#jake got hurt for a bit and aj came in??

[cementcornfield]

Well!!! I certainly missed a lot this afternoon!!

[chuffyfan87]

Growing Pains. Part 13c

"How long have you been in pain?" Duffy asked.

“Since this morning.” Sarah whispered.

"OK. Have you felt the baby move today?"

“Yes.” Sarah said quietly.

"That's good. I'd feel happier if you went to the hospital for a scan though."

“It’ll be fine.” Sarah was distant.

"Sarah..." Duffy began before pausing as the baby kicked against her hand.

Sarah closed her eyes as the baby kicked.

"Well hello little one." Duffy smiled.

“Can I go now?” Sarah asked.

"I can't force you to go to the hospital..." Duffy sighed.

The baby kicked again and Sarah sighed. “Stop it.” She whispered.

"You'll have to get used to that." Duffy smiled. "Lottie was the only one of mine that wasn't kicking the living daylights out of my insides 24/7!"

“I hate it, being kicked.” Sarah admitted in a whisper.

"It was them lying on my spine that used to drive me to distraction."

“Hmm.” Sarah moved to get out of the car, “Thanks for checking me over.” She was about to walk away when she suddenly stopped and doubled over slightly. “Fuck!” She cursed.

Duffy jumped up to grab hold of Sarah before she fell and hurt herself further. "Right, that's it, I'm not asking this time, I'm telling. You're going to the hospital with me right now!"

“I don’t want to!” Sarah protested, trying to straighten up.

"Why are you so against the idea?"

“Hate hospitals.” Sarah murmured.

"We get that a lot." Duffy chuckled darkly.

“Something might happen to me...” Sarah swallowed, “I feel dizzy.”

"I'm not happy with your pulse and resp rate. Let's get you back in the car. I'll make sure you're taken care of."

“Don’t tell AJ.” Sarah begged, “Please!”

"Isn't he going to wonder what's going on?" Duffy replied as she settled Sarah onto the back seat.

“He doesn’t really care.” Sarah mumbled.

"Really?" Duffy asked as she got into the driver's seat.

“Yeah.”

"Do you want me to call Peter when we get to the hospital?" Duffy asked, her eyes focused on the road as she pulled away from the curb.

“No.”

"OK."

An awkward silence descended over the occupants of the car as they headed to the hospital, only broken by occasional gasps of pain from Sarah.

Sarah was getting worked up, which was causing the baby to kick more. “Stop, please!” She begged through tears.

"We're almost there." Duffy attempted to reassure Sarah.

“Mummy’s sorry.” Sarah whispered as she stroked her stomach for a few seconds.

The car came to a stop outside the hospital.

"Jake grab a wheelchair and let your dad know we're here." Duffy requested.

Jake nodded and did as requested, getting a wheelchair for Sarah and telling Charlie that they were here.

Once Sarah was settled into a cubicle Duffy took hold of the scanning wand and gel. She smiled softly at Sarah. "I'm sorry this is going to be cold."

Sarah nodded but turned her head away from the screen.

Duffy began the ultrasound scan, her eyes focused on the screen.

Sarah bit down on her lower lip so hard she drew blood.

"Don't you want to see your baby?" Duffy asked.

Sarah didn’t reply, just continued to look the other way.

"Sarah what's wrong?" Duffy asked, perching on the edge of the bed and taking hold of Sarah's hand with her free hand.

“Nothing. Is she ok?”

"Its a girl?" Duffy asked, she was trying to remain detached but it was proving difficult.

“A girl.” Sarah whispered back, “If she’s ok, can I go home now?”

"She's just perfect." Duffy smiled, her eyes fixed on the flickering image on the monitor.

Sarah sat up, “Can I have a tissue to wipe the gel off please?”

"Um... Sure..." Duffy replied distractedly, handing Sarah some tissue.

“Thanks.” Sarah began to wipe the gel from her stomach, her lip still bleeding slightly.

"Hopefully the doctor won't be long before they come beck with your other test results."

“The baby’s definitely ok?” Sarah began to fiddle with her hands.

"Yes, everything checks out. Though... I have to ask... Are you sure about your dates?"

“Yes, why?”

"Admittedly I'm not an ultrasound technician but I am a midwife and its just that some of developmental markers would suggest the baby is nearer twenty six weeks gestation rather than twenty four..."

Sarah swallowed, “It doesn’t matter anyway.”

"What do you mean it doesn't matter? Of course it matters!"

“Why does it?!”

"It does if it rules my son out as the father."

“I’m twenty four weeks!!”

"If you say so."

“I know so!”

"If you're so sure will you agree to a DNA test once the baby is born?"

“No! It’s Peter’s!”

"Prove it!"

“No!!” Sarah yelled and burst into tears.

Sarah's raised voice attracted the attention of one of the other nurses who entered the cubicle.

"I... Excuse me!" Duffy mumbled before beating a hasty retreat to Charlie's office.

Sarah hadn’t meant to upset Duffy. She curled up and began to cry.

Entering the office Duffy swiftly closed the door and lent back against it before bursting into tears.

Duffy let out a squeal as she heard her husband's voice from his desk. She'd thought the office would be empty.

Charlie stepped towards her and wrapped his arms around his wife. “What’s wrong, sweetheart?”

"Sarah..."

“Is she ok?”

"Yeh the baby is fine but it all just doesn't stack up. I can't wrap my head round it. Seeing her on the screen, so innocent, so perfect..."

“What do you mean?” He guided her to sit down.

"Sarah swears she's twenty four weeks..."

“But you don’t think she is?”

"I'd stake my reputation as a midwife on that baby being twenty six weeks."

Charlie gasped, “So it can’t be Peter’s?”

"I don't know. Depends when he was stupid enough to sleep with her."

“Maybe we need to ask Peter when it was?”

"I thought you said he told you all about it at the time."

Charlie thought for a moment. “He said it was Christmas Eve when he slept with her, just the once by the sounds of things.”

"If she's twenty six weeks then that would put the date of conception much earlier in December than Christmas."

“She’s been lying to him? All this time but why?”

"I don't know. No wonder she didn't want me to bring her to the hospital! She knew what I'd find!"

He sighed, “I didn’t think she’d lie to Peter about something like this!”

"Do we tell him?"

“Yes we have to.”

Jake burst through the door of his dad’s office, “Mum, dad!”

"What's wrong?"

“It’s Sarah.”

Duffy jumped to her feet. "What's happened? Is she OK?"

“She took a scalpel and has locked herself in the toilets!”

Duffy gasped, her panicked gaze flitting from Jake to Charlie and back again.

“You both know her better than I do.” Jake shrugged.

"You stay here." Duffy told Jake.

“I will.”

Duffy didn't say anything else but her eyes begged Charlie to come with her.

Charlie took her hand.

When they arrived in the toilets they could here the sound of crying coming from one of the cubicles.

“Sarah?”

“Leave me alone!”

"Sarah please. I didn't mean to upset you. We can sort this out."

“No we can’t!”

"Was there a reason you needed to lie?"

“You wouldn’t understand.”

"Try me. I may surprise you."

“It would’ve had a better chance with Peter.”

"Does... Does AJ hurt you? Make you scared? Is that why?"

“AJ isn’t ready to commit. Likes being free, girls, drink, the occasional drugs...”

"So you decided Peter was a better option?"

“Peter would’ve taken responsibility.”

"Yes he would." Duffy paused. "Did you already suspect you were pregnant when you slept with him?"

“It wasn’t planned. The baby, it wasn’t planned.”

"I want to believe you but you must be able to see why there's a seed of doubt there?"

“I didn’t plan on getting pregnant and fucking up my entire life!!”

"You never know, once the baby's here it might make AJ sort his act out. And even if it doesn't being a single mum doesn't mean you've fucked your life up. Believe me!"

“I’m not being a single mum!!” Sarah shouted, “I’m not being a complete and utter fuck up!!”

A trickle of blood ran out from under the cubicle door.

"Sarah! Open the door now!"

“Why?”

[stevetwisp]

If you're free I'd love to hear some pony headcannons ;v; won't get into it but I'm having a hard night, all your headcannons are amazing and they always cheer me up!

aaaaaa im sorry this is a little late i’ll try n come up with some stuff

i’ve been rewatching the series again so i could clock in more hours on watching the later seasons and i had some thoughts

-pinkie pie and marble pie are twins, (which sort of throws a wrench in the whole, pinkie pie is a child of uhh... “adultery” headcanon) i think the reason pinkie came out all pink is bc she’s directly linked to (or the most linked to) the elements of harmony, i like to imagine bc pinkie is an earth pony with her own kind of magic that is unique to her, she’s got some sort of celestial power linked to her element, i like to imagine next to twilight, she has the most powerful magical presence when it comes to friendship 

-the idea of applejack being so curt, rowdy, and a big liar as a child actually makes me ship appledash a bit more? it’s like that scene from brooklyn nine nine where Jake finds out Holt was like a huge reckless badass as a younger man and Jake says “i think i’d like young Holt” and Holt is like “yeah that’s why i changed everything about myself” 

like... that scene but with a teenage rainbowdash and applejack

as kids i bet they’d be so rowdy and make a huge mess and maybe as AJ gets older there’s a bit of a drift between them that’s where i like to put in like... @ask-human-appletrash ‘s headcanons of like Dash running off with Gilda to pursue a more damaging life style with danger and drugs and stuff and when Gilda hurts Dash she comes back to AJ and the Apples for help and they’re more than happy to take her in and help her get back on track again...

