#lens flair

[lens-flair]

First few shots with Canon FD 135mm f2.5

[kidokear]

Always wanted to draw V. ^-^

Also! Speed draw!

Hey, there is a little fun thing I left in one of these. If you want, you can try find it before watching the video.

[coldflasher]

fun fact: i try to keep my captain cold cosplay pretty screen accurate (which is nice and easy to do, thank u costume department) but i also always have to have a lil sneaky nod to coldflash in there so i finish off the look with these boots

[affluent-havoc]

I can't stop drawing them antagonizing each other! It's too funny and this is too true.

[connorskeepers]

☀️ She’s got flare ☀️

[velvetvexations]

I remember it as from a dream In the corner of this time

[scifiartbog]

text sais: giving him all of my autism 💖

i was making a shitpost about my tendency to project onto fictional characters and accidentally locked in really hard

[toomanybs]

BatFam Fanfiction Required

Annoys me a whole lot that no matter how little sense it makes Damian is never allowed to grow so he stays cute. Like a purebred purse dog that you can already tell has so many health issues

The Point:

Damian, at his shortest, should outgrow Tim by age 15. At his tallest he should outgrow Tim by age 12 (or earlier)

As a bit-below-average woman with an average little brother it offends me deeply that the frustration of being outgrown by a teenage sibling is not being represented. I require compensation in the form of fanfiction. Yes I am begging

The Evidence:

Tim Drake is 5'5"-5'6 at age 17 and should be 5'6"-5'7" by age 20. Cassandra and Steph are both around his height

Damian's adult height* should be minimum 5'10" and maximum 6'5" . That is to say it varies from Dick's height (~average man) to tall as heck (tallest among the bats)

*depending on his height when 10-11 (varies with artist), and according to his parents' more consistent heights of 5'8" and 6'2"

The Second Point:

Envision Tim being judged for first fighting an 11 year old and saying "that 11 year old is heavier than me and it's all muscle". This is canon accurate

The Third Point:

The bias against tall kids is weird, confusing, and somewhat suspicious to me. TBH most things are, However; it makes me wonder how often tall kids are treated as adults before they should be and explains to me why short people get treated like kids

We can't even get over the idea that maturity isn't based on size. No wonder we can't get over treating women as either mature by puberty (when height growth slows) or never mature at all (average 5 in shorter than men)

[codecicle]

the allegations are kicking the shit out of me again

[unproduciblesmackdown]

behind the scenes shots ft. akd as the adjudicator, from this article about the cinematography

“In Hollywood, action filmmaking was kind of looked down upon until The Matrix, and then people realized that action could also be part of the story,” [director] Stahelski notes. “I come from a place of loving dance and theater and fine art — action can be all of those things — and one of my favorite painters is Caravaggio.” When he was looking for a cinematographer for John Wick: Chapter 2, Stahelski recalls, “I asked myself, ‘Who paints with light?’ The answer is Dan Laustsen.” In strictly cinematographic terms, Parabellum functions less like an action movie and more like a Hollywood studio musical. The film’s first battle is a close-quarters knife fight in an antique weapons shop, where the camera cuts from wide shot to wide shot, sustaining the action in long takes so that the audience can better appreciate the physical prowess of Reeves’ performance — an elaborate fighting style that combines Japanese judo and jujitsu, Brazilian jujitsu, Russian sambo, Filipino kali, and Muay Thai, more for the benefit of show than for self-defense.  “Ninety-nine percent of high-level stunt work is dance — not pirouettes, but how you move your body,” asserts Stahelski, who continues to train stuntpeople with Leitch through their company 87eleven. “I love the aesthetic of motion. A lot of our shots [in Parabellum] are lifted straight from Singin’ in the Rain and West Side Story. We’re mixing Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin with Hong Kong cinema from John Woo, Jackie Chan and the Shaw Brothers.” “We wanted to go wider than Hollywood action films normally do and really show off the choreography,” Laustsen agrees. “When the camera, lighting and actors are all moving together, it really is a dance.”

“After we made Chapter 2,” Laustsen notes, “we discussed how we could make 3 even more visually powerful. The main setting was still New York, but we wanted to bring out the city even more forcefully. We decided to shoot all at night, with rain as much as possible. Rain is fantastic because it gives a third dimension to the picture, but it is a challenge to do it, especially in a city like New York.”

The Master Anamorphics’ low-distortion design also prevents dramatic, streaking lens flares, and so the technicians at Arri Rental in Secaucus, N.J., fashioned a flare filter — comprising three strands of nylon fishing line stretched across an empty filter frame — for the XT’s and Mini’s Internal Filter Modules. When a front-of-lens filter produces a flare, Laustsen observes, it “just looks like the light is catching on a piece of flat glass in front of the lens. It’s more beautiful when the flare comes from the lens itself” — and that’s the effect that was replicated with the behind-the-lens nylon lines. “With the filters inside the camera,” the cinematographer adds, “it was also easier for first assistant Craig Pressgrove to do the lens changes.”

The exterior of the Continental was shot in lower Manhattan, but the hotel’s interiors were filmed in downtown Brooklyn, in the former Williamsburgh Savings Bank tower — which now serves as an event space —whose glass-and-wrought-iron front doors open to a 128'-long vaulted banking hall with limestone facing, marble floors, carved teller stations, and a 63'-high ceiling supported by Romanesque columns. For its role as the Continental’s lobby, the hall was furnished by Kavanaugh with two round settees crowned with statues of the Roman war gods Bellona and Mars, a fully-stocked bar, and a lounge on the mezzanine. 

