#like WOW people think of my story when they hear songs or are just out and about like DKJKSD AHHHH I'm combusting that's so

[lambilegs]

I’m not sure if you listen to Lucy Dacus (lovely queer musician, her song Night Shift got big on TikTok some years ago) but her two newest singles “Ankles” and “Best Guess” feel very does it happen in a season college!Lee and reader to me.

Ankles being about wanting to take the jump and start a relationship with your friend. It’s such a sweet and domestic song while still having sensual lyrics.

Best Guess is also entirely Lee and reader coded but a certain lyric comes to mind right now. “After all, it’s a small world. You may not be an angel, but you are my girl. You are my pack a day. You are my favorite place. You were my best friend before you were my best guess at the future.”

Thinking thoughts about Lee Harker,,,,need that

DUDE. I LOVEEEE HER SONG NIGHT SHIFT. I found it in a jackie taylor edit, and I've been obsessed with it ever since. it's so melancholic and takes me to this whole other world. I even added it to one of my instagram posts, hehe. but, I don't know much of her other music!

okay, first off, I took a while to respond to this because this ask had me so insanely excited and I wanted to answer in detail and let you know which lyrics really caught my attention in the songs. to bounce off the first of those things, truly, thank you SO much. like, I cannot exaggerate, when I saw this ask, I got so giddy and happy inside, because wow, it's amazing to me that you heard two songs and they made you think of my fic, like!!! that is amazing to me, and it means so much, and I will have this ask lingering on my mind for so long. does it happen in a season? is especially such an important story to me with its themes and focuses, and I still miss writing it so much :( so, when I get asks on it, it makes me so incredibly happy.

OKAY, NOW, TO THE SONGS, HEHE.

ankles is so good! I love the violin in the background, and I feel like the song has this intensity to it that makes you feel the excitement and anticipation of falling for someone and wanting to move forward. and I agree, the lyrics are so sensual, and it definitely reminds me of how lee and reader have this sexual attraction for each other since the get go, but it morphs into this really lovely emotional bond too.

What if we don't touch? / What if we only talk / About what we want and cannot have?

LIKE!! this is literally them!! every touch being such a big deal, hesitation painting every flinch and stroke. so much talking, so much pining, but touching being such a frightening, yet exciting ordeal to get through together.

I want you to show me what you mean / Then help me with the crossword in the mornings / You are gonna make me tea / Gonna ask me how did I sleep

THE DOMESTICITY AHHHHHHHH!! it just reminds me of how they play cards together, lee makes reader coffee several times to show her care, they always ask after each other's classes and little moments.

Agent of chaos, angel of death

AHHHHH LITERALLY HOW LEE IS THE ANGEL FIGURE IN LONGLEGS AND HER LAST NAME IS HARKER AND AND

best guess literally has me :""") it just sounds so fresh, like spring. and it's so romantic -- it reminds me of a lazy summer morning. like, I need summer to come just so I can listen to this when my friends and I drive somewhere.

Tracing your tan lines / Making you mine

LIKE. LIKE. WHEN LEE IS TRACING READER'S BACK THE MORNING AFTER THEY SLEEP TOGETHER UGHGHHHJHHHHH

If this doesn't work out / I'll lose my mind / And after a while / I will be fine / But I don't wanna be fine / I want you, you, you are

like, when they say that any breakup they could face, they'd face together 😭😭 but, they both don't want to breakup, and just wanna be together forever 😭😭

Here is the church / Here is the steeple / You were looking for saints / But you only found people

this. like, this reminds me so much of the theme of religious trauma in the fic, specifically the scene when they're at pride and lee sees the church and immediately lets go of reader's hand. like, I don't know, this lyric reminds me of that scene in which the people who lee spots at the church are just that -- people. but, due to her own relationship with religion, she sees the group of people outside the church, and that inherently carries so much shame, anxiety and fear for her. like, she feels like the people of the church hold this power that can dictate if she's morally transgressed, but the reality is that they're people just like her and just as human as her. but, due to her trauma, it can be difficult to see them in that way, rather than as these people who'll use their reigning position to cast judgement on her. people who you'll use this idea that they're "saints" as an excuse to judge and talk down to her. but, they're not saints -- no one is. idk if that made sense, but yeah.

I watched you fall from grace, you were graceful / After all, it's a small world / You may not be an angel / But you are my girl

LIKE, UGH, YOU'RE SO RIGHT, THIS IS SO THEM!! I'M SO HAPPY AND FLATTERED YOU THOUGHT OF THEM WHEN YOU HEARD SUCH A ROMANTIC LYRIC :""")

again, it reminds me again of lee's relationship to religion in the fic. like, her being someone who's strayed from it, and still carrying some shame for that and the lies she continues to tell her mom. but, reader not seeing her as a sinful or wrong person because of that. reader still considering lee their girl, even if lee is an inherently flawed person. and lee feeling the same way for reader.

ANYWAYS GOD I KNOW LOVE THESE SONGS AND I LOVE YOU FOR THIS ASK THANK YOU SM FOR THINKING OF MY LITTLE STORY WHEN YOU HEARD THESE SONGS :""") AND FOR TELLING ME ABOUT IT OMGGGG I'M SO HAPPY YOU DID

[andredeyemii]

hii girll ur page is amazingg <3 how do u make manifestation fun?

girl manifestation is soo fun in general like you don't even need to do stuff babes (but you should cuz it's fun skdksk) the concept of just being unserious and carefree enough to choose how you want to think and accompany yourself so good, you can influence how you feel (like talking to someone and your mood gets better) damnn it's just fun.. but then you get you desires after!? soo fun.

H E R E I S H O W ( I D E A S ) : :

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : GRATITUDE : : instantly top one, it's life. I mean use anything else but this one is tradition and pricelessss

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : SELF-CONCEPT : : just because it's second doesn't mean it's "less important" it should be a repiblic act

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : RAMPAGES : : I recommend high frequency guru for this, she has many amazingg rampages they're life

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : VOID STATE : : it's veryy spiritual and instant, like it feels so sacred like it belongs in ancient civilization practices

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : SUCCESS STORIES : : turn off the stress news and listen to magical girls who manifested money outta nowhere this is what my account is forrr

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : SUBLIMINALS : : guys we are evolving as a species, please use this and cherish it rnn goiss

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : SATURATIONS : : these are my 2025 goals and this has the right to be included in beauty rituals cuzzz wow

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : SCRIPTING : : you can script habitually or you can just write about your day with a lot of exaggerated positivity

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : DRESS UP : : would your higher self think like you? no, that's why you do saturations. would my higher self dress like me? no, so I do shopping sprees.

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : SHADOW WORK : : it's free therapy and it releases blocks and past traumas so you can embody ur dream self

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : VISUALIZATION : : it's the basics of manifestation do it as much as you can

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : BLAH BLAH BLAH : : stop complaining and start talking about success stories and lifelong goals instead, it's technically a mini-mind saturation

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : WORK W PLACEBOS : : knowing if something is just a placebo effect doesn't take away the magic of the mind when it just proves it. lmao.

T E C H N I Q U E S : :

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : social media technique : : when you see something you want, think "omg I have that too!!", "me rn", "twins!!" cuz y'all that's so much inspirational than jealousy

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : lists / checkbox technique : : list your desires and affirm that you have all of them cuz it's fun and you will anyways

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : the water technique : : esp if you're planning on drinking 2 liters of water and being hygienic for 2025, keep saying that water makes u prettier

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : the love letter technique : : if manifesting an SP or simply someone loving you, write a love letter to urself as if you're them with visualizations. or write yourself a love letter from you and write love letters you won't send hehee

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : I would like more technique : : gratitude is key for this, but basically if you experience one small good thing or a small manifestation, affirm "I am so grateful for this, universe / god, I would like more".

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : for you and for me technique : : you have to block out limiting beliefs. if you hear someone say "your standards are too high, good men don't exist." you think to yourself "good men don't exist FOR YOU" and stay safe. update your affirmations to say "money is so easy FOR ME to have" also <3

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ : : play some music babes : : everytime you listen to music esp those dreamy love songs and those pretty lyrics, pretend they're all about you. feel beautiful.

G E N E R A L T I P S : :

!! some people will not find some ideas and techniques fun because they're coming from a place of attachment, scarcity desperation and doubt !!

🌺 : : but baby girlll manifestation is supposed to be magiccc. you have to feel like a little girl again and pick up the feeling of believing that you're just a pixie fairy or a pretty princess WHEN you were a child.

that's what ultimate detachment is!! children can experience stuff, they throw tantrums ofc honey but they don't get stuck in the experience. you'll cry over the past but them?? they'll cry over a broken crayon but once the crayons are gone, they're playing tea party next. SEE???

so yah, feel like a child. you should have no problems believing in anything because you're overconsuming. I see you gurl. stop thinking serious and hanging on. have fun y'all.

[roseforviolet]

Three recs from me (from a depressed girlblogger):

Albums:

Extraordinary Machine-Fiona Apple (whenever I see people talk about Fiona I never hear them bring up this album and I can’t even pick a favorite Fiona album but I just think this one is so underrated and soooooo fucking good like why are we sleeping on her?)

The Death of Summer & Other Promises -Etta Marcus (this album is so fucking good and Etta Marcus is so underrated and for some reason lowkey underground?? I literally don’t even know how because her music is all so beautiful!! If u like Lana del Rey and mitski you will love this album)

Blue Banisters - Lana Del Rey (like I said with Fiona it’s always the best albums that get the least recognition like how do people even not like this album or call it boring??? It’s so deeply personal and so beautiful and to me when I can hear the emotion in someone’s voice it makes the song better and hit harder.)

Songs:

Never is a promise-Fiona apple (“you say you understand you’ll never understand” plays in my head repeatedly BC NO ONE UNDERSTANDS and if you feel like that you NEED this song on ur playlist rn)

Silver spoon-Erin LeCount (another underground artist who doesn’t deserve to be underground tho I do think she’s gonna blow up soon her voice is literally ethereal and I’m not using that word lightly , this song is her newest release and I would say it’s her best like the chorus literally makes me ascend)  

Mechanical bull - Etta Marcus (I literally love this song so fucking much it’s more upbeat then regular Etta songs but something about it makes me feel like I’m swaying in a jazz bar sippin on my drink before making a bad decision )

Movies:

Sharing The Secret TW!! (One of the only movies about this topic that I think is actually realistic and doesn���t glamorize it at all, this movie actually made my cry and I don’t normally cry at movies lol. Just the perspective from her mom to its just wow. If you really want a good cry and a movie about mental illness this is it)

Tangerine (A queer classic but fr if u haven’t seen this movie you have to. It’s all filmed on like an iPhone 6 and it’s so good and funny. It’s like a rally story rather than a movie and I love movies like that. It feels so raw and authentic and the characters are so lovable!!)

Bones and All (I just love this movie even tho it’s traumatizing… it’s definitely not for everyone and if you’re easily grossed out I would not recommend watching it, even tho the ending is…I love it I love when movies end that way ngl. I love a sad movie)

Lana unreleased:

Ghetto baby (if you like Lana more upbeat dancy type songs this one is definitely for you, she starts the song off rapping and the chorus is so catchy, definitely underrated)

Junky pride (during her may jailer era I really love this song it describes ny situation almost perfectly and it makes me cry every time I listen to it)

Poetry in motion (I feel like this song is pretty known but it’s so real and so fucking sad and if u can’t tell I love sad media, it’s just sooo goood)

[loveinhawkins]

It’s barely hit 9pm when Eddie muffles a yawn against Steve’s shoulder and murmurs, “Steve.”

“Yeah?”

“My eyes keep closing.”

Steve smiles. Traces a soothing, circular path along Eddie’s scalp. “That’s okay.”

“No.”

“No?”

“Don’t wanna…” Eddie trails off for a moment; Steve feels his body relaxing further, slumping against him. “Don’t wanna miss it.”

Steve raises an eyebrow. The Golden Girls is playing in the background. “Uh, I mean. I could tape it?”

“No,” Eddie repeats, and his hand clumsily pats Steve’s cheek. “Don’t wanna miss it.”

Steve presses his lips to the warmth of Eddie’s palm. “Ah,” he says, gently teasing, “‘cause saying the same thing twice definitely makes sense.”

Eddie tsks. He prods with one finger at Steve’s jaw.

“Ow,” Steve laughs.

It doesn’t hurt at all.

“Talkin’ ‘bout you,” Eddie says, “Steve Harrington.”

And there’s the way he says Steve’s name, all rounded, like he’s savouring each syllable.

“There’s so much… so much goin’ on in there,” Eddie continues. Tap, tap, taps across Steve’s face. “You’d…” A sleepy huff of laughter. “You’d be a terrible spy.”

“Thanks,” Steve says dryly.

“Steeeve,” Eddie says, lilting into a song of his own creation. “Steve, Steve, Steve. S’a compliment.”

“Yeah, you’re a regular charmer.”

“I mean—” Eddie yawns again. “Mean it. Y’know, in… in school. Even if your… words were… your eyes, they… they’d always say s’actly what you were thinkin’.”

“In school?” Steve says. You noticed me? “Like when?”

It’s a blatant prompt, a wish for something more, but he can’t help it. Eddie smiles indulgently.

“Jus’ b’fore you graduated. First period. Asked you for a pen. Your mouth said sure an’ your eyes said forgetful prick.”

Steve laughs. “Fuck off, no they didn’t.”

He can feel Eddie’s giggles reverberating through him.

“Only kidding.” Eddie mimes like Robin does, indicating a tiny amount with his thumb and forefinger. “Half kidding.”

“Uh-huh.”

Eddie tilts his head from where it rests on Steve’s shoulder, eyes blinking languidly, as if he’s suddenly really putting the effort in to keep them open. As if this is something important.

“Y’know, in school I always tried to… notice things. People. Like, who ate lunch alone, or… Didn’t want anyone to, uh. Slip through the cracks.” Eddie sighs, a little melancholy. “Still missed stuff, though.”

Steve runs a hand through his hair. “You’re only human.”

You were trying. You cared. That’s enough.

Eddie gives a bittersweet hum. “Knew I missed stuff with you,” he says. “Makes sense now, but back then… Could never figure it out. Jus’ knew you were suddenly, like… at the end of a book or something, an’ I’d barely started the first page. And you’d… you’d look so…” Another sigh. “Not… not quite sad, but… like you knew something. Something you couldn’t… walk away from.” Steve’s nose suddenly stings.

“S’why I don’t wanna miss it,” Eddie says. “Don’t wanna waste a second.” He smiles again, eyelids heavy. “There’s whole stories in your eyes, Steve Harrington.”

For a moment, Steve can’t speak for the enormity of it: the fact that he’s just heard probably the most romantic thing in the world, and it’s about him.

For a moment, it makes him brave.

“You’re not gonna miss anything if you dream about me.”

Eddie laughs. “Wow,” he says, drawn out, and the end of it turns into a yawn, then a drowsy sigh. His eyelids droop… flicker… close. “Presumptuous and corny.”

But Steve can hear the fondness in it—like maybe Eddie thinks he’s heard the most romantic thing, too.

“Yeah,” he agrees. Then, softer, “Can’t help what you turn me into.”