-twilight! has! issues! with! her! parents!!!!!!!!!i need to rewatch one upon a zeppelin bc there’s stuff in that that helps my case but i am actually in the middle of writing a short comic of how i view twilight’s relationship with her parents (mostly her mom), which is Not Greati mean both twilight and shining armour were shipped off to boarding schools at incredibly young ages, and yeah sure both of them are big achievers but they’re still kids when this happensi just have this feeling like twilight’s inability to reach out to others and her need to keep studying isn’t just a character choice, but also the only thing she’s ever been taught (which is supported by canon bc... twilight needs to learn about friendship)like imagine having parents who actively push you to pursue studies rather than a normal childhood with friends and ... stuffthe once upon a zeppelin thing is like, twilight just wants one chance to feel like she’s in a normal family where she gets to do something *she* likes and she doesn’t get thati just imagine like... how many times that has happened in twilight’s life with her parents 

-spike is trans, he’s my good good trans boy who wants to explore his femininity in a way that doesnt invalidate his trans identity rarity is happy to dress him up and twilight is always actively validating his gender identity by giving him “boy’s nights” and actively calling him a boy or a guy 

-this isnt a headcanon but big mac spike and discord are BIG FRIENDS, AND I LOVE THEIR FRIENDSHIPdiscord is a big BPD baby who needs reassurance and has difficulty with his feelings when it comes to others but big mac is a pretty patient dude, who’s learned a lot in his life and knows to just quietly go along with discordspike just takes no shit and i JUST LOVE THIS DYNAMIC i want 100 more episodes with these three

dungeons and discords is such a fun episode and the break up break down hsa quickly become one of my fav episodes ever

-celestia and chrysalis had a brief fling before chrysalis attacked the twinkle eye kingdom and started the war that got her turned into swiss cheese it was during this time celestia was crossing over into the mirror world and meeting with alt sombra and chrysalis got JEALOUS

-the three ponies who run Rarity For You in Manehatten did not get a long at first but now they are a poly couple who run the store themselves 

ok that’s all i got for now cx

but i’ll always have more later!!!!!!!!! haha

[iamjazzcarilla]

My Home Away from Home

(M3SY Production Teambuilding 2018)

The last time I did something like this was two years ago, when I was the production manager for our film class.

Me being me, I always run away from responsibilities—always choosing to stay at the background, following the leaders and silently doing whatever meager task I was assigned with.

Being a facilitator of this event was unplanned, I really just wanted to join the ocular because I wanted to do something fruitful on that particular Saturday.

And, really, who could and who would tell me that what we did on that fateful Saturday was something not fruitful when a whole two days of activities were formed because of it?

Admittedly, in most of our meetings, I was just going with the flow—only choosing to butt in when 1) my cofacilitators were losing track of the discussion and 2) when I am particularly sure of something and want to put my foot down.

And honestly? Up to this day, I still don't know most of the minute details of every single activity we planned, I just know that I enjoyed watching the attendees have the time of their lives while involving themselves in games made to test their grit, creativity, resourcefulness, teamwork and even their limits.

Sleeping over on a Thursday for a last minute preparation proved to be a challenge—at three in the morning, everyone was either grumpy, fighting to keep their eyes open, singing a particular line over and over again (all for you!) or straight up, shamelessly yawning, all the while, everybody has their own task of cutting crepe papers, papers, printing last-minute changes or creating medals.

At four a.m., our bodies gave up and we succumb to an hour-and-a-half of sleep.

We were up by 5:30 and unsurprisingly, nobody was well rested, everyone holding on to their last thread of strength and adrenaline to survive the day.

As we arrive in Lopez Farm, the greenery greeted our tired, tired bodies.

Choosing to stay over for some peace, quiet and a bit of rest, instead of going to the market, an emergency review of the budget, kit-preparation and room-planning commenced.

At one in the afternoon, people started trickling in, their excited and expectant gazes no doubt pushing all of us to squeeze out the last of the strength that we have, forcing us to exert a new bout of efforts to finally finish the planned stage setup and the super last minute preparations.

The first day was filled with talks and calm activities, just a way to prepare them for what's about to come.

My lack of sleep was finally catching up on me, most of the time, I don't have any plans— just going with the flow, saying yes on things, accepting whatever task comes my way and sneaking in some minutes of longed sleep.

I was tired, goddamn tired, but the smiles and the unconstrained excitement of the reason for this teambuilding sustained me the whole day and night.

I think I did everything that Friday: from thinking of animals that made the weirdest sounds to hosting an impromptu late night show.

But that was not the end of it.

As the high went down, we prepared them for the last activity before the worship night: The Faith Walk.

If you think that this is just hard for those who were blindfolded, then I'll straight up tell you now that it's not.

Guiding them, telling them what to do and where to go is just as exhausting as being the one kept from seeing the surroundings and trusting someone to keep you from falling.

Everything was going well, I was holding an exorcised rosary courtesy of one of my favorite persons ever and I was guiding the attendees through the vast and unknown land of Lopez Farm; everything was light-hearted and fun until that one person who I was supposed to guide came crying.

Then it hit me, all at once, that if I were the one doing this, I'll probably be bawling my eyes out harder than she was, my trust issues acting up.

The mere strength, courage and bravery to continue when she could barely breathe and could just scream "Stop!!!" at any point if she really wanted to made me look at things in a different perspective.

Yes, I have all the senses, yes, I know where they were going and yes, I was supposed to be their guide, but my job is just as exhausting as theirs.

Trust goes both ways—you trust another person and you wish for them to never put you in danger, and then you are being trusted, and it's your duty to do all you can to never break it.

When it was done, my feet hurt like hell, I can barely stand during worship night (which in all fairness, as much as our voices were already giving up, was a great, great, great success).

And yet, I chose to take a dip in the pool that was infested by two frogs just mere minutes before we got in.

Imagine the pain my poor, poor calf muscles experienced the next day.

Three hours of sleep later, I was woken up, not by my alarm clock but by a hand grabbing my feet and someone telling me "Jazz, 5:30 na, yung lugaw!"

I had to get up so we won't die of hunger; and lo and behold, there was not enough water to properly cook the porridge, but I had no choice but to start cooking it, otherwise, breakfast will happen at noon

I would now like to extend my sincerest apologies to everyone who almost died of hunger because breakfast took three hours before it was served, and to Sis Love who had to salvage whatever that was I initially made.

Another impromptu hosting, raffle and dancing later, the attendees were now ready to face the real thing: the much awaited activities.

I am and will forever be amazed by the fact that no one tried to bring anyone down, instead choosing to cheer for the other team, all the while fighting for their own.

I was given the task to facilitate an activity that involved the usage of lips and believe me when I say I've never seen something that was as funny and limit-pusher as that one.

The number of times people almost kissed another person accidentally made my day.

And of course, who would forget that squabble for that flag which tested friendships, patience and people.

But, really, by the end of it all, the unity was palpable, the love surrounding and, of course, the delicious waft of sinigang na baboy was calling all of us.

I could go into details with how the rest of the afternoon went by—swimming, resting, a different kind of worship for the facilitators, taking a much needed bath and poop—but I won't.

Instead, I would just like you to remember what you did, bask yourself in the feeling of it and take this moment to thank Him for all that He has allowed us to do.

I would dare say that this teambuilding was a success; the constant expression of gratitude from everyone made every single tear, blood and sleepless night worth it.

And this time, allow me to thank everyone who said yes, everyone who chose to spend their much-awaited long weekend with us.

Thank you, for being cooperative, supportive and for every single "Oh, magpahinga na muna kayo, kami na muna dito." you uttered even though this was made so that you would enjoy every single moment of it.

To those who spent the two days in the kitchen, making sure that there would be enough food for everyone, thank you.

We all know that you are the unsung heroes of this event, we would have suffered a lot if you weren't there exercising your arms while cutting onions and garlic and stirring the food we all know we enjoyed so much.

To our council who approved this, thank you.

As previously said, this only happens once in a blue moon and the fact that you allowed and trusted us to push through this made us feel honored.

And to my cofacilitators: Rachel, Raul, Babs, Love, AJ and of course, our ministry head, Jake, thank you for the tireless dedication and the never-ending support and efforts you've all exerted the past few weeks.

Words will never be enough to compensate for all the nights you didn't sleep, for all the mornings and afternoons you worried yourself sick (I'm looking at you, Jake) and pushed yourself to the limit (Yes, you too, Rachel) and for everything in between when you gave your all at all times.

Here's to more bingsu, 12 hours of bonding, roadtrips, stories, bickerings and unplanned trips to Bonchon.

Here's to friendship, twinning and bullying with love.

You're all the reason why I always, always look forward to Sundays.

