#like I know the last line is what everyone likes but tada once again

[whiskeyswifty]

Without getting too much into it, the most heartbreaking line in the manuscript to me is “She knew what the agony had been for” because all the time she didn’t even realize what had happened to her. She’d clearly denied it, dismissed it, insisted that no it wasn’t like that, she was an adult! She was capable of making her own choices! Maybe she didn’t want to taint happy memories. He was just a shitty boyfriend and they broke down and broke up like all couples do. She knew what it looked like but no no, she was fine in that regard. He never… no she wasn’t a victim like that. And yet…. She couldn’t move past it, couldn’t lay it to rest. Wondering why she agonized over it, felt sick over it, went over it again and again, haunted by it unlike other breakups. It took all those years and making the short film and seeing 20 year old Sadie Sink in that room with adults and fighting with an adult man to realize oh…. She’s a child. They were right. That is what happened to me. I was a child. And the deluge of pain that comes with finally confronting that. The song drops off after that, the pain unspeakable, and skips to the present, where after exorcising that demon finally, “all that’s left is the manuscript.” And she can finally close the book on that story in her life and not have it define her anymore. But that line really just hits home how long she had been carrying the burden of that unspoken and unresolved truth, buried under denial, slowly festering and poisoning her for some 10 years. God damn.

[mlobsters]

supernatural s12e22 who we are (w. robert berens)

i don't usually read the summary on netlix (or elsewhere) but "undying trust" had my brain snap into focus in no time flat.

working with their torturer, whatever man. no worse of an offense than the whole bmol plotline 🤪

SAM I mean, I've read half a dozen purification rituals in the last hour. If we used one of those on – on our blood... DEAN Then what? Revirginize it?

was thinking too about that whole born again virgin episode (9x08) because of course they've done that before!

DEAN You know, it wasn't long ago, I thought we had it made. We saved the world. We got Cass back. We had Mom back. I mean, it wasn't perfect, but still, we had 'em. And now... SAM Now they're all gone. And Mom, what they did to her... I just fell for their company line. Man, I... I saw what they were doing, and I – and I thought, Hunters on that scale, working together... how much good we can do. And once I was in, I... I just followed. 'Cause it was easy. Easier. DEAN Easier than what? SAM Easier than leading.

the relief of letting someone else make some decisions is a big one, if you can do it. the idea of leading feels a little out of left field though since it's basically just him and dean on equal footing and occasionally working with other people? being independent contractors vs employees

SAM Is this how you pictured it? The end? DEAN Oh, you know it's not. I always thought we'd go out like... Butch and Sundance style. SAM Yeah. Blaze of glory.

never not gonna dwell on how dean actually goes out.

good for dean, finally gets to use his boom stick

and good for us, this exchange of looks. surprisingly cute and sweet

and tada look at that our heroes are safe at the last moment all wrapped up in ten minutes. on to next drama, stopping mary from killing jody and the rest of the hunters. old mom not allowed to kill new mom

JODY When she clocked me out of the blue, I thought she was a demon. I had no idea that brainwashing could be so thorough. DEAN Jody, she... I'm so sorry. JODY It's not your fault.

man, i really have come to love jody and her dynamic with them. within the story, bobby obviously played a bigger role for them as a parental figure, but for me kim rhodes is so good at connecting with them and playing up that kind of particular familial teasing/bickering/fondness - she makes me believe that she really is family to them. not just the, we like you, so we're adopting you thing they do with everyone they come across these later seasons.

❤️

samantha smith also doing a job at being creepy killer mary, so serene

TONI The Mary that you know, the good Mary, she's hiding behind impenetrable psychic walls. And I'm afraid these walls... Well, they can't be torn down with grenades. Your mother can't be saved.

if cas could pick out the hallucifer from sam's brain, surely he could fix mary's brain too. especially with a baby lucifer powerup, right. (oh no, come to edit, we're doing it with the power of love!)

WALT Well, damn. ROY We haven't seen you guys since – DEAN Since you killed us. No hard feelings.

awkward. in the flashback they just show them getting both shot in sequence, i'd forgotten they killed sam and then argued over leaving dean alive, decided against it and went ahead and killed him too. 5x16. me thinking is dean glancing at his chest remembering how he got shot 🥲

well sammy's getting a big, "he's a leader" speech

SAM Um, so my – my brother and I, we – we, um... No, you know what? I called you here because people... um, our people, are being slaughtered. And we're next. The British Men of Letters, they came here because they thought they could do our job better than we could. And they hooked us with their flashy gear and their tech. Most of you had the good sense to turn 'em down. I didn't. They said they wanted the same thing we wanted, you know? A world free of monsters. That's not what they really wanted. They want control. They want to live in a world where they can sit in some office and decide who gets to live and who gets to die. And they've killed people. They've killed innocent people just because they got in the way. They think the ends justify the means. But we know better. We know hunting isn't just about killing. It's about doing what's right, even when it's hard. So we go by our gut, right? We play by our own rules, and that scares them. That's why they want us dead, 'cause we're the one thing they can't control.

all right. at least the music wasn't too much. the words though? it's just too much.

SAM I want you to follow me. Take the fight to them. To hit them before they hit us. We go in fast and hard and we fight and we beat them down until they give up or until they're dead. Look, they're well-trained and well-armed. Some of us might not make it back. But we will win. We will take down the bad guys because that's what we do. They're scared of us. Yeah. Good. They should be.

by this second part, i started giggling. so out of nowhere and cliche

and today, we celebrate our independence day or perhaps but the waters receded

my brother in sweat, poor jared. jensen slackin on towel duty. wonder if he struggled with the scene or just that it's a long speech so more time to be sweating visibly

DEAN No, my leg busted up the way it is, I'm no good in a fight. SAM I-I'll take a jacked-up Dean Winchester over any 10 other Hunters any day.

aww, sammy

DEAN Yeah. I saw you. You're ready for this. You show those sons of bitches who's boss.

this separation is a little contrived but okay, not going to complain that we get a nice moment out of it. the very special episode where sam gets to slip into a leadership role and succeed and dean gets to be the proudest brother/partner

DEAN You got this. Come here. You come back. SAM Promise. DEAN Bitch. SAM Jerk.

well that you come back / promise is what made me cry. and wasn't in the copy of the script linked on the wiki (production draft). so thank you to to whoever brought that about

oh no they've deployed a sweet little chunk for sam now i'm really going to cry. also know a conversation that's coming since i've seen gifs of it many times

they made this bmol bed so maybe a big dumb shootout action sequence was the only way to lie in it but it sure is a lot less... compelling, compared to what dean's doing. course, every time we're in the old house with mary (2x20, 5x16) it's in an episode i sobbed my way through. so. that's doing some of the work for them here too

DEAN You lied to me. I was a kid. You promised you'd keep me safe. And then you make a deal with Azazel. Yeah, it saved Dad's life, but I'll tell you something else that happened. Because on November 2, 1983, old Yellow Eyes came waltzing in to Sammy's room, because of your deal. You left us. Alone. 'Cause Dad was just a shell. His perfect wife? Gone. Our perfect Mom, the perfect family... was gone. And I... I had to be... more than just a brother. I had to be a father and I had to be a mother, to keep him safe. And that wasn't fair. And I couldn't do it.

💔

DEAN And you wanna know what that was like? They killed the girl that he loved. He got possessed by Lucifer. They tortured him in Hell. And he lost his soul. His soul. All because of you. All of it was because of you.

(i know this isn't the point, he's just trying to get through to her, but my little hand mentally raises like this was all far beyond any of their control)

DEAN I hate you. I hate you. And I love you. 'Cause I can't – I can't help it. You're my Mom. And I understand...'cause I have made deals to save the ones I love more than once.

trying to think of when he's done it for someone besides sam.

DEAN I forgive you. I forgive you. For all of it. Everything. On the other side of this, we can start over, okay? You, me, Sam. We can get it right this time. But I need you to fight. Right now, I need you to fight. I need you – I need you to look at me, Mom. I need you to really look at me and see me. Mom, I need you to see me. Please.

jensen did good with this one. later seasons he seems to not quite get there as intense with the emotions all the time like he did in early seasons, but he definitely got there in this one. and that was a long speech too

glad we didn't need to face any more redemption arc with torturer lady, killed ignominiously offscreen (ok i had to look up the spelling/definition to doublecheck and realized in my head i had dropped an entire syllable AND listening to the pronunciation had it way wrong. good thing i've never tried to say that out loud lol at best i think i was thinking ig-NO-muss-ly instead of ig-no-MIN-ee-uss-ly)

here at least is a throwdown that i can get behind, we've got many reasons to hate this dude and wanna see dean beat the shit out of him

get him, mary

huh. interesting they had jody kill evil bmol dr hess lady too

! elusive triple hug. sammy's having a real moment

SAM Mom. You don't have to be scared of me. (Sam walks over and hugs Mary. Dean walks over and places a hand on Sam's shoulder) DEAN Glad you're back, man.

no bonus winchester packed hug in this script either

well. that had a lot of good family hurt/comfort for me personally, and pretty light on the hurt. thank you, show. i will take it and jam it all in my pockets.

so are they gonna wrap up lucifer next episode, or is that setting the stage for next season? i have very little idea of what happens in these late-late seasons. vaguely, that a kline descendant is involved. not much more than that

(yikes just scrolled to the top of this post, this is very long)

[hintofelation99]

Hi! I love your posts and want to ask your opinion on something. Who do you think in the batfam has the most and the least common sense of a normal person? If you can, can you also list how they are arranged? Thank you!

Ooohhh, this is a fun one! In my mind all bats lack common sense. Like obviously they're hella smart, after all they are a family of detectives, they just aren't very bright.

Here's a quick rundown (least to most): Tim and Dick tie for first place, both lack common sense in just in completely different ways. Then Damian (mostly cause of the whole 'being raised by league of assassins' thing), Bruce, Cass (controversial ik), Steph, Jason, Duke, Babs, and last on the list is obvs Alfred. (Kate is probs between Cass and Steph, but I've only really seen her in the DCAMU and need to get to know her better).

And Ima add a 'keep reading' cause this is gonna get long.

Tim:

Tim is one of the smartest in the family. He deduced Batman's identity as a child, majorly fucked up the League of Assassins, and has been honored (I say this v sarcastically just btw) with Ra's creepy obsession. He's smart, plain and simple. However, when it comes to just day to day survival and being loved, goddamn that boy is dumb.

He regularly mixes energy drinks and coffee. Sometimes he even mixes energy drinks, alcohol, and coffee.

In his mind warnings are optional. "Tim, did you just sniff that drano?" "Yeah, why?" "IT LITERALLY SAYS DO NOT SMELL" "Oops"

He regularly tests shit on himself. "Why is Tim on the floor?" "He mixed joker venom and fear gas to see what would happen" "HE WHAT"

Also if you try to compliment him or tell him you love him he will find a way to misunderstand. "Tim, I love you and you are an amazing son." "I don't know who this Tim is but he sounds great" "It- it's you, literally you. Timothy Jackson Drake." "I'm a bit confused, I didn't know you knew two Timothy Jackson Drakes. You should really introduce us."

Dick:

Dick in many ways is a total himbo. He's a complete sweetheart, super supportive, and very ditzy. His ditzy-ness directly correlates to how relaxed he is. Chilling in the manor? Peak himbo. A mission in space? Absolute genius and amazing leader. Just took down a bunch of thugs? Slowly reverting into dopey boi. He always has the ability to be super analytical, smart, and big brain, but he likes being whimsical and even airheaded. And that's not a bad thing, it's just him taking mental breaks, being lighthearted.

"YOU PUT DIESEL IN YOUR CAR?" "...Yeah, in my defense the nozzles look basically the same" "They're different colors?! Also the diesel nozzle doesn't even fit into your gas tank, how did you get it in?" "I'm a good pourer."

He always responds to the word dick and it always confuses him. "God Ra's is such a dick!" "What?" "Ra's is a dick" "I'm not Ra's!" "Wha- no! I mean penis dick!" "Ohhhh, yeah he is a penis dick"

Once Dick is safe he reverts into himbo pretty quickly, even after stressful situations. "Hey Wally?" "Yes babe?" "I forgot how to change my lock screen again" "Dick, you just hacked into an alien spaceship not even an hour ago??" "What's that have to do with anything?"

Damian:

Damian lacks common sense from growing up with the League of Assassins. He's an amazing warrior and super analytical but casual human interaction alludes him. He is getting better though, so eventually he'll be lower on the list than Steph. But for now he's a senseless bby.

The first time someone tried to give him high five he assumed it was an attack and flipped them. Same with a fist bump.

This is complete canon but his original treatment of Alfred, his brothers, and, well, everyone. Like bby boy please read the room.

His ego can easily override common sense. Like he wouldn't jump off a bridge if everyone else was doing it, but if someone said he couldn't he'd immediately swan dive off that bridge.

Bruce:

For the world's greatest detective he can be a major dumb bitch sometimes. Some of it's growing up rich and some is being so wrapped up in his 'crusade for justice' that he just misses basic shit.

One time he walked in on Roy and Jason making out, the next day he saw them cuddling, then they mentioned moving in together. It took him three months to realize that they're dating.

He doesn't understand coupons, like at all. Jason has tried to explain them but Bruce just gets even more confused.

Bruce tried to make coffee once. He literally just poured coffee beans in water and microwaved it. He was surprised when it didn't taste good.

Cass:

Cass is similar to Damian in she lacks common sense from an unconventional upbringing. However she's learning way faster than Damian and depending on where in the timeline you're looking she might have more common sense than Babs.

Basic things like lines, turn taking, and speaking when spoken to aren't innate to her. Like, she knows and understands them, but often forgets about them.

There are many times that she blurs the line between civilian and vigilante because she'll do something that looks v stupid and dangerous for a civilian. The thing is she never notices when she does this.

One time she was in a restaurant and there was a cockroach on the wall across the room (cause Gotham) and instead of getting up and killing it like a normal person she threw her steak knife and impaled it.

Steph:

Steph is probably lacks common sense the most conventional yet slightly concerning way. She lacks common sense in the same way a cartoon character or sitcom character would. Like it's sorta realistic but at the same time damn bby girl why are you such a disaster??

She will do anything on a dare. Anything. There is a rule against daring Steph to do things while in the manor or on patrol.

Every time she hears someone say Red Robin she yells yum. This has gotten both her and RR shot.

Steph is v lucky that 1) she's a badass and 2) the batfam loves her because she annoys absolutely everyone just for shits and giggles and the only reason she hasn't been murdered is that Cass scares everyone.

Jason:

All common sense is lost when dramas at stake. Say what you will but Jason is the (second) biggest drama queen in the family. Also he, like most bats, lacks a sense of self preservation which leads to shit common sense.

He tried to steal Batman's tires.

Sometimes he listens to music during patrol and tries to hit people/shoot on beat. This has lead to stab wounds.

Jason loves to loudly quote classic literature while on stake outs. This is a problem for obvious reasons.

Duke:

Ok this is around the time you get to average common sense levels. But he still runs around Gotham beating people up in tights (or kevlar) so he doesn't get full points. Also he's still not Babs level common sense. One area Duke lacks common sense in is how to deal with the Batfam (which is v understandable tbh)

One time Duke was joking around with Jason and decided to steal a roll off of Damian's plate. This ended in blood.

Other than lacking Batfam common sense, most of his poor judgement moments are less notable but still concerning.

For example the time he challenged Dick to a hot dog eating contest then went on a roller coaster.

Babs:

Other than being a vigilante Babs almost has normal human common sense. However being a vigilante has negative side effects on ones common sense.

While Babs' sleep schedule isn't as bad as Tim's it's not a whole lot better. She's stayed up 72 consecutive hours multiple times.

She has accidentally poured coffee onto her computer instead of into a coffee mug.

One time she drank an entire gallon of milk before realizing it was a month expired.

Alfred:

Most assume that working for Bruce Wayne is a sign of him lacking common sense. But nah, it's him knowing, understanding, and challenging his own limits. Also it's him being a charitable human being. Like he has enough common sense to go around and tbh it's the only thing keeping the family alive.

"Master Bruce, you may not use Elmer's Glue All to close a wound."

"Master Dick I would encourage you not to teach Master Duke acrobatics on the glass coffee table."

"Miss Stephanie I would not advise trying to consume an entire jar of peanut butter in one sitting, and no, I do not care if Master Jason dared you to."

Tada, there's the list! Sorry that was probably a lot longer than anyone wanted, but I enjoy talking about how ditzy the batfam is. Like they're all geniuses but at the same time they're just sooooo dumb.

[alittleimagine]

just a favor pt. 1

derek hale x reader 

prologue

Derek looked tense. You understood why- it wasn’t every day a person brought a fake significant other for a holiday dinner with their parents- but, it simply wouldn’t do. 

You had this. You were going to be the best fake girlfriend the Hales had ever seen. Hell, if Derek’s purported terrible taste in women was true then you were likely to be the best girlfriend they’d ever seen fake or otherwise. 

Now you just had to make Derek believe it. 

You jotted down ‘basketball fans’ in your notebook and tapped the pen to your lips. “We should probably discuss any pet names.” You said. Your natural inclination was to watch him until his ears turned pink again, but he already looked ready to lose it at any moment and that was the opposite of your goal this time around. Instead, you kept your eyes on your paper, even if you watched him from the periphery. 

When you’d met with him days ago to start getting details together it was obvious he had no idea what he was doing. That was fine, you had plenty of experience with fanfiction and Hallmark movies.

From the corner of your eye you could see Derek glance your way. He didn’t look alarmed, per se, but he was far from relaxed. 

“Pet names?”

“Yeah. You know- honey, babe, snookums?” There was no way in hell you would ever seriously call Derek snookums, but if calling him things like Sugar Butt or Honey Bunches made his ears turn that pretty shade of pink you would have some fun with it. “If we’re going to use any kind of nickname we want to get in the habit so it sounds normal and not weird.” 

You angled yourself toward him, dropping the pretense of reading the same five lines on your notebook. 

He furrowed his brow, looking deep in thought. “I don’t know. Jennifer hated pet names.”

Jennifer. Hated enough that even sweet Kira had ranted and raved for weeks after she dumped Derek. If this was going to work, you thought, he could not talk about her. 

“Okay. New rule number one. If you want your family to believe you are over your heinous ex, it’s best not to mention her.” You said. “As far as you’re concerned any mention of Jennifer should prompt a ‘Jennifer who?’ in your mind. New girlfriends don’t like the mention of old girlfriends.”

He winced. “You’re right.”

“Also, screw whatever Jennifer liked or didn’t like. I’m asking 

Derek Hale, what you’re comfortable with.”

For a moment he said nothing, then nodded resolutely. There was the slightest loosening of his shoulders and you smiled to yourself. 

“You can call me whatever. Except snookums.” He added in a rush. 

You snorted. 

“I don’t know what I’ll call you though. It might just be Y/N.” 

“That’s fine. Go with whatever feels normal. I’m probably going to call you babe. Or Derek. Or D- you can blame Stiles for that one. Who knows.” You shrugged. Without thinking about it, you wrote ‘babe’ onto a separate line of the notebook. 

“Are you really taking notes?” The car slowed as you pulled up to a light and Derek took the opportunity to look over at the little blue and gold journal you’d been fiddling with for most of the car ride. 

“Not quite,” you said, unsure how to properly explain it, “I’m never going to review the notes or study them. But, jotting things down just helps me organize my thoughts and remember things. We’re planning a classic fake dating holiday shenanigan here- you want me on my A-game.”

“I can’t believe you even agreed to this.” He muttered as he started driving again. 

Malia and Kira had not been surprised at all when you’d told them. Kira had spit out her apple cider when you barged into the coffee shop you’d planned to meet them at and declared that you were now dating Malia’s cousin (Kira never failed to give you a good reaction), but after hearing the rest there had only been knowing nods. 

When you’d moved to Beacon Hills Derek had been almost a year into the ill-fated relationship with Jennifer. You’d been introduced to both of them at the same time by Stiles and Jennifer had seemed like a perfectly friendly person, but the face Stiles made when they turned their backs had been plenty indication that she was not the most well-loved. 

You never spent any time with Jennifer directly. As you began to fold more and more into the close circle of friends you noted that she never went to movie night and she never joined the girls for sushi. Lydia had insisted that they’d tried to be nice and include her in the beginning, but that hadn’t lasted long.

“There was pretty much zero chance I would turn this down.” 

The truth was Derek was a babe and so much your type it was almost painful, but you’d always assumed he didn’t like you very much. When he’d asked you to fake date him you’d figured either he didn’t dislike you as much as you’d thought or he was really desperate. Either way, you couldn’t say no.

“Because you’re a little crazy?” 

You flicked his arm with your pen. “Never mind, rule number one is don’t ever call your girlfriend crazy. Don’t call any woman crazy just to be safe.” You said.

“Noted.” He looked like he was trying not to smile and that was reassuring. “But, really, why would you say yes to a Thanksgiving pretending you’re my girlfriend in front of mostly strangers?” 

You shrugged. “How often does an opportunity like that come up?” He didn’t need to know that you wanted to become friends and that it wasn’t hard to pretend to be head over heels for him. “Besides, you looked really desperate. Who was your next option? Stiles in a dress?”

The image flashed in your head the moment you said it. 

“I should have said no. That would have been hilarious.”

“If you’d said no I would have had to fake some terrible accident.” 

You snorted. “And they say I’m dramatic.” You tapped your pen to the paper and wracked your brain for anything you might have missed. “Okay, let’s walk through it.” You said as you turned in the car seat to face him.

“Kira and Malia will arrive tomorrow morning, and they are prepared with our basic story. Which is as simple as possible. The more detail you give unprompted, the easier it is to spot a lie. I got to town, thought you were way hot,” Derek flushed and you added another mark to your mental tally, “but you were with Jennifer. You guys broke up, you got over it, we were hanging out with everyone else, you realized I am also way hot, we got together. Simple.” 

Derek, blush slowly fading, nodded again. “And if they ask for details we tell them about running into each other a couple of times on our own. At the pizza place first. Then the coffee shop the next time. And talked.” He said it like he was still trying to memorize every detail.

“I kissed you first. And tada, we’ve been together since then.” 

You’d kept it all simple and common on purpose. No one questioned such an every-day story. Both of Derek’s sisters had been to Beacon Hills to visit him since you’d moved to town so there were restrictions to keep in mind as well. 

A thought struck you. “Hey, pull over into the next gas station.”

Derek glanced at you quickly. “You need something?” He asked, already flicking the turn signal on. 

“Park to the side.” You said, then waited until he’d pulled all the way into a parking spot to unbuckle your seatbelt. You looked at him very seriously. 

The crease in his brow deepened. “Is everything okay?” Hesitantly he turned his body to face you. 

“We need to kiss.” 

“What?” Forget his ears and neck, you were sure Derek was red to the tips of his toes. He gaped at you and looked around the car once as though some invisible passenger had more information. 

“Relax. Breathe.” You had discussed physical contact days ago. He knew to expect casual touching from you and cheek kisses were a given. He knew that there was a chance you’d have to kiss-kiss because, as you’d said, ‘assuming we won’t is a surefire way to have a kiss demanded’. “I’m not talking making out, heavy tongue action, getting steamy in the 7-11 parking lot.”

He ran a hand over his face. 