“Hmm?” Eddie mumbles, like he’s trying his best, but the thread of the conversation is still running away from him, getting lost to his dreams.

“Shh,” Steve says. He shifts until he’s lying on his back, gently guides Eddie down with him. “G’night.”

He feels Eddie breathing against his shoulder.

“Night,” Eddie whispers. “Night, night, night…”

Steve smiles; Eddie repeats stuff when he’s drifting off, has even had whole circular conversations with Dustin about whatever movie they happen to be watching.

“G’night,” Steve says again, and he almost says something more. Doesn’t—because Eddie’s breaths are truly heavy with sleep now.

Maybe he could already read it in Steve’s eyes. Maybe, just maybe, he’ll dream about it until Steve can say it for real.

[xo-myloves]

@nenynra -Duff being so lovey dovey with the reader, it sounds embarassing, but he does it 'cause reader was having a bad day:)

𝕊𝕌𝕄𝕄𝔸ℝ𝕐: 𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊 𝚏𝚞𝚌𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚛𝚒𝚋𝚕𝚎 𝚍𝚊𝚢—𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚐𝚘𝚎𝚜 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚍𝚘 𝚒𝚜 𝚌𝚛𝚢 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚙𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠. 𝙳𝚞𝚏𝚏 𝚜𝚎𝚎𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚘𝚍 𝚊𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚘𝚗 𝚊𝚜 𝚑𝚎 𝚠𝚊𝚕𝚔𝚜 𝚒𝚗, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚑𝚎 𝚍𝚘𝚎𝚜𝚗’𝚝 𝚊𝚜���� 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚊𝚕𝚔—𝚑𝚎 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚙𝚞𝚕𝚕𝚜 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚊𝚛𝚖𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚕𝚎𝚝𝚜 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚏𝚒𝚐𝚞𝚛𝚎 𝚒𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎. 𝙰𝚏𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚊 𝚠𝚑𝚒𝚕𝚎, 𝚑𝚎 𝚝𝚎𝚕𝚕𝚜 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚊 𝚛𝚒𝚍𝚒𝚌𝚞𝚕𝚘𝚞𝚜 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝙶𝚞𝚗𝚜 𝙽’ 𝚁𝚘𝚜𝚎𝚜’ 𝚍𝚞𝚖𝚋𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚖𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜, 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚜𝚗𝚘𝚛𝚝 𝚊 𝚕𝚊𝚞𝚐𝚑 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚛𝚜𝚝 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚍𝚊𝚢.

༞༞༞༞༞༞༞༞𝚂𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚙 𝚍𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚖𝚊𝚗༞༞༞༞༞༞༞༞

You weren’t having a bad day.

You were having a fucking awful day.

The kind of day where everything went wrong in ways you didn’t even think were possible. Spilled coffee, missed calls, that weird tension in your chest that wouldn’t go away no matter how many deep breaths you took. The kind of day where, by the time you made it home, you weren’t even sure if you were angry or just tired of being a person.

You were still sitting on the couch, curled up in your hoodie, staring at the wall when Duff walked in.

He took one look at you and sighed. “Shit, babe. That bad?”

You didn’t even answer—just let out a low, tired groan and let your head drop back against the cushions.

Duff smirked. “That bad, huh?”

You shot him a half-hearted glare. “Don’t mock me. I’ll cry.”

His smirk softened into something else. Something quieter. “Yeah?”

You nodded miserably. “Yeah.”

He didn’t say anything after that—just kicked off his boots and plopped down on the couch beside you. And, because Duff wasn’t the type to let you sit in your misery alone, he immediately stretched his arm over the back of the couch and tugged you into his side.

“C’mere.”

You let yourself fall against him, head resting on his shoulder, his warmth seeping into your skin. He smelled like leather and the faintest trace of cigarette smoke—comforting in a way you didn’t have words for.

For a while, neither of you spoke. The silence wasn’t heavy, wasn’t awkward—it was just there, settling between you like an old song you both knew the words to.

After a while, Duff exhaled, rubbing slow circles into your back. “Wanna tell me what’s up?”

You shrugged against him. “Not really.”

“That bad?”

You nodded.

He was quiet for a second, then: “Wanna hear a story?”

You huffed out a small, tired laugh. “Is this gonna be some deep, profound Duff-ism?”

“Nah,” he murmured, grinning. “Just a stupid story.”

You sighed, closing your eyes. “Go for it.”

Duff adjusted slightly, getting comfortable, his fingers still tracing absentminded patterns against your arm. “Alright. So, 1987. We’re on tour, right? And everything’s fucking chaos. Like, pure shitshow levels of chaos. Izzy’s missing, Slash is already drunk, Axl’s threatening to kill someone—I don’t even remember who, just someone.”

You snorted. “So, a normal day?”

“Basically.” Duff chuckled, shaking his head. “Anyway, I’m having the worst fucking day. Just—hungover, exhausted, done with everyone’s bullshit. And then, right before we go on stage, I trip over my own fucking bass cable and wipe out in front of like, ten people.”

“Oh my God.”

“No, wait, it gets worse,” he groaned, clearly enjoying your reaction. “So, I hit the ground hard. Like, fully ate shit. And I swear to God, right as I’m lying there, questioning all my life choices, fucking Axl leans over me and goes, ‘Wow. That’s embarrassing.’”

You were full-on laughing now, covering your face with your hands. “No way.”

“I wish I was making that up.” Duff grinned, pulling your hands away so he could see your face. “Anyway, my point is—some days just fucking suck. And sometimes, all you can do is eat shit and get back up.”

You rolled your eyes, but you were still smiling. “So, the lesson here is…?”

“The lesson,” Duff murmured, leaning down so his lips brushed your forehead, “is that even on the worst days, you’re still my girl. And that means I’m not going anywhere.”

Your chest tightened. Not in the heavy, miserable way it had all day—but in the warm, stupid, I love this man so much it’s annoying kind of way.

“You’re lucky you’re cute,” you muttered.

Duff grinned. “I know.”

And for the first time all day, you felt okay.

[lilbardrhi]

My Favorite Story

Pairing: König x Reader/You CW: Nada~ this is just Christmas cuteness! Prepare for fluff! (Ok it's... kinda sad. At first. But for a very important reason. I PROMISE-) Author's Note: Merry Christmas and happy holidays, @machveil! Thank you so much for your Daily König doodles! They're the highlight of my day, everyday <3

He can still hear their laughter. The laughter of everyone who made fun of how he looks. Throughout his entire childhood, that's all they would do - laugh at how he looks. Children can be so cruel. But that's why Rudolph would always be König's favorite. Rudolph was laughed at, made fun of - hell, the poor deer was even shunned. König couldn't possibly relate more to any character.

That's why, with a copy in hand, König intends on talking to the author/illustrator of a version of his favorite Christmas story. He will walk up to her and tell her thank you for giving him a beam of light in his life again and ask for her to sign the book.

He will.

When the line dies down.

During tomorrow's market.

At this point, the poor man is shaking with nervousness as he tries to convince himself to just walk up to her and ask her-

"Hey there! Doing ok? I see you have a copy of my book," she calls to him with a warm smile.

Oh... wow, she's pretty.

König gives her a quick nod of the head. He was going to speak, but he's not sure he remembers how to right now. Instead he's standing there with a copy of her book clutched tightly to his chest and wishing that he'd either find his voice or that the ground would open up beaneath him and swallow him quickly.

Neither seem likely at the moment.

"Well, come on over!" She waves him closer and he obliges, stopping just to the side of her booth. "I mean in here, silly."

She giggled.

König might melt.

Yet he listens, hunching over to step into her booth.

"I saw you at the charity event."

He nods again, shaking even more now that he's so close to her.

"Would you like me to sign it? It's ok. I don't mind."

Gott, she's so sweet. She saw him at the chairty event that was intended for people to have her book signed which means she knew he didn't approach for a signature there. Now she's just... offering to sign it for him? How could he say no?

"Bist du sicher?" he manages to push out.

The author's smile turns a bit nervous.

"Ah... Ja natürlich. Es ist kein problem."

König can't help the little smile that creeps onto his half-masked face. Her pronunciation is a bit... wonky, but he thinks it's cute. So he nods and - shakily - hands her the book.

She seems relieved as he nods and hands her the book. Then she pulls a metallic silver Sharpie from her coat pocket.

"Who should- oh. Wem... soll ich das mitteilen?"

As cute as he finds it when she speaks German, he doesn't want to make her anymore uncomfortable than he feels he already has.

"It is alright," he says softly. "I speak English. But, um... me. König."

Hearing him speak English seems to make her shoulders relax a bit and her warm smile returns, reaching her eyes again.

"Alrighty!"

Without another word she skillfully flips open the book and uncaps her Sharpie with her teeth. As she writes, she starts to hum Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Hearing her humming the song has König relaxing too.

She suddenly scribbles something quickly in the book - her actual signature, he assumes - then passes the book back to him.

"It was nice to meet you, King. See you around the market."

His eyebrows shoot up in surprise over her translating his name. König doesn't have time to respond as she's already back to the line of fans in front of her booth. Not wanting to hover, he silently steps out of her booth and begins walking away.

When he returns home, he opens his book to see her signature- and a message?

"I hope Rudoloph brings you the comfort he always did for me. Happy holidays, König~"

Below her signature is what König can only assume is her phone number. Without hesitation, he sends her a quick thank you text and apoligizes for being so odd at the market.

You're so welcome! I wasn't sure you'd actually text me lol but... odd? I figured you were just nervous - I have social anxiety and your mannerisms felt familiar so I did my best to make things easier on us both :)

König can't help the butterflies in his stomach or the way his heart seemed to flutter at her quick response. And maybe even the fact that she actually responded.

Maybe this will be a merry Christmas season after all.

Translations (per Google Translate so I apologize if it's inaccurate!): Gott - God Bist du sicher? - Are you sure? Ja natürlich. Es ist kein Problem. - Yes, of course. It is no problem. Wem soll ich das mitteilen? - Who should I make this out to?

CoD Christmas (Meet) Cuties Masterlist

[dtmsrpfcringe]

We don't hate women. We hate women who are abusive towards their partners.

Michael and David both deserve better and just because you want to buy into what PR and social media tells you, you don't have to attack other people for being upset over actors they care about possibly not being happy.

David wouldn't leave Georgia, they are married and have children, so he feels responsible. He always puts other people before himself. And Anna played it well with the babies, as harsh as it sounds. Michael would feel terrible leaving the girls. People staying in relationships doesn't prove you right, sadly. It's no sign of anything other than commitment and commitment doesn't always come from a place of love.

By saying that Michael and David shippers want to see them unhappy in their relationship, you show that you're missing the point. The whole point of shipping them is wanting them to be happy. You just want to be hateful towards people who don't suppprt your narrative, it seems.

GOD I WISH TUMBLR WOULD LET ME ADD TEXTS BEFORE ASKS SO I COULD SAY “Warning: you’re about to hear one of the most moronic takes I have ever heard” *insert gif of amanojaku from ghost stories here* okay let’s…we have to break this down it’s too much for me to just laugh at and go “wow this is dumb as hell”

“We don’t hate women, we just make up stuff so we can justify hating them”- you. where’s…where’s any shred of proof that either women are even a little bit abusive? I mean don’t you think we would have seen some of that by now? And no, enty lawyer doesn’t count as proof and neither does random screenshots of a bit of text with zero context. Also neither do jokes online with your partner when they’re okay with it (and make the same jokes quite literally all the time) and nobody sees a problem with it except the people that conveniently hate these women.

2. “Michael and David both deserve better” yes I’m sure the rich white middle aged men who are two of the most popular actors in their countries who have girlfriends/wives and kids who love and adore them are surely hurting because some weirdo on tumblr says it.

3. Hate to tell you this but married people with children divorce all the time. It’s not like if they divorce he is going to suddenly vanish in a puff of smoke babe.

4. Even if that’s true, your theory of him only staying out of responsibility is bullshit. Someone who stays for the kids isn’t going to dip their wife into a kiss on the red carpet and look at her like a hozier song sounds. If there’s any event or interview where he can find a way to praise Georgia, he does it. He always talks about her. After events they’ve been seen kissing deeply and walking arm in arm honeymoon style.

5. as for Anna and Michael, (David and Georgia too but they seem more open to pda) they don’t owe you pda. Michael has been more than adamant about defending his girlfriend on twitter and good for him about it.

6. if you guys were genuinely concerned with Michael and David’s impending relationship crashes, why is it always tied to their love for one another? The only people who see This rampant “abuse and unhappiness” is this group of people who believe David and Michael are actually in love and want to elope together. Nobody else. Not even other Sheenant shippers. You guys literally just hate them, I mean Invisibleicewands has been talking shit on Anna since she posted her first photo with Michael back in 2019 and hasn’t stopped.

7. “And Anna played it well with the babies, as harsh as it sounds.” seriously what the absolute crap is this supposed to mean my dude? I’ve gotta be honest….you know how smex works right? Michael could absolutely choose to use protection!!! Why is it on her? Not on him. He’s had kids before I think he knows that a stork doesn’t bring the baby. Holy hell you people make my eyes hurt

8. (finally) funny you should bring up narratives, you know considering you’re part of the group that thinks any affection towards anybody else that isn’t them is PR (thinking of the Joseph Fiennes hug fiasco) that lied about Georgia and Anna being abusive, that has tried time and time again and moved the goalpost, that fabricates evidence and tries to send death threats to people who speak out, and then lie about it, that your group is the one who can’t handle women working together and have to call everything PR. The same group that ignores the fact that Anna and Georgia are friends, to talk grave shit on them. Newsflash sweetheart, we aren’t the ones pushing the narrative here. You only want to see David and Michael happy as long as it aligns with your delusion. Have the day you deserve.

anyways, I think this is going to be my pinned post. Mostly because I want this to be embarrassing if you ever try to come back here and lie on Betty whites internet again, but also because I think this addresses so many tin hat talking points at once. Just because we love aziraphale and crowley doesn't mean we get the right to insert ourselves into their personal lives, you wouldn't want someone else praying for your relationship to fail.

[steddieas-shegoes]

Steve Harrington having a stutter? maybe Eddie and Steve are in an interview after revealing their relationship to the public (kinda ties with ur rockstar eddie drabbles?) and people make fun of his stutter. Hes always had it, he just doesn't talk in public so its a surprise to everyone that he has a stutter and that they actually get to hear his voice

So I know the request said he always had the stutter, but I wanted to do something head trauma related for this because Eddie is gonna get a little overprotective and says some stuff about his very amazing husband to be. I've never written a character having a stutter before, so I hopefully made it realistic. In my head, he struggled with some hard consonants and 'th', 'ch', and 'sh' sounds. - Mickala ❤️

------------------------------------------------------

“Everyone please give your warmest welcome to Eddie Munson and Steve Harrington!”

They walked onto the stage with smiles and waves, hands clasped between them as they walked to the couch they’d be sitting on for their interview.

They chose this talk show host, Hannah, because she wasn’t pushy, asked heartfelt questions, and wanted to get the genuine stories out there.

Steve had been nervous to be on any talk show, so he was the one who made the decision to be on this one and Eddie was happy to oblige.

Her viewers may not have been his usual crowd, but if it made Steve more comfortable, he didn’t really care.

“Wow, that was a warm welcome!” Eddie exclaimed.

