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duchezss · 6 months ago

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I've taken a bit to try and assemble my thoughts of jwct, and frankly I still don't know how to feel. Not in a "oh that was bad" kinda way, but in a "that was life changing how can I move on" kinda way. So I'm gonna do what I do best and just ramble on here, you know me. Spoilers of course.

Overall thoughts:

Holy cow the animation!! Not to say jwcc was ugly, but you can instantly see the budget differences. The lighting was gorgeous and the sequences were great. It was just so clear how much love was poured into every scene, the thought behind every move was so clear.

The story was so engaging and good. I thought I was gonna get tired of the "picking everyone up" trope, but it worked so well. I think the difference is this show knew how to take it's time. Ben and Darius had a few episodes to themselves, then Sammy and Kenji were given time to express their grievances. Hell we didn't even get to Yaz till ep 6 and I loved that. The dinosaurs were great too, and the overall plot was just amazing. I loved how it all slowly enfolded and how it was clear they had only scratched the surface with what they found out.

The voice acting was great as always, but it did kinda make me emotional at first to hear how much Paul had grown up. Getting used to Kenji and Brooklynn's new VA's was kinda odd, especially for Kenji, but by the end I was mostly cool with them.

The characters (and trust I'm gonna talk about all of them individually in a sec) were just superb. Their overall maturity and growth was outstanding, especially seeing how their trauma really effected them all differently. All of their arcs before and throughout the season were simply breathtaking. I think this season might be the best in terms of balance, it handled it's action, humor, and emotional moments so well.

This kinda relates back to the animation, I can't explain it, but they all just felt so much more human this season. Everyone's body language was so fluid and lifelike. They would talk over each other and mumble, they would hunch and roll their eyes and all of this sounds normal, but it really stood out. I think it's safe to say the animators really popped off this season, the direction was so clear this is truly a masterpiece. Also I felt like all of them were so touchy and I loved that so much. Like yes hug, hold hands, grab shoulders, pat on the back, I LOVE.

Characters:

Darius, my god Darius. Of course I've always loved him, he's an amazing mc and he is just so lovable. That being said I generally couldn't get over how much I loved him this season. He blew me away in ways I couldn't have imagined. His grief is so understandable and the way he shifted his ideology on dinosaurs because of Brooklynn was just heartbreaking. The way his character was handled was amazing, and it was wonderful to see that the writers do know how to let the others shine while still showcasing that he is the mc. I was also so in love with how sassy and witty he was, like when did he become so funny? His vulnerable moments were just as good and I loved how they showed his anger and frustration as well. His arc about learning to accept his grief and his regret was so poignant and beautiful. It's clear he needs a shoulder to cry on and yet he still puts everyone first, god I didn't think I could love him this much. He was easily the best character this season, I feel like they FINALLY showcased how amazing he is, just 10/10 no notes they ate.

I was kinda shocked by how goofy Ben was, but man I'd be lying if I said I didn't love it. Still can't get over how tall he is, and while I hated his design at first, it's really grown on me now. I really don't get how a lot of people are saying he felt like a shell of himself, cause frankly this season just cemented him as one of my favorite characters ever. He was kind, caring, understanding, humorous, he cracked jokes and messed around, but also got emotional and real. Him being a conspiracy theorist and living out of a van just makes sense, and the way he's the opposite of his germaphobe self now is hilarious. It was also interesting to see him as the meditator since he was the only one that got along with everyone else. He tried to help Darius with Kenji, he tried to give advice to Yaz about Sammy. It was just so lovely to see him so content and yet still himself? His scenes with Bumpy were so sweet and sad I can't stand them. Also I'm kinda obsessed with the fact that he's so big yet sucks at fighting and defending himself...king. I loved his mini arc about almost regressing on his fear, and how he grew from that. Ben ily light of my life, still the goat I fear.

Sammy's whole story just felt so heartbreaking. When they found her on the farm all alone it hurt me so bad. The way her family was her whole world and now they aren't on speaking terms? I hope the writers explain a bit cause I just can't fathom why? And Yaz moved away and she was really all alone. The way she approached her grief and her whole life in denial, and how she refused to accept anything was so heartbreaking. It hurt even worse because despite all of that pain she was still her. She was headstrong, kind, and passionate, for people and for dinosaurs. I did love how they still showcased her flaws and weaknesses. She had a hard time treating Yaz differently, but she also just wanted someone to actually be there for her. It's so clear she's tired and wants to be the one taken care of for once. Sammy stories feels heart wrenching in perhaps a more subtle way than the others. I really loved the direction the writers took her in this season. They showcased so much good and left us wanted more and ugh someone just give her another hug please.

