#it was never a perfect rep from the very start (hello remember the center for the blind wasn't even accessible lol)
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oswlld · 10 months ago
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#but its so so so important to note that it does show a real part of disability and it will resonate with disabled people still!#just because i dont like the representation doesnt mean its extremely nuanced to call it bad representation through and through#thank you op for sharing this
thank you soooo much @biolums for saying that. it's such a nuanced, difficult dialogue to navigate because the landscape of Disability is so complex.
i don't want to go into too much detail about my life and how i connected to LT, but just know i am not entirely comfortable with what i am seeing on my dash. a few years ago circumstances lead to me losing my hearing for majority of a year and then became hard hearing for a period of time before i regained my hearing back. its not fully where it used to be but that loss, that hope, and what you take with you on the other side stays with you long after the recovery. i know because i see it every time my mom is in remission.
and then a few months ago, i got a concussion which lead to me being momentarily unable to walk without an caregiver/walker/cane. i worked hard on my PT and now am able to manage on my own two feet again as of three weeks ago.
all i am saying is sure hating on part 4 is your opinion and might not be for you but there are people in your life and maybe on your dash that are reading what you think about people who were disabled at a time of their life, are on their way to recovery now, or got the treatment they've been waiting for. the hardships, the journey, even all the good that happened during allllll that still matters after recovery.
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backalley-requests · 5 years ago
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Heyyy, can I get ships with MCU and ST? (if it's possible). I'm a straight girl. I'm 5'3, with short - like just above the shoulders - auburn hair and green eyes. My style is pretty vintage I like to create my outfits looking at old photos from the 70s/80s. I am shy at first but after a while, I get very flirty and outgoing. I have a lot of hobby and I don't like to do nothing. I like to read, listen to some good classic rock songs and do many outdoor activities. Thank you sooo much 💛💛
I’m sorry it took so long! I’ve been awfully busy with school! I hope you enjoy it!
I ship you with...
MARVEL
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Bucky Barnes
You’re very classic by nature and that’s something that initially draws Bucky to you. Mostly because it’s messing with his head as he gets flashbacks to glimpses through the decades he lost to Hydra. He doesn’t remember much of it, but being around you gave him the feeling he might be able to get back what he lost.
You were scared of him at first, and a little shy. You saw enough news coverage of him to know he was bad news. Bucky saw the idea of getting close to you as attoning for what he did. If he could change you perception on him then maybe he wasn’t that bad after all and maybe the man he was forced to be wasn’t really him. He kept “randomly” bumping into you and trying to strike up conversations even through you were nervous at first, eventually you grew used to it and realized maybe he was a victim of it all.
The two of you spend a lot of time outdoors doing various stuff. You enjoy the outdoors and Bucky likes being away from the city and all the noise. It’s an oasis when you guys manage to be out and away from civilization. Stuff like canoeing or rock climbing just puts both of you in a good state of mind.
You’re always on the move trying to do stuff and start new activities and sometimes Bucky struggles to keep up. But he enjoys that quick energy you give off of. His body naturally wants to be lazy but he is much happier when he does get to do stuff so being with you is exciting.
He’s really over protective of you, perhaps a little possessive at times too. He’s had people he loves taken away from him and it’s hard to imagine a world where you’re not in it. You think it’s cute sometimes and annoying other times but you get where he’s coming from and sometimes just let him do what makes him feel safer. Plus it’s kind of hot sometimes.
You have to deal with the occasional person realizing who he is and freaking out in fear. He isn’t that recognizable on the streets but some people still have memories from the time he was.
There was a knock at the door at 10 o’clock at night. This was pretty rare considering that neither of you had any close friends who randomly came over. Steve sometimes but Steve tended to walk right in when he arrived, so something about this was wrong.
Bucky’s arms were wrapped around you as the two of you watched a movie. This was meant to be a nice cuddling session although it was suddenly pulled apart by the knocking. Bucky tensed up immediately, “I’ll get it.” He said, knowing you tended to be shy around strangers.
He headed over to the door and opened it, “Hello?” On the other end appeared to be some nerdy sales rep trying to the two of you to buy a subscription. Who tries to tell stuff at 10 o’cock at night? “We don’t want any—“ he started but was soon cut off by the sound of glass breaking in the other room.
When Bucky turned back the sales rep punched him in the face. He hardly reacted to it as he used hs arm to shove him back hard enough to crack the hallway wall. He soon rushed into the living room to find you being held against your will, a gun to your head.
Bucky started walking over but was stalled when the man spoke up, “uh uh. Take another step closer and I’ll kill her.” Bucky knew better than to just suddenly risk your life. You were one of the few good things he had left in it.
“What do you want.”
You somehow managed to stay silent, afraid of dying but also afraid of Bucky getting hurt. There was few options here and while you trusted him you weren’t sure if anyone could easily get out of this. But you did have something that could help, if only the man would make a mistake.
“I can’t you too—“ the man was cut off as you realized your perfect shot was upon you, you elbowed him hard and he doubled over. You weren’t exactly helpless but he hadn’t given any previous openings. He released you as a reflex and you dove to the side to evade him.
Bucky instantly moved in and knocked him out wirh one quick punch as the man flew across the room and you ran to his arms. “I’m so sorey, I wasn’t paying attention and—“ you began to apologize quickly but he held you tight and shushed you softly.
“It’s my fault too alright, we got too comfortable.” But there was a bigger unspoken problem. That someone wanted him and knew exactly where he lived. “We should head somewhere else for now, those men won’t stay down forever.”
You nodded your head and moved to get ready. “You already know I’m willing to follow you wherever you go. Just lead the way.”
STRANGER THINGS
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Jim Hopper
You’re wardrobe fits right in with the era, given that it’s the 70s to early 80s. But you’re appreciation for the early seventies starts to feel really nostalgic for him, especially cause it keeps him centered in a world that just keeps changing drastically at every turn.
At first you thought all the traps around his house were a little excessive but you soon realized he was just extremely prepared, and that his paranoia was justified. You actually learned to get really into helping him eith that, enjoying how they made you think and enjoying being out in the woods.
When he first met you it was for an interrogation. He thought you may have had something to do with a recent disappearance of a missing boy, although that was before he learned the darker truth. You were so shy that he thought you were hiding something. So he changed tactics to get closer in hopes you’d lower your guard.
Needless to say you were pissed when you realized he only got close to you for his case. He owned up to it all when he realized that you had nothing to do with it, and especially when he learned about the monsters. You thought it was less reassuring, and you stormed off. That was how you first encountered the supernatural.
You became El’s advocate. You supported her wanting some freedom and felt bad that she was cooped up for so long, especially since you knew that you could never handle sitting still for as long as she had to.
You both have similar taste in music and love driving down the road jamming out to classic rock, or at the time just rock. You’d go on long drives to take a weekend getaway off in another cabin by a lake. Sometimes to help ease the tension of the real danger back in town.
“Dance with me!” You said suddenly. You had been holed up in the house for several days and there was only so many puzzles, games, and television that could occupy you. So you turned up the radio and started poorly your dancing your way to Hopper.
He felt bad that he couldn’t do more for your right now. But he was under heavy surveillance and going outside at the moment was a recipe for disaster. He just wished you didn’t have to get stuck with him. “Oh I don’t know.” He rested his head to the side. “Dancing isn’t really my thing,” he admitted.
“Please! It’s the least you can do.” Once you flashed your puppy dog eyes at him, Hopper knew it was over. You grabbed his hands and pulled him to his feet as you started to dance to the rhythm, forcing him along with you.
As he started to get into it you let go and began to move in bouncing circles to the rock song, letting your hair have it’s fun as you went wild enjoying the moment. Hopper never quite got on your level as his dancing slowly came to a stop. He was mesmerized by the way your body moved to the song. How free you managed to be even here.
Soon you stopped as you realized he wasn’t playing along. “Whats wrong?” You were panting and a little out of breath due to your intensity. You brushed your hair to the side and just behind your ear to see him better.
“You just— well you’re breath taking.” Hopper smiles at you, finally releasing a breath he just realized he was holding. “Besides, you’re a lot quicker than me.” He then chuckled.
Your face flushed red in response and you felt he place heat up. “Well you have that affect on me too.” You confessed.
Just then, a snapping sound was heard outside in the woods. A trap was just set off and something was caught. Animal? Human? Who knows, but it meant that you guys had to find out and more importantly that you got to go outside!
“We caught something!”
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mrkwonandmrchoibabygirl · 6 years ago
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50 DARKER SHADES OF KWON JI YONG PT.7
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Description:Daunted by the singular tastes and dark secrets of the beautiful, tormented young entrepreneur Kwon Ji Yong, Y/N Y/L/N has broken off their relationship to start a new career with a Seoul publishing house.But desire for Jiyong still dominates her every waking thought, and when he proposes a new arrangement,Y/N cannot resist. They rekindle their searing sensual affair, and Y/N learns more about the harrowing past of her damaged, driven and demanding Fifty Shades.While Jiyong wrestles with his inner demons, Jiyong must confront the anger and envy of the women who came before her, and make the most important decision of her life. (let me know what you think in the ask box!)