“But, chances are the occasion for us to kiss will come up. I don’t know about you but I don’t typically make out in front of my mom, but kissing on the lips seems pretty standard.” When he nodded you went on. “So we should probably not have the first time we kiss be at that awkward moment. No one will believe us if we can’t even find each other’s lips.” 

Derek leaned his head back against the seat and took a deep breath. “You’re right.” He said. 

“I know. I usually am.” 

He rolled his eyes but it seemed like the casual arrogance was doing something to relax him. He sat up straight and turned to you again. “Let’s do this then.”

You adjusted in the seat, folding a leg under you and leaning forward. You expected Derek to be hesitant like he’d been about every other step of the way, but he seemed resolute when he reached forward to wrap his hand around the base of your skull and pull you in.

The kiss was chaste- nothing but a warm press of his lips to yours, but the heat of his hand against your neck was extremely distracting. 

You pulled back first, schooling your expression into something you hoped read amused and not like you wanted to give that another shot. 

Derek quickly sat back into his seat. His face gave nothing away, but you thought you could see pink crawling up his neck.

The place where his hand had been only a moment ago now felt cold. Unconsciously your hand moved to cover the spot while you leaned back in your seat and buckled up. “There.” You said. Your voice was steady and casual. “Now that that’s done, we can keep going.”

Derek cleared his throat and glanced your way before he buckled his seatbelt and pulled out of the parking spot. 

There was a tension in the car that you hadn’t felt before the practice kiss. It could not be allowed to continue. 

You reached down to pick your notebook back up. You clicked the pen open and tapped it against your bottom lip. “So, let’s be honest, which of your sisters is going to want to embarass you most?”

Derek groaned. 

[wannabe-fic-writer]

Natasha Romanofff x Reader : Thin Line

Summary: You’re wild and free. She’s strict and trained. You and Natasha are polar opposites and it drives her crazy. Each move you make annoys her to no end. But, there’s a thin line between annoyance and adoration.

Rating: 18+ Violence, Mentions of Death, and Smut

Side Note: This is the final chapter of Thin Line. Before you read I’d like to thank you so much for reading my fic and I’m assuming if you read this far you like it. Fee free to stick around for the many fics and imagines to come. Love You 3000❤️

Chapter 11

They had been flying for hours. Sam fell asleep, almost instantly, after he got on the jet. Wanda had fallen asleep an hour after Sam, her mind had been reeling far too much for her to settle at first.

Steve was piloting(technically the jet is in autopilot so he wasn’t) but that didn’t steal his air of authority. Bucky having just been left in Wakanda.

And Natasha.

The red head had firmly planted herself in a seat near the jets door an hour after boarding.

Steve spoke to her before then. He knows how much she loves you and had to make sure she was one hundred percent on board with leaving. She assured him she was.

While she still stands by that, her heart was seemingly screaming at her, aching at your absence and her decision to leave.

Those feelings is exactly why, for majority of the flight, she had been staring at a picture. The only picture she ever bothered to hold on to: one you had taken on your second date.

****Flashback****

“Natasha, babe, we fight lunatics and terrorists for a living, and you’re telling me you’re scared of a rollercoaster?” You stood beside her with a teasing grin, the large metal contraption in front of you.

She rolled her eyes and mushed your face,“ I’m not scared of anything. I just don’t want to get on.” Her eyes then skeptically watched passerby.

You, noticing that she was slipping into Widow mode, grabbed her hands and pulled her closer,“ what if we,” you stretched the word and looked around,“ go to the beach instead.”

She’s still hesitant. It’s not often that she subjects herself to being out in the open like this, but you had pouted and fucked her into giving in. Turns out your adorable face mixed with a mind blowing orgasm was the perfect kryptonite.

“Come on Natty,” you tried one more time,“ just for a couple minutes. I don’t want our date to end just yet.”

Once again, you pulled a pout, eyes softening just enough to make her groan and look away.

“Fine, fine,” before you could cheer she added,“ but only for a couple of minutes.”

“Perfect.”

The two of you had walked off Coney Island and down to the beach. You took her to, what looked like, the only secluded spot, and pulled her into your lap on the sand.

With the sun ending it’s appearance in the sky, stars scattered above you and pink and orange streams painted across the horizon.

“Picture time!” You exclaimed childishly, whipping your phone out, and holding it up.

“No.” Her quick response halted your actions.

Leaning back to look at her, you asked,“ do you not want to remember this moment?”

“I’ll remember.” She assured.

“But I might forget. This picture is for me!” You then smushed your lips on to her cheek and took the picture, but not before she could cover her face.

The stupid grin she pulled hidden by her hands.

****End Flashback****

Despite her not wanting to take the picture, she stole it from you the moment you had it printed off.

And now it sat in her hands, the top corners dogeared from her fidgeting.

She needs this picture, just in case. In case you don’t find her clues. In case you can’t crack her password and encryption. In case she never sees you again, intentionally or not.

She needs her memories of you.

“Romanoff!”

Her eyes linger on the picture, before she’s pocketing it, and going over to Steve.

“We’re ten minutes out, mind waking Sam and Wanda?”

Natasha simply nods and sets off to do just that. Her hand rests on Wanda’s shoulder, gently shaking the young witch.

“Maximoff, wake up.”

Wanda has never been much of a heavy sleeper so she wakes with that little effort, saying a small, sleepy, “alright” with a rub of her eyes.

Sam however doesn’t wake as easily. The gentle shaking just makes him mumble “five more minutes mom,” before drifting back off. Harsher shaking makes him groan and complain, rolling over to face the inside of the seats.

Natasha decides to just roll him off the chairs.

His body slams on to the floor and that just barely wakes him up. Still laying on the ground, he yawns and rubs his eyes with his fist.

“Wilson get up, we’re here.” Steve’s stern yet gentle voice says.

This has everyone moving to get the few things they did have.

Here is a safe house in Spain.

Steve had lifted a list of them from paper files at the compound, crossing referencing with the ones listed on the computer files. He narrowed it down to a few that could only be found on paper and took them.

It didn’t mean they were completely untraceable, but it would take a lot more than a look up to find them.

The small group walks through a span of woods were the jet is hidden, to the safe house. Before entering they survey the area.

Upon finding nothing, they go inside.

Feeling just the slightest bit safer, everyone slumps sigh exhaustion.

“We’ll move in the morning just in case someone managed to find us, but for now everyone rest up.” Steve’s voice rings over the small group with the same commanding tone he took with all the Avengers.

Everyone nods and heads into opposite rooms, except Natasha and Wanda, both seemingly frozen in the loss of the people they love.

It’s the brunette Witch who breaks the sad silence,“ do you think they’ll forgive us?” 

Natasha feels the tears spring into her eyes.

Leaving you was the last thing she wanted but the decision has been made. She can’t take it back now. She’s also a fugitive at this point.

“They’ll forgive us.” She tries to assure,“ hell they probably don’t think we need to be forgiven. Just,” the red head takes in a deep breath and places a gentle hand on her friends shoulder,“ shower, get some rest, you’ll feel better in the morning.”

Despite her saying that, she doesn’t believe it. Why should she when she knows it won’t work. 

Not having you is like not having her heart or soul, no shower or sleep could ever make that feeling better.

It’s why she cries the second she’s out of the shower and in her room. The tears she managed to hold at bay pour from her eyes as she nearly curls into a ball on the small couch. 

That sadness, however, is short lived.

“Awe, don’t tell me those tears are for me Pretty Girl.”

She hadn’t know what this felt like. To have her hope be fulfilled. Truthfully she’d never really had hope before but she hoped in you and this- this euphoria, it feels amazing.

She left you clues and you followed them because why wouldn’t you? She’s the love of your life and you’d be damned if you just let her get away.

You found her. Her trust in your intelligence was well placed. As was her trust in your feelings for her.

Wiping her nose with the sleeve of your (stolen) shirt, she sniffs, and looks up at you. Green teary eyes meet yours and you smile at how beautiful she is even when sad.

“You’re so annoying Y/L/N.”

You step closer, taking her deathly delicate hands in yours. The warm smile you pull still manages to be cocky in some way and it drives Natasha crazy.

Pulling her up and into your arms you say,“ as if I’d let you slip away.”

Her eyes are roaming over your body just to ensure that you’re actually here,“ I was hoping you wouldn’t.”

Natasha wraps her arms around your waist and hugs you to her. You return the hug, breathing in that cinnamon and vanilla scent you had begun to miss over those few hours.

But Natasha knows you, and she knows you won’t let the silence last, which is why she’s already smiling and shaking her head when you break it.

“How could you not, I’m fuckin awesome.” You over dramatically wink at her.

The red head rolls her eyes, a small laugh on her lips as she starts to walk away from you.

“That was a moment, and you ruined it.” She points out.

Feigning shock, you press a hand to your heart,“ I would never!”

Your heart soars as she laughs once again, sound lighter than the last. This beauty has been through a lot of shit recently and to make her smile and laugh despite it all is an achievement worth the highest medal.

Before you can step closer to her there’s a knock at the door.

Natasha quirks an eyebrow before going to it. Cracking it, she peeks outside, befor stepping back and fully opening it.

“I’m sorry for bothering you I just, I think I’m going mad. I keep hearing Y/N’s voice and I can feel Vision as if he’s right beside me.” Your witchy best friend stammers out the second she’s inside.

Your eyes widen,“ oh shit, Vision.”

Neither Natasha or Wanda have time to react as you’re out the window already.

Wanda blinks a couple times to not sure if this is real or if she has in fact lost her mind. One glance at Natasha’s uncontrolabbly smiley face and she knows that was actually you.

Her slight joy is wiped away as she realizes her presence just scared you off. That’s what she thinks anyway.

She’s proven wrong when you step back through the window, this time followed by Vision phasing through the wall.

“Tada!” You whisper/yell, hands gesturing to the red android.

“Viz.” Wanda’s shocked response whispers through the room.

“Wanda.” He smiles back with a nod.

“Wait!” You ruin yet another moment.“ Before you two get all lovey, I’d like to hug my best friend.”

Arms wide you step closer to Wanda. Her magic flickers through her eyes in fear.

No, she’s not scared of you, she’s scared that you hate her. That you’re disappointed in the choice she made to side with Steve.

“Uh Wanda, this is getting awkward.” You murmur.

“You don’t hate me?” The Witch asks, barely above a whisper.

“Woah! Hate? I could never hate you kid, I love you. And I’m not holding anything against you. We all did what we thought was right. I’m just really glad you’re okay.”

At that the brunette throws herself into your arms, wrapping her own around you tightly.

Her body relaxes the instant she’s in your arms. The comfort of your warmth is an unbelievable contrast to the cold of her cell on the Raft. The gentleness of you hand on the back of her head nothing like the harsh presence of her shock collar. Your hold tight but not restricting like her straight jacket.

“Please tell me they didn’t use that shock collar on you.” You whisper, praying they didn’t hurt your best friend.

She doesn’t answer. She can’t. Not when there’s the smallest of a burn mark on her neck, reminding her of the sharp sting of the electrocution.

And you know they did. It’s why you to tighten your hold just a little and blink away your tears.

“I’m strongly tempted to go back and kick their asses”

The girl immediately pulls back, brown eyes staring into yours. Your girlfriend also looks at you, waiting for an explanation.

“No. No more violence, please.” She whispers.

For the first time sense he came in, Vision speaks.

“I agree with Agent Y/L/N. They deserve reprecutions for their actions toward you.”

Wanda steps from your hold and over to Vision. Her hand just barely cups the androids cheek.

“That’s not necessary. I’m here, I’m safe now,” she pauses,“ and I’m with you.”

You don’t think you’ve ever seen Vision smile, until now.

It’s faint but it’s there, and it’s all cause of the girl in front of him.

“You guys are cute.” You smile.

Luckily the android can’t blush, or he’d be redder than his skin. Much like Wanda, who’s cheeks blaze.

Natasha rolls her eyes,“ okay, Wanda, Vision, I’m sure you two want privacy and rest.” She gestures to her door.

They both nod and leave with a smile to you and Natasha.

“You just kicked th-”

She shuts you up with a fierce, burning, loving kiss. Hands on both sides of your face, body flush with yours.

“You’re so very annoying.” Her lips brush yours with each word.

Grinning like mad, you pull the red head over and to the bed.

Once she’s in your arms, you sigh contentedly,“ I may be annoying, but you love me.”

Silence.

A deep breath in and a sigh out.

“Yeah,” she smiles softly to herself. Wiggling her body closer to yours,“ I do love you.”

*****

Tag List: @uglipotata72829 @jumbojamba47 @fayhar @blackwidowromonoff @natasha-danvers @shycucumbersandwich​ @natasharomanoffsbitch-x @studywithrosie01 @gorgeyhun69 @imnotasuperhero @peggycarter-steverogers @superwholockedbeauty @jenny-song @confusinggemini612 @thelastavenger-3000

[ladylillianrose]

The Best Laid Plans a Max Richman/Zoey Clarke Fanfiction

Summary: 5 times Max tries to propose to Zoey and one successful proposal

A/N: So this idea popped into my head the other day, and since I had trouble sleeping last night....tada!! I hope you all enjoy this fluff!

AO3

I.

Max had it all planned out, a nice early dinner, a romantic walk along the beach to watch the sunset, and then he would ask her to marry him.

He had continuously checked the weather report, making sure that everything would be perfect. Sunny and 73 degrees, can't get much better than that. 

Max had the ring in his pocket, it had been hidden away in his drawer for the past three years. Once he realized that he was no other woman for him than Zoey, he'd asked his mom for his grandmother's ring. It had been waiting there for the perfect moment, and today it was finally here.

Max had been nervous all day at work, unable to focus on any task at hand. What if she said no? She wouldn't...would she? No, he was certain that she would say yes.

He got home before she did, thankful to have a moment to calm himself down.

He opened the ring box and looked at it, imagining it on Zoey's finger. He smiled, a sense of calm washing over him.

"Babe? Are you in here?" he heard Zoey call out.

Shit! He quickly placed the box in his pocket, before heading out to greet her.

"Hello, love," Max smiled, pulling her in for a kiss.

"Mmm, hello to you too," Zoey grinned. She tried to deepen the kiss but Max reluctantly moved away.

"Come on, we've got to get ready."

"Wouldn't you rather stay in tonight? I can make it worth your while," she teasingly ran her fingers along his buttons. 

Max counted to ten silently, attempting to steady himself. "You can make it worth my while, after dinner," he said, grabbing her hands before they slipped any lower.

Zoey pouted, "Fine….I guess I'll go get ready." She threw an extra sway in her hips as she walked into the bedroom to get ready.

Max breathed a sigh of relief and checked the weather again. Still sunny and warm, so far so good.

Dinner went by in a blur, Max was so nervous he couldn't even tell you what they ate. He spent most of the dinner checking his pocket obsessively to make sure the ring was still there.

As they left the restaurant, Max suggested they take a walk along the beach, hoping she wasn't becoming suspicious of his plan.

Zoey smiled, as she leaned on his shoulder, "That sounds lovely."

They made their way down to the beach, stopping to leave their shoes on a nearby rock.

As they walked hand in hand Zoey told him about the latest hijinks at work.

"Can you believe that Tobin actually got his ferret certified as an emotional support animal? She looks adorable in her little vest, riding around on his shoulder. Good thing Joan is too busy running the company to notice!" Zoey laughed.

Max chuckled, shaking his head as he listened to her. He missed working at SPRQ Point, sometimes. But he found his true calling in helping out schools and libraries with their STEAM programs for kids. He was a natural teacher, his job allowed his creativity to flow and the children all adored him.

A cool wind picked up as the sun disappeared behind a cloud. Max glanced up and frowned, those were some very dark clouds overhead. Then he felt the first drops of rain beginning. 

"Maybe we should head back," Zoey suggested.

"It's only a few drops. It's not that bad," Max replied, determined to not let a few raindrops spoil his proposal.

As if the heavens had decided to mock him, the rain began pouring down suddenly.  

Max rolled his eyes at the sky and grabbed Zoey's hand. They raced back to where their shoes were and jumped into Max's car.

"Well, so much for romantic walks in the rain," Zoey quipped.

"Yeah, I don't think they mean this kind of rain," Max dryly replied.

Zoey leaned over to kiss him. "Well, it was still a lovely time. We'll go walk along the beach another day."

Max sighed and nodded as he started the car. He could feel the ring burning a hole in his pocket, he needed to come up with a new plan, and soon.

II.

After the rain fiasco, Max determined that keeping the proposal inside was a much safer option. He decided to surprise Zoey with a trip to the California Academy of Sciences. She loved going there when she was younger and had talked about going back when they had the time.

"Oh Max, let's go to the Planetarium next!" She said excitedly holding the map. He nodded and grinned at her eagerness, and they grabbed a spot line to wait for the next show to begin. Max glanced at his watch, 15 minutes till the show started, plenty of time.

He took a deep breath, "Zoey, there's something I've been…"

"Oh my gosh, Max look!" Zoey pointed at something in front of them.

Max turned to see a couple standing in front of the Planetarium, the man was down on one knee and holding out a box to the woman. A small crowd had gathered to watch the events unfold.

"Yes! A thousand times yes!" They heard the woman shriek in excitement.

Everyone burst into applause, except Max who stood there looking gobsmacked. "You have got to be kidding me," he mumbled, annoyed.

"That was so sweet," Zoey smiled at him.

"Yeah, really romantic," Max tried to keep his voice light.

"It was. So, what did you want to ask me?" Zoey said looking at him.

"Oh umm...I was thinking I might want to grow a beard and was wondering what your opinion was," he replied.

"You wanted to ask me if you should grow a beard or not?" Zoey looked at him puzzled. Max nodded, hoping she bought the lie.

"I mean, I hadn't really thought about it before, but yeah why not. I think it could be a good look."

"You do?" He asked in surprise. 

"Oh yes, not like a full mountain man of course. But a little scruff could be very sexy," she smirked, running her hand along his smooth face. 

"Well, then I'm glad I asked that important question," Max replied.

Zoey looked at him oddly and shrugged her shoulders, reading the program about what they would be seeing.

Max rolled his eyes at himself.  Really a beard? That was the "important question?" There wasn't anything better you could have made up? Stupid couple ruining his plan, stealing his proposal idea. 

The happy couple walked by them, "Congratulations!" Zoey called out.

"Wasn't it just so romantic?" The woman sighed, smiling at her fiance. 

"It certainly was. Wasn't it, babe?" Zoey smiled at him.

"Oh yes, very romantic,” Max smiled tightly at them.

"Ooo, come on, the shows starting, " Zoey looped her arm through his and bid the couple farewell.

As Zoey enjoyed the show, Max began formulating a new plan, this one would leave nothing to chance.

III.

"No, I don't want to do the ring in her drink or food. I'll just give you guys the signal and then the violinist can come to the table and I'll propose then. It needs to be at the beginning of the meal….yes I know most couples wait until the end, but I'm not taking a chance with this. Yes, okay, thank you." Max hung up the phone, relieved that all the details were fixed with the restaurant. He and Zoey would go out to dinner, order their food and then Max would propose with the restaurant's violinist played nearby. It was the perfect plan.

Later That Evening

*sirens*

"How crazy is this?" Zoey said, huddled next to Max as they stood outside the restaurant.

"It's crazy alright," Max shook his head in disbelief.

"It's lucky no one was hurt in the fire," She replied. 

"Except the violinist's violin and the waiter's pride," Max reminded her.

"Well honestly, the violinist shouldn't have placed himself there. Maybe then the waiter wouldn't have tripped over him knocking over all those candles. I wonder why he was standing so close to the table near us," Zoey rambled. 

"Who knows, maybe someone had asked him to play nearby, " Max shrugged.

"Hmm, maybe. Well, I'm starving since we didn't get to eat. I think I saw a taco truck down the way," Zoey smiled at Max.

"Sure, tacos sound good."

"Come on, last one there is buying!" Zoey teased racing ahead of him.

Max chuckled, as he chased after her. He needed to stop trying to plan the perfect proposal. He would just carry the ring with him and ask her when the moment was right.

IV.

The park was crowded, though it always seemed to be that way for the summer concerts. Max and Zoey had forgotten about them when they had made plans to take a walk in the park.

At least the paths were clear, everyone was crowding over at the lawn to find a seat before the show started. 

They strolled hand in hand along the pond, quietly enjoying the way the water reflected the sun.

Zoey sighed and smiled as she looked at Max. "It's so peaceful here," she said. "As though we were the only two people here."

Max grinned, this was it, this was the moment. Palming the ring box, he knelt on one knee behind her.

"Zoey…"

"YO, ZO-DOG!" They heard a voice yell.

Zoey turned and saw Tobin walking towards them. Was that Abigail with him?

"Hey!" Zoey grinned and waved at the couple as they approached. 

Abigail smiled at Zoey as she leaned in for a hug.

"Hey bro, trouble with your shoe?" Tobin asked, looking down at Max who was still kneeling on the ground.

"Ummm yeah, just needed to tie it. All good now " Max replied. He slipped the box back in his pocket, before standing up.

"What are you guys doing here? I didn't even know you were seeing each other," Zoey commented.

"Oh yeah, we just started hanging out, outside of work and we just clicked. We're keeping it on the DL for now, but of course, you guys know all about that," Tobin tossed them a knowing wink.

"What? No, we weren't a thing when we worked together," Zoey sputtered as she blushed. 

"Sure, whatever. Anyway, we were coming to check out the concert, but it's some lame dad rock cover band so we decided to ditch. Figured we could go grab some burgers instead," Tobin replied.

"Ooo, burgers sound good right about now. You mind if we tag along?" Zoey asked. She turned and silently asked Max if that was okay with him and he nodded.

Abigail grinned and signed, 'Of course not. The more the merrier!' She looped her arm through Zoey's and they started to make their way out of the park.

"You okay, bro? You seem a little tense," Tobin looked at over at Max.

"Nope, fine. Everything is just fine," Max ground out.

"Well, come on then!" Tobin ran excitedly ahead to catch up with the girls.

Max shook his head, he was beginning to feel like the universe had it out for him. He sighed and went to catch up with the group. Maybe a public proposal wasn't the way to go, too many things could go wrong or interfere. A more private proposal, just the two of them at home, that was the ticket.

V.

It was movie night, they had maintained the tradition even after they started dating. Though once they became a couple there were a few times they had to rewatch the movies because they got too distracted during them.

It was Max's turn to pick and he had decided on,  Big Trouble In Little China . He got everything set up, making sure the popcorn and wine were ready, so they could start as soon as Zoey got home. She'd been working long hours this week, she deserved to have a night where she could just kick back and relax.

Zoey came wearily trudging through the door and dropped her purse, letting out a sigh of relief.

"Welcome home, love," Max greeted her with a kiss.

"Mmmmm," she replied.

"Go put on your comfy clothes and then come sit on the couch. I've got everything ready, so you can take it easy," he told her.

"You're the best boyfriend ever," she smiled at him. Slowly she stumbled to their bedroom to change. 

Max put away her purse and keys and poured her a glass of wine.

She emerged in her PJs and Max led her over to the couch. She snuggled up next to him and took a sip of her wine.

Max hit play and they started the movie.

Zoey was enjoying the film, it was ridiculous and totally 80's, but it was the kind of fun she needed after the week she had.

She glanced over at Max and grinned, pressing a kiss to his cheek.

"What was that for?" He smiled at her.

"Because I can," she replied, reaching for more popcorn only to find an empty bowl. 