If there's one thing the writers can be consistent on is making me despise Kenji. He was annoying me at first because of how he was approaching things, but he really grew on me by the end. He was this season’s punching bag and it was so heartbreaking. Brooklynn died and he blamed Darius and it's like he couldn’t escape his anger. It's interesting to see how him and Darius secluded themselves in different ways, and the way he still calls their mom? Oh I'm gonna cry. Yes Kenji is mad and he has every right to be, but it's clear his anger is misplaced. The whole scene with his father was so sad for so many reasons. Yes Kenji didn't like his father, but he literally watched him die. His breakdown was so painful to watch. I like how we can see Kenji kinda mature again over the season. It's as if he's relearning that not everything is in his control, and he shouldn't dwell on that. Sometimes his VA sounded too uninterested or nonchalant, which is a shame because the thing about Kenji is he pretends not to care but it's really the opposite. I am intrigued to see where this show will take his journey.

We took a while to get to Yaz, but I'd say it was worth the wait. I liked how this series didn't shy away from talking about her ptsd, and it took it even a step further by exploring peoples ways of coping. It's also interesting to see how fear has driven Yaz and how that has effected her relationships with all of them, but particularly Sammy. She's trying so hard to do better, but healing isn't linear and building a glass house around yourself can only do so much. I really hope they'll let us see how all of this is effecting her next season, because for someone is deathly afraid of dinosaurs this season put her through the ringer. That being said, I think there's no denying the bravery she showed. No matter how terrified she was she was always there for her friends. When Sammy needed her she knew how to calm her down, when her friends needed her help she let her instincts drive her. She even learned to let herself enjoy the moment, adding humor to trying to make the best of things. I feel for Yaz and I want to see her find comfort in her friends again, because she also just needs a hug.

Character: five stage of grief

While writing this I stopped and realized that in a way all of them really represented the five stages of grief regarding Brooklynn and just their life in general. So I wanted to take an interlude to talk about that for a moment.

Denial: Sammy - It's clear that Sammy has been trying to deny anything and everything, if only to pretend all of her problems are nonexistent. She doesn't want to believe that her family won't talk to her, and that Yaz won't either, and that her friend is just gone. Denying makes it all of it easier and so she makes herself busy so she won't even have a second to think about it all because then maybe she'd have to accept it.

Anger: Kenji - He's blaming everyone, especially Darius for Brooklynn's death. He blames the Allosaurus and he blames his father and through it all his anger never dwindles. Eventually it's all too much and he lets his anger become sadness, but it's clear his frustration and aggravation are not exactly gone. He can forgive but still feel mad at his situation and I think that's ok.

Bargaining: Yaz - Her's almost borderlines on denial like Sammy, but I think it's a little different. Because unlike Sammy she thinks everything is ok. She's convinced herself that this dino free island is fool proof and if she hides away like this nothing bad could ever happen. Obviously she comes to find out this isn't true and she has to accept the fact that her reassuring herself can only do so much. She has to face her fears, and boy does she.

Depression: Darius - From the get go we knew Darius wasn't doing too good. He's locked himself away in his bunker, cut off everyone, and had just become obsessed with catching the Allosaurus. Loosing Brooklynn was hard on all of them, but it's clear he took it the worst. It also didn't help that Kenji blamed him so much, so he fell into this hole. It's not the typical signs of depression, but his behavior is so different than before. Old Darius would have never cut everyone off and reduced dinosaurs to simple killers.

Acceptance: Ben - He's perhaps the only one that can speak so plainly about Brooklynns death. He constantly reassures Darius that it wasn't his fault and he's the one that rallies all of them together. His acceptance of her death is what allows him to put the pieces together that someone is after them. Of course he still mourns her, but the difference is he wants to get her justice and make sure all of them are safe as well.

Relationships:

To get the elephant out of the room THANK GOD brookenji broke up. I know they have a lot of shooters but I have and will never support or understand them. They just didn't work and had like zero chemistry. I really hope they stay broken up please writers I can't take it anymore. That being said I was pleasantly surprised Kenji's whole character wasn't just about Brooklynn. Yes she was a big factor, but without her there it's like he could be his own character again. That was always my biggest gripe with s4-s5 brookenji. I couple should not be reduced to their partners, they need to be their own person too.

Yasammy you will always be famous. The two of them were absolutely wonderful this season. Their fight was so warranted and valid and I loved that both of them were right in some ways. It's never black and white and it's up to communication to resolve those issues. The two of them are just so in love, they are actual soulmates like I can't. No notes, I think their relationship is proof that you can balance a couple and the individual. Sammy has her problems, Yaz has her problems, and together they can be a mess, but that's what so wonderful about it. The scene with them after they got out of the van was generally so beautiful I LOVE THEM.

