#its ok i think i'll write something else before friday

[tennessoui]

look............it was gonna be time and tide and i PROMISE i started working on that too this weekend, but somehow.....they wanted therapy

[beann-e]

um wow , idk what to say i’m a bit flustered but i hope i say it right. I was only gone for a couple of days and this is what I come back to. 😮 Tysm guys I love you all thank you for taking the time out of your scrolls to even follow me >:’) So, I decided to follow through on my haikyu x police force idea and here it is a sneak peek! I hope you enjoy !

May 1 , 2021

-recording take one

" I am under oath to tell you that everything being said here today will be used to further the investigation against yourself. That being said If you choose to answer a question or provide a statement I will have no choice but to write it down to be processed and turned into someone of higher authority than me is that clear "

" i'd say that's a bit — well stupid to me saying yes when your the highest fish on the food chain no? "

" what else can I say except lucky you that everything you say won't be passed around and relayed much less having your words twisted by those listening "

" cute "

" i'd say same goes to you if you weren't chained up in front of me right now — I might've just asked you out on a date "

" i'm free friday at 10 — though it's in the morning so I pose the question— Would you like to sneak me from my court case baby I promise i’ll make it up to you "

" mm i'll think about it seeing as though i'm the one escorting you to your new cell anyways we might just have to have a uh a talk inside hmm"

" what no balls ? "

" sadly none —or at least physically seeing as though i'm a woman "

" I never would've guessed if it wasn't for the way that suit hugs your curves — your pretty full out huh you must be fun "

" i've gotten that before though people tend to say i’m a bit more fun elsewhere "

" aw you wound me you didn’t tell me I had competition babe “

" of course not your first in line in my eyes, it sucks that the ring on my finger says differently though "

" isn't that sweet I might just have to take you up on your offer "

" oh? didn't think you'd be so excited ,much less interested on being the first one on my list to be put in jail but, I guess i'll try my best to speed your trial up for you if that's what you want "

The rooms silence was heavy as the camera panned the room. Your fingers silently being clawed into the table as it drained all your anger from you.

Your shoe tapping against the floor with a slight grimace appearing on your face when you heard the buttons on the camera in front of you being pressed.

" what no slick comment ? " A heartfelt laugh moved to fill the once silent room as you watched small hands wrap around the camera and fix it to where it showed nothing but your upset face—fingertips slamming down one by one on the table

" don't you have a fucking job to do glasses "

" aw what happened no more flirty y/n ? "

"your an asshole— I don’t know why I expected much in the first place seeing as though you were trained under him "

" such a foul mouth — you do know this is going on your transcripts right ? " the eyes in front of you narrowing on you the voice only coming out in mock care for your situation " you wouldn't want the jury — much less the judge reading this when their deciding your sentence right ? "

Your fingers glided over the table and into a fist in front of you as your head went to look down at the table

" you've grown submissive so fast "

" I find it hard to believe you don't like that kind of thing fucking pervert "

" aw you wound me — but if I had to supply you with an answer to your question— I can imagine your dying to know since you've been flirting with a married woman this whole time "

" married? "

" I know your observant y/n you have to be " the next words making you breathe heavily " I mean the way you noticed your s/o was cheating before they could even notice themselves is just wow"

The click of the door being heard as a deep voice made its way in the room " Kiyoko your not allowed in here "

" I have just as much right to be in here as anyone else — "

" but I could’ve sworn I just said you don't — so again why the hell are you in here ? "

The room turning cold with the woman in front of you straightening herself up not wanting to go back and forth with the male in front of her but, at the same time not wanting to come across as small, being seen as a woman down here was hard much less having your own husband be relatively close to the one in charge " I came down here to test out inmate 4890 psyche"

" did anyone give you that kind of permission? that kind of clearance ? to even get down here in the first place ? "

" I mean their hidden underground so i'd say their the main event down here "

" you can't just come down here to see it whenever you see fit "

" but I was interested in the way it's mind works "

" what the hell am I an attraction at sea world? "

" your whatever the fuck I want you to be " your once strong eyes were met with brown ones that held your gaze almost testing you— daring you.

You seeing the hate swirl with annoyance meeting to radiate off of him. His face made up in a snarl as he finally turned his whole body to you.

Arms crossed across his chest eyes now lazily focused on you causing a chill to move through your spine. Youd never wanted to grow submissive to anyone and you never had not in all your years of living so why were you now?

Kiyokos eyes moving from between you to the male in front of her and back. Her body already telling you she knew something was off by the way you'd just been playful with her until you felt the energy shift by someone elses approach showing how easily your personality could changed.

Something was off and she was interested

" if necessary I can always stay and play mediato— "

" your ok " he smiled widely " we're fine together — down here "

your body shifted in the seat wrists being pulled back and down to the table by the chain in front of you when you heard his claim.

" y/n ' s good with that — their fine ive known them a long time I can speak for them — we’ve done this before countless times this isn't their first crime maybe one of this stature yes but "

" mhmm " the woman in front of you shook her head lightly before leaving the room your heart clenching tightly when you heard the door click closed

" I just wanna do my job and then i'll get out ok y/n " the fake sympathy in his voice shining through as he put down his clipboard on the table before standing behind the chair at the table across from you

" god " his voice was heavy as he spoke " it's like you get hotter and hotter everytime we see each other " his body moving around the small rectangular table " it's such a shame "

Your body tensing when you felt him nearing you only to keep going past you.

Body letting out a breath you didn't even know you were holding only to restore another one when you heard the click of the camera turning off and powering down.