He wanted to keep it light; Steve’s hand in his was sweaty and shaking, and he knew Hannah could see his nerves.

“I think everyone is just so excited to have you here! You’re not our usual guest, I’ll be honest, so you’re shaking things up for all of us.” She smiled before looking at Steve. “Now, let’s get the elephant in the room out of the way first. Steve, that ring on your finger sure is a beauty!”

He glanced down at it for a moment, smiling to himself.

Eddie proposed a month ago, on their week-long getaway to Greece, and as much as they tried to hide it, it was on the cover of every tabloid and online news article within 24 hours.

They hadn’t even come out officially yet.

It caused Steve to panic, and then Eddie panicked, and then they both decided to take control of their own narrative and do this interview.

“Th-thank you,” Steve replied. “Eddie did g-good, didn’t he?”

Steve’s stutter was barely noticeable when they were in a comfortable environment, especially since they’d been together for so long. But when they were in a stressful situation, or around new people, or both, it became more obvious.

Steve had already spoken to Hannah about it beforehand, said he wouldn’t mind talking about it as long as it wasn’t the focus of the interview. She agreed and said that she would follow his lead on everything, and Eddie warned her he wouldn’t hesitate to walk them both off the stage if Steve got uncomfortable.

“He did great! Honestly, I’ll have to get you to show my husband how to pick an engagement ring. Bless his heart, he tried. Luckily, we married for love and not his ability to know what I want in a ring.”

The audience laughed, and Steve couldn’t help letting out a small giggle.

“Soooo…tell us how he did it!” Hannah continued, eyes glimmering under the stage lights.

“Um.” Steve took in a shaky breath. “We were at a p-priv-vate d-dinner on the beach-ch.” Eddie squeezed his hand once, smiling over at him as he let him lead. “He s-sang me a s-song and th-then proposed.”

“How romantic,” Hannah rested her head in her hands and sighed. “Everyone in the audience is going to show this to their significant others for them to take notes, I’m sure.”

“He left out the part where I also bought him the fancy wine he wanted only for it to be the worst thing we’ve ever tasted and we ended up giving it to a couple further down the beach,” Eddie added, playfully nudging Steve’s shoulder.

“Yeah, w-well,” Steve shrugged, blushing profusely.

“What a letdown! Hopefully the other couple liked it,” Hannah laughed.

“They didn’t complain, but honestly we didn’t stick around for too long. We were freshly engaged and had much better things to be doing,” Eddie winked at the audience.

“Oh, I bet you did!” Hannah smiled before getting more serious. “So you’ve been together for a while?”

“We were friends when we were really young, and it grew into more when Steve was supporting me and my band in the local bar scene. We’ve dated for almost four years now.”

“Awww. And you’ll be getting married pretty soon, right?” Hannah asked.

“Yes, we d-decided on next March-ch,” Steve added. “Spring is when w-we met-t.”

“Lovely! I’m sure the wedding will be quite the party.”

“We’re keeping it pretty small, just family and our circle of friends. My bandmates will be there. Just us back at home with the people who love us,” Eddie smiled.

“I think that sounds wonderful.” Hannah clapped her hands. “So, Eddie, with all this excitement in your personal life, what’s it look like for the band?”

“I’ll be on tour with them for August and September, and then we’ll be working hard on recording the next album in October and November so we can have it out next year. I won’t be doing anything else until after the wedding, though. I promised Stevie I’d help him plan everything.”

The crowd cheered, and Steve spoke up.

“He also p-promised t-to visit the loc-cation with me in Novemb-ber so we’ll see,” Steve teased, seeming to relax quite a bit more.

The interview carried on, mostly focusing on Eddie’s band and some more casual talk of the wedding and future plans.

Steve never completely relaxed, but he seemed much more at ease as Hannah focused more on Eddie for a few minutes, smiling at Steve when he decided to add something.

“Alright, that’s all the time we have boys! It was lovely to have you and we’re so looking forward to your future together!”

The audience cheered, the boys waved goodbye, and they walked back to the green room to grab some water before going back to their hotel.

Eddie stopped Steve in the hall, ignoring the people passing by, and pulled Steve against him.

“I’m so proud of you, sweetheart,” he whispered against his lips before pressing a soft kiss there. “You’re amazing.”

“Eds, st-stop,” Steve blushed.

“Nope, wanna tell you all the time. You’re incredible.”

“F-fine.”

—--------------------

Steve is a lovely person, and I will not tolerate hate comments on anything related to the interview I did with him and Eddie. My team always does the best with reporting hate comments, so keep that in mind before posting something you may regret later. Any Eddie Munson fan should know that Eddie wouldn’t accept this disgusting behavior towards his fiance.

Steve could feel tears welling in his eyes as he read Hannah’s lovely public comment about some of the hate she’d been receiving in regards to their interview.

One comment in particular had hurt to see: a fan claiming that Eddie just felt bad for him and didn’t want to break up with him because Steve would run to the press with negative stories about him.

Eddie was still asleep, hadn’t seen most of what was being posted since the interview aired first thing that morning, but Steve did.

He liked Hannah’s statement and posted it to his Instagram story with a heart emoji.

He went through some responses from Eddie’s bandmates and liked them, too.

Steve is probably the best thing that’s happened to all of us, so any “fan” of ours who doesn’t see how awesome he is, consider yourself uninvited to any show. Gareth posted.

You guys better hope Eddie doesn’t hop on here and see all this or he’ll end up hunting you for sport. Jeff joked, though Steve knew that he may be more right than not.

Imagine being so jealous of someone that you decide to make fun of the one thing they’re self-conscious about. Couldn’t be me. Grant posted on all his social media profiles.

Then he saw Robin’s post and his heart stopped for a moment.

My best friend is the bravest person I know. He only has a stutter because he risked his life to protect me. If head trauma is a joke to you, then I hope you find new material soon. When Eddie sees this, he’s gonna lose his shit.

Steve let out a mix of a sob and a laugh, startling Eddie awake.

“What is it, sweetheart? What’s wrong?” he asked as he sat up in their bed.

“I g-guess p-people aren’t a b-big fan of me,” he said as he held his phone out towards Eddie to show him what was going on.

Eddie’s face flushed red with anger before he calmly handed Steve his phone back.

“Eds?”

Eddie silently reached for his own phone and pulled up his notes app.

Steve watched him type furiously for a few minutes, then screenshot a couple of times, and open Instagram.

“Eds…it’s fine. Not w-worth it.”

But it was too late, and Steve’s phone went off with a notification that he’d been tagged in Eddie’s post.

It was a series of pictures, the first being a picture taken of them shortly after Steve’s worst head injury, when he barely could speak at all.

The next few images were the screenshots from Eddie’s phone.

I can’t believe I have to say this, but here goes. Steve Harrington, soon-to-be Munson, is the best person I know. I am lucky to be able to wake up next to him, to call him mine, to be his. He is incredibly brave, incredibly loving, and much too forgiving. He will be much nicer than I will. He is not defined by his stutter, but it is a part of his life, and it does impact him much more than he should ever have to worry about. But that picture you just saw? That was a man who could barely even say my name. I thought I would never hear him even say my name again. I’ve seen comments making fun of how he talks, how long it takes him to say some things, his intelligence. And I won’t tolerate it. If you have anything negative to say about him, unfollow me before I block you myself. Fame means absolutely nothing to me compared to this man, and I won’t let him suffer through the bullying just so I can make some fucking music. See yourself out or see us be happy. Up to you.

The last image was a picture of them the night before, cozy in their bed, Steve looking into the camera while Eddie looked at him, so much love passing from him it was almost a physical presence.

“Eds-” Steve started.

“I love you. I won’t let anyone let you think for a second that I don’t,” Eddie said fiercely.

“I know. I l-love you, t-too.”

They both shut off their phones for the rest of the day, didn’t care much for anything outside of their bed.

Steve called Hannah to thank her for everything the next day, and she was grateful to hear from him. He explained that he wouldn’t be doing any more interviews, but was glad he’d had a positive experience with her.

“Do you think Eddie will come back to the show someday to talk about you?” she asked.

“I th-think you’ll reg-gret asking him back. He won’t sh-shut up about me,” Steve smirked to himself.

“He shouldn’t. You’re both so lucky to have each other.”

“Yeah. W-we are.”

[soloroomies]

lifemate (Chapter 3/ Sakusa x f!reader)

summary: two years have passed, are you both still up for it? word count. 2.3k cw. marriage pact au a/n. the intro of the story turns out to be quite long... but, here it goes! I'm happy I have a lot of spare time now. So, I think the update for this story will be pretty quick (for now)! Masterlist

A few days later, you tell your predicament to your best friend from college, Tami. She lives in a different city now, so you send her a few messages and call her. She laughs and gives you a piece of her mind regarding the idea.

“That’s actually kinda crazy… Like, wow. I know you’re creative and all, but I didn’t expect you to do something like this. This is another level,” she continues to laugh loudly. You roll your eyes at this, feeling a mix of embarrassment and amusement.

“Oh no, wait. I can actually see you doing this type of thing,” she adds, still chuckling.

“Hey, please help a friend here. Does it really sound that bad?!” you plead, hoping for some serious advice.

“Do you want me to be honest?” she asks, her tone suddenly serious.

“Of course!”

“In all my life knowing you and hearing your love life stories, I never see you wanting to pursue someone. Like, be committed, y’know?”

You pause to think for a second. That’s true. She’s right.

“Errr, yeah, I think. But, I would want to be committed if that person makes me want to! It’s just I never found the one that makes me want to. You get what I mean?” you explain, feeling a bit defensive but also reflective.

“But, how would you know? Like, what’s your standard? What kind of person makes you want to do that?” Tami presses, her curiosity genuine.

You’re stunned. Fuck. You don’t really know. Isn’t it just like a gut feeling or something? Or someone who makes you feel butterflies in your stomach? Or is it someone who makes you feel secure? You don’t really know. Tami senses your hesitancy and sighs.

“See. You don’t know it yourself,” she says, her voice softening.

“I’m no psychologist or something, but I know you. I know you have it in yourself to love someone deeply. But, you also have some standards that you set for yourself. It’s not weird at all,” she reassures you.

“It’s tricky. But, I think maybe that’s what makes you struggle a bit to start intimacy with someone.”

You get every word she says and, damn, she really knows you so well. Her insights are like a mirror reflecting your innermost thoughts.

“Not everyone will have the same relationship journey, y’know? Not everyone will feel or experience romantic love. But, in no way am I trying to tell you that you will not experience that,” she continues, her tone both comforting and encouraging.

You understand what she means. You sometimes expect yourself to experience the kind of love that movies, songs, and pop culture depict. Maybe some people do experience that, but not everyone’s reality is the same.

“I do think that the marriage stuff is beneficial though for you. But, how about your need for intimacy? Will you get it from him, from Kiyoomi?” she asks, her voice tinged with concern.

“I don’t know. But, I care about him,” you reply honestly.

“That’s good.” Then, she goes silent. Seems like she’s thinking. You’re thinking, too. What kind of arrangement will this marriage be? Will this be the kind of open marriage, with both of you can be with anyone? That’s something that you’ll need to further discuss with Kiyoomi. Some rules and boundaries need to be set. Tami seems to have the same thoughts as you as she speaks up about it a moment later.

“On the other hand, though. Sakusa is hot as fuck,” she says, breaking the serious tone with a playful remark.

You laugh loudly, the sudden shift catching you off guard.

“What, you don’t think so? I honestly am surprised with you. You always send me TikTok thirst traps of some random men. I know you know fine men when you see one. And, urgh, your friend is so fine too, girl! Are you blind or something?!”

“Of course, I find him handsome, too! That’s why I’m telling you that I don’t want to trap him with me when he can be with any majestic woman he likes! Plus, it’s weird to think your friend is hot all the time,” you roll your eyes, feeling a bit defensive again.

“I’ll say this sincerely. You and him look good together. That’s it,” she states firmly.

You try to picture you and Kiyoomi together, feeling a strange mix of curiosity and warmth.

“If this plan of you and him happens, he’ll be your husband!” she exclaims, emphasizing the word "husband" with a teasing tone.

You try to picture you and Kiyoomi doing some domestic stuff together and find yourself blushing. What?!

“S—shut up!!” you stutter, feeling flustered.

Tami laughs hearing you stutter, enjoying the reaction she’s elicited.

“Don’t even think about not consummating your marriage! I know you’re not that stupid!” she adds, her voice dripping with playful mischief.

You shush her again, feeling embarrassed and overwhelmed by the thought. You really don’t want to think of Kiyoomi that way. It feels wrong.

You end your call with your best friend, concluding that you better not rely fully on the pact you made with Kiyoomi. You should still live your day like usual and try to find your potential love interest as usual. 

And you did. You go about your days as usual, juggling work, meeting with friends, and attending your monthly meet-ups with Komori and Kiyoomi. Nothing is brought up about the pact with Kiyoomi. Even though it occasionally comes to mind unexpectedly. Life is hectic as always, but you still find time to go on a few dates with new people, either introduced by friends, colleagues from work, or even your parents. Without realizing it, two years have passed.

This New Year's, you spend it at your family home, reconnecting with your parents and some of your extended family. You also reunite with some friends, including Tami, who decides to visit your city. After a few days, you return to your apartment on Friday night, deciding to rest before returning to work on Monday.

That is until you receive a message from Komori in your group chat with him and Sakusa. He invites you and Sakusa to a party at his house on Saturday night. After pondering for a bit, you decide it will be a great way to end your holiday. You miss them, and a party sounds fun. You reply to the chat, confirming you'll come. Minutes later, you see that Sakusa has also replied that he will be there. Komori's parties often include volleyball pro athletes, tall men with their muscular bodies, which is always a plus. You laugh to yourself, mentally slapping yourself for the thought.

Suddenly, upon seeing Sakusa's message in the group chat, you remember something very important that you had forgotten. Shit, shit! You check your calendar. Has it really been two years? Damn, this is the year. You sit in stunned silence for a few minutes. Does Sakusa even remember? Has he gotten himself a girlfriend yet? You try to recall your meet-ups with him and Komori. You remember Komori teasing him about some girls a few times, but there were no clear signs that he was in a relationship. Shit. It would be weird to bring it up. You might look desperate or something. And why did you suddenly remember this now?! Things were fine when you didn’t.

You take a few deep breaths to calm yourself. You’re a grown woman, dammit! You decide not to bring it up unless Sakusa does. You want to see how serious he is about this. If he’s serious, he’ll remember, right? Are you being immature right now? Hopefully not! Why do you feel this way though? It’s just Kiyoomi. You huff, frustrated with yourself. Whatever. You’ll just see how the night goes tomorrow.

The night of the party finally arrives. You dress casually for the occasion, opting for light blue jeans and a white, fluffy sweater in case the night gets colder. After doing your makeup and hair, you quickly order an online taxi and head to Komori’s house.

You arrive ten minutes after the designated time for the party, and some people are already there. You see some of Komori’s friends from the EJP Raijin team and Sakusa’s MSBY team. Before you can get anywhere, Komori greets you cheerfully. Beside him is Mia, Komori’s wife, who offers you a warm smile and invites you to the snacks corner.