Darius "I was in love with Brooklynn" Bowman....I USED TO PRAY FOR TIME LIKE THESE?? When I tell you I screamed I mean it so bad, I almost fell out of my chair. I know a lot of people aren't a fan, and they think it reduces their friendship, but I disagree. I think Darius still would've been heartbroken, but this just adds a layer. I also love it cause it's just so messy, and I think that makes it feel more real. What do you do if you love your brothers ex? I have been a dinostar defender for years, and I think there's no deny how much they mean to each other. I know he said Brooklynn didn't replicate his feelings but until we see the scene I'm gonna deny that. I think she rejected him because she didn't want him to get hurt in her investigation, that or she doesn't want to hurt Kenji. Let me just say writers you have a chance to get this all back on track PLEASEEEEE do not mess it up I can't take the heartbreak again.

Ben and Darius' friendship was kinda the best thing ever and I wasn't expecting it at all? I know they've had a rocky relationship before but this was so playful and I loved it so much. The way they goofed around and got into trouble, the show couldn't handle them together all season I guess. I also love how tender it was. Ben was so patient with Darius and it was clear he only wanted the best for him. Darius was just as patient with Ben and he helped him through his little paranoia relapse. They were such a good time and a blast to watch like the amount of times the two of them had me busting out laughing was insane.

Sammy and Ben duo oh how I've missed you. Another one I really didn't expect but they were so lovely. I loved how much they messed around yet they also dropped everything to commit a few crimes. Ep five was full of them and I loved it so much. Also the way Sammy constantly defended Ben was so special to me, that girl knew how to throw a punch lmao. Nothing too crazy, but so welcome and sweet. Also the way Ben was terrorizing Sammy on the phone with Yaz, peak cinema.

MIGHT AS WELL KILL ME NOW KENJI AND DARIUS. WHY are they always fighting Kenji don't make me mad. I loved their relationship so much. The way Kenji was so angry at Darius and yet Darius held him so close while he had a breakdown? Might just kms. They friendship is so rocky and real and I love that. I also love how Kenji wasn't angry when Darius said he had feelings for Brooklynn. He just listened and the maturity they both have is insane. I'm terrified of Brooklynn coming back and causing a love triangle, but honestly I'd be fine if they all just stayed friends if that means these two end up alright. When the brothers brother >>>

Ben and Yaz bestfriendism back everyone cheered. The way they still call each other by their last names actually kinda tears me to pieces. I love how Ben offers advice to Yaz even if it's in his own silly way. They're both so gentle and yet so playful with each other I love. I love that Yaz just let's Ben go on his side quests like yeah he's got it. They didn't get that many scenes but I still love them so dearly anyways.

The return of the king, Sammy and Darius. I know they didn't get that much but they were always one of my fav limited screen time duos. The way they constantly comfort each other just pulls on the heartstrings. Like when they just hugged in the back of the van? And when Sammy raced to hug him again in the warehouse? Ohh I love them. And despite it all Darius trying his best to defend Sammy? Save me older sister-younger brother duo save me.

Kenji got very limited time with Sammy and Yaz and I can't wait to see more cause those just iconic duos, I also would love to see more of Darius and Yaz since they also didn't meet till the very end. I really hope S2 (I'm pretending like it's already confirmed) let's us see more of this, especially Kenji and Yaz please I've missed them so much.

Ohhhhh Ben and Kenji. Benji nation we're kinda so back, living off crumbs is better than living off nothing. Ok but in all seriousness their relationship is so sweet. Ben trying to make Kenji see reason in the beginning, then letting Kenji hold Bumpy's egg cause it was clear that's what he needed at the moment. Then Kenji helping Ben when he got hurt. It's clear they speak in actions, not words. I need more of them like actually I've missed my pookies so bad.

Lastly I wanna talk about Yaz, Sammy, and Ben with Brooklynn. Their flashbacks broke my heart, and it also showcased how different their love and grief for her was. THE FACT THAT WE FINALLY GOT B DUO AND IT'S AFTER SHE'S GONE...my heart shattered. I love how funny and chill they were, we were so robbed of this in jwcc I swear. It's also kinda sad because the implication that Ben introduced Brooklynn to dark jurassic which subsequently lead her down the path that got her "killed"...I'm done. Also the fact that they were so casual implies that Brooklynn would constantly visit him at college which is just so sweet? I can't stand them bye. Sammy casually having Brooklynns old jacket tells me Brooklynn used to come over a lot, perhaps more when they were younger. Also Sammy seemed shocked to go in that room so I might be reading into this too much, but I see it as maybe that was Brooklynns guest room at one point? I am also a firm believer that Sammy dyed her hair pink for Brooklynn. Like Ben, everything just felt so casual and therefore more heart aching. Sammy wants to pretend like she could open that door and Brooklynn would just be there, researching and chilling. I think Yaz's flashback with Brooklynn is the saddest. All these years later and Yaz still confides and trusts Brooklynn to help her through her struggles. It's hard to believe they used to fight so much. Brooklynn is so understanding and kind, and I also find it interesting that it appears that Brooklynn was the one that really kept up with all of them. She wanted to be there for them, and it makes her supposed death that much sadder.