Your eyes darting around the room to watch him out of the corner of them reaching up to turn off the corner camera that showed the police force what was happening in the room

Not that they would care seeing as though he was chief he could do anything he wanted to you and not have to tell anyone in his unit. It didn't help that you were a world renowned criminal now you'd fully fucked this up for yourself

" crazy how your fucked yourself over " his words only confirming the thought in your head " you were only into petty crimes before so I could barely get my hands on you i'd always have to pass you over to everyone else because no one of my status ever needed to intervene — though I would've loved to— just to feel the way your face would drop anytime I entered the room or to even feel the shift in your attitude like I felt earlier— holy fuck is that powerful and now look at you "

He laughed at your body that sat slumped in your chair trying to cover your face with the cuffs on the table " pathetically sitting in a room bawling your eyes out in front of me "

His words only feeling closer now as his breath hit your ear.

Heat from his mouth moving to your neck instantly causing you to scoot away only for him to grab the back of your neck " have you no respect for yourself "

You gritted your teeth together at his hold on you " I said have you no respect for yourself "

You bit at your lip trying to decide what to say you always wanted to spit a comeback at the male but right now was definitely not the time with his heavy hand on your neck moving slowly into your hair to grip tighter

"ah every single time we do this — it's almost even more pathetic than the droplets I keep seeing falling and landing on my perfect fucking table that I bought with company’s money— fuck their gonna cut my paycheck "

His hand tightening as he spoke again " one more time asshole " his voice held all the rudeness to it " have you no respect for yourself "

" y-"

The action was quick as he slammed your head hard into the table in front of you. your vision blurring before he sighed blood dripping from your forehead and leaking out of your nose onto your lips as it trembled slightly

" ugh I hate when this happens with you —- you always bleed so fucking easily " he huffed " I ask you something you answer learn something about respect for once in your life and maybe you'll take better care of yourself "

He scoffed " your so fucking pretty and yet you do things like this — you slut yourself out in my business and then turn around and get arrested god your such a fucking ditz "

your head being brought to meet the table once again as you whimpered tears mixing with your blood brain muddied and shut down by his actions

" i'm so tired — so so tired of sweeping everything you do under the rug— I mean you act like I can’t fucking see you y/n i run the whole fucking thing I don’t— I don’t understand you your just fucking stupid so so so stupid it just blinds me and throws me for a loop sometimes "

His voice was low almost as if he only wanted you to feel the weight of his words " and then you never even say fucking sorry " he pushed your head down again " i'm the fucking cleanup crew ,, the shitty bodyguard when you drag yourself in some mess ,, the contact list when you need a plug ,, the boss when you need a job i'm fucking tired y/n "

" I know I know and i'm— im so sorry really please i'm sorry "

you braced yourself for another push as he backed away the heavy hand leaving your neck as he peered down at your head that was still hovering over the table

" what the fuck do you want another bash ?What are you doing "

" no — no please no”

" then bring your head up — god you seriously take your role on as the youngest dont you " he sighed as he moved his hands to pinch at the bridge of his nose. Your eyes darting to the camera kiyoko left and feeling hope enter your body thinking of how she would see the whole scene that’s played out with the male in front of you

" your not staying here "

" what—what "

" you can't — I dont want you here— i’m outta this your not my responsibility anymore your 19 now so I don’t know what to say except get it to fucking gether — you stay here your never gonna go to jail you'd just stay in a confined room for moths — fuck i’m always getting dragged in this shit "

" how — what do I do — what am I gonna do "

" the hell do you mean ? what am I gonna do ? as if the shits not obvious your gonna do fucking nothing while everyone else does all the work for you again "

your voice grew quiet as he scoffed " that's what I thought god — one day i'm gonna get fired "

your eyes darted to the camera and back down " for what exactly "

his eyebrows creased as he stared at you eyes moving all around your face before he spoke ignoring your question " you got yourself in some real bad shit this time y/n "

" but it wasn't even my fau— "

" you don't say shit — you know it wasn't suppose to go down like that and when one goes down we go down together you swore it— that’s how you got our trust don’t fuck yourself over again or you’ll be down in hell by yourself "

" like what ? "

" don't fuck with me y/n "

he moved to grab his clipboard your body lifting when he walked off and forgot about the camera only to drop the clipboard to the floor with a loud clang and start using his shoe to tear the papers apart

" wh-what are you doing " your voice came out soft as your eyebrows creased

His body moving over to the table and throwing the camera youd just put all your hope into someone seeing what you went through being thrown to the ground and stepped on harshly with the heel of his shoes.

Though it wasn't broken broken it was unsalvageable and couldn't be fixed your eyes going wide unable to process anything before he walked to the door and opened it his hand coming up to cup around his mouth

" THEIR ATTACKING " he screamed your body trembling at the way the table shook along with it " calling all units anyone in the vicinity the inmate I am locked up with is having a tantrum of some kind and I do not think I can handle it alone "

Your heart broke as you watched the male in front of you turn back to look at you holding nothing but hate in his eyes " I ask that you help me remove the inmate and get them out of our station immediately "

Several people running in cleaning up the scene and taking pictures before someone uncuffed you and dragged you towards the tall male by the door.

" Chief where do you want em "

" I want em on the next bus to tokyo "

Your head swirling " wh— "

" everyone exit while I talk to the inmate quickly alerting them of their next adventure " everyone moving silently to follow his demands his eyes going directly to yours as everyone raced down the hallway and away from you two

" your going to tokyo — I can't fucking do this — "

" but what would I do there's no one "

" go see bokutou — at this point you've pissed me off I can't do much else for you just — go ask for a new life really " his voice came out in a short laugh at his ending words

" boku— "

" y/n I said i'm pissed off and done with you — you keep interfering with my job and honestly this murder charge was the last strike for me— your of age now I can’t get you outta this shit— so if you could just get a new identity and get the hell away from me id seriously appreciate it "

" daichi I "

" you don't say anything "

" your my — your my brother we’re suppose to be there for each other and you "

" i'm not your anything as of right now you prick " his voice was sharp and held meaning as he snapped at uou " not your brother — your friend — your back up call when you get into weird shit I — I wanted to be a nice police officer and move my way up to chief I wanted to have kids a — a family y/n " he scoffdd " not a shitty sibling who keeps using my job against me and has me pulling strings that shouldn't even exists "