I hope you all know how much space you occupy in my heart and how happy I am to grow with all of you.

I love you, prod team! See you on Sunday!

And, of course, to Him, without whom this would not exist. To You be the glory, oh Lord. 💜

[placetobenation]

RIP Pat Patterson.

The WWE and the entire wrestling world lost a legend this week with the passing of Pat Patterson at the age of 79. The original Intercontinental Champion was also the creator of one of the WWE’s signature events, the Royal Rumble.

I’ll remember him for his infamous feud with Sgt. Slaughter that led to a classic Boot Camp Match and Alley Match in Madison Square Garden. After an accomplished in-ring career that started out in the Pacific Northwest and San Francisco, continued through the AWA and ultimately the WWE, Patterson moved into the announcer’s chair alongside Gorilla Monsoon and Vince McMahon.

The WWE Hall of Famer actually won the 24/7 Championship, becoming the oldest champion in WWE history at 78. He’s been a trusted ally and producer behind the scenes for McMahon. What’s funny about him being the first I-C Champion is the fact that he “won” it in a tournament that never took place back in 1979 in Mexico City. It was a title created to be the second biggest championship in the company behind the then WWF Heavyweight Championship. The tribute to Patterson on SmackDown was very well done, including him singing “My Way,” a Patterson favorite along with Frank Sinatra. If you missed it, watch it here.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends and the entire wrestling community.

RAW

RESULTS

Symphony of Destruction Match: Jeff Hardy defeated Elias

Slapjack defeated Ricochet

Non-Title WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship Match: Asuka & Lana defeated Shayna Baszler & Nia Jax

Cedric Alexander defeated Xavier Woods

Sudden Death #1 Contenders Match for WWE Championship: AJ Styles defeated Keith Lee & Riddle

Drew McIntyre & Sheamus defeated The Miz & John Morrison by DQ

Interesting to see both the WWE and RAW Women’s Champions both in tag team action this week.

As I’ve said in previous weeks, I really like Drew McIntyre and Sheamus together. The friendship and backstory is real. Both want to kick the *&$( out of The Miz and John Morrison and it just works. You have the built-in story of the WWE Champion vs. the Money In the Bank holder too. Sheamus as a tweener good guy will work for a bit until he ultimately turns on Drew next year.

The opening A Moment of Bliss with Alexa Bliss and Randy Orton was really good to start the night. Orton was spot on with his mic work defining Bray Wyatt and The Fiend. Plus, Orton didn’t back down when The Fiend appears, instead handing Bliss, who was in Orton’s arms as the lights came on, back to The Fiend while asking “who’s laughing now.” Good stuff as expected.

OH SNAP!#WWERaw #SymphonyOfDestruction @JEFFHARDYBRAND @IAmEliasWWE pic.twitter.com/D54e8k56ol

— WWE (@WWE) December 1, 2020

SWANTON BOMB!#WWERaw #SymphonyOfDestruction @JEFFHARDYBRAND @IAmEliasWWE pic.twitter.com/a6HpQqdUBz

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) December 1, 2020

How the heck did Jeff Hardy not break his neck on the steel steps with that swanton off the top ring post? Damn that was scary! BTW: Didn’t we get a Symphony of Destruction match before with Elias and Braun Strowman back in March of 2018? The RAW announce crew made it seem like it was a first-time thing. Tough night for Elias. Shocked and swantoned!

Dana Brooke joins Ricochet against RETRIBUTION. First Brooke slaps Ali, then accidently knocks off RECKONING’s (Mia Yim) mask before pinning Yim. How the hell the RAW announce team wasn’t screaming “that’s Mia Yim” is beyond me! Should’ve capitalized on it and make it part of the angle. 

I smell a tag team title match coming for Asuka and Lana in the near future! For the second week in the row, Asuka and Lana get the win over Nia Jax & Shayna Baszler. It’s nice not to see Lana roughed up for a second straight week. Jax & Baszler’s act is getting old and I can see the belts changing hands at TLC. Maybe Asuka can ask Sasha Banks & Bayley for two-belt advice!

#WWERaw @CedricAlexander @The305MVP @Sheltyb803 pic.twitter.com/NhLO0ZkDaP

— WWE (@WWE) December 1, 2020

Cedric Alexander got the pin over Xavier Woods, but it looks like there could be a little dissention in the ranks of The Hurt Business. MVP and Shelton Benjamin didn’t seem to enjoy Alexander walking up the ramp celebrating his victory without them. Something to watch.

The triple threat number one contender’s match went as expected. Styles pins Riddle after a decent match. So, now we get McIntyre vs. Styles for the first time ever at TLC. Looks like this was the backup plan after Braun Strowman got injured and now suspended for the storyline.

A 𝑷𝒉𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒂𝒍 outcome!@AJStylesOrg is going to face @DMcIntyreWWE for the #WWETitle at #WWETLC! #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/dIIgtOhOIR

— WWE (@WWE) December 1, 2020

Let’s just say there was a lot to the main event. Would Sheamus turn on Drew? Would AJ Styles help The Miz to cash in his MITB contract? Would the WWE Champ maintain his dominance over The Miz and John Morrison? Well, let’s just suffice it to see that Sheamus stayed true. AJ tried. The Miz tried and didn’t quite cash in. Now, it’s on between The Phenomenal One and McIntyre at TLC! Awesome line by Drew to close the night – “Jackass and the Beanstalk” – when talking about AJ and his bodyguard. FAS!

You can believe @DMcIntyreWWE wants to cross paths with @WWERomanReigns again down the line… But in the meantime, he looks forward to meeting @AJStylesOrg at #WWETLC! #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/8EUG2hnpIM

— WWE (@WWE) December 1, 2020

BTW: The thought of a Reigns vs. McIntyre sequel? Yes, please!

NXT

RESULTS

Damien Priest & Leon Ruff defeated Legado Del Fantasma

Cameron Grimes defeated Austin Grey

Jake Atlas defeated Tony Nese

Ever-Rise vs. Grizzled Young Veterans went to a no-contest

Imperium defeated Grizzled Young Veterans by DQ

WarGames Advantage Ladder Match: Shotzi Blackheart defeated Raquel Gonzalez

Now THAT's a #WarGames team!

#WWENXT #NXTTakeOver @RheaRipley_WWE @WWEEmberMoon @ShotziWWE @shirai_io pic.twitter.com/byeDfASCF6

— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) December 3, 2020

I’ll be honest, heading into WarGames this Sunday, I expected a little bit more from NXT. The main event was amazing, especially with the surprise of NXT Women’s Champion Io Shirai joining Team Shotzi! Anytime you can add a talent like Shirai to a match like WarGames, it’s a win-win. I will say though that the use of the ladder match is getting a bit overused in NXT these days. There are other ways to do an advantage match.

Sheer GENIUS. #WWENXT #WeAreNXT #WarGames @shirai_io pic.twitter.com/9SDisQ89yE

— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) December 3, 2020

The rest of the show, however, wasn’t really something to remember. Pat McAfee’s promo in the ring, which is usually on spot, went a bit too long and kind of just rambled along. The Undisputed ERA vignette didn’t do much for me to help build the WarGames match. Don’t get me wrong, the match will be amazing, but the lack of build-up Wednesday night was a bit of a letdown.

Tonight, they win as teammates. This Sunday at #NXTTakeOver: WarGames, @LEONRUFF_ & @ArcherOfInfamy fight as competitors over the #NXTNATitle! #WWENXT pic.twitter.com/zFNm6TsgD0

— WWE (@WWE) December 3, 2020

.@JohnnyGargano, do you have other friends you're not telling us about?

#WWENXT pic.twitter.com/fcSUspY9su

— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) December 3, 2020

Outside of the main event, the opening tag team match was fun and a good spot to showcase Leon Ruff and Damien Priest’s NXT North American Championship match with Johnny Gargano doing commentary. It was also different to see them in there in a tag team match with NXT Cruiserweight Champion Santos Escobar leading Legado Del Fantasma. You have to wonder if we see more of the Scream guys too. They’re a hoot!

Dexter Lumis and Cameron Grimes trading strap barbs was predictable as was Tommaso Ciampa showing up in Timothy Thatcher’s Thatch-As-Thatch-Can distraction session. In both cases, the matches Sunday will be fine, but the road to get there was a bit disappointing.

Giving Ever-Rise a bit of a rub with the Grizzled Young Veterans and Imperium was interesting. I can get into a GYV vs. Imperium feud. That was a pretty good match with an unsatisfying ending with Ever-Rise coming back for the DQ to get back at Imperium for chucking them out of their match with the GYV.

What have @XiaWWE & @Bigboawwe gotten themselves into…?#WWENXT pic.twitter.com/qJN4mvkGhh

— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) December 4, 2020

I have no idea what’s going on with Xia Li and Big Boa! I’m interested but I haven’t a clue as to where it’s going.