Genre:Smut/Angst/Fluff
Rated:NC-17
Pairing: G-Dragon x Reader
Wordcount:8,882
(remember this is and edit of the original book called fifty shades darker thanks!)
Masterlist
Holy shit, did I really just do that? It must be the alcohol. I’ve had champagne plus four glasses of four different wines. I glance up at Jiyong, who’s busy applauding. Crap, he’s going to be so angry, and we’ve been getting along so well. My subconscious has finally decided to make an appearance, and she’s wearing her Edvard Munch The Scream face. Jiyong leans over to me, a large, fake smile plastered across his face. He kisses my cheek and then moves closer to whisper in my ear in a very cold, controlled voice. “I don’t know whether to worship at your feet or spank the living shit out of you.” Oh, I know what I want right now. I gaze up at him, blinking through my mask. I just wish I could read what’s in his eyes. “I’ll take option two, please,” I whisper frantically as the applause dies down. His lips part as he inhales sharply. Oh, that chiseled mouth—I want it on me, now. I ache for him. He gives me a radiant sincere smile that leaves me breathless. “Suffering, are you? We’ll have to see what we can do about that,” he murmurs as he runs his fingers along my jaw. His touch resonates deep, deep inside where that ache has spawned and grown. I want to jump him right here, right now, but we sit back to watch the auction of the next lot. I can barely sit still. Jiyong drapes an arm around my shoulders, his thumb rhythmically stroking my back, sending delicious tingles down my spine. His free hand clasps mine, bringing it to his lips, then letting it rest on his lap. Slowly and surreptitiously, so I don’t realize his game until it’s too late, he eases my hand up his leg and against his erection. I gasp, and my eyes dart in panic around the table, but all eyes are fixed on the stage. Thank heavens for my mask. Taking full advantage, I slowly caress him, letting my fingers explore. Jiyong keeps his hand over mine, hiding my bold fingers, while his thumb skates softly over the nape of my neck. His mouth opens as he gasps softly, and it’s the only reaction I can see to my inexperienced touch. But it means so much. He wants me. Everything south of my navel contracts. This is becoming unbearable. A week by Lake Adriana in Montana is the final lot for auction. Of course Mr. and Dr.Kwon have a house in Montana, and the bidding escalates rapidly, but I am barely aware of it. I feel him growing beneath my fingers, and it makes me feel so powerful. “Sold, for one hundred ten thousand dollars!” the MC declares victoriously. The whole room bursts into applause, and reluctantly I follow as does Jiyong, ruining our fun. He turns to me and his lips twitch. “Ready?” he mouths over the rapturous cheering.
“Yes,” I mouth back. “Y/N!” Mia calls. “It’s time!” What? No. Not again! “Time for what?” “The First Dance Auction. Come on!” She stands and holds out her hand. I glance at Jiyong , who is, I think, scowling at Mia, and I don’t know whether to laugh or cry, but it’s laughter that wins. I succumb to a cathartic bubble of schoolgirl giggles, as we are thwarted once more by the tall, pink powerhouse that is Mia Kwon. Jiyong peers at me, and after a beat, there’s a ghost of a smile on his lips. “The first dance will be with me, okay? And it won’t be on the dance floor,” he murmurs lasciviously into my ear. My giggles subside as anticipation fans the flames of my need. Oh yes! My inner goddess performs a perfect triple Salchow in her ice skates. “I look forward to it.” I lean over and plant a soft, chaste kiss on his mouth. Glancing around, I realize that our fellow guests at the table are astonished. Of course, they’ve never seen Jiyong with a date before. He smiles broadly. And he looks … happy. “Come on, Y/N,” Mia nags. Taking her outstretched hand, I follow her onto the stage, where ten more young women have assembled, and I note with vague unease that Lily is one of them. “Gentlemen, the highlight of the evening!” the MC booms over the babble of voices. “The moment you’ve all been waiting for! These twelve lovely ladies have all agreed to auction their first dance to the highest bidder!” Oh no. I blush from head to toe. I hadn’t realized what this meant. How humiliating! “It’s for a good cause,” Mia hisses at me, sensing my discomfort. “Besides, Jiyong will win.” She rolls her eyes. “I can’t imagine him letting anyone outbid him. He hasn’t taken his eyes off you all evening.” Yes, focus on the good cause, and Jiyong is bound to win. Let’s face it, he’s not short of a dime or two. But it means spending more money on you! my subconscious snarls at me. But I don’t want to dance with anyone else—I can’t dance with anyone else—and it’s not spending money on me, he’s donating it to the charity. Like the $24,000 he’s already spent? My subconscious narrows her eyes. Shit. I seem to have gotten away with my impulsive bid. Why am I arguing with myself? “Now, gentlemen, pray gather around, and take a good look at what could be yours for the first dance. Twelve comely and compliant wenches.” Jeez! I feel like I’m in a meat market. I watch, horrified, as at least twenty men make their way to the stage area, Jiyong included, moving with easy grace between the tables and pausing to say a few hellos on the way. Once the bidders are assembled, the MC begins. “Ladies and gentlemen, in the tradition of the masquerade we shall maintain the mystery behind the masks and stick to first names only. First up we have the lovely Jada.” Jada is giggling like a schoolgirl, too. Maybe I won’t be so out of place. She’s dressed head to foot in navy taffeta with a matching mask. Two young men step forward expectantly. Lucky Jada. “Jada speaks fluent Japanese, is a qualified fighter pilot, and an Olympic gymnast … hmm.” The MC winks. “Gentlemen, what am I bid?” Jada gapes, astounded at the MC; obviously, he’s talking complete garbage. She grins shyly back at the two contenders. “A thousand bucks!” one calls. Very quickly the bidding escalates to $5,000. “Going once … going twice … sold!” the MC declares loudly, “to the gentleman in the mask!” And of course, all the men are wearing masks so there are hoots of laughter, applause, and cheering. Jada beams at her purchaser and quickly exits the stage. “See? This is fun!” whispers Mia. “I hope Jiyong wins you, though … We don’t want a brawl,” she adds. “Brawl?” I answer horrified. “Oh yes. He was very hotheaded when he was younger.” She shudders. Jiyong brawling? Refined, sophisticated, likes-Tudor-choral-music Jiyong? I can’t see it. The MC distracts me with his next introduction—a young woman in red, with long jet-black hair. “Gentlemen, may I present the wonderful Mariah. What are we going to do about Mariah? She’s an experienced matador, plays the cello to concert standard, and she’s a champion pole-vaulter … how about that, gentlemen? What am I bid, please, for a dance with the delightful Mariah?” Mariah glares at the MC and someone yells, very loudly, “Three thousand dollars!” It’s a masked man with blond hair and beard. There is one counterbid, but Mariah sells for $4,000. Jiyong is watching me like a hawk. Brawler Trevelyan-Kwon—who would have known? “How long ago?” I ask Mia. She glances at me, nonplussed. “How long ago was Jiyong brawling?” “Early teens. Drove my parents crazy, coming home with cut lips and black eyes. He was expelled from two schools. He inflicted some serious damage on his opponents.” I gape at her. “Hasn’t he told you?” She sighs. “He got quite a bad rep among my friends. He was really persona non grata for a few years. But it stopped when he was about fifteen or sixteen.” She shrugs. Holy fuck. Another piece of the jigsaw falls into place. “So, what am I bid for the gorgeous Jill?” “Four thousand dollars,” a deep voice calls from the left side. Jill squeals in delight. I stop paying attention to the auction. So Jiyong was in that kind of trouble at school, fighting. I wonder why. I stare at him. Lily is watching us closely. “And now, allow me to introduce the beautiful Y/N.” Oh, shit, that’s me. I glance nervously at Mia, and she shoos me center stage. Fortunately I don’t fall over, but stand embarrassed as hell on display for everyone. When I look at Jiyong, he’s smirking at me. The bastard. “Beautiful Y/N plays six musical instruments, speaks fluent Mandarin, and is keen on yoga … well, gentlemen—” Before he can even finish his sentence Jiyong interrupts him, glaring at the MC through his mask. “Ten thousand dollars.” I hear Lily’s gasp of disbelief behind me. Oh, fuck. “Fifteen.” What? We all turn as one to a tall, impeccably dressed man standing to the left of the stage. I blink at Fifty. Shit, what will he make of this? But he’s scratching his chin and giving the stranger an ironic smile. It’s obvious Jiyong knows him. The stranger nods politely at Jiyong. “Well, gentlemen! We have high rollers in the house this evening.” The MC’s excitement emanates through his harlequin mask as he turns to beam at Jiyong. This is a great show, but it’s at my expense. I want to wail. “Twenty,” counters Jiyong quietly. The babble of the crowd has died. Everyone is staring at me, Jiyong, and Mr. Mysterious by the stage. “Twenty-five,” the stranger says. Could this be any more embarrassing? Jiyong stares at him impassively, but he’s amused. All eyes are on Jiyong. What’s he going to do? My heart is in my mouth. I feel sick. “One hundred thousand dollars,” he says, his voice ringing clear and loud through the tent. “What the fuck?” Lily hisses audibly behind me, and a general gasp of dismay and amusement ripples through the crowd. The stranger holds his hands up in defeat, laughing, and Jiyong