Random things of note:

I have always been a Benjamin denier AND NOW THEY'RE JUST DROPPING THAT OUT OF NO WHERE?? I can't have anything fr. Whatever, I'm still on my Sammy is short for Samantha box sue me.

Bumpy being a mother is so silly goofy but I'm hear for it, just glad she's ok cause if they actually tried to kill her I would've had to intervene.

I really loved the way they let everyone show emotions this season. Like yes of course they showed emotions before, but this felt so much rawer and realer if that makes any sense. Literally all of them cried once throughout the season and I loved that. But not just that, they let them be frustrated, and angry, and happy, and everything in between. KEEP IT UP.

All of the dinosaurs looked amazing, but man the Allosaurus stole the show. Also I loved the white eye, it made us want to view the dinosaur as evil in a way, and I think that was good for putting us in Darius' shoes.

The flashback sequence with Darius and the Allosaurus was so wicked. The team knew how to kill a dramatic moment oh my lord. This is kinda related to the animation too but so many shots were so cinematic. LIKE LIGHTING AND BLOCKING IS BACK PEOPLE. Brooklynn's apartment was gorgeous, Sammy's ranch during the sunset was beautiful. The scene of the explosion behind the T. Rex was iconic. We're so back

I'm so in love with how this show handled grief and not only that, but grief in a group setting. I think this might one of the only pieces of media I've ever seen that really shows how messy found family can be, and that's ok. It's not supposed to perfect, it's only as good as they make it.

Kenji saying dad in Japanese after having that conversation with his father about not being able to speak it, and the implication that he might've learned that word to try and talk with his father? Someone kill me like actually.

Darius wearing yellow agai- [GUNSHOT]

I could go into the color theory with all of their outfits but I won't cause I'm trying to not go that insane (it's not going well)

Ben's fanny back going across his torso, Yaz's iconic bangs.

The fact that Sammy found the map implies that A. Brooklynn came over right before she died and after Darius' confession, and B. That despite everything she still wanted and needed to talk to him about something.

Microbangs lady was actually scary as hell. I really liked her though, she was menacing and interesting. And she clearly valued her relationship with the raptors, I hope we see more of her.

I'm kinda sus of Mateo but I think that's just the trauma of every adult always betraying them. Hope he was chill and we won't see him again pls.

Sammy being such a great fighter is so random but I love it so much?? Like yes let her kick ass in cowboy boots that's my girl.

Where is Darius' necklace? When did he stop wearing it? It is important to the plot or did the animators just find it unnecessary?

Closing thoughts:

Overall WHAT A SHOW!! I had kinda fallen out of love with this show because s4 and s5 were kinda eh. I've never stopped loving the characters though, so this show was like a dream come true. Finally an amazing story to support these amazing characters again.

The character relationships felt at an all time high and I'm so grateful. These characters literally feel like my family too it's kinda bad how much I'm attached. I just love how much they love each other.

The only thing that kinda confused me was the ending. Why did they have to get on the boat right then and there? Why did no one stop the boat before it left? I'm not sure but I'm very excited to find out.

And lastly surprise surprise Brooklynn is alive. Of course I'm happy to know, but I kinda don't like the circumstances. I thought she was gonna be kidnapped or something so there would be a valid reason why she wasn't reaching out. But she's free and is just choosing to hide from the crew, with a good reason I assume. I think this will make her reunion with them more bitter than sweet, but I did just say I love messy so I'm excited anyway.

Y'all my fault I know I have a habit of rambling and making essays but this is just too much fr. Whatever I LOVE TALKING ABOUT WHAT I LOVE LMAO.

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clonedchaos · 5 months ago

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I'm a Track Star, Not a Cowgirl!

Rating: G

Summary: Yasmina finds herself at her girlfriend's farm for the weekend to spend some quality time with her... She didn't know there would be horses involved. Fun fact about Yasmina? This stubborn fireball was an international track star! ...What she wasn't was a cowgirl.

Tumblr Version: ~Enjoy!~

Yasmina stretches and breathes in the morning air. The Texas a.m. was already hot and sticky with a promise of blazing heat later in the day. Definitely nothing like the frigid morning air she was used to in Montana.

She reaches down and touches her toes. It feels a bit surreal to have temporarily traded in her running shoes for black leather riding boots, and her track pants for black and gray streaked jodhpurs.

Sammy had enthusiastically woken her up this morning and rambled all throughout breakfast on her idea of taking Yasmina horseback riding out near the stables.

”We have just the best lot of horses! They’ve all been raised here since they were foals!” Sammy had excitedly divulged before she shoved a mouthful of pancakes and fruit into her mouth. The moment she has swallowed it, she continued in a rush of words. “You’re a top athlete! I’m sure you’d take to horseback riding like a fish to water! What do ya say, Yaz?? Wanna take the reins on learning a new skill??” She had leaned forward in rapt attention with a smile that made Yaz’s heart melt.