You make light conversation with Mia, asking about the food she made and complimenting her on how delicious it tastes. You also meet some other wives and girlfriends of the athletes. After a few minutes, you find yourself in a fun conversation with a woman you just met, who turns out to be Miya Atsumu’s girlfriend. You recall Atsumu as Sakusa’s teammate in MSBY. Discovering that you both work in tech startups, you bond over shared work ethics and struggles. After a while, you excuse yourself to the bathroom, feeling a bit lightheaded from the beer you consumed. You’re not great with alcohol but didn't realize how much you were drinking while chatting.

When you return to the main room, you hear Komori exclaim, "There you are!" with Sakusa standing beside him. You recall how Sakusa used to be extremely germaphobic, rarely taking his mask off in any place. You respect him but often show him some videos and journals about how human’s immune systems work. You’re sure some people show those kinds of things to him, too. As a result, now, he has managed to tone down his fear a bit and only wears a mask strictly in public places or outside buildings. Sakusa wears a plain black shirt tucked into black trousers. This is one of those moments that makes you painfully aware of how attractive he is, and he even seems so effortless about it.

You quickly dismiss your thoughts and greet them, “Hey!" Then you turn your head to Sakusa and ask, "When did you arrive?”

“Not too long ago,” he replies.

Komori chimes in, “I saw you earlier talking with ‘Tsumu’s girlfriend!”

You nod happily.

Komori asks, “Anyway, how was your New Year holiday?”

You start chatting about your holiday until someone exclaims, “Hey, hey, hey!” Sakusa rolls his eyes. It’s Bokuto Kōtarō, his teammate. He pats Sakusa’s shoulder a few times, which doesn’t faze him, looking fed up with Bokuto's antics. Bokuto then greets Komori and you, recalling you as Sakusa’s bestie.

As it nears midnight, you decide to head home. You excuse yourself from the people you’ve been talking with and tell Komori you're leaving. You look for Sakusa but can’t find him. Just as you're about to order an online taxi, a hand pats your shoulder. It’s Sakusa.

“Oh, hey! I was looking for you!” you say, startled.

“Let me drive you home,” he offers. “I brought my car, and it’s already late.”

You ponder for a bit but then accept his offer. 

Once you’re settled in the seat, he offers to connect your phone to his car's Bluetooth to play some music. You agree enthusiastically, always excited to recommend songs to him. He knows you're always excited too, and he often enjoys your recommendations, playing them frequently himself.

The drive is quiet but relaxing. Suddenly, he speaks up, “Do you remember our pact?”

You cough, surprised. You’re always like this, getting distracted and forgetting important things. Weren’t you stressed about this yesterday? You scold yourself mentally. Then, you nod and respond, “Yeah. I actually just remembered about it yesterday. I’m surprised you remember, Omi.” You laugh.

“Did you forget that I put it in the calendar?” he asks, his tone neutral.

You try to recall the memory of the day you made the pact with Sakusa. Ah! He did set a reminder for the pact on New Year’s Day. You giggle, feeling a mix of amusement and embarrassment.

“How— I mean, like, are you with anyone right now?” you ask tentatively, your voice betraying a hint of nervousness.

“No. Are you?” he replies, his gaze steady and calm.

You shake your head. “No.”

“Are you still up for it? The pact we made?” he asks, his voice steady but with a touch of curiosity.

You’re silent for a moment, pondering. You realize, if anything, you’re more ready than the last time you talked about this with him. The last two years have made it clear how tiring it is to build a relationship with someone. Work remains the same, and you're still juggling side jobs to make ends meet and send some money to your parents. The prodding from your parents has become more apparent too, suggesting dates with the sons of their acquaintances. You've tried to have a date with some of them. But nothing has gone beyond.

So you answer him, “I think I’m up for it. You?”

“Me too,” he says, giving you a quick glance that holds a mix of seriousness and reassurance.

You realize you’ve arrived at your apartment. “I think we need to talk about a lot of stuff regarding this. Do you want to talk about it? Like, tomorrow... maybe?” you suggest, trying to sound composed despite the whirlwind of thoughts in your mind.

“I agree. I’ll pick you up tomorrow,” he replies, his voice steady.

“Okay. Is 9 am okay with you? Or do you have practice?” you ask, wanting to make sure he’s not inconvenienced.

“No, I don’t and 9 am is okay,” he confirms.

With that, you get out of his car. You walk inside your apartment building, realizing that Sakusa is still on the driveway, looking at you. So, you smile and wave at him. As you fold your arms and tap your foot in the elevator, you can’t help but feel a bit antsy. You're really doing this. The anticipation and uncertainty swirl inside you, but there's also a sense of… excitement? You’re about to take a significant step, and the reality of it starts to sink in.

[msklassickilla]

Delirious | J. Uso|R. Reigns One

Summary: When Titania buys an old typewriter from a closing thrift store, she thinks it’s just a vintage gem—until the words she types start coming true. However, the typewriter doesn’t just bring fantasies to life—it twists them. Giving Titania way more than she bargained for.

Pairing: Titania Marshall (Black OC) x Jey Uso x Roman Reigns

Author’s Note: This story is another AU thing. So, it might align, or it might not. I will try my best to keep it current enough. Nonetheless, it’s mash up of a few things: That one episode of Goosebumps. That one episode of the Twilight Zone. And that movie by the same title, Delirious featuring John Candy. I’ma make it work. Plus, I like mystical spooky shit with a bit of Jerry Springer type mess.

Warning(s): Will be updated each chapter. None for this.

Disclaimer: This work of art is fictional in nature including the original characters created by me. I do not own any of the existing characters or lyrics from songs referenced in this story (if any). All rights belong to their respective owners with the exception of my original characters. This work is purely for entertainment purposes and is not intended to cause harm.

One

The bell above the door let out a hollow chime as Titania stepped into the thrift store, shaking off the drizzle from her jacket. The air inside smelled faintly of old books, wood polish, and something vaguely metallic. She glanced around, taking in the cluttered aisles crammed with mismatched furniture, vintage knick-knacks, and dusty stacks of records. A handwritten sign taped to the counter read, “CLOSING FOR GOOD: EVERYTHING MUST GO!” in uneven black marker.

Titania wasn’t here for anything in particular. She’d wandered in out of curiosity after spotting the sign while driving home. Something about the words closing for good always tugged at her—like it was her duty to give a dying shop one last sale.

Her sneakers squeaked softly against the scuffed linoleum floor as she moved through the aisles. Worn lampshades leaned at odd angles, mismatched chairs huddled together like forgotten party guests, and a collection of porcelain cats stared at her from a shelf with chipped paint and blank eyes. It was the kind of place that felt haunted, not by ghosts, but by the lives of the people who had once owned these items.

Titania turned a corner and froze. There, on a small table near the back of the store, sat an old-school typewriter. It was a deep, glossy black with silver trim that gleamed faintly even under the dim fluorescent lights. The keys were round, their letters engraved in bold white, and a sheet of yellowed paper was still tucked into the roller.

“Wow,” she murmured, stepping closer. She ran her fingers along the edge of the typewriter’s cool metal frame. It was in remarkable condition, almost too perfect for a place like this.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” a voice said, startling her.

Titania turned to see the store’s owner standing behind her. He was an older man with sharp eyes that seemed to miss nothing, his salt-and-pepper hair swept back neatly. He wore a faded sweater that hung loosely on his wiry frame, and his hands were tucked into the pockets of his khakis.

“Sorry,” Titania said with a small laugh. “Didn’t hear you sneak up on me.”

He smiled, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “That one caught your eye, huh? Not surprised. She’s got a certain… charm.”

“It’s gorgeous,” Titania admitted, brushing her fingertips over the keys. “Does it still work?”

“Better than you’d think,” he said. Then, after a beat, he added, “Careful with that one. It brings stories to life—but not always the way you expect.”

Titania blinked, caught off guard by the comment. “Excuse me?”

The man shrugged, his gaze fixed on the typewriter like it was an old friend—or maybe an enemy. “Just saying, some things have a way of leaving their mark. Especially when they’ve been around as long as this one.”

She laughed nervously, unsure if he was joking or just eccentric. “Well, I don’t know about all that, but I’ve been looking for something to kickstart my writing. This might be just the thing.”

His eyes flicked up to meet hers, and for a moment, there was something unsettling in his expression—something too knowing. But then the look was gone, replaced by a pleasant smile.

“Let me know if you want it,” he said, turning to shuffle back toward the counter. “I’ll give you a good price. It’s not the kind of thing we sell every day.”

Titania hesitated, then glanced back at the typewriter. The keys seemed to glint at her, almost beckoning. It was ridiculous, of course, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that the old man’s cryptic words carried some weight.

“Alright,” she said, half to herself. “Why not?”

A few minutes later, she left the store with the typewriter carefully cradled in her arms, her wallet twenty dollars lighter and her mind buzzing with ideas. She didn’t notice the way the old man watched her go, his hands folded on the counter and a faint, unreadable smile on his face.

As the rain picked up outside, Titania loaded the typewriter into her car and drove home, unaware of the storm she had just invited into her life.

---

Titania set the typewriter on her desk, stepping back to admire her new addition. Her bedroom was cozy but cramped, with books stacked precariously in every corner and her laptop perpetually charging on the nightstand. The typewriter added a vintage charm, standing out like a polished relic among her modern clutter.

She wiped it down with a soft cloth, though there was hardly any dust on it to begin with. The black metal practically shone, and the keys were smooth beneath her fingers. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d used a typewriter—probably not since high school when she’d taken a creative writing elective on a whim.

“Alright,” she muttered to herself, pulling the yellowed piece of paper from the roller. She held it up to the light, squinting at the faint, uneven typewritten letters. Most of the words were faded beyond recognition, but the last line stood out:

What you write is what you live.

She chuckled, shaking her head. “Okay, creepy.” Titania tossed the paper into the small trash can by her desk, chalking it up to someone’s idea of an artsy tagline.

The typewriter sat there for the next few days, a silent observer in her room. She meant to use it—she really did—but life got in the way. Her freelance writing gig had her swamped with deadlines, and by the time she finished her work for the day, all she wanted to do was binge her favorite wrestling matches and scroll through Twitter.

Still, the typewriter was never far from her mind. Every time she glanced at it, a little spark of excitement flickered in her chest. She imagined herself sitting there, typing away like some old-school novelist, the clacking of the keys drowning out the world.

Sometimes, though, she couldn’t shake the feeling that the typewriter was watching her. Not literally, of course—that was absurd—but there was something about the way it sat so perfectly on her desk. It never seemed to collect dust, and the metal caught the light in a way that made it look alive.

Late one night, as she was lying in bed with her laptop propped on her knees, she thought she heard something—a faint clicking sound, like the typewriter’s keys being pressed.

She froze, the glow of the laptop casting long shadows on the walls. The sound stopped as quickly as it had started, leaving only the hum of her heater and the faint creak of the house settling.

“It’s just the wind,” she muttered, closing her laptop and pulling the covers over her head. Still, her dreams that night were filled with the rhythmic clatter of typewriter keys.

The next morning, as sunlight streamed through the window, Titania glanced at the typewriter and made herself a promise. “I’ll use it soon,” she said aloud. “Maybe tonight. No more excuses.”

She didn’t realize how soon that promise would be tested.

---

By late evening, the storm had arrived in full force. Rain lashed against the windows, thunder grumbled low in the distance, and occasional flashes of lightning lit up the room. Titania sat curled up on her couch with a mug of tea, trying to focus on a book, but the restless energy in the air made it impossible to concentrate.

The weather report had warned of severe storms rolling through the area, and the power had already flickered twice. Titania set her book down with a sigh, her gaze drifting toward the stairs that led to her bedroom. The typewriter sat up there, quiet and untouched since she’d brought it home.

She rubbed the back of her neck, her thoughts already spiraling. Maybe tonight was the night to finally put it to use. The storm gave the perfect excuse—it was moody and dramatic, and, honestly, she had nothing better to do.

Setting her mug on the coffee table, Titania headed upstairs. The house creaked beneath her feet as the wind howled outside, rattling the windows. In her bedroom, the typewriter seemed to gleam in the dim light, waiting for her like it had known she’d come.

Titania pulled out the chair at her desk and sat down. She ran her hands over the keys, hesitating. “Alright, let’s see what you’ve got,” she murmured, cracking her knuckles.

She rolled a fresh sheet of paper into the typewriter and adjusted it until it was snug. The satisfying ding as the roller clicked into place made her smile. The storm raged outside, the clatter of rain against the roof creating a backdrop of white noise.

Titania began to type, her fingers flying over the keys as words spilled onto the page:

The front door creaked open as Jey stepped inside, the scent of rain clinging to him. He carried his luggage in one hand and a bouquet of roses in the other, his face tired but softened by a warm smile. He was home—finally.

The scene played vividly in her mind. She imagined Jey, the dark curls of his hair damp from the rain, his confident stride easing into something gentler as he stepped into the house.

Titania rushed down the stairs, her heart racing as she saw him standing there. She couldn’t help but smile, her voice breaking with emotion as she said, “You’re home.”

She paused, her fingers hovering over the keys. A clap of thunder rumbled overhead, louder this time, shaking the walls. The power flickered once, twice—then went out, plunging the room into darkness.

“Seriously?” Titania groaned, fumbling around her desk for her phone. The storm wasn’t letting up, and the house suddenly felt colder without the hum of the heater.

A moment later, the lights snapped back on, almost startling in their brightness. Titania let out a relieved breath, but her stomach twisted when she noticed something.

The room felt different.

It wasn’t the mess of books on her shelves or the faint smell of burnt-out candles lingering in the air. It was something deeper, a weight pressing against her senses.

Then she heard it—the sound of someone fiddling with the front door.

Titania froze, her heartbeat thundering in her ears. It wasn’t the wind; it was deliberate, like someone was trying to open the lock.

Adrenaline surged through her as she jumped out of her chair. Her eyes darted to the corner of her closet, where she kept the old aluminum baseball bat from her high school softball days. She grabbed it without hesitation, clutching it tightly in her hands.

Moving as quietly as she could, Titania made her way downstairs, each step creaking underfoot. The sound at the door had stopped, but the faint hum of the storm seemed louder now, like it was seeping into the house itself.

Her knuckles whitened as she gripped the bat, bracing herself. She reached the bottom of the stairs and turned toward the door, her breath catching in her throat.

The door clicked open.

The door creaked open slowly, the hinges letting out a low groan as the wind pushed it wider. Titania tightened her grip on the bat, her pulse hammering so loudly in her ears that it nearly drowned out the sound of the storm.

For a second, nothing happened. The doorway was a black void, rain falling in sheets behind it. Then, a figure stepped into the light.

Titania’s breath caught in her throat.

Standing in her doorway, soaked from the rain, was Jey Uso.

He looked exactly as she had imagined him. His dark curls were damp and clung to his face, beads of water running down his sharp jawline. He wore a hoodie zipped halfway up, the fabric sticking to his broad chest, and his luggage hung from one hand. In the other hand was a bouquet of red roses, the petals trembling slightly from the wind.

“Hey,” he said, his voice low and familiar, a sheepish smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Sorry for scaring you, baby.”

Titania’s heart stopped for a beat, then kicked into overdrive. She opened her mouth to say something, but no sound came out. This wasn’t possible. This couldn’t be real.