smirks at him. From the corner of my eye, I can see Mia bouncing up and down with glee. “One hundred thousand dollars for the lovely Y/N! Going once … going twice …” The MC stares at the stranger, who shakes his head with mock regret and bows chivalrously. “Sold!” the MC cries out triumphantly. In a deafening round of applause and cheering, Jiyong steps forward to take my hand and help me from the stage. He gazes at me with an amused grin as I make my way down, kisses the back of my hand then tucks it into the crook of his arm, and leads me toward the tent’s exit. “Who was that?” I ask. He gazes down at me. “Someone you can meet later. Right now, I want to show you something. We have about thirty minutes until the First Dance Auction finishes. Then we have to be back on the dance floor so that I can enjoy that dance I’ve paid for.” “A very expensive dance,” I mutter disapprovingly. “I’m sure it’ll be worth every single cent.” He smiles down at me wickedly. Oh, he has a glorious smile, and the ache is back, blossoming in my body. We’re out on the lawn. I thought we would be heading to the boathouse, but disappointingly we seem to be heading for the dance floor where the big band is now setting up. There are at least twenty musicians, and a few guests are milling about, furtively smoking—but since most of the action is back in the tent, we don’t attract too much attention. Jiyong leads me to the rear of the house and opens a French window leading into a large comfortable sitting room that I’ve not seen before. He walks through the deserted hall toward the sweeping staircase with its elegant, polished wooden balustrade. Taking my hand from the crook of his arm, he leads me up to the second floor and up another flight of stairs to the third. Opening a white door, he ushers me into one of the bedrooms. “This was my room,” he says quietly, standing by the door and locking it behind him. It’s large, stark, and sparsely furnished. The walls are white, as is the furniture; a double bed, a desk and chair, shelves crammed with books and lined with various trophies for kickboxing, by the look of them. The walls are hung with movie posters: The Matrix, Fight Club, The Truman Show, and two framed posters featuring kickboxers. One is named Guiseppe DeNatale—I’ve never heard of him. But what catches my eye is the white bulletin board above the desk, studded with myriad photographs, Mariners pennants, and ticket stubs. It’s a slice of young Jiyong. My eyes come back to the magnificent man now standing in the center of the room. He looks at me darkly, brooding and sexy. “I’ve never brought a girl in here,” he murmurs. “Never?” I whisper. He shakes his head. I swallow convulsively, and the ache that has been bothering me for the last couple of hours is roaring now, raw and wanting. Seeing him standing there on the royal blue carpet in that mask … it’s beyond erotic. I want him. Now. Any way I can get him. I have to resist launching myself at him and ripping his clothes off. He waltzes over to me slowly. “We don’t have long, Y/N, and the way I’m feeling right this moment, we won’t need long. Turn around. Let me get you out of that dress.” I turn and stare at the door, grateful that he’s locked it. Bending down he whispers softly in my ear, “Keep the mask on.” I groan as my body clenches in response. He’s not even touched me yet. He grasps the top of my dress, his fingers sliding against my skin, and the touch reverberates through my body. In one swift move, he opens the zipper. Holding my dress, he helps me to step out of it, then turns and drapes it artfully over the back of a chair. Removing his jacket, he places it over my dress. He pauses, and stares at me for a moment, drinking me in. I’m in the basque and matching panties, and I revel in his sensuous gaze. “You know, Y/N,” he says softly as he stalks toward me, undoing his bow tie so it hangs from either side of his neck, then undoing the top three buttons of his shirt. “I was so mad when you bought my auction lot. All manner of ideas ran through my head. I had to remind myself that punishment is off the menu. But then you volunteered.” He gazes down at me through his mask. “Why did you do that?” he whispers. “Volunteer? I don’t know. Frustration … too much alcohol … worthy cause,” I mutter meekly, shrugging. Maybe to get his attention? I needed him then. I need him more now. The ache is worse, and I know he can soothe it, calm this roaring, salivating beast in me with the beast in him. His mouth presses into a line, and he slowly licks his upper lip. I want that tongue on me. “I vowed to myself I would not spank you again, even if you begged me.” “Please,” I beg. “But then I realized you’re probably very uncomfortable at the moment, and it’s not something you’re used to.” He smirks knowingly at me, arrogant bastard, but I don’t care because he’s absolutely right. “Yes,” I breathe. “So, there might be a certain … latitude. If I do this, you must promise me one thing.” “Anything.” “You will safe-word if you need to, and I will just make love to you, okay?” “Yes.” I’m panting. I want his hands on me. He swallows, then takes my hand, and moves toward the bed. Throwing the duvet aside, he sits down, grabs a pillow, and places it beside him. He gazes up at me standing beside him and suddenly tugs hard on my hand so that I fall across his lap. He shifts slightly so my body is resting on the bed, my chest on the pillow, my face to one side. Leaning over, he sweeps my hair over my shoulder and runs his fingers through the plume of feathers on my mask. “Put your hands behind your back,” he murmurs. Oh! He removes his bow tie and uses it to quickly bind my wrists so that my hands are tied behind me, resting in the small of my back. “You really want this, Y/N?” I close my eyes. This is the first time since I met him that I really want this. I need it. “Yes,” I whisper. “Why?” he asks softly as he caresses my behind with his palm. I groan as soon as his hand makes contact with my skin. I don’t know why … You tell me not to overthink. After a day like today—arguing about the money, Leila, Mrs. Robinson, the dossier on me, the road map, this lavish party, the masks, the alcohol, the silver balls, the auction … I want this. “Do I need a reason?” “No, baby, you don’t,” he says. “I’m just trying to understand you.” His left hand curls around my waist, holding me in place as his palm leaves my behind and lands hard, just above the junction of my thighs. The pain connects directly with the ache in my belly Oh, man … I moan loudly. He hits me again, in exactly the same place. I groan again. “Two,” he murmurs. “We’ll go with twelve.” Oh my! This feels different than the last time—so carnal, so … necessary. He caresses my behind with his long-fingered hands, and I’m helpless, trussed up and pressed into the mattress, at his mercy, and of my own free will. He hits me again, slightly to the side, and again, to the other side, then pauses as he slowly peels my panties down and pulls them off. He gently trails his palm across my behind again before continuing my spanking—each stinging smack taking the edge off my need—or fueling it—I don’t know. I surrender myself to the rhythm of blows, absorbing each one, savoring each one. “Twelve,” he murmurs his voice low and harsh. He caresses my behind again and trails his fingers down toward my sex and slowly sinks two fingers inside me, moving them in a circle, around and around and around, torturing me. I moan loudly as my body takes over, and I come and come, convulsing around his fingers. It’s so intense, unexpected, and quick. “That’s right, baby,” he murmurs appreciatively. He unties my wrists, keeping his fingers inside me as I lie panting and spent over him. “I’ve not finished with you yet, Anastasia,” he says and shifts without removing his fingers. He eases my knees onto the floor so that now I’m leaning over the bed. He kneels on the floor behind me and undoes his zipper. He slides his fingers out of me, and I hear the familiar tear of a foil packet. “Open your legs,” he growls, and I comply. He strokes my behind and eases into me. “This is going to be quick, baby,” he murmurs and grabbing my hips, he eases out then slams into me. “Ah!” I cry out, but the fullness is heavenly. He’s hitting the bellyache square on, again and again, eradicating it with each sharp, sweet thrust. The feeling is mindblowing, just what I need. I push back to meet him, thrust for thrust. “Ana, no,” he grunts, trying to still me. But I want him too much, and I grind against him, matching him thrust for thrust. “Ana, shit,” he hisses as he comes, and the tortured sound sets me off again, spiraling into a healing orgasm that goes on and on and wrings me out and leaves me spent and breathless. Jiyong bends and kisses my shoulder, then pulls out of me. Placing his arms around me, he rests his head in the middle of my back, and we lie like this, both kneeling at the bedside, for what? Seconds? Minutes, even, as our breathing calms. My bellyache has disappeared, and all I feel is a soothing, satisfying serenity. Jiyong stirs and kisses my back. “I believe you owe me a dance, Miss Y/L/N,” he murmurs. “Hmm,” I respond, savoring the absence of achiness and basking in the afterglow. He sits back on his heels and pulls me off the bed onto his lap. “We don’t have long. Come on.” He kisses my hair and forces me to stand. I grumble but sit back down on the bed and collect my panties from the floor and scoop them on. Lazily I walk to the chair to retrieve my dress. I note with dispassionate interest that I did not remove my shoes during our illicit tryst. Jiyong is tying his bow tie, having finished straightening himself and the bed. As I slip my