SMACKDOWN

RESULTS

Natalya defeated Bayley

Pat Patterson Tribute 6-Man Tag Team Match: Daniel Bryan, Rey Mysterio, Big E defeated Sami Zayn, Dolph Ziggler, Shinsuke Nakamura

King Corbin defeated Murphy

Kevin Owens & Otis defeated Roman Reigns & Jey Uso by DQ

.@KaylaBraxtonWWE: Do you fear @FightOwensFight? #SmackDown@WWERomanReigns: pic.twitter.com/5Xiz3puJIP

— WWE (@WWE) December 5, 2020

If it’s Friday night, it must be time for Roman Reigns to deliver! Simply put, Reigns is the most dynamic performer right now in the business.

First, trying to belittle Kayla Braxton to open the night for some “shoddy” questions, even when they weren’t. Talk about trying to exude your dominance! Then, accepting Kevin Owens TLC match challenge for two weeks. It’s amazing how good Reigns is in his current role as the Tribal Chief and Head of the Table. Now, with Owens, he’s got a worthy challenger as well. I’m hoping it’s not just a one-off PPV feud. As for the main event tag team match, Reigns of course let Uso start the match by himself before coming in mid-match and destroying Otis. leaving Owens by himself. Nothing starts without the Head of the Table right? Reigns’ utter contempt for Uso’s lack of success in trying to beat Owens was beautiful, but ultimately put a DQ loss on his own team. Just seconds later though, it’s a double-chair beatdown on KO for the knockout to the TLC challenger. What puts it over the top is the attack on his own cousin too! Roman has all of our attention now! Look out Owens family.

"You wanted my attention? Now you have my attention. Now THEY ALL have my attention." – @WWERomanReigns w/ @HeymanHustle to @FightOwensFight #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/cDHMq20xhS

— WWE on FOX (@WWEonFOX) December 5, 2020

Natalya beating Bayley? Well, that was surprising.

The #WWEThunderDome is going absolutely BANANA for this! The Pat Patterson Tribute Match on #SmackDown featuring six WWE Superstars who have held the prestigious Intercontinental Championship has been a sight to behold!#ThankYouPat pic.twitter.com/xYlySieWRw

— WWE (@WWE) December 5, 2020

Kudos to Sami Zayn, Daniel Bryan, Dolph Ziggler, Big E, Shinsuke Nakamura and Rey Mysterio for putting on an entertaining 6-man match to honor Pat Patterson. The current and former Intercontinental Champions surely did the first I-C Champion proud with their efforts. Fitting to Mysterious see Bryan pin Zayn with the small package, a Patterson favorite and then Ziggler selling the atomic knee drop after the match too. Well done and it looks like we may get Zayn vs. Bryan again, this time with the title on the line.

"With half the work, I'm BETTER than you." – @CarmellaWWE

#SmackDown @SashaBanksWWE pic.twitter.com/N5cEzdEwsm

— WWE (@WWE) December 5, 2020

Carmella vs. Sasha, the War of Words got my attention. Carmella makes every point on how she should be on Sasha’s level. She’s more than just the hot chick who walked into the Performance Center on a whim while Sasha worked her whole life to get there. Fightin’ words my friends! I’d love to see Corey Graves get involved in this one too to take this one to the next level!

We didn’t enjoy part one of King Corbin vs. Murphy. What made the WWE think we wanted a part 2?  Looks like The Forgotten Sons got a makeover to be part of the KC Court and quickly help the King out to a victory in the rematch. There’s no End of Days to this feud apparently.

Parting Shots:

A very interesting week outside the WWE! Former WWE Champion Jon Moxley lost his AEW Championship to Kenny Omega while kicking off a new partnership with Impact Wrestling as Don Callis helped Omega win the title and take the title presumably to Tuesday nights. Plus, Sting debuted in AEW with a shiny new multi-year contract to help out Cody Rhodes and Darby Allin. Are we getting a scenario reminiscent of the old territory days where companies will actually work together to compete with the WWE? If they can get along, it’s a good strategy with lots of possibilities.

It’s a busy Sunday for the WWE with the Tribute to the Troops airing on FOX Sunday afternoon either before or after the NFL game in your market (3pm or 4:30pm) and then NXT TakeOver: WarGames Sunday night at 7pm on the WWE Network.

Tribute to the Troops

WWE Championship Match: Drew McIntyre vs. The Miz

Sasha Banks & Bianca Belair vs. Bayley & Natalya

Daniel Bryan, Rey Mysterio, Jeff Hardy & SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Street Profits vs. King Corbin, Elias, Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn, Dolph Ziggler & Robert Roode

NXT: TakeOver WarGames – Updated Card

WarGames: The Undisputed Era vs. The Kings of NXT

WarGames: Candice LeRae, Toni Storm, Raquel Gonzalez, Dakota Kai vs. Ember Moon, Shotzi Blackheart, Rhea Ripley & Io Shirai

NXT North American Championship Triple Threat Match: Leon Ruff vs. Johnny Gargano vs. Damian Priest

Strap Match: Dexter Lumis vs. Cameron Grimes

(Timothy Thatcher vs. Tommaso Ciampa

TLC PPV – Updated Card

WWE Championship: Drew McIntyre vs. AJ Styles

Universal Championship TLC Match: Roman Reigns vs. Kevin Owens

SmackDown Women’s Championship Match: Sasha Banks vs. Carmella

The Fiend vs. Randy Orton

Coming up this week:

#WWERaw @SuperKingofBros @fightbobby pic.twitter.com/SPclLkrlq8

— WWE (@WWE) December 1, 2020

RAW Randy Orton visits The Firefly Fun House 3-on-2 Handicap Match: AJ Styles, The Miz & John Morrison vs. Drew McIntyre & Sheamus Riddle vs. Bobby Lashley (?)

NXT: WarGames fallout

SMACKDOWN: TBD

Thanks for letting us share our thoughts! Shoot me an email at jcrowe567@gmail.com. We’d love to hear your comments and suggestions! You can also check out my blog, The Crowe’s Nest as we delve into more pro wrestling, sports entertainment and the World of Sports. My apologies ahead of time – I AM a Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins fan! If you’re not down with that, I’ve got TWO WORDS for you… NEW ENGLAND

[survivorbermuda-blog]

TIM’S RITES OF PASSAGE PART 2

14th: Sean- R.I.P Sean. I'm sorry that I ended up voting you out but that was only because what I was telling you was being leaked. You are a really cool person and personally I liked you a bunch and wanted to work with you but its just that our goals and ideas didn't align. You were with your people and I was with mine and I think we were after eachothers allies. Before you left you said I was going to get played but I'm not banjo getting strung along or flute. I hope that there's no hard feelings and I hope to see that you're doing good.

13th: Aj- I finally finished watching Survivor Maryland All stars! I'm not sure of you care or not lol but it was really good and I enjoyed it. I'm glad that we found something in common that we could talk about, even if it was just for a little bit. I genuinely loved how unfiltered you were and how you would and could say anything that was on your mind and I respect that. I apologize for voting you out but I hope you understand that I had to in order to get where I am today. See you soon, well hopefully not too soon but one round after soon lol.

12th: Kage- Kage you had an incredible social game and you were phenomenal. Not to mention that you had an idol in your back pocket? Now that's real power. I want to explain if you allow, why I voted you out. You were essentially in the position that I wanted to place myself in which was right in the middle of things safe and sound. If no idols were played that round that I'm sure that I would be where you are and you would be here. I hope that you're doing ok and still as goofy as ever multiple shirt icon lol.

11th: Matt- Matt MOTHERFRICKIN Summers. Boi have you done an amazing job gamewise. You've gotten eliminated and cameback, found an idol and played it, and bounced back with a majority. That's extremely impressive. I really enjoyed playing the game with you and socializing a bunch with you and I still look forward to playing Fallout 76 with you! Im holding that to you lol. After Tee left I had to find someone else to love with all of my heart and it turned out to be you and Lily. Summers I wholeheartedly think that you're a kind soul and a wholesome and pure person and it sucks that I had to vote you out but I had to seperate my personal feelings from my game and flip on you because I knew I was at the bottom over there right along with Mak. I hope you can forgive me if I caused you any grief. I'm gonna close this out with some words from the heart: "In the chill of Fall and the warmth of Spring. And even in icey Winter. I'm always burning up inside because regardless of the season, its always Summer with Matt Summers in my heart". PS: So theres this game called Dead by Daylight that I LOVE and its free if you have Ps plus so download it so we can play after the game lol.

10th: Nick- Nick I just want to start off by saying believe it or not... your vote was the most difficult one that I've ever had to do. Not because we were oh so close or the best allies ever in this game, but because you came here to play the game and you stopped at absolutely nothing to do that. You were able to think critically and even attempt to work me, not one of your biggest fans at that time, all for the sake of the game and great gameplay. That following round after Matt left I talked and talked with you and I genuinely and from the bottom of my heart enjoyed it and it was in that moment I knew that I wanted to play the rest of the game with you. I had put aside all of our past differences and focused on who you were and how you thought and I found myself in that. Duncan, however was adamnt about sending you home and once again I had to seperate my personal feelings from my game and vote for you because Owen had immunity and I knew that you were in fact a threat. The only thing that allowed me to do that was when you told everyone the round before something along the lines of.. "Lets do this even if its for one round". I hope that you can see me for the player I am and acknowledge that our past differences had nothing to do with your voting out and I wasn't bitter. I do think that you're a good guy Nick and I hope that all you deal is a deck full of hearts ♡(get it because you're a poker dealer) and you land that gal you've been talking to. I respect and appreciate you mijo.