Jey shifted his weight, looking slightly nervous. “I tried to call, but I think the storm’s messing with the signal.” He gestured vaguely behind him toward the driveway, where his car was parked. “I wrapped up early on the road and thought I’d surprise you. Didn’t want to wait ‘til morning to see you.”

Titania blinked, her grip on the bat loosening as her arms dropped to her sides. “What—” Her voice cracked. She swallowed hard and tried again. “What are you doing here?”

Jey tilted his head, his brow furrowing slightly. “What do you mean? I live here, babe.” He let out a soft laugh, the sound warm and easy. “You okay? Did I scare you that bad?.”

Titania’s mind raced, her thoughts colliding in a chaotic jumble. This had to be some kind of prank, right? But no one she knew could have pulled off something this elaborate. And the way he was looking at her, the familiarity in his voice and his expression—it wasn’t the look of a stranger.

“I…” She hesitated, her mouth dry. “I’m fine. I just wasn’t expecting you. At all.”

Jey stepped inside, setting his luggage down carefully by the door. The bouquet of roses shifted in his grip as he reached up to push his hood back, revealing the full mess of damp curls laying on the top of his head. He held the flowers out to her with an apologetic smile.

“Here. They’re probably a little worse for wear thanks to the rain, but I thought you’d like ‘em.”

Titania stared at the roses, her hand trembling slightly as she reached out to take them. The petals were soft and cool against her skin, the faint scent of them mingling with the rain and Jey’s cologne—a scent so familiar it made her knees weak.

“Thanks,” she said weakly, her voice barely above a whisper.

He gave her a small grin. “You sure you’re good? You look… I don’t know. Stressed.” He took a step closer, concern softening his features. “Did something happen?”

Titania’s mind screamed for her to say something, anything, but she was completely out of her depth. This was Jey Uso—standing in her living room, acting like they’d been together for years. And the worst part was, he sounded so sincere.

Her eyes darted to the stairs, where the typewriter sat in her bedroom. The scene she’d written, the exact words she’d typed—they were unfolding right in front of her, down to the smallest detail.

This wasn’t a coincidence.

Jey’s brow furrowed as he reached out to gently touch her arm. “Tee, talk to me. What’s going on?”

The nickname hit her like a bolt of lightning, breaking her out of her daze. “I—I’m good,” she stammered, forcing a shaky smile. “Just caught me off guard, that’s all. You’re soaked—let me get you a towel.”

Jey hesitated, clearly unconvinced, but he nodded. “Alright. Thanks, babe.”

Titania turned and hurried up the stairs, clutching the roses to her chest as her mind raced. She could feel his eyes on her back, the weight of his presence grounding her in a moment that felt anything but real.

As soon as she reached her bedroom, she set the roses on her desk and stared at the typewriter. It sat there, silent and unassuming, as though it hadn’t just rewritten the fabric of her reality.

“What the hell did I just do?” she whispered.

Downstairs, she heard Jey moving around, his voice faint as he called out, “Hey, do we still have that beer I like in the fridge?”

Titania groaned, running a hand down her face. She had no idea how to answer him—or what she was supposed to do next.

----

Titania took her time coming back down the stairs, her mind racing in circles as she gripped the towel she’d grabbed for Jey. Each step felt heavier than the last, as if the weight of what had just happened—or what was still happening—was pressing down on her.

When she reached the bottom of the staircase, she found Jey standing in the entryway, casually tugging off his damp hoodie. Beneath it, he wore a fitted black T-shirt that clung to his rain-soaked skin, and his tattoos gleamed faintly in the dim light. He looked so at home it made her stomach twist.

“Here,” she said, holding the towel out toward him with a forced smile.

“Thanks,” Jey said, flashing her that easy, crooked grin that always made her heart skip a beat—even before tonight, when she only knew him through a screen. He took the towel and started drying his hair, his damp curls springing back to life as he ruffled them.

Titania stood there, clutching the banister for support, her mind still trying to process what was happening. He was here. He was real. And worse, he thought he belonged here.

Jey noticed her staring and paused, lowering the towel. “You sure you’re okay, Tee? You’re acting... different.”

There it was again—Tee. The way he said it was so familiar, so natural, as if he’d called her that a thousand times before. Titania’s mouth went dry.

“I’m okay,” she said quickly, her voice higher than usual. She cleared her throat and forced herself to relax, leaning against the banister like it was no big deal that Jey Uso was dripping rainwater onto her rug. “Just didn’t expect you to get home tonight, that’s all. I thought you’d still be... on the road.”

“Yeah, I know. I wasn’t supposed to be back until tomorrow, but I finished up early,” he said, tossing the towel over his shoulder and reaching for his luggage. He rolled it over to the edge of the living room, parking it by the couch.

Titania watched him move around like he knew the house—like it was his house. He glanced toward the kitchen, then back at her.

“You eat yet?” he asked.

“What?” she said, blinking.

“Did you eat?” Jey repeated, his brows knitting together slightly. “You get like this when you forget to eat, you know.”

“I—” Titania clamped her mouth shut, unsure how to respond. It was true that she often got scatterbrained when she skipped meals, but how the hell did he know that? She hadn’t written that detail into the story.

Her silence seemed to worry him. Jey stepped closer, his dark eyes scanning her face. He reached out and gently cupped her chin, tilting her head up so she had no choice but to meet his gaze.

“Talk to me,” he said softly. “Did something happen while I was gone?”

The warmth of his hand on her skin sent a shiver down her spine. Titania pulled back instinctively, her heart racing. “No,” she blurted. “No, I’m fine. Really. It’s just... the storm. It’s been messing with my head all night.”

Jey studied her for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then he nodded, stepping back and letting his hand drop to his side. “Alright,” he said, his tone laced with gentle skepticism. “If you say so.”

He glanced toward the kitchen again and smiled faintly. “You still got that wine you like, or do I need to run out and grab some?”

Titania couldn’t stop the small laugh that escaped her, though it sounded more like a gasp of disbelief. “Wine?”

“Yeah,” he said, grinning now. “Figured we could have a little date night. Unless you’re too tired?”

Date night. He was acting like this was just another ordinary evening for them, like this was some normal relationship where he came home and they hung out like any other couple.

The sheer absurdity of it all nearly made her dizzy. She forced another smile and shook her head. “No, I’m not too tired. Wine sounds... great.”

Jey’s grin widened. “Bet. Let me unpack and get cleaned up, and we’ll chill for a bit.”

He grabbed his luggage and headed upstairs, whistling softly as he disappeared down the hall.

Titania stood frozen in place, the room suddenly feeling too quiet without him in it. She slowly sank onto the couch, staring at the towel he’d left draped over the armrest.

Her gaze drifted toward the stairs, her chest tightening. Upstairs, on her desk, was the typewriter that had brought him here. She could still hear the rhythmic clacking of its keys in her head, the words she’d written playing out exactly as she’d imagined.

This wasn’t a dream. This wasn’t some weird coincidence.

She had written Jey Uso into her life.

And now, she had no idea how to undo it.

----

Read Chapter Two ...click here

Wanna join the taglist, let me know!

Taglist: @theusotwinzcom @yana3sworld

[averagewriter-inthedark]

Lover 💗 | Bradley Bradshaw Imagine

TGM masterlist

Characters & Pairings: Bradley Bradshaw x singer!reader (female/romance)

Content Warnings: fluff, mentions of sexism, references to pop culture, profanity | female!reader (she/her) | wc: 5.6k

Requested 📨 yes/no (for @auroradawnwrites 💗)

Premise : When it came to her love life, singer and songwriter Y/n L/n had a reputation where it felt like the world was against her to the point she doubted ever finding her perfect match. Being in the industry for so long made it difficult to envision what a life with her potential soulmate would be like. But sometimes great things come to people who are patient. And finding the person who made Y/n feel like the only girl in the world had that reputation flicker away like dust on a bookshelf.

Note: I know I keep apologizing for the long waits in my requests but I promise it’s because of having to balance school, random shit happening in my life, and wanting to put out a developed, well-thought out story that the requested person deserves 🥹 and I realized about week ago when I started writing this one after finally getting to it after it was sent in February. @auroradawnwrites I saw that you posted last month that you were leaving your blog but if you happen to see this on another account or still have the notifications on for that blog just know I’m so sorry for this taking so long and I hope it was everything you imagined 😭

Songs headcanonned for singer!reader: ‘Love Story,’ ‘Bad Blood,’ ‘Look What You Made Me Do,’ ‘Getaway Car’ ‘You Need To Calm Down’ by Taylor Swift. ‘Love’ by Lana Del Rey. Albums mentioned that are headcanonned for singer!reader: ‘Lover’, ‘1989’ (I just changed it to 1986 to suit the headcanonned year of birth for reader), ‘Reputation,’ ‘Fearless,’ ‘Red’

——————————

“Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome back our next guest,” Jimmy Fallon grins to the audience, arm slightly raising towards the curtains. “She’s been a friend to The Tonight Show for a long time. Here to celebrate twenty years since her debut and to talk about her newest album ‘Lover,’ singer and songwriter—the one and only, Y/n L/n!!”

There’s no need to turn on the sign reading ‘Applause,’ because the audience are on their feet when the curtains draw open slightly to reveal the beaming popstar. People are waving frantically, whistling, some even on the verge of tears at the fact they were in the presence of their idol. It was even hard hearing the band play from the noise

Y/n smiled the entire walk to Jimmy, blowing kisses at the crowd before embracing the man in a hug and settling down on the arm chair. “Wow, wow, wow,” he shouted, watching her give one last wave as he sat in his own chair. “Hi, Y/n.”

“Hi, Jimmy! It’s wonderful to see you again.”

“It’s great to see you too, it’s been awhile since we’ve had you on, huh?” Both make faces indicating they were thinking about her last appearance on the show.

“I think it’s been almost…six years,” Y/n tapped her lips with a finger. “Pre-pandemic I believe—because I haven’t really done much since 2019.”

“Yeah, you took a bit of a break.”

“A much needed one,” she chuckled, “But it feels so great to be back. I’ve been taking this time to really put time into discovering who I am as a person and what is next for me. I’m so grateful for the fans who’ve supported me all this time—I know,” she looks to the camera, “I know I kept you waiting, but fear not, I am back and better than ever.” The statement ignites a holler and applause from the crowd.

Jimmy claps with the audience, “That’s what I’m talking about. What can you tell us about this new music you’ve been working on? I know I mentioned your upcoming one, but you actually announced you will be releasing another at the end of this year, correct?”

Instantly Y/n lights up, “That’s right, Jimmy. For starters Lover is probably my most personal album to date. During the pandemic I basically shut myself off from everyone—and the world because I deleted the social media apps off my phone,” there’s a light chuckle from the crowd, “which made everyone go crazy thinking I died. But I can assure you I was just trying to put all my time and energy into writing, producing, selecting which songs would go on the track list. Each song is there for a specific reason—telling a story per say, and I feel listeners will be able to relate in some way.”

“Why the name ‘Lover,’?” Jimmy asked with curiosity, “is it a metaphor for the story or does it have a deeper meaning?” Judging by the cheesy smile Y/n started to do, Jimmy straightened his posture. “Are you….?”

“It’s for the lovers, you know?” Y/n shrugged nonchalantly. Those around didn’t buy it, leaning forward in their seats with curious eyes. “Yeah it’s about love and those feelings where you think your heart is about to burst from your chest. Like I said, many will be able to relate to it.”

Jimmy gave a look, “So did someone in your life inspire it perhaps?”

Instead of answering right at that second, Y/n remained grinning as the face of inspiration and the owner of her heart appeared in her mind. His gorgeous hazel eyes glowing under the sunlight. The feeling of his warm body against hers each time he held her in his arms. Tickling sensations from his mustache when he rained kisses across her skin. The sound of his laugh whenever he made a joke or she did something silly just to see him smile. Fingers dancing across the piano while they sang their favorite songs in their own private concert.

Her lover. Her life. Her reason for waking up everyday in an endless state of bliss. The person who inspired nearly every song on the album, best describing it as a love letter to him.

Relationships and romance had been a complicated part of Y/n’s life and career. A reputation often frowned upon despite only seeing a small picture.

It all started one summer day in Nashville, Tennessee. 17-year-old Y/n had big dreams and aspirations of being a singer, spending her free time playing guitar and writing songs about teenage experiences. Growing up in Tennessee, the birthplace of country music, Y/n was surrounded by the legacy of icons like Dolly Parton, The Dixie Chicks, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Reba McEntire, and Kenny Rogers. It was all she listened to growing up, though she did dabble in pop and R&B—going on to cite Aaliyah, TLC, Whitney Houston, and David Bowie as influences in her music.

“I hear the high school is having a talent show Friday night,” her coworker hummed, handing over the now clean plate to be dried. “Did you sign up?”

“No,” Y/n tiredly exhaled. It was pushing 8 o’clock and she still had one more hour until closing. Working at a popular diner gave Y/n the ability to save for college and an apartment, but it meant working more hours than what she legally was supposed to—on top of balancing school and band. “I have a pre-cal test on monday so I planned to stay in and study.”

“Oh c’mon! You’ve been itching to sign up all year—why back out now? All for a test you know you’ll get an A on?”

Y/n rolled her eyes, taking another plate to dry, “That’s reaching and you know it.”

“Y/n, you’re one of the smartest people in our grade. Literally will be in the top five come graduation. It’s a Friday night and the whole school is gonna be there,” her friend pleads to her, “you’ve got a voice that’s meant to be heard and songs that should be on the radio.”

The teen gives a ‘I don’t think so,’ shrug, “Eh, I feel my style is not exactly what country music is looking for.”

“Maybe so…but maybe it’s what it needs.”

Guitar in hand and shaking like a leaf, Y/n pulled everything in her to drum her fingers on the strings. The spotlight shining down on her made her squint, unable to see into the crowd save for the silhouette of their heads.

“Just breathe, Y/n,” she mentally told herself. It was dead quiet in the auditorium after a light applause when the drama teacher called her name. And since she wasn’t using an electric guitar, there was no way to hook hers up to the speakers. “Breathe and let your voice do the work.”

Clearing her throat, her lips curled into a shy smile, “This is an original song I’ve been working on. Hope you like it.” Slowly the tune began to echo through the auditorium. Y/n’s voice was shaky at the beginning, but soon found confidence when she closed her eyes and pictured herself in the comfort of her own room.

“We were both young when I first saw you.”

“I close my eyes and the flashback starts, I’m standing’ there.”

“On a balcony in summer air.”

Those in the crowd perked up, schoolmates looking at each other with impressed gazes.

“See the lights, see the party, the ball gowns.”

“See you make your way through the crowd, and say, “Hello.”

“Little did I know.”

Finally finding her rhythm, a genuine grin broke out on her face.

“That you were Romeo, you were throwin’ pebbles.”

“And my daddy said, “Stay away from Juliet—and I was cryin’ on the staircase,”

“Beggin’ you, “Please don’t go,” she let her voice drag out the ‘go’, igniting jaws to be dropped. “And I said.”

“Romeo, take me somewhere we can be alone. I'll be waiting, all there’s left to do is run.”

“You’ll be the prince and I’ll be the princess.”