dress back on, I check out the photographs on the bulletin board. Jiyong as a sullen teen was gorgeous even then: with Taeyang and Mia on the ski slopes; on his own in Paris, the Arc de Triomphe serving as a giveaway to his location; in London; New York; the Grand Canyon; Sydney Opera House; even the Great Wall of China. Master Kwon was well traveled at a young age. There are ticket stubs to various concerts: U2, Metallica, the Verve, Sheryl Crow, the New York Philharmonic performing Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet—what an eclectic mix! And in the corner, there’s a passport-sized photograph of a young woman. It’s in black and white. She looks familiar, but for the life of me, I can’t place her. Not Mrs. Robinson, thank heavens. “Who’s this?” I ask. “No one of consequence,” he mutters as he slips on his jacket and straightens his bow tie. “Shall I zip you up?” “Please. Then why is she on your bulletin board?” “An oversight on my part. How’s my tie?” He raises his chin like a small boy, and I grin and straighten it for him. “Now it’s perfect.” “Like you,” he murmurs and grabs me, kissing me passionately. “Feeling better?” “Much, thank you, Mr. Kwon.” “The pleasure was all mine, Miss Y/L/N.” THE GUESTS ARE ASSEMBLING on the dance floor. Jiyong grins at me—we’ve made it just in time —and he leads me onto the checkered floor. “And now, ladies and gentlemen, it’s time for the first dance. Mr. and Dr. Kwon, are you ready?” Carrick nods in agreement, his arms around Gi-ran. “Ladies and gentlemen of the First Dance Auction, are you ready?” We all nod in agreement. Mia is with someone I don’t recognize. I wonder what happened to Sean? “Then we shall begin. Take it away, Sam!” A young man strolls onto the stage amid warm applause, turns to the band behind him, and snaps his fingers. The familiar strains of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” fill the air. Jiyong smiles down at me, takes me in his arms, and starts to move. Oh, he dances so well, making it easy to follow. We grin at each other like idiots as he whirls me around the dance floor. “I love this song,” Jiyong murmurs, gazing down at me. “Seems very fitting.” He’s no longer grinning, but serious. “You’re under my skin, too,” I respond. “Or you were in your bedroom.” He purses his lips but he’s unable to hide his amusement. “Miss Y/L/N,” he admonishes me teasingly, “I had no idea you could be so crude.” “Mr. Kwon, neither did I. I think it’s all my recent experiences. They’ve been an education.” “For both of us.” Jiyong is serious again, and it could just be the two of us and the band. We are in our own private bubble. As the song finishes we both applaud. Sam the singer bows graciously and introduces his band. “May I cut in?” I recognize the man who bid on me at the auction. Jiyong grudgingly lets me go, but he’s amused, too. “Be my guest. Y/N, this is John Flynn. John, Y/N.” Shit! Jiyong grins and wanders off to one side of the dance floor. “How do you do, Y/N?” Dr. Flynn says smoothly, and I realize he’s British. “Hello,” I stutter. The band strikes up another song, and Dr. Flynn pulls me into his arms. He’s much younger than I imagined, though I can’t see his face. He’s wearing a mask similar to Jiyong’s. He’s tall, but not as tall as Jiyong, and he doesn’t move with Christian’s easy grace. What do I say to him? Why is Jiyong so fucked-up? Why did he bid on me? It’s the only thing I want to ask him, but somehow that seems rude. “I’m glad to finally meet you, Y/N. Are you enjoying yourself?” he asks. “I was,” I whisper. “Oh. I hope I’m not responsible for your change of heart.” He gives me a brief, warm smile that puts me a little more at ease. “Dr. Flynn, you’re the shrink. You tell me.” He grins. “That’s the problem, isn’t it? The shrink bit?” I giggle. “I’m worried what I might reveal, so I’m a little self-conscious and intimidated. And really I only want to ask you about Jiyong.” He smiles. “First, this is a party so I’m not on duty,” he whispers conspiratorially. “And second, I really can’t talk to you about Jiyong. Besides,” he teases, “we’d need until Christmas.” I gasp in shock. “That’s a doctor’s joke, Y/N.” I flush, embarrassed, and then feel slightly resentful. He’s making a joke at Jiyong’s expense. “You’ve just confirmed what I’ve been saying to Jiyong … that you’re an expensive charlatan,” I admonish him. Dr. Flynn snorts with laughter. “You could be on to something there.” “You’re British?” “Yes. Originally from London.” “How did you find yourself here?” “Happy circumstance.” “You don’t give much away, do you?” “There’s not much to give away. I’m really a very dull person.” “That’s very self-deprecating.” “It’s a British trait. Part of our national character.” “Oh.” “And I could accuse you of the same, Y/N .” “That I’m a dull person, too, Dr. Flynn?” He snorts. “No, Y/N. That you don’t give much away.” “There’s not much to give away.” I smile. “I sincerely doubt that.” He unexpectedly frowns. I flush, but the music finishes and Jiyong is once more by my side. Dr. Flynn releases me. “It’s been a pleasure to meet you, Y/N.” He gives me his warm smile again, and I feel that I’ve passed some kind of hidden test. “John.” Jiyong nods at him. “ Jiyong .” Dr. Flynn returns his nod, turns on his heel, and disappears through the crowd. Jiyong pulls me into his arms for the next dance. “He’s much younger than I expected,” I murmur to him. “And terribly indiscreet.” Jiyong cocks his head to one side. “Indiscreet?” “Oh yes, he told me everything,” I tease. Jiyong tenses. “Well, in that case, I’ll get your bag. I’m sure you want nothing more to do with me,” he says softly. I stop. “He didn’t tell me anything!” My voice fills with panic. Jiyong blinks before relief floods his face. He pulls me into his arms again. “Then let’s enjoy this dance.” He beams down at me, reassuring me, and then spins me around. Why would he think that I’d want to leave? It makes no sense. We dance for two more numbers, and I realize I need the restroom. “I won’t be long.” As I make my way to the powder room, I remember I have left my purse on the dinner table, so I head down to the tent. When I enter, it’s still lit but quite deserted, except for a couple at the other end, who really ought to get a room! I reach for my bag. “ Y/N?” A soft voice startles me, and I turn to see a woman dressed in a long, tight, black velvet gown. Her mask is unique. It covers her face to her nose but also covers her hair. It’s stunning, with elaborate gold filigree. “I’m so glad you’re on your own,” she says softly. “I’ve been wanting to talk to you all evening.” “I’m sorry, I don’t know who you are.” She pulls the mask from her face and releases her hair. Shit! It’s Mrs. Robinson. “I’m sorry, I startled you.” I gape at her. Holy cow—what the fuck does this woman want? I don’t know what the social conventions are for meeting known molesters of children. She’s smiling sweetly and gesturing for me to sit at the table. And because I am lacking any sphere of reference, I do as she asks out of stunned politeness, grateful that I am still wearing my mask. “I’ll be brief, Y/N. I know what you think of me … Jiyong’s told me.” I gaze at her impassively, giving nothing away, but I’m pleased that she knows. It saves me telling her, and she’s cutting to the chase. Part of me is beyond intrigued as to what she could have to say. She pauses, glancing over my shoulder. “Taylor’s watching us.” I peek around to see him scanning the tent by the doorway. Sawyer is with him. They are looking anywhere but at us. “Look, we don’t have long,” she says hurriedly. “It must be obvious to you that Jiyong is in love with you. I have never seen him like this, ever.” She emphasizes the last word. What? Loves me? No. Why is she telling me? To reassure me? I don’t understand. “He won’t tell you because he probably doesn’t realize it himself, notwithstanding what I’ve said to him, but that’s Jiyong. He’s not very attuned to any positive feelings and emotions he may have. He dwells far too much on the negative. But then, you’ve probably worked that out for yourself. He doesn’t think he’s worthy.” I am reeling. Jiyong loves me? He hasn’t said it, and this woman has told him that’s how he feels? How bizarre. A hundred images dance through my head: the iPad, the gliding, flying to see me, all his actions, his possessiveness, $100,000 for a dance. Is this love? And hearing it from this woman, having her confirm it for me is, frankly, unwelcome. I’d rather hear it from him. My heart constricts. He feels unworthy? Why? “I’ve never seen him so happy, and it’s obvious that you have feelings for him, too.” A brief smile flits across her lips. “That’s great, and I wish you both the best of everything. But what I wanted to say is if you hurt him again, I will find you, lady, and it won’t be pleasant when I do.” She stares at me, ice-cold blue eyes boring into my skull, trying to get under my mask. Her threat is so astonishing, so off the wall, that an involuntary, disbelieving giggle escapes me. Of all the things she could say to me, this is the least expected. “You think this is funny, Y/N?” she splutters in dismay. “You didn’t see him last Saturday.” My face falls and darkens. The thought of Jiyong unhappy is not a palatable one, and last Saturday I left him. He must have gone to her. The idea makes me queasy. Why am I sitting here, listening to this shit from her, of all people? I slowly rise, gazing at her intently. “I’m laughing at your audacity, Mrs. Lincoln. Jiyong and I have nothing to do with you. And if I do leave him and you come looking for me, I’ll be waiting—don’t doubt it. And maybe I’ll give you a taste of your own medicine on behalf of the fifteen-year-old child you molested and probably fucked up even more than he already was.” Her mouth falls open. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have better things to do than waste my time with you.” I turn on my heel, adrenaline and anger coursing through my body, and stalk toward the entrance of the tent where Taylor is standing just as Jiyong arrives, looking flustered and worried. “There you are,” he mutters, then frowns when he sees Chaerin. I stride past him, saying nothing, giving him the opportunity to choose—her or me. He makes the right choice. “ Y/N,” he calls. I stop and face him as he catches up with me. “What’s wrong?” He gazes down at me, concern etched on his face. “Why don’t you ask your ex?” I hiss acidly. His mouth twists and his eyes frost. “I’m asking you,” he says, his voice soft but with an undertone of something far more menacing. We glare at each other. Okay, I can see this will end in a fight if I don’t tell him. “She’s threatening to come after me if I hurt you again—probably with a whip,” I snap at him. Relief flashes across his face, his mouth softening with humor. “Surely the irony of that isn’t lost on you?” he says, and I can tell he’s trying hard to stifle his amusement. “This isn’t funny, Jiyong!” “No, you’re right. I’ll talk to her.” He adopts his serious face, though he’s still suppressing his amusement. “You will do no such thing.” I cross my arms, my anger spiking again. He blinks at me, surprised by my outburst. “Look, I know you’re tied up with her financially, forgive the pun, but—” I stop. What am I asking him to do? Give her up? Stop seeing her? Can I do that? “I need the restroom.” I glare up at him, my mouth set in a grim line. He sighs and cocks his head to one side. Could he look any hotter? Is it the mask or just him? “Please don’t be mad. I didn’t know she was here. She said she wasn’t coming.” His tone is placating as if he’s talking to a child. Reaching up he runs his thumb along my pouting bottom lip. “Don’t let Chaerin ruin our evening, please, Y/N. She’s really old news.” “Old” being the operative word, I think uncharitably, as he tips my chin up and gently grazes his lips against mine. I sigh in agreement, blinking up at him. He straightens and takes my elbow. “I’ll accompany you to the powder room so you don’t get interrupted again.” He leads me across the lawn toward the luxurious temporary restrooms. Mia said they had been delivered for the occasion, but I had no idea they came in deluxe versions. “I’ll wait here for you, baby,” he murmurs. When I come out, my mood has moderated. I have decided not to let Mrs. Robinson blight my evening because that’s probably what she wants. Jiyong is on the phone some distance away and out of earshot of the few people laughing and chatting nearby. As I get closer, I can hear him. He’s very terse. “Why did you change your mind? I thought we’d agreed. Well, leave her alone … This is the first regular relationship I’ve ever had, and I don’t want you jeopardizing it through some misplaced concern for me. Leave. Her. Alone. I mean it, Chaerin.” He pauses, listening. “No, of course not.” He frowns deeply as he says this. Glancing up, he sees me regarding him. “I have to go. Good night.” He presses the off button. I cock my head to one side and raise an eyebrow at him. Why is he phoning her? “How’s the old news?” “Cranky,” he replies sardonically. “Do you want to dance some more? Or would you like to go?” He glances at his watch. “The fireworks start in five minutes.” “I love fireworks.” “We’ll stay and watch them, then.” He puts his arms around me and pulls me close. “Don’t let her come between us, please.” “She cares about you,” I mutter. “Yes, and I her … as a friend.” “I think it’s more than a friendship to her.” His brow furrows. “ Y/N, Chaerin and I … it’s complicated. We have a shared history. But it is just that, history. As I’ve said to you time and time again, she’s a good friend. That’s all. Please, forget about her.” He kisses my hair, and in the interest of not ruining our evening, I let it go. I am just trying to understand. We wander hand in hand back to the dance floor. The band is still in full swing. “ Y/N .” I turn to find Carrick standing behind us. “I wondered if you’d do me the honor of the next dance.” Carrick holds his hand out to me. Jiyong shrugs and smiles, releasing my hand, and I let Carrick lead me onto the dance floor. Sam the bandleader launches into “Come Fly with Me,” and Carrick puts his arm around my waist and gently whirls me into the throng. “I wanted to thank you for the generous contribution to our charity, Y/N.” From his tone, I suspect this is his roundabout way of asking whether I can afford it. “Mr. Kwon—” “Call me Carrick, please, Y/N .” “I’m delighted to be able to contribute. I unexpectedly came into some money. I don’t need it. And it’s such a worthy cause.” He smiles down at me, and I seize the opportunity for some innocent inquiries. Carpe diem, my subconscious hisses from behind her hand. “ Jiyong told me a little about his past, so I think it’s appropriate to support your work,” I add, hoping that this might encourage Carrick to give me a small insight into the mystery that is his son. Carrick is surprised. “Did he? That’s unusual. You certainly have had a very positive effect on him, Y/N. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him so, so … buoyant.” I flush. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to embarrass you.” “Well, in my limited experience, he’s a very unusual man,” I murmur. “He is,” Carrick agrees quietly. “ Jiyong ’s early childhood sounds hideously traumatic, from what he’s told me.” Carrick frowns, and I worry if I’ve overstepped the mark. “My wife was the doctor on duty when the police brought him in. He was skin and bones, and badly dehydrated. He wouldn’t speak.” Carrick frowns again, lost in the awful memory, despite the up-tempo music surrounding us. “In fact, he didn’t speak for nearly two years. It was playing the piano that eventually brought him out of himself. Oh, and Mia’s arrival, of course.” He smiles down at me fondly. “He plays beautifully. And he’s accomplished so much, you must be very proud of him.” I sound distracted. Holy Shit. Didn’t speak for two years. “Immensely so. He’s a very determined, very capable, very bright young man. But between you and me, Y/N , it’s seeing him like he is this evening—carefree, acting his age—that’s the real thrill for his mother and me. We were both commenting on it today. I believe we have you to thank for that.” I think I blush to my roots. What am I supposed to say to this? “He’s always been such a loner. We never thought we’d see him with anyone. Whatever you’re doing, please don’t stop. We’d like to see him happy.” He stops suddenly, as if he’s overstepped the mark. “I’m sorry, I don’t mean to make you uncomfortable.” I shake my head. “I’d like to see him happy, too,” I mutter, unsure of what else to say. “Well, I’m very glad you came this evening. It’s been a real pleasure seeing the two of you together.” As the final strains of “Come Fly with Me” fade away, Carrick releases me and bows, and I curtsy, mirroring his civility. “That’s enough dancing with old men.” Jiyong is at my side again. Carrick laughs. “Less of the ‘old,’ son. I’ve been known to have my moments.” Carrick winks at me playfully and saunters into the crowd. “I think my dad likes you,” Christian mutters as he watches his father mingle with the crowd. “What’s not to like?” I peek coquettishly up at him through my lashes. “Good point well made, Miss Y/L/N.” He pulls me into an embrace as the band starts to play “It Had to Be You.” “Dance with me,” he whispers seductively. “With pleasure, Mr. Kwon.” I smile in response, and he sweeps me across the dance floor once more. AT MIDNIGHT WE STROLL down toward the shore between the tent and the boathouse where the other partygoers are gathered to watch the fireworks. The MC, back in charge, has permitted the removal of masks, the better to see the display. Jiyong has his arm around me, but I’m aware that Taylor and Sawyer are close by, probably because we’re in the crowd now. They are looking anywhere but at the dockside where two technicians dressed in black are making their final preparations. Seeing Taylor reminds me of Leila. Perhaps she’s here. Shit. The thought chills my blood, and I huddle closer to Jiyong. He gazes down at me as he pulls me closer. “You okay, baby? Cold?” “I’m fine.” I glance quickly behind us and see the other two security guys, whose names I forget, standing close by. Moving me in front of him, Jiyong puts both his arms around me over my shoulders. Suddenly a stirring classical soundtrack booms over the dock and two rockets soar into the air, exploding with a deafening bang over the bay, lighting it all in a dazzling canopy of sparkling orange and white that’s reflected in a glittering shower over the still calm water of the bay. My jaw drops as several more rockets fire into the air and explode in a kaleidoscope of color. I can’t recall ever seeing a display this impressive, except perhaps on television, and it never looks this good on TV. It’s all in time to the music. Volley after volley, bang after bang, and light after light as the crowd answers with gasps and oohs and ahs. It is out of this world. On the pontoon in the bay several silver fountains of light shoot up twenty feet in the air, changing color through blue, red, orange, and back to silver—and yet more rockets explode as the music reaches its crescendo. My face is beginning to ache from the ridiculous grin of wonder plastered across it. I glance at Fifty, and he’s the same, marveling like a child at the sensational show. For the finale