9th: Mak- Maksym!! Ah good ole Maksy boy! I'm very proud of you for returning to the game and making it so far. Although I only got to know you a little bit for the time you were here Im sure that you're a great young person with a bright future.

8th: Rodrigo- Before you left you told me "Fuck you and your little friend" and Im so sorry that you feel that way about me and I hope you don't hate me. I know that leaving the game after working so hard has to hurt severely badly. In reality I didn't even vote against you. But you know who did? The very same person who you were trying to save.. Owen. Who voted for you twice! As well as Duncan. I actually voted out RJ because I didn't want to flip on you even though you were trying to protect Owen.  Besides that fact, I did enjoy talking to you while you were on vacation and out enjoying yourself and I felt like we connected over boys and videogames and stuff. I hope that I can see you again one day and forge a brand new great relationship thats unrelated to the game.

7th: RJ- Firstly RJ I am so sorry that you went home. I had no idea that you were going to go the round you had went out. But what I truly want to apologize for is not giving you a valif reason as to why I had voted for you on Rodrigos round. The truth of that matter is that I only voted you so that I could maintain the trust that I had formed with Christian and Jake and stay loyal to them but that would only happen at the cost of losing your trust and respect but I hope you understand that I only did that because the trust of two people seemed greater than the trust of one, who at that time was loyal to his allies down to a fault. Besides all of that, I look forward to buying something from Thread and helping out their cause as well as indirectly supporting you lol. I hope that everything is all good between us and that I can somehow fix what went wrong. Thank you for playing as wellas you did and being as great as you are.

6th: Jake- JAKE BROOOOO I had literally no idea that you were going home and I was PISSED as HELL that you left. I genuinely wantedthe 4 of us to be at the end together but Duncan went and fucked all of that up. I'm so sorry for not seeing that coming and stopping it. I really do appreciate you and your game though Jake.    You were one of THE most loyal individuals this game has and you showed that time and time again you were trustworthy. I'm aware that sometimes I failed to do that and play as respectfully as you did but in the end I was loyal to you 10000% percent. Even though I was blindsided with RJ gone I still trusted you and knew that you wouldn't turn on me. All bitterness was absent from me but yk who (Duncan) took it upon himself to be SELFISH and maybe bitter and take you out. And in that moment even I, Tim, was blindsided. Not only was my game blindsided by who I thought was my closest ally but also my heart. Once you left I couldn't even see a path towards the end anymore and I felt completely lost and ready to  get voted out but I knew that I had to keep fighting. Fighting for myself, fighting for you, fighting for all the little kids at your camp and fighting because.. fighting was all you ever did in the game, and boy were you quite the fighter and underdog. I hope that I can see you again Jake and play another game in the future with you maybe. I love you bro and I miss you in the game and at camp :'-).

5th: Lily- LILY you are one of my absolute favorite people that I've met in this game. Even though my game wasnt the most truthful and trustworthy, everything I ever told you was genuine. Every time I told you that I loved you was real. Every meme, from the heart. Even the cute Final 2 image I made still makes me smile inside today :-). I LOVED getting to know you and talking to you every day at the first part of merge and after Tee left you and Matt were like my absolute favvvvvvvorite people to talk to because you both were so welcoming and warm and just genuinely kind and inviting. I want you to know Lily that although we weren't able to hold up our final 2 and make it a reality, every single thing I said in that last moment and every second of me talking to you and wanting to make a move was real. I would never waste your time like that and make you hurt even more than what was already to come and anyone who would is disgusting and sick. I wished that we could have made something shake but I hope that you forgive me for playing with deciet and untruthfully. You're one of the last people I wanted to hurt and I'm sorry if I ever did and I understand if you never forgive me. I hope to talk to you after the game and still attend your wedding as Olaf if I'm still invited lol.

[thedenfantasyleague]

The Den Fantasy League Weekly Recap: Championship and Season Recap

Fellas,

We’ve finally made it to the end of the road and what a season it has been. Throughout the season we were treated to the expected and unexpected, let’s get to it.

Championship: Team Timshel v. Wilmore Cinderella

As the season went on, these were two teams we couldn’t really get a read on, yet we found them in the championship game. For JP, the week started off in the worst way. Jameis reverted back to his old ways with a 4 INT game and he also had bad games from Carson, Sutton, and OJ that didn’t help his fight. He was able to bounce back with big games from Lindsay, Thomas, and Washington but it just wasn’t enough to slow down Mike’s massive week. Mike, who pulled off the upset last week against Jane, pulled together some big weeks at the right time. Despite Dak’s disappointing 11 points, Mike was able to finalize his championship run with great play from Gurley (16.8), Melvin (16.7), AJ (14.3) NYJ D (13), and a massive game from Andrews (21.3). The hard part was that JP had guys on the bench that could have secured the win but it looks like the clock struck midnight on Cinderella and Mike’s season ends in triumph.

2019 Season Recaps

Champion: Team Timshel

Mike’s season was always right in the middle of the road. As he has been quick to point out, Mike has never had a losing season in our league’s brief history. Despite sitting in the middle of the road, he was able to surge at the right time. Mike was chastised for his first-round pick in Gurley, someone who exploded in the championship game. He then selected Melvin who also went off in the big game. Mike’s early success could be attributed to Dak’s excellent season start and then supplemented by Tannehill’s resurgence. Mike’s team peaked at the right time and he was a great GM throughout the season. Best Pick: AJ Brown, 16th Round Worst Pick: AJ Green, 3rd Round

Wilmore Cinderella

Speaking of a resurgence, last year’s Cabana Boy started off the season on a low note. He went from serving drinks in a “tux” to drafting a 2nd place team. JP’s team, who started off 2-5, was looking like his championship two years ago was a fluke. He was able to make his comeback and secure a spot in the playoffs. JP’s first-round pick was able to set league records and basically carry his team. He was able to overcome his second-round pick in James Conner and ship him off to Gabe’s team and flip him for Carson who helped carry him into the championship game. Unfortunately, he was banged up in JP’s final game. JP’s comeback was a good one but just not enough. Best Pick: Michael Thomas, 1st Round Worst Pick: James Conner, 2nd Round // Cam Newton, 8th Round

Debbie Rowe

Would it be mean to put the Reggie Miller choke gif in? Jake, who set himself apart as one of the top two teams in the league early on, was a force to be reckoned with all season long. Led by his #1 pick in CMC, Jake saw his MVP-like season lead the team in their pursuit of a championship. It’s truly difficult to find a soft-spot on Jake’s team but they just fell apart in the semi-finals when Saints D and Jack Doyle couldn’t get it done on MNF. The team I couldn’t see losing lost. You hate to see it. Best Pick: Christian McCaffrey, 1st Round /// Deshaun Watson, 7th Round Worst Pick: Tarik Cohen, 6th Round

Mixon It Up

Classic Rob, am I right? Rob was able to make it into the quarterfinals despite one of the biggest cold streaks in league history. Rob hit five straight weeks of not surpassing 70 points, luckily getting a win in one of those weeks. (More on that in a bit) It’s hard to establish the alpha on Rob’s team this year. Brady came in hot but mellowed out to the point that Rob had a QB controversy with Rodgers. He was able to find some hope in his acquisition of Mixon but was let down by his first-round pick in Alvin. Best Pick: Kerryon Johnson, 2nd Round Worst Pick: Alvin Kamara, 1st Round

El Commish

I, for one, had zero confidence in my team and I was just happy to be in the playoffs. I’ll admit, my team was up and down all season and I barely snuck in. What I didn’t doubt was that my team could put up points. I was one of the leaders in points for and that didn’t always help translate into the win column. I’m grateful for my guys like Kelce, Juuls, and Henry but just couldn’t find a consistent lineup outside of those guys. I’m down with Falcons forever. FOREVER. Best Pick: Derrick Henry, 3rd Round Worst Pick: Matt Ryan, 7th Round

Hank Mardukas

Another team I thought couldn’t lose, lost. Scott’s team seemed like a team of destiny. Scott finished the regular season with three losses and had the potential league MVP in Lamar Jackson on his team. Add in Dalvin and the rookie Jacobs, Scott’s backfield was one of, if not the, best in the league. Scott’s team was so good had this bench was impeccable. Unfortunately for him, his team ran out of gas in the first round of the playoffs with a big loss to the 2nd place team. Best Pick: Lamar Jackson, 11th Round Worst Pick: Derrius Guice, 5th Round

Kalabar’s Revenge

The warlock himself. G’s team came under some controversy early with his Kurses of Gabe aka Mr. Magorium. Despite his ups and downs, he was able to weasel his way into the playoffs. G started off hot in week one with a big connection in Mahomes and Watkins, something that never repeated itself. Mahomes’s injury hurt him in the long run and he just never really found a good rhythm with anyone else in his lineup despite a few trades. Can G finally overcome his own Kurse of never winning it all next season? Best Pick: George Kittle, 4th Round Worst Pick: Le’Veon Bell, 1st Round