“It’s a love story, baby, just say, ‘Yes.’”

Needless to say, Y/n went home with the winning trophy….and a meeting with Capitol Records Nashville.

Going to college was no longer the plan for Y/n once her signature hit the contract. 3 albums and a promise to take country music by storm was the new future. Staring as soon as her tassel turned from right to left with the class of 2004. Y/n packed up her tiny Honda Civic with everything she had, kissed her family goodbye with plans to see them for the holidays and settled into a cozy studio apartment smack in the middle of Nashville.

“You have a unique voice and lyrical direction, Y/n,” Randy Kingston, one of the execs at CRN said to her one day. “You’re not full country—by that I mean there’s a pop element you bring to the table. Country-Pop if you will.”

Y/n didn’t know how to respond except nod, “Uhhh yeah? I listen to a lot of different genres—-Pop being a big one. A-and I like to experiment by adding different….flavors to my music.” Her expression turns nervous, “is that gonna be a problem, sir?”

Randy rubbed the bottom of his chin with a hand, “No, I don’t think it will. It’s refreshing and something new. Frankly I think you’re gonna do well with the youngin’s. Your age range will likely be the best receivers.”

Turns out Randy was right. Releasing her first two singles were met with wide recognition from teenagers and young adults. Topping the country music charts for several weeks. During that time Y/n began working on her debut self-titled album on top of filming her first music video for ‘Love Story’. When it dropped, it didn’t just get noticed within the country scene. MTV released it during their early morning showings most people played when getting ready for school and work. Doing so allowed ‘Love Story’ to get more attention that people who were not even country fans were purchasing the single.

“Platinum?!” Y/n screamed at the sight of the framed record indicating ‘Love Story’ sold one million copies.

“Platinum,” Randy grinned, presenting it to her. “Well done, kiddo. You deserve it.” He also dropped the ball that Ellen Degeneres called to schedule an appearance—which nearly had Y/n drop the frame in her hands.

The Ellen Degeneres Show was the first public interview Y/n had ever done. And….it was the first time she was questioned about her love life. Something that would become her greatest nemesis throughout her entire career.

“So your song ‘Love Story’ is all about love, yes?” Ellen asked, igniting a laugh from the audience given the title of the song made it obvious what it was about.

“Yes.”

“So does that mean you got some love going on for yourself? Anyone who inspired this for you?”

“U-Uh, no?” It came out more like a question, causing the audience to laugh while she nervously smiled. “Not really—I-I’m not dating anyone currently, but the song sorta came from my love for romance novels and movies. Everyone desires love,” she nods to herself, “and I wanted to write something that people could relate to. Plus I love Romeo and Juliet—which is the big inspiration for the song.”

Following the appearance on Ellen, Y/n focused on writing music and releasing her albums. Her unique sound of combining country with elements of pop and R&B had listeners from all over the world drawn to her. It was a new era of country music.

But not everyone was very accepting of it.

Older generations and die hard lovers of traditional country were very unwelcoming to Y/n. They felt she didn’t belong in the genre and was better suited for pop. Though Y/n agreed to some extent, she feared making the transition from country to full pop wouldn’t be wise. She was still roughly new to the industry, trusting the judgment of her label who she was contracted to do 3 albums for. So she continued to fulfill her duty until the right moment came.

By the end of the first decade in the 21st century, Y/n had established herself one of the leading artists in country music with four Grammys, six MTV Moonmen, four AMA’s, five Billboard awards and 12 CMA’s. She appeared twice on SNL, performed at Dick Clark’s New Year Rockin’ Eve, and even collaborated with Miranda Lambert.

Yet the media liked to only talk about Y/n’s dating history.

In the first year of her career, Y/n briefly dated Jesse McCartney after first meeting at the 2005 Kids Choice Awards. Shortly after their breakup she was seen with Harry Potter actor Tom Felton, but nothing came out of it. The ‘date’ the media thought had actually been a handout between several of their mutual friends where they happened to be pictured smiling and laughing. After that incident Y/n did get into a five month long relationship with Leonardo DiCaprio, who was twelve years older than her and sparked endless conversation in the media.

Then in 2007-2009 Y/n became involved with Eddie Redmayne following their introduction to each other at Ellen Degeneres’ birthday party. They remained friends afterwards, but their relationship inspired a lot of Y/n’s work which resulted in people criticizing her for making too many break up songs.

“You’ve had quite the track record when it comes to the romance scene, Y/n,” David Letterman voiced during her appearance on his show. The singer was overcome with immediate dread. Again was she subjected to questions about her love life when it was no one’s business. But of course, if there’s one thing men like David have, it’s the audacity. “Which brings me to my next questions: are you dating anyone? And are they gonna have a song about them once you two break up?”

Now unfortunately it was common knowledge late night show hosts were disrespectful towards their guests and didn’t know what boundaries were. Though this was known, however, there was still the underlying pressure to keep silent by smiling and pushing through. Sometimes playing it off like it doesn’t affect you was better than having an outburst and being criticized more by the media. Displaying any offense would label them emotional and sensitive.

Though she wanted nothing more than to walk off the set and cry in her dressing room, Y/n swallowed the lump in her throat and answered as calmly as she could muster. “I’m not seeing anyone at the moment. I just want to focus on my music and what comes from my heart is what I put out.”

When Y/n did get into a relationship or was seen on a friendly date—hell even being spotted when out with a male friend for lunch had paparazzi and tabloids bombarding her.

“Is love in the air….again? Country music’s it girl, 24-year-old Y/n L/n, was seen holding hands with Australian actor Xavier Samuel who’s playing Riley Biers in the upcoming third installment of The Twilight Saga. Just this past March Y/n was linked to the son of Tennessee’s Attorney General. Let’s not forget L/n was in a two year romance with Eddie Redmayne before calling it quits last fall. Fans are starting to notice a pattern when it comes to L/n’s relationships and album releases. Should we expect her new single to drop within the next year? And will this romance with Samuel blossom into something long term or end as a spur of the moment flame?”

Notice how all the attention is Y/n and her life? Never once were the men she dated ever asked questions like she was—even if they had a history rivaling hers. Take Leo for example. The women he dated only got younger than Y/n as the years went on and people barely bat an eye.

After the release of her third studio album with CRN, Y/n had a tough decision to make. By that point her last album had more pop than country. The reaction of the fans was pretty much, “You need to just label yourself a pop artist now.” “‘Red’ was literally 90% Pop with 10% Country.” “Stop saying you’re a country music star when the last album you put out was anything but country.”

So…it was safe to say it was time to make the move to a different genre. Thankfully Capitol Records in Los Angeles was ready with the pen in hand to sign Y/n on. There she had creative control on what she put out and Y/n was excited to get started on a new era in her life.

2012 would go down as the year where Y/n was on the edge of her seat with how her career would go. Fans were mixed about her going to pop despite her recent music having mostly pop elements. Then there was the fact she was dating Tyler Hoechlin from Teen Wolf which had fangirls hating her guts for dating their celebrity crush.

What’s sad is Y/n was used to that reception whenever she was in a relationship with a public figure. First Jesse then Tom, Leo, Eddie, and Xavier. Can’t forget the times she got caught on dates with Robert Pattinson, Micheal B. Jordan, and Chris Evans. Then there were the incidents where the paparazzi captured her making out with Sebastian Stan at an after party and leaving the 2011 Grammys with Nate Buzoliac before he made it big as Kol Mikaelson in The Vampire Diaries.

Getting a break was not in the cards for the singer.

When things ended with Tyler in 2015, Y/n told herself she would not date anyone for awhile. Her album ‘1986’ was met with critical acclaim and positive reception from fans, earning her more awards to her growing collection, including the Grammy for Album of the Year. The entire time on tour she focused on having fun and not worrying about what people thought of her. Yeah she still got questions from interviews and hosts about dating she’d simply reply with, “I’m single, and let’s not entertain that further. Next question.”

@ inmyreputationera: I guess @Y/nL/n86 decided romance isn’t exactly her thing. I wonder how that’ll change her music.

@ stanningselenerr: not me checking @ Y/ndatingupdates daily for any new info.

Those were just the handful of tweets Y/n saw everyday on her Twitter feed. It got to the point she’d have to mute notifications whenever she was tagged. While she hated doing so because she loved interacting with fans, the singer needed time away from the constant surveillance of her personal life.

So fast forward to mid-summer of 2018. Y/n hadn’t put out an album in nearly three years nor had she been dating anyone. Yeah people still asked her from time to time though she learned to not let it affect her. Honestly it was a breath of fresh air. She was happy, healthy, and living her best life. Putting her heart and soul into songwriting which was heavily inspired by the reputation she’d garnered since her debut. Not to mention developing closer bonds with her friends and family after making the impulse decision in 2017 to move back to Tennessee. It felt good to be back home. Returning to her roots and the place that started it all after being away for so many years. It was a great time.

Now she was due back to Los Angeles to meet with her manager and producers. Y/n was ready to get back into the studio as much as her fans were telling her they were waiting for new music. With a first-class ticket in hand, Y/n boarded her red-eye flight from Nashville International to LAX and settled in for the five hour flight. It would have them landing at just after 3am Pacific time and while Y/n wanted to rest, she could not for the life of her sleep on a plane.

Approaching her seat Y/n noticed a man in a military uniform seated in the seat beside hers. “Excuse me,” she caught his attention, his head raising where he put two and two together by her hand pointing to the window seat.

“Oh sorry, ma’am,” it took everything in Y/n not to stare at him when he got up. He was very handsome. In his uniform, hazel eyes and sun kissed skin. The most notable feature was his mustache that most men could not pull off yet he seemed to.

“Do you need help with that?” The question pulled her from her mini daydream. He was referring to the carryon bag in her hand.

“Oh I got it—.”

“It’s no problem,” he was already taking the bag from her, securing it in the overhead compartment.

“Thank you so much,” Y/n thanked him while moving into the row, placing her purse in her lap when she sat down. The man returned to his seat just as the next wave of passengers boarded.

Manny, her personal bodyguard who’d been with Y/n since her first tour, was seated in front of her. When they got the tickets he purposely told her to have them separated saying, “I need my beauty sleep and while I love you, you will talk the entire time.” Sure enough when Y/n leaned over to ask him a question Manny was already knocked out, buckled in with his eye mask over his eyes and earbuds in.

Well that left Y/n with little to do. And when she went to retrieve her Kindle she groaned at the realization she forgot to turn back her reading light.

“Everything okay?” She saw the man in her peripheral vision slightly turn his head.

“Yeah just…annoyed with myself. I thought I packed my reading light but I must’ve misplaced it.” God that made her sound like a grandma.

His response was an ‘ah’ sound. “Wish I could help ya there, but I’m not usually equipped with something like that.”

“It’s fine,” she chuckled, buckling in her seatbelt. “It was to pass the time—I can’t sleep on flights. Even though it's midnight and I should feel tired.”

“I’m the same,” he suddenly extended a hand, “I’m Bradley by the way.”

Hesitant to reply in case he were to react to her name, Y/n pushed back any concern and gave a warm smile as she took his hand, “I’m Y/n. Nice to meet you, Bradley.”

“Y/n…” her name was repeated slowly, Bradley’s eyes consorting as though they were deep in thought. A wave of dread and nerves coursed through her. Then Bradley grinned, “Oh! I thought you looked familiar. You sing that song—what was it, ‘Love Story?’ Sorry I don’t mean to sound weird,” he let go of her hand when he realized he was still shaking it. “And I don’t want to bother you. I just can’t help but go, ‘wow!’”

“No-no-no, it’s okay! You’re totally fine.” Before long the two fell into conversation following the typical pre-flight announcements. Y/n was amazed by how natural it felt talking to Bradley. She discovered he was a Naval aviator, coming home from an assignment overseas and was flying to L.A to visit some friends. Bradley had been a graduate of UVA and attended the elite Fighter Weapons School, marking ten years with the navy that year.

“Forgive me for admitting this,” he said after the first hour into the flight, lowering his voice when a passenger trying to sleep glared at them. “But while I know who you are…I’m not really familiar with your work. Y-yeah I mentioned your one song but that’s literally all I know,” he laughed nervously. “My taste in music, I’m embarrassed to say aloud, is very limited.”

Y/n tilts her head, “how limited?”

“Uh, I pretty much only listen to the 1950s all the way to the 80s. Dabbling in what’s popular nowadays once in a blue moon. My karaoke songs are all Jerry Lewis” Bradley gives a gentle smile, “And while I can easily do a Google search, I’d much rather hear it from you if you don’t mind telling me.”

What’s that saying again? Oh that’s right, ‘And the rest was history.’

No but literally Y/n could barely contain her attraction to Bradley after he said that to her. She hoped to God she didn’t look like a fool as she spoke of her career and cool places she’s been. Time flew as they talked. In fact the two were so caught up in their conversation they talked the remainder of the journey to L.A, ending with the exchange of phone numbers and the promise to meet up.

It was decided right from the get go that Bradley and Y/n wanted to keep their relationship hidden. Regardless if the one date went somewhere, the last thing Y/n wanted was to have Bradley in the public eye and cause complications with his job. And let’s not forget her album was releasing within the next year. So, there was going to be a lot of attention on her wherever she went.

“The fact we’ve managed to keep this quiet for a year is outstanding,” Y/n said through a mouthful of cake. Bradley had surprised her with her favorite kind, the icing on the top reading, ‘Happy Anniversary, baby—we’ve got them fooled.’

She couldn’t believe they were already marking one year. Time didn’t seem to exist when she was with Bradley. He was everything she envisioned in a partner. Caring, compassionate, funny, intuitive. Listened to her concerns and communicated. Never made her doubt herself or paid attention to the media.

When she brought up her reputation, or better yet the one the press painted her out to have, Bradley stopped her and said, “who you have history with is not my business—unless they did something to hurt you because then I’ll have a problem with them. And those people talking nonsense about you have nothing else better to do with themselves. I care about you, Y/n. The only one who has influence on how I see you, is you. And I see you as the most beautiful, hardworking, intelligent person who knows her worth. Fuck what they say.”

Yeah that night ended with her jumping his bones.

Bradley took a fork full of his own into his mouth, “I for sure thought they were gonna catch us the night I snuck you on base.” After their first meeting in L.A, Bradley had returned to Virginia while Y/n remained to work on her album. It was a couple months before she went home to Tennessee, then for the holidays they planned to meet up when Y/n was on her way to New York. Sneaking her on base involved the two going undercover where they met at a discreet location and having Y/n shove herself under blankets in his backseat.

The singer laughed at the memory, “Thank Goodness for Shania. Had she not posted that photo to ‘tip off’ the paps then we’d have a whole different outcome.” Bradley laughed with her, placing his fork down on the napkin.

“I’m sorry I can’t be there for your release day,” Bradley had been called back to Top Gun for a special detachment by the Navy. Unfortunately the timing was right when her sixth studio album would drop. The details were still unclear, but that it was a team mission where he would compete against his colleagues. Y/n had yet to meet any of Bradley’s friends and vice versa. The only people in her circle who knew of their relationship were her manager, Manny, and family. But when you signed up to keep your love life private, it meant friends were lost in the dark.