" but "

" you see how I keep cutting you off it's because I don't want to hear you y/n — you annoy the fuck out of me so seriously " he moved his shoulder to glide through the doorframe and past you "just go do what you criminal assholes do and get a new identity and the fuck away from me as soon as possible I want nothing to do with you "

" sooooo thats how you ended up with me " the air in the new room shifted from confusing to happiness as the dual colored male in front of you screamed " THATS AWESOME YOU HAVE SUCH A BADASS BACK STORY "

He jumped up and covered his face dramatically before he spoke "twas a dark night when y/n changed their ways and gave birth to a criminal — a murdering criminal who came to the one and the only — bokuto koutaro the amazingily cool , strong , funny , king of connections — thus creating a beautiful friendship and a dark and powerful villian story "

He smiled at your beat and battered face youd received from your brother a day ago before he spoke again his hair drooping slightly " too much ? "

[andieperrie18]

My Girlfriend Is A Goddess ( Peter Parker X Reader.

Hey guys! I told ya I'll make it to all of ya! So warning this can be a little fluffy. Onward!

Ohh and I rekemnd (recommend ) you guys listen to Tove Styrke's Say My Name. It inspired be to Write the adorable piece. Its an adorable song.

Peter sat by the couch at the Avengers tower at one Friday. Tony had invited to stay there for the Welcome Back from one particular Avenger he didn't know about. Everyone was busy. Natasha and Clint went grocery shopping, Tony and Bruce were down at the lab, Steve, Bucky and Falcon were out shopping which was quite unusual. Thor was with Natasha and Clint. And Wanda and Vision were experimenting on some new dishes.

The Welcome Party was manually prepare by Tony and the other Avengers which was new to Peter.

" Ugh, I'm bored." he said as he dropped on the pillows. He ignored the thoughts about the avengers and turned his thought to somewhere else. He pulled out his phone and dialled a particular number.

" Calling SpidermanGF😘😍. . . . " the screened flashed this words as Peter smiled as he placed his phone on his ear, waiting for the response.

' ring ring, ring ring, ring rin- '

" This number is currently not available to Spider man. Please try your call later. . "

Peter laughed before he pouted.

" That's rude Y/n. Imma cry. " he pouted and faked a sobbed as the said girl laughed at the other line. Peter's restlessness and boredom faded when he heard his girlfriend boys. He wanted to take her with him but Y/n was going to a family reunion somewhere so she was left in Queens.

Peter chatted with her as the time passes telling her about how the avengers were busy about the party.

" My Dear Peter my love, don't be sad now. Its not gonna take you a month there. Trust me, you'll be in my arms soon before you know it. " Y/n said at the other line, trying to comfort Peter's homesickness as possible. Peter had gotten used at Y/n 's unusual language. She always speak in an old and formal ways at sometimes. But he liked it at times. He found it really sweet.

" Do you still remember how we met at Mythology class? You defended me on how Persephone isn't really abducted by Hades." he said as the memory flashed in his mind.

Peter met her at Midtown at one afternoon in Mythology class. The topic that was discussed in class was about Hades' Bio and they came across about how Hades himself abducted Demeter's daughter.

He was defending the statedment that Persephone wasn't abducted from one of Flash's friend. He was being cornered and was losing the debate.

" Persephone is not abducted. She came to Hades in her own free will. " a voice bombarded the whole room. The flash's friends turn to you and scoffed as Peter just looked at the girl.

She stood with a strong and straight composure as she held a book.

" If you read Famous Rick Riordan's The Gods Love Facts (a/n: theres no such book! Just made it up if you guys are Percy Jackson fan and read uncle Rick's books ). He had conducted his research in Greece as he studied their history in scrolls and tablets.

The tablet labelled ' The Myth of the Winter and Spring '. It was said that Persephone herself can't handle her mother's overprotectiveness.The description of Persephone is that she is adventurous and daring. One faithful day, she decided to runaway for a couple of days to explore but she met Hades on her way. The god had been stalking the nymph for a long time now and dreamed her to be as his queen. "

The whole class had their attention, all were intrigued by the real story of the Goddess of the Underworld that even your prof was focused on you. Peter multitasked. He would admire your features as he listened to you.

" Persephone's disappearance caused Demeter to her Wrath to mankind, cursing an eternal winter to the vast lands. Zeus had pursuade Hades to return the nymph to her mother. Even though the god didn't want it, he made her leave.

Persephone had fallen for the king. Hades is the eldest of his three brothers. He let Zeus trick him to rule the underworld. He did what a normal elder sibling would do to its sibling. Persophone wanted to stay with him so badly that she ate as many as six seeds of the pomegrenate. It is said that the food that grow in the Underworld are cursed and once you eat one. You'll be imprisoned there forever. Persephone told Zeus what she did.

There was nothing the gods can do. Zeus decided that Persephone will spend six months to both. Demeter had no choice. Every time of the year when the nymph leaves her mother side to join her lover. Demeter would cast six months of winter, no labour for six months. Now if you think she is abducted and forced to marry Hades. You are dead wrong. Up until this Day, Persephone ruled the Underworld. She bares the Key to the Elysian Field. The Definition of Heaven in Greek Mythology. She opens the gates to those who deems worthy to live an eternal and peaceful life. " she finished. A moment of silence as the whole class applauded you and your teacher smiled and gave you praises.

Peter smiled at her at the same time her gaze landing on him. She sent a smile back and a spark of light popped in Peter's chest. The next thing he knew the very novel that Y/n read was in his bag with a note that said.

" Y/n

***-***-**** "

" I gotta go. Don't worry love. You'll be home in my arms soon. Enjoy the moment with the Avengers beside who knows what will happen when you meet the mysterious avenger." she said as Peter sighed and agreed and said his I Love Yous before ending the call.

The next day, everything was ready.