Parabellum’s stages were located at Gold Coast Studios in Long Island, N.Y. The first of the production’s two notable stage-bound sets is the Continental’s terrace, for which the Rockefeller Center rooftop garden was used in Chapter 2. The schedule didn’t allow for much time to shoot Parabellum’s scene, which takes place at sunrise. “You cannot make the sun rise [for] a movie,” Laustsen notes wryly. “It’s one or two shots, and then you have daylight, and then you’re fighting to control the light.”  So, for more control, the scene was moved onstage, where the set was surrounded with a sectional 45'x350' bluescreen lit with SkyPanel S120s; a 120' black velour curtain was used to control blue spill coming from off-camera. Early-morning ambience was provided by 176 overhead SkyPanel S60s, and the light of the rising sun was simulated by a 20K tungsten Fresnel and a 24K Dino light with medium bulbs, both gelled with 1⁄2 CTS. The other key set built at Gold Coast was the “manager’s office,” a labyrinthine two-story glass-and-steel structure meant to represent the top floors of the Continental, with a 270-degree view of the adjacent skyscrapers. It’s in this space that Wick and Zero ultimately face off mano a mano. “The concept was to create a space where everything is exposed, a place where there are no secrets,” Kavanaugh explains.  To help him integrate the lighting into the design of the set itself, Laustsen worked with a virtual-reality computer model based on Kavanaugh’s design. “Chad, Kevin and I had discussions about color — cool lights inside, warm light outside,” says the cinematographer, who wanted what he describes as an “organic” light element for both spaces. The art department therefore added a 35'x14' LED wall to the set’s second floor and a 28'x12' LED billboard to the rooftop; the latter was positioned between the glass structure and a 40'x440' Rosco SoftDrop that was backlit by 150 SkyPanel S60s through Magic Cloth sourced from The Rag Place.  Almeida and his rigging crew installed more than a mile of LiteGear Chroma-Correct RGB-Daylite LED LiteRibbon into the glass and steel set, using aluminum profile and plastic diffusers provided by Kavanaugh’s art department. Cues were orchestrated from an ETC Ion Xe console operated by Kent Arneson; Laustsen took advantage of that control to increase the intensity of the light over time — until the very end of the fight, when the two combatants are photographed primarily in silhouette against the LED walls. 

Wick literally fights his way through the set — alternately smashing his opponents and being smashed through glass pedestals, walls and floors — until he comes face to face with his nemesis. “We filmed this sequence with a [Chapman/Leonard Hustler IV] dolly and a Libra head, a Steadicam, and a couple of crane shots [with a MovieBird 45 and Aerocrane jib],” Laustsen details. “We didn’t want to go handheld because of all the straight lines. It would be a much more powerful look for the film if the frame was always parallel to the set.” “When we did bring in lights for the close-ups, we used Arri SkyPanel S60s and Astera AX1 LED tubes that we could attach virtually anywhere using magnets and clips,” Almeida adds. “The Astera tubes worked out great because they’re easy to hide, and if you saw a reflection, it just looked like the lighting that was built-in already.”

[mydaysaresmall]

throwback to when I used to do more digital painting

[eggs-n-ham-sam]

The best pic I managed to take. I did a high tech method of holding my sun glasses in front of the camera lens.

[sugurugetoshairbrush]

Tiktok Influencer!Gojo Satoru—“We Listen & We Don’t Judge” [prev] [nxt]

@ sexygojosatoru has made a new post:

“we listen & we don’t judge” challenge w/ my students again!! (ft. nanamin) #fyp

00:02 =⬤--------------------------- 02:58 

⇆ㅤ ◁ㅤ❚❚ㅤ▷ㅤ ↻ 

[The video opens abruptly with Gojo flashing a grin so confident it’s almost unnerving. He’s dressed in a soft grey polo sweatshirt, his wispy white bangs clipped back by a baby blue barrette that looks both out of place and perfectly on-brand. He gestures for the camera.]

Gojo: (whispering) “Nobara, hold the phone steady so I can start!”

[The frame shifts slightly before leveling out. Gojo clears his throat, cheeks tinted pink, and offers a sweet, almost innocent smile.]

Gojo: “So, uh… I’ve hooked up with a mass murderer. Post-mass murder. And… I went back for more.”

[A loud gasp cuts through the air—Yuji’s, unmistakably.]

Nobara: “Oh, that’s not—”

Megumi: “You should block Yaga right now.”

[Gojo winces dramatically, avoiding the camera as the blush deepens. He waves a hand dismissively.]

Voices in unison: “We listen, and we don’t judge.”

[The camera transitions—this time landing on Megumi, who’s tugging at the neckline of his baggy black tee. He stares into the lens, expression unreadable.]

Megumi: “Alright, uh… I’ve never tried to look for my absentee father. He’s been dead to me since he left my life.”

Gojo: “Damn.”

Voices in unison: “We listen, and we don’t judge.”

Nobara: “Yeah! Screw him!”

[Nobara leans into the frame, tilting the camera to focus on her. She puckers her lips, flipping her hair with theatrical flair.]

Megumi: “Just go already!”

Nobara: “Fine, fine! So, sometimes, when I want to shop, I rummage through Gojo-sensei’s desk and… take any loose cash.”

Voices in unison: “We listen, and we don’t judge.”

Gojo: (frantic) “No. Nope. I am gonna judge! What the hell?!”

Megumi: “Too bad—it’s a no-judge challenge. Honestly, Nobara, I do it too.”

Yuji: “Wait, what?! Why wasn’t I invited?”

[The camera cuts sharply to Yuji, now front and center, clad in a snug black compression tee. He points at the camera, grinning.]

Yuji: “Okay, mine’s a storytime, so buckle up. One night, I was, uh… feeling a bit hot and bothered. You know. I decided to…deal with it. And just as I was about to… Sukuna popped out from my hand and started laughing hysterically. Since then, I’ve just stayed… y’know… pent up.”

[A heavy silence lingers, the kind that feels like the world is holding its breath.]

Megumi: “Wow. That’s…dark Yuj. Uh, guys?”

Voices in unison: “We listen, and we don’t judge.”

[Gojo snatches the camera, repositioning it onto his strained face.]

Gojo: “Okay, that got way too real. Let’s bring in Nanamin to lighten the mood.”

[The frame cuts again. This time, it’s Nanami, caught mid-sip of his coffee at his desk. His blue button-up is pressed to perfection, his blonde hair neatly combed, though the faintest twitch of his brow betrays his irritation.]

Nanami: “This better be my last TikTok, Gojo. Okay. There are… occasions where I’ve used my Ratio technique… inappropriately. And that’s all I’ll say.”

[The room erupts into gasps, though Nanami’s smirk is so subtle it’s almost imperceptible.]

Voices in unison: “We listen, and we don’t judge.”

02:58 =================⬤ 02:58

⇆ㅤ ◁ㅤ❚❚ㅤ▷ㅤ ↻

insp by @devilishdior & @tlissablr's comments !

[freshl6ve]

𝐂𝐇𝐑𝐈𝐒. 𝐒 | 𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐇 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐓

❝ 𝟐 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐇 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄! ❞

⭑.ᐟ : 𝐈 𝐚𝐝𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐚 𝐬𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬, my fingers gliding flawlessly over the dials. I glanced up at Chris, who was eagerly awaiting instructions.