Professor Remus Lupin

Speaking of Kurses, Gabe relinquished control of his squad to Professor Lupin to fight the dark arts. After starting out 0-3, he quickly rattled off five straight, only to lose his next three. Gabe was able to finish out the season on two wins to secure his playoff spot. The turnaround and the fight against the Kurses got Gabe into the playoffs. Gabe’s team couldn’t ever really find an identity and he himself came to qualms with the Browns’ coaching staff and how they handled Gabe’s star player. Best Pick: Nick Chubb, 2nd Round Worst Pick: Robert Woods, 4th Round

VP

Oh, Vinny. A team that the league had little belief in knew he was a second-half team. Vinny was able to rattle off some big wins down the stretch but unfortunately, his team came up just short against Rob that would’ve helped propel him into the playoffs. Vinny found himself just outside the playoff race. Vinny won our trade and survived the Brees's absence but was not able to secure his spot in the playoffs. Best Pick: Austin Hooper, 9th Round Worst Pick: Antonio Brown, 2nd Round

Stick With Us PVO

Dylan’s team in an enigma. A team that started off hot at 3-1 quickly fell apart finishing the season 2-7 totaling 5-8. Like Vinny, Dylan needed just another win to secure his victory but fell just short. Dylan’s season hit a rough patch when the #1 overall pick and his star RB Saquon had some ankle troubles. Dylan couldn’t figure it out and, despite PVOs, found himself outside the playoffs once again. Best Pick: Russell Wilson, 12th Round Worst Pick: Saquon Barkley, 1st Round (the right pick, just bad luck)

The Perfect Ten

E found himself in a fight to avoid the Cabana Boy spot. His playoff chances were diminished as the season went on and found himself fighting to stay out of the bottom of the barrel. The two-time champ’s squad could never put it together. Ekeler played well despite Melvin coming back, Tyreek got hurt early but performed when he recovered, and Kyler provided a somewhat consistent starter at QB. His disappointment was clearly OBJ. E won when it mattered most and avoided a plummet like one of his fellow champs. Best Pick: Mark Ingram II, 3rd Round Worst Pick: OBJ, 2nd Round

Cabana Boy: Minmaxers

Well, look who we have here. Good ole Al Nesta did everything he could to avoid being Cabana Boy. When teams started to clinch their safety, it looked like Al being Cabana Boy was a guarantee. However, he continued to fight until the very end. Despite starting off 1-7, he was able to win 3 out of 4 but lost in the final week when it mattered most. Al will now take on the role of CB for the 2020 season. Best Pick: Frank Gore, 16th Round Worst Pick: Brandin Cooks, 4th Round (Cooper was there)

Final Payout:

Champion: Team Timshel, $261 2nd Place: Wilmore Cinderella, $69 Regular Season Winner: Debbie Rowe, $30

Jake, pay these fellas. 

It was an honor to play alongside you fellas for our fourth season. Cheers to this year and to many more.

Your Beloved Commissioner,

Jared R. Mosqueda

[chuffyfan87]

Growing Pains. Part 13b

"What shall we do now? It's just you and me this morning."

“I don’t know, what would you like to do?”

"What's something you like to do? We don't get much time just us these days. I'm game for practically anything so long as I don't need to use my left hand."

“Can we just go for a walk? And talk? Sit in the park, it’s a nice day.”

"Sure. Lead the way." She smiled.

Jake and Duffy went for a walk, going to the park.

"Its been such a long time since I last just walked around this park." Duffy smiled.

“We should do it more often.”

"We should. How are things at college?"

“They’re ok.”

"Have you had any further thoughts about what you want to do after you finish college in a couple of months?"

He shook his head, “No idea. I think I’m going to get a job somewhere and save up to go travelling.”

"OK. Sounds like quite an adventure."

“I think it would be nice.”

"Would you go on your own?"

“I’d like Krystal to come with me but I think she has her own plans for the future.”

"What are her plans?"

“To get an apprenticeship.”

"Oh wow! What's she thinking of apprenticing in?"

“Piercing and tattooing.”

"Um... OK..." Duffy forced a smile.

“I know you don’t really approve of her but she’s great.”

"She's... Just not what I expected that's all. But if she makes you happy that's the most important thing."

“She’s unique. Definitely unique.” He laughed gently.

"At what point are we going to get to meet her family?" Duffy enquired.

“You want to meet her family?”

"Well it would be nice to."

“Maybe I can ask Krystal.”

"OK. If you're serious about her then it would be nice for us all to meet. That's all."

“I am serious about her.”

"That's good. I'm glad you've found someone special."

“She’s special.” He smiled brightly. “I was scared for a while.”

"What of?"

“That I’d be like Andrew and hurt her.”

"Oh sweetheart! You'll never be like him. You're a million times the man he ever could be." She squeezed his shoulder.

He smiled, “That’s because of dad. He has his faults but he’s a good dad.” He was referring to Charlie of course.

"He is." She smiled. "I do wish he was your father." She admitted.

“He is. You don’t need to be blood to be related.”

"But if you were we wouldn't have to go through all of this." She sighed, sitting down on a nearby bench.

He sat down next to her, “You loved him though. And you were scared, still are.”

"Which must make me look really weak and pathetic. The man sat in that room today wasn't the man I fell for when I first met him. He changed."

“No mum, it doesn’t. The only person who is weak and pathetic is him. Not you. When did it start?”

"The violence?"

“All of it.”

"He was so charming when we first met. The suave sophisticated doctor. Such a cliché I know." She chuckled.

“It really annoys me that even after all this time, he still has such an effect on you.”

"Too much exposure for too long." She sighed.

He moved closer to his mum. “You know at Christmas, when he came round and starting shouting the odds? When me and Peter punched him?”

"How could I forget.?!" She remarked, her eyebrow raised.

“I remember when I was younger and how dad used to always protect us by telling us to go and play in another room.”

"I had hoped you'd been too young to remember that." She sighed.

“Just like he did with Oli and Paul that Christmas.”

"Peter told me that he hid you under the bed several times when you were a toddler too."

“He did?”

"When the shouting got so loud that he could hear upstairs." She whispered.

Jake kissed his mum’s cheek. “I never understand why you’d want to hurt the person you love.”

"Maybe he never loved me. Not really." She sighed.

“Not the way dad does anyway.”

"I think you're right about that." Her expression brightened slightly.

“It’s kinda cute.”

"So I'm told." She chuckled. "I think I'm getting a little old too old to be considered cute anymore though."

“Nuh huh, you and dad are cute together. Especially when I catch him just staring at you with that look in his eye.”

"You mean the expression that makes him look a little bit gormless?" She giggled.

“Yeah that one.”

"He's always had that look about him as long as I've known him!"

“The look of love?”

"If that's what you want to call it."

Jake laughed gently. “Fancy a coffee?”

"You buying?" She chuckled.

“Yeah.”

"Then I'd love one thanks."

“Come on then.”

They headed towards a local cafe but just as they were about to enter Duffy tugged on Jake's arm and pointed to a couple stood on the street corner further up the road kissing. "That's Sarah!" She gasped. "But that's certainly not Peter with her!" She frowned, “Is that AJ?”

Jake hesitated.

"Is that AJ?" She asked again, shooting her son a glare.

“Yes.”

Duffy moved to confront Sarah, her face distorted with anger.

“Mum,” Jake tried to stop her.

"Sarah! Fancy seeing you here." Duffy declared as she drew nearer, a fake smile now painted on her face.

“Hi,” Sarah smiled as she moved her hand from AJ.

"I don't think we've been introduced." Duffy added, turning towards AJ.

“I’m AJ.” He introduced himself.

"Nice to meet you AJ, I'm Lisa. I've known Sarah since she was a teenager. I see congratulations are in order for both of you."

Jake winced at the sickly sweet tone to his mum's voice. This wasn't going to end well...

“Thanks, it wasn’t planned but what we both want, isn’t it Sarah?” AJ pulled her closer by her waist.

“Um...” Sarah swallowed.

"Children are a wonderful blessing." Duffy smiled. "When's the baby due?" She added.

“Um, AJ why don’t you go and grab me a drink? I’ll catch you up shortly?”

"Um... OK..." AJ replied before heading into the shop.

“It’s not what you think...” Sarah began.

"Really?" Duffy retorted sarcastically.

“Yes!”

"So what do you think I think this looks like?"

“That I’m stringing Peter along, which I’m not!”

"So why does AJ think that's his baby?"

“He knows there’s a possibility it isn’t his.”

"That's not what you told Peter."

“You’ve got no idea, ok?” Sarah began to get agitated.

"Oh I have every idea. You're lying to my son!" Duffy retorted, her voice beginning to raise in volume.

“I’m not!”

"You told him that you're carrying his baby!"

“I couldn’t tell him the truth.”

"He deserves the truth! You have turned his life upside down!"

Sarah shook her head frantically, “It’s not like that!!” She began, becoming more and more panicked.

"What is it like?!" Duffy pressed.

"Mum..!" Jake attempted to intercede.