" Everyone! She's on the elevator now!" Natasha called out as Peter watched everyone scrambled to the elevator. Him being one of the people scrambling his way to the elevator, thanks to her gf that he felt curiousity run in him to meet the mystery avenger.

They all froze when the elevator made ding.

You stood in the elevator in excitement and nervousness. Peter don't know your the mystery Avenger. You decided that this was the perfect time to tell him that you are the sister of a god.

The elevator ding as you breath and smiled. You did miss everyone.

The door open to reveal everyone huddle up infront of the elevator. You giggled and walked out of the elevator.

" Greetings Earthlings!!! " you said in a joking way.

" Y/n! " they all called and ran to embrace you.

" Sister!! " the familiar call of you brother echoed through your ears. Thor made his way to you in open arms and caught you in tight embrace.

" He missed you alot. " Steve said as he smiled at you.

" Yeah, I missed my darling brother too. "

" We all did! " Wanda said as she joined the hug.

" BROTHER?! " A voice echoed through the room. Everyone looked at the direction of it. Your gaze met the familiar sparkling brown eyes.

" Oh Peter, this Y/n. She is Thor's elder sister. Say Hi." Tony said as he slinged an arm on Peter's shoulder.

" Hello Love. " you muttered out with a awkward laugh. Everyone turned to you in wide eyes. Peter couldn't believe it. He was just calling you yesterday and now you were infront of him. He ran to you locking you in his warm embrace that you didn't even think for a moment and hugged him back.

" Ok?. . . You two know each other? " Clint asked.

" Your here! And your an Avenger!? Why didn't you tell me? I'm sad! " he pouted and broke away from the hug his arms still around you. " Sorry love. I'm here now aren't I? I was scared that you would be scared of me and leave me because I'm immortal. " you said as you look down in sadness.

Peter hated seeing you sad.

" Oh Y/n. I don't care if your immortal. I loved you for you. And I will never stop. " he said as he lifted your chin up. ( A/n: Your shorter than him. Just imagine it. )You felt so much better. You looked at him with love and pulled him in a quick kiss. Peter smiled as he missed the feeling of your lips on his.

" Your Thor's sister?! So what is you power? " he asked you as he broke away from the kiss. " I'm the Goddess of Beauty and Wisdom, Love." you cooed. He smiled and rested his forehead on yours, " Hmm, cool. " he praised.

" Hey! Were still here! " Tony called breaking the moment as the couple turned to the Group.

You both stood straight but you held Peter's hand.

" Everyone, I want to tell you something. Peter is my boyfriend. And I am dating Spider man. " you confessed as you looked at Peter who was looking down in blushing mess which was adorable.

The day went on as the Avengers rained you and Peter Questions about your relationship.

So whatcha guys think?!

I posted this in my imagine book. You guys can check it out on wattpad. Hope ya guys liked it!!

[skillfulwolfworld]

Pairing: Jeon Jungkook | reader

Summary: Selene is a young 21-year-old who has done the impossible to be a young top producer, top dancer, and singer. Trying to make a name for herself was always hard, especially when she doesn't want handouts from her father is who is a big-time producer too. One day her father calls saying he needs help with a company called Big Hits he just signed on with. What will happen?

Rated: 18+ as for language, future smut and etc.

Author's Note: Welcome be patient with me as I have all this in my head and trying to put it down on here. All are fictional and times will not be accurate. This will be a series hopefully you like it. Thanks

Chapter: 1

You think being 21 I be out partying living with no care in the world and off of my parent's money. But nope here I am sitting in a boring meeting about what class we each need to teach later this week and what dance moves to learn.

"Do you think he ever gets tired of his own voice at all?" Breaking my thoughts as Ash whispers in my ear scooching closer to me. Stifling a laugh I look towards Josh who loves to keep any meeting going for as long as he can.

"Now that I doubt, you know he loves being center of attention. I mean look he always gets a big head when he does them. Good thing I already know the schedule and plans." Still looking ahead towards Josh as I whisper back. Ash sighs while mumbling under her breath as she fixes her blonde hair in a messy bun.

After another thirty minutes, Josh finally lets everyone go for the day. You would think he wouldn't ramble on after everyone practices but nope. Gathering my duffle bag pulling my phone out, waiting for Ash as she talks to a new guy. Pulling my bag on my shoulder leaning against the wall. Feeling my phone vibrate I see my Dads name come across the screen.

"Hey, Dad. Isn't it early where you are, you're okay?" Signaling to Ash I'll be outside in my car.

"Can't I just call my favorite child and see how she is? It's only 6am here." Hearing his deep voice chuckle. Shaking my head I unlock my 2015 black Ford Escape hoping in.

"I am your only child Dad." Kneading my eyebrows together.

"I am messing baby. But you know the early bird gets the worm. Got to keep up with all you younger people. But the reason I called I have a business opportunity for you." Frowning slightly and rolling my eyes from his words.

"Dad you know I don't do your handouts." I can already picture him rolling his eyes like I did.

"Selene Marie this is not a handout, I need your help. You are more into the younger generation and your generation than I am. You have built your name and career without my help. You are an amazing producer." He used his business voice meaning this was serious. Rubbing my hand across my face I stayed quiet processing everything.

"I don't want to pressure you, so give my answer by the end of the day." Still in his business tone. Seeing Ash finally come out and slowly head towards my car.

"Ok, I'll talk to later Dad." Hanging up turning the ringtone up on my black iPhone. I lean my head back closing my eyes, feeling Ash open the door, and jump in the vehicle.

"Oh no, you good?" Keeping my eyes closed I shake my head no. Ash squeezes my shoulder as I take a deep breath.

"Again tell me why I followed my dad's footsteps?" Opening my eye as I turn my head towards her.

"Hmm. From growing up with you, you said was cause you love music and seen struggling artists get help from your Dad taking chances on. You always wanted to be the good guy well girl in the industry just like him." Putting her finger to her lip as she thought out loud. Smiling I push her for being cheesy.