"I'll go make more," Max said standing up.

"You don't have to," Zoey protested.

"I want to," Max replied, placing a soft kiss on her lips. "Just relax, I'll be right back."

Max threw a bag of popcorn into the microwave, as he watched Zoey from the corner of his eye. She was leaning on her hand against the armrest, totally absorbed in the film.

He smiled, this was everything he wanted in life, right here at home. It dawned on him that this was the perfect opportunity. He raced into the bedroom and retrieved the ring from his drawer. 

He walked back out just as the microwave dinged. He poured the popcorn into the bowl and made his way back to the sofa.

He set the popcorn on the table and knelt on the floor next to Zoey's side of the sofa. 

"Zoey, there's something I wanted to ask you," he started.

Zoey let out a small snore, causing Max to look up in surprise. She had fallen asleep…. Max shook his head and chuckled to himself. Poor Zoey, she was more tired than she had let on.

He set the box down and scooped her into his arms.

"I was watching that," she sleepily protested, snuggling against him.

"With your eyes closed?" Max teasingly asked.

"Hear better that way," came the mumbled reply.

"Mmhmm, and the snores?"

"I don't snore!"

"No, you're right, my mistake. Must have been someone else snoring."

"Hmph," Zoey responded.

Max gently placed her in their bed and tucked her in. "I love you, Zoey."

"I love you too, Max," she sleepily replied.

Max smiled and headed out to put away everything. He picked up the ring box and sighed, someday he'd get the chance to ask her, and it would be absolutely perfect. 

+ 1

Zoey jiggled her leg nervously under the table where they sat.

"Zoey, are you okay? You look pale..er than usual," Max asked her.

"No, I'm fine. I'm actually really happy*," Zoey replied grinning at him.

"Oooookay," Max said looking at her oddly.

Mo had invited them to hear him perform at a local bar's open mic night, so they went to support him.

"When do you think Mo is on?" Max asked.

"Mmm, I don't know. Oh, look here he comes," Zoey pointed to the stage.

"Hello, everyone. I'm Mo, but I am not the one who will be dazzling you tonight with my voice."

Max looked at Zoey confused, and she shrugged her shoulders in response.

"Instead, my good friend, Zoey Clarke, has a very special performance for you all," Mo grinned and gestured for Zoey to come up.

Max stared at her as she stood up and tossed a wink at him as she made her way to the stage. Mo handed her the microphone, "Thank you Mo. Hello everyone, I'm Zoey Clarke, and Max, this one's for you."

Zoey blew Max a kiss and began to sing.

I had no choice but to hear you

You stated your case time and again

I thought about it

You treat me like I'm a princess

I'm not used to liking that

You ask how my day was

You've already won me over in spite of me

And don't be alarmed if I fall head over feet

And don't be surprised if I love you for all that you are

I couldn't help it

It's all your fault

Your love is thick and it swallowed me whole

You're so much braver than I gave you credit for

That's not lip service

You've already won me over in spite of me

And don't be alarmed if I fall head over feet

And don't be surprised if I love you for all that you are

I couldn't help it

It's all your fault

You are the bearer of unconditional things

You held your breath and the door for me

Thanks for your patience

Max watched, stunned as Zoey sang to him. She began to make her way off the stage still singing, as she walked towards him.

You're the best listener that I've ever met

You're my best friend

Best friend with benefits

What took me so long

I've never felt this healthy before

I've never wanted something rational

I am aware now

I am aware now

You've already won me over in spite of me

And don't be alarmed if I fall head over feet

And don't be surprised if I love you for all that you are

I couldn't help it

It's all your fault

The music stopped as Zoey stood in front of him smiling. She slowly lowered herself to one knee. "Max Richman, you are the love of my life, my best friend, and I can't imagine spending another moment without you by my side. Will you marry me?" 

Max slowly reached into his pocket and pulled out the ring box. "That was supposed to be my line," he grinned. "Yes, Zoey Clarke, I'll marry you!"

Max pulled her up, slipping the ring on her finger before capturing her lips with his.

Around them, everyone in the bar cheered and congratulated them.

They pulled apart flushing and breathless. 

"I guess the universe was trying to tell me something after all," Max grinned. 

Zoey looked at him confused.

"I'll tell you later."

"I'm just glad everything went smoothly. You have no idea how worried I was that something would go wrong or ruin it!" Zoey told him.

"No, you're right, I haven't a clue how that feels," he laughed and pulled her into another kiss. 

A/N: Song is "Head Over Feet" by Alanis Morissette (Listen to it here https://youtu.be/4iuO49jbovg)

*Episode 1x07

[glittercndgcld]

( 𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑘 𝑥 𝑣𝑖𝑐𝑘𝑦 )

  📲 text messages | @xboutlxstnightmuses​

vicky yooooooooo, stud I need my Derek time when am I going to get it????:smiling_face_with_3_hearts::smiling_face_with_3_hearts::smiling_face_with_3_hearts:

derek Might not be for a bit, smalls. Duty calls and something tells me that I might be MIA for a while. How are things going?

vicky :scream::scream::scream: oh no!!!! Der-Der is everything okay? you know the usual bitch-fighting about yoga book manuscripts stress-inducing....but kind of addicted to it

derek Oh, yeah. You know the job. Has me running around like a chicken without a head more often than not. But everythings fine, yeah. No worries. You're still doing that? Sounds annoying as hell. I mean, are yoga books really that important?

vicky I am so sorry about that :( I can be some sort of distraction while you are busy at work? not with Drew. NEVER with Drew. #beingsarcastic that didn't make ANY sense my last brain cells are so done with me and YES yoga is pretty important. My author has a lot more chances than Drew has...and ... my author told me that he is going to a different publishing company if i don't give him the job which I can't do anything about that.

derek It's alright. I mean, if I didn't love it, I'd be in a different line of work. I work best under pressure, anyways. Or in the midst of danger, apparently. If this kid sees me with my phone, I fear he might try to throw it out of the window like I did his. But I always enjoy hearing from you, so text me whenever. I've got a feeling I'll have some time on my hands, anyways. Isn't that the same woman you mentioned last time around? And the time before that. Is it though? I mean, I wouldn't know, but what I do know, is I'm always team confetti, so I'm rooting for you, smalls. Well, that book better stand out then.

vicky why did you throw his phone off the window? What did he do? Who is this kid? yes yes and yes and also I love her losing face. It is adorable. 20% of the reason that i keep doing that is that her losing face is exteemely adorable Did i mention adorable???? THANKS!!!!! TEAM CONFETTI FOR THE WIN :confetti_ball::confetti_ball::confetti_ball::tada::tada::tada::tada:

derek Work reasons. Also the fact I can't say much is also due to work reasons. You think her losing face is adorable? Almost sounds like you like the girl. Always team confetti for the win! I'll send a bottle of champagne for celebration.

vicky how old is this "kid"? I like competing with her....and also, I have eyes. She is gorgeous but also annoying my heart belongs to my just-lovely-tinder girl though

derek I don’t know. Early 30s, maybe. Gorgeous and annoying, huh? Annoying is hard to get past. You’re still talking to that girl? I think you mentioned her before? Or was this a different girl?

vicky Interesting. Very interesting. You did give me a fright there when you said "kid". I do get emotional about cases with actual kids. Whatever this case you're involved in is, I think you might get distracted by this "kid". More with me texting. especially, if like...he's cute. Not saying that you should act on anything. But you have eyes....and WHAT PRETTY EYES YOU GOT....you can just look at him. If he's cute, he might get you distracted, as well and time will pass faster? And do send details to aunt Vicky, here. I mean I can only imagine the situation. But do think of the positive aspect of things only. And also chill a bit. Work duties and all, buuuut SO hard to get past. Especially, when I feel like she starts the whole situation. We do butt heads a lot when we are together with our supervisor. But it continues after we get out, and it's like she's poking me with a stick EVERY TIME. Yeah, it's still the same girl, I've talked you about. We get along pretty fine. But, I don't know why I'm so hesitant in meeting her.

derek Good god, Vicky. I love you, but you talk too much. You know I call almost everyone younger than me 'kid'. Except you. You're smalls & confetti - those stuck. I can appreciate pretty faces without being distracted. There won't be any sort of details to tell. And what are the positive aspects here? That he's pretty? I am chill! But this is work. I can't just 'be chill' in my line of work. Why do I feel like you both poke each other with a stick? I know you, smalls. Too well. Ah, I say just do it. Take that chance and meet her. You don't have much to lose. I mean, life goes on unchanged without her if you don't like her much after you meet.

vicky Sooooo he IS pretty?!?!? you know what I mean!!! Don’t let work stop you from what your heart :hearts: wants. even if that is just to look at pretty boys at your line of work I am not allowed to know the situation...so how am I supposed to know what other aspects it has? okay maybe we do. But SHE starts it. that is so wise!!! okay maybe I will ask her out

derek He's easy on the eyes, sure. My heart has absolutely nothing to do with this conversation. This is work, Vicky. That's it. When I'm at work, I'm not exactly admiring pretty boys. There's a lot more important things that require my full, undivided attention. You aren't. I can't say... really anything about it. Oh, I don't believe that she ALWAYS starts it. I feel like you might play a hand or two now and again. Do it. Hope it goes well.

vicky AAAAWWWW :sunglasses::sunglasses::sunglasses::sunglasses::sunglasses::sunglasses::sunglasses::sunglasses::sunglasses::sunglasses: Maybe...no matter what the new mission is, you just....broaden the boundaries of it and just stare at that pretty boy. If you come in contact with him, of course. If you don't , still.... you can stare at him later? oh hush!!!! When did I ever played a hand or two in fights? :upside_down::upside_down::upside_down: wish me luck. I will probably send her a message soon

derek Broaden the boundaries? What does that even mean? We're sorta stuck together for an indefinite amount of time, and I think he's going to drive me crazy. Literally. I might go crazy. Pretty or not, he doesn't ever shut up and it's annoying as hell. Yeah, right. Plenty of times, I'm almost sure. Good luck, then! Let me know how it goes.

vicky :face_with_hand_over_mouth: :face_with_hand_over_mouth: :face_with_hand_over_mouth: Did you just partly reveal to me what is going on? I swear if they're going to ask me, I'm going to pretend that I don't know!!! AH see though; I know what advice I should give though. Like yes, you're stuck with him for an indefinite amount of time. Take advantage of that. Like, to the very least, make a new friend. I'm not asking you to do anything else. EVEN if you can, if your superiors won't learn about it:eggplant: :eggplant: :eggplant: I doubt you could be driven that crazy. I mean, it's you. You're too calm and serious sometimes. Have you ever done that type of job before and you know how other people react? Maybe all people react that way. I am not going to comment on that Thank you :heart: yes, I will let you know! WAIT We aren't going to meet for New Year's ?

derek No! I didn't. That isn't even a fraction of what's going on right now. You'd better act like you don't know a damn thing... because you don't. Why would i want to take advantage of that? I mean, that's assuming I even like this guy a little bit... he's a bit much. PLEASE DON'T SEND ME THE EGGPLANT EMOJI RIGHT NOW I absolutely could be driven that crazy And I'm also a bit irritable right now. I don't see that going away anytime soon. No, I think he's just that annoying. No, confetti. It doesn't look like we are. Rain check for next New Year's though.

vicky I don't really believe you. You kind of told me what your duties are. And I've probably read more crime novels than you have :stuck_out_tongue: So, I can guess. Definitely though-I don't know anything. YES ALL THE EGGPLANT EMOJIS Do you have to like the guy that much to just to the deed with him? You know attraction is EVERYTHING; if you think he's handsome go for it. Why does he annoy you that much? Aw :frowning: It's okay; once you're out of all that situation, we can pretend it's new year's in one of our sleepovers?

derek It isn't! There is so much more to it. You probably couldn't guess to save your life. And I'd prefer if you didn't. NO EGGPLANT EMOJIS ACTUALLY There will be no doing the deed with anyone. I'm literally working right now. Omg, Vicky. I am not sleeping with him. Because he IS annoying. Yeah, I guess we'll have to do that. Because like i said, I have no idea how long I'll be gone.

vicky oh right. can't you do the deed while you are work? You will probably not do the deed anyway for the next months so  why don't you consider doing it with someone that you find easyontheeyes :sunglasses: I have slept with a lot of annoying people- it helped with the tension later on, not to attack them :smirk::stuck_out_tongue_closed_eyes:

derek :man_facepalming: Are we really talking about my sex life right now? No sex will be had. I'm working. That's it. I can see how that would help, but again - it's work. I shouldn't even be talking about that sort of thing let alone thinking about it.

vicky Maybe? How long has it been since you've been in some kind of sexy situation? fiiiiine then work But aunt Vicky will always be here to listen what you have to say about this easyontheeyes guy you are working with

derek Only a couple of months. Not very long, but at the same time, too long. How you get me to talk about my sex life is ridiculous. We aren't working together. I'm babysitting him. There's a difference.

vicky Still a lot. But are you usually able to hold yourself in times of work and wanting to act on it hmm? :thinking: I know right? I need to write a book about that :rofl: BABYSITTING....??? You know better but that is not the kind of work that you can't indulge on things and maybe relax. Let your eyes at least wonder and wander both match in my head :stuck_out_tongue_closed_eyes:

derek Hey, hey, smalls - you’re putting words in my mouth. I never said I wanted to act on it. On anything. Because there’s nothing TO act one *on Basically. Yes. Babysitting. My eyes can wander, but that’s it. I think it’s wander :thinking:

vicky I am not putting things in your mouth, honey. I am just talking in general. It has been a while so after some point you have to act on those urges if it's with the easyontheeyes guy suuuuure go for it you already know that you have my blessings :wink::wink::wink: Okay, AT LEAST your eyes wander

derek You definitely are. I didn't say that I want to act on anything. You're something else. Are you telling me that I need to get laid? I know I can be a grouch sometimes, have I been that bad - that you're subtly telling me that I need to get laid. Because I most definitely need your blessing to get laid :thinking: I'm uptight sometimes, but I'm still a man - my eyes wander a lot.

vicky You are not grouch.... But you got like sooo offended when I told you to act on it We have reached that point that maybe you need my blessings for that sure sure use those pretty eyes for that

derek I have my moments. I’m not offended, per se... I just mean, I’m working. If I wanted to sleep with him, Vicky, I would. With it without your blessing. But thank you? You’re something else. *With or without

vicky Erin says hi, by the way :wink: Use the work excuse one more time ... You're welcome :blush: Awww thank you- YES I am :hugging:

derek Oh? Tell her I said hello. How is she doing? It isn’t an excuse! It’s the reality of the situation I’m in. I am working. You absolutely are - like the little sister I never got.

vicky She's doing great :relaxed: We are thinking of going out for wine soon. I've been with people from work. We've all done it. Are you in some kind witness protection program? So if that is the case, you are basically playing house I wish I could be "working" LIKE THAT but :zipper_mouth: I won't continue this BUT again, if this is the case You have lots of free time :zipper_mouth: Do inform me though! Okay, then...big bro :heart: I am gonna miss you

derek That's great to hear. That she's doing great and that you two are thinking about going for wine. I'm thinking I should've stopped at a liquor store on my way ou there. I mean, I have been with people I work with. I'm not saying yes, and I'm not saying no. Aw, smalls - look at you, thawing my cold heart a little :stuck_out_tongue_winking_eye:

vicky Oh you don't want to be sober, when you're around him?:smirk: OH HAVE YOU? I find it hard to believe! At least, you're not saying ONLY "no" Awww you don't have a cold heart. On the contrary. I can't say that for your stubborn ass, though :yum:

derek He's annoying as hell - maybe the alcohol will make it easier to tolerate him. Maybe I have. Really, I'm just trying to placate you a little here. I know, I know, I was just kidding, for the most part. Stubborn - I definitely am.

vicky Maybe you want to do stuff to him and then blame it on the ah-ah-ah-alcohol :smirk::smirk::smirk: This is not placating me; this makes me want to know more about who you slept with from work!!!!! Seriously, though. You are the sweetest with the warmest heart. It is only a matter of time someone recognises that :heart: Speaking of this...and Erin I am feeling slightly bad... ....cause just around the time I started talking with Erin again, Oliver asked me if he knew anyone who was searching for a roomate I had beef with both( Oliver mostlt because of you) So now I feel bad that I pushed those two forces of disaster together :upside_down:

derek :man_facepalming: I walked RIGHT into that one. It absolutely is placating you. I've said enough this conversation - my lips are sealed. Ah, I'm not in any rush to meet someone that might see those sorts of things about me. I should be because I'm like, almost fucking 50 at this point. You still talk to Oliver? Oliver and Erin living together... good lord, Vicky, what were you thinking? Those two together is a recipe for disaster - quite literally.

vicky No, you didn't...I just like mentioning it. NO, do continue. Was it like a one-time thing? Or it continued later on? 9 years to 50, though....it's a lot of years :stuck_out_tongue: Don't overreact!!! OH you'll find someone. I know it! I did talk with him, a couple of months after you broke up he was kinda desperate...so I pushed him to Erin You know what's funny though. They're still living together, which is extremely weird :stuck_out_tongue:

derek I feel like I blindly walk into a lot of things with you, of which I should be expecting, but aren't in the moment. :rolling_eyes: I'm not going to answer that. 10 years goes by very fast, Vicky. To be fair, I'm content on my own. You didn't tell me that - I mean, why in the world did he reach out to you? I guess good for him though, if he were desperate, I can only imagine the situation he might've found himself in. That is... Very weird. I assume Erin doesn't know what he's my ex.

vicky exactly :stuck_out_tongue_closed_eyes: OH PLEASE?! Is that confidential?! That you fucked around with your colleagues once in a while?! It would be confidential, if you fuck around with other people at the moment, I mean :wink: But it would be for other people, not me :face_with_hand_over_mouth: I respect that. But that doesn't mean that there isn't anybody out there that would want to be with you. No matter how old you are at this point. I didn't, because the Oliver subject felt a little too aggravating at this point. It was a couple months later or something? Erin was also searching someone to live in her extra room So, I didn't mention it. It's not as aggravating as it was two years ago, right? Maybe, he did want to move out of his place? Make a new start? Oh no. She doesn't know. She would hate him, if I said that, because she is drooling all over you anyway... :thinking: Maybe I should have said that, then. But, now she doesn't. Also, I think I'm falling IN LOVE Can you fall in love with a person that you haven't met yet?

derek Shit, Vicky - you talk more than anyone else I know. It is confidential! You're like my little sister and talking about my sex life with you isn't ideal. No, it doesn't mean that. I just mean that even though I've been single for a while now and am almost 50 - I'm not rushing into anything. I'm a little irritated that you are only mentioning this to me now, but it's in the past and I'm not going to let it irritate me any further. I don't know what the case was, but one can only imagine with Oliver. I'm glad he found a place with Erin though... somewhat, at least. It's a bit too close to home, but. Oh, Erin. She's flattering, that girl. Whoaaaaa, in love?! Wowww - that was unexpected. I feel like... maybe you can, yeah.

vicky :smirk: Walking RIGHT into it in 3 2 1 More than this easyontheeyes guy?! I'm not really asking for details. I just hardly believe that's true, though. That you slept around with other people from your....workplace. You're being dramatic on the age there. You grow up like fine wine! Still it might get easier to find someone, because you get more handsome with age.... Just another common thing Oliver and Erin share...the drooling. Oh my God...if Erin pisses me off again, I might tell her about Oliver being your ex. Is it too much? I mean it's super early to tell. But, I feel like...she seems so...good for and to me.

derek :man_facepalming_tone1::man_facepalming_tone1:why do I keep doing this? I need to think before I text, while texting you, apparently. It could very well be true. Maybe I just haven’t told you anything about it. Just a little dramatic... just a little. :laughing: like fine wine? Sounds like something Erin would say. I appreciate the vote of confidence, smalls. If she pisses you off, huh? :joy: just a little something to keep in your back pocket then? For whenever you might need it. Well, smalls, only you know how you feel. It’s a little crazy, yeah, but I’ve never been in your position to judge. I think the fact that you’re falling in love blindly says a lot about you two’s connection.

vicky You didn't answer if this was a competition between me and the easyontheeyes guy Who would win? And it didn't evolve into something else? Those hook-ups, I mean? Why do I feel you are gettint quite vengeful towards Oliver at the moment?! :rofl: I have eyes and I can see people turning their heads when we hang out some place Also I may not be :heart_eyes: for you, but I can't be the president of your fan club. Although I am itching to tell Erin now who knows what is going on in the house and how it can be turned around if I told her that her roomate was sleeping with you :partying_face::partying_face::partying_face::partying_face::partying_face::partying_face::partying_face: THE DRAMA Oh my god I want to say it, Derek. I just feel a lot of things..m I don't want something else to happen...I don't want to get hurt. I want everything to turn out fine.

derek I honestly feel like you two are neck in neck when it comes to that... but he might take the cake. No. It almost did, one of those times, but we spent so much time apart, it was way too hard. I still feel some kind of way about how things happened with him, I guess. A good reason as to why I am not going to date guys that young anymore. Yeah, and a lot of people turn their heads to look at you, too. I guess we just have some really good genes :stuck_out_tongue_winking_eye: If you ever do tell her, you'll have to tell me about it because I do feel like her reaction would be quite entertaining. Say it... like... to her? Yeah, well... this game of love is all about chance, ain't it?

vicky I will let that slide. That loss. But if I lose the manuscript from Drew, I will fight you and this easyontheeyes guy. It would be too much loss for me in such a short period of time. That sucks :confused: ....uhm what about young guys? Well....that wasn't the reason I've said that :smiling_face_with_3_hearts: But thank you? Oh you will be the first one to know :stuck_out_tongue: Yes, tell Erin about Oliver and you. By the way, he burned her curtains and I'm just:rofl: Yeah, it is. It is exciting but also overwhelming.

derek You should take it as a compliment - you aren't the most annoying anymore :laughing: Hey hey now. You should fight Drew, not me and an innocent bystander! Suck it up, Vicky, losing isn't the end of the world. If anything, it should just make you want to do better later... as for losing to this guy about being the most annoying or talking too much, whatever we were talking about, you should be glad. I'm not going to date young guys anymore - I should stick to men closer to my age. Definitely. Good lord - he burned her curtains... okay, no. Yeah, I'm not even surprised. Sounds like Oliver. Oh! About me and Oliver... I thought you meant tell her tinder girl you were falling in love with her :joy: Enjoy it though. The beginning is the best part.

vicky :unamused: SUCK IT UP?! Fine, Derek! Fine. I can take one loss, but two losses in a row...NOPE I mean life gives you obstacles, but when that happens to me I get SO MAD Yeah....but why is that? What do the young guys have done to you now? Why are you putting limits to all the guys you might be in a relationship with?! Why? WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS TO YOURSELF?! But, fine...I'll suck it up Yeah, too many her's

derek Yeah, I said it! Suck it up, smalls. Losing is apart of life. Even 2 losses in a row. Young guys are just... I’m over playing games and stuff, you know? They aren’t - at least, a majority of them aren’t. I learned my lesson with Oliver. Mistakes, remember? I’m not gonna go around making the same mistakes twice. I can put limits on whatever I want to put limits on. And the age range I decide to date is right up there with limits. Because I feel it’s best for myself. Maybe I should find someone to date closer to my age. Maybe it’d be good for me, Vicky. You know what I meant.

vicky :unamused: fine

derek Love ya, smalls :hugging: That's my cue to put my phone away before it gets confiscated and thrown out of a window. I'll be in touch.