Sarah swallowed, her breathing becoming heavier. “Leave it, please!” She begged.

"You have been determined to get your clutches into my boy for years. You've messed his head up so much! I can never forgive that!"

“I don’t know which one of them is the dad!” Sarah blurted out before she moved slightly to throw up.

Duffy immediately snapped into nurse mode. "Sarah? Are you in pain?" She asked, moving to check on the younger woman.

Sarah ignored the question and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. “I never meant to hurt anyone...” She said sadly.

"I know." Duffy sighed. "We need to get you checked over if you're not feeling well."

“I’m fine.” Sarah replied weakly but stumbled as she tried to walk away.

"Nope, we're going to the hospital. Jake can you get my car?" Duffy asked, throwing the keys at her son.

Jake caught the keys, “Yes mum! Won’t be long.” He called.

“I’m fine,” Sarah protested.

"Its better to be on the safe side. Do you have any pains?"

“I don’t want to go to the hospital.”

"You need to be checked over. How many weeks are you?"

“Twenty four weeks and four days. I’m fine, I don’t need to be checked over.”

Duffy saw Jake jerk her car to a stop beside them, narrowly avoiding hitting the kerb. "At least sit in the car so I can check you over properly?"

Sarah reluctantly agreed.

Once Sarah was sat on the back seat of the car Duffy ducked in beside her and began to press her hands against Sarah's bump, checking the position of the baby.

Sarah bit hard on her lower lip, it really hurt!

[chuffyfan87]

Growing Pains. Part 11b (NSFW)

"That's good to know. Because it's not a problem."

“If she’s gay, she’s gay.” Lottie shrugged.

"Exactly. So do you have any more questions of a personal nature to ask?" Duffy smiled.

“No.”

"I'm glad that you feel able to talk to me about these things."

“About boys and stuff?”

"About anything that's worrying you. I know you're growing up but I want you to know that you can always talk to me if you need to."

“I know mum, thanks.”

"Now can I ask you a question?"

“Sure.”

"Where are you going with those biscuits I just saw you sneak into your pocket?" Duffy giggled.

“Upstairs to Tilly.” Lottie giggled.

"You know you're not supposed to eat in your bedroom." Duffy replied shaking her head fondly at the teenager.

“I know, but Tilly won’t move her arse to come down.”

"Leave that to me." Duffy giggled. She walked into the hallway and leant around the bottom of the stairs. "Matilda Fairhead get yourself down here now!" She yelled, shooting Lottie a wink.

Tilly groaned and got up off the bed and wandered to the top of the stairs, ”I ain’t done nothing!”

"I'd like a word with you Tilly."

Tilly pouted and came downstairs, “Yes mum?”

"Eat your biscuits downstairs and don't annoy your sister OK?"

Tilly shrugged, “That friend of hers has got a proper attitude.”

"How about we all sit down together and have a chat?" Duffy suggested.

Tilly shrugged.

Duffy called Emily and Beth to come downstairs to join herself and the twins to have a drink and some biscuits. Duffy decided to seize the chance whilst Charlie was at the park with the younger boys and Jake and Krystal were in town.

Beth and Tilly exchanged looks over the table.

"I thought it would be nice for us girls to all get to know each other." Duffy smiled encouragingly.

Emily nodded, “OK.”

"Who wants to start?"

“I will.” Said Lottie quietly.

"OK Lottiepop." Duffy smiled.

There was a silence for a minute, “What shall I say?” Lottie asked with a giggle.

"Anything, what would you like to tell Beth about yourself?"

Lottie shrugged, “I’m Tilly’s twin but I’m not childish.”

Duffy sighed and rubbed the skin between her eyebrows. This might be trickier than she thought.

“Tilly and I are different, even though we look the same. I’m quieter, she’s-“ Lottie pointed to Tilly, “gob on legs.”

"Oi!" Tilly retorted.

“I’m just saying.”

"How do you put up with this every day?" Beth asked Emily as she watched the twins squabble.

“You get used to it.” Emily replied with a giggle.

"It must be quite a difference for you compared to home." Duffy smiled at Beth.

“It’s heck of a lot noisy.” Beth replied with a smile.

"So what are your favourite things to do Beth?" Duffy asked, shooting the twins a look to pack it in.

“I like to draw,” Beth replied, “And play netball.”

"Oh I was terrible at netball at school." Duffy chuckled.

“I like football too.”

"Peter and Jake play football." Tilly remarked.

“Do they? Maybe we can all have a kick around one day.”

"Yeh, I'm sure they'd both enjoy that." Duffy smiled.

Tilly was fidgeting in her chair, a clear sign that there was something she wanted to ask.

Duffy looked at her daughter and smiled, “Go on Tilly. I’m sure you’re dying to ask something.”

"Nuh uh, Beth yelled at me last time!" Tilly pouted.

“You’re fidgeting.” Duffy pointed out.

"Only if she promises not to yell."

“Fine. I promise.”

"Are yous twos lesbos?" Tilly asked.

Duffy put her head in her hands. "I taught you better English than that!" She sighed.

Emily sighed, “I think so. I dunno. I like boys too.”

"See! I told ya!" Lottie crowed at Tilly.

Tilly shrugged, “So you’re bi-something?”

"Bisexual is the word you're looking for Tilly." Duffy explained.

“That’s it! Bisexual!” Lottie giggled, “We learnt about that in sex ed.”

"I'm glad to hear you've been listening in those lessons." Duffy smiled.

“Tilly don’t pay attention. She’s too busy drooling over Tommy’s dick.” Lottie laughed loudly. “She wishes anyway!”

"Lottie!" Tilly sulked. "At least he don't have a tiny knob like Lewis does!" She shot back.

“Shut up!” They began to bicker again.

"Girls!" Duffy sighed. She turned to Beth. "They talk a good talk but most of it is nonsense. At least I hope it is." She grimaced.

“Probably!”

"You ok?" Duffy asked Emily, reaching across the table to squeeze her daughter's hand.

Emily nodded, “Yes mama.”

"Have you spoken to your older brothers about all this? Coz I don't think the twins will keep their mouths shut for long..."

“Not yet. I don’t really know what to say. Does dad know I’m... you know?”

"Yes he does. Maybe talk to them one at a time? I think Peter has some news of his own for you all too."

Emily frowned softly, “He does?”

"Sarah's knocked up!" Tilly blurted out.

“What’s that got to do with us?” Emily asked, “Sarah and Peter haven’t been together for years.”

"Its Peter's!" Lottie added before Duffy had chance to stop her.

"That can't be right. Jake said that Sarah is dating Zeke's big brother AJ..." Emily replied, her brows knitted in confusion.

“It seems she’s been having sex with both.” Lottie replied.

“Then how can she know who’s the dad?” Emily asked, her brows still knitted in confusion.

"I'm not sure this is an appropriate conversation..." Duffy interrupted, shocked as she hadn't been aware of that detail.

"Sex with two blokes at the same time... That's a bit of a slaggy thing to do..." Tilly mused, not considering how her comment could be construed.

“Tilly! Shut up!” Emily snapped, “You have no idea, do you?! She’s not a slag for having sex with two men! It happens sometimes. A man can sleep with as many women as he wants and he’s not called a slag, is he?!”

"Sez the lesbian!" Tilly fired back.

Lottie couldn't help noticing that their mum had gone awful quiet and pale.

Emily stood up, “Words hurt Tilly! You should be careful what you say and how it can be construed to people around the table!”

"What the hell you on about?" Tilly asked, genuinely baffled.

“You really don’t know, do you?”

"Know what?" Tilly asked, looking at Lottie who just shrugged in return, equally in the dark.

Duffy got up and walked out the room. She couldn't listen any more.

“Mum and dad were married to other people, they had... an affair.” Emily said quietly, “So does that make mum a slag?!”

"Nah, they broke up, got married to other people and then got back together after they split up with those people... Right?!" Tilly replied, her voice getting increasingly uncertain.

“No they didn’t.”

"How do you know?!" Lottie demanded.

Beth slipped out of the room to follow Duffy whilst Emily dealt with her sisters.

“You alright?” Beth asked as she sat next to Duffy.

“I asked mum, once. Cos of things Louis was saying.” Emily admitted.

"I'm fine." Duffy replied reflexively from where she sat on the bottom of the stairs.

"Louis chats shit." Tilly shrugged.

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah but this time he weren’t!!”

"My own daughter thinks I'm a slag - yeh I'm just great!"

"What did he say?"

“Tilly doesn’t mean that,” Beth reassured.

“That mum and dad were seeing each other behind his mum’s back!”

"She's right though." Duffy sighed.

"Fuck!" Lottie gasped. "It all makes sense now..!"

“No, she isn’t.”

Duffy didn't speak for a few moments as she stared at the floor. "You must be wondering what the hell kinda family you've gotten yourself involved with..."

“No, not at all. I know life isn’t always easy or simple.”

"That was not what I was expecting to happen when I invited everyone downstairs."

“I know.” Beth smiled sadly.

"I'm sorry the girls were rude to you. They should know better than that so I'll be having words with them."