"Okay no more saying cute things like that. But you're right, but it's hard when around every corner my Dad wants to help me. I mean it took two years to get here for people to see me for my work and not my Dad. He called wanting my help on this company." Laying my head on the steering wheel closing my eyes.

'Smack'

Feeling a sting on the back of my head, sitting up I glare at Ash. Who is just glaring back.

"I swear I want to strangle you a lot, Selene." Crossing her arms. "You are one of the top producers in America, so of course your Dad would call you. Not for you being his daughter. You are just being well not smart as it's your dad calling you, not someone else." She huffed shaking her head. As everything became quiet my mind couldn't stop running. Did he really call me for my reputation and I know more about it?

"I hate you, Ash." Smiling as I look towards her. "I thought I was supposed to be the sensible one." Grabbing my keys as I start the vehicle and began buckling up.

"We grew up so it always switches, but you gonna do the job?" She buckles as I pull out of the parking lot.

"I might still have to set ground rules and see what the job is." Quickly look towards her I look forward again as I drive towards our house. She gives a quick nod as she starts playing on her bright pink phone.

Driving can always make or break your mind. Either you are a person who overthinks or clears your mind. You can say I overthink when I drive depending on the problem. After a forty-five minute drive, we make it home to our four-bedroom house we got just a few years ago.

"You want to order out tonight or order out?" Ash laughs as she hops out of the vehicle.

"We can order out I guess, just order whatever I got to call my Dad back." Grabbing my stuff shutting the door and lock the vehicle up. Heading inside behind Ash I head towards the room. Closing my door as I walk to my bed just falling face-first into my black covered pillows groaning. Maybe Ash is right, am I just being difficult as it's my Father who asked for help? I slowly turn on my back as I began to sit upon the bed, taking my hair out of the messy bun its been in since 11 am this morning. Looking towards my window I see it's pitch black outside but still a small breeze that pushes through my open window. Hearing crickets start chirping as I slowly get up and walk towards the window, pulling the curtain open more. Looking down at my purple Fitbit I see it's already 10:56 pm, sighing I walk to my bed in search of my phone.

Seeing the black corner sticking out from underneath the pile of pillows I have, I unlock it going to recent calls. Hovering over my Dad's name as I debated pressing the green call button. Internally what seems like forever I hovered over the green button I finally lightly pressed down, also turning the speakerphone on. Ever get that feeling like your heart is about to explode as you hear those long rings, yeah I feel like that right now. Starting at the phone like that will help my father pick up the phone. After a few more rings it goes to voicemail sighing I end the call.

'knocking'

Walking to my door I pull it open saying "I called Ash he didn't pick up." Looking at her as expecting her to be here for what I decided and said to my Dad. But instead greeted with the smell of Domino's pizza and her struggling to hold on a bottle of our favorite wine Pinot Noir and glasses.

"A little bit of help." She groans as I laughing grabbing the wine and glasses. If anyone knew her they understand she is not the best at being coordinated even when she walks. So her making it to my bedroom from the kitchen with everything was shocking.

"How many times did you drop something?" Settings my phone on the dresser then grabbing the wine and glasses putting them down next. Ash looks at me as she sets the pizza and napkins on the bed looking offended as she put her hands on her hips. Seeing she took a shower and changed into simple pink shorts and a big white t-shirt that was two times her sizes, with her blonde hair was in a side braid.

"I have you know I did not drop anything, as much difficulty as that wine is open." Glaring then turned around to open the pizza box as she pulled out a piece taking a huge bite out of it while sitting on the bed. Smiling I began to pour us some wine. "So he didn't answer?" Mouth full of food wiping her hands.

"Can you not speak with your mouth full of food, but no he didn't. It is only 11:23 am in South Korea. Please don't get any food on my bed this time." Checking the clock hanging on my wall as I take a sip of wine. Seeing in the corner of my eye as she sticks her tongue out towards me.

'Ring Ring'

Picking up the phone as I hit the green button and hitting the speaker before I greeted him.

"Hey, Dad." Walking over to the bed and sitting down, setting the phone in-between Ash and I.

"Sorry, I was in a meeting with everyone here and couldn't walk away." Hearing people talking in the background.

"Understandable, so about the job. What is it you need from me and for how long?" Turning putting my drink down I grab my notepad and pen for my nightstand ready to write important information down. Even though I know it will be in the contract if I said yes.

"Of course. I have the contract here if you sign. It's Big Hit boy band group that is needing help with just a dance instructor and help with some songs made. Nothing too over the top as I've helped them with a good direction to go in. You will be signed for 6 months. Also, you are decent with your Korean language?" Hearing papers shuffle in the background as he fiddles looking to make sure he covered everything.

"Yes, I am decent with the language. Everything sounds good. I will have to make sure I am covered here but I don't see why not to come there to help. But I don't want you hovering me." Ash squeals lightly clapping her hands. Lightly smiling at her as I write down everything hearing my father laugh from hearing Ash.

"Of course, I'll set your travel time to leave Thursday night. So Friday afternoon when you get in we can sign the contract and I'll show you around the building on the weekend so you can relax afterward." His voice finally losing his business tone going into his father's tone.

"Sounds good, give me a good day and a half to send emails to everyone and pack. Just send me the details, also you know Ash is my helper when it comes to dancing. I'll pay for her as I need her help, can you just get two tickets?" I look towards Ash as she beams from her spot. Hearing a few chuckles from the phone.

"Of course. I will see you both in two days. I'll send everything to your email. If any problems let me know. I have to go to another meeting. Love you." He sighs as I hear more people come closer to him.

"Ok, will do. Love you too." Hanging up the phone, I set my notepad and pen on the nightstand and grab my wine to take a big drink. Glancing at Ash, seeing her smile big as she can.

"So I'm guessing you are happy to come help?" I say when I finish my wine and set the empty glass down.

"Well duh I mean we get to go across the world and get paid for it.!" She jumps up and starts dancing.

