Gojo repeated, his voice dropping slightly as he tested the word on his tongue. “You know, I can see it now. Your designs have that same raw, unapologetic energy.”

You raised an eyebrow, fighting the urge to smirk. “Raw and unapologetic, huh?”

He leaned against the speaker beside you, close but not overstepping. “Absolutely. It’s got edge, but it’s refined. Like you know exactly what you’re doing but don’t care if it makes people uncomfortable.”

That caught you off guard, his insight sharper than you expected. “Not bad for a guy who spends his nights screaming into a mic.”

He laughed, the sound warm and rich, before giving you a playful nudge. “You’re underestimating me. I’ve got layers.”

“Do you now?” you asked, crossing your arms.

“More than you’d think,” he said, his tone half-teasing but with an undercurrent of sincerity.

The moment hung between you, charged but easy, until Chanté’s voice broke through.

“Y/N! I just got a picture with Nanami!” she squealed, waving her phone as she practically skipped toward you. “And he smiled at me. Smiled. Do you know how rare that is?”

You bit back a laugh, shaking your head. “Congrats, Chanté. Sounds like your night’s made.”

“It so is,” she gushed, barely noticing Gojo until she finally turned to him. “Oh! You’re Gojo. You guys were amazing tonight!”

“Thanks,” he said smoothly, flashing her his signature grin.

“Alright, we should go,” you said, giving Chanté a pointed look. “You’ve got your picture, and I’ve got work tomorrow.”

“Work? Already?” Gojo asked, his gaze sliding back to you.

“Running a brand doesn’t stop,” you replied lightly.

He gave a low whistle, clearly impressed. “Guess I’ll have to catch you next time, then.”

You glanced at him, noting the way his smile held just a hint of challenge. “Maybe,” you said, turning toward the door with Chanté. “If I’m not too busy.”

As you walked away, you could feel his eyes on you, his presence lingering even as the chaos of the backstage began to fade into the night.

As you walked toward the exit, you could feel Gojo’s gaze trailing after you. Even with the din of backstage chatter and equipment being packed away, his attention was tangible, almost magnetic. Chanté rambled excitedly beside you about her brief interaction with Nanami, but your mind wandered back to the casual yet electric exchange with Gojo.

Behind you, Gojo leaned casually against the wall, arms crossed, a slight smirk tugging at his lips as he watched you disappear into the night.

“Interesting,” he muttered to himself, more amused than anything.

But curiosity quickly turned into action. Pushing off the wall, he strolled over to where Geto and Nanami stood, still packing up.

Geto was busy coiling a cable, his shirt still unbuttoned, exposing the tattoos that had drawn so much attention earlier. Nanami had already slipped into his usual blazer, somehow looking more like a corporate worker than a rock band drummer.

Gojo’s voice broke the relative silence. “Hey, Nanami. Got a sec?”

Nanami gave him a sidelong glance but kept folding a drum stand into its case. “What do you want, Gojo?”

“I need a favor.”

Nanami paused, glancing at him fully now. “I’m not buying you another round of drinks.”

“Not that,” Gojo said, his grin widening. “The girl who was just here—Y/N, right? Can I get her number?”

The request earned a sharp look from Geto, who froze mid-motion. His expression darkened, though he quickly masked it by turning back to the cable in his hands.

Nanami, however, sighed and shook his head. “Why would I have her number?”

“Don’t lie, Nanami,” Gojo teased. “I saw you two talking after the show. You’ve got it.”

Nanami rolled his eyes and tossed the folded stand into a nearby case. “Even if I did, why would I give it to you?”

“Because I’m charming and trustworthy?” Gojo offered, grinning as he held out his phone.

“Because you’re a pain in my ass,” Nanami muttered, grabbing Gojo’s phone and quickly typing something in.

Satisfied, Gojo took back the device, inspecting the contact information like it was some kind of trophy. “Appreciate it. You’re a real team player, Nanami.”

Nanami didn’t reply, already moving to pack up another piece of equipment.

Geto’s voice cut through the moment, low and edged. “How do you even know her?”

Gojo blinked, looking between the two of them. “I don’t—yet. That’s kind of the point, isn’t it?”

Nanami shot Geto a pointed look but said nothing, choosing to ignore the question as he focused on packing.

Suguru’s jaw tightened as he turned his attention back to his work, his movements more forceful than necessary.

“Anyway,” Gojo continued, blissfully unaware—or pretending to be—of the tension brewing. “Guess I’ll see where this goes.”

Suguru didn’t reply, but the glare he sent Nanami’s way was impossible to miss.

Your POV

The night air was crisp as you stepped out of the venue with Chanté, the muffled sounds of the bustling Tokyo streets creating a comforting backdrop. Chanté was practically glowing, still riding the high of her Nanami encounter.

“I swear, Y/N, I felt him smile in my soul,” she gushed, clutching her phone like a sacred artifact. “He’s got that ‘mysterious but secretly sweet’ vibe. You think he’s single?”

You gave her a side-eye, smirking. “You’re really asking me? I thought you’d already planned your wedding.”

“I have,” she declared dramatically. “He just doesn’t know it yet.”

Shaking your head, you adjusted the strap of your bag, your mind drifting back to the band—specifically, the enigmatic mix of personalities that was Exxor.

It wasn’t your first time watching Geto perform, but something about tonight felt different. Maybe it was seeing him in his element, effortlessly commanding attention with every note he played. Or maybe it was the unspoken tension between you, still unresolved after everything.

And then there was Gojo. His confidence bordered on arrogance, but there was something undeniably intriguing about him. The way he looked at you, like he was already piecing together your story, left an impression you couldn’t shake.

“You’re quiet,” Chanté noted, pulling you from your thoughts.

“Just thinking,” you said, offering her a small smile.

“About Geto?” she asked knowingly, nudging you with her elbow.

You hesitated, considering how much to say. “Not just him.”

Her eyebrows shot up. “Wait, is this about Gojo? The fine-as-hell lead singer with the eyes?”

“Chanté,” you warned, but your laugh betrayed you.

“I knew it!” she exclaimed. “Girl, if you don’t slide in there, I swear—”

You groaned, cutting her off. “It’s not like that. I was just helping him pack up. That’s all.”

“Mhm,” she said, clearly unconvinced.

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t help the small smile tugging at your lips. As much as you wanted to focus on business—on why you’d come to the show in the first place—there was no denying the spark of something new.

Whether it was curiosity, intrigue, or something else entirely, you weren’t sure. But something told you this wouldn’t be the last time you crossed paths with Satoru Gojo.

Suguru's POV

The night had rolled into an easy rhythm, the adrenaline of the show still hanging in the air. Gojo, ever the social butterfly, was buzzing around, chatting with everyone, including you. His flirtations were obvious, but he wore them like a badge of honor, no shame in the way he leaned toward you, his bright grin aimed squarely at you.