“They weren’t. They’re just outspoken.” Beth smiled, “Curious.”

"That's one word for it!" Duffy snorted.

“They don’t mean any harm. They just don’t always think.”

"No they don't." Duffy pushed herself to her feet. "I best go make sure they haven't all killed each other." "

When Duffy returned to the kitchen, all three girls were quiet.

"Dare I ask..?" Duffy began.

“You and dad had an affair?” Lottie asked.

"Yes."

“Ok.”

“I shouldn’t have said what I said. Sorry mama.” Tilly looked up at her mum.

"Its ok. I know you didn't mean it the way it came out. You just need to think before you speak in future Tots."

Tilly nodded, “I’ll try harder.” She got up and hugged her mum tightly.

"Trying is all you can do." Duffy smiled.

Lottie and Emily both ended up hugging their mum.

[chuffyfan87]

Growing Pains. Part 15c (NSFW)

Peter closed the door a little, “Holly’s really worried.”

"What about?"

“About mum, how ill she looks.” Peter sighed sadly, “Are you ok dad?”

"I'm fine. We've just got to get your mum through this latest relapse, that's what's most important right now."

“Why has she relapsed?” Peter asked.

"I honestly don't know." Charlie sighed, rubbing at the back of his neck.

“How can me and Holly help dad?”

"Just support and encourage her. That's all any of us can do."

Peter nodded sadly, “I’ll do whatever I can dad. For both of you." He paused." Is Sarah still here?"

"She's out at the moment with your mum but she's still staying here and will be back soon. Is that a problem?"

“Its a bit awkward.” Peter replied, “It’s like one of your exes just rocking up and living here.”

"I know, I know. It was your mum's idea coz she was concerned about Sarah's living arrangements."

Peter frowned, “What are her living arrangements?”

"She was pretty much sofa surfing."

“Oh...” Peter sighed, “She needs to be safe, especially now she’s pregnant.”

"Now do you see why your mum insisted she stay here?" Charlie asked gently.

“Yes but...” Peter sighed. “I’m allowed to be angry about being lied to, aren’t I?”

"Of course you are. You should have seen your mum the evening after she found out..!"

“Let me guess, she went ballistic?”

"She has a tendency to forget that you're a grown man now." Charlie chuckled.

Peter laughed gently, “Holly and I talked about our future last night.”

"Oh?" Charlie visibly brightened.

“I’m going to start looking at houses, so we can move in together.”

"So soon?"

“I want to find a house that Holly and I can raise a family in. In the future.”

"Just don't rush into anything son. Holly is a lovely girl but I don't want to see you get hurt again."

“I’ll try not to rush into anything.” Peter hesitated before continuing. “I... I lied to Holly last night.” He looked down at the floor.

"What about?"

“She asked me how I felt about finding out I wasn’t the dad. I told her I was relieved but that wasn’t entirely true.” Peter mumbled.

"Its understandable to have mixed feelings. I went through the whole spectrum of emotions over you." Charlie admitted.

“I was just getting used to the idea of being a dad. I brought something for it, for her.” Peter sighed. “You did?”

"Even though I knew I was already a dad by that point I felt so conflicted over everything." Charlie paused. "You could still be a part of her life if you wanted to be. If this family shows you anything it's that it doesn't take blood to be family."

“Yeah because that’s not gonna mess with Sarah’s head at all, is it?” Peter rose an eyebrow. “It wouldn’t be fair on her.”

"She wanted so desperately for you to be her baby's father." Charlie shared.

“I know.”

"Maybe you, Sarah and Holly should sit down together and talk?"

“Talk about what?”

"What happens now going forward."

“I move on with Holly. Sarah moves on with her daughter.” Peter replied.

"OK. If that's what you both want..."

“It wouldn’t be fair on Holly or Sarah if I became part of that baby’s life.” Peter pointed out, “Nor would it be fair on the baby either.”

"I totally agree. I just wanted to make sure you'd thought it all through properly."

“I have dad, you don’t need to worry.” Peter smiled.

"I'm your dad, it's my job!" Charlie chuckled.

Peter was about to say something else when the front door opened and Sarah and Duffy arrived back.

They were chatting and giggling excitedly, both laden with several shopping bags.

Peter stepped into the hallway, an awkwardness instantly apparent between him and Sarah.

"Peter! I didn't know you were coming round." Duffy grinned.

“Hi mum. I came to see if you were ok.”

"I'm fine. Why wouldn't I be?" As Duffy placed the bags down it became instantly apparent the kind of shopping she and Sarah had spent the morning indulging in...

“Because you’re ill?” Peter looked at the shopping bags.

"Who told you that?" Duffy replied dismissively.

The bags were filled with various items of clothing and other equipment.

“I don’t need to be told, I can see it when I look at you.” Peter answered back.

"You worry too much Peter." Duffy rolled her eyes. She turned to Sarah. "No you don't! I'll take those upstairs. You go have a sit down."

Peter sighed, “You’re stubborn.” He replied to his mum.

"And you're fast turning into your father!"

“Good. Have you thought about going back to treatment?” Peter asked.

"I have an appointment booked for tomorrow actually." Duffy retorted, picking up the bags and heading towards the stairs.

“I only worry about you! We all do!”

Sarah remained stood in the hallway, “Hi.” She said quietly to Peter.

Duffy harumphed as she walked up the stairs.

"Hi." Peter replied, his gaze still on the stairs.

"I'm going to check on the boys..." Charlie uttered, heading to the stairs.

“Are you okay?” Sarah asked as she moved closer to Peter.

"Yeh... Holly is here." He replied pointedly.

“Ok.”

Peter pushed his hands into his pockets. He couldn't believe how awkward he now felt around someone he once loved. "How you getting on finding a place to live?"

“Not great,” Sarah shrugged, “I think I’m gonna move back in with AJ. It’s what’s best...”

"Does he treat you right?" Peter wasn't sure why that was important to him but it was.

“Not really but I’m pregnant with nowhere else to go.”

"I'm sorry. For all of this." He sighed.

“It’s not your fault.” Sarah pointed out.

"Still..." He shrugged.

“Your parents have been great.” She smiled, “I’ve been lucky but it’s time for me to stand on my own two feet, wherever that may be.”

"OK. I'm sure mum will still make a point of checking in on you."

“Probably. Your mum cares too much. She’s got a heart of gold.”

"She cares about everyone except herself." He sighed.

“She’s a nurse. You’ll find those that are healthcare professionals are the worst type of people to look after themselves.”

"My parents are a perfect case in point." He smiled slightly.

Sarah nodded, the awkward silence descending over them again.

"I... Erm... I... I bought something for the baby..." Peter admitted, his voice barely a whisper.

“You did? What was it?”

"Its not much. Just a little stuffed toy." He mumbled.

“You didn’t have to Peter but thank you.”

"Its at the flat. I'll drop it round sometime."

“Thank you.”

"Peter are you..? Oh!" Holly stopped just inside the dining room doorway.

Peter turned and nodded. He moved back to Holly and wrapped his arm around her waist, “Mum and Sarah have been shopping.”

"Did someone warn your dad not to check the joint account?" Holly giggled.

“Not yet but I think he knows not to.”

The trio was prevented from further awkwardness when Jake burst through the front door clutching a letter. "Bro!" He grinned as he spotted Peter.

“What bro?” Peter wondered why Jake was grinning like a Cheshire Cat.

"I'm free at last!" Jake declared, holding up the letter.

“You did it?!”

"Yeh. I mean, I know it's only a fortnight til I'm eighteen anyway but I don't care! It's done!"

“Yes!!” Peter fist bumped his brother, “You should go and tell mum! She’ll be made up!”

"Yeh where is she?"

“Upstairs.”

Jake charged up the stairs, nearly flattening his mum as she appeared at the top.

"Woah! Where's the fire?" She gasped.

He jumped up and down with the letter in his hands. “It’s done! We did it!”

"What?" Realisation flooded her face. "You mean..?"

“Yes! Yes!” He wrapped his arms around her, “We did it! We did it mum!!”

"Oh sweetheart, that's wonderful." She couldn't help the tears that began to stream down her cheeks.

Feeling a tear roll onto his shoulder, he frowned. “Mum, what’s wrong?”

"I'm just... I can't believe it's all over."

“All over mum. You won.”

"It was never about winning, it was about doing the best thing for you." She stroked his cheek.

He met his mum’s eye and nodded, “The best thing for us, as a family.”

"I love you Jake." She smiled.

“I love you too, mum.” He kissed her cheek.

"I didn't realise you were home Jake." Charlie smiled as he arrived in the upstairs hallway after coming down from the younger boys' bedroom.

“We’ve done it, dad!” Jake held up the letter.

Charlie attempted to study the letter but it was pointless without his reading glasses on.

“Andrew’s no longer part of our lives!”

"The court granted your request?"

Jake nodded, “Yes! We’ve done it!”

"I'm so pleased for you." Charlie smiled, squeezing the teenager's shoulder.

Jake threw his arms around Charlie, “Love you dad.”

"I love you too son." Charlie reached out to pull Duffy into the hug. "Its turning into quite the month for celebrations." He smiled.