"You realize we have to work right and won't have much time to relax." Giving her a serious look as she finally settles down. Nodding while her face turns serious.

"Yeah yeah I understand. But still, it's gonna be a new experience. I don't think I will be much help in the talking department though." Looking straight at me, putting a hand on her shoulder.

"I didn't need you for the language you are there for your dancing and if anything I am sure if I'm not around someone will translate for you." Smiling I get up from my bed stretching and finally grabbing a piece of pizza. Moaning as I take a bite and savory the taste as it hits my tongue.

"Do you have to make that type of noise when you eat. Ugh, I'm leaving got to make sure I have everything for the trip." She gathers up the pizza box, wine, and her glass as she slowly walks out closing the door behind her as she tries hard not to drop anything. Then I hear her yell "Take a damn shower you smell like sweat!"

Laughing I finish my pizza, grabbing my laptop from the desk bringing it to the bed as I type in the password I looking at the clock on there then groan. Midnight great this is gonna take forever to send everyone an email. But knowing I only have right now to send this is the best time to now. Huffing I began to send the dance studio and my clients explaining I took on another client and will be away out of state for about 6 months. That if any problems arise they could email me and we can work out the problem when it was a good time for them and me. Writing a few encouraging words I sent the emails.

Rubbing my eyes I see the clock read 1:56 am, logging out I get up from my comfy spot. Setting my laptop down I start to gather everything for my shower finally. Settling on a dark purple tank top with a black sports bra and gray shorts, walking into my bathroom I turned on the turned. Washing away all the tension from practice and stress from today's events. Washing and conditioning my hair I began scrubbing my skin with lavender body wash, what seemed like a 10-minute shower was really a 45 minute one. Stepping out I started my night routine with face washing and brushing my teeth.

Opening the bathroom door you see the steam roll out, walking slowly back to my king bed as I sit on the edge French braiding my hair. My body losing energy after the relaxing shower I climb under the thick cover. Checking my phone one last night I see an email my father sent about the travel details. Deciding ill read it tomorrow I slowly drift off into a deep sleep. The only noise to be heard was from the crickets outside in the dark.

[footprinting]

Tarawera 2020 ✨

"So Emma, how does it feel to have so many people you care about running this weekend?".

In an immensely thoughtful few seconds, Nico zoomed right into the heart of everything.

We were in Rotorua to run Tarawera. Friday had been filled with festivities. Saturday was to be the big one. We had a rare few minutes chilling at our shared house of dear friends, in between one activity to another.

It had been a whirlwind of a week. A week previously I had hopped on a plane to see my sister in Perth - and more specifically, her with her newborn wee girl. Winnie was 11 weeks when I visited. She's perfect. We had precious days together just being, and besotted by this tiny niece. After four days: back to Wellington. Sleep. Drive up to Napier. My brother had arranged for all of us to see Elton John at the Mission, in particular for my Mum. Spectacular. It was a colourful rainbow of joyfulness and festivities - no black t-shirts to be seen - and we immersed ourselves in the warmth and music and drank it all in from the grassy field. Then a through the night drive from Napier to Rotorua, arriving at 2am. Sleep. Up again. The weekend was ready to begin. A few of us headed down to the expo and squeals of enthusiasm welcomed people from far afield, with a particular highlight being Marieve from Canada. We leapt and hugged and exclaimed that this could barely be real. It was a feeling that was to continue. Family had shone bright that week. Treasured friends radiated that same meaningful brightness.

Its been three weeks since that weekend. I keep trying to write a race report. When I think of the weekend the numbers and details fade away. It's the feels that stay with me. Love. So much love. Highs. The highs that were stratospheric. Lows. When I hear someone had to quit from the event, or when my heart falls to my feet with worry for someone else who's not doing well. Thankfulness. For all the helpers. Bewilderment. At learning to accept help. And then: more love.

No pain. No pride. No rah rah rah I'm amazing. I read a book about ultra running this week. It missed a point. It was about pushing and striving and being hard. But nothing of what it means to build a family of people who gravitate toward these same meaningful journeys we go on. And that's the real story I want to tell. Nor is the photo of a medal or a jump or a selfie. It's of a torn up hand, raw; holding two gifted daisies in wonderment from two cheering kids.

(Here's the disclaimer that you're going to need a coffee, an Ultra IPA, or a big swig of electrolyte to last the distance on this read. Settle in!)

Friday was magic. Zooming around the race check in and expo and seminars and friends was like a trail running Disneyland. I could feel myself getting nervous for Chris and for Rachel, both in for the big dance of 💯 with me. Marieve called BS on my thinking: "Hey! You're racing tomorrow! Look out for you too!". She settled my mind for the better. Strong friends know to look out for strong friends. We found quiet oases of time. We had prepared a lot back in Wellington, and this helped gift us spare hours and relaxing. Bed. Early. Reasonable sleep -- never excellent the night before -- and we woke before the 3.50am alarm.

Saturday started with a series of familiar steps. Shower. Coffee. Bircher muesli. Whispered conversation. Our bags for the day re-checked. Out the door we went. In the dark we walked the fifteen minutes to our 5am bus. The drive reminded us the scale of the journey ahead of us. Winding roads took over an hour to the start line. It rained. We were grateful for this: not too hot, and the first rain for this scorched town since Christmas. The start line was a colourful blur of people, many focused on toilet logistics. We assembled on the start line. We were ready. We look into each others eyes, Chris especially, and with Rachel, we grasp each other with meaningful words. We set off.