Suguru watched it all unfold, his guitar case still gripped tightly in his hands as if it were the only thing keeping him grounded. He hadn’t expected tonight to hit him this hard. It wasn’t even the playful banter between you and Gojo—it was the way Gojo looked at you. Like he saw something worth pursuing. Suguru hadn’t been prepared for that.

Gojo’s voice cut through his thoughts as he sauntered over to Geto, hands shoved deep in his pockets.

"Yo, Geto," Gojo grinned, that familiar cocky smirk playing at the corner of his lips. "You mind giving me her number?"

Suguru blinked, a subtle tension pulling at his jaw. He knew exactly who Gojo was talking about. And Gojo—of all people—had the audacity to ask? Suguru’s fingers clenched harder around his guitar case, his muscles coiling like a snake ready to strike.

But Geto didn’t even look up. He didn’t acknowledge Gojo’s request, not even a twitch. Suguru could feel the faint sting of frustration in the air—the unspoken tension—before Geto slowly turned his gaze toward the stage. He wasn’t going to answer.

Gojo, always persistent, didn’t take the silent rejection to heart. Instead, his attention shifted to Nanami, who had been standing quietly at the side, observing the scene with his usual calm demeanor.

“Yo, Nanami,” Gojo called, his voice oozing with that playful charm that Suguru hated to see directed at you. “You got her number?”

Nanami, ever the mediator, glanced at Suguru for a brief moment, and Suguru’s heart skipped a beat. Nanami’s eyes flicked back to Gojo, and for the slightest second, Suguru could have sworn he saw something like pity in his gaze. But Nanami only shrugged, exhaling sharply before pulling his phone out of his pocket.

“I guess I can’t stop you from pestering me.” Nanami handed Gojo the phone with a small, wry smile, tapping in a few digits before passing it over.

Suguru’s stomach twisted in a way he wasn’t sure how to process. He hadn’t expected Nanami to cave, though a part of him knew—deep down—that Nanami probably saw it coming. The connection between Gojo and you, the chemistry that was undeniable, had already sparked something in Nanami. He probably knew it was only a matter of time before Gojo made a move.

But Suguru? He wasn’t ready for this. Not yet.

Gojo’s eyes lit up when he received the number, like a kid who’d just been handed the keys to a treasure chest. “Thanks, man,” he said with a grin that stretched a little too wide, a grin that made Suguru’s insides churn.

Suguru’s gaze narrowed, and the pit of his stomach tightened painfully as he watched Gojo dial your number. He couldn’t tear his eyes away, even though every part of him screamed to look away. His breath caught when Gojo’s finger hovered over the send button. It wasn’t just Gojo getting your number that burned. It was everything about it—about how easy it was for him, how much he didn’t have to fight for it, how easily Gojo could slip into your world.

Without a word, Suguru’s eyes flicked toward Nanami. But the second he did, he felt it—the weight of that glance.

Nanami didn’t meet Suguru’s gaze directly. He didn’t need to. Suguru could already feel the weight of the decision, the unspoken words hanging between them. He knew Nanami wasn’t going to pull back. Nanami wasn’t the type to make things more complicated than they had to be, especially now. Suguru had made his choices, after all.

But that didn’t stop the flash of anger from crossing Suguru’s face. It wasn’t just frustration with Gojo. It was with himself—his own lack of action, his inability to fight for what he wanted when he still could. Instead, he had let the distance grow between him and you until it felt like the gap couldn’t be bridged.

The moment Nanami handed over your number, Suguru’s glare shot across the room, landing squarely on Nanami. It wasn’t just anger that was there; it was hurt—raw, unrefined—lingering in the back of Suguru’s chest.

Nanami, to his credit, didn’t back down. He met Suguru’s gaze with nothing but calm. But Suguru could see it in his eyes—his understanding.

The intensity of the moment hung heavy in the air, like the calm before a storm. Suguru’s heart was racing, but he kept his thoughts to himself, knowing that showing even a hint of vulnerability in front of Nanami wasn’t something he could afford right now. Not when everything felt like it was slipping through his fingers.

The low hum of the backstage area faded as everyone scrambled to pack up their instruments. Nanami was the first to fold up his guitar case, methodically, as always. Shoko was already off to the side, gathering the gear for the bass, her eyes scanning the group.

"You know," Shoko said, her voice bright but laced with a hint of sarcasm, "we should hit up a bar. It’s been a long night. Celebrate the show, yeah?"

Gojo grinned, eyes lighting up at the prospect of more fun. "Hell yeah, I know a great lounge. It’s got this chill vibe, great drinks, and the crowd’s always perfect."

Shoko rolled her eyes, nudging him with her shoulder. “Of course you know a ‘great lounge,’ Gojo. You probably know the bartender by name.”

"I mean, what can I say?" Gojo shrugged, not an ounce of shame on his face. "I’ve got connections."

“Oh please,” Shoko muttered, laughing as she made a show of checking her watch. “We’re really doing this? You guys can’t be serious about hitting up some lounge after this?”

Suguru, who had been standing quietly to the side, watching the back-and-forth like it was a familiar routine, exhaled sharply. He hadn’t been in the mood for loud, crowded places tonight. All he wanted was to be alone, to finally breathe. The energy in the room felt suffocating, thick with unspoken words and the weight of his own internal struggle.

Without saying a word, he grabbed his jacket and slipped out of the room, ignoring the playful arguing behind him. He didn’t need to be part of that right now. The cool night air hit him as he stepped outside, the city lights flickering against the darkness. He lit a cigarette, the smoke curling around him, offering a brief moment of clarity.

As he took a long drag, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out absently, fingers numb from the cold. The message on his screen made his stomach drop.

It was nice to see you, Su...

The familiar words hit him like a punch to the gut. Su. The name you’d used for him ever since the day you’d learned his full name—when the two of you had crossed that invisible line from friends with benefits into something more complicated. Something deeper. And now it was just… Su. Nothing more.

Suguru's chest tightened, a bitter wave of nausea rising as he stared at the screen. He could practically hear your voice saying it—soft, warm, a bit teasing—but now? It felt like something was slipping through his fingers, and he couldn’t stop it. Couldn’t change it.

It was too much.

He gripped the phone in his hand, staring at your name, your number blinking back at him, and it all just felt so fucking heavy. The way you’d once looked at him, the way you’d smiled, and now, it was all just... too far gone. And yet here it was, the ghost of the past knocking at his door, reminding him of everything he had let slip away.

A pang of regret twisted deep in his gut. He couldn’t help but feel that everything had spiraled out of control the moment he cut things off with you, like he’d slammed the door shut on something that could’ve been worth holding onto.