“It’s okay, Roo,” she told him. “We’ll have our own celebration.” Another cake, this time with the design being the album’s cover art on it, was brought over the day before Bradley was set to fly to San Diego and the two had their private release party with just the two of them. The music was blasting through the speakers, Y/n jumping up and down with Bradley who was singing at the top of his lungs.

“Band-aids don’t fix bullet holes! You say sorry just for show! If you live like that, you live with ghosts!”

“I’m in a getaway car. I left you in a motel bar. Put the money in a bag and I stole the key—that was the last time you ever saw me—Oh!”

“Ooh, look what you made me do! Look what you made me do! Look what you just made me do!”

Champagne was popped, kisses were shared, and they danced the entire night until it came time to sleep.

They FaceTimed whenever Bradley had free time, even if it was in the later hours of the night. Those three weeks Y/n felt her heart long for Bradley in a way it had never done with her previous partners. She felt his excitement, his distress. The day he left for the mission Y/n paced around her home for hours—unable to focus on anything and overcome with nausea. It was as though her mind was trying to tell her something was wrong.

Relief came at around nightfall, the singer tripping as she raced to grab her phone when it rang. Seeing Bradley’s picture pop up had the breath she was holding in release. “Oh thanks God,” was the first thing she said.

“I’m coming back to you,” was his response. Tears pricked in the corner of her eyes, hand going to her chest to calm the rapid beat of her heart.

“I would expect nothing less, Lieutenant Bradshaw.”

Several celebrations were in store for the couple when Bradley returned to the east coast. Not only did he receive a medal from the Navy for his brave actions but got a promotion. Y/n’s album hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the first hour of its release, prompting a record number of sales in a single night for the singer.

“I’m so proud of you, Bradley,” she praised, patting the new patch on his uniform indicating he was now a Lieutenant Commander. She was met with a sweet kiss on the lips.

“Thank you, baby. I’m proud of you too—you’re gonna win everything come awards season.”

During the 2020 Grammy’s, Bradley leaped from the couch in absolute joy when Y/n’s name was called for the winner of Pop Album of the Year and Record of The Year. She missed out on Album of the Year, but that was okay. She was now the owner of 12 Grammys in total. Coming home the following night Y/n’s home was decorated with balloons, a banner reading, ‘Congratulations!!’ and of course, a cake with an edible Grammy topper.

And so it came time for a break. Six albums in a fifteen-year long career, Y/n kept it under the wraps that she wouldn’t be putting out another album for some time. Fans had started to notice she was more uplifted and vibrant in interviews, posting things on social media that were suspicious. For example she uploaded a photo of red roses, captioning it “the symbol of love.” Then there was the screenshotting of well known love songs and posting them on her story.

@ Y/nstansince04: is it me or does @Y/nL/n86 appear happier than usual? Is she hiding something?

@ getawaycarlover_: @Y/nL/n86 totally has a man or someone in her life. That recent Instagram post had all the hints.

@ fearlessdefender: I bet it’s a normal guy she’s with and not a celebrity. If it was we’d probably would’ve known by now who it was.

@ Y/ns_red_lipstick: honestly if Y/n does have a boyfriend then I’m happy for her and wish them the best. She deserves to be happy and we should respect their privacy. She doesn’t have to share with the world if it’s their desire to keep it secret.

Right when the world went to chaos at the brink of a global pandemic, Y/n thought, “you know what, I’m gonna just delete my social media—not my accounts but the apps on my phone. I want to go off the grid for a bit and just enjoy my family and boyfriend.” Not having the constant shadow of social media on her back made it easier for the singer on the break she desired.

Everyday she fell more in love with Bradley. She had been visiting him when quarantine happened so they basically went to the next step in their relationship by living together. Again, it all felt natural. They settled into a domestic life with each other early on with homemade dinners, movie nights, nerf gun wars, and karaoke contests. Bradley on the piano and Y/n with her guitar, being each other’s act and audience in their private concert.

“You shake my nerves and you rattle my brain. Too much love drives a man insane. You broke my will, but what a thrill. Goodness gracious, great balls of fire!”

“Romeo take me somewhere we can be alone. I’ll be waiting, all there’s left to do is run. You’ll be the prince and I’ll be the princess. It’s a love story, baby just say, ‘Yes!’”

Late nights were reserved for drives with the speakers blasting. Y/n camera roll would be filled with endless videos of the two, but mostly of Bradley jamming to his favorite songs. More often than usual the thought of, “I’m gonna marry this man,” would cross her mind.

“You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog. Cryin’ all the time. You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog. Cryin’ all the time. Well, you ain’t never caught a rabbit and you ain’t no friend of mine!”

Y/n would lean her body out the window when it was a clear road where they were the only ones, hair blowing and the light from the moon shining down on her. Her beautiful voice carried in the night sky, Bradley in absolute awe of her and wanting to capture the moment forever.

“I came home in the mornin’ light—my mother says, ‘when you gonna live your life right?’ Oh momma dear, we’re not the fortunate ones. And girls, they wanna have fun. Oh girls just wanna have fun!”

But was supposed to be maybe two years at most…..ended up being close to five.

Honestly Y/n was surprised to still have fans. To say they were shitting bricks when she out of the blue dropped a cover art for her upcoming single, ‘Love’ would be an understatement. They were losing their fucking minds.

@ Y/nwhereforartthou: IS THIS REALLY HAPPENING OH MY FUCKING SHIT! PLEASE TELL ME THIS AINT A JOKE Y/N IS COMING BACK AFTER FIVE FUCKING YEARS

@ stilladirectionerbby: *insert Micheal Scott gif* OH MY GOD IT’S HAPPENING—Y/N’S RELEASING NEW MUSIC

@ MTV: when all hope was lost, our prayers were answered….by @Y/nL/n86

Then she announced in the same week they were getting not one but two albums that year.

@ themadalorianswife: TWO ALBUMS?!?! WE GETTING TWO?!?! GOD FUCKING BLESS

@ daddyisastateofmind: oh mother is spoiling us after making us wait so long and I absolutely am here for it.

@ neveroutofstyle_: love how @Y/nL/n86 basically said “this is my sorry for falling off the face of the earth, please forgive me.” On behalf of the fandom, we forgive you queen.

And wanna know something else?

What was even more impressive than becoming a ghost for five years with little to no sightings by the paparazzi, was that she and Bradley had yet to be discovered. Her lover was just as good of a ghost as she was. Their secret was like trying to find the Holy Grail.

Hidden like a treasure the world desired to unearth.

And on their six year anniversary, Bradley got them the same cake as the first time he did. The icing reading, "Happy 7 years, baby—we’ve totally got them fooled.”

…………….

TGM Tag list: @avaleineandafryingpan , @caitsymichelle13 , @poppyalice2001 , @cutelittlepotatofry , @luckyladycreator2 , @americaarse , @elenavampire21 , @back-tooo-black , @wildellaa , @artemissunn , @pinkpantheris

[tavolgisvist]

You Tell Me

When was that summer when the skies were blue? The bright red cardinal flew down from his tree You tell me When was that summer when it never rained? The air was buzzin' with the sweet old honey bee Let's see You tell me Were we there, was it real? Is it truly how I feel? Maybe You tell me Were we there, is it true? Was I really there with you? Let's see You tell me When was that summer of a dozen words? The butterflies and hummingbirds flew free Let's see You tell me Let's see You tell me

“I was really happy he [David Khane] let me include the count-in. It’s iconic.”

(Paul McCartney about You Tell Me recording)

A lovely sunny summer day. Once again, I was out at John’s house in Weybridge. <…> Around that time there was quite a spate of summer songs. ‘Daydream’ and ‘Summer in the City’ by The Lovin’ Spoonful, The Kinks’ ‘Sunny Afternoon’ – I think all those came out during the same year, 1966. We wanted to write something sunny. Both John and I had grown up while the music hall tradition was still very vibrant, so it was always in the back of our minds. There are lots of songs about the sun, and they make you happy: ‘The Sun Has Got His Hat On’ or ‘On the Sunny Side of the Street’. It was now time for us to do ours. So we’ve got love and sun, what more do we want? ‘We take a walk, the sun is shining down / Burns my feet as they touch the ground’ – that was a nice memory of summer. ‘Then we’d lie beneath a shady tree / I love her and she’s loving me’. It’s really a very happy song.

(Paul McCartney about Good Day Sunshine (1966), The Lyrics, 2021)

There's that old Maurice Chevalier song from Gigi called 'I remember It Well', which goes, ‘We met at nine, we met at eight, I was on time, no, you were late / Ah, yes, I remember it well’. I love that. A great little routine. The man in the song doesn’t quite remember, but the woman does, and ‘You Tell Me’ is a little bit like that. This is just memory. Often I think, ‘Oh my God, I really met Elvis Presley. I was really in his house, and it was a moment in time that really happened.’ That’s all there is to it. It just happened. Sometimes I pinch myself and think, ‘Was I really on the same couch as Elvis, talking about this stuff?’ I want to remember it three hundred per cent more; I want to bring it back: ‘Were we there, was it real? / Is it truly how I feel? / Maybe / You tell me’. <…> Because Linda’s father had a place in the Hamptons, I started going out there with her. That’s way over forty years ago – could be over fifty. I think that’s also where I wrote this, sometime in the early 2000s, and perhaps where the line about the red cardinal came from too, since you see them out there. ‘When was that summer of a dozen words?’ When everything’s going really well, nobody needs to talk, so you may just be sitting around with someone and reading books, or reading a newspaper, and you hardly even speak because there’s no need to; you’re in such a comfortable situation. ‘When was that summer when it never rained?’ I like that I’m not even going to try and remember what year it was. I remember hearing a story in the 1960s, when everyone was looking towards India and Indian mysticism, of some guy who was visiting a friend, and he came into the room and just sat down in a corner, and they didn’t speak. The idea was they were such good friends that they wouldn’t speak until someone had something to say. It wouldn’t just be, ‘What did you think of the football the other day?’ They were absolutely in each other’s presence, not needing to say anything. When they spoke it had to be meaningful. I liked the image of the peacefulness in that room. David Gilmour and Paul Weller, a couple of musicians whose opinion I value, independently sent me messages to say, ‘Wow, I like that one’ – to say that this song was one of their favourites of mine. Your main feedback is generally from critics, so it’s nice to get responses from people who’ve heard the song, especially real musicians, and were affected enough that they can be bothered to actually write to you. These days, it’s a message on your phone; there aren’t many people now who would sit down with beautiful old Basildon Bond stationery and expand it a bit. I don’t do too much letter writing myself anymore, but I have to admit I do like handwriting. I enjoyed being taught it at school, and I had a ‘proper’ way of handwriting. I miss the old stationery. I love the civility of letter writing. George Martin always wrote a letter to thank me for his birthday gift. We’d done ‘When I’m Sixty-Four’ together, so I would always send a birthday bottle of wine, and he would handwrite me a very elegant note. It was always a delight. In fact, I’ve kept most of them. George’s widow, Lady Judy Martin, has the same sensibility. It was very much what you did when I was growing up, but also, a certain class did it. I don’t know of many of my working-class friends in the street who did it, but my family did, and I had friends later, who lived in places like Hampstead, who would open their mail in the morning and answer it. They had one of those little envelope slitters, and they would be quite organised: ‘Dear Henry, What a surprise to hear from you. I was thinking of you only the other day . . .’ I like the civility of that. You know, the working-class equivalent of letters was the postcard. You used to write and try to be amusing. That’s when you could say things like, ‘The air was buzzing with the sweet old honeybee’. Now we have Instagram, but the postcard was the Instagram of its day.

(Paul McCartney about You Tell Me (2007), The Lyrics, 2021)

Lying behind the phrase ‘We’re on our way home’ is less the literal sense of going back to London, but more about trying to get in touch with the people we once were. The postcard sending does have a very literal feel, though. Whenever Linda and I went away, we would buy lots of postcards and send them to all our friends. John was also a great postcard sender, so you’d get some great stuff from him.

(Paul McCartney about Two Of Us (1969), The Lyrics, 2021)

[9w1ft]

Hi! I am a news Gaylor/Kaylor and to me- you’re like Wikipedia! I love your analysis and posts and it feels like I will need like 5 years to catch up.

So I wanted to ask you if you could tell me your favourite Karlie coded song of each album and why do you like it that much. English is not my first language and it feels like I miss a lot because of that.

Thank you! Have a lovely day

hi! welcome to my blog and i’m so sorry things are hard to navigate and research, but i hope you have fun!

your question is a fun question! and SO HARD to pick just one from each. SO HARD! (update: its so super hard!! wow!) i truly have multiple favorites for most albums. ultimately i tried to mix it up a little bit and not always just the classics or if i like the beat of the song. it was still so hard! because the last time i counted, for me, there are over 50 kaylor songs now, in my opinion🫶

ok, i will try to write more short explanations but let me know if something doesn’t make sense!

Fearless: Love Story because karlie has said in an interview that it’s her favorite song and because a long long time ago karlie was in a photoshoot that matches the love story mv aesthetic

Speak Now: Enchanted because, whether or not it was written about karlie, taylor went on to mash it up during 1989 era with wildest dreams while wearing a sequin bodysuit with background visuals just like the lover mv fish bowl scene, and i think these visuals are incredibly moving

RED: The Very First Night because i like to imagine it’s about karlie, specifically taylor thinking about all the times in the past that they crossed paths and wishing she could go back in time and confess her feelings to karlie earlier. it’s a sweet song but there is also a quiet sadness that i think matches some of the timing issues they’ve had as soulmates

1989: Style because, after it was recorded in february 2014, it continued on to only become more and more of a kaylor anthem. from taylor walking down the runway at vsfs 2014 hand in hand with karlie to this song, to taylor including it in one of the medleys on rep tour that was so karlie coded (style/love story/you belong with me),

reputation: call it what you want because the song truly sounds like taylor and the background singers and singing “karlie what you want” and “call it what you want, karlie” and i happen to believe that karlie is the one filming taylor in the making of video

Lover: Afterglow because it’s one of the first times we hear taylor apologizing to karlie in her lyrics (i tied your hands behind your back, oh, thought i had reason to attack, but no) and i think it’s one of the key songs to understanding a recurring theme in their relationship and the fact that taylor recognizes it. which i think was powerful to know at the time. made every next album easier to think about.

folklore: the lakes because it is the first time taylor used the word muse to describe karlie. also it was released a little bit after the album came out and a lot of people at the time were saying kaylor had broken up because the album ended on the song hoax, which is a sad song. taylor released the lakes and it re-contextualized the whole album and reset a lot of the conversation that had been going on.

evermore: gold rush because gold was a consistent metaphor we had all ascribed to karlie up until then so it was incredibly wild to have this song happen in the first place, and the song matches up with the beat of runway walking, even the vsfs 2014 opening runway where karlie is a golden angel

(Big Red Machine special mention): Renegade because i see it as a song from karlie’s perspective, about when karlie was there for taylor during her “darkest night” and i find that very touching

Midnights: Karma because it embodies karlie as this unstoppable force that is on taylor’s side and i love that depiction. also, the song name sounds like karlie, taylor arguably sings “karma is my girlfriend” and that was so amazing to pick up on upon the first listen

The Tortured Poets Department: imgonnagetyouback because it ties together so many kaylor themes related to karlie attending eras tour, in particular the bridge (the criminality of “even if it’s handcuffed im leaving here with you” the forgiveness theming of “push the reset button we’re becoming something new” and “bygones will be bygone”the board game theming of “we lost all the pieces but still wanna play the game” the reveal of the truth “told my friends i hate you but i love you just the same” etc) and it gives me an adrenaline kick to listen to it, and gets me nostalgic for attending the 8/3 show, so close to when she attended.

if anyone reading has another favorite to add please add in the comments! i truly have so many that i didn’t cover and i bet you all do too 🫶🫶

[blue-jisungs]

RADIO SILENCE ,, chap 08 — after all this time

synopsis. hwang y/n and park sunghoon do not like each other. end of story. god knows why (well actually, niki is the only one who knows why). but when they’re put as co-hosts on a radio show, they’re bound to bond.