She didn’t know the first thing about farm life, much less horseback riding. These past few days she had spent with Sammy and her family had opened her eyes to a whole new way of life.

Something she was quick to find they had in common was that they were early risers. While Yaz woke early for her morning run, Sammy and her family would go out to tend to the cattle or the chickens. It was never a dull sunrise; something was always going on.

Which is why Yaz had confidently grinned and set her hand on Sammy’s. “Of course we can, Sammy. Who better to learn from than the cleverest cowgirl I know?” She had asked with a subtle teasing smirk.

Sammy had giggled, causing another mad flutter in Yaz’s chest.

Yasmina straightens up and works on loosening the muscles in her shoulders. Truthfully, she was excited to learn horseback riding with Sammy. It’s like track, right? It takes focus and determination. I can do this, Yaz tells herself.

The scuff of boots hitting the dirt causes Yasmina to turn around. She finds Sammy striding over to her, dressed in brown riding boots with flowery embroidery and a matching helmet, black jodhpurs with streaks of pink, and a nice flowery blouse.

A black and silver trimmed helmet rests against Sammy’s hip. She holds it out to Yasmina once she was close enough. “Alright, Track Star. Ready for your first lesson?” She chirps in excitement.

Yasmina places the helmet atop her head and clicks the buckle together, adjusting it so that it fit snuggly but wasn’t going to choke her.

”You know it, Cowgirl,” Yaz puts her hands on her hips and gives Sammy an assured wink.

”Great! I’m so excited to get to teach you!” Sammy leans forward, throws her arm around Yaz’s shoulders, and pulls her close. Yaz rests her head against Sammy’s as her girlfriend guides them off the porch and down towards the dirt road leading to the stables.

She’s really enthusiastic about this, isn’t she? Yaz thinks as she listens to her girlfriend ramble. Undoubtably, this was important to Sammy. She wouldn’t disappoint her.

”The last person I taught before Jurassic World was my littlest sister, Catalina,” Sammy explains with a wistful tone. “That little one could barely sit still in the saddle. She almost fell off five times.” Sammy then nuzzles Yaz’s cheeks with her own. “But, I’m certain a great athlete such as yourself can ace this!”

Yaz couldn’t help the laugh that escapes her. ”I do have a knack for sports, don’t I?”

She hopes the same skills she learned in track would extend towards horseback riding. Oh, how she hopes.

The two giggle all the way to the stables before pausing just outside of it. The structure was a large red barn with silver accents flowering across the white edges of the doors and windows. Off to the right was extensive brown fencing for the horses to roam free, with a small fencing arena that was void of any obstacles. Off to the front side of the fence was a pig sty and chicken coop.

As Sammy and Yaz got closer, one of the pigs roll out from the mud and sticks its nose through the fence. It lets out a squeak and an ooinnkk as Sammy jogs over.

She kneels down in the grass, snickers, and sticks her fingers through the gap to scratch the pig on the nose. “Sorry, Petunia. Can’t talk right now. I have teachin’ to do.”

”You talk to her?” Yaz muses as Sammy got back to her feet. Given how she used to act around the dinosaurs on Nublar, it made this seem a bit more normal for her.

“I talk to all our critters ‘round here!” Sammy nods and heads inside the stables with Yaz by her side.

”I didn’t know my amazing girlfriend could speak to animals. Are you a Disney princess?” Yaz smirks in amusement.

”Ooo, that was always my childhood dream!” Sammy giggles, nudging Yaz with her shoulder. “How’d you know? Oh! Are you some sort of secret psychic like that country lady from that one Esther Stone episode in season three??”

Yaz quirks a smile and gently boops her on the nose. “It’s my little secret.”

Sammy gives her a soft smile before she gestures to the rows of stables on both sides of them. Small, decorated wooden signs hung down from the first floor ceiling. Each read out the name of the horse living inside along with intricate designs surrounding it.

“Since it’s your first time riding a horse, we’ll start you out with our gentlest mare,” Sammy smiles and makes her way over towards one of the stables.

Yaz follows and glances up at the sign. Written in vibrant yellow chalk was the name “Poppy”, surrounded by lovely drawings of flowers.

”Come here, girl,” Sammy coaxes gently. Yaz fondly remembers the times she had calmed frightened dinosaurs on Nublar. Or, more specifically, the Sinoceratops.

Sammy really is something, isn’t she? Yaz thinks to herself as an elegant pinto horse trots forward and nudges Sammy’s cheek with her nose. Sammy giggles, causing an infectious smile to make its way onto Yaz’s lips.

”Yaz, Poppy. Poppy, Yaz,” Sammy grandly introduces them both as if she were an announcer at a fancy gala. She gestures for Yaz to come stand next to her. Yaz stands before the stable door and gazes at the beautiful mare before them.