Suguru took another drag of his cigarette, trying to push the bitter taste of your message down. But it was impossible. It felt like a weight on his chest, something he couldn’t shake.

He didn’t want to be the guy who still thought about you. Didn’t want to be that person, but here he was, replaying every word you’d ever said to him, every look, every fucking touch. And it hurt, more than he wanted to admit.

He felt the vibration of his phone again, and for a split second, he thought it might be you. But when he checked it, it was just Gojo, sending him a text about the bar they were heading to. The group was already on their way out.

Suguru quickly pocketed his phone, stubbing out the cigarette on the pavement. He didn’t feel like heading to the bar anymore, didn’t feel like being surrounded by the noise, the fun.

He stood for a moment longer, letting the cold air fill his lungs before he finally turned back toward the venue, following the others inside. The buzzing sound of the city drowned out as he walked through the back door, the familiar chatter and laughter of the group slowly pulling him back into the moment. But inside, it was different. He could feel it—how disconnected he was from everyone, from everything.

And then he saw Gojo, flashing that grin, the same easygoing charm that made everyone gravitate toward him. Suguru couldn’t help but think about how easily Gojo moved through the world. How effortlessly Gojo could get you—get anyone—without a second thought.

He didn’t need to look at Nanami to know that he could see the shift in Suguru, the subtle tension that had settled into his posture, the way he suddenly couldn’t stop thinking about you.

Suguru let out a shaky breath, forcing a smile onto his face as he slipped into the group’s banter, pushing the thoughts of you and your message to the back of his mind, at least for now. But as they all headed to the lounge, he couldn’t shake the feeling that tonight, everything was about to change.

Suguru walked through the quiet streets, the weight of the night pressing down on him. He should have gone to the bar with the others, should have stayed with the group, but his mind was too heavy, and his chest too tight. The thoughts of you, that message, all of it—it felt like the world had tilted and he was hanging on by a thread, one that was too thin to keep his grip on.

When he reached his apartment, he didn’t even bother to turn on the lights. The darkness felt more comfortable, the shadows wrapping around him like a familiar embrace. The door clicked shut behind him, and he walked straight to the balcony, the cool air outside welcoming him.

He slid the door open and stepped outside, the night almost too still, too quiet. He needed a moment to breathe, to clear his head. He lit a cigarette, the flame flickering briefly before the smoke began to curl in the night air. Suguru leaned against the balcony railing, looking out over the city, the faint hum of distant cars and the occasional shout of someone drunk on a Thursday night. The lights of the city were distant and cold, the buzz of the world outside not quite matching the chaos inside his head.

The words you’d sent him earlier replayed in his mind, echoing in his thoughts like a broken record. It was nice to see you, Su... The name you’d called him since university days, a nickname that felt too tender now, too intimate. Su... He could hear it in his mind, the way you said it, soft and sweet, like it still meant something.

He ran a hand through his hair, staring out at the skyline, trying to push the thoughts of you away. He should’ve texted you back, told you something, anything, about how he felt. But he couldn’t bring himself to do it. It had been too long since he'd let himself go there—since he'd let himself feel something real. And now... now it was too late. Or at least, that’s how it felt.

His thumb hovered over the screen of his phone, lingering over your name, the temptation to send something just to hear your voice, to feel that connection again, nearly suffocating. But he didn’t.

Instead, he took another drag from his cigarette, the smoke leaving his lungs, his eyes stinging slightly from the burn. The song playing faintly from the apartment next door—Thursday by The Weeknd—reached his ears, the melancholic lyrics almost matching the mood swirling inside of him.

It was Thursday night, nearly Friday morning. His body was telling him to sleep, but his mind was telling him to stay awake, to keep thinking about everything that had happened, everything that was still unsaid. But sleep would have to come soon. He couldn’t stay awake forever, especially when he knew he'd have to face you soon anyway.

Suguru took one last drag, the ember of the cigarette glowing faintly as he let the smoke trail into the night. He exhaled slowly, staring at the city below, lost in his thoughts.

The cigarette burned down to the filter, and Suguru flicked it into the darkness below, stepping back inside and shutting the door behind him. He glanced at the clock—almost 2 AM. He needed sleep, but his mind was still too full. Still too tangled in everything that was unresolved.

As he crawled into bed, his phone buzzed again, and for a brief moment, he thought it might be you. But it wasn’t. It was just the group chat, messages from Nanami and Gojo about the bar plans. He stared at the screen, thumb hovering over the message, but he didn’t respond. He couldn’t. He was too tired to think about anything else, too tangled in the quiet ache of wanting something he wasn’t sure he could have anymore.

[slaaverin]

I watched AYS for the first time since the show ended today as I was off work sick, and it hit me. They are together.

As in truly and utterly together.

Objectively speaking if anyone was to watch the show, at least the Japan episodes out of context, without knowledge, without prejudice, without malice, they would see a couple. I do know how this isn’t widely seen in the fandom, I’m assuming cult hate and delusion, and ignorance/homophobia, but it’s so so obvious, and I think Jimin and JK knew certain people would see them. I think they wanted that.

In the interest of finding said objectivity I got a friend to watch with me on Disney, and she asked if they were together. Case in point.

They went to a romantic and safe place, one which holds precious memories, where they saw their first snow, walking around like in a hallmark movie, eating good food together, and just being together. I’m not even talking about the train ride, or the hot tub, it’s just how they are. So entwined, they literally move together. They are so in sync, so domestic. This doesn’t come from thin air, or not seeing each other, this level of intimacy is not born of friendship however deep, it’s more.

Take the meal they have in their pjs. Who does that on a bros trip firstly? And then watching them there, it’s so cosy and cute. Jimin only has to pout about wanting more of one of the dishes, and it suddenly appears. Friends don’t do that, or not any that I know, it would be an individual decision, you’d be paying for yourself kinda vibe, not pouting and getting your own way. Same as in the grocery store in CT, Jimin points and rubs his tummy, and gets his way. It’s so cute and endearing.

The constant need to touch, I know about skinship, but this is so different, it’s innocent in someways like they are holding back, but the eyes don’t lie, and there were many moments you can see it truly in all it’s glory.

It’s just so romantic, none of the last three episodes had a bro vibe, neither did CT honestly, and the jeju episodes serve to highlight just how coupley they are.

All this to say I love their love.

Aahh anon what you say is music to my ears I agree with you 100% 👏🏻

I think most people from outside would see them as a couple. That's why it is so wild most people in the fandom are still in denial about this.

The level of intimacy, domesticity, the touches, the looks, the words, the tones, the way their personality are complimentary, the way everything matches between them, how happy they are together, how flirty they get, the little soft moments as well as the loud shocking ones; everything about them screams couple and long-term, stable love relationship.

Why people still do not see it is beyond me. I think it comes down to that they do not want to see it. Simple.