a volley of six rockets shoot into the dark and explode simultaneously, bathing us in a glorious golden light as the crowd erupts into frantic, enthusiastic applause. “Ladies and gentlemen,” the MC calls out as the cheers and whistles fade. “Just one note to add at the end of this wonderful evening; your generosity has raised a total of one million eight hundred and fifty-three thousand dollars!” Spontaneous applause erupts again, and out on the pontoon, a message lights up in silver streams of sparks forming the words “Thank You from Coping Together,” sparkling and shimmering over the water. “Oh, Jiyong … that was wonderful.” I grin up at him and he bends down to kiss me. “Time to go,” he murmurs, a broad smile on his beautiful face, and his words hold so much promise. Suddenly, I feel very tired. He glances up again, and Taylor is close, the crowd dispersing around us. They don’t speak but something passes between them. “Stay with me a moment. Taylor wants us to wait while the crowd disperses.” Oh. “I think that fireworks display probably aged him a hundred years,” he adds. “Doesn’t he like fireworks?” Jiyong gazes down at me fondly and shakes his head but doesn’t elaborate. “So, Aspen,” he says, and I know he’s trying to distract me from something. It works. “Oh … I haven’t paid for my bid,” I gasp. “You can send a check. I have the address.” “You were really mad.” “Yes, I was.” I grin. “I blame you and your toys.” “You were quite overcome, Miss Y/L/N. A most satisfactory outcome if I recall.” He smiles salaciously. “Incidentally, where are they?” “The silver balls? In my bag.” “I’d like them back. They are far too potent a device to be left in your innocent hands.” “Worried I might be quite overcome again, maybe with somebody else?” His eyes glitter dangerously. “I hope that’s not going to happen,” he says, a cool edge to his voice. “But no, Y/N . I want all your pleasure.” Whoa. “Don’t you trust me?” “Implicitly. Now, can I have them back?” “I’ll think about it.” He narrows his eyes at me. There’s music once more from the dance floor but it’s a DJ playing a thumping dance number, the bass pounding out a relentless beat. “Do you want to dance?” “I’m really tired, Jiyong. I’d like to go, if that’s okay.” Jiyong glances at Taylor, who nods, and we set off toward the house, following a couple of drunken guests. I’m grateful when Jiyong takes my hand—my feet are aching from the dizzying height and tight confinement of my shoes. Mia comes bounding up to us. “You’re not going, are you? The real music’s just beginning. Come on, Y/N .” She grabs my hand. “Mia,” Jiyong admonishes her. “ Y/N’stired. We’re going home. Besides, we have a big day tomorrow.” We do? Mia pouts but surprisingly doesn’t push Jiyong. “You must come by sometime next week. Maybe we can hit the mall?” “Sure, Mia.” I grin, though in the back of my mind I’m wondering how since I have to work for a living. She gives me a quick kiss then hugs Jiyong fiercely, taking us both by surprise. More astoundingly still, she places her hands directly on the lapels of his jacket, and he just gazes down at her, indulgently. “I like seeing you this happy,” she says sweetly and kisses him on the cheek. “Bye. You guys have fun.” She skips off toward her waiting friends—among them Lily, who looks even more sour-faced without her mask. I wonder idly where Sean is. “We’ll say good night to my parents before we leave. Come.” Jiyong leads me through a gaggle of guests to Gi-ran and Carrick, who wish us fond and warm farewells. “Please do come again, Y/N, it’s been lovely having you here,” says Gi-ran kindly. I am a little overwhelmed by both her and Carrick’s reaction. Fortunately, Gi-ra’s parents have retired for the evening, so at least I am spared their enthusiasm. In a relaxed, weary silence, Jiyong and I walk hand in hand to the front of the house, where countless cars are lined up waiting to collect guests. I glance up at Fifty. He looks happy. It’s a real pleasure to see him this way, though I suspect it’s unusual after such an extraordinary day. “Are you warm enough?” he asks. “Yes, thank you.” I clasp my satin wrap. “I really enjoyed this evening, Y/N. Thank you.” “Me too, some parts more than others.” I grin. He grins and nods, then his brow creases. “Don’t bite your lip,” he warns in a way that makes my blood sing. “What did you mean about a big day tomorrow?” I ask to distract myself. “Dr. Greene is coming to sort you out. Plus, I have a surprise for you.” “Dr. Greene!” I halt. “Yes.” “Why?” “Because I hate condoms,” he says quietly. His eyes glint in the soft light from the paper lanterns, gauging my reaction. “It’s my body,” I mutter, annoyed that he hasn’t asked me. “It’s mine, too,” he whispers. I gaze up at him as various guests pass by, ignoring us. He looks so earnest. Yes, my body is his … he knows it better than I do. I reach up, and he flinches ever so slightly but stays still. Grasping the corner of his bow tie, I pull so it unravels, revealing the top button of his shirt. Gently I undo it. “You look hot like this,” I whisper. Actually he looks hot all the time, but really hot like this. He smiles. “I need to get you home. Come.” At the car, Sawyer hands Jiyong an envelope. He frowns at it and glances at me as Taylor ushers me into the car. Taylor looks relieved for some reason. Jiyong climbs in and hands me the envelope, unopened, as Taylor and Sawyer take their seats in the front. “It’s addressed to you. One of the staff gave it to Sawyer. No doubt from yet another ensnared heart.” Jiyong’s mouth twists. It’s obvious this is an unpleasant concept to him. I stare at the note. Who is this from? Ripping it open, I read it quickly in the dim light. Holy shit, it’s from her! Why won’t she leave me alone? I may have misjudged you. And you have definitely misjudged me. Call me if you need to fill in any of the blanks—we could have lunch. Jiyong doesn’t want me talking to you, but I would be more than happy to help. Don’t get me wrong, I approve, believe me—but so help me, if you hurt him … He’s been hurt enough. Call me: (206) 279-6261 Mrs. Robinson Fuck, she’s signed it Mrs. Robinson! He told her. The bastard. “You told her?” “Told who, what?” “That I call her Mrs. Robinson,” I snap. “It’s from Chaerin?” Jiyong is shocked. “This is ridiculous,” he grumbles, running a hand through his hair, and I can tell he’s irritated. “I’ll deal with her tomorrow. Or Monday,” he mutters bitterly. And though I’m ashamed to admit it, a very small part of me is pleased. My subconscious nods sagely. Chaerin is pissing him off, and this can only be good—surely. I decide to say nothing for now but stash her note in my bag, and in a gesture guaranteed to lighten his mood, I hand him back the balls. “Until next time,” I murmur. He glances at me, and it’s hard to see his face in the dark, but I think he’s smirking. He reaches for my hand and squeezes it. I gaze out of the window into the darkness, reflecting on this long day. I’ve learned so much about him, gleaned many missing details—the salons, the road map, his childhood—but there’s still much more to discover. And what about Mrs. R? Yes, she cares for him, and deeply, it would appear. I can see that, and he cares for her—but not in the same way. I don’t know what to think anymore. All this information is making my head hurt. JIYONG WAKES ME JUST as we pull up outside Escala. “Do I need to carry you in?” he asks gently. I shake my head sleepily. No way. As we stand in the elevator, I lean against him, putting my head against his shoulder. Sawyer stands in front of us, shifting uncomfortably. “It’s been a long day, eh, Y/N?” I nod. “Tired?” I nod. “You’re not very talkative.” I nod and he grins. “Come. I’ll put you to bed.” He takes my hand as we exit the elevator, but we stop in the foyer when Sawyer holds up his hand. In that split second, I am instantly wide awake. Sawyer talks into his sleeve. I had no idea that he was wearing a radio. “Will do, T,” he says and turns to face us. “Mr. Kwon, the tires on Ms. Y/L/N’s Audi have been slashed and paint thrown all over it.” Holy shit. My car! Who would do that? And I know the answer as soon as the question materializes in my mind. Leila. I glance up at Jiyong , and he blanches. “Taylor is concerned that the perp may have entered the apartment and may still be there. He wants to make sure.” “I see,” Jiyong whispers. “What’s Taylor’s plan?” “He’s coming up in the service elevator with Ryan and Reynolds. They’ll do a sweep, then give us the all clear. I’m to wait with you, sir.” “Thank you, Sawyer.” Jiyong tightens his arm around me. “This day just gets better and better,” he sighs bitterly, nuzzling my hair. “Listen, I can’t stand here and wait. Sawyer, take care of Miss Y/L/N. Don’t let her in until you have the all clear. I am sure Taylor is overreacting. She can’t get into the apartment.” What? “No, Jiyong —you have to stay with me,” I plead. Jiyong releases me. “Do as you’re told, Y/N. Wait here.” No! “Sawyer?” Jiyong says. Sawyer opens the foyer door to let Jiyong enter the apartment then shuts the door behind him and stands in front of it, staring impassively down at me. Holy shit. Jiyong! All manner of horrific outcomes run through my mind, but all I can do is stand and wait.
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ritacaroline · 6 years ago
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In The Light         Jimmy Page Fan Fiction        Part 34
Part 34   Next Door with Nell
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The door opened and a lovely woman stood there wearing a great smile. “Hello, Jill !” she exclaimed. As Jill handed Jake the pup to her, Nell said, “Oh my goodness, thank you so much !”