Poppy’s glossy coat was a spotted white and chestnut brown color. Her blonde mane fell down the side of one shoulder and her tail flicked at the sight of the two teens. And she was big. Yaz had seen from pictures and movies the sheer scope of horses. But actually being here, right in front of one, helps her see the massive size of these animals. It was breathtaking.

Sammy heads towards a barrel and retrieves a scarlet red apple. She holds it out to Yaz, who takes it from her. Yaz wasn’t hungry, but she knew it wasn’t for her.

“Here, hold your hand out flat,” Sammy gently grabs Yaz’s wrist and holds her hand up to Poppy to demonstrate. Yaz obeys the order— notably trying to keep her blushing at bay— and Poppy leans down to sniff her palm and the apple placed atop it. She plucks it right out of Yaz’s hold and loudly chomps on the fruit, her eyes never quite leaving Yaz’s.

Yaz awkwardly diverts her gaze. Sammy had done wonders for pulling her out of her shell. But she was never quite keen on being stared at. Apparently the same could be said when it came to horses.

”Poppy is a delight. She’s a calm, gentle soul who wouldn’t harm a fly. She’s perfect for teaching you,” Sammy smiles, briefly resting her head on Yaz’s shoulder. “Though, she can be a bit skittish.”

”I’ve got enough bravery for the both of us,” Yaz replies confidently with a smile of her own. She leans forward and gently strokes Poppy’s mane, wrapping her other arm around Sammy’s shoulder.

After a few moments of the comfortable silence, Sammy goes next door to a dapple gray stallion. “This here is Rainstorm. He’ll help us with our lesson today. Won’t you, Stormy?” Sammy chirps in a baby voice, scratching the horse’s dark muzzle with her knuckles. The stallion whinnies in response.

“So, what’s our first lesson?” Yaz asks eagerly as Poppy sniffs her hand. Apparently the horse expected another apple to appear out of thin air. That, or she suspected Yaz was hiding another one from her.

Sammy gestures toward the back of the stable where several bridles, stirrups, and saddles were strung about across the wall. “First lesson: How to Tack Your Horse.”

“One of the most important aspects of horseback riding is forming a bond with your horse,” Sammy explains as they entered the small arena-like area. She gently guides Rainstorm by the reins, while Yaz was doing the same with Poppy.

The mare was thankfully placid and hardly ever tugged on the reins. Meanwhile, on the way, Rainstorm had tried to divert from Sammy’s path to grab a dandelion or two. Despite the stallion’s musculature and height, Sammy was able to sternly guide him where she wanted.

Sammy leads Rainstorm through the gate before she steps aside to allow Yaz to come through with Poppy. Once the gate closes, she turns to her.

”So, we’re going to start by walking around this arena with her,” Sammy announces. “Gently talk to her. Horses love to chat.”

Yaz glances over at Poppy. A gentle breeze ruffled the horse’s mane and she reached out to pat it. Right… Simple enough.

”Like so,” Sammy starts and begins to guide Rainstorm along the outskirts of the arena. “How’s your day, Stormy? Eat enough oats? Ooo, your mane is sooooo glossy today!” She compliments and pats the horse’s shoulder. She then turns to Yaz with a beaming grin. “See? Now you try!”

Yaz steps forward and gently tugs on the reins, indicating Poppy to follow. The mare obeys and slowly begins to walk by her side.

”Umm… So… How’s the weather?” Yaz asks awkwardly. Her cheeks flush pink. This is embarrassing… She thinks to herself.

Luckily, Sammy was too engaged in her one-sided conversation with Rainstorm to notice. Sometimes she would reach up and stroke the stallion behind the ears. The horse would respond by nuzzling her cheek or playfully gnawing on a strand of her hair.

Yaz smiles at the sight before she looks back at Poppy. She tries a few more questions; Poppy obviously not responding with anything more than a nicker or snort. The horse kept glancing at her every now and then. By their fourth lap around the arena, Yaz had lost any ideas for horse small talk. Sammy was still chattering a mile a minute.

It was all going a bit too slow for Yaz.

She begins to jog. Poppy follows suit with a trot. Yaz comes up beside Rainstorm with a smile. “Hey, Sam. How about we start with riding?”

Sammy stands on her tiptoes to look over her horse’s back. “Already? Well, I suppose we can try. You are an athlete after all.” She stops Rainstorm and ties the reins to the fence post. She then turns back to Yaz.

“Alright. We’re going to use the fence post as a boost for you. It’s how my little sister started out. Gettin’ in the saddle can be tricky,” Sammy begins, patting Poppy’s saddle.

Yaz frowns at that. How her little sister started out? But I’m not little.

Yaz releases the bridle reins and Sammy takes them for her as she moves Poppy closer towards the fence, leaving a gap in between for Yaz to squeeze through.

“Are you sure I need the fence? I’m sure I can get up on my own,” Yaz insists.

Sammy raises an eyebrow. “Well… You can try… But—“

”Great!” Yaz interrupts. She can show Sammy she was going to be a great rider. She can show herself.