Because everything has been there for years if PEOPLE SIMPLY PAID ATTENTION and I had so much fear about AYS, because it would be blatantly obvious and it was. But I underestimated to which length and mental gymnastics people would do to stay in denial. Some people still managed to try to belittle their bond. How far are they willing to distort reality? How far are they willing to go for reality to fit their own fantasy or fit this fucking bro agenda bullshit? (I'm sick of it)

They are in love.

A part of me wishes everyone would see it. That everyone would get it and support it. But I know this is very selfish, an egoic way to prove everyone we were right all along. But there is nothing to prove. And it would not serve them. If everyone knew it would put them in danger. Because a lot of people aren't loving, and their own country would give them hell.

So maybe this is all a blessing, that just some of us see it and support in our own corner, maybe it's best it does not get too noisy.

I think jikook suspected it. I think a part of them counted on it. They observed the fandom and know how it operates.

Which all keeps them safe.

Those with open hearts and a clear vision saw how incredibly romantic AYS was.

Jikook even repeated it several times.

It was all so gentle and soft, funny and cute, with an ease and a comfort only truly loving partners can convey.

It was joy and happiness, seeing them together.

It was love in it's purest form.

They really bring out the best of each other.

Anyone not seeing this is a fool but to each their own I guess

I'm in love with their love too. It's only natural to be attracted to beauty, and with these two pure souls having a love such as theirs? It's simply magnificent.

AYS went beyond my expectations. There were many things that did not suprise me. But what truly surprised me is seeing..how to put it...the passage of time? The feeling that yes they have been together FOR A LONG TIME and it showed.

Because there was no rush. There was not the visceral need of young love. It was slow, careful, assured, known, tender. It was simple and natural. As easy as breathing.

They are completely intertwined with each other like it's supposed to be this way. And it is.

Isn't it all perfect? It's perfect. It's beautiful. It's pure love. They have butterflies. I have butterlies too.

They don't have anything to prove anymore. And I think there's no need for us to prove it either for any other part of the fandom that don't want to open their eyes to something that is STARING AT THEM IN THE FACE. Let them in their own lies. We know what is true and what is just and it's ok.

Jikook are happy so it's all fine with me.

They know some of us fully support their relationship and I guess it's enough for them.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts anon 💜

[luffythinker]

let's talk about the epilogue

i haven't been active here for a couple of weeks, but I feel like I need this space to vent a little. I'm very passionate about bakudeku, I love their friendship, their dynamic the way their relationship grew with the story and of course, I'm a shipper so I also love the innuendos and allusions to their potential romantic relationship. I NEVER expected them to become canon, this is shounen manga, I'm not losing chess to a dog here, but to me, the final chapter (430) was great because it left it open to positive interpretations for whatever we wanted to envision about their futures (either for bkdk or izch).

I've also been an Izuku fan since the very beginning, I love him so much, he is so often misunderstood by both the fandom and people in the anime community, I have always defended him with everything I got. So imagine my sadness and frustration when I see these leaks and fan translations and I can't even recognize Izuku anymore, because the Izuku I knew would never reject Katsuki's offer to be hero partners and/or be in agency together, yes i've seen the more positive interpretations of it all, but honestly, I think we only get there with a lot of copium and hope that we cling to on what horikoshi might have wanted to mean and what is actually displayed in there.

The topic I'm most upset about is not even the ship or izch being canon, it's that you can't deny that bkdk either as friends or something else have always meant a lot to each other, so it's honestly horrible to see izuku treating katsuki like there's barely anything there, can they even be called friends? and this just makes no fucking sense lmao cause they are intertwined, their stories have been growing together, Katsuki put his career n hold for 8 years to have izuku be a pro hero again by his side, just for it to all mean nothing? I'm sorry but i just can't see how the izuku that was written for the past 10 years could ever behave like this, i just cant claim this epilogue as a proper ending for them

There was just so much i wish we could have seen Izuku handling or at least something that would explain this drastic change on his behavior, he has always been a character with a lot of thoughts, but suddenly we have no idea what he's actually thinking anymore, and to me, that is the most frustrating. I also hate, that out of everyone, Bakugo did not get his happy ending... he deserved to smile, win to save and save to win, just once I wanted to see him being truly happy, but I guess at least in canon, we will never see it.

[lightgirlification]

I know I'm 10 days late but IT'S STILL NOVEMBER SO IT COUNTS!!!! (It's a bit rushed so the anatomy is off BUT I WANTED TO MAKE SOMETHING SO SHHHHH)

I wanna start by saying Happy (Belated) Anniversary In Stars And Time!! You are genuinely a gem that has given me so much this year.

For context, 2023 in short was, no exaggeration, the worst year of my life. I had lost my job at the beginning of the year, I was given medicine that made me decline mentally and physically, and I was feeling more and more like there was no place for me anywhere. I still had good friends, a loving family, and great support, but I only wanted to be in bed every day, I wanted nothing more than to disappear.

Come the beginning of this year and things slowly began getting a bit better. I got a form of an income in, but I still was struggling to push forward. Then im April, I saw In Stars and Time recommended to me on Steam. Keep in mind I was playing games less and less these days, but something drew me to this game. I loved the art style, the plot sounded interesting, and the characters looked neat and I felt they would suck me into the game even more.

So I bought it, and it was the best decision I could have ever made. Not only did I end up loving the story, but every character spoke to me in some way, the strongest being Mirabelle, Isabeau, and ESPECIALLY Siffrin. When I saw Siffrin and what he went through, I realized that I was looking in a mirror, I saw his spiral and understood exactly how he felt, because I felt the same. I know people say "Oh you need therapy if you relate to Siffrin" which I understand but I have never felt so SEEN by a video game.

When all was said and done, when Siffrin got the ending he finally wished for, and the final confrontation with Loop where Siffrin says how thankful he was, I was in tears. It showed me that there was hope for me in a time where I believed all that was left for me were horrible outcomes.

I have made so many good friends because of this game and made me cherish the current friendships I had. I finally learned that I'm Pangender and have a major project in ISAT After Story. This game gave me my creativity back, gave me hope when I needed it. And while I still had plenty of downs this year, I can safely say I'm getting better and finally progressing. I was diagnosed with ADHD, going to have medicine, and am in amazing therapy, all of which I thought weren't possible. My relationship with my family is getting back to how it used to be, it's slow but I'm taking steps to make it happen when back then I left it up to chance and gave into my hate and self doubt.

In Stars and Time is more then just a game to me, it's something that will always be a part of my life and I'll never forget it.