“Okay, Chris, now turn this way,” I instructed, gesturing with my free hand. The sunlight streamed through the studio windows, casting a warm, natural glow on Chris' features as he pivoted towards me.

Chris struck a casual yet confident pose, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. I observed him through the lens, framing the shot carefully.

“Perfect,” I called out, the camera shutter clicking. “That's a great one. Let's try a slightly different angle.”

Chris adjusted his stance, his body moving effortlessly into another pose. The fabric of his clothes clung to his form, emphasizing the quality of the designs he was modeling.

I continued to give directions, my voice steady and encouraging. “That's it, just a slight tilt of the head... Yes, just like that. Perfect.”

We continued the photoshoot, both of us falling into a rhythm. Chris' natural charisma and charm shone through in each shot. He radiated confidence and joy, making my job as the photographer easy.

“You're killing it,” I commented, my fingers working the camera. “These photos are going to be incredible.”

Chris chuckled, his eyes meeting mine briefly before turning back to the camera. “It's easy when I have a great photographer to guide me.”

I stepped back from the camera, scrolling through the shots I had captured. The images were vibrant and full of life, perfectly capturing Chris' energy and charm.

As I continued to browse through them, I noticed Chris approaching me, his eyes fixed on the camera's display screen. He came to stand beside me, curiosity in his gaze.

“Can I take a look?” he asked, gesturing towards the camera.

I nodded and handed the camera over to him. He took it gingerly, scrolling through the gallery of images.

Chris' eyes widened as he saw each shot, a broad smile spreading across his face. “These are amazing. You've really captured me perfectly in these.”

Chris looked up from the camera, a mischievous gleam in his eye. He handed the camera back to me and crossed his arms.

“You know what would make this even more fun?” he asked, a smirk playing on his lips. I raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. “What's that?”

“You should model some of these designs too,” Chris suggested, a hint of challenge in his voice.

I laughed nervously, feeling a twinge of embarrassment. I shook my head, waving off the suggestion. “Oh, no way,” I protested. “I'm no model. I wouldn't know the first thing about it.”

Chris chuckled at my response, a reassuring smile on his face. “Are you kidding? I'm not a pro either,” he replied. “I just have fun with it. That's what matters.”

He extended his hand towards me, gesturing for me to take it. “Come on, it'll be fun. Just give it a try.”

I paused for a moment, considering Chris' words. His enthusiasm was contagious, and a part of me was intrigued by the idea. After a moment's hesitation, I gave in and took his hand.

“Alright, fine,” I relented, a small smile tugging at the corners of my lips. “I'll give it a shot.”

Chris' eyes lit up, a mix of excitement and anticipation on his face. He led me over to a nearby clothing rack, from which he pulled out one of his Fresh-Love designs.

“This one will look great on you,” Chris said, handing me the shirt.

I took it, feeling the soft fabric in my fingers. The design was simple yet stylish, with a touch of edginess. I slipped the shirt on, the material feeling comfortable against my skin.

I tugged at the shirt, adjusting it to fit just right. I took a look in the mirror, surprised at how well the design suited me. The fabric hugged my figure in all the right places, and the edgy touch added a certain flair.

Chris watched me with a satisfied smile, visibly pleased that the shirt looked as good on me as he had hoped.

“See? You look amazing in it,” Chris praised, his eyes taking in my outfit.

I blushed at his compliment, unused to being the center of attention. “Really? I feel kind of silly, standing in front of the camera,” I admitted, fidgeting with the hem of the shirt.

Chris held the camera, a reassuring smile on his face. He could see the doubt in my eyes, but he was determined to help me overcome it.

“You've got this,” he encouraged, his voice steady and calm. “Whenever you're ready, just let me know. I'm here to guide you.”

I took a deep breath, feeling my nerves slowly start to settle. I trusted Chris and his ability to bring out the best in people.

“Okay,” I said, my voice a bit shaky. “I'm ready.”

“Perfect,” Chris nodded, the camera in his hands. “Just do what feels natural. Don't think too much about it.”

I stood before the camera, feeling a mix of self-consciousness and anticipation. Taking another deep breath, I tried to relax and follow Chris' advice.

I moved my body, mimicking the poses I had seen Chris do earlier. It felt awkward and unnatural at first, but as I continued, I slowly started to feel more at ease. Chris' words of encouragement echoed in my mind, helping me to forget about my insecurities.

“That's it,” Chris praised, his voice filled with genuine excitement. “You're doing great. Just keep going.”

I felt a small surge of confidence at his words. I let go of my inhibitions and allowed myself to enjoy the experience, posing for the camera with a growing sense of playfulness.

After the photoshoot was done, Chris and I settled down at my desk, the camera memory card loaded into my computer. We sat side by side, scrolling through the images. The room was filled with a comfortable silence as we focused on the screen.

“These turned out really well,” Chris commented, his eyes flicking from one photo to another. “You've got a real talent for photography, Y/N.”

I chuckled, a small smile playing on my lips. “You're not so bad yourself,” I replied, meeting his gaze.

Chris chuckled in return, a hint of pink spreading across his cheeks. He leaned back in his chair and scratched the back of his neck, his eyes still fixed on the screen.

“Yeah, I guess I didn't do too badly,” he said, a touch of modesty in his voice.

As we continued looking through the photos, one in particular caught Chris' attention. It was a shot of me, my head thrown back in laughter. The camera had captured the moment perfectly, freezing my joy in time.

“I love that one,” Chris said, a small smile on his face as he pointed to the image on the screen. “You laughed so genuinely. It's beautiful.”

I felt my cheeks grow warm at Chris' words, a mixture of flattery and embarrassment washing over me. I didn't quite know how to respond, so I simply turned my focus back to the computer screen.

Chris continued to scroll through the photos, carefully selecting the ones he wanted for his website. We worked in a comfortable silence, occasionally pausing to discuss a particularly striking image.

Time had flown by as we worked, and now the sun was beginning to set outside the studio window. Golden light streamed in, bathing the room in a warm, golden hue. The studio looked almost magical as the shadows lengthened and the air grew slightly cooler.

“Man, I didn't realize it was getting so late,” Chris commented, stretching his arms above his head.

I glanced out the window, taking in the beautiful sunset. I couldn't help but admire the way the light played off of Chris' features, making him look even more handsome than usual.

“Yeah, time really got away from us,” I replied, turning back to the computer. “But I think we got some great shots for the drop.”

I glanced out the window, taking in the beautiful sunset. I couldn't help but admire the way the light played off of Chris' features, making him look even more handsome than usual.