[annteasocial]

Hello there! May I please have some stuff for Arashi having a partner who's into lolita fashion (particularly classic lolita)? (She/her for Ara if possible too?) Thanks in advance!

Of course you can! First request let’s get this bread lol. Hopefully this is something you like and up to your standards X’D. I did make the reader a female but I pray that it’s not a huge problem

EnStars Arashi X Lolita Fashion Fem S/O

“Arashi-chan, look what I bought yesterday!” You excitedly run up to the blonde, catching her off guard. “Oh (Y/N)-Chan dear, you gave Onee-san a bit of a fright!”

“Ahaha…sorry about that, I was really eager to show you this super cute dress I got whilst shopping at the mall yesterday.” You scratch your cheek awkwardly, but proceed to bring out your latest purchase from the shopping bags for your girlfriend to see.

“Tada! What do you think? Do you like it?”

Arashi’s eyes widen at the sight of the frilly red and white Lolita dress. It had a beautiful double layered knee length skirt with a plaid pattern travelling down the side of both. The puffed sleeves were a traditional white with the exception of the cuffs which were a matte dark red lined with small crosshatching stitches, giving it a cute yet elegant look.

“Oh my! It’s gorgeous!” Arashi claps her hands together and gives a radiant smile, taking the dress from you and admiring the ensemble. “I also picked out this bow that matched the colours of it.” You draw a large plaid bow out of the bag, showing it to the purple eyed individual, whose eyes are practically sparkling.

“(Y/N)-chan, please go change, Onee-san would love to see you in your new outfit.” Arashi hands you back the dress and shoos you off to the nearest changing room, which thankfully wasn’t far from the practice room the two of you were occupying for the time being. You remove your school uniform, carefully unzip the back of the dress and slip into it. You take the opportunity to admire yourself in the mirror, twirling to let the skirts flow out a bit, before returning to Arashi.

You bounce into the room with your new appearance and attack the Knights member with a hug. She catches you and squeezes you slightly before pulling away to revel at the sight in front of her. “Oh you’re absolutely stunning (Y/N)-chan, really, you look like an adorable little model! It puts Izumi-chan to shame!” Arashi bends down to give you a peck on the cheek, pulling away with all smiles on her features.

A strong breeze sweeps through the open window that was left open due to the noontime summer heat, blowing your long hair in front of your face. Arashi catches some of the locks and brushes them behind your ear, then proceeds to usher you towards the mirror.

“Arashi-chan? What are you doing?”

“Let me braid your hair so it’s not flying into your precious face.”

“Oh, okay.”

The blonde seats you down on a chair and leaves to grab a comb, two hair ties and some red and white ribbon, which you had no idea she carried around, from her bag. Arashi returns and begins to gently tease out the small knots in your hair from you hopping about. You close your eyes in contentment, enjoying the feeling of her hands running through your locks.

“You have super soft and silky hair you know that (Y/N)-chan?” She meets your eyes through the mirror and begins to part down the middle of your hair. “Well, I do use the same brand of shampoo that you use, because your hair is really nice as well Arashi-chan. It also smells good,” you giggle, fiddling around with some of the loose strands she’s left in front of your face.

A moment of silence passes before you decide to speak up again.

“Um, Arashi-chan? Can I ask you something?”

“You can ask Onee-san anything you want.”

You pause, contemplating your next words.

“Do you…think it’s weird that I’m into classic Lolita fashion?” Arashi stops braiding and furrows her brows. “Of course not! I honestly think it’s refreshing, seeing you present yourself differently to others,” she states with a hint of disbelief, seemingly surprised that you would even ask a question like that.

You nod your head feebly as another cool breeze drifts through the window, ruffling your almost finished twin tail braids. You shiver involuntarily at the cold passing through the sleeves of your dress. The sun had hidden behind some clouds, filling the room with a dull grey tone, contrasting the warm atmosphere that once filled the room. “It’s just, people give me strange looks whenever I’m out in public because of what I wear. They look at me and whisper, calling me a freak and stuff…it’s made me question my appearance a bit,” you say truthfully.

Arashi finishes fastening the last braid with a ribbon and walks around the chair to face you. “(Y/N), look at me please.” The Knights member cups both your cheeks in her hands and tilts your face to meet hers. “Don’t let anything that anyone says about ever change how you want to dress. You’re beautiful as you are and I will always be there to support you.”

“Arashi-chan…”

You stand up and bury your face into the shoulder of the blonde. She wraps her arms around your waist and envelops you with warmth. “Thanks for understanding,” you mumble into her shirt, and you feel the vibrations through her body as she chuckles. “Of course my cute (Y/N)-chan~,” she coos.

“I love you, Arashi-chan.”

“I love you too, dear.”

BONUS:

Arashi pulls away from the hug and grabs one of your hands in hers. “Let’s go show the other Knights members! I’m sure they’d love to see you in your new outfit!” She elatedly drags you out the door as your brain tries to process what she’s just said. “Eh? Wai—what? Now?! They’re still here?!” You stammer. “Yep, they’re all doing something for Ou-sama apparently, though I was taking a little break when you found me.”

Arashi bursts into the room vigorously. “Look ah what my precious (Y/N)-chan bought yesterday~!” She parades you in front of her, gaining attention from the rest of the young idols.

“Wow, Onee-Sama you look marvellous!” Tsukasa is the first to compliment you, giving you an adorable smile, befitting of a little princeling. “Thanks Tsukasa-kun, I’m glad you like it,” you laugh, returning his gesture.

Out of the corner of your eye, you see Izumi take a long hard glance at you. “She can’t look as cute as my Yuu-kun,” he scoffs, looking away but Leo is quick to reprimand him. “Now now Sena, be nice okay! I think (Y/N) looks really good!” Leo walks over to you and gives you a pat on the head and Arashi smiles proudly. “See? Everyone loves what you’re wearing! Izumi-chan likes it as well, he just won’t admit it~”

Izumi flushes slightly due to embarrassment and anger. “Shut up Naru!” He yells and retreats to elsewhere in the room.

“Ahh…you guys are so noisy…I can’t sleep when Secchan is shouting.”

“Oh, Sleeping Beauty decided to wake up.”

“It’s not like I wanted to wake up in the first place…” Ritsu yawns and stretches his thin arms above his head before flopping back down onto the beanbags with a sigh. “Haah……hm? Did you get a new dress (Y/N)-chan? You look pretty~” the self proclaimed vampire gives you a sleepy grin, observing your appearance from amidst the pile of bean filled cushions.

You feel a slight heat rise to your cheeks from all the kind remarks and fidget with your hands. “Thanks you guys, you’ve really made my day you know that?” You murmur, playing with the ends of your new braids.

“You guys are the best friends I could ever ask for.”

Stan the Queen that is Arashi.

[windscattered]

An article from Ho-Oh’s Folk.com.

Ex-Chairman Comes Out As Bisexual - Exclusive Interview

⊳ Play video

(The logo of the site spins into view, stops for a few seconds, then bounces off to the corner of the screen, revealing two people sitting on armchairs.

One of them is the interviewer, an Asian trans woman and the other is the former chairman of the Galar League, Rose. The interviewer, Susan Liu, as the name card on the screen indicates, smiles brightly to the camera and begins to speak.)

Susan: Happy pride month, everyone! We here at Ho-Oh’s Folk continue our pride month coverage with exclusive interviews. Today are interviewing someone very special. Galar’s very own former chairman Jaideep Rose. Thank you for coming!

Rose: Thank you for having me.

(Rose is now speaking in a softer, less bombastic voice. His accent is also different from the Received Pronunciation and less posh.)

Susan: How are you?

Rose: I'm fine, thank you, how are you?

Susan: I'm fine too, thank you. So, mister Rose… I heard you had a big announcement a week ago.

Rose: Indeed.

Susan: You came out as bisexual on your Chattor.

(Rose smiles, a touch nervously, and straightens his tie.)

Rose: Yes. Yes I did.

Susan: How has the reception to that been?

Rose: It's… been surprisingly supportive. Of course, there’s been the occasional, uh, image. What do people call those again? Memes?

Susan: Memes, yeah.

Rose: Yes, yes. The occasional meme saying “gay people I respect” and a picture of, say, Burgh from Unova, then “gay people I don’t respect” and a picture of me. Which-

Susan: No way! 

Rose: Hah, yeah. Which, honestly? Fair enough, I guess. I’m not perfect, especially after all that… stuff during the League Finals.

Susan: It’s still a little cruel, though, isn’t it? You took this huge step that must have taken a ton of courage and people use that to make memes.

Rose: (shrugs) It is what it is. You learn to grow a thick skin once you get into the same position as me.

Susan: I bet. Speaking of getting into that position… Can we talk about your journey to this (she motions at Rose) openly bisexual Rose?

Rose: Absolutely.

Susan: How was it growing up for you? When did you realise yourself?

Rose: (takes a breath and leans back in his chair) Ah. Well. As a kid, I always had crushes on both boys and girls. It’s just been a fact that I’ve always been aware of. I never had a big aha- moment, so to speak.

Susan: Did your parents know about any of this?

Rose: (his smile shrinks) Well…

Susan: Oh, that’s not a good sign.

Rose: (chuckles darkly) Indeed. I… I don’t they ever knew or guessed, but I… had some other habits that my father particular wasn’t too satisfied with.

Susan: (grimaces) Oh boy.

Rose: Mm-hmm. He made sure that he scared scared all… (he makes a motion with his hand) not adequately masculine mannerisms out of me. One time, he saw me holding one of my mother’s nail polish bottles. Holding.

Susan: Oh no...

Rose: I mean, to his defence, I was thinking to paint my nails, but, uh… you know. That idea was shot down pretty quickly. (laughs uncomfortably)

Susan: (grimaces) That’s awful. How about school? Were more accepting there?

Rose: Hmm. I wouldn’t know, I was pretty deep in the closet for pretty much all of my youth. I did get to experiment with, uh. Dating boys. But I was very shy growing up, so I didn’t do much. (laughs)

Susan: (sputters) Wait, you? Shy?

Rose: (laughs) Yes! I didn’t come out of the womb like (switches back to RP accent and bombastic voice) “Hello everybody!”.

Susan: (laughs) Yeah, fair. It’s a journey for everyone.

Rose: Indeed. I really started coming out of my shell after I enrolled into university and even more when I started Macro Cosmos.

Susan: But not out-

Rose: Not out of the closet, yes. (laughs) That’s for later. But, yes, I started consciously working to be less shy. While that did work, it also helped me to create this… mask for myself. When I became the chairman of the League and I was in the public eye even more than before, I… that mask became my image. I tried to become this perfect Average Galarian, I tried to hide and erase myself when I was doing interviews, opening and commentating.

Susan: That sounds rough.

Rose: (shrugs) It was, at times, but I thought, I still do think, that the Gym Challenge isn’t about me, it’s about the gym leaders and challengers. My job is to just make sure that the gyms work as they should, that the gym leaders don’t burn out. And, during the Gym Challenge, I just open the challenge, introduce the gym leaders and commentate on the finals. My thought process was that if I let any of me, my real self, to show in my public job, it would distract from the gym leaders, who are the real stars of the show. Does that make sense?

Susan: It does to me, yes.

Rose: Yes. So that, line of thought, that mask, became sort of a closet for me. And as time went on, I became more and more terrified of the backlash I’d get if I came out. So I just… didn’t.

Susan: Hmm. So what gave you the incentive to finally do it?

Rose: Well, uh. You might have heard of the little thing I did…

Susan: Mm. The thing where you tried to, what was it?

Rose: Recreate the Darkest Day.

Susan: Yes. I am familiar.

Rose: Yeah. So uh. That happened. So I thought, “well, my reputation can’t get any worse, so… what the hell!” (he makes a “tada” gesture with his hands) I don’t have to fear my reputation taking more damage than this.

Susan: Wouldn’t that mean that if you hadn’t done that… You wouldn’t have come out?

Rose: I… Maybe eventually. But it wouldn’t have happened for another… (he waves a hand) three, five years. Maybe more.

Susan: So maybe it’s better like this.

Rose: Definitely. Now I can go on a date with my boyfriend without having to worry about paparazzis outing me before I’m ready.

Susan: Mm, yes, the freedom.

Rose: Exactly! Last night, I was on a walk with him and he took my hand and I, uh… I did flinch, but I quickly remembered that I didn’t have to hide. I’ve taken the mask off and I don’t have to hide anymore. It’s amazing.

Susan: Right?!

Rose: Holding hands while walking is intoxicating. People should do that all the time. And to be able to do it openly and without fear…

Susan: It’s the best.

Rose: It truly is.

Susan: (glances offscreen) Our producer is motioning for me to wrap this up, but let’s get one more question in. What would you say to the Galarian kids and teenagers who are struggling with same issues as you?

Rose: Ooh, that’s a good one. Let’s see. (leans back in his seat) It might feel hard now, but hang in there. (he turns to speak directly to the camera) Even if your parents don’t accept you or know the real you, just grind your teeth and wait until you’re in a safer situation. It might not look like it, but better days are coming. Please hang in there.

Susan: (presses her hand to her chest and smiles) Aww. I would have loved to hear that when I was younger. Thank you for the interview, mister Rose.

Rose: (smiles) Thank you for having me.

Susan: (turns back to speak to the camera) Thank you for watching, don’t forget to like, subscribe and hit that bell button so you won’t miss any of our exclusive pride month interviews! Until next time, I’m Susan Liu from Ho-Oh’s Folk.com.

(video ends)

[simplyjaeeex]

So just because I wanted to explain more what the exposing bloggers said about Hendall to really show you all how and why that PR was actually a pretty convincing one I’ll create this post:

So as you all know (unless you are a Haylor stan or just blind) Haylor was always a PR from beginning to end. I mean it was pretty obvious a n y w a y it wasn’t a good PR, at all and well 1Ds team couldn’t let another Haylor-like mishap happen, again. Now as you all know Kris (Kendall’s momager) never, never, misses a chance to further their wealth and relevancy even if it means manipulating her own children’s life. She is a master at it and well honestly I think she’s in a way addicted to it. Kendall was building her relevancy in the modeling world but she still needed more. So what better way then to link her to some super popular pop star 🌟 I mean y’all remember Kendall trying to get it with JB? It was all Kris’ mastermind. That didn’t happen though but that’s a whole other story and honestly idc too much bc JB is happily married to the one person who actually really does love him. Again I’m not getting into that. So who else was a very popular pop star at that time? None other than Mr. Styles, 1D was at it’s peak and it was a match made in PR heaven.

So why did it seem so believable and why was it much more successful than Haylor? Welllllll because they never confirmed it, ever. A huge hugely popular trick used. Anyone fish? Tease them about it and they’ll bite into it and you’ll hook them. That’s exactly what they did. They teased with little details and photos and insider exclusives (which is really code for their management or themselves) also known as sources.

11/2013 - Dinner @ Craig’s

Now let’s start with the location first: Craig’s. Literally that’s the restaurant celebrities go to, to get papped. If you don’t want to be papped on your very secretive date you don’t go to Craig’s. Anyway photos surfaced and boom rumors started and then the denying began, the teasing. A “source” denied and said they were “just friends”, K tweeted that she was single and H denied yet teased about it and hook line and sinker, you bit into it and now they got you.

1/2014 - Ski trip

A ski trip in which a “source” said that they were very couple-y and flirty with one another. Now tell me who could possibly be so close that they would know how they acted with one another? Anyway. Ski trip aside they “break up” the next month bc of conflicting schedules or some bs like that and blah blah blah 🙄

12/2015- The Yatch

Conveniently this “vacation date/reunion of lovers” happened right after K had been hospitalized for exhaustion. (Cough rehab cough) and well H was still dealing with his very much speculating sexuality rumors and the release of the new album amid Zayns departure and the hiatus. Perfect timing for both participants and tada! Dinner and Yatch, both very very common PR stunts. Show me a celebrity couple who hasn’t done a Yatch PR stunt? Or a beach one? It’s like a must do for PRs. Yet again a source came out saying that they have something going on for a while (teasing you yet again and trapping you). No one questioned why K was hospitalized and well H continued to be relevant and clearly not gay.

1/2016

Big sis Koko comes to the call as she teases everyone once again about the potential of Hendall being real. Let’s not forget Ellen who also teased all by saying how sweet they are and how she likes them both together. End of Jan had them both attend Jeff’s party, which they did not arrive or leave together. The Kardashian/Jenners are pretty good friends with the Azoffs so it’s no wonder they would be invited and well Harry as you know is buds with the guy and his stepdad was there as well.

4/2016

Shopping photo arises. No knowledge of where or when. Oddly enough yet it still gets your attention. News outlets legit say “If it’s Harry and Kendall ..” still very much keeping the mystery and teasing you by not confirming but still intriguing you. K was battling rumors of her supposed relationship with Clarkson around that time too coincidentally. Once again a source comes forward stating how much K likes H but aren’t committed bc well he’s your typical rockstar. Pushing the whole Womanizer rockstar image hm? How original.

9/2016

K and Clarkson rumors persist, so K&H are allegedly spotted having dinner. Where a source states how happy and beaming K looked. Allegedly.

4/2017

H teases by saying some of his songs were inspired by a recent relationship. Using the word She, speculations continue and the intrigue is once again there and obviously he’s straight bc he wrote songs about a she.

5/2019

Met Gala: they reunite and are one of the last two to leave. Well obviously, Harry was a host. They were seen leaving minutes apart but not together. They partied at the same after party and left together. K’s manager never rests and neither does H’s.

12/2019

Then we have the Late Late Show and the silly game of eat your guts or spill your guts. In which H refused to answer what songs were about K and in which many said both were very flirty and at ease with one another.

2/2020

The Brits. Pretty hard to not notice either with their very vibrant attires. But alas not much was really taken out of that

Then finally we have the really odd and out of place interaction during COVID-19. K with her rumored beau in a purple car while H rides his motorcycle. Like why? That just made zero sense honestly. Anyway we all know H needed proof that he was in LA well bc all the rumors going around and well K just needed to stay relevant. Still weird af.

So here’s the thing about this PR unlike other PRs, H &’ K actually became really good friends, like genuinely. They get along pretty well. So any stunt made wasn’t unbearable to them as it would have been if they’d been stuck with someone else. They’re comfortable with each other (as friends) making their interactions seem genuine. The LLS was just them being friends, the reason Harry decidedly ate cod sperm (don’t forget the whole to spit or swallow thing) wasn’t because he didn’t want to admit what songs were about K but bc none of the songs are about K. I mean how embarrassing would that be if he actually said that? In the Met Gala it was two friends being friends and having fun. The Yatch PDA was clearly staged and weird, I mean wtf was up with H’s fascination with her feet? Anyway there’s more in between the timelines but most of it were just alleged information given by sources ie: K throwing H a Bday gig or their supposed dinner date in which the source states K was beaming. Again no proof (photo or video) yet a source comes out once again teasing and keeping the mystery of it all keeping you in the edge wondering if it is or isn’t.

And that my lovelies is the reality of Hendall, so go forth with what you want with this. Believe don’t believe, up to you. The proof is out there.

[canid-slashclaw]

The Outliers - A Guildwars Love Story

Chapter 6

Two months had passed since the siege against the centaurs had begun in Kressex Hills.  During those tenuous months, Kaleb, Brad and Cynthia would alternate duties between fighting on the front line and running much-needed supplies from the lake-port town.   Kaleb's reputation as a fine cook also began to take hold.  Some of his recipes became so popular that troops from other garrisons would stop by just to sample some of his cuisine.  It was also during this time that he made it a point of volunteering for supply running duty to Triskell whenever the opportunity presented itself. 

He enjoyed the unusual rapport he had developed with the market owner's daughter.  Even though she was a charr and viewed by many of his people as the mortal enemy, he somehow found their respective differences to be intrinsically fascinating. 

Today he was scheduled to pick up a fresh supply of imported cheeses from the marketplace.  Along with the meats, soldiers discriminating tastes demanded an increasing array of finer foods.  He was well aware that all of this was his own fault.  But he simply couldn't help it - he liked to ensure that everyone enjoyed the little things in life for one never knew when all of it would suddenly end. 

The morning was overcast and the plume of smoke rising from the upstairs chimney of the meat market indicated one thing.  Amalthia was there, working away at whatever it was her kind liked to do.  But even during subsequent visits, Kaleb could somehow never work up the nerve to ask her what she was working on. 

He entered the shop and his nostrils were immediately greeted with the familiar array of scents from the spices and herbs.  As always, Ludrick the big tabby patterned charr was there to greet him the moment he walked in.

"Two-thousand pounds of freshly-slaughtered bovine are ready for pickup.  I hope you got some sturdy paws carrying this stuff.  My ankle has been giving me fits and I'm not gonna be much use to anyone today," Ludrick grumbled as he shifted his center of gravity on his crutches.

Two months of coming to these felines' shop and I still don't know either of them on a personal level.  Kaleb mused as he handed Ludrick the work order. 

"Amalthia. Get down here and help this customer.  He's got a meat wagon that needs to be loaded up," the old charr bellowed out towards the upstairs. "Just a minute.  One last spot and I'll be finished." 

Kaleb heard Amalthia's voice from upstairs.   Summoning his courage, Kaleb stood in front of the big charr and quickly asked in a rushed voice.  "So what has your daughter been working on?" Ludrick just shook his head and grumbled.  "Ask her." He then pointed towards the staircase to where Amalthia had already been present.  "Ask me what?" Kaleb swallowed as he was at a loss for words for the moment.  "I was..." "It's okay, just remember your fahrar training when learning to speak.  Or is it the Asuran School of Synergetics?  Either way, you seem to have a hard time completing sentences whenever you are around me." Kaleb looked at Ludrick then commented.  "Is your cub like this to all her customers?"