Thank you InsertDisc for making this wonderful game. You gave me my life back, and I will forever be thankful for that. 💙

[buddieisgoingcanon25]

It's no news that Ryan is one of Tim's favorites and he has made it clear many times, then Ryan's relationship with the cast, we know that Kenny and he are best friends, something that can be seen perfectly because Ryan is his #1 when he makes his funny and crazy videos, also Aisha and he are best friends, Aisha once said when she was doing her lives on Instagram that the first thing he did when he arrived on set was to give her a hug, and we know that his relationship with Oliver is very good, I don't know if they are best friends but it is a very strong friendship.

Then there are those people who think they are perfect and surely have never made a single mistake in their life, that for them imperfect people are expendable a.k.a Ryan/Eddie haters. surely many are pro Tommy, Ryan's past story was recovered thanks to them and they even fed it. Ryan made a mistake in the past, he apologized and as we can see his relationship with his colleagues is a very strong friendship, obviously we don't know the whole context and if they forgave him it's because they talked about it and Ryan was able to explain it, who can blame him for wanting to defend the person who at that time was his girlfriend or wife? Besides, many people talk about Ryan with great affection and emphasize that he has a huge heart.

Now about Buck Seal, I want to see Eddie in army mode too.

❤️👀👏

[stranger-feathers]

The Byler miscommunication in Season 4, and why I find it so interesting

This is a continuation/inspired by what I said in this post, you can think of it as a preview of this.

Miscommunication plots are usually hated in fiction, and it's easy to understand why. They're often trite and uninteresting, only existing by chance and contrivances to create pointless conflict. We all have seen that scene where a character walks in or out, at the exact wrong moment, and ends up making up a completely outlandish scenario, or completely misinterprets someone's intention while we're left sighing and hoping for the end. It's annoying, everyone hates it, but we all live with it regardless. You may then ask : why do I like the miscommunication conflict used in ST4 so much if I normally hate them ?

At its core, it is a miscommunication conflict, there's no real denying it. Mike and Will are somehow both convinced the other doesn't care anymore, despite the audience knowing very well that this assumption doesn't make much sense. The interesting part though is why they end up thinking so. Buckle up, and let me tell you a story of why this conflict was actually genius on the part of the writers.

1) Backstory : Mike & Will's relationship before the conflict (S2 and before)

Mike and Will are presented as a special pair from the beginning of the show, I don't think this needs to be demonstrated here (there are countless analysis that have done so better than I ever could). During Season 2, we are shown a Mike who is constantly looking out for Will, and reaching out in ways that others do not. He tries to call the Byers' house to check up on Will when he misses school, and, most importantly, he's the only who actually goes there to find Will when calling does not work. Put a pin on that, Mike going to see Will when calling fails will be important later. This motif of Mike reaching out to Will is so fundamental that it is highlighted as being the very way they became friends. They were both alone and Mike reached out : "And I just walked up to you and… I asked. I asked if you wanted to be my friend."

(he's such a sweetie pie).

Mike is the leader of the group, and it really shows in this tendency to initiate things. It's easy to realise that early in the series (and presumably before as well), Mike makes the plans to hang out. The writers use the D&D games to showcase that fact : they happen at his house, and he is the DM. He prepares them for hours and clearly puts efforts into them, all so his friends can have fun with him. He initiates things and expect others to answer present : that's simply how he preferes to communicate. But what does that have to do with Will ?

Will as a character is reached out to in a lot of his interactions. The plot of Season 1 is heavily focused on reaching out to Will stuck in the Upside Down, be that with Joyce's lights or with El's powers (the talkies and the void both). Here, Joyce and El are allies in communication, and El particularly so where Mike is concerned. Put a pin on those two, they'll also come back later (less positively unfortunately). However, Will as a character rarely initiate interactions. Will seems to strugle with opening up if the people around him don't make an active effort to reach out, which is why we so often see Jonathan and Mike actively asking him if he's okay and initiating their scenes. That is why Mike is such a good fit for Will : he always knows how to coax him out of his shell and always reaches out, which Will treasures immensely.

The other side of the coin then is : why does Mike treasure Will ?

Will is one of the rare characters to not rebuff Mike when he lets himself be vulnerable. Most of his overtures of closeness with Nancy are rebuffed, his relationship with his mother is in an awkward middle ground between her attempting to reach him and failling, and him attempting to communicate and her rebuffing him, his friendship with Lucas tends toward confrontation in early seasons... Mike really lacks a safe space to express himself and his emotions fully. Or well, he would lack it, if it wasn't for Will, or so the show implies.

If we take the crazy together scene as an example of their usual friendship (which is up for debate, but I usually assume it to be the case), Mike feels comfortable enough with Will to calmly express his feelings towards El and her death, and they manage to meet each other in the middle, ending the scene with the mutual understanding that they'll go crazy together. Once again, this is a question initiated by Mike : Will is simply the one answering it. However, this exchange still puts Will in a pretty restricted and cherished category for Mike : someone who answers positively to Mike's overtures of closeness.

Interestingly enough, Mike asserts in that scene that El would understand too : after all, she's the one who understood him in Season 1, when Will was unreachable. Sadly, we see that understanding diminish with time, leaving Mike more and more isolated : two examples that come to mind would be the "blank makes you crazy" scene (where El fails to answer Mike correctly) and the complete shutdown of his attempt to empathise about being bullied during their Season 4 fight. (This is mostly a tangent, but it fits the overall theme of this analysis so I'll let it stay here)

Will answering positively to Mike's reaching out is also the one thing Mike chooses to highlight about their dynamic during Will's possesion, proving how deeply appreciated Will's answers are : "And you said yes. You said yes."

As Mike says : "It was the best thing I've ever done". Letting himself be vulnerable with Will, and Will reacting positively, was the best thing ever for 13 year-old Mike.

Do note that I'm French and the French version is specifically "[you saying yes] was the best thing that ever happened to me", which supports my point here even better. That probably colors my perception of this scene, but the underlying idea is still there in English in my opinion.

And Will rewards Mike being vulnerable again by responding extremely positively : for the first time in the scene he starts tapping in Morse code, an answer to Mike's desperate reaching out.

Now that we've layed out the ground work for how they work at their best, let's see what happens when this dynamic falls apart.

2) The big conflict : Season 3's fallout

It's summer of 1985, and Mike spends most of his time making out with El. He seemingly stopped reaching out to Will, or at the very least, doesn't do it half as much as he used to. Will, feeling left behind, decides to be the one to reach out this time : he plans a D&D game, the same way Mike used to. This is Will attempting to clumsily replace Mike in their usual dynamic : if Mike doesn't want to initiate things anymore, then Will will try to do it instead. He quite literaly replaces Mike's role as the DM (aka the initiator and planner in D&D), but the game still happens at Mike's : this is, after all, Will's way to reach out to Mike specifically. The others are never really accused of leaving Will behind, and rightly so since they seem to have kept up with him much better.