“Yeah, time really got away from us,” I replied, turning back to the computer. “But I think we got some great shots for the drop.”

“Definitely,” Chris agreed, leaning back in his chair. “The fans are gonna love these.”

We both fell silent for a moment, the peaceful atmosphere of the room seeping in. The setting sun cast long shadows across the floor, making the room feel intimate and cozy.

I pushed back my chair and stood up, my muscles tight from sitting for so long. I walked over to the large window, gazing out at the sprawling city below. The sun had almost dipped below the horizon, the sky a beautiful gradient of pinks and purples.

Leaning against the window, I stretched my arms high above my head, relieving the stiffness in my back.

“It's amazing how much the city changes at sunset,” I commented quietly, my eyes taking in the view.

Chris stood up too, joining me by the window. He placed his hands in his pockets, his gaze following mine as he took in the cityscape below.

“You think we'll ever get tired of this view?” he asked, a small smile playing on his lips.

I shook my head, a sense of contentedness washing over me. “I don't think so,” I replied. “I could look at this all the time and never get bored.”

Chris leaned his shoulder against the window, his eyes fixated on me as I took in the view. He watched as the last rays of sunlight danced across my face, his gaze filled with affection.

The room was bathed in a soft, warm light, creating an intimate atmosphere. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he quietly admired me.

I glanced at Chris, noticing the way he was looking at me. Confused, I turned to face him fully. “What?” I asked quietly, a hint of curiosity in my voice.

Chris shook his head slightly, his lips curving into a soft, warm smile. “Nothing,” he replied simply, his eyes holding mine.

The air between us felt charged, the silence filled with unspoken words. For a moment, all I could do was hold his gaze, my heartbeats slightly faster than usual.

Chris didn't look away, his smile unwavering. The setting sun cast a warm glow on his features, making him look impossibly handsome. I couldn't tear my eyes away from him, his presence captivating me.

We stood like that for what felt like an eternity, our bodies close but not quite touching. The city below us seemed to fade away, the only thing in my mind being Chris and the overwhelming feelings he stirred in me.

The tension between us was palpable, the electricity in the room almost tangible. I could feel my pulse quicken as my heart thudded against my chest.

Chris continued to smile at me, his eyes locked on mine. It was as if he could see into my soul, my emotions laid bare before him. I couldn't bring myself to look away, my feelings for him growing stronger by the second.

Chris broke our eye contact, suddenly looking down at the city below. A small chuckle escaped his lips, a hint of amusement in his expression.

“What is it now?” I asked, my curiosity piqued. I knew Chris well enough to know that chuckle meant he was up to something.

Chris looked back at me, a soft smile on his lips. “Nothing,” he answered, his voice taking on a more poetic tone. “Just the way the sunlight dances on your skin, making you even more beautiful than you already are.”

He continued to lean against the glass, his arms crossed in front of him. His eyes never left mine, his gaze intense and sincere.

I rolled my eyes, a small smile playing on my lips at Chris' comment. “You're such a flirt,” I teased, turning to walk away.

Before I could take more than a few steps, Chris' hand shot out and encircled my wrist, stopping me in my tracks. I turned back to face him, surprise evident on my face.

With Chris' grip on my wrist, he pulled me closer, closing the distance between us until our bodies were almost touching. Our faces were now just inches apart, our breaths mingling in the minimal space between us. We were so close now that I could feel the heat radiating off his body. If he were to whisper, I'd be able to hear every word.

Chris leaned in even closer, his voice lowering to a whisper, barely above a breath. “I mean it,” he murmured, his words sending shivers down my spine.

Chris was so close now, his breath warm against my skin. He spoke in a low, intimate tone, every word sending jolts of electricity through me.

“The way you stop to enjoy the little things,” he whispered, his voice barely audible. “The way you find joy in moments most people take for granted. It just makes me adore you even more.”

As Chris spoke, he gently took hold of my wrists, guiding my arms around his neck. He pulled me against him, my body pressed close to his. My hands rested against the nape of his neck, my fingers tangling in his hair.

His arms encircled my waist, holding me close against him. We were now standing so close together that I could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat against my chest.

As I stood there, wrapped in Chris' embrace, a thousand thoughts raced through my mind. How had we ended up like this? Just hours ago, we had been working on the photo shoot, laughing and joking as friends.

Now, here I was, held tightly against him, his body warmth seeping into my skin. My mind was a whirlwind of emotions, trying to make sense of the sudden shift in our dynamic.

I could feel his chest rise and fall with every breath he took, the rhythm comforting and steady. Meanwhile, my heart was racing out of control, beating faster than I thought possible.

I couldn't understand how the atmosphere had changed so drastically. Just a moment ago, we had been talking like friends. Now, every inch of my body was aware of his touch, my senses overwhelmed by his presence.

Chris chuckled softly, his hands gently rubbing my back. “Relax,” he murmured, his voice soothing. “I don't want you dying on me. Your heartbeat is dangerously fast right now.

He pulled away slightly, just enough to meet my gaze. His eyes were filled with concern and amusement. “Are you alright?” he asked, his hands still holding onto my waist.

I took a moment to admire Chris, the setting sun illuminating his face and highlighting his features. The golden light brought out his freckles, which only seemed to appear when the sun shone directly on him.

His skin was dusted with a light scattering of tiny brown spots, a feature that I had never truly noticed before. Standing this close to him, I couldn't help but stare at them, mesmerized by their subtle beauty.

I lifted my hand, my fingers gently tracing the path of his freckles. I marveled at how they shimmered in the light, creating a unique pattern across his skin.

As I continued to explore his face, my hand moved to his cheek, caressing the smooth skin with my fingertips. My gaze met his, my eyes drawn to the intense blue of his irises. I felt like I could drown in them, the depths of his eyes holding me captive.

My fingers continued to roam over his face, tracing the contours of his cheek and jaw. The sunlight played across his features, enhancing the color of his eyes and the sharpness of his nose.

His lips were softly parted, the corners curving slightly upward in a hint of a smile. I traced the edge of his mouth with my thumb, feeling the warmth of his skin against mine. His eyelashes were long and dark, casting a shadow beneath his eyes.

All these details came together to create a face so stunning, it left me breathless.

I found myself lost in his gaze, the intensity of his eyes making my heart skip a beat. His freckles, like stars against the backdrop of his skin, added an element of boyish charm that only made him more endearing.

Chris remained silent, his eyes fixed on mine, seemingly enjoying my touch and the way I studied his features.