˗ˏˋ꒰ 🎙️ ꒱ main masterlist

sunghoon was fiddling with his fingers, zoned out, eyes focused on you. his heart was beating unnaturally fast and he quite certainly didn’t like that.

you were talking to producer choi who was the host today hence you had a comeback. and you were truly glowing.

“so, y/n, what’s your favourite track on the album?” he asked. you let out a cute giggle and glanced at sunghoon, who was suspiciously quiet.

“‘radio silence’, definitely. although i cannot say, i do like the song that featured hwang minhyun” you grinned.

“oh right! you got a collab finally, didn’t you? how did it go?” producer choi asked, also noticing sunghoon’s weird state.

“yeah! it was truly something… in one word? chaotic. i think if we were to sing it live… no idea if it would work out” you scoffed and nudged sunghoon “what about you? which song do you like the most from my album?”

“ah… ‘radio silence’ as well” he said shyly and your smile dropped slightly. sunghoon nodded politely, scratching his neck “it’s really emotional, i like it”

“i like the title song though. it’s so catchy and refreshing! are you going to be back in vogue?” producer choi chimed in upon seeing how you looked at sunghoon.

“ah… maybe? who knows? we’ll see!” you shrugged and wiggled your brows.

“is there anything you want to add before we play something?” producer choi asked. sunghoon suddenly took a deep breath and forced a smile.

“well… thank you so much. my fans, my friends. for believing in me and being there for me. love you!” you waved and sunghoon tapped the desk, looking at the music program. your song was next but he still has too–

you watched him suddenly surge out of the room.

“oh” you laughed “but um, continuing: i want you to have fun with this comeback, just feel the songs and vibe…”

sunghoon came back with a huge flower bouquet, sending you a warm smile. the mic couldn’t pick up what he was about to say yet, so producer choi took over.

“you’re our host now so we wanted to congratulate you as well!” he said, clapping his hands. you stood up, hands flying to your mouth.

“oh wow… thank you so much! those are…” your voice died in your throat as sunghoon approached you. those were your favourite flowers. not many people knew that– “… beautiful. oh. i’m so flattered!”

sunghoon smiled and handed you the flowers, bowing. you bowed too and then faced producer choi and bowed again. sitting down with the flowers in your hand, you felt sunghoon’s gaze lingering on you.

“welp, i guess our listeners are dying to hear my voice again. which they will in a second” you grinned and looked at your co-host “we were y/n…”

“…hoon!” he finished, a playful sparkle in his eye. then you heard your song begging to play in the headphones, the sign live going off.

“good job! and y/n, seriously, congratulations!” he smiled and stood up. he left the room, causing you and sunghoon to be left alone.

sunghoon suddenly leaned closer.

“we need to talk”

your eyes widened, throat going dry.

“oh… okay, sure” you smiled softly, standing up. waving to the camera, you left. sunghoon led you to some random room, probably a janitor storage room. clearing his throat, he switched the light on and closed the door “what is it about?”

“i…” he took a deep sigh. his brown irises were running around nervously, eyes barely landing on you. fiddling with his fingers, he swayed on his feet slowly “i feel like… we need to sort some things out”

you listened, leaning against the desk. luckily the room wasn’t too small, though it was full of brooms and other stuff to keep the building clean.

“i’m sorry for what’ve done”

your eyes snapped up at him, a sudden bitter taste of painful memories making your mouth dry.

“you’re a fast one, aren’t you…” you mumbled sarcastically, crossing your arms on your chest. even though it felt like someone dropped an anvil on it.

“listen… i’m dumb. and a bit arrogant, which you should know by now. and i’m a man so…” he cracked a joke, scanning your reaction. relief washed over him once he noticed the corner of your lip rise in a tiny smirk. your eyes, however, were speaking louder than words; he saw anticipation but also sadness… anxiety. “i wish i could take back time, take back those words and my selfish actions. i was the reason why you were put on a hiatus and–“

“no shit” you grumbled “it’s not even about that, sunghoon. they found out about our relationship and told us either to announce it, which we weren’t ready for or told us that one of us needs to be put on a hiatus. when we proposed that we’d go both, they chose me. this is what fucking hurts. a man always has it better in this industry. and you… you didn’t even stand up for me. you left me there, alone. i was at my lowest and it took you… what, a year? to apologise? to reach out?”

your voice was starting to get a bit louder but not yelling. quite the contrary, you sounded stern and composed yet your eyes were flaring with anger.

“i suffered alone. i couldn’t contact my friends for over three months due to the legal issues. i don’t know what you have told riki but he stopped talking to me, and you know how much i love that kid. all of this right when i was to have a comeback. it was all delayed because… because we were dating and it’s just so fucking frustrating!” you finally snapped, or so he thought, saying loudly the three last words and punctuated it with three steps forward to him. “you broke my heart”

“i know. i know and i’m so, so sorry i’m coming to you just now. it’s dumb but… i listened to ‘radio silence’ and it opened my eyes. i’m so sorry” sunghoon breathed out, afraid that his voice will break. his eyes watered and he quickly wiped them with his sleeve.

you froze. he’s crying. and he… he got the message.

“i think i’m still in love with you” sunghoon whispered and it was too much for him. he felt horrible, both for realising too late and for putting you in this situation in the first place. for leaving you alone, not being there when you were in such a bad state… for…

the boy started crying, trying to muffle his harsh sobs. you stood there, frozen, watching him. sunghoon panically began to wipe the pearly tears that wouldn’t stop falling, his chest moving up and down irregularly.

you let out a shaky breath. then took a deep sigh. sunghoon still loved you. after all this time.

even though your mind was racing with thoughts and somehow anger, you stepped closer to him and hugged him. wrapping his trembling body in your arms, letting him cry it out. sunghoon hugged you back, finding comfort in your embrace. like he used to.

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taglist. @primoppang ,, @laylasbunbunny ,, @slytherinshua ,, @kazmura ,, @nicholasluvbot,, @weird-bookworm ,, @dazzlingligth ,, @w3bqrl ,, @ocean-minho ,, @s-e-s-a-l-e-n-e ,, @eternalgyu ,, @haecien ,, @yenqa ,, @eneiyri ,, @aaasia111 ,, @catecita ,, @jebetwo ,, @rubywonu ,, @jiawji ,, @jeongintwt ,, @seunnimg ,, @isawritesss ,, @splat00z ,, @ilovejeongin007 ,, @sasfransisco ,, @saythenameseventeen178 ,, @hyuzaa ,, @flmtunes

[chronicbeans]

Y'all Ready for my Hazbin Hotel Hot Take?

I have like 3 different hot takes for the Hazbin/Helluva series, but I haven't seen anyone mention this one, yet. You ready?

Hazbin Hotel is a poorly written, but still enjoyable series (so far).

I liked watching the show, don't get me wrong. That's why I said the show is still enjoyable. Just because I think something is poorly written doesn't mean I dislike it. In fact, far from it! I've watched a lot of movies I've thought (or even the majority of the people who watched it thought) was really badly written, but still absolutely LOVED it! So, even if something is not written well, it doesn't mean you should suddenly stop enjoying it altogether. So, I'll go into the reasons why I think it wasn't necessarily written well but still enjoyable to explain what I mean. It starts out with the criticism, then ends with me explaining why I still enjoy it and a small concept.

TW: Abuse, Mental Health, Criticism of Hazbin Hotel (I know very well some of you can go crazy about it), Talking about Valentino

I mainly just think, outside of the rushed pacing, the first season had a lot of serious topics that weren't treated with the proper care needed. Such as Angel's abuse at the hands of Valentino or the Exterminations at the hands of the angels. The story tells us "this is bad", but a lot of audiences will hear that and simply not process HOW BAD it really is supposed to be, a bit like being desensitized without actually being desensitized to the topic. This is why I think the term "show don't tell" is often used when describing this show's flaws. A lot of people don't actually feel the weight of what's happening if just told. As a writer, I can understand how difficult it is to get that balance of showing enough to convey the full impact, but not showing too much as to make the story uncomfortable to read, and I'd imagine it's a lot more complicated in animation where you are actually showing what is happening. It's just that the audience feels it better when showed. While I'm not saying things like Val's abuse towards Angel or a massive group of demons getting annihilated should be shown, there are ways to show things to convey the message that these events are horrible things.

An example I like to use is the original Mulan, where the scene starts as a musical then everything goes quiet when they see the destroyed village. You see the absolute tragedy that happened, know what it implies, and nobody has to say "wow this is bad". We see it on our character's faces, hear it in the silence, and the physical darkening of the area compared to the song just before makes it hit harder. While I understand that Hazbin is a musical, I feel like it doesn't understand that there's a place and a time for a song to say and not show, as well as a place and a time for it to ENHANCE the show don't tell.

I feel this is especially important to know how to balance that with heavy topics like abuse, war, death, etc. because of the aforementioned fact that people don't understand how bad the topic is if they're just told. They feel a detachment towards the subject unless they are one of the people who have been affected by it, and if it's done wrong it can come off as offensive or even mislead people on those topics. In order to get those who don't have those experiences you need to show it in a way that isn't too intense but isn't glossing over it. It's just that Hazbin doesn't do that. While I'm glad that they try, in my opinion, it just doesn't hit it correctly, especially with Angel Dust's abuse.

However, I do love a lot of things about the show. A few of the jokes got me to laugh (this isn't meant to be a backhanded compliment, btw, it's generally hard to get me to laugh even if I find something funny so it's actually a compliment). The art is very pretty, even if I think there's too much red due to my shade blindness. Many of the characters are fun, and even the ones I despise are at least tolerable. Especially Adam! He's an asshole, but he's a fun asshole, in my honest opinion. A character you love to hate. The only real character I kind of think isn't written that well (at least for the role that he plays and the writing surrounding him) is, ironically, Valentino. Aka probably the most hated character of the series so far.

Considering Val's actions being EXTREMELY deplorable, I don't understand why there's these times where they try to make him funny or seem more lighthearted. I did enjoy that time when Niffty tore off his fluff and ran off because it served as a refresher after the intense scene of Angel confronting him, but the other times are odd to me. He seems like a threat only when the writers want him to be a threat, when really, he should be a constant threat considering one of our main characters is constantly in danger of his abuse.

He wouldn't even need much of a personality change, either. His over reactionary personality and slightly erratic behavior can be TERRIFYING if the show treated it that way. Instead, while I was watching it seemed like it was treated as more of a joke. While being over reactive isn't something that makes you a bad person, being a bad person that is over reactive can be terrifying. As someone who has met a person like that, it feels like walking on eggshells and not knowing what you should say, what you should do to calm them down, and even if you should calm them or leave them be to calm on their own. Imagine if they had that scene where Vox checks on Val, but instead of Vox being extremely calm and composed, he's visibly trying to stay calm but is internally worried. It'd show that, while the other two Vees are condoning his actions and letting them stay, even they aren't sure if they're safe from his violent temper. It'd help imply just how bad his abusive actions are towards his workers and Angel if even his two colleagues - his EQUALS - don't feel completely safe.

Anyways, that was my rant/hot take. The show doesn't have to be exactly how I want it for me to like it. Hell, I LOVE it for what it's trying to do. I just have my own critiques on how some things are handled, and the hope that it'll keep striving to attempt to handle those topics better.

[barrenclan]

for the next music post: bird song by f+tm is a good one for rainhaze killing asphodelpaw (& then, depending on how the rest of the story goes, him subsequently being haunted by his actions)

Ahh, Bird Song is such a classic. You know the visual I can imagine for this; Rainhaze speaking to himself/his conscience/previous self as the "bird", as he wanders to BarrenClan territory. And then in the part of the song where he kills the "bird", it cuts to him having killed Asphodelpaw.

"Well I didn't tell anyone, but a bird flew by Saw what I'd done he set up a nest outside, And he sang about what I'd become He sang so loud, sang so clear I was afraid all the neighbours would hear, So I invited him in, just to reason with him I promised I wouldn't do it again"

"I opened my mouth to scream and shout Waved my arms and flapped about But I couldn't scream I couldn't shout, The song was coming from my mouth"

Yeah, Rainhaze. Fuck McCafferty though.

"And I know that I'm not a nice guy I hurt people's feelings, I guess I should die But my body says hurt myself, and my heart says to harm myself"

"How did I get like this? So afraid of everything"

Wow, yeah, it really is. Look at these lyrics.

"We're machines that breathe and weep And look really good Trained to kill"

"Send me back in time And I'll bring us back in line Just tell me whose mother I have to kill" <- ermmm. well.

"And I've replaced my heart With metal parts And I'm working out just fine But I can't get it to start"

Lmao? Okay YouTube thanks

JULIE AND THE PHANTOMS MENTIONED!! This AU idea is actually along the lines of my original draft of the script; originally Asphodelpaw and Pinepaw wouldn't have a last moment of connection before she was murdered, so he'd be more torn about her death. But yeah, wailing, I love this song. Watch this show.

"No time for goodbyes Didn't get to apologize Pieces of a clock that lies broken"

"If you could only know I never let you go And the words I most regret Are the ones I never meant to leave Unsaid Emily"

Another classic! I think I've been suggested this one before, but it fits very well of course. Cormorantpaw specifically I can imagine singing it; goes well with Issue 33.

"All day I've been wondering what is inside of me Who can I blame for it? I say it runs in the family"

"But business is business and business runs in the family We tend to bruise easily, mad in the blood I'm telling you 'cause I just want you to know me"

Wilbur Soot is honestly a pretty good voiceclaim for Rainhaze.

"Under the weight of a broken nose It's not that simple, but he won't seem to notice There must be more to this"

"Would do something, if it wasn't all so effortful 'Cause I'm so high, my brain can't even look at the fall And when you've reached the top there's nowhere else to go but-"

I hadn't, but I do like it!

"I'm alive and I can see The water is foul and it's hard to breathe There's lead in the water, there's lead in the water There's lead in the water, and you think that I'm fine I'm stained by the water and only the water I'm drained by the water, are you losing your mind? Dead in the water, dead in the water"

No, I haven't heard of this one before! But you're right, it's very fitting! Also, psh, no one has ever animated before you start animating. If you want to, go for it. I'd certainly be interested!

"Oh, in Pine Point, where I was born The roads are all overgrown And no one's lived there for years The town was never the same The mine was closed in '88 And everyone disappeared"

"Oh, in Pine Point It's deteriorating And your memory started fading"