Unfortunately for Will, that plan does not go smoothly at all. Mike is not in the headspace to answer positively to Will's reaching out, and they end up fighting, presumably for the first time in a long time (or ever) if Mike's surprise is anything to go by. Mike digs his grave more and more before realising that he really fucked up, and decides to try to fix things by, you guessed it, reaching out to Will. He bikes to Will's house under the pouring rain, profusely apologises, and keeps looking for Will until he finally finds him at Castle Byers. Unfortunately for Mike, this is too little too late : we never get to see Will's answer, and the conflict is slipped under the rug rather than resolved (as Lucas' discussion with Will in the next episode highlights). What Will learns from this interaction is that reaching out to Mike when Mike fails to do so isn't a solution : it simply seems to make things even worse.

Fast forward to the end of the season, and Will uses D&D to get this point across : "I'll just use yours when I come back. I mean, if we still wanna play." Whatever happens next, Will leaves it to Mike to reach out.

On Mike's side, he reaches out to Will one last time : "What if you want to join another party ?" And Will answers the exact thing Mike wanted to hear : "Not possible." Both of them end up seemingly on the same page : back to their usual dynamic, smiling brightly at each other with an unsaid promise that things won't change. Unfortunately, things do change, and not for the better.

3) Post-conflict : THE miscommunication (Season 4)

It's March of 1986, and Mike is on a plane to California. We know from the first episode that Mike and El send each other letters, but we have no information on the communication between Will and Mike. Then comes their first meeting on screen and it is more than awkward.

Will is prepared for a big hug, yet Mike is keeping his distance for unknown reasons. It's obvious something happened on Mike's side between their last conversation and this, but what it exactly is is left up to our imagination for now.

The start of an answer is given in their fight at Rink-O-Mania : "[Mike] called maybe a couple of times [...] meanwhile [El] has like a book of letters from [him]". Whatever happened on Mike's side isn't a one time thing, but a continuous issue in communication between them. Mike seemingly doesn't want to reach out to Will anymore, leaving Will hurt and abandoned by one of his favourite person. (Jonathan's behaviour in California also does not help remedy that fact, since he has never been as distant from Will as he is this season)

However, a few episodes later, we are given a very strange piece of information by Dustin : "Joyce has this telemarketer job, she's always on the phone. Mike won't stop whining about it." Now why would Mike whine about the phone, if he barely even called Will ? It's not like Mike was calling El, we established both at the end of Season 3 and at the start of Season 4 that they communicate by letters (as Will confirms) and talkies. A plausible conclusion for those two pieces of information is then that Mike did reach out to Will, but just couldn't get through. (this is the conclusion I use in this analysis, even if it has not been confirmed to be the case)

But wait, remember that pin about what Mike does when phone calls don't work to reach Will ? He goes directly to his house. A shame that the Byers moved to the other side of the country then, wouldn't you say ? Mike is therefore left to stew in his hurt feelings, convinced that Will doesn't want to answer like he used to. And with that, Mike loses one of the rare persons that he can be fully honest to (and as we've established, El's understanding of Mike is also looking worse and worse as time passes).

The move is an obstacle to the very premise of their communication, and that's what makes it a great conflict. Will feels like Mike doesn't want to reach out anymore, and Mike feels like Will doesn't want to answer. This isn't a conflict that exists in spite of the characters, but because of them.

Speaking of external obstacles to communication, remember that pin we put on Joyce and El being allies in communication ? Well, it's certainly not the case anymore. Here, Joyce is the obstacle that prevents Will from answering Mike's calls. And El is the obstacle that prevents Mike from reaching out by letters. As he puts it himself, "[El] has a book of letters from [him] because she's [his] girlfriend". And Will, who obviously isn't Mike's girlfriend, doesn't need letters.

And with those informations, we can now reconstruct what happened on Mike's first day in California.

Mike is feeling out of touch with Will ("I feel like I lost you") and is therefore awkward as hell. This makes Will think Mike doesn't want to talk to him anymore ("you're not interested in anything I have to say"), which means Will doesn't answer the way Mike wants ("you were rolling your eyes, you were moping, you were barely talking"), which leads to their fight. That whole day at its core is Mike failling to initiate correctly, which makes Will freak out and answer incorrectly : this is them not being on the same wavelength anymore, and a clear indication that their usual dynamic has been deeply disturbed by the last few months (or year, because as Joyce says, we're all time travelers, but especially if you're gay pining for your best friend).

Another very interesting detail to me is the implication that, while Will clearly still cares about Mike, waiting for a big hug at the airport, we hear very little about Will's own attempts at reaching out. Mike points out the same thing when they fight : "Well maybe [Will] should've reached out more. Why am I the bad guy ?". And he is right ! Will should have reached out more. But given their previous conflict in Season 3, and their history of communication before that, Will didn't feel comfortable reaching out. He tried last summer, and it ended up blowing up in his face, so he's waiting on Mike to make the first move, even if that means not communicating at all. Will won't let himself ask more of Mike than Mike is willing to give him, or so he tries to convince himself (he does still get pissy about being the third wheel, which is understandable). It's a very juicy and dramatic series of events, but it still manages to feel very organic to me, and deeply in character. Will is understandable, despite being somewhat in the wrong. The best part is that Will himself does end up realising this ! When Mike comes to apologise, Will attempts an apology as well, because Mike's words made him realise his own faults in the situation.

In that same apology, they manage to fix their relationship. Now that the situation allows it, they go back to the exact dynamic that worked out so well for them before : Mike initiates and seeks Will out with an overture of friendship, and Will answers gratefully (even grabbing his painting, the very proof of his love and understanding of Mike).

Later down the line, Will covertly apologises for not reaching out more : "if [I] was mean to you, or if [I] seemed like [I] was pushing you away, it's probably because [I'm] scared of losing you". Since this comes from his speech about the painting, Will's name isn't on those words, but it's still progress for Will to admit and word it aloud, even if it's only to himself.

Besides, feelings don't always need to be said (as they put it themselves "I didn't say it." "You didn't have to"). The painting itself is proof enough for Mike that Will thought about him despite the distance. Mike really needed to know that, more than he needs an apology. Will finds the right answer to reasure Mike in the van scene, and they truly fix everything there.

This plot is very dear to my heart because both of them have fucked up and hurt each other without meaning to. They acted out of carefully built familiarity with the others' behaviour, even when the situation itself didn't allow their usual communication to work. That's why it blows up in their face, leading to the Rink-O-Mania fight. But this deep familiarity is also why they're so quick to build their relationship back up, seemingly stronger than ever. This is miscommunication done right folks, take notes.