I was calm. It was surreal, being back in this field, where I had been three times previously. Always a finish line to amazing days. This time was the beginning. We wound ourselves around fields and the trail. Two figureheads were clapping and cheering on the edge of a high up field: Paul, the race founder / beautiful human and Kerry, previous winner / coach extraordinarre / comedian and these guys are two of the biggest hearts around. Both have been gateway drugs for us into trail running and I admire them immensely. "Hey Paul! Hey Kerry!" I yahooed up at them. They both returned with a HEY! EMMA! and Kerry yells "Right folks, run with her today, she's the cheeriest runner around!". On we weave in this dreamlike but focussed state. They are new trails we're running when we get past the fields. Beautiful. I see great whirlpools of deep water alongside the weaving track. It's going to be warm today but we're still comfortable. We get into the foresty road after 5 or so kilometres. I'm excited about this section. My legs start moving more easily, eager to settle in to some happy miles.

And then. Kilometre 9 or 10. On a piece of gravel barely the size of a fingernail. I'm flying. I go down. I'm up and running again before I dust myself off. The guys around me got a fright, as much as I did. "I'm getting the fall out of the way for today!" I jest. Adrenaline keeps me going. It stings. My sunglasses are done for, the front of my clothes dusted up. I wash myself off a bit at the next aid station. This is a return of a shakiness that's bugged me since the end of last year, a previous fall on a trail. It's ok. I recalibrate. I'm feeling ok and I know I'll be fine, alongside the need to be careful.

Kilometres 10 through 35 tick along happily. It's flowing and beautiful. Never boring. The light is already rising over the trees. My phone is purposefully tucked deep inside my bag. I absorb it all instead. The flowy paths. The cheer and vibrancy of the aid stations. The banter. People ask me sometimes what I do not to get bored when I run. So many hours! They say. But this was all encompassing. Connected. I dove into conversations in my mind that I needed to have, and occasional ones with trail friends.

At kilometre 35, Tarawera Falls, it gets a bit more technical, and again going through Tarawera Outlet. It is magestic at the Falls. Those deep, dark whirlpools. I run past one amazing vista after another. At the fifth or sixth jaw dropping viewpoint I relent. It's time to get a picture. The trail running fairies will give me demerit points if I don't capture this magic. And so I do. On we go. Each of these aid stations is such a lift. People! Colour! A hive of activity and people looking deep into your eyes offering help.

Through Tarawera Falls to Humphries Bay to Lake Okataina, kilometres 35 to 58, is the most technical of the day. Gorgeous, tricky, playful trail. I'm slower than usual here. I charge my watch during this section; biffing it into my bag in it's entirety with the charger. I hear it chirrup with each kilometre. But I don't need to see the pace. People are slowing, tired, grumbly sometimes. One person behind me audibly swears every time she hits a tree root. Which is very often. Loudly. Distracting. I zoom on a bit to get ahead. I'm ticking along and managing energy all ok. I realise here that my time goals have galloped on. I won't hit the number I had in mind. And that's ok. I make peace with it. The day is more important. Later I reflect on this: was I not hungry enough? How much more could I have done? But I'm at ease. It's ok. I settle in. I'm more than half way, relaxed, and I've still got some work to do.

I see the sign indicating an aid station up ahead, cruising into Okaitaina at kilometre 58. For the people that have run Tarawera: we recognise this aid station sign in a nanosecond. It is magical. The simplicity of red lettering on white background simply saying 'Aid Station, 200m' brings with it floods of endorphins, a feeling of possibility, and the knowledge that people will be on the other side of that sign. I am floating now, skipping along the end of the trail as I reach it. There's something more here though. A megaphone. A women in a wedding dress yahooing at me through the megaphone. Hallucinations??Nope. This could only be Lesley, spectacularly inspiring fearsome badass lady and coach extraordinarre Lesley! We each leap and embrace and squeal and then she runs in her wedding dress to help me with what I need, talking to me through the megaphone the whole time. What do I need? How am I feeling? Hurry the heck up she says, we'll sort you right out! In a blur of joy I'm getting my stuff, being covered in sun lotion by a lovely lady. ("This reminds me of looking after kids", she says with handfuls of sun lotion and I say it must be my childlike glee). I see a really special colleague at my left elbow, who's supporting a friend. I ask how her day is doing, how her friend is doing, and before I know it I'm being chased right out of the aid station by Lesley. Chop chop she says, get right out of here! On I go to chase the next hill, the last 2 minutes a blur of people and wondrousness and noise and hilarity. That was the first aid station all day of supporters (alongside volunteers) and I realised even more then how much I valued their company.

I head into Western Okaitaina Walkway. The next section is the longest of the day, 16-17 kilometres. It will be a slog. Except it's not. Not too bad. I had literal nightmares after I ran this twice the first year, the first ultra ever and in a tropical cyclone, an apocalypse of mud that was neverending. I would wake for years later being right back there, skiing in ankle deep sludge. I'd remember the feeling of standing in the shower afterwards, all my clothes on and even shoes, the mud still stuck on me. Now? It's a beautiful winding trail. Birds chirrup as do cicadas. There's dense bush and flowy trail. Sure, it takes work. But it's special. And I'm grateful for the tree cover and a reprieve from baking sun. It could be hotter, or more barren. I get it done.

Afterwards someone says to me: you couldn't have a constantly negative attitude running ultras, could you? The positivity must help. And it does. Positivity alongside realism. Sometimes you get tired. You problem solve. You keep on. You're in it for the big picture. You embrace the ups and downs. I realise here what I've got Chris into, and Rachel too, each running their own days behind me. I feel guilty. They'll be so tired. It's so long. I'm tired too. I'm doing the maths on the course and I'm already seeing it will run a little long. But there's work to do: I focus on keeping my feet flowing and running within my abilities. I recognise some of the trail, and always find new bits I'm seeing as if for the first time. Each brings with it sets of memories. And onwards I go.

I reach Miller Road, after 17k through the up and over of Western Okaitaina Walkway. "Heck am I happy to see you!" I exclaim, and I'm not the first that day to say so. I fill myself up with ginger beer, being careful to keep things simple with food, I'm getting closer to the finish line now (at 75k) but there's still a long way to go. I see a couple of running heroes waiting for a friend of theirs: one heckles me, one heckles him for heckling me and with kindness. It feels good to run downhill on the gravel road. I belt it a little bit. These legs still work. My mood has stayed mainly high for the day. There'll be wobbles every so often. But all solvable. I see so much of the beauty. I feel so bloody lucky to be out here. The only thing I have to do is keep moving.