As I continued to explore the curves and contours of his face, I thought to myself that this was the first time I had ever been this close to Chris. I marveled at the feeling of his skin under my fingertips, the warmth and the texture unfamiliar and yet soothing.

A desire to memorize every detail, every freckle, every curve, consumed me. It was as if I wanted to trace a map on his skin and commit every part of him to memory, like engraving a poem on the walls of my mind.

I wanted to remember all his features from the way his eyebrows furrowed slightly when he was deep in thought, the way his eyes crinkled when he smiled. I wanted to remember the way his hair fell across his forehead when he tilted his head back in laughter, the way his hands felt in mine.

This closeness to him, the permission to study and admire him like this, was something I never wanted to forget.

Chris gently grabbed my hand, placing it against his larger one. Our fingers fit together like pieces of a puzzle. His hand was strong and firm, his fingers longer than mine, encompassing my hand completely.

He held our joined hands up, turning them slightly to inspect the size difference, his thumb rubbing my palm, the gesture both possessive and tender at the same time.

Chris guided my hand back to his cheek, holding it there as he closed his eyes. He leaned into my touch, his hand covering mine as he gently caressed the back of my hand.

His eyes remained closed, but a soft smile played on his lips, a look of contentment and bliss crossing his face. He seemed to relish the feeling of my palm against his skin, the warmth and the comfort of our connection.

Chris slowly opened his eyes, his gaze flicking from one of my eyes to the other, then lingering on my lips. His expression was intense, filled with a mixture of desire and something unreadable.

He stayed silent, his eyes locked onto mine, the air between us thick with tension. I could feel his heart beating rapidly against my chest, the steady thud echoing my own heightened pulse.

Chris leaned in closer, our faces now inches apart. His voice was soft, barely above a whisper, but the words he spoke sent shivers down my spine.

“Can I kiss you?” he murmured, his voice ragged with barely contained desire. His hand, still holding mine against his cheek, trembled slightly, the intensity of the moment clearly affecting him.

His gaze remained fixed on mine, searching my eyes for an answer. His breath was warm against my skin, his body so close I could feel the heat radiating off him. The room was silent, the sound of our combined breathing and the faint city noise outside the only things breaking the intense quiet.

I could tell he was holding back, his control barely hanging on by a thread. But it was the vulnerability in his eyes, the uncertainty in his question, that made my heart skip a beat.

I nodded, my words stuck in my throat. The gesture was enough.

Chris' hand moved from my hand to my chin, tilting my face up to meet his. His touch was gentle, his fingers tracing the line of my jaw as his lips moved towards mine.

The moment our lips met, it was as if a spark ignited. I brought my arm up, wrapping it around his neck, pulling him closer.

Our bodies pressed together, the space between us becoming non-existent. The kiss was gentle at first, a soft, tentative exploration of each other's lips. But soon, the heat between us intensified, our mouths moving more confidently, our breaths mingling as we clung to each other.

The last bits of sunlight streamed in through the window, bathing us in a warm, golden glow. The room was filled with a soft, almost dream-like ambiance, the light casting long shadows around us as the sun slowly set behind the city skyline.

As we lost ourselves in the kiss, the warm light danced across our skin, caressing us and creating an intimate bubble that shut out the outside world.

As the kiss broke, Chris leaned in closer, pressing his forehead against mine. Our noses lightly grazed each other, the sensation sending another wave of shivers down my spine.

His hand, still under my chin, continued to hold my face gently, as if anchoring me to him, while his breath came in ragged pants, his chest rising and falling against mine.

We stayed like that for a moment, the world around us ceasing to exist. All that mattered was the feel of his skin against mine, the sound of our labored breathing, and the rapid beat of our hearts. His eyes remained closed, his expression a mixture of yearning and satisfaction. I held onto his neck, unwilling to pull away just yet.

My fingers gently carding through his hair, the soft strands running through my fingers. The action seemed to draw Chris out of his reverie, his eyes opening slowly, a lazy smile curving his lips.

He looked at me, his gaze filled with affection and a hint of playfulness. One of his hands moved to my waist, pulling me closer against him, as if he couldn't bear the distance between us.

“I could stay like this forever,” he murmured, his voice deep and quiet. His hand on my waist traced small circles with his thumb, the gesture sending tiny sparks of electricity through my skin.

I could only respond with a small, contented hum, my fingers still playing with the hair at the nape of his neck. The sensation of his hand on my waist, the warmth of his body against mine, the sound of his voice, it all created a sense of safety and comfort that I wanted to hold onto a little longer.

Slowly, Chris shifted position, moving his head to rest in the crook of my neck. His breath tickled my skin as he settled against me, the weight of his body against mine both grounding and exhilarating.

I could feel his chest rising and falling against my own, the steady rhythm of his breathing an intimate and soothing sound. His arms wrapped tightly around my waist, holding me closer, as if trying to meld our bodies together.

After hours spent together, wrapped up in each other's arms, Chris reluctantly untangled himself from me, a soft, regretful sigh escaping his lips.

He stood up, stretching his limbs and running a hand through his hair, which was now tousled and unruly from my fingers playing with it. His t-shirt was slightly wrinkled, the fabric stretched in places from our earlier embrace.

Chris glanced over at me, his eyes roaming over my form on the bed, the sheets pooled around my waist. He let out a small sigh, his gaze filled with lingering desire, but also a hint of reluctance.

“What time is it?” he asked, his voice rough and tinged with a hint of tiredness. He reached for his phone, which was on the nightstand next to him.

His thumb swiped across the screen, unlocking the device and revealing the time. “It's late,” he said, the words almost a whisper. The light from the screen illuminated his face in the dim room, casting shadows and highlights across his features.

Chris lowered his phone, the screen darkening and plunging the room back into semi-darkness. He turned his attention back to me, a hint of sadness in his eyes.

“I should get going,” he murmured, his voice quiet yet filled with reluctance. He took a step towards the door, his gaze never leaving mine, as if he was trying to memorize the sight one last time.

I sat up in the bed, the sheets tangled around my waist, my heart already missing the feeling of his weight on the mattress.

“Are you sure?” I asked, my voice soft and almost pleading. “It's pretty late. You could stay...if you want to, that is.”

Despite his reluctance to leave, Chris couldn't resist the pull of my words. He crawled back onto the bed, moving closer to me, the mattress shifting under his weight. When he reached me, his face hovered just a few inches from my own.