[cupidbedsy]

LUKE AND SABRINA ☾

HOW THEY GET TOGETHER ☾

➪ they meet at the devils first home game where some people coordinated to suprise sabrina with meeting jack

➪ luke is immediately awe struck by her, thinks he's never seen someone as beautiful as her

➪ both luke and jack knew about her both because of hockey but also because an edit of her went viral

➪ sabrina thinks he's just so cute and adorable in a little brother way at first

➪ sabrina and jack become best friends which means that the two of them see each other a lot

➪ jack will not let either of his brothers date her because he's super protective over her not because he thinks his brothers would do something to hurt her but if they did, he's scared she'll stop being friends with him

➪ luke doesn't really talk to her all that much at first, he's super shy around her and just murmurs his responses with his signature awkward smile

➪ sabrina realizes her feelings on a late night when she's in her apartment (or hotel depending on the events of some games)

➪ she is panicking because that is her best friend's little brother and he's four years younger than him

➪ she does distance herself a little from them but tries not to too much because she knows jack will come after her

➪ luke realizes his feelings before her, it's pretty early on in their friendship

➪ they're out at a bar watching one of the devils games, it's before the pwhl season starts and before luke is over his injury

➪ they just talk about hockey the whole time and luke buys her a couple drinks all while he's practically drooling over her

➪ they confess their feeelings on a day that some of the sirens and devils are hanging out (only bc sabrina and her connection to the devils now) at one of her teammate's houses

➪ she's talking to paetyn when she sees luke talking to a girl (one that isn't her teammate, she actually has no clue who the girl is)

➪ she ends up just walking upstairs to one of the guest rooms because she's jealous but also because she's just been feeling off all day

➪ luke comes and finds her and he's still shy as ever but he doesn't like seeing her upset so he starts to go all interrogator on her

➪ they end up sitting next to each other on the bed where she blurts out her feelings and starts rambling how sorry she is and gets cutt of by luke's kiss

➪ he's all giddy and excited but tries to play it cool

➪ they then just cuddle on the bed trying to decide what to tell jack and they just decide to keep it on the down low

ABOUT THEIR RELATIONSHIP ☾

➪ luke's nicknames for her are: sab, ree, baby, and gorgeous (sometimes other ones depending on the situation)

➪ sabrina's nicknames for him are: lukey, pretty boy, baby, sweetheart, and honey

➪ she's always teasing him because she loves seeing him all flustered and blushy, it's her favorite thing about him)

➪ his favorite thing about her is her hands/fingers. he loves to play with them when he gets anxious, loves when she plays with his hair and loves when she gives him back scratches (amongst other things)

➪ his second favorite thing about her is her calming presence, it's sort of like the one quinn gives off as an older sibling but also different in a way that only he can explain

➪ even before they start dating, he gives her foot massages (i don't know, why it just happens okay?)

➪ she just kind of plops her feet in his lap and yeah

➪ she is so protective of possessive of luke (even before they start dating)

➪ before hand, it's mostly because she can pick up when people are uncomfortable even by the slightest movement

➪ and after of course she's possessive because that is her man

➪ luke is also protective as well, but it's much more subtle. he just sort of tenses up whenever she starts talking to a guy he doesn't know

➪ he also just frowns and becomes really reserved

➪ she loves when he's outgoing almost as much as she loves when he gets shy

➪ it's nice to see him comfortable around people and just talking animatedly about things

➪ luke gets all upset all the time when she's not giving him her attention

➪ she couldbe cooking or making her bed and he's just sitting a little ways from her full on poutting and giving her the biggest eye she can muster until she turns and looks at him

➪ she goes to a lot of jersey games and she's always alternating between jack and luke's jerseys

➪ he's texting her before games asking her to wear his even if he knows it's her turn to wear jack's

➪ luke absolutely loves whenever he cna get sab to sit in his lap, his hands are either on her ass or on her stomach depending on which way she's sitting

[tangents-within-tangents]

Hi, demiro ace here to learn more about apl! If I may?

I'm kinda thinking it might be best for everyone if we don't consider apl apart of the aspec community (which is historically/currently defined as both the aro and ace spectrums only). If the umbrella gets too big it's not really helpful anymore. I definitely get how they are related with similar concepts of not experiencing a certain type of attraction, but they are also complete opposites, no? And while there are those who identify as both aro/ace and apl, these spectrums don't actually overlap like the aro and ace ones do (which is why it is helpful to talk about them together under the aspec). Like that overlap is more akin to someone who also identifies as bi or trans and apl, it's an additional identity that doesn't really have anything to do with the other, a venn diagram not a connected spectrum.

Trans identities are about gender, lesbian/gay/bi/pan/etc are about who you experience sexual/romantic attraction to, and aro/ace are about how you (do or don't) experience that attraction. But aplatonic is about friendship, about how you relate to people outside of relationships. It's not a romantic or sexual spectrum so it has as much to do with aro/ace as it does with Lgbt-etc and vice versa, right? I just feel like it would be better to view aplatonic as a separate valid thing.

Like if it sucks and feels unwelcoming to you, maybe sometimes that just means it's not the right place for you, not that the place needs to change. And I'm not saying apl-phobia is okay and we shouldn't strive to be better (esp with acknowledging the overlap), but if you are mad at the 'values platonic relationships more than romantic and/or sexual ones' community for doing just that, that's kinda aro/ace-phobic.

yea sure to YOU sexual/romantic relationships don't mean anything/are devalued/etc, but not to all of us!!

Yeah we know, it's like that with all allos in the Lgbtq+ community! What do you want asexual/aromantic people to do about that? I could say the exact same thing, "sure to YOU platonic relationships don't mean anything/are devalued, but not to all of us." We shouldn't have to make caveats in all our posts for people who are allo-romantic/sexual when that's not what we're here to talk about no more than you should have to for people who are allo-platonic. It's just counterproductive.

That's kinda like a lesbian complaining about how all gays ever talk about is how hot guys are. Where those communities do relate is in experiencing same-sex attraction (the same way ours relate in experiencing a lack of a certain attraction) and even though they may technically overlap with people who are bi/pan (like we may with people who are on both spectrums) they are still quite different and therefore considered separate groups while still being included together under the wider umbrella of queer/Lgbtqia+

I think it's clear we would benefit from a similar distinction, and I'm curious to hear what others think about this. Like maybe 'anattractional' spectrum instead can be about anything with an a- prefix referring to a lack of an attraction (the same way Lgbp can be lumped together under homosexual or SSA), while 'aspec' can still refer to just the aro/ace spectrum.