Yaz jogs in place momentarily before she lunges upwards. Her chest hits the saddle, drawing the breath out of her. Her hands fly out as she struggles to find purchase. Poppy neighs and starts forward in surprise.

“Woah, girl!” Sammy cries and grabs her reins, trying to steady the horse and calm her with a gentle touch.

Try as she might, Yaz feels her hands slipping. She hits the gravely sand with a thud and lies on her back with a grunt.

”Yaz? Are you okay?” Sammy inquires, her eyes round. She keeps one hand on the reins and leans down to offer her girlfriend a hand.

Yaz takes it, biting back embarrassment. “I’m okay.”

”Maybe you should try the fence this time,” Sammy advises. “There’s no shame in it.”

Yaz nods and forces a smile. She hoists herself up on one of the fence rails and turns her body around to face Poppy. At this height, she could reach out with a leg and slip it around the other side of the horse. She then pushes off, her hands digging into the horse's mane for balance as she slips her boots into the stirrups. Not the most graceful way, but at least she was up now.

She clutches the reins and looks down, immediately catching a subtle nauseating feeling. It's higher up than it looks... Yaz thinks and swallows down her nerves. She shuffles in her saddle to try and get comfortable. Saddles weren’t as simple as they looked either.

"We'll work on trying to get you to master a deep seat," Sammy says and pats Poppy on the shoulder. She then moves to untie Rainstorm's reins from the post.

"Deep seat?" Yaz asks as her body tilts sideways. She quickly adjusts herself, twitching in the saddle. It was impossible to get settled.

"It's how you sit in the saddle," Sammy explains as she guides Rainstorm away from the fence. With great expertise, Sammy climbs effortlessly into the saddle and looks over her shoulder at her girlfriend. "It means you can distribute your weight evenly so that you won't hinder yourself or your horse."

"Got any tips on how, cowgirl?" Yaz questions.

Sammy chuckles. "You'll figure it out, I'm sure. You're a track star, after all. This should be a piece of cake!"

Yaz laughs awkwardly. Totally... Peace of cake. Every time Poppy moves her head, Yaz accidentally pulls on the opposite side of the reins to try and maintain her own balance. "Right. Of course..."

"First thing's first. You're gonna want to lightly squeeze your legs together. That'll coax her to move forward," Sammy advises. "Like so."

With a click of her tongue and gentle squeeze of the legs, Sammy's order ushers Rainstorm to move ahead at a slow walk. Sammy looks back over her shoulder and gives Yaz an encouraging expression. "Why don't you try with Poppy? Her cue is a pat on the shoulder followed by a leg squeeze. Try it out! You’ll do wonderful!”

Yasmina awkwardly nods and clutches the reins. She hesitantly leans down with one hand and pats Poppy. She then gently squeezes her legs, and the mare starts forward. She could feel the horse's muscles moving beneath her as she fought to keep upright. Sammy gently tugs on the reins to persuade Rainstorm to slow down.

Yaz and Poppy caught up to them. Poppy moves to the left to get around Rainstorm and Yaz has to jerk her reins the other way, unprepared for the sudden change in direction. Soon, Poppy was beside Rainstorm.

"That was great! See! I told you that you'd be a natural!" Sammy commends and reaches over to playfully nudge her shoulder with her hand.

Yaz veers sideways as her weight shifts to one side of the saddle. Her fingers grip the reins tighter as she pulls herself back into a correct position. Poppy's ears twitch at such a sharp tug and she stumbles to the side, rearing her head back. Thankfully, Yaz manages to tilt her head to the side before the mare could bump her on the nose.

"Easy, girl," Sammy says softly, reaching out to pat the mare's muscular shoulder. Her eyes flick back to Yaz. "Heh... Sorry about that."

Yaz forces a confident smile and waves a dismissive hand as she fights for balance. "Are you kidding? That was nothing. I'm great."

"You sure? We can take it nice and slow if you prefer," Sammy frowns. “Can’t rush a horse—“

"Slow? Sammy, you know me," Yaz says as she pats Poppy and squeezes her legs together. She wouldn’t let Sammy see that she was struggling.

The horse moves forward at a walk and then eventually picks up speed to a trot.

”I just really think it would be best if you—“ Sammy broke off as Poppy picks up speed.

Yaz fights to remain in her saddle, the horse’s rhythmic hoofbeats throwing off her own balance. “Slow down! Not that fast!” Yaz shouts as Poppy thunders down the length of the arena.

Yaz precariously leans sideways as Poppy takes a hard left at the edge of the fencing. It took all her leg muscles and upper body strength to keep from falling into the pig sty just beside the arena.

Yaz yanks herself forward, her hands wrapping around the horse’s muscular neck. “Okay, okay, you can stop now!” She howls, the wind carrying her words to unheard ears.

Sammy had mounted Rainstorm and was rushing towards them to try and help. She had a panicked stricken look blazing across her features.