“I would love to,” he whispered, his voice gruff with unspoken desire, “but I don't want to worry Matt and Nick by staying out too late. You know how they get.”

A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips, the mention of his brothers a soft, gentle reminder of the outside world that waited beyond our small bubble of intimacy. He reached a hand up to my face, his fingers tracing the line of my jaw, his thumb rubbing gently over my lips.

“I'll come back soon,” he promised, his voice filled with a quiet determination. “As soon as I can. I need to see you again.”

The look in his eyes told me he meant it. He wanted this, us, just as much as I did. But duty and responsibility called, and with a final, tender kiss to my forehead, he pulled away, slowly detangling himself from the bed.

Chris stood up and put on his shoes, the laces tied in double knots. I got out of bed, the sheets falling away, leaving me in just an oversized t-shirt that hung off one shoulder.

I walked with him to the door, every step feeling like a countdown, each moment bringing us closer to the moment I would watch him walk out that door.

Chris reached for the door handle, his hand hesitating briefly on the cool metal, as if trying to prolong the moment just a little longer. With a soft, almost inaudible sigh, he pulled it open, revealing the darkened hallway beyond.

The harsh glow of the hallway lights contrasted with the soft, warm light of my studio apartment, creating an almost stark division between us.

Chris turned to face me, his expression a mixture of reluctance and tenderness. The dim light from the hallway cast shadows across his face, emphasizing the sharp angles and harsh lines that usually softened in my presence.

His eyes met mine, the blue irises darkened in the dim light. The air was thick with unspoken words and the weight of our emotions, hanging heavy between us.

I crossed my arms, hugging myself, as if trying to hold onto the last trace of him before he left. An unconscious act of physical comfort.

“Text me when you're home,” I whispered, my voice soft yet firm, filled with a hint of worry. I wanted to know he was safe, that he had arrived back home without incident.

A small, almost imperceptible smile curved his lips at my words. He knew I was concerned about him. “I will,” he said, his voice reassuring. “I'll text you the moment I'm home.”

Chris lowered himself, bringing his face closer to mine. Instead of a single, lingering kiss, he peppered my lips with multiple, small, quick pecks, each one like a silent promise, a small assurance that this wasn't goodbye.

His lips were warm against mine, the fleeting touch of each kiss a soft, soothing comfort. Though brief, each press of his lips against mine sent a tiny spark of electricity through my body, reigniting the fire that had started earlier, and reigniting the desire to keep him, if only for a bit longer.

Chris' phone vibrated in his pocket, breaking the moment and bringing us back to reality. He withdrew slightly, fishing his phone out of his pocket with a grimace.

He checked the notification, the screen illuminating his face in the semi-darkness. “My Uber's here.”

Chris leaned in once more, his lips meeting mine in a final, longing kiss. The heat of it lingered, burning a memory in my mind.

“I'll see you soon,” he whispered against my lips, his voice filled with unspoken promises and an aching sort of sweetness.

He slowly pulled away, his hand reaching out to brush a strand of hair away from my face. His fingers lingered on my cheek for a brief moment, almost like he was committing the feel of my skin to memory.

Then, with a final, bittersweet smile, he turned and walked out the door, leaving me alone in the suddenly silent and empty apartment.

A few minutes later, as I lay on my bed, the sheets tossed and tangled, my phone beeped softly, a notification from an incoming text.

I reached over to grab it, my heart already fluttering in anticipation. The notification was a simple message from Chris: ‘I'm home.’

The sight of those words made a small, relieved sigh escape my lips. Knowing he was safe, that he had made it back without incident, was like a weight lifted from my shoulders. I quickly typed out a reply, a simple ‘Glad u made it home safe :)’ and hit send.

The response from Chris came quickly, the dots appearing on my screen as he typed out his message.

‘Whenever you're able to, can you send me the pictures from the photo shoot?’ he asked, the bluntness of the request almost amusing after the intimate moment we had shared.

I couldn't help but chuckle at his directness. Typical Chris, always straight to the point. I responded with a quick, ‘Sure, give me a moment to edit them.’

I got up from the bed, making my way to my desk where my laptop and editing software were set up. As I waited for the computer to start up, my mind once again wandered back to the moments shared with Chris.

The soft, sweet kisses, the feel of his skin under my fingertips, the sound of his voice, roughened with desire. The memories were like a vivid dream, one I wanted to hold onto, to experience again and again.

I sat down at my computer, the familiar soft hum of the machine comforting. As the software booted up, I began to edit the pictures of Chris. Adjusting the lighting, the contrast, the cropping to highlight the clothes best.

With every click and drag of the mouse, the photos came together, the final result something that would sell the clothes perfectly.

Once I was satisfied with the edits, I uploaded the pictures to the website, making sure they were in the right place, paired with the right piece of clothing. The clothing itself was already something that would make people take notice, the added flair of Chris' modeling made them almost irresistible.

Once all the pictures were set on the website and matched with the correct clothes, I grabbed my phone and opened up my messages. I navigated to the conversation with Chris and quickly sent all the pictures to him.

‘There you go,’ I typed out, hitting send with a satisfied smile.

I sent a follow-up message, fingers flying over the screen. ‘Also finished the website. Just let me know a date and time to open it up.’

My thumb hovered over the send button for a fraction of a second before I sent it, a flutter of excitement in my chest. This was it, the final step before his brand could launch into the world.

The response came back quickly, Chris' eagerness and excitement evident in his words. ‘I was thinking Friday around 12pm.’

I could almost hear his voice as I read the message. The confidence, the determination, all his usual traits coming through even in text form.

My heart skipped a beat. Friday was only a few days away. The culmination of all our hard work was coming to fruition.

I responded, a message that was both a confirmation and a silent reassurance. ‘Sounds good.’

Another message popped onto my screen, this time with an added note of concern. ‘Make sure you sleep now. I'll see you on Friday.’

A small smile tugged at my lips at his words. He knew me well. I'd probably stay up late, going over everything one last time to make sure it was perfect, especially now that we had a launch date.

‘I will, promise.’ I typed out, quickly hitting send. I knew he wouldn't believe me without a promise, but I was determined to get at least a few hours of sleep tonight.

Chris' response came back almost instantly, accompanied by a picture. It was a selfie, his face half buried into a pillow, exhaustion evident in his sleepy eyes. But his lips were turned up in a small, weary smile. Beneath the picture was a single word: ‘Goodnight :)’

I couldn't help but smile at the image of him lying in bed, his tousled hair and sleepy expression making my heart ache for him all over again.