(Also, I get the frustrations with relationship hierarchies, but I just want to clarify: when alloplatonic aro/ace's say we value platonic relationships more, we mean for us. We're saying that sexual/romantic relationships are less valuable to us (esp bc that is not reflected in an amatonormative society) not that they can't/shouldn't be valuable to anyone who is allo. When we speak out against amatonormativity, it's that we want platonic relationships to be seen on the same level of value as romantic relationships in society as a whole (the same way that feminism is about equality for women, not bringing them above men). Amatonormativity and platonormativity are mutually exclusive, getting rid of one doesn't mean replacing it with the other (especially since both currently exist). The normativity is the problem, we aren't speaking against the people who happen to conform with it but those who want to enforce it. It's about the mindsets and how they are exclusionary for those who don't conform.)

being apl in aspec communties sucks sm. everything is all about how important platonic relationships are and "dismantling relationship heirarchies", while just building new ones. it feels super unwelcoming.

like yea sure to YOU sexual/romantic relationships don't mean anything/are devalued/etc, but not to all of us!! some of us LIKE those things, and MORE than platonic relationships. its like we rnt even aspec at all 2 these people, like sorry some of us go against the grain of society while still having certain ""non queer"" parts to our identity. i feel like we are seen as not aspec/lgbt enough to participate in those communities. so much about the aspec communtity is about how untalked about we are and how we are never included or thought about in discussions, but aro and ace communtities do the same to us!!!

.

[girl-named-matty]

𝘊𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘯 𝘎𝘢𝘶𝘯𝘵

Name: Callan Gaunt Pronouns: He/Him Age: 18 - HCU Gender: Male Birthday: December 31st, 1874 Zodiac Sign: Capricorn Birthplace: Undisclosed area, England. House: Slytherin Patronus: Goliath bird eating spider (im so sorry) Animagus: N/A Wand: Blackthorn wood, Dragon Heartstring core, 13", springy Blood Status: Pureblood Languages: English Ethnicity: Irish & English

𝘈𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦

Race: Caucasian Eyes: Dark brown, almost black Hair: Short black hair Skin: Pretty pale Height: 6'3" Distinguishing Features: He has a scar across his left cheek.

𝘗𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺

Positive Traits: A very loyal friend, fun & outgoing, will never back down from a fight. Negative Traits: Sometimes takes sarcasm too far, is still figuring out the whole affection thing, aggressive if prompted. Strengths: Will stand up for someone if needed, no matter who. Weaknesses: Will NEVER back down from a fight, that's the issue lol.

𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘰 / 𝘚𝘬𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘴

Boggart: His father Mirror of Erised: Being far away from his family & no longer having the Gaunt name Hobbies: Reading, Dueling, Pottery Amortentia: Cedar & fresh linen, Future Occupation: Healer Favorite Spell: Incendio Least Favorite Spell: Crucio

Best subject: Defense Against the Dark Arts Favorite subject: Defense Against the Dark Arts, Favorite Professor: Professor Sharp Worst subject: Divination Least favorite subject: Divination Least favorite professor: Professor Binns (he's boring) Quidditch Position: Beater

𝘍𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺

Father's Name: Caelan Gaunt Age: 46 Status: Alive Blood Status: Pureblood House: Slytherin Personality: He doesn't have one, he's just mean.

Mother's Name: Alessia Gaunt Age: 45 Status: Alive Blood Status: Pureblood House: Slytherin Personality: She was a caring mother when Callan was younger but once he got old enough she kinda stopped caring.

Siblings: Hugo, Constance, & Elowen Gaunt

𝘙𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘴

Love Interest: Valentine Black (@savingsallow) House: Slytherin and Slytherin

♡︎ Theodore Lupin - Theodore is Callan's best friend. They met in first year after Callan saw Theodore getting bullied by some 3rd year kids. He stood up for him and they've been friends ever since. Callan is definitely the more outgoing of the two, but he's always looking out for Theo since he knows Theo isn't all too confident in himself. And regardless if his family doesn't approve of their friendship, Theo is still one of the most special people to Cal.

♡︎ Alejandro Salvatori - Ale and Cal are roommates (wow). They're really good friends, lowkey in love with each other, both like the same girl but also kind of each other??? It's complicated y'all, don't ask. Ale is just his pookie. But they are roommates, on the quidditch team together, and do a lot together. Him, Cal, and Val are lowkey in a weird love triangle, LOL.

♡︎ Ominis Gaunt - Ominis is Callan's cousin and they were born around the same time so they grew up together. Not only that but they share a lot of the same morals, so they can often be seen hanging out together in order to get away from the rest of their family. So they are pretty close, to put it simply.

♡︎ Sebastian Sallow - They get in trouble together, that's pretty much it most of the time.

♡︎ The HCU pals - He loves all of them with his whole heart 💕

𝘘𝘶𝘪𝘤𝘬 𝘉𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺

Callan was born on December 31st, 1984 to Caelan and Alessia Gaunt. He is the 2nd oldest of four children. During his childhood, Alessia was caring for the first few years of his life, but once he began to get older, she started caring less and less. As far as she was concerned, her relationship with her children was to just bring them into this world, teach them her values and views, and keep them trapped in them. She truly only ever cared about herself and her power in her relationship with her husband. Callan also had a strained relationship with his father. When his cousin, Ominis, was tortured by his own family at a young age, Callan heard about this and strongly disagreed, pained to see his favorite cousin get hurt.

Caelan quickly got upset at the boy and told him it was a fitting punishment for Ominis' disobedience. Once Callan disagreed, Caelan slashed his son on the face with a razor, giving him a scar he'd carry on his face forever. And that was the beginning of Cal's crumbling relationship with his father and family in general.

Cal spends most of his time at Hogwarts, planning to stay away from his family and to get far away from them one day. This also includes getting his girlfriend, Val, away from her family as well. All he wants to do is live in peace and happiness away from those who seek to hurt him and his loved ones.

[cazort]

How Sex-Negative Culture Enforces a Strict Binary Between Casual Sex and Romantic Relationships

When I was in college I heard a lot of people complain about how there is a lot of pressure for sexual relationships to be categorized either as serious romantic relationships, or totally casual sex, with little to no in-between.

I also started feeling a lot of pressure to categorize relationships in this way. In this video I talk about the ways I experienced this pressure, and how I saw other people around me struggling with and responding to it as well.

I also talk about how I think this pressure is rooted in sex negativity and purity culture, specifically, that it stems from guilt and shame associated with sex outside of serious romantic relationships. A lot of people who supposedly have rejected this culture, still enforce these same norms, and they often do it by how they approach their own sexual relationships and how they talk about them with others. Things like saying "Don't have sex with friends / sex messes up friendships" or pressuring people to label relationships as romantic in the early stages even if the other person isn't ready, isn't fully comfortable with the label, or isn't sure what they want.

I unfortunately have also seen a lot of backsliding in the past 10 or so years, like our society seemed to be getting better for a while but it seems to have gotten worse again and I see a lot of people saying all the same things I experienced in college and right out of college all over again.

I hope that this video can give people the tools to understand and resist this pressure, the ability to articulate what is wrong with it and assert yourself when faced with these pressures. When we start talking about this stuff, we become empowered to break it down.