I come into Okaitaina campground where we camped last summer, and on next to the magnificent new boardwalk around the lake. My feet have been scratching at me. You don't mess around with these things: if it's almost a problem now it will be a problem in a few kilometres and then a Very Big Problem a few kilometres after that. I had meant to change my socks at Okaitaina before I sped out of there like a racecar in a highly tuned pitstop (led by Lesley in a wedding dress). I have spares in my bag. So I take a seat at the next opportunity, peel off my shoes and socks, wipe off my feet, and luxuriate in the ridiculously amazing fresh socks. Plus a quick message to Chris (I love you and I hope you're having an amazing day and here is where I am and things are good) and my friend who'll be waiting to join me (I'm running late I say, I'll be there as soon as I can!). A selfie is a must to a group of girlfriends. And: all this takes 7 minutes. Seven. The best. Could I have kept on without it? Of course. Might it have bitten me later by not changing? Likely. Was it worth it for my mind? Hell yes.

Off I zoom (lol - off I creak) further around Lake Okaitaina, then Okaitaina township, then into Tennant's Track, then on to Blue Lake. I'm always in awe of the thousands of hours volunteers are investing into the event. And so many marshalls sitting on corners are doing exactly that through here. I notice and I thank them and I keep on. Tennant's Track is pretty cut up and rooty, and there's lots of concentrating happening. I pop out near Blue Lake - and there are supporters! - yay! Maybe it's 20 kilometres to go now, and this is all feeling more possible. Around Blue Lake I go, maybe slower than ever, with a highlight being when I hear Stu Milne at my elbow. "Gidday Emma!" he says, as he speeds into view. Holy shit! my blurred mind exclaimed, Stu - you're winning the miler?? It wasn't far off: he was the pace runner for the first placed 100-mile runner, and the two of them floated along these smooth delightful trails at a speeding pace that I'd run a fast 10 kilometres in.

I come into the Blue Lake aid station, again to familiar faces, and again so grateful for the people that give up their weekends to help us in ours. There's a photo Julia took of me coming in here and I'm full beam, OMG PEOPLE and in realising the end is nigh. I know the trail from here and I am already looking forward to seeing more people I love. The sun is low as I run through the Redwoods. The light is very special. It's paradise. Still very hard. But there's no doubting it's special here. I look down at my watch and I know that there are more hills to come. But on we go. We got this. Bending around corners and over hills. Onwards. Through here there is a cluster of three people, of an adult and two kids. Each kid gives me a single daisy. Great job! they say. I almost lose it in a flurry of emotion. I high five them and thank them hugely. I promise to carry the daisies with me. They are in my palm for a long time, and then in my pack pocket. These are the things I remember.

On and on deep into the Redwoods. And then. We're getting there. The aid station is further than I remember. Now I can see the cars and hear the music with the people. With this there will be 7 kilometres to go. I am already anticipating seeing Kate's face, her energy as we run together for that last bit, what it means to share that time after she's been waiting. I get there. I see her! But hang on: there are more people. Abi is also going to run. Jaime, Nico, Richard and Julia are all there too. What's happening?? They are there to cheer and yahoo, especially. This lifts me so high that I feel like a whole new person, a new day, a new run. Off we set in our trio. "Tell me everything about your day!! How are you?? I can't believe you're here after already running the 20 today!!" I say, I want to know everything and hear everything and drink in their own achievements of what they've done. (Also fun tip: asking questions is a super great way of getting your breath back a tiny bit). Along we gallop, them steering me in the right direction and cautioning me of all the various bumps and dangers and mile markers of how far to go. I feel cocooned and accept the help. I feel like the luckiest ever.

There's more.

Lindsay and Mel are on a corner. They leap up and down. They have their running shoes on. They are here to join us. We are now a fivesome.

The sun is reaching the lake now and the water is ablaze with pink, reflecting the glowing skies. The light is otherworldly. It's like a storybook. And with these Queens. The best.

Michelle joins us in a field. All these people have already crushed a race of their own - and are running, again, a quietly planned flourish to end this shared day. We're collecting people! Then Mal. Jaime. Nico. The pace is getting faster and faster, we're almost there, and faster still when they tell me the beer tent is closing. (Jokes. But it helped). Nine of us round the corner into the finishing chute. We're there. I leap over the finish line and in the background you can see people. The crew. My loves. Hands held up high in cheers. We did it.

Kerry is on the finish line commentating, a book end to the day. He was there at the beginning and here he is on the finish line. I thank him. This is not a day of sleep for him, nor much even in the month prior. He's a cornerstone to many peoples journeys and has been part of mine in recent years. We share words. I thank him for making friends on that bus all those years ago on the first Tarawera: You think you've come for a run, he said, but you are going to stay for the people.

Around the corner into the aid tent I go and I want to zoom right out to hang with these cherished people (and to lay horizontal in the grass). Want do you want to do now? I say. And I realise there's nothing else to do. Nothing we have to. But to be. And they spoil me like heck, with those minutes and those hours following being about sharing in the day. Of all our days. I get a shower. We go out for dinner. I get a nap. We go back out to that majestic last aid station.

My voice is scratchy from so many hollers and cheers at the 2am cheer party. This is the final aid station where we spend over two hours. I see Marieve in her last few kilometres, and Rachel, and then Chris. CHRIS! We run the end of his day together too, a story all of it's own, and a very meaningful one. He finishes. We leave the finish line as the sun comes up. It's been more than 24 hours since we woke the day previously.

What a day it had been, in between.

It's never about the day. It's about everything that comes before it, and the learnings, and the relationships that flourish to make it what it becomes. That's what keeps us going back. And that - I don't say this lightly - changes lives.