"Only to the ones who act like fools.  Which, I might add, seems to include everyone."   "Whathaveyoubeenworkingonupstairs? There!  I asked it!" "Is that some sort of lost Orrian gibberish?  Ohh... now I get it.  I think you were trying to ask me a personal question.  Something along the lines of what I do with my time while I'm upstairs.  Am I right?"  Amalthia conjugated her thoughts aloud.   "Well, the acrid smell of burning coal does pique my curiosity.  I can't help but to be curious." Amalthia gazed in his general direction with her amber eyes then replied.  "I am not in the business of forming personal relationships with customers.  If there is something business-related you or your people want to discuss with my sire, or me then by all means, do so.  Otherwise don't pester me with personal questions." Human or not, Kaleb could tell that she had her defenses on high alert. Like the Seraph army he served under, he wanted to strategically break them down.   "Business question." "Okay. Shoot." "How does your shop produce such a large volume of market cuts in such a short amount of time?  And please don't tell me it's a trade secret, cause I know you people have commonplace technologies that our people don't even possess." Amalthia looked at her father who gave his silent nod of approval.   "Did you bring anyone with you this time?" "No.  Just me." "Good. Now take off those filthy shoes and socks," Amalthia said as she pointed her clawed finger towards Kaleb's boots. She led him down the stairs and into the basement cutting room.  For the moment, the room was pitch black.  But with the flick of her hand, a series of gaslight propane lights came to life.   "Tada!  Welcome to the cutting room.  Or as I like to call it, the slaughter shack." The plucky charr beckoned him to tread carefully across the freshly mopped stone floor.   She reached up and pulled back a chain-mail curtain revealing a row of cattle quarters dangling on a series of hooks.  "The cattle are gutted just beyond that doorway over there.  Once they have been dressed, sire and I bring the carcasses here to be cleaned up and ready for quartering." "What do you use to quarter them with... a tree saw?"  Kaleb asked. Amalthia walked him over to a giant fearsome-looking machine that sported a giant saw blade.   As he got closer, Kaleb could hear the high-pressure rushing sound of water that was coursing through the complex array of pipes.   "Steam-powered quartering saw.  Charr trade secret.  You are to keep this mum under sever pain of a horribly gruesome death," she said laconically.  "How charming.  I suppose some of the meat I saw may have very well been the remains of customers who foolishly betrayed your secrets?" "Well, those and the ones who ask too many stupid personal questions.  But other than that, you needn't worry.  The chances of you inadvertently eating your dead uncle are practically nil," Amalthia quipped as she began adjusting the controls of the saw blade.  "Amalthia!  Customer with two little ones." "Great.  Well that's it for now.  I gotta put on the charming routine and help those pesky humans." As Kaleb and Amalthia emerged from the downstairs cutting room, a young mother and her squealing kids greeted them.  "Mommy.  Another charr!" The mother had a brief look of terror on her face as Amalthia kneeled down to make eye contact with the youngster.  Without any sense of fear or trepidation, the little girl started to run her fingers across Amalthia's large horns.  Within moments, the child was playing with her whiskers and ears, apparently being delighted by their twitching movement.   "What's your name, little one? Mine is Amalthia.  Can you say that?" The little girl tried to mimic Amalthia's feline muzzle phonemes as she attempted to sound out her name.   "Ah.."

"..mall.."

"...thia!" Kaleb was utterly stunned.  He was amazed at how patient she was with the human child.   "You are really good with kids.  I didn't expect that from someone like you," he said off-the-cuff. "What is that supposed to mean?  'Someone like me'?" "What I meant to say was, I didn't take you for the type to be so good around kids.  I thought they would push your buttons and drive you crazy," Kaleb replied humbly. "There is a lot about me you don't know or want to know about.  And for your sake as well as mine, it's for the better." Kaleb noticed the other child, a boy, clamoring over one of the displays. 

"Be right back."

He gently picked up the arrant boy then promptly returned him to his mother.  "There ya go fella.  Just keep off of high places, yea hear?  Otherwise you might fall and break something." Without Kaleb noticing, Amalthia witnessed the interaction as a wide grin came over her face that caused her ears to flatten with a sensation of happiness. 

Kaleb walked back over sans the child.  "I disagree.  With your last statement, that is.  Because I would like to get to know you better." "Do you have cubs?" Once again, Kaleb was caught off guard.  But he learned to recover from the initial shock of her bold questions.  "None at present.  You?" "Nada." "Havarti is my favorite cheese.  Okay, that one was pure randomness," Kaleb said in a relaxed tone.  "Goat cheese for me. The harder ones clog me up something fierce.  Randomness back at you," she chided.   "More fiber will fix that issue.  You've been served," Kaleb said gleefully. "Rebound - charrs don't consume fiber.  Two and zero, with Amalthia in the lead." "You moved the goalpost.  That's cheating!"  "Accusing an Iron Legionnaire of cheating is an insult worthy of a duel... to the death!" Amalthia gnashed her teeth at Kaleb.  "Match accepted.  But first - may I treat you to some refreshments?  You know, the kind outside this slaughterhouse?"  Kaleb said with a wink.   The little boy tugged on the hem of his mother's dress and pointed.  "Mommy, that man and that charr are really talking weird to each other." The mother looked apprehensively at the odd bantering between the two then quickly decided it was best to pull up her spawn and leave.   Ludrick planted the palm of his hand over his face as he shook his head. "You cubs are giving me a splitting headache.  Would the both of you be so courteous as to take your jabber-jawing somewhere else? Preferably somewhere far out of my earshot?" "Oh crap!  Where has the time gone?  It looks like the dessert thing will have to wait another time.  I was only supposed to be here for no more than an hour and now look at the time.  I'm going to be in deep dolyak doo with my sarge if she finds out I've been goofing around," Kaleb said with a sigh of disappointment.   Amalthia flicked her ears as she looked over the young soldier.  "Then I wouldn't want to be the one to keep you from your appointed rounds. Meet me by the bay door and I'll help you load up your supplies." As they were working together in stocking up his cart, Amalthia couldn't help but notice Kaleb's bulging biceps as he helped her heft the large hunks of rations.  But she immediately averted her gaze the moment he turned his head towards her.  Once the necessary cargo had been loaded aboard the wagon, Amalthia proceeded to close and latch the receiving bay door.  "That's the last of it," she said with a raised clawed thumb.   "Thanks for everything.  I couldn't have done this without your help.  And next time, I promise there will be desserts," Kaleb replied with a smile.  "Then I'll hold you to your word, Kaleb."

Her ears twitched upon saying his name.  And for his part, he couldn't have felt happier when she said it too.

[punkscowardschampions]

Liam & Edie

Liam: [okay so wrong number text which isn't actually we know, which is just the location of some illegal rave moment that she'll wanna go to] Edie: treasure? ❌🗺 Liam: wooden leg would be useful to hide all the treasure we're bringing in Edie: Gutted I don't know anyone who's ever had an abscess go full necrotic ☠ Edie: and who wants to cart around a treasure chest Liam: don't wanna do your share of the heavy lifting, big surprise Edie: is it? Liam: outgrow this pussy behaviour before tonight as a favour to me Liam: I don't wanna cart that much dead weight about Edie: As I remember it, you owe me though Liam: your memory's in the 🚽 Liam: I owe nobody nothing Edie: yours is selective Edie: can't even get 11 digits down Liam: a barcode's got 12 & I told you it's your business if you wanna walk round inked like you've only lived that many years that's your lookout Liam: not holding your hand Edie: even more gutted, no doubt Edie: 💔 Liam: if you won't be talked out of it, put it on your balls where no-one'll see it Edie: Will you think I'm tough then? Liam: what kind of gay shit is this? Edie: 😂 Edie: go easy on your mate Edie: you got the wrong number Liam: fucked the 11 digits Liam: that's what you were trying to say Edie: mhmm Edie: that's what I said Edie: but a barcode tattoo is a shit idea Edie: agreed Liam: sick of being the voice of reason around here Edie: I find it's more entertaining to let people make the bad decisions, personally Liam: would be jokes until I look a sad twat by association Liam: wants it on his head Edie: 🙄 what's it gonna say, product of the system? Edie: pretty sure a serial killer has already done that Edie: or some shit rapper Liam: he is a shit rapper Liam: [link] Edie: oh Edie: I know him Liam: serious? Edie: by association Edie: I'm a less shit musician in general, not that that's any brag Liam: can I get a listen or you're just here to promo to set me off on a ❌🗺 as payback? Edie: depends Edie: who's heading the rave you linked? Liam: [deets] Edie: alright Edie: you're not 12 like your pal Edie: [links him her music] Edie: [definitely pictures and videos along with, as if you don't know who she is but pretending you don't lol] Liam: come tonight instead of him Edie: talking to strangers is one thing, boy Liam: you leave the bad decisions to everyone else Liam: don't sound as entertaining as it could be Edie: I meant for your safety Edie: could be anyone Liam: be full of nobodys and anyones when we get there Liam: I'm still gonna go Edie: what makes you stand out? Edie: as you ❌ the barcode Liam: when I track you down, I'll listen to your opinion about me Liam: I'm bragging before then Edie: 🤞 we can't hear much of anything over the bass Edie: not that you're intriguing enough to show up for Edie: but the invite is sound Liam: you'll still know what I think, never had an issue with body language over bass Edie: I think I can guess already Liam: 👌 guess Edie: don't take a mind reader Edie: body language and 💭 are one in the same Liam: it don't take a mind reader when you know you're beautiful and talented Edie: ha leave it out Liam: 🧯 Edie: less of that as well Edie: not a wet blanket Liam: 🧨 Edie: that I like Liam: buying 🎇🎆 if you have any requests Edie: [all the party drugs not in code 'cos we're not bothered] Liam: 👾 Edie: NOW I look forward to 👀 you Liam: guessed it Edie: what gave it away? Liam: the vids you linked me to Edie: that's your review? Edie: at least give me some ⭐s Liam: 3.5 Edie: 👌 Liam: I'll give you another 1/2 when the anti barcode tat song drops Edie: what about the other whole? Liam: get him on the track Edie: 😂 Edie: you're on Liam: 👌 Edie: thank god for the edit Liam: & that only you're allowed to freestyle it rule we just invented Edie: good thing I'm more talented than even you are demanding Liam: I'd agree but you've heard it once & you weren't a fan Edie: you can agree when you see it in person Edie: I don't do this online fake shit Liam: I'll have my turn at looking forward to 👀 you Liam: more than down to Edie: good luck Edie: I can't find any cars with spare seats, so it's gonna be a crowd clearly Liam: yours is in if you want his Edie: how will I get my freestyle if he can't catch a ride? 🤔 Liam: shit like that is what earns you the rest of the ⭐s Liam: talent's not just Liam: 🎤🎧 Edie: yeah, I'm well kind and considerate Edie: known for it Liam: good thing I am Liam: [pic of all the drugs he has picked up] Edie: 🤪 Liam: got a 🐷 mask to fit in post raid, can stick it on early if 🥴 isn't doing anything for you Edie: 💡⭐ Edie: if you can't hang with your gurn we can't hang, like Liam: [a gorgeous gurning pic from a previous rave moment] Edie: fit Liam: ha ha ha Edie: don't act like you don't know Liam: I do 👌 out of my mugshots Edie: convince him to get that tatted instead Liam: too gay Edie: alright I'll do it Liam: before or after you take his seat Edie: if you tell me your name I'll save you a spot to earn mine Liam: Liam Edie: alright, Liam, thanks for not having a long and hard to spell name Edie: give me 🖐 Liam: you can have 3.5 again Edie: [purposely leaving it a full five before coming back with his name stick n poked and then a shoddy box for the mugshot portrait to go in] Edie: tada Liam: 👏 Liam: I didn't think you would Edie: if I say I'll do something, I will Edie: why not Edie: loads of Liam's in this town Liam: don't act like it's a standard trick to pull Liam: he's been oohing & ahhing for months over identifying as frozen peas when his face gets scanned Edie: it's a win-win for me, no need to think on it Edie: either you end up being sound, then it's a memory attached, or I get a cool story about getting a tattoo of a mugshot to get a lift to a rave to tell my grandkids Liam: I wanted you to sit next to me 5 mins ago, I can be impressed, can't I? Edie: I accept impressed Edie: and 👏 of course Liam: what did it feel like? Edie: it's somewhere between a scratch and a burning sensation Edie: but deeper Liam: you'll have to do me Liam: I like the sales pitch Edie: what do you want? Liam: what can you do? Edie: on you, a lot better than I can myself Edie: anything you want, I'll make it happen Liam: thanks for accepting impressive Edie: I intend to be so I can Edie: not here to disappoint Liam: I only was willing to be when I thought I was talking to that little bitch boy Edie: no gay shit Liam: unless you like one of the girls in the car Edie: ha Edie: we'll 👀 obviously Edie: where you starting out, anyway, and when Liam: [a time and place, I like to imagine it's a longish drive to give them time to #bond UGH] Edie: [and usually is to go to a middle of nowhere moment so agreed[ Edie: I'll be there Liam: would make me laugh if you don't show now Liam: longest chat I've had for ages Edie: even if I missed you 🚗 I've hitched before Edie: and it's been ages since I've been to a decent party so Liam: my pic could've fooled you but that last one was shit Liam: got a better feeling this time Edie: I feel you Edie: 💊🥤 just makes it tolerable Edie: down to 👀 yeah? Liam: Yeah Edie: better go find my glitter and gemstones out ✌ Liam: I feel you, will take me a while to paint my 💪 UV Liam: not got as steady a hand as you Edie: damn, that was almost impressive Liam: I'll work on it Edie: your steady hand or your bragging about your 💪? Liam: which one's letting me down the most? Edie: 🤔 Edie: you don't need to tattoo me yourself Edie: you are good looking enough you could get away with being cockier, go with that Liam: 👌 but now you've made me wanna tattoo you myself Edie: maybe Edie: if you think of a good idea, we'll overlook the shaky lines Liam: I'll try & think of an idea where wavy lines are part of it Edie: smart Edie: I like it Liam: 🌊 or something Liam: but less shit Liam: 📻 ones maybe Edie: you have any? Edie: professional ones, like Edie: you asked what stick n poke felt like so obviously not Liam: spend my money as fast as I have it Liam: what are you gonna charge me? Edie: what else are you gonna do with it though Edie: see how nice or poor I'm feeling Liam: I won't let the 💊🥤 run out, you'll feel a lot better than nice Edie: deal 🤩 Liam: be me blinded by your glitter & gems Edie: not actually my first rave Edie: but I can raid my little sister's shit if that's part of the deal Liam: see you in a 👑 will I? Edie: that's just standard day to day tbh 🤷 Liam: how many raves have you done? Edie: I've tried not to be in at the weekend since I was like 12 myself so Edie: enough that I know there's nothing fun or attractive about freezing your tits off in a neon bikini in a field Edie: what about you, you're [the year he'd be in which is either 2nd to last or last, either way], right? Liam: hasty to go with unattractive Liam: but yep, you're not wrong Edie: 😏 Edie: I get it, you wanna match 💪 Liam: no gay shit, your own words Liam: I didn't go to my first one until I was like 15, still not impressing anyone here Edie: me either Edie: middle child syndrome or whatever Liam: trade you oldest and only son if you want it Edie: Attention is grand and all but too much parental attention isn't what I'm aiming for Liam: can't offer you it Liam: my parents attention is elsewhere Edie: yours still together? Liam: nah Edie: oh good Edie: wouldn't know what to do with a dad Liam: not lots you can do with mine Edie: might be stuck being ourselves for the foreseeable anyway Edie: not a convincing freaky friday/parent trap situation you and me Liam: shame I won't get to 🎸 & lay down a track with your talent Edie: just buzzin' off all the things I could lift obviously 💪 Liam: this where I get cocky like you said? Liam: go on about how much I can Edie: you could Edie: but I'm clearly impressed before you need to use that tactic Liam: it's too desperate Liam: we both know I can pick you up if you get stuck in the mud later on Edie: we both know it's every man for himself when the 🐷 show Liam: I got you a mask Liam: yours has lipstick and more eyelashes, so we know Edie: thank god Edie: fragile femininity anyone? Liam: prefer toxic masculinity Edie: same Liam: 👍 Edie: if the daddy issues weren't glaring the 👑 will make 'em blinding Liam: we can pretend that since you're with me no-one'll be looking at you if you want Edie: the freedom Liam: I'll give you 🛢🧨 to play with Liam: 🔥 will take the attention Edie: really? Liam: 🎇🎆 wasn't only a code Liam: I do have some Edie: 🤩 no joke Edie: I wanna blow shit up Liam: that's all I ever wanna do Edie: yeah Edie: feel that too Liam: if you can capture 🔥 in a tat that'd be something worth considering Liam: not in a gay way like 🎲💀♠ Edie: that's overplayed, and doesn't mean anything Edie: I'll do some designs, providing I make it home alive Liam: supposed to see my dad tomorrow for the first time in months, don't think I'll rush back Edie: 🛢🧨🎇🎆 why would you Liam: don't feel you have to either, unless you're catfishing me Edie: I'd pick someone else if I was Edie: and you accidentally texted me Liam: I'm into the someone I accidentally texted, full fucking offense to whoever you wanna pick Edie: then I'll stick around too Edie: nothing I'm rushing back for Liam: it's in writing I'm not kidnapping you Liam: have to do a mugshot monday instead or something Edie: feel free Edie: I can't see that I'd mind Liam: being kidnapped or sharing a cell? Edie: hmm Edie: both Edie: though the involvement of bars to keep me about is unnecessary really Liam: does hitchiking only work if you're a girl with killer eyes? asking for myself before we torch the car Edie: as you're toxically masculine, most people'd be afraid to stop for you alone but as we're together, you should be safe and not an axe murderer Edie: unless I'm pulling a Hindley Liam: when we go for that we'll think it through more Liam: 🐶 or 👶 on board Edie: I can borrow one Edie: 👶 more likely Edie: people don't like cats enough Liam: I'll get over a fence to grab us a dog Edie: in one step, like Liam: depending on the fence Edie: sure, don't wanna oversell it Liam: you don't want no online fake shit Edie: just telling you so you know Edie: not the same Liam: thanks for telling me Edie: yeah alright Edie: didn't lecture you did I Liam: nah you didn't Edie: there we go then Liam: [quotes some of her own lyrics at her that he likes because genuinely listening to these tracks] Liam: you could sell that harder Edie: I'll work it out in my freestyle Liam: 🛢🧨 Edie: 🔥 Liam: 🎇🎆 Edie: 🤩 Liam: let's see your glitter Edie: checking it's not a catfish? Liam: can't show you mine first, too cocky behaviour Edie: [a rave lewk when we've clearly done the most to do the least you know the vibe] Liam: [I like to think he's written her name in body paint wherever she put her stick n poke so have a pic of that gal] Edie: 👍 Edie: approved Liam: what do you want your i dotted with? Liam: about as artistic as you'll get me to be Edie: ⭐ Edie: has to be Liam: [an adorable little star has been added so have another pic] Edie: perfect Liam: thanks for having a name that's short and easy to spell yourself Edie: oh yeah, snap Liam: except I haven't met another one of yours Edie: maybe an 👵 Liam: prefer a silent snatch & grab Edie: 😂 Edie: alright, then I can be the one and only Liam: do you wanna guess what I think about it? Edie: I have Edie: be too cocky to say Liam: I'll do it then, you said I can get away with more of it Liam: I think it'd be good if you were Edie: let's see if you're right Liam: feels like I am but yeah we'll 👀 Edie: it is weird Edie: how you randomly found my number instead Edie: how many # were you out by? Liam: you'll have his if you didn't before Liam: last number Edie: crazy Edie: another good story Liam: should've been a 6 but I did a 9 Edie: 🤪 love that Liam: I'll lose my phone again if you're what I find Edie: I'll save your number then Edie: or add it to the tat Liam: since you love how it feels Edie: and I'm no less liable to lose my phone, so Edie: the pain is just a bonus Liam: I can add it as fuel to the 🔥 any time you'd like an excuse to cross my number out & go again Edie: I won't run out of ideas either way Liam: what about space? Edie: not anytime soon Edie: I'll have to go back to biro and keep it less permanent after that Liam: leave it on the bodies of our victims like the shittiest calling card for the 🐷 Liam: call me Edie: ooh Edie: we could get really zodiac with that though Edie: only murder people on days ending in 9 Liam: I like it Edie: I'll go solo if you piss me off and do it on 6 days Liam: I'll start staging them like they've starred in your vids to get your forgiveness Liam: attention to detail for attention from you Edie: we can communicate through corpses Edie: that's new, no one's done that before Liam: when I keep the 👀 as a 🏆 you'll know I wanna see you Edie: romantic, aren't you Liam: toxic like my masculinity Edie: good Liam: ☢️ better than a barcode but not by a lot Edie: I could do you a Chernobyl victim tat Edie: get the toxic and the 🔥 in a really untasteful onner Liam: 👌 you're beautiful, talented & smart Liam: don't give me any flaws to pick at then Edie: I did say untasteful instead of distasteful, if you wanna be pedantic and take away smart so you can save some toxic masculinity points Edie: one-ner, also, doesn't translate to typing Liam: when it took you pointing it out, I don't think I can take anything away from you Edie: you can try Edie: again, like kidnapping, might not mind Liam: I can't help thinking it'd be better to give you things Edie: 🎇🎆🛢🧨? Liam: all that Liam: ⭐🐶👶 Liam: & anything else I've not remembered Edie: we can keep the puppy right Liam: what else would we do with it? Edie: just letting you know I draw the line at puppy killing Edie: get that out of the way now Liam: me too Liam: never microwaved any 🐹 or thrown them at the wall Edie: imagine how big you look to 🐹 Liam: 🏙🦖 Edie: definitely made that 📹 as a kid Liam: I'll be in the remake next time you're stuck for a vid idea Liam: if you still have it, we'll kick it frame for frame Edie: you'd be perfect for my next project Liam: sign me up Edie: [tat pic again like I already did] Liam: what else have you got? Edie: [just a comprehensive pic rundown of your tats that are all just silly ones you've done on the whole hope you've not got them anywhere too scandalous but realistically gonna need to be able to hide them when school so it's probably mostly legs at and like, upper arm and ribs/hip vibes] Liam: 😍 Edie: I'll tell you all the stories later when we're smashed Liam: no awkward silences in the car Liam: great idea Edie: not if the other girls are hot Liam: there's one I think you'd like Liam: you'll have to tell me if I'm wrong Edie: I'll flash a 6 or a 9 and you'll know Liam: she can be our first victim either way Edie: 😈 Liam: 🚗🔥 Liam: 🔐 Edie: 😍 Edie: you win Liam: how do you feel about playing games? Liam: 6 or 9 Edie: 9 Liam: same Edie: I know Liam: yeah, you're smart, I gave you that Edie: how smart is it that I wanna play with you? Liam: I'd call it a good decision, which maybe isn't smart if you only like bad ones Edie: I just like doing what I want Edie: good or bad is mostly irrelevant Liam: so do what you want Edie: you to be here now Liam: direct me 🗺❌ Edie: [at least you've had the good sense to be in town not at yours] Liam: [lord imagine] Edie: [like sure Rio ain't about but still don't need to be inviting you in quite yet lol] Liam: [her room is still there and no thank you hun] Edie: [not today huns, we can either skip to post rave now or post this as is?]

[madphantom]

Phantasm - Chapter 16

The judge and jury were all there, the accusers and accused, all the witnesses, just one person was missing - the attorney.

Phoenix nervously checked her watch. "Where the hell is she?"

"She'll be late, but on time," was all Winslow said. Phoenix rolled her eyes.

Suddenly, without knocking, the door flew open. A woman in black combat boots, black leather and a biker helmet marched into the room.

"Sorry, I'm late," she apologized, taking off the helmet and freeing her blonde curls. "Traffic." It was Emmy.

"Miss Leach, you are, in fact, very late," the judge said.

She shrugged it off and sat down. "Continue."

"And you are the attorney?", the judge asked in disbelief. "Are you sure you're the right person?"

"If I weren't sure who I am we'd have a problem." She smiled coldly. "But I am. Emmeline Joan Leach. Here to accuse the Swan foundation and Death Records company of the false accusation, imprisonment and murder of Winslow Leach. Tada."

Phoenix gave her a tiny thumbs up and Emmy winked at her.

The judge sighed. "All right. Prosecution? You may call your first witness."

It was Casey English, one of the two singers Winslow and Phoenix had met at Swanage. Quietly she told the judge about how she'd talked to Winslow, how he'd told her it was his music and how she'd been raped by Philbin.

The judge nodded. "Okay. Prosecution? You may call the second witness."

"How many witnesses are there?", Jenny whispered to Phoenix as Joan stepped forward.