I quickly sent back a text, a simple, ‘Sleep well, goodnight :)’ before locking my phone.

I finally climbed back into bed, the sheets cool against my skin. Every muscle in my body was tired, the events of the day catching up to me all at once.

As I laid my head against the pillow, I inhaled deeply, the faint scent of Chris on the sheets helping me relax even more. Within minutes, my eyes fluttered closed and I drifted off to sleep.

A/N: thank you for 500 followers! thought i would do a little fluff story as the milestone story taking a little break from the freakiness but for also celebrating 2 years of FRESH L♡︎VE <3 THANK YOU AGAIN I LOVE YOU ALL SM!!

⋆˙⟡ TAGS : @st6rify ✮⋆˙ @jetaimevous ✮⋆˙ @certifiedstarrr ✮⋆˙ @slvtf0rchr1s ✮⋆˙ @l3sbiancvnt ✮⋆˙ @wh0remikasas

── .✦ MASTER—LIST ⭑𓂃

[writingforstraykids]

Home - Jinnie Bday fic🖤

Pairing: OT8 x gnReader

Word Count: 1711

Summary: In Stray Kids you found a family in ways you would've never imagined. They were your home, your safe place, your everything.

Warnings/Tags: fluff, found family, 9th member

A/N: The happiest birthday to you my sweet Jinnie @jinnie-ret 🖤 I hope you were able to enjoy your day and I wish you only the best for your next year!! Hope you enjoy this little something🖤

do not repost, translate, or plagiarize my works in any way here or on other platforms. ©️writingforstraykids 2024 -

Your journey to find a family within Stray Kids wasn't an easy one, but it was undoubtedly one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. Each member brought something unique to the table, filling different roles in your life that you didn't even know you needed. From the very first day you met them, it was clear that this group of eight would become your family in ways you'd never imagined.

From the moment you became part of the group, Chan took you under his wing. His warm smile and welcoming demeanor immediately made you feel at ease. He was always there to guide you, whether it was through a tough choreography or just a rough day.

"Y/n, remember, it's not about being perfect. It's about doing your best and growing every day," Chan would often remind you with a reassuring smile.

Chan's presence in your life was akin to that of a protective older brother. He always knew when you were feeling down and needed a pep talk or just someone to listen. His dedication to the group and to you was inspiring, and his belief in your potential pushed you to strive for more.

Minho, with his sharp dance moves and even sharper wit, quickly became someone you could rely on for both comfort and a good laugh. He had a way of teasing you that always made you feel included and part of the group.

"Y/nnie, you call that a dance move? Even my cats can do better," he'd joke, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Despite his teasing, Minho was incredibly caring. He had a knack for knowing when something was wrong and would often check in on you with his unique brand of tough love. His duality of being both a playful friend and a compassionate confidant was something you cherished deeply.

Hyunjin, with his ethereal visuals and artistic flair, quickly became your creative soulmate. Whether it was painting, dancing, or just discussing life, Hyunjin had a way of making everything seem beautiful and meaningful.

“Let's paint the town red tonight, literally," he'd say, handing you a paintbrush with a grin.

Hyunjin's passion for the arts was contagious, and he often encouraged you to explore your creative side. His ability to find beauty in the mundane and his unwavering support helped you see the world through a different lens.

Changbin, with his fierce rapping skills and even fiercer determination, was the motivational coach you never knew you needed. His relentless work ethic and positive attitude were nothing short of inspiring.

“If you want something, you have to fight for it. We'll always support you, but you have to play your part," he'd often say, his eyes filled with intensity.

Changbin's tough love approach pushed you to your limits and helped you break barriers you didn't think were possible. His constant encouragement and belief in your abilities were a source of strength on your toughest days.

Jisung, with his infectious laughter, quickly became the lighthearted joker of your new family. His ability to make you laugh, even on your worst days, was a gift you cherished dearly.

"Y/nnie, Y/nnie, Y/nnie! Why did the-" he would say, bursting into laughter before he could even finish the joke.

Jisung's lighthearted nature and playful spirit brought joy and laughter into your life. His ability to find humor in any situation was a constant reminder not to take life too seriously and to always find reasons to smile.

Felix, with his deep voice and even deeper compassion, was the gentle heart of the group. His kindness and empathy knew no bounds, and he always seemed to know exactly what to say to make you feel better.

"Sometimes all you need is a little bit of patience and loads of cuddles,” Felix would say, his voice soothing and reassuring.

Felix's gentle nature and warm hugs were a constant source of comfort. His ability to listen without judgment and offer genuine support made him someone you could always turn to in times of need.

Seungmin, with his calm demeanor and wise insights, quickly became the voice of reason in your life. His ability to stay grounded and offer practical advice was something you came to rely on.

"It's okay to take a step back and breathe. Not everything has to be perfect," Seungmin would remind you, his voice steady and calm.

Seungmin's level-headedness and rational perspective were invaluable. His guidance helped you navigate the challenges you faced and made you appreciate the importance of balance and patience.

Jeongin, the youngest member of the group, quickly became the little brother you never had. His youthful energy and innocent charm were a breath of fresh air, and his admiration for you was heartwarming.

"Can you show me that dance move again? You're so cool!" he would say, his eyes wide with admiration.

Innie's enthusiasm and eagerness to learn from you made you feel appreciated and valued. His presence was a constant reminder of the joy of discovery and the importance of nurturing those who look up to you.

-

As time went on, you found yourself growing closer to each member, forming bonds that felt unbreakable. Each one of them brought something unique to your life, filling different roles that together created a sense of family you had always longed for.

One day, after a particularly grueling practice session, you all decided to unwind at the dorm. Chan suggested watching a movie, and everyone quickly agreed. You all settled into the living room, snacks in hand, ready to relax and enjoy each other's company.

"Y/nnie, you get to pick the movie," Chan said, tossing you the remote.

After much deliberation and playful arguing, you settled on a comedy, knowing it would lift everyone's spirits. As the movie played, you found yourself sandwiched between Minho and Jisung, both of whom provided a running commentary that had you in stitches.

"Why is he doing that? That's such a dumb move," Minho remarked, shaking his head.

"Right? I could've written a better script," Jisung added, making you burst into laughter.

Felix and Innie were engrossed in the movie, sharing a blanket and occasionally throwing popcorn at each other. Seungmin and Hyunjin were seated on the floor, discussing the cinematography and artistic elements, while Changbin and Chan were busy trying to outdo each other in a push-up contest during the commercial breaks.