Nell was a dark haired young woman, about Jill’s age. She was obviously very pregnant from the looks of things. She seemed to be of Indian descent, was quite pretty and had a warm loving voice.
Jill, also with a big smile, said, “You’re very welcome. Glad we found him. It’s good to meet you.”
A little boy came running in and stood partially behind his mom. He held onto the leg of her jeans and spoke loudly. “You brought him back !! You found him ! Yay !  Thank you, thank you !” not addressing anyone in particular.  As he took the puppy from his mom, he ran off to the other room.
Nell said, “That’s my son Ben. He’s five now. He was so happy when I told him you had Jake. Oh, my God, what if the pup had been lost for good, or met his end in the roadway ? He would’ve never gotten over it ! But, wow, have I learned. Thank you again.”
“Yes, I understand. But it was no trouble at all for us. We simply drove into the driveway and there he was !” said Jill.
“ Jill, let me pour you some tea, and we can chat. I notice from your sweet accent that you’re American.”
“Oh, yes, I just arrived here about 10 days ago. I’m from New York.”
“Oh my ! I had no idea. I predicted you’d been here a long while. It’s not easy to meet neighbors, with the homes being so far from each other in this neighborhood. A lot of privacy around here, isn’t there ?” Nell remarked.
Jill said, “Yes, there sure is.  I assume you don’t know Jimmy. We met in New York and I’ve come to live with him here.”
“Oh, that’s wonderful. No, I don’t know Jimmy. I’ve seen the man next door on occasion, and we wave if we see him in the yard or such. I assume he’s Jimmy, he doesn’t seem to be around much. Haven’t introduced ourselves yet.  He’s very quiet. He seems private and we didn’t want to impose on his privacy.  So, how do you like it here so far ?”
Jill said, “So far so good, but I haven’t been around town much. I don’t really know anyone here yet.  The only people I know so far are Jimmy’s bandmates and their wives or girlfriends.”
“Bandmates ? So, he’s a musician. I didn’t know. Might I know of his group ?” she asked.
“You might. Led Zeppelin.”
“You’re serious ?” Nell asked, startled.
“Yes.” said Jill.
“We’ve been living next door to Jimmy of Led Zeppelin all this time and didn’t know it ? What a surprising bit of knowledge !  I’m a big fan of them ! So’s my husband, George. He’s going to be amazed. We don’t know any of our neighbors. It’s not right.” said Nell.  “I’m glad we met. It’s hard being isolated here. And all my family is in India, so I don’t see them much. And I’ve been pretty lonely.  And as you can see, I’m pregnant.”
“Yes, Nell, I see !  Congratulations ! When is the baby due ?” said Jill.
“He or she is due in two weeks. But we’re on the alert, it can happen anytime. Benny’s birth was pretty easy, so I’m hoping for the same with this little one. I’m a bit stressed over it.” said Nell.
“Oh, I totally understand your thinking. Sounds pretty reasonable to me. Although I’m not a mom. But, let me give you our number. I’m around a lot, so give me a call if you want to chat or need something. ” said Jill.
So, the women exchanged phone numbers. At that point, Ben came running into the room with the puppy. “Mommy ? Jake wants something to eat. He says he’s hungry and I am too.  And, (addressing Jill) my name is Ben. What’s yours ?”
“I’m Jill. Nice to meet you. I live next door.” she said.
He put out his hand and held hers and shook it in a rough over exaggerated shake.
Jill smiled, and Nell said in a low whisper, “He’s a little precocious. Sometimes a little too smart for his own good. ”
He said, “Mom, what are you whispering ?”
Nell said, “Just alerting Jill on how sharp you are for such a young guy, sweetie.”
“Ohhh. I see. I am pretty sharp, I guess. And I can have nice manners sometimes too.” and he took Jill’s hand and petted it a little. He added, “You’re nice and I like your hair. It’s so looong and yellowish !”
Jill said, “How sweet of you to say such a lovely thing, honey. You’re a really nice young guy !”
Ben answered, “Thank you, but I need to go now. I have important stuff to do now. So mom, please call me if my food is ready.” and off he ran.  Adorable. Very smart.
Nell fed the puppy then gave Benny a sandwich and milk, which he scarfed down then ran again.  Things to do.
Jill and Nell sat and sipped tea and got to know each other. It was an extremely relaxed and pleasant afternoon. Jill learned that George was a realtor and was pretty successful at it. Nell herself was a sales rep for a pharmaceutical company, but took a break from that once Benny was born. She was an intelligent hard working woman, and now a full time mom. Possibly planning to go back to work at some point.  So Jill invited her to her place next door in the very near future and Nell was glad to agree. After a couple hours, Jill said goodbye to the new friends and headed back. She was really glad to have met them.
And once Jill got back to Jim, he was done with his work and was very anxious to see her. 
Jimmy greeted her with a warm embrace and kissed her on the mouth and face. He was smiling and sweet as usual. “Jill, just in time for dinner. Mrs. Kelly just finished making our dinner. Come and eat.”
They had a really delicious dinner with some great wine and talked about what they had done during the day.  After Jill described all about Nell and Ben, she said, “ Do you mind if Nell comes over here next week to hang out with me ? We want to talk and I would like it if she came over.”
“Of course I don’t mind, angel. You live here, this is your place too, now. Feel free to have people over if you want. I’m glad you have people you know here now. You’re very friendly and social and there’s no reason for you to be isolated here. Anything you like, baby. I want you to be happy.”
 Jimmy said, “Oh, so tomorrow is New Year’s Eve you know. And Jones called earlier while you were out and invited us to a gathering there.  He has a nice place and a couple kids.  Would you like to go ?”
“Yeah sure, I would love that. I like being with everyone, especially the exciting stuff.” Jill answered.
“Oh yeah, real exciting ! I’m interested to hang out there with everyone, but as far as exciting goes,…..  The best part of going is having you next to me. Makes everything better for me.” he said.
“Jim, what a sweet thing to say. You’re amazing at sparking a fire in my heart. I feel it burning right now.“  she said in an inviting tone.
He stared at her with a longing expression and leaned toward her to place a smoldering kiss on her lips. She felt her heart beating harder, he was so unbelievably sexy. She put her hands behind his two gorgeous shoulders and massaged him there awhile, then onto his neck and into his hair and scalp. Just touching him like that excited her and had her aching for him.
He began to run his hands firmly up and down her back and around her waist and hips. He placed his mouth at the side of her neck and gently kissed her and nibbled her there and under her jaw by her throat. He had his other hand massaging the side of her head and running his fingers through her soft hair. She was blazing hot inside now and they naturally stood up and pressed their bodies against each other. He put two hands up the back of her shirt and felt the warm skin of her sexy back and shoulder blades. “You have me on fire for you now, darling,” he murmured in a soft scratchy voice. 
“You are the hottest, sexiest man I’ve ever been with. I need to have you now.” she said.
“You don’t even have to mention it,… you have me.” he said.
His house contained several huge rooms with tall ceilings and also many smaller rooms set off to the sides of them. Many rooms of varying sizes. All decorated interestingly. He took her hand and led her into the nearby cozy room where there was a soft fluffy floor covering in the center of it. They lay down on it and he started undressing her there, while urgently but passionately kissing her. She unzipped his jeans and slid them down his sexy hips and legs, then off. There was a big couch in there and some floor lamps and also, a bouquet of flowers in a vase. Tons of pillows and a couple of throw blankets. Appeared that a decorator planned out the beautiful décor.
Jimmy’s shirt was open wide but not off. Jill slowly ran her hands inside it, feeling the warm skin at his sides and along his perfect sexy back. His body was absolutely divine in every way. Just the smell and texture of his smooth skin was enough to take her breath away. He ran his hands slowly along and down the length of both of her long lovely legs, registering every inch of her flesh in his mind. He even needed to hold and feel each ankle and each foot, and kiss her there tenderly with the heat of anticipation in his focus. Jimmy said in a breathy whisper, “Your incredible body has me out of my mind.” She felt his hardness against her stomach and helped him off with the last pieces of his clothes. She pressed her warm hands all over him and massaged him in an extremely intimate sensual way. She repositioned herself and began to pleasure him with her mouth. He was absolutely loving it, closing his eyes with an intense look on his beautiful face. He was making some low humming noises, while he was in a state of lovely rapture. They had one of the hottest evenings of mind blowing sex imaginable. He was absolutely dizzy and drenched in perspiration and he didn’t want it to end. “What are you doing to me, woman.” he whispered roughly.  After he returned to clarity, he said, “I was so entangled with you just now, I felt that I just had to stay like that with you. That was the most pure state of bliss I’ve been in since I can’t remember. I can’t let go of you. So please don’t runaway from me.”
“I’m not going anywhere… and I have no plans of letting go of you.” said Jill. So they lay there like that for awhile kissing and holding each other, and it was extremely heavenly.