"Twenty-five," Phoenix replied as quietly as she could.

"Then this is going to be a long night."

Phoenix nodded and sighed. "Yep."

Three hours later, the judge finally, with a sigh, concluded: "Both the prosecution and the defense have now rested their cases. The attorneys will now present their final arguments. Please remember, what the attorneys say is not evidence. However, do listen closely. They are intended to aid you in understanding the case. Prosecution, you may begin." It was dark in the courtroom already. Everyone was too concentrated to switch on the lamp. Neon lights played on the pale faces in the room.

Emmy nodded and stood up, once again showing her towering height. She was 6'5. The neon lights played with her long blonde curls.

"Thank you, your Honour," she said. "First of all, as you can see, most of the witnesses agree that Swan - or rather the Swan foundation and Death Records company - committed the crimes they were accused of. I can confirm what my sisters and parents already stated. We were not notified of Winslow's death. It was kept a secret. Had everything been completely legal we would have been notified of everything that happened in New York. We weren't." She allowed a dramatic pause during which absolute silence stunned the witnesses of what was about to be the most emotional way to prove someone guilty ever witnessed in court.

"My brother," Emmy began. "Phoned us every week. Now, it happens that during our last phonecall my sisters Ellie and Sandy tried to record it. Here is the result."

A man in a black suit worked on a record player, then it started playing a scratchy recording.

"Hello?", Winslow's ghostly voice echoed through the courtroom.

"Winslow!" That was Lucy. "Everybody, Winslow's calling from NYC!"

They heard Winslow's soft giggle on the line. Then Emmy.

"Hey, bro, how's it going?"

"Great! I played after the Juicy Fruits today and guess what happened?"

"You guys, he played after the Juicy Fruits today! What was it?"

"Swan said he'd produce my music!" It hurt how glad and excited Winslow sounded.

"What?!"

"What did he say?" That was Harry.

"Tell us!", Joan begged.

"Swan's producing his music! Did he really say that, Winslow?"

"Yes!" Several people in the courtroom had grown increasingly pale and troubled by the call by now. "Well, actually, he just sent Philbin, his assistant. I gave him my cantata."

"Duuuude." That was Emmy. "That's sick."

"I know, right?" Winslow sounded so happy it nearly broke Phoenix' heart. "Anyway, there's not a lot of news apart from that. My roommate at the hotel moved out because he had no money anymore. But otherwise everything's going normal. How are things in Dunphy?"

"Oh, nothing new." Emmy sighed. "Dad started meeting up with James Cavill to play chess. The twins are trying to evoke Satan, but that's nothing new. It's boring here without ya."

Winslow's smile was audible. "I promise I'll be back soon." Somebody in the courtroom legit sobbed. Everyone turned their head a little and saw it was Mary Margaret Amato.

"A-apologies," she stuttered and wiped a tear off her cheek.

"See you soon then," Emmy said in the recording. "Love ya, bro."

"Love you too, Emmy. Love you all out there."

With a quiet click the recording ended.

"This, Ladies and Gentlemen, is the last thing Winslow Leach has said to us," Emmy finished. "Tada."

The jury stared at each other. Some had tears in their eyes. Then they left to discuss the case. When they came back the case was clear.

"Herb Pacheco, Ernie Brown, Timothy Spencer, Mark Henston, Bruce Fredricks, Jim Grover and Jake Alberto are guilty of aiding Swan with theft, murder, attempted murder, imprisonment and sexual abuse."

"Life!", the judge exclaimed.

"Carlyla Bowie and Mary Margaret Amato are guilty of aiding Swan with theft."

"Three years!"

"Howard Rice, Jack Wesfield and Joe Hart guilty of corruption."

"Five years!" The judge leaned back. "I would like to add something personal from my side. I thoroughly studied this case before judging it and the murder of Winslow Leach is the worst death I have ever witnessed - and I've been a judge for nearly fifty years. I just want to say one thing to everyone responsible for it." He leaned forward. "May you rot in hell!"

The witnesses cheered and clapped. Somebody finally thought of switching on the light.

"We'll celebrate, how about that?", Joan said. "Emmy, congratulations, you won the case for us!"

"Thanks, mum." Emmy was blushing.

"How about a pool party back home in Dunphy?", Joan suggested. "Phoenix, do you want to come?"

She smiled, leaning against Winslow. "Sure."

It was dark when they got into their cars. The roads were empty. Phoenix fell asleep. Winslow drove her to Dunphy.

By the time morning dawned they arrived.

[tigerintokyo]

Ohayou Ikebukuro by Buster Bros!!! (en, romaji, kanji)

English translation, romaji, and Japanese after the cut.

Legend: (by color, does not appear on mobile) Ichiro, Jiro, Saburo, Jiro & Saburo, ALL

English translation

Buster Bros' Good Morning Ikebukuro! Mornin' Bukuro!!

Once again, today, Buster Bros!!! will be delivering the best of the morning to everyone in Ikebukuro!!! Your partners are the Yamada brothers: Ichiro! Jiro! Saburo! Glad to be here with everyone!

To start off, we will be reading some emails. This one is from our listener with the radio pen name "I want to do part-time at Odd Jobs Yamada."

"Starting this spring, I'll be starting high school, and I want to enjoy a romantic relationship. What type of person do the three of you like?"

I still don't really know much about love~ I don't usually talk about that kind of thing But, thinking about it, I like a natural figure [1] I would want to have a romance with that kind of girl, yeah... I am not that interested in girls I still usually hang out with guys But, even so... if I have to say... Hm... I think I would like a kind girl I like the strong ones (That's our bro!) You know what I mean, bros? (Yeah! Yeah!) I like super strong ones that would never lose in a fight *That's* what you mean by strong?

Now for our first corner "Good Morning Battle Poetry!" [2] Going hard from the morning, as usual. This is the battle we want to spread all over the world. The three of us will make a 5-7-5 (haiku) comedic poem! [2] First is Ichi-nii!

"Oncoming car lane, I'll overtake everyone, how easy peasy!" [3]

What kind of dialect is "peasy"? [3] Not to mention the traffic violation! Okay! 5 points! Yeah, you’re right, I'm sorry... Ok, then next is Jiro ♪

"Ikebukuro, any other division will kneel down to us!"

Yeah! You're definitely not wrong! We are the strongest! Buster Bros!!! Let's keep riding this! Next is Saburo!

"Jiro-chan~ Hold my hand and let's go to... the children's center"

What did you say? Is that supposed to be a diss? It's nOT a DisS~ [4] What did you say?! OK, OK Battle over! This time the winner is Jiro!

Hey, how can keep going if you guys are fighting? (Sorry, but can you play the jingle?)

Good Morning! Everyone in Ikebukuro, how are you? Starting now, Brand New Days Buster Bros!!! Here with Bukuro's best bros, Let's go, everybody, mornin' Bukuro (This is the best!) Feeling good from the morning (Fight!) Everybody, mornin' Bukuro (I know) Even if you have days when you're down (Let's go!) Everybody, mornin' Bukuro

(You are listening to 29.6 Bukuro FM) If you're worried about something, leave it to us. We are here to support the city of Bukuro. Cheap, fast, robust, high quality, Odd Jobs Yamada ♪

Okay, let's keep going! Next is Ichi-nii’s “I can’t say that!” corner! (Yay!) In this corner, we asked for words that Ichi-nii “definitely cannot say”! Let's give it a go!

First up is from pen name "Bukuro Heads" A note from a regular listener CHECK OK then, everyone, get your ears open and LISTEN "Since it's my first time, be gentle with me." I can't say that! Absolutely cannot! Next is from pen name "Yamada Shiro" [5] OK, try to do the next hard-to-say line! "Buy me some macarons~" I can't say that either! Absolutely cannot! Next is from pen name "Morning Brothers" OK, Nii-chan, give it to us! "Jiro, Saburo, I love you." ……… I wanted to hear that! For sure! Hurry up and end this corner! Buster Bros' Good Morning Ikebukuro!

This show is also coming to an end. Today the theme was "New Lifestyle," so last but not least, to all the people who are starting off a new life today... Here's a special message from us!

For always tuning in to listen to us, really THANK YOU ! [6] Let's take a step forward, 1 step All of the haters aren't even in our sights Once again, let's start today, Brand New Days Let's go into the shining sunshine The air of this clear morning sure is nice Turning your face down [7], that's no fun! OK, are you ready? Standby OK! Dreams are always on a huge scale Take aim at that future and shoot, bang! Instead of turning around, only face forward Everyone in Bukuro, Have a nice day!

(Starting, Brand New Days) Good Morning! Everyone in Ikebukuro, how are you? Starting now, Brand New Days Buster Bros!!! Here with Bukuro's best bros, Let's go, everybody, mornin' Bukuro (This is the best!) Feeling good from the morning (Fight!) Everybody, mornin' Bukuro (I know) Even if you have days when you're down (Let's go!) Everybody, mornin' Bukuro Have a good day!

Romaji

Buster Bros no ohayou Ikebukuro Oha bukuro!!

Kyou mo koko Ikebukuro kara, ore ra Buster Bros!!! ga saikou no asa o todoke!!! O aite wa Yamada kyoudai, Ichirou! Jirou! Saburou! Minna, yoroshiku!!!

Sassoku MAIL o shoukai shimasu. RADIO NAME "Yorozuya Yamada de baito shitai" san kara

"Kotoshi haru kara koukousei, renai o tanoshi mitai desu. Sannin no suki na type wa?"

Mada koi toka wakannai~ Konna koto fudan wa katannai Demo yappari shizendai Sonna josei to shitai renai, uun Betsuni onna nanka kyoumi nee Mada asobu nara otoko doushi de Demo maa, aete iu to shitara Uun, yasashi joshi ka na Ore wa tsuyoi hou ga ii (Sasuga!) Wakarudaro, kyoudai? (Un! Un!) Maji de kenka ni makenai tsuyoi ko toka ii Tsuyo itte sou yuu koto kaai?

Saisho no CORNER wa “ohayou kenka senryuu!” Aikawarazu asa kara HARD da na. Yo no naka ni kenka o uritai koto o, ore ra sannin ga go-shichi-go no senryuu ni shite iku ze.! Mazu wa Ichi-nii!

“Gyaku shasen minna de wataru zo raku jyaken!!”

“Jyaken” te nani-ben da yo! Shikamo koutsuuihan dame! Hai go-ten! Da yo na, maji gomen... Jyaa tsugi! Jirou, ikou ♪

"Ikebukuro, do no DIVISION mo hire fusu zo"

Ye-! Machigai nai ze! Ore tachi ga saikyou! Buster Bros!!! Nokkete kita yoshi! Tsugi wa Saburou!

"Jirou-chan~ o te te tsunaide jidoukan"

Nan da to DISS tten no ka yo! DISS tte mashe-n Nan da to deme! Hai hai shuuryou Kon kai wa Jirou ga yuushou!

Oi, omae ra wa kenka shite dou sun dayo? (Suimasen, JINGLE itte kudasai.)

Ohayou! Ikebukuro no minna choushi dou nano? Ima hajimaru BRAND NEW DAYS Buster Bros!!! Koko bukuro saikyou no kyoudai to LET’S GO EVERYBODY oha bukuro (Saikou) daze asa kara ii kibun (FIGHT!) EVERYBODY oha bukuro (I KNOW) Ochikomu hi mo aru kedo (Saa ikou!) EVERYBODY oha bukuro

(YOU ARE LISTENING TO 29.6 BUKURO FM) Komatta toki wa wareware ni o makase Bukuro no machi o ore ra ga sasaemasu Yasuku te, hayaku te, takumashii, HIGH QUALITY, Yorozuya Yamada

Dewa tsuzuite wa kochira! Ichi-nii no “ore konna koto iwaneeyo!” no CORNER (Ye-!) Ichi-nii ga “zettai iwana sou na kotoba” o boshou shiteru CORNER desu! Itte miyo~

Mazu wa PEN NAME “Bukuro no HEADS” Jouren-san kara no otayori CHECK Sore jya minna mimi sumashite LISTEN "Hajime te da kara yasashiku shite ne." Iwa nee! Zettai iwanee! Tsugi wa PEN NAME “Yamada Shirou”-san Sore jya iwana sou na koto itte miyou ka! "MACARON katte kite~" Kore mo iwa nee! Zettai iwa nee! Tsugi wa PEN NAME “MORNING kyoudai” Sore jya nii-chan itte choudai "Jirou, Saburou, aishiteru ze." ……… Sore wa itte moraitai! Dayone! Hayaku kono CORNER owarasero! Buster Bros no ohayou Ikebukuro!

Bangumi mo owari ni chikazuite kimashita. Kyou no te-ma wa shin seikatsu nano de, saigo wa atarashii kurashi o hajimeru hito tachi e Ore ra kara no MESSAGE!

Itsumo kiite kurete maji san kyu de-su Fumi dashite kou ONE STEP HATER tachi nante ganchuu nee Hajimaru ze kyou mo BRAND NEW DAYS Ikuzo furi sosogu SUNSHINE Sunda asa no kuuki nanka ii Shita muite tatte tsumannai Sore jya junbi dekiteru STANDBY OK! Itsudatte yume wa dekai SCALE Sono mirai ni mukete nerai ute BANG! Furimuku yori tada mae muke Bukuro no minna HAVE A NICE DAY!

(Hajimaru BRAND NEW DAYS) Ohayou Ikebukuro no minna choushi dou nano? Ima hajimaru BRAND NEW DAYS Buster Bros!!! Koko bukuro saikyou no kyoudai to LET’S GO EVERYBODY oha bukuro (Saikou) daze asa kara ii kibun (FIGHT!) EVERYBODY oha bukuro (I KNOW) Ochikomu hi mo aru kedo (Saa ikou!) EVERYBODY oha bukuro Itterushai!

Japanese (kanji)

Buster Bros！！！ のおはようイケブクロ おはブクロ！！ 今日もここイケブクロから、俺ら Buster Bros！！！ が最高の朝をお届け "お相手は山田兄弟、一郎！二郎！三郎！ みんな、よろしく！！！" 早速メールを紹介します ラジオネーム“萬屋ヤマダでバイトしたい”さんから 今年春から高校生　恋愛を楽しみたいです　三人の好きなタイプは？

まだ恋とかわかんない こんなこと普段は語んない でもやっぱり自然体 そんな女性としたい恋愛　うーん 別に女なんか興味ねー まだ遊ぶなら男同士で でもまぁ　あえて言うとしたら うーん　優しい女子かな 俺は強い方がいい （さすが！） わかるだろ兄弟 (うん！ うん！) まじで喧嘩に負けない強い子とかいい 強いってそういう事かーい

最初のコーナーは『おはようケンカ川柳！』 相変わらず朝からハードだな 世の中にケンカを売りたい事を、俺ら三人が五七五の川柳にしていくぜ まずは一兄！ 「逆車線　みんなで渡るぞ　楽じゃけん！！」 じゃけんて何弁だよ！ しかも交通違反ダメ！はい5点！ だよなマジごめん…じゃあ次！二郎、行こう♪ 「イケブクロ　どのディビジョンも　ひれ伏すぞ」 いえー！間違いないぜ！ 俺たちが最強 Buster Bros！！！ 乗っけてきたよし！次はい三郎！ 「二郎ちゃん　お手て繋いで　児童館」 なんだと Dis ってんのかよ！ Dis ってましぇ～ん　なんだとテメ～！　はいはい 終了　今回は二郎が優勝！

おはよう　イケブクロのみんな調子どうなの？ 今始まる Brand New Days Buster Bros！！！　ここブクロ最強の兄弟と Let’s go Everybody　おはブクロ (最高) だぜ　朝からいい気分 (ファイト！) Everybody　おはブクロ (I know)　落ち込む日もあるけど (さぁ行こう) Everybody　おはブクロ

You are listening to 29.6 Bukuro FM 困った時は我々にお任せ ブクロの街を俺らが支えます 安くて、早くて、たくましい、ハイクオリティー、萬屋ヤマダ♪

では続いてはこちら！『一兄の“俺こんな事言わねーよ！”』のコーナー！ 一兄が“絶対言わなそうな言葉”を募集してるコーナーです！ 言ってみよ～ まずはペンネームぶくろのヘッズ 常連さんからのお便り CHECK それじゃみんな耳すましてリッスン 「初めてだからやさしくしてね」 言わねー！絶対言わねー！ 次はペンネーム山田四郎さん それじゃ言わなそうな事言ってみようか！ 「マカロン買ってきて～」 これも言わねー！絶対言わねー！ 次はペンネームモーニング兄弟 それじゃ兄ちゃん言ってちょうだい 「二郎三郎、愛してるぜ」 ……… それは言ってもらいたい！ DAYONE！ 早くこのコーナー終わらせろ！ Buster Bros！！！ のおはようイケブクロ

番組も終わりに近付いてきました 今日のテーマは新生活なので、最後は新しい暮らしを始める人たちへ 俺らからのメッセージ！ いつも聞いてくれてまじ39でーす 踏み出してこう 1 step ヘイターたちなんて　眼中ねー はじまるぜ今日も Brand New Days 行くぞふり注ぐ　サンシャイン 澄んだ朝の空気　なんかいい 下向いてたって　つまんない それじゃ準備できてるかスタンバイ OK！ いつだって夢はでかいスケール その未来に向けて狙い撃て Bang！ 振り向くよりただ前向け ブクロのみんな Have a nice day！

始まる Brand New Days おはよう　イケブクロのみんな調子どうなの？ 今始まる Brand New Days Buster Bros！！！　ここブクロ最強の兄弟と Let’s go Everybody　おはブクロ (最高) だぜ　朝からいい気分 (ファイト！) Everybody　おはブクロ (I know)　落ち込む日もあるけど (さぁ行こう) Everybody　おはブクロ いってらっしゃい

T/N

Physical attribute: “natural body” or “natural figure”

The “poetry” is a traditional comedic haiku called “senryuu.” Yup, they’re battling with haikus.

Ichiro uses a weird ending, so Jirou asks him what kind of dialect that ending is from. I just made it into “peasy” which also isn’t really a word but slang.

Saburo is basically pronouncing it like this…

It’s using the Yamada brothers’ naming system of (number)-rou, so it’s actually 4-rou, and is pronounced “Shirou.” What a great pen name, right? A listener from my own heart…

In the original Japanese lyrics, they wrote “san kyu (thank you)" as “39,” and I thought that was interesting/clever.

More literally, the translation is “facing down.”

[raleigh-ocean]

the originals & valentine’s day | headcanons

Dara Ann Lynch

Billie couldn’t get her eyes off Dara, not today at least, but she had the feeling that she wouldn’t be able even if she was forced to. Her lover was searching for something in the wardrobe, clad in that flowery silk robe she had always owned and only that; her tattoos on display, thighs as well and even her scar was nothing compared to the beauty of the rest of her body; sporting again her hair short, disheveled from spending a day in bed with Billie; and then she singsang happily a ‘gotcha!’ and turned around with a tiny envelop in her hands.

“Close your eyes, honey,” and Billie looked at her like ‘do I really have to’ while sitting up in bed, which gained her a smirk and then the cutest pout ever, making her comply but open her arms so Dara could get in them, sitting in her lap. Which it was what the woman did automatically, having Billie’s arms circling her. “Was it that difficult, mhm? Okay, in the count of three. Three, two, one...”

When Billie opened her eyes, chin resting in Dara’s shoulder and caressing with her thumbs her belly over the robe, the tiny envelop was in reality a tiny velvet box. Open now, there was a metal pendant with a black stone - a black tourmaline - in between strings to hold it in place in the middle of it. “I know you don’t do the ‘stupid crystal stuff’ but...I have a friend that do handmade things with them, pulling a favor they owed me I got them to teach me and tada!” Billie lifted her hand so she could take it from the box by the silver chain attached to it. “Do you like it...?”

And Billie can only kiss Dara because she doesn’t even have words to say how much she likes it, loves it; she doesn’t know what to do to surpass this gift and, on top of all, she doesn’t want her lover to see how she actually teared up. Her chest is roaring, so loud that her heart hurts a bit, and when they finally broke the kiss the only thing Billie did was to press her forehead softly against’s Dara’s. 

“Will you help me with the clasp, my Valentine?” she whisper softly, afraid to give away she’s really moved with the gesture. 

She doesn’t need to say another word, because as soon Dara’s done, she can catch how full of love her lover’s eyes are filled with. And maybe Billie’s mind made up and making love to her once more was the best option, that sweet ol’ good love making. 

At least it would give her time to rethink what to get her, because her now ‘lame’ plan of buying her a rose and inviting her for dinner sounded too little, too little for someone that deserved all the red roses Billie could buy in California and all the stars in the universe. 

She was very much afraid of saying those three words Dara wanted to hear but let her take her time with, eight years already since they were together, but upon seeing how Dara’s eyes lit up in that way that made her younger later in the night when she gave her a whole bucket of roses...maybe, maybe, it made her feel that oh so awaited day was about to arrive.

Adriana Girardi

Sally has a hard time around these dates, who could blame her? But what she did not expect was for someone to get it worse than her. 

When she had come downstairs, she couldn’t find an explanation of why Elizabeth had come down from her own room to the bar. But then she looked a bit better just to see how Adriana was all dressed up, days without actually doing so and just wearing sweatpants, with what it looked some really fancy clothes out of the 30s, her hair styled the same way and making Sally to picture her right there.

She was drinking from a tall champagne glass, as did Elizabeth, and then is when Sally managed to see that Adri was holding a dark blue velvet box in her free hand, dancing softly to the rhythm of the jukebox she managed to save in an auction. 

“Every twenty years, she does that,” Elizabeth spoke up, hearing the silent question of her fellow ghost. “It’s a tradition already. She gets drunk on champagne and dance on her own for as long as she’s standing up, holding to the box she never gave her,” and her voice is not full of snark, there’s only a softness Sally’s sure she never heard in her. “My girl got it bad, Valentine makes her miserable...yet she manage to hold up to see another twenty years.”

Sally knew mere bits of Adriana’s life, but through the years together in the Cortez, she managed to catch as much as knowing her friend had lost someone so important that totally wrecked her. They stood there until Elizabeth had to pull her friend to sit in a couch nearby and Sally decided to sit by her side, full knowing Adriana wasn’t remotely sober enough to talk probably. But she stick to her, letting Elizabeth know she got her even when she was watching over from a corner of the bar. Adriana didn’t even muttered a word, she just sat there in silence and moving her arm just to keep the champagne getting in her system.

Worrisome? Of course, but rare? Not at all. She had watched the afflicted drink two whole bottles of vodka without blinking an eye, so this wasn’t weird at all. However, Sally was sad and needy and the question popped out of her when she saw how Adri managed to focus her eyes in something else that wasn’t her glass.

“Do you think someone will gift you something again?” it was a rude mumble, but it got the reaction of having her blink and look at her. “Today, I mean...I don’t think I’ll ever will anymore.”

And Adriana seemed to restart her whole being, like she really saw how from behind the drunk haze, something moved. And then her voice came out as steady as you can be after like ten champagne glasses.

“You wait here, okay? Don’t move, don’t you even dare, I’ll know,” her voice was so fucked up, but Sally stayed where she was. “Promise? Pinky promise.”

The only thing for Sally to do to let Adriana go was to accept her pinky. Then she set off somewhere, making Elizabeth to get in panic because she couldn’t be able to follow her, taking in count Adri was pretty much alive and could leave the Hotel as she pleased...which was what she always did, getting everyone worried.