Right as Sammy drew nearer, Poppy suddenly stopped and reared up on her back legs. Yaz screamed at the sudden motion and fell backwards, roughly hitting the ground. The breath drew out of her lungs, leaving her gasping for air.

Poppy races away as Sammy hops off Rainstorm and shoots like a rocket to her girlfriend’s aid. “Yaz? Yaz! Are you okay?!” Her voice teems with concern as she sets a gentle hand behind Yaz’s back and helps her sit up. The other hand was cupping Yaz’s cheek.

Yaz caught her breath and leans into Sammy’s touch. “I’m alright, Sammy,” She reassures, setting both hands on Sammy’s shoulders.

”Are you sure?” Sammy frowns and fretfully checks her for any noticeable wounds.

Yaz chuckles and moves a hand to cup Sammy's cheek. She swiftly plants a swift peck to the other, hoping her face wasn't a blushing mess. Sometimes she hates how flustered Sammy made her. But Sammy had always claimed that it made her 'even more adorable'.

Sammy briefly glances over at Poppy, who had thankfully slowed to a halt a few feet away. She seemed to be side-eyeing the two older teens but didn't make any moves toward them.

The ruffled cowgirl sighs and rests her forehead against Yaz's. Her eyes didn't quite meet her girlfriend's and instead focused on the dirt between them. "Shoot, I'm so sorry Yaz... I was being a bit much, wasn't I?" She mumbles sheepishly.

Yaz lowers her head so that Sammy had no choice but to look at her. "Hey, don't say that. I was the one being stubborn..." She took a deep breath and slowly let it out as she sat back up. "I just... I'm a Track Star. You always think I can do extraordinary things, and I... I just didn't want to let you down... To let you see me struggling with something you care so much about..."

Sammy frowns and moves to sit next to Yaz. She wraps an arm around her shoulder and pulls her closer, the other hand slipping into Yaz's. Yaz breathes a small sigh of peace as she leans against her.

"You are amazing!" Sammy insists with the beginnings of a smile. "Whether you struggle with something or not, that'll always be true. I'm sorry if I felt like I was pressuring you in any way. I just wanted to inspire and motivate you. It's what you've always done for me."

Yaz lifts her head to stare at Sammy, blinking at the confession. Sure, she remembered all the times she had uplifted her campmates when they were stuck on Nublar. It was that tough, go-getter attitude that helped Sammy get back on her feet after being poisoned by the Scorpios Rex.

To be truthful, Sammy was the one who had always inspired her. Ever since they had met, Sammy had persisted on pulling her out of her shell. She wanted to see Yaz shine and fulfill all that she was meant to do; she couldn't do that if she was stuck all alone.

And, sure, maybe their relationship hadn't started out perfect. But what relationship was perfect?

Yaz smiles and rests her head on Sammy's shoulder. "And you're my biggest inspiration, Sammy. I love you."

"I love you too, Yaz," Sammy gently replies, resting her head atop hers.

After a few brief moments of comforting silence, they stood hand-in-hand.

"Well, I do say that your first horseback riding lesson went well." She then snickers and playfully nudges Yaz's shoulder. "I can't wait to tell everyone how you almost fell into the pig sty."

Yaz shakes her head with a mischievous smile of her own. "Ah, so that means I can tell them your secret of communicating with all of the animals?"

Sammy puts her hands on her hips before she walks over to gently bring Poppy back over to them. She tilts her head against the mare's and gives Yaz a mock pout. "No! Besides, that's unfair. You're the psychic! Our abilities are our little secret, okay?"

Yaz snickers at her girlfriend's fantasy and comes over to stand next to Poppy. The horse bends her head down to sniff her helmet with a snort.

"Poppy says she's very sorry for spooking you," Sammy translates, running a hand through the mare's soft mane.

Yaz cautiously pats Poppy on the shoulder. "I'm sorry too. She was only scared because I tried to do too much too fast. I shouldn't have rushed her."

Sammy nods at that with a sympathetic expression. "Horses don't like to be pushed. But, given a bit more time... I'm sure you'll get the hang of things. Because you're Yaz! Is there anything you can't do?"

Yasmina chuckles and gently pulls Sammy into an embrace. "I think I'll leave the horses to you, Cowgirl."

Sammy smiles and plants a kiss on Yaz's forehead. "Hmm... Think you can spare one more horseback ride? I have something in mind..."

And that's how Sammy and Yaz ended up on a pleasant hack through the nearby forest trail. It was a peaceful way to end the day, and it was nothing the two wouldn't have wanted more than to spend it together.

#ao3 #camp cretaceous #lgbt pride #yasmina fadoula #sammy gutierrez #yasammy #fluff #horseback riding #romance #Just these two being the cutest girlfriends ever #one shot #Cloned's Camp Cretaceous Fics #jurassic world camp cretaceous #jurassic world #jwcc

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