Next Part (35) :  https://ritacaroline.tumblr.com/post/175297770606/in-the-light-jimmy-page-fan-fiction-part
Chapter Index :
https://ritacaroline.tumblr.com/Fan%20Fiction
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attract-mode-collective · 7 years ago
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It’s Still (Pixelated) Hot Dog Legs Season
Fall should officially be in full swing by now, yet here in NYC (and many other parts of the US), it still feels like summer. Which I’m not thrilled about, though at the very least, I don’t feel so bad for sharing the above (by Robert Penney) so late into September.
On that note, time for a way overdue game culture round up! It’s been a while, and a LOT been going on. And not to be a downer, but the chaotic weather has been in the news, obviously.
Here’s a pic from Gamer Geek Nation on Facebook, who shared the aftermath of the Hurricane Harvey, along with: “… This is a time when we collectors need to remind ourselves that ultimately, this is just stuff, and our lives are more important. And make sure your collection is insured properly.”
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Elsewhere in the world, the Tokyo Game Show just wrapped up, and not to repeat the obvious, but yes… the biggest, most exciting news was the Sonic X Hooters collab…
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Though the one between Hello Kitty and Game Center CX is far, far better (photo courtesy of Kotaku)…
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You also have this comically large Rockman doll, which apparently was available on Amazon but is now out of stock…
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Though I mostly wished I had been there to pick up some primo looking attire, like this Mega Drive track jacket that miki800 gave the heads up on before show time (there was also a Dreamcast hoodie that I personally don’t think looks as nice, hence why I’m skipping it)…
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I also really like this Pac-Man shirt…
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This Galaga shirt as well…
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Also taking place in Japan was an exhibition held by the JARGA (Japan Retro Game Association); miki800 was there and captured some interesting bits of hardware, with the highlight being (IMHO) this Mega Drive clone that resembles a perfect mix of the model 1 MD and the original Wondermega…
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There’s no preview of the music yet, though may as well share the recently unveiled cover to the third (and final) installment of 8 BIT MUSIC POWER…
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Meanwhile, according to Original Sound Version, Mitch Murder has released yet another soundtrack to another game that never existed. In this it didn’t come out for the Mega CD and doesn’t involve mecha…
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Remember that Jet Set Radio figure I showed a while ago? Well, it's finally available for pre-order! Alas, it's not cheap, at least over at Big Bad Toy Store...
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BTW, videogamesdensetsu shares with us what Beat looks like, sans-cel shading…
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Sticking with VCD for a tad bit; here’s what Pulseman looked originally looked like, and he sure was cute!
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Whereas NiGHTS looked goofier… as well as more menacing….
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Am confident most people will not give a rat’s ass about seeing hand drawn Virtua Racing track designs, but as a massive fan of the series, oh man, oh man, oh man...
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Two never before seen Saturn prototypes that must be: “[taken] with a grain of salt!”
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Apparently Looney Tunes X The Matrix was actually a thing? Somehow this does not surprise me…
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The work of Hideaki Kodama was recently highlighted, which was also recently auctioned; I wonder how much this painting of various PC Engine hardware went for?
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Yet another Kickstarter mention? Yup. And this one is Jed Henry's third crowdfunding campaign: this particular variant of the Ukiyo-e Heroes concentrates on boss battles, with perhaps my fave piece being his depiction from The Breath of the Wild...
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Am particularly fond of this image from the Street Fighter 25th Anniversary art book that grease-howard spotted, of old Chun Li chumming it up with her younger self...
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Any and all BoJack Horseman fans out there may want to pick up this piece by Jude Buffum...
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legendofnes reminds of that time Batman visited New Donk City…
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It's just a bunch of cyber kids, all just hanging around, by sanigo...
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Speaking of the gang, here we have the kids from Persona 5, by @aranciart…
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Apparently, if Jedah (from Darkstalkers) ran a juice stand, it wouldn’t be the best, according to dreaminerryday…
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The individual who runs SPLENDID LAND describes SLN-003 Gacha Man as a: "vendor robot who dispenses toys. even he doesn’t know what’s inside the capsules, so he always gets excited to find out"...
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Meanwhile, here’s official artwork of Mario and Peach, courtesy of the thevideogameartarchive’s catalogue of the Mario Golf N64 manual; am pretty sure I’ve seen images of Mario looking distressed, though never to this degree…
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The above is something Super Mario Broth would normally deliver, and speaking of, may as well share some recent faves on that end! Like these photos from a promotional campaign with a Japanese sports drink when promoting Mario Sports Superstars…
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Instructions found on the arcade cabinet for Vs. Super Mario Bros (which I remember so distinctly, and fondly)…
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From some Japanese video guide for the same game (am assuming the home Famicom version this time)…
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A greeting card (am assuming a Valentine’s)...
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Mario without his hat, as he appears in a Game Boy controller test cart that Nintendo service reps used to calibrate buttons on a the handheld…
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And he we have a shortcut in SMB3 that I had no idea existed, and it’s a safe bet that most don’t either: “In Super Mario Bros. 3, the rock between the path to the first fortress in World 4 and the Spade Panel can be destroyed with a Hammer item, allowing the player to bypass the fortress. There is no obvious indication that this rock is destructible, as it is surrounded by decorative rocks. In fact, many guides for Super Mario Bros. 3 do not mention this shortcut.”
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As for Super Mario Broth’s counterpart, Sonic the Hedgeblog has seen plenty of action as well… largely pinpointing all the obscure references found in Sonic Mania, So head over for that if that sounds like fun to you! Otherwise, there’s also the Mario Bros having a Sonic Panic…
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A reminder of how Sonic looked at one point as he was being prepped for the Dreamcast; it would appear that at a certain point, in Sonic Adventure, he was going to look a lot more realistic…
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And this issue with EGM featuring a sneak preview of Sonic 2 is the very first video game magazine that I ever picked up!
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Meanwhile, oldgamemags recently posted a page from an issue of GamePro, circa 2000, on a peripheral that allowed the Game Boy to play mp3s. Am sharing it cuz I really want a GB-looking mp3 player…
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So someone on Twitter (who has since protected his account, so I’ll have to refer to nintendolife they snagged the pic before it was locked down) cracked open a electrocardiogram measurement instrument and found... a GBA? It’s theorized: “perhaps earlier revisions of the unit had different screens, and once the supply chain dried up MiE was forced to source the next best thing?”
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vice-s-assistant sez: "OK Guys, I’m ready to hack."
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According to bunney: "i was working at a convention arcade this weekend and some guy cosplaying ryu was playing street fighter with a blunt in his mouth"...
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Can anyone tell what's being played here? At the very least, it's a nice shot (via rekall)...
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Much like Arcade Crusade, I have no idea what’s going on, and I agree that whatever it is, it looks intense...
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If you’ve ever wanted an artist’s rendering of the Raspberry Pi, then look no further than the work of retronator…
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rasec-wizzlbang states: “those square cross sections of the human skin layers you always see in biology books but as like, a minecraft block”…
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Courtesy of Arcade Crusade once again comes a very tender moment…
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Is it just me or does this promo image for Food Fight sure does look like a Norman Rockwell painting? As seen on thedoteaters...
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Here we have a flyer for a really old SNK arcade game (we’re talking really old; almost a decade before the Neo Geo was a thing) that looks like it was made with today’s sensibilities, doesn’t it?
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Also via obscurevideogames is a moment of pathos from Hacchake Ayayo-san 4 - Sexy Olympics - Ayayo’s Live Affection. It’s… pretty obscure alright…
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Yup, that's Hieronymus Bosch-styled Tetris all right (via freeindiega.me)...
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crashcarnival presents: "true facts of the Ice Age"...
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Hey, it’s the Ninja Turtles playing Pong (via rewind01)…
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Behold, Fighters Megamix version 2017 (via lonelyfrontier)…
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Yup, that is definitely a Chu Chu Rocket skirt  (via radicalhelmet)...
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For those who have ever wondered what their Sonic character’s political leanings are, in relation to the rest of the crew (and can’t be bothered to sift through DeviantArt; via erratticusfinch)…
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Face to face (via futureisfailed)…
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It’s been out for a while, though it’s not too late to pick up this Xenogears tribute zine, right?
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Just a friendly reminder of how bat-sh*t insane Sin & Punishment is (via n64thstreet)...
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Zimmerit.moe has everything you need to know about a game by Square involving mecha that you’ve probably never heard of. And no, am not talking about Thexder; it’s even more obscure than that (am talking about Cruise Chaser Blassty BTW/FYI)...
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Meanwhile, Michael “Kayin” O’Reilly discusses the “Barrel Distortion” look that emulators use to recreate the look of playing something on a CRT display and why it’s total crap…
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And… that’s  it! You’ve made it to the end! Enjoy a cool, refreshing drink with Pac-Man (on the behalf of arcade-crusade)...
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Don’t forget: Attract Mode is now on Medium! There you can subscribe to keep up to date, as well as enjoy some “best of” content you might have missed the first time around, plus be spared of the technical issues that’s starting to overtake Tumblr.
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