However when she came back, a big box in her arms and a paper pocking out of her back pocket, Sally was too focused in her phone to notice her. Elizabeth’s features relaxed visibly but also she lifted an eyebrow in confusion. Under the surprised gaze of Elizabeth and Liz, Adri managed to stand up on a chair behind Sally and then...

...she started to shake the now open box to make a petal shower start to fall lightly over Sally. The woman looked up to her, between the tears and the petals, to see the dorkiest smirk in the other woman’s lips and when she ran out of petals, she jumped off the chair to look directly at her before handing Sally the paper.

“What’s this...?” Sally mumbled, finding out it was a card. In the front there was something very bad drawn, maybe could be a cat or a skateboard or a tree or maybe a Picasso, who knows, but when Sally opened the card...well, she couldn’t help but laugh out loud, more tears running down her cheeks. “You’re such a dork, smarty pants.”

“If someone deserves to have a good Valentine is you,” Adriana put her hands in her own hips. “So I’m genie for you, girl, what do we do today?”

Sally couldn’t help but stand up and hug tightly her best friend. From that year onwards, every Valentine’s Day Adri would gift her a card with the corniest pick up line, styled with Adriana’s illegally beautiful handwriting inside and illegally awful draw on the front, but Sally would always put the one she gifted her that year (the one with ‘Well, here I am. What are your other two wishes?’) as her favourite of them all.

Adriana could hate Valentine’s Day with her all, think that she didn’t deserve anything, but seeing Sally enjoying...maybe that was enough for her. And Sally didn’t waste her last wish, because deep in her she knew one day she will need it to save her best friend...save her from herself.

Raleigh Ocean

“Did you really used our son as your Cupid?”

Wilhemina tapped the floor softly with her cane, drawing Raleigh’s attention from her laptop. Her wife was all cuddled in bed, glasses perched in her nose, and tired expression in her features. For sure that year didn’t start well, Raleigh still recovering from her breakdown in early January, but that day proved that there was a minimal chance that she was getting better. Raleigh quirked her lips ever so briefly, putting a hand to her lips and faking feeling offended.

“What are you implying, miss Venable? I would totally never do something so atrocious,” her voice was a bit monotonous, as usual these days, but Wilhemina heard the joking tint laced. “What’s a God to a non believer? If Cupid wanted to show up and do their thing, I have nothing to do with it.”

She closed the door behind her softly, shaking her head a bit. Eric, their nine years old son, had spent the day delivering tiny boxes with chocolates to those who were his family. Queenie, Zoe and Mallory, Madison, an scandalized Coco, Rhiannon and Victoria, and a delighted Misty (even a confused Kyle) had received the tiny gifts from the kid gladly. But when he had showed up to Cordelia and Wilhemina’s office, delivering the final part to both women, she had known her wife was behind everything.

Who used chili powder with homemade chocolate if it wasn’t Raleigh? 

Cordelia, the old sap, had hugged Eric and thanked him right away, Wilhemina was sure she even teared up because she was like that. But she had seen how her kid didn’t get close to her afterwards, indulging in how his godmother was loving him, and she could see how he was hiding something in his hoodie. Oh how surprised Eric was when Mina asked him with a soft smirk if he was sent by his mother, which made Cordelia to look scandalized for a second but then Eric had put that lost puppy face that gave every lie away and she just knows. Eric quickly makes his way to her, kissing her cheek before she can catch him, and leaving her chocolates and something that looked very much like a book.

“Also that would mean you are Venus and I Mars,” Wilhemina reach for the bed and seats on the edge of it close to her wife. “Or maybe the other way around? Oh, that would be so romantic of you, but you forget that I’m a simple mortal upon your magnificence and not a God, as much as you repeat every so often.”

“Nerd,” it’s the only thing she can say before leaning to capture Ray’s lips with her own, getting a big kiss in return and a delighted hum. 

“Not as big as you, mi reina,” and Ray looks at her directly in the eyes after pushing her glasses up in her head to rest, her tone ever so soft overwhelming the automatic one she has these days. “Did you liked your gift?”

And Mina couldn’t help but chuckle, looking at the copy of ‘The Merchant of Venice’ that she has in her lap right now. Pocking from the pages there’s a bookmark and she takes it so they both can look at it. Written in Raleigh’s hurried handwriting, there’s a date and a ‘would you like to take a walk with me?’, and before taking the bookmark out it was marking a bit of the sixth scene in the second act. Wilhemina memorized it, taking to her heart all that.

‘Beshrew me but I love her heartily, For she is wise, if I can judge of her, And fair she is, if that mine eyes be true, And true she is, as she hath proved herself. And therefore, like herself, wise, fair, and true, Shall she be placèd in my constant soul.’

“I hope this means we are taking a walk to the French quarter,” and Ray placed her laptop in the free side of the bed to be more comfortable, sitting with her back to the headboard and lacing her fingers with Mina’s. “And not actually flying to Italy.”

“If that’s what I wanted to mean, don’t you think I would have gifted you ‘All's Well That Ends Well’ or ‘King Lear’?” they both end up chuckling to that, because every surprise with Raleigh has a meaning in her perfect way. “I thought we deserved this, only us...but mostly you.”

“Little Cupid isn’t coming?” there’s a hint of worry in Mina’s voice but she’s now climbing to the bed, hearing the door getting magically locked.

“I got an A plus babysitter for that,” Raleigh was welcoming her wife with open arms, holding her close to her body and kissing slowly from her shoulder through her neck and her lips again. “This means we have a date?”

“Let me give you an answer later, I’m not really sure about it yet,” and the teasing tone in Wilhemina’s already means a big yes, but they know how to drag everything just for the sake of it.

“Oh, definitely you are Venus, how whipped you have Mars.”

That’s the last thing Raleigh says, because now both are too busy to think or say anything more. Having a bit of intimacy after weeks feels great, the thought of spending time away from their daily lives even better, but what makes Wilhemina feel that everything is finally moving forward again. 

And overall, that her wife still had that soul that drew her in eigthteen years ago in a pub in Los Angeles, strong enough to make her move across the country barely a few days after they said ‘hello’.

Karina Sväre

Lana felt herself wanting to laugh, because this was truly something else. Well, she actually didn’t expect anything to begin with, but she couldn’t really picture Karina to do that.

Again, they’ve been off for a few years, but a couple months ago Lana had broken up with the girl she had been seeing for a couple years. It didn’t pain her that much, not this time at least, but after a few days of recovery she had showed up in Karina’s doorsteps with an invitation to get coffee and a couple new books she was sure her dearest friend didn’t have in her bookshelves. 

Karina had welcomed her to her new home...and also her work space. She couldn’t say she was surprised when she had told Lana about what she wanted to do, to help all those girls and kids in need of a home, but what surprised her was that today the living room of Karina’s home had been decorated with some stuff to make it look thematic.

“Sorry,” a little voice came from behind her and when Lana turned around, a girl barely twelve was waiting with a cat in her arms to walk in the living room. “Aunt is in the kitchen, if you are looking for her.”

“Oh, thank you very much,” she didn’t even took off her coat, just walking towards where Karina was, in words of that little girl.

And when she arrived there, Karina was hand in hand with an older girl mixing something in a big bowl. Something twitched in her brain for a second, taking a better look to her lover and then...

“I can’t believe you cut your hair...that short, oh my.”

Karina turned her face enough to catch the surprise in Lana’s face, feeling how her ears were getting red and warm really fast. She was sporting an garçon haircut, her ever so black hair barely having white hairs here and there, which was a truly surprise because she had spent ten years growing her hair along the hippie movement. Lana couldn’t say she wasn’t a bit sad, mostly because she loved brushing with her fingers Karina’s hair, enjoying how soft was...but this new change suited her.

“Oh shut it,” was the first response she got from the woman, who was now gesturing the girl to leave it to her. The girl chuckled but complied, closing the door after her and leaving the two women alone. “Are you gonna give me a hand or should I kneel and ask, princess?”

That earned her a soft push to her shoulder before Lana took off her coat, leaving it in a chair from the tiny kitchen along her bag. And when Lana took the spoon from her hand, Karina kissed her shoulder with love.

“So this is what are we doing this year?” Lana smiled at the gesture, starting to mix the chocolate batter. “Spending Valentine’s at home instead of going to our favourite restaurant?”

“I thought it would help Carla and Vivien to adjust, being together with people,” Karina whispered, rubbing her ear a bit and getting the freckled skin there red. “I don’t know, maybe with this we make Georgie to come out of her room...” Karina sighed and looked at Lana with the shadow of a smile in her lips. “And I’m baking your favourite chocolate cake, so don’t complain.”

Oh, Lana won’t ever do that, as much as she liked to tease her lover here and there. Honestly, she kinda loved staying at home for once, being able to spend time in a space where they were safe. And, well, she had to admit that ever since Karina started her home for youth, it was more difficult to see where to make time to spend it together idly. That and Lana’s show getting that famous.

“Aw, you only bake my favourite cake when you...” then she realized that Karina was looking away, her hand in her pocket. “When you want me to stay for more than one night.”

“I’ve been having nightmares again and I thought...that maybe you could stay for a few days, if it’s okay with-”

And Lana didn’t let her finish the sentence, because she would say ‘yes’ a thousand times and more, without a doubt. She leant to capture Karina’s lips with her own, having missed her all that time they were apart, and then pressed her forehead to Karina’s so she could look at her eyes better. It always amazed Lana how green could be her eyes, but at the same time have gold and hazel around to bring it out.

“Of course it is, but you’ll have to lend me some clothes for the day, Nina,” was the only thing she said before going back to the task Karina asigned her. 

“Yeah...” Karina was now beet red, fumbling with whatever she had in her pocket, and then her hand was in front of Lana’s view. “I got you this, by the way...I know it’s not much, but, well...”

When Lana opened her eyes, with the sweet memory fading as the make-up girl finished the last touches for the interview, her eyes went first to Marion and then to the ring in her left middle finger, an old golden band with a tiny green agate in the middle.

How could nothing meant so much? 

That’s what she thought, taking in count the tiny chaos that was her old mind in that moment. A new Valentine and she was going to spend it giving an interview,..the interview in which she would tell the whole truth finally. How much she wished to not even be there, but the only thing she promised herself was to get through it and maybe, after dinner, she would indulge in calling Karina.

Telling her what she did during the day and maybe remind her about that Valentine’s day around mid eighties in which Karina almost made her stay forever by her side.

Danna Bishop

“And now, we will need a volunteer for the next trick, would someone in the crowd give us a hand?”

Ally couldn’t help but laugh at her fianceé’s antics, watching Danna faking to doubt who to pick out of none int the living room. Ozzy was with her, clad in a tuxedo almost identic as Danna’s, doing the same crowd searching until Ally raised her hand innocently. They both faked a surprised gasp and then Danna offered Ally her hand.

“The pretty lady in the front, please, come here,” Danna winked at Ally, making her giggle once again and they laced fingers almost immediately, matching rings meeting with a soft clink. “Now! I need my assistant to bring the deck, because we’ll get this lovely woman’s card!”

When Oz was off the retrieve the deck, somewhere in the kitchen, Danna took advantage to kiss the ‘volunteer’ all big and eager. 

This was the first time in three weeks they had been able to relax, taking in count Ally’s new campaign was starting, so at least having a moment to breath was good. But Danna had differently ideas of what a ‘moment to breath’ meant, which went along the line of what they were doing now instead of the old ‘let’s have wine after dinner and maybe we can cuddle and then not cuddle?’. She always thought of the bigger picture, the bigger and unexpected picture that kept Ally’s life to get a boring turn. 

And she loved that...and the way the tuxedo fit her in the right places, but that was another story.

When Ozzy finally made his way back, Roberto was following him with a tiny bow tie in his collar. The too tiny and maybe a bit ugly old chihuahua quickly made his way towards his humans, making Ally pick him up as soon as he was by her side and kiss his head lovingly. Danna smiled widely when Ozzy went to her with this big card deck, too big even for doing tricks, and Ally looked at them with somewhat of curiosity peaking out from her eyes. 

“I’ll need you to pull a card and I’ll try to guess it,” she offered the deck and as soon as Ally touched one card, she knew it was handmade because of the paper. “C’mon hurry, hurry, magic waits for none.”

“Okay, love, just,” she laughed, supporting Roberto in her shoulder a bit while flipping the card to read whatever was there or see whatever drawing it had. But what she encountered wasn’t hearts, clovers, spades or diamonds; it was something completely different. “Wait, what’s this?”

“I don’t know, what is it?” oh, when Danna played dumb she got this softer look in her eyes and the goofiest grin on ever.

The ‘card’ displayed a few plant details here and there and in the middle, with elegant font, there was a tiny message. An invitation, well, it looked more like a reservation for a few days in a spa...in Los Angeles. It started to raise too many doubts in Ally the second she read it all, but then Danna put her hands in her face to make her look directly at her eyes.

“Danielle’s gonna watch over Oz so we can have some time alone, and she even agreed to take in Bobito too,” Danna smiled at Roberto, which had his tiny head all cuddled in Ally’s neck. “I got the flights, have the money aside for it, schedules, everything so you don’t have to worry about anything but enjoy.”

“But what about...”

“Mom, let mama take you in vacation, it’s a surprise! You always wanted to do that!” Ozzy took Roberto from Ally’s arms easily before stepping back a bit so he could watch them with a huge grin on. “And Damien told me they will show me a really cool comic store, so please let’s go!”

And when Ally only nodded with the softest ‘okay, we’ll go’, words stuck in her throat, Ozzy cheered and ran to his room leaving both Ally and Danna in the living room, speechless. Every second in silence passed with a heaviness and then a sob broke it. Ally got startled because it didn’t come from her, which was a surprise, and her eyes went to Danna. She was trying to press the heels of her hands in her eyes, trying to stop the fat tears running down her cheeks somehow.

“Ally, he called me mama,” something inside Ally vibrated with new strenght, enough to feel like she was able to fly in that moment, when Danna managed to say something without looking at her. “Fuck, he called me...fuck...”

It was supposed to be Valentine’s day, but right after Ozzy did that, that day was one of the most important for both Ally and Danna and not because of something any of them did for each other. They would go to the spa, for sure, they would have a blast there and Ozzy would enjoy his stay with Danielle, Damien and Audrey as much as if he was with them...

...but for the day, Ally was trying to not cry herself to death because her son gifted them two the prove that this was working out really well.

Dahlia Deen

Her body felt like she was going to break in a million pieces.

Dahlia had a while without feeling like that, but it was a good feeling this time. Well, good feeling, more like this time she was grateful of feeling like that instead of wanting to pull her hair out in a maniac tired rage. She barely managed to fall backwards in the bed, letting go a ‘ufhg’ when her column relocated after the whole day.

She wasn’t the best at building furniture, okay? Indeed, she had to check too many times the manuals to build it correctly, but she managed to do it with patience and a phone call to her dad when Shelby had went out to buy some sandwiches. But there was some kind of relief knowing that she managed to do something like that, taking in count they didn’t have much time before they arrived.

“You should take a shower, Li,” Dahlia had her eyes closed and hummed in response upon hearing Shelby’s voice. “You’ll feel better.”

“I don’t think I can get there By,” a soft laugh got out of her chest more than her throat, making her feel her joints hurt with the slight movement. “Do I even have bones and muscles?”

“Of course you do! Turn around and take off your shirt,” and Dahlia complied, because Shelby could tell her she wanted her to jump in the ocean and she would do right away. She didn’t mind at all, she indeed loved that part of them as a couple because Dahlia trusted in her wife with all she got.

Dahlia couldn’t see Shelby because her face was pressed to their pillow, not caring a single bit about her glasses getting a bit smashed by doing that, but she did feel her climbing in the bed and then straddling her like that. Groaning softly because of that, loving how Shelby’s weight pressed her body against the bed, and then giggled when the wet ends of her hair dropped some water droplets in her bare back. Shelby’s hands, sweetly cold, started to work and her fingers pressed in those spots her wife always had trouble with, doing wonders.

“The fact that you have healing hands is distracting me of the fact you are just in bathrobe sitting on my ass, you know?” Dahlia mumbled, turning her head enough to rest better in the pillow and Shelby laughed, leaning to press soft kisses down her spine. “Miss Deen, you’re such a tease.”

“Ah, am I, miss Deen?” they both laughed at that and Shelby pressed her fingers right in the base of Dahlia’s head to ease the knot there, earning a soft moan. “And having you strip like the easiest thing what makes you?”

A fool in love with an angel. Dahlia thought, keeping it for herself and just chuckling as a response. Things like this reminded her why they were together, why they decided to fight for each other and keep going, now with new rules, new feelings and new old heart.

Shelby kept massaging Dahlia with care, touching here and there as she knew. It was the least she could do, after being all day working around the house. It was easy to love Dahlia, she was caring and soft and too good for anyone in this world. Sometimes she wondered how Dahlia kept on loving her, many of them she wanted to ask her, but she knew it was something that her wife kept close to her heart. Focused on the task, Shelby barelly noticed how Dahlia had relaxed enough to start breathing deep and slow, falling asleep deeply.

“Happy Valentine’s day, dearie,” Shelby always felt calm when they were together, Dahlia always making her feel at ease and not on the verge of a violent outburst of unspoken feelings. She leant with care, leaving a kiss in the back of her head and then behind her ear, whispering her next words while taking off her glasses. “I love you more than words can say.”

At that, however, something unexpected happened. Shelby didn’t have time to climb down from the bed nor from her wife, because Dahlia turned around to place herself between her legs and over her, making her circle her waist with them thanks to that. Then she took advantage of the new position to kiss her fully on the lips, deep and calm as the ocean Dahlia was so afraid of.

“I’m sorry I didn’t get you anything, or cook you something nice for dinner,” Dahlia managed to sound small and shy in such position, kissing Shelby’s neck slowly in between words. “It’s no excuse, I know, but...”

“It’s okay Li, I prefer you loving me all year long than showing me one only day that,” Shelby chuckled breathlessly at that, getting turned on as the seconds and kisses went by, her hands finding their right places at Dahlia’s nape while her wife loosened her bathrobe. “Also, you already gave me the greatest gift...”

And when Dahlia looked up at Shelby, which was a bit blurry because without glasses she was blind as a mole, she could discern the soft redness in her blue eyes. Something in her chest swelled up, all warm, sweet and maybe a bit scary...but the good one of scary, that type which made you be more excited and make your tummy churn for it.

That’s why they’ve spent the day reforming their shared office, building bunk beds and accomodating everything so the new lives they were gonna receive would be comfortable. It took a lot of hard work, a lot of thinking, a lot of everything so they finally were ready to be foster parents.

If there was one thing Shelby still wanted was to be a mom, but the only thought of getting pregnant again scared her to death and Dahlia didn’t want her to go through that again, and also she wasn’t sure she was ready to give birth now...or never. So adoption was the next thing they thought and then, well, there they were.

“You’re gonna be an amazing mother, By,” it was time for Dahlia to be breathless, pressing a new kiss to Shelby’s forehead. “I saw you with my nephews and nieces, you truly...glow. Even with the oldest, and you know how is Eva with her things.”

Shelby wanted to say something else, but she was moved by Dahlia’s words. It was going to be hard, that for sure, but she believed they were meant for this. They had overcome too many bumps in the road, they were in a place where they had been able to heal...and it was about time to take a new step in their lives.

Leah and Johnny were in their way, and Dahlia and Shelby were going to give them the home they deserved.

But for now, still childless, Shelby let herself drown in Dahlia’s presence and warm arms. She would have to shower again, that was for sure, but as soon as her wife had her hands on her, fingers caressing in the right places...well, let’s say Shelby knew her ocean arrived to swallow her whole.

Gabrielle Summers

Winter looked up to the doorframe once again, encountering another little bundle of mistletoe of all things tied up there. Annoyingly, she looked around to see if her girlfriend was somewhere to be seen and then jumped to take it off, not wanting the glue to ruin the wood and having their landlord make them pay for reparation.

Seriously, it was the seventh mistletoe she took off around the apartment and the place wasn’t that big! They weren’t even in Christmas, why was there mistletoe to begin with!?

And when she got to the kitchen, there were fake spiders with candies attached from Halloween here and there, making Winter to rub her forehead and sigh deeply before going to get all those things off...and maybe eat the candies while she was at it.

At times Winter didn’t know why Gabrielle was that way, but as she was cleaning the corridor from more spiders, mistletoe and...were those petals? she thanked to be with her in that tiny apartment in Queens. Indeed, she was very thankful of having such lovely idiot loving her every day, without a fail, because at the end of the day Gabrielle was her idiotic heroine, and that wouldn’t change for the rest of their lives.

Getting used to live without fear was...an experience, to be completely honest. But Winter still got nervous when things around her started to happen all of a sudden, per example, how their stupid apartment was decorated in all those things from different festivities.

However, when she opened the bathroom door, she felt herself loosen the grip she had over all the things she had been picking up to drop it in the tile floor. Feeling how her mouth opened a bit, speechless, Winter tried to wrap her head around the fact that her too tall girlfriend was barely fitting in the small bathtub they had, legs handling from one edge and over the other near the wall. There were more petals here and there and Gabrielle smiled widely at her, as if she wasn’t being so effortlessly sexy doing such stupid thing.

For some reason, Winter loved every weird stupid thing Gabrielle did.

“About time, Winnie,” she laughed, hazel eyes shining with happiness. “Wanna join me in this so special Valentine’s day?” Gabrielle was...charming to say the least, black short wet hair all back and strong arms waiting to hold her. “Oh, you found all the clues to find me, did you like them? I couldn’t buy like...dozens and dozens of petals, we don’t make that much money, so I had to get creative.”

Sexy, charming and all...but she was just the dorkiest of them all...and all hers.

Winter laughed from the deepest part of her soul, using her feet to kick the stuff she dropped and soon she was out of her clothes, trying to fit with Gabrielle in such tiny space. It was difficult for sure, but they managed to make it, Winter basically sitting over Gabrielle and having half her body out of the water though.

“You’re unbelievable,” Winter traced with her fingers the curve of Gabrielle’s biceps, taking her time and making the other girl to close her eyes in pleasure. “I thought I was going crazy with all those mistletoes.”

“Why do you freak out with harmless plant but not with murderous spiders,” Gabrielle chuckled at that, taking in count she hated spiders so much.

“Because spiders doesn’t bite and if you get under the mistletoe...that’s what you get,” she replied, giving a knowing look to her girlfriend, who only laughed because last Christmas their making out went overboard. “They are quite nice.”

“You are quite nice,” Gabrielle’s hand moved to caress Winter’s belly, slow, tracing her thumb over the skin there and getting Winter to roll her eyes back and bite her lip. “I took the night off from work, so...we have all day for us, honeybun,” there was a soft tint of sweetness in Gabi’s voice and that only made Winter to move her hips. “So...what my queen wants to do? Aside of the obvious.”

How could Gabrielle be like that? That was a question Winter always asked herself since the day they met. But also...how Gabrielle could look at her in the eye, knowing all what she did. She never replied, because Winter was the one asking always everything and nothing, but sometimes she got the feeling that the only thing Gabrielle wanted was to rebuild and forget about Michigan.

And that was something Winter was wishing too, to forget all the pain, all the trauma, all the nightmares that plagued her every night since they left.