"Y/nnie, care to join us?" Changbin asked with a challenging grin.

You laughed, shaking your head. "I'll leave the push-ups to you two. I'm quite comfortable here."

As the night went on, you felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for these moments. The laughter, the camaraderie, and the simple joy of being together were things you treasured deeply.

Of course, it wasn't always smooth sailing. There were times when tensions ran high, and disagreements were inevitable. But even in those moments, you found strength in your newfound family. One particularly challenging day stood out in your memory.

You were in the studio, working on a new track. The atmosphere was tense, as everyone was feeling the pressure to deliver something exceptional. Voices were raised, and frustrations were palpable.

"I think we should try a different approach," Chan suggested, his tone calm but firm.

You were feeling overwhelmed, and his suggestion felt like another critique. "I don't think that's the problem, Chan," you snapped, immediately regretting your tone.

The room fell silent, and you could feel the weight of your words. Chan took a deep breath, his expression softening. "Let's take a break."

As everyone dispersed, Felix approached you, his expression concerned. "Hey, it's okay to feel frustrated. We're all in this together."

You nodded, tears threatening to spill. "I just want to get it right."

Felix pulled you into a hug, his warmth comforting. "And we will. But we need to take care of ourselves too."

After a few moments, you rejoined the group, ready to try again. Chan's understanding smile and the supportive nods from the others reminded you that no matter how tough things got, you had a family to rely on.

For every challenge, there were also moments of triumph that you celebrated together. The day you released your first successful track as a group was one of the most memorable.

"Y/nnie, we did it!" Jisung exclaimed, pulling you into a jubilant hug.

The energy in the room was electric, as everyone danced and celebrated the hard-earned success. Min and Hyunjin were already planning a celebratory dinner, while Changbin and Innie were busy taking selfies to capture the moment.

"Group photo, everyone!" Seungmin called, setting up the camera.

As you all huddled together, arms around each other, you felt a profound sense of belonging. The smiles, the laughter, and the sheer joy in that moment were a testament to the bond you shared.

Looking back, you realized that finding your family in Stray Kids was a journey filled with highs and lows, laughter and tears. Each member brought something unique to your life, creating a sense of belonging that was irreplaceable.

Chan's protective nature and unwavering support made you feel safe and valued. Minho's teasing and tough love reminded you of the importance of balance and perspective. Hyunjin's artistic soul and passion for beauty inspired you to see the world through a different lens.

Changbin's motivational drive and fierce determination pushed you to achieve more than you ever thought possible. Jisung's lighthearted jokes and playful spirit brought joy and laughter into your life. Felix's gentle heart and deep compassion provided comfort and understanding.

Seungmin's calm demeanor and wise insights offered guidance and clarity, while Innie's youthful energy and admiration reminded you of the joy of discovery and growth.

In Stray Kids, you found not just friends, but a family that supported and uplifted you in ways you never imagined. The bond you shared with each member was a testament to the power of love, understanding, and unity.

As you looked around at your new family, you realized that you were exactly where you were meant to be. Together, you faced challenges, celebrated successes, and created memories that would last a lifetime. In Stray Kids, you found your home, your family, and your place in the world.

MASTERLISTS | PROMPT LIST | GUIDELINES

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[skyfallscotland]

We really need to talk about this obsession with toxic positivity in fandom.

There are corners of the internet (tumblr, reddit, in some respects AO3) that were made for discussion and exploration.

Part of being in fandom is, and has always been, discussing canon through a critical lens. This should be expected, not lambasted as if the creators themselves are going to read every post and be so viscerally offended they skip their dinner for the night.

If you’re required to only “be positive” about something, the community devolves into an echo chamber and that's boring. Going against the grain, believing something different, never used to make you a 'hater'. Where did we go so wrong that it’s perceived as such now?

Everyone has a valid viewpoint to add to any discussion, however my viewpoint is only welcomed if it’s in agreement with the majority of people—which it generally will never be given I am, in fact, a minority and therefore do not view the text through the same lens as most people. My lived experience means I don’t think like most of you, and I'm frustrated that I’m essentially told to sit in a corner and be quiet because of it. Why are you even posting under a discussion flair if any opinion different to yours is met with vitriol? You clearly don't want discussion.

Here’s the thing—you don’t love this book more than me just because you don't have any critiques. Your opinion is not more valid than mine (or anyone else's) because you lack the ability or the inclination to imagine, to explore, to question.

You (we, if I may) can love something and still believe it can be improved upon. Generally, if you love something, that is what you want—you want it to be the best it can be.

And even if you don't think the same way I do, here's the thing—ultimately, how the hell does it affect you if I don’t agree with an aspect of the text or your interpretation of it? My criticism of the way certain books are lauded for bare bones disability rep or their inclusivity when they have *checks notes* a character of ambiguous skin tone, should have no bearing on your enjoyment of the book. My opinion that a character has ambiguous morals should have no bearing on your enjoyment of the character.

You wanna know what I think it is? (You don't, but I'm going to tell you anyway)—people seek to find themselves in stories. We want to feel seen, that’s normal. But now, especially in these fandoms, people are getting the lines blurred. They’re getting their identities completely entangled with these books.

It’s ok to love something, but to become so entrenched in it that you can’t separate the book from your own sense of self? That's dangerous.

These unfortunate people need you to say only ultra-positive things about it because anything else is perceived as an attack on them and who they are—because they think they are the things they enjoy. Positive opinions on the text and its characters, in line with their own, are self-validation for them.

Enjoying something doesn’t mean it has to be a part of your identity. Things can be beloved and formative without affecting your self-esteem and sense of worth.

And I think, for me at least, it all trickles down to this: at the end of the day, if I disagree with something, I attempt to counter the opinion, that's how my brain rolls—people who disagree with 'being negative' (and I say that with the utmost derision, because usually it’s not negativity at all) don't have an argument that you're wrong, they just don't think you should talk about it. They go straight to attacks and vitriol, and telling you to get out.

You can still like something and admit it’s flawed.

There are a great many things I love about my fandoms, I just don't always mention them because it's been covered already 😉 Why bring up something ten other people already have day in, day out?

In closing, I'll leave you with this:

Even when fandom is being critical, it ultimately comes from a place of optimism and devotion, one that centers on the hope that a beloved property might stop fucking everything up and start being good again, x

Oh, and no, I won't "quit reading fantasy" just because I want to see a protagonist with my physical limitations. That's ableist as fuck. Have the day you deserve!