“Having pizza on bed and watching ‘Grey’s Anatomy’,” she mumbled in response, leaning in to kiss Gabrielle as her life depended on ti, making at the same time that the water threaten to overflow. “Buying that videogame in discount you liked and playing until I want to fuck you again, what does my knight in not that shiny armour thinks?”

They were weird, that’s for sure, but they loved each other very deeply and in a way they both feel like they belonged somewhere.

Joking between the walls of their tiny apartment in Queens, waking up every morning to go to uni hand in hand, eating lunch while talking about the day, bidding farewell when Gabrielle had to go to work and welcoming her home every night.

Gabrielle knew Winter hated many festivities, even Valentine’s day, but having her indulge was one of her biggest achievements. She knew her girlfriend indulged many times for her, but those times were she was just doing it because she actually wanted...well, those were trully a blessing.

“Knight in shiny armour is all in.”

Rowan Ramírez

Oh shit, his hands were sweating so bad. 

Rowan was trying to calm himself down, rubbing the back of her neck and then trying to swipe his hands in the back of his thighs. In his head, all he could think about was all those tiny advices his sister gave him, going through them with the outmost care because he didn’t want to fuck this up.

After a while of trying to take a faith leap, Rowan finally did it after finding himself thinking all day and all night about Coco. He knew that it was going to be hard, taking in count they lived as far as each other in the other side of the country, but he wasn’t remotely scared of from trying to start the relationship. And that was almost more than a half year ago, time making him bolder and more like Raleigh than any of them expected...at least in the being stubborn and spontaneous in times of need.

However, he couldn’t figure out how all of that had brought him to New Orleans in secret just to surprise his girlfriend for Valentine’s day. 

Maybe it was that he was head over heels in love with the blonde witch, that he wanted to make her as happy as he could, that he was trying to picture himself by her side as long as his mind could...and in between all of that, Rowan found himself finally knocking on the front door of the Academy.

Raleigh had let him in from the other house, so he didn’t have to go through the ‘the Academy’s barrier would want to eat you if you touch it’ part of the plan. After letting Sidonia know he wasn’t going to play fetch with her, kissing his baby nephew’s head and saying ‘hi’ to his sister-in-law, which was reading in the kitchen in that fine Sunday morning; he had armed himself with the bouquet of roses he bought in his way here and went to retrieve his girlfriend in the other house.

The waiting was so painful? He thought to himself, putting a lock of his hair behind his ear, trying to not go and start jumping to relieve some of his stress. But it was then when the front door opened, just to show Misty’s concerned face...that eased into a funny one as soon as Rowan came into view.

“Ahm...uhm, I-I’m here to...well, oh God,” fuck, fuck, fuck him and his shit ass nerves. Now words didn’t make sense in his head. But Misty took pity on him, putting a reassuring hand in his shoulder before throwing her head back enough to yell.

“Coco, there’s an Amazon guy in the door askin’ for you!!” and that only made Rowan to go beet red, because the white lie kept rolling in order to let him surprise his oblivious girlfriend. Girlfriend that was frying his phone, in her back pocket, with messages at that point of the day.

The new waiting time was even harder than before, but as soon as Rowan overheard the quick click click of Coco’s heels along feeling her magic approaching, he started to relax. He felt how her lips quirked in a goofy yet shy grin and when Coco realized it wasn’t an Amazon guy but Rowan who was waiting for her in the front door, her hands went directly to cover her mouth and her eyes visibly watered.

“Don’t cry pretty, please,” was the first thing Rowan said, because his inner panicker jumped in action. Then he handed the bouquet to her, still goofy grin on. “So...I hope you don’t have date for Valentine’s, because I’m asking you for one now,” he chuckled to let the last bits of nervousness go away and Coco hugged the bouquet to her chest with care before reaching for him. “Would you like to go on an ice cream hunt to the French quarter with this poor warlock in love?”

“Of course I do!” Coco let out the cutest yelp as response, Rowan finally taking her hand and pulling her close to lean and kiss her lips, a peck that started the biggest bonfire in his whole body. “Just let me take my purse and put the flowers...”

“No, no purses, I’m inviting you today,” Rowan knew Coco was happy to always pay for everything, but he had been working hard all year to earn money and spend it on his loved one for once. Maybe it was because of the way his mother raised him, that his aunt Abigail raised him, but he usually didn’t like to be treated to things (and Rowan only let his big sister to treat him because a) Raleigh was a bit scary; and b) ‘Twenty years apart gave me the right to treat you for another twenty, so shut up.’)

“And I’m taking the flowers, so!” Mallory appeared behind Coco, giving Rowan the biggest smile ever because of how happy it made her know her cousin was being happy and in love with her best friend. “Take her before she start her yearly rant about red velvet cake, Roro!”

Rowan complied, laughing at that because he knew how his girlfriend was with food. But having Coco by his side again, after months of chatting and videocalling through their phones and laptops...well, for him it didn’t matter if she went a bit overboard with her powers...and with her chatter, for that matter. He was always more like a listener than a ‘talker’, which was good for how many stuff Coco had to say, and Rowan tried to kiss Coco’s cheek from time to time to see her trail in whatever she was saying.

Overall seeing how happy was Coco, made all the sleepless night planning this trip worth it, but what made Rowan the happiest was that he was able to find someone who loved him for who he was.

Danielle Bishop

Audrey could tell Danielle was feeling on top of the world right now.

It obvious by the way she was talking more confident, her face glowing up without any trace of the usual tiredness she carried, and drinking red wine like it was water. Maybe that last bit was because she was a bit nervous, making Audrey to chuckle when a new anecdote fell from her lips because seeing her girlfriend nervous was truly a thing, taking in count it was more a thing of Danna than Danielle’s.

For Audrey, it was cute and heartwarming. Mostly because she didn’t expect to come home to having the kitchen all ready and set to have what it looked like a romantic dinner. Of course they’ve been exchanging messages, kisses and Audrey had woken Danielle up with a nice surprise just because. It was the third Valentine they spent together, being the first one and the second one spent having a little date to a coffee nearby to Danielle’s office because she was working on a case for several days and didn’t have much time, and Audrey was thankful that her girlfriend gave her such big private thing.

Damien wasn’t there, mostly because her father had come to visit her and he was spending as much time as he could with her, so they didn’t have to worry about her much aside of waiting for Dara’s call that she arrived to Billie and hers’ house safely since they wanted to have a bit of privacy for the day. The fact that Danielle’s ex husband was around, also, had them both worried and this was truly a shot of fresh air from thinking.

Cliché as it was, they shared their classic dinner in between laughs and kisses. As far as Audrey knew, Danna had helped Danielle to cook everything through videocall, which knowing both probably was full of yelling, reassuring words, two times almost giving up and Danna cheering the loudest when something turned out what it was supposed to be. But Audrey loved every bit of the cliché situation because her life wasn’t full of those at all, taking it with her whole heart because after moving in with Danielle, each day it passed it made her see that she was feeling at home finally.

It was a good sensation, it made her want to go back to Danielle’s arms all the time they were apart, to provide with the same love she was being pampered with. And after all those years, it was the only thing she wanted, being completely honest. Any doubt she had was reassured and kissed away, any problem that might rise was taken care diligently so it wasn’t a bigger problem...and having some control over the chaos that her life was, made Audrey to go and thank her partner endlessly...even more.

“Okay, are you ready for my amazing strawberry cake?” Dani announced, after downing her third glass of wine with, food finally gone and Audrey wanting to leave her seat and go reclaim her rightful spot in Danielle’s lap. “It’s ugly and maybe a bit too sugary? but I did it all by myself.”

“I’m sure it’s amazing, my darling,” Audrey was looking at Danielle dreamly, detailing how she chose the burgundy shirt Audrey loved and those dressing black pants that fit her too damn well, long black hair pulled back by her nervous hand and wide smile clinging to her lips and making her want to kiss it for the rest of the night. “You know I like sweet stuff.”

Audrey winked at that last thing, getting a big hearty laugh from Danielle and a kiss that knocked the air out of her lungs before she went to retrieve the cake from the fridge. She took advantage of that to check her phone, sending a picture to Billie of the whole table and brag about it, because why not? Audrey checked her texts while Billie replied and soon she got a picture of Dara, sleeping over Billie with the cutest pout in her lips and ‘I’ve tired out my Valentine :(’ under.

She giggled to that, typing a fast ‘you two are truly unbelievable’ before she overheard Danielle’s steps coming back. Putting down her phone, she waited for Danielle to put the cake in the middle of the table but her girlfriend had another plan it seemed. So she walked towards her, leaving the whole plate in front of her and then kissed her temple with love.

“Are you expecting me to eat all of this by mys-” Audrey started to say, but was cut mid sentence when Danielle didn’t go back to her seat, kneeling by her side so that way Audrey had to look down to make eye contact with her. “What are you doing there, silly?”

“Well, it’s kinda obvious...I think?” Danielle laughed softly at that, one of her hands resting in Audrey’s thigh while the other was out of view because she was getting something from inside her shirt. Like, Audrey saw her do that many times before, hiding stuff like money or her phone in her bra, so she was over that already...however she didn’t expect Danielle to pull out a tiny velvety box. 

It was then when Audrey’s heart stop beating for a second.

“Look, all this time I tried to be sincere with you, and sometimes I wished to do things...in a better way, but it didn’t matter because we got through it and you never left me, even when I thought the worst of me, even when things weren’t as pretty as we both wanted,” Danielle was trying to keep looking at her and Audrey was feeling how her body re-started with the sudden speech. “I...well, after my divorce I didn’t think I would be able to love someone this...deep, but you didn’t give up on me, you showed me that not only me but both deserved another chance, and what the hell, we make a good Uno couple...and Damien loves you,” that drew a choked chuckle from Audrey, in the verge of the sob. Damien truly liked her, and that was one of the biggest goals she accomplished. “I thought we could step up our game...because you are the only one I see myself getting married with and I want to keep on make you happy till the end of our days and beyond. So, Audrey...would you marry me?”

And then Danielle opened the box with trembling fingers to show her girlfriend the gold ring with the tiny jewel in the middle of it.

Three years had passed and Audrey still couldn’t believe Danielle, of all people, had trouble to do long speeches taking in count her line of work. But she got why she couldn’t, because for years she didn’t show she had feelings at all and talking about something you so worked so hard to hide was difficult...and that’s when Audrey entered the picture, being emotional, being vocal about everything, showing her that it was okay to show what was inside without fear of judgement.

“Dani...” Audrey closed her eyes late, her tears spilling in a very dramatic turn of the events, but one that entered the million possibilities Danielle had planned in her head. “Of c-course I do, damn it, yes, yes and ten million times yes!”

it was time for Danielle to laugh, to let out the breathe she was holding in a ragged way because all the nervousness melted the moment she slipped the ring in Audrey’s finger. She didn’t take in count, however, that Audrey would take her to the ground, hugging her like no tomorrow and kissing her as if she needed her to keep being alive.

In between kisses, laughs and trying to make it to the couch, forgetting about the cake over the table, Audrey thought that Danielle, in the end, was what she was looking for all those years. She didn’t need someone that complied to everything she said, she only needed this someone to feel she was enough for her, that she was loved and cherished by her...

...and, as her fingers found every button from her favourite Danielle’s shirt, that someone finally had a face, and a body for that matter, to die for. Which wasn’t necessary but oh good Lord help her that it was a good plus.

Cold-hearted Severa

Mr. Mumbles cooed in her shoulder as they moved through the camp, feeling how a little happy tune was bubbling in her chest and getting through her as a little hum. Selene wasn’t much of a happy-go-lucky person, always worried about everything and nothing, but today she felt lucky enough to get things right through the day.

She was one of the few that were lucky enough not to get many looks when she went to town, so that morning she had rolled down along Jimmy to get some groceries there and also the bouquet of daisies and dandelions that she was now holding tightly in her grip. There was this giant field in the way from camp to town and she only trust in Jimmy to not spill the beans, so she had asked him to take her with him to pay a little visit.

Taking a few breathings to calm herself down, Selene used her nose to give a cuddle to her companion, her face taken hostage by the monkey like always. She chuckled and poked him in the belly, his weak spot, and then she was free to keep walking towards the siameses’ tent. 

It was her main goal and the reason she was taking this big ass step, all the courage she had tied in a knot so it didn’t fly away. She had fixed the handmade bouquet specially for Bette, but since they both would see it, Selene had fixed it with two different flowers so that way both had something pretty to look at for a while.

Her heart was hammering its way in her chest, reminding her sweetly that she was very much alive. She was taking advantge that she saw them in the main tent to do this, because she wasn’t as courageous to actually look them in the eye to give them the gift. Selene didn’t want to impose in them, she much preferred to look from the distance and watch them being happy, knowing she wasn’t enough for any.

Bette and Dot had made it very clear that their feelings weren’t the same, and Selene took that to her heart, her love for both still there but also growing when Bette confessed later that she was confused about what to feel. That was enough for her, to be honest, she thought while leaving the tiny bouquet over their desk and starting to run back to Eve’s ban. 

It didn’t matter they didn’t love her, she was pretty much content with being their friend at least, and as a friend she had left those pretty flowers to make this Valentine’s day better for them.

When she arrived with Eve, she looked at her with a lifted perfect eyebrow, asking silently why such hurry...only to see that Selene was handing her something. She loved the twins, that for sure, but Selene wouldn’t forget about her best friend and how much she also loved her.

“Is that for me?” Eve blinked confused upon seeing the tiny present, the one that Selene spent her savings in, and took it in her hands with care before unwrapping it. “Oh dear, it wasn’t necessary.”

But Selene smiled widely, in silence like always, waiting for Eve to see what was inside. She had taken note of how pretty her friend found those earrings she was now pulling out of the box, once they went to take a walk in town and passed by a jewelry shop. Selene was always taken little notes about what other people needed, it was common for her at this point.

“I can’t believe you went back and bought them,” Eve shrieked in delight, standing up fast to wrap her best friend into a tight hug before planting the biggest kiss on her lips, like she always did. “You’re a blessing for sure, sweetheart, thank you very much.”

Maybe Bette and Dot didn’t love Selene back, but when Eve looked at her with that shine in her eyes, it made Selene think about the possibilities of staying with her best friend for the rest of their lives.

She didn’t know what the future would hold for them, but as long as she kept at least Eve by her side, she was quite content to keep living her life as it was. She could learn to love better, she could learn to be more brave, maybe a bit more unspoken at times? And maybe someday she would be able to feel at ease in a place.

Because, yeah, the show was all she got but she couldn’t call it a home.

And when Eve asked her to get dinner only the three of them, because she always included Mr. Mumbles, Selene thought that maybe one day her true home would become a place in which none felt left out.

[knives-and-lint]

27

“I'm telling you,” Margo insists, hands on her hips, and staring up at the TADA sign on the opposite wall. “There's something there.”

Julia sits on the floor in front of the couch, combing through a book on pyromancy, smirking that the subject coincides with her ears suddenly burning. Instinct telling that though she has not been mentioned by name, the subject of Margo's statement is obviously her. Though only separated by a shelf lined with cocktail glasses, neither one of them seem to notice she's there.

“Something where,” comes Eliot's noncommittal reply, bottles clinking in hand, as he experiments with new concoctions for the upcoming party this weekend.

“Quentin,” she pushes. “Julia. You know, whatever thing they have going on.”

Eliot takes a loud sip of whatever he's made, swishing it out around like mouthwash, before a disgusted groan escapes his throat.

“No, no, no,” he dismisses, shifting more bottles around. “That won't do.”

Margo huffs audibly.

“Are you even listening to me?”

More booze gets poured into the mixer, as Elliot lifts to shake not stir.

“Of course, Bambi,” he placates. “They're best friends. Like us.”

The drink is poured into another glass, which must be offered up to Margo, because she mumbles 'uh uh' just loud enough for Julia to hear.

“No El,” she assures. “It's deeper than that.”

Eliot scoffs with dramatic shock.

“Deeper than our connection? You dare?”

Julia turns the page she's been holding between her fingers for nearly a minute, having not bothered to read it, and most likely won't read the next one as well. Eliot smacks his tongue with the latest mix, exuding a tone of delight.

“Yes, this one. Mark it down.”

“Mark what down?”

“You haven't been taking notes?”

“Does it look like I've been taking notes?”

“Fine,” he sighs. “I'll just have to remember. Moving on.”

Julia doesn't dare to turn her head, having not been noticed still, wondering if the subject will be dropped after the conversation derailed. It's not, when Margo continues on.

“I'm telling you, they're inseparable.”

“That's not true,” Eliot counters. “They're currently separated as we speak.”

“You know what I mean.”

More bottles clinking. More liquid poured.

“I assure you, I don't. Besides, shouldn't you be more focused on your own love life?” he questions. “A certain bespectacled magician you would love to have loosen up both metaphoric and literal?”

Margo clucks her tongue.

“Look, all I'm saying is that if someone's panties are in such a twist, it's gotta be worth it when you get into them. And stop changing the subject.”

“Heaven forbid,” he teases, swiftly stirring his latest mix.

The door opens then, and Julia doesn't even have to look, knowing it's Quentin. Confirmed when he's greeted enthusiastically by the pair, shouting his name, and practically forcing a drink into his hand.

“Strong,” is the only comment he gives, voice sounding strained.

He must spot her through the wall, because footsteps make way toward her, and she looks up to welcome him with a smile.

“Oh shit,” curses Margo from behind. Realizing in that moment that Julia was present for her entire thought process into she and Quentin's relationship.

“Hey,” he greets, after shooting Margo a furrowed look.

“Hey,” she echoes.

Pulling the messenger bag from his shoulder, he drops it on the couch, and moves to sit next to Julia on the floor. It feels impulsive, however premeditated her action, leaning over to give him a big comical smooch. He's puzzled but amused, when she leans back, reaching up to tuck some hair behind his ear.

“I fucking knew it!” Margo exclaims.

/\

Julia slips through the door as quietly as she can, rubbing sleep from her eyes, and gets exactly two steps into the hall before running into someone despite the late hour. Jumping back, her eyes strain against the dark, but has a good feeling who it is.

“Penny?” she asks.

He lets the silence linger a beat or two longer than necessary.

“So it's not just him,” he replies enigmatically.

“I'm sorry?”

“Your boy,” he goes on, thumb jerking toward the door. “Is like a goddamn radio transmitter most of the day, and your name comes up about as often as those stupid books he likes. But I thought he was just another loser stuck in the friend zone.”

His eyes dart down to her bare legs, and Julia remembers then that the only thing she's wearing is one of Q's shirts, slipped on because it's the first item of clothing she found when rising from the bed. He's quiet again, but Julia isn't sure of her part in keeping the conversation going.

“Well he's not,” she gives.

Even though her eyes have adjusted, she can't seem to get a grasp on the look he gives her.

“What?”

“Don't you know you can do better?” he asks. “I mean, a lot better?”

Julia crosses her arms and frowns.

“Wow,” she deadpans. “We've known each other for barely over a month, and you already feel comfortable judging my love life?”

“I didn't mean-”

“Yes, you did. And fine, whatever, another man's opinion I never asked for. But I have to wonder, what makes you a winner?”

“Huh?”

“You called him a loser,” she reminds him. “Not for the first time, by the way. But what exactly are you winning, that he's losing?”

Penny looks at the door to Quentin's room a moment.

“I don't know,” he admits. “Life? Some guys are just-”

“Life,” she repeats, cutting him off. “Last I checked, he goes to the same school you do. Lives in the same house you do. Has a girl sleeping in his bed almost every night like you do.”

Penny's head tilts at her.

“Yeah, I know about Kady. Everyone knows about Kady.”

“It's not a secret. Unlike-”

“Unlike what?”

“You and some nerd obsessed with kids books,” he shoots back. “Sneaking around the house, like no one is supposed to know.”

Julia groans in frustration.

“The fact the you, and anyone else in this house, couldn't see it because the possibility never entered your minds? Sounds more like your problem than ours. And those kids books you're always making fun of? How do you think he got obsessed with them in the first place?”

Penny's lip curls into a slight smile.

“Look, I get it. You got that whole bad ass loner thing going on. Which is fine. You do you. But one day you just might care about someone enough to let them see you. The real you. Day in and out, without fear of judgment, or punishment for mistakes. To see them at their worst, and love them anyway because you'll know without a doubt in your mind, they feel the same for you.”  

Silent again, but she knows this time, it's because he just doesn't know how to respond to that.

“Okay, good talk.” Julia says, moving to pass him. “Now excuse me, it's the middle of the night, and I really have to pee.”

/\

“You know,” Julia begins, setting the book in hand atop the table, then pushing it away. “My brain might actually be full.”

Alice looks up from her own book, brow arched at the statement.

“I'm kidding,” Julia assures.

“No,” Alice replies with a shake of her head. “I know. You just... I don't think I've seen you put a book down before going through it three times.”

Julia smiles.

“Feeling strangely confident,” she states. “Like I got this. For the first time in my life, I feel I'm exactly where I should be.”

The look on Alice's face is telling in that she can't relate. Julia wonders what it would have been like, growing up her whole life with magic, knowing it was real and the possibilities endless. Though, if her childhood was anything like Alice's, the wonder of it all would have faded quickly. Watching your parents use it for a life of leisure and decadence. Losing your brother to it's power.

“I've never felt like that,” Alice offers quietly.

Julia purses her lips.

“Not even here?”

Alice shakes her head.

“There's... Expectation here. Like everyone looks at me and assumes I'll just be great. That it all comes naturally because my parents were these grand magicians, even though that's the furthest fucking thing from the truth. My brother taught me more than they ever did. When he died, I had to figure the rest out for myself.”

Julia smiles at her.

“That's why I like you.”

Alice smiles shyly in return, and they hold steady for a beat.

“So,” Julia begins wishing to lighten the mood. “Is Margo still sweating you?”

Alice flushes quickly and stares into her lap.

“Sweating me?” she questions.

“Something Q says,” Julia informs. “I mean, with all the flirting she does-”

“She's very forward,” Alice interrupts.

Julia laughs.

“She is definitely that.”

Alice sighs.

“I don't know,” she begins. “I'm not good with, I mean I've never-”

“With a girl?”

Alice sighs once more.

“That part doesn't matter,” she states. “But someone being interested in me? That's not.” She clears her throat. “I know I'm guarded most of the time, and that usually keeps people away, but...”

“But not Margo.”

Alice shakes her head again.  

“You and Quentin,” she starts. “When did you... You were friends first, weren't you?”

“Best friends,” Julia confirms.

“And one day, you just what? Crossed the line into something else?”

“Kind of,” Julia gives. “I mean, it was a little more complicated than that, but if I think about it. Yeah, there was definitely a day it changed.”

Alice leans slightly forward, very interested to know.

“When?”

Julia hesitates in telling a moment, and Alice back peddles not wanting to overstep.

“You don't have to tell-”

“The day he came back from the hospital,” Julia answers. “He was in a bad place. Really bad. And they said it was for observation, but then... Then they kept him for six months.” She takes a breath, blinking quickly, and trying to push the emotions of the memory down.  “The day he got out, I was there, and I promised I always would be.”

Alice looks on curiously.

“That's when you knew?”

Julia shrugs.

“I've always known he was like me,” she explains. “But I never thought to question why. Until we came to Brakebills. Turns out it was magic that drew us together. Real life magic. How could you not love someone for that?”