#like i saw it at 14 and only saw the movie so i didn’t pick up on that at all until a few years later

[jewishrizahawkeye]

love watching the discourse surrounding eddie raymond’s cabaret performance online. people saying that the performance should make you uncomfortable is valid and other people saying those people are acting to pretentious over them knowing the plays about the fall of berlin into fascism is just so funny. like please i love it

[discotitsposts]

meant to be

Spencer trying and failing to flirt with you because you are oblivious to his attempts.

spencer reid x reader

i picture this as later seasons spencer maybe sometime around 12-14?

some mature themes mentions of sex at the end so 18+

writing this because i saw something about people who are bad at flirting and that’s literally me. (i hope ppl get the reference w the nickname)

Spencer had tried every day to get your attention romantically. It didn’t work. Nothing did. You were so oblivious to all of his flirting attempts. He figured maybe you had trouble understanding so he worked harder to make you think of him as more than a friend. He tried everything his genius brain could come up with.

He even made up a nickname for you, Bean, because you always had a coffee in your hand, and because he was taller than you.

Today you were getting coffee with him as usual. At your favorite coffee shop and library. You didn’t work at the BAU so you would eventually have to go to your own job so Spencer decided to try again.

Since you lived in the same building, neighbors in the same hall, he picked you up every morning. Drove you to get coffee and you each picked a book for each other and then he drove you to work.

He knocks on your door awaiting anxiously. You come out in your outfit, just a t shirt and jeans. you didn’t have a dress code at your job, you were an author and usually went into a nice office that the publishing company provided to write since you had a hard time focusing in your apartment. Too many distractions.

In Spencer’s car you make small talk as he tries to think of a way to flirt with you. Normally he’d call Morgan but his son was a toddler now so he was busy. He gets so lost in his head he doesn’t realize he just ran a stop sign on accident and almost hit someone.

He hears you yell “Spencer what the fuck!” and slams the brakes. The other car honks and his heart is pounding in his brain. He pulls to the side of the road and stops.

“Spencer. Breathe. It’s ok.” You worry tracing your face at the sight of his extremely fast breathing and you rub his back reassuringly.

“Holy shit.” He barely chokes out. His face is beet red and he looks like he’s about to have a panic attack.

“Switch.” You tell him. He looks at you and feels comforted immediately by your face. “Let’s go, switch.” You get out of the car and switch sides.

‘So much for flirting’ he thinks. Then it hits him. When he picks your book for the day, he’ll give you a romantic story. Something that says ‘I really like you but I’m an idiot so I don’t know how to tell you but i’m not actually an idiot because im technically a genius but my fucked up life has ruined romance for me but i’d love to try it with you if you are okay with that.’

When you take over driving you don’t talk. You just focus on the road. You had even turned the music off. He hopes you’re not upset with him. That thought quickly dissipates when you pull into the parking lot and your face is beaming. You both race to the entrance and he gets there first and opens the door for you. You stick your tongue out at him and he smirks.

You order your usual drinks and he gets himself a breakfast bagel and you get a croissant. He puts the food at a table and you both get up to grab each other a book. You had yours picked since last night, The Godfather. It’s only a little over 400 pages so he’ll probably finish it by lunch time but at least it will be fun for him since it will make him think of you. At least you hope it does.

You have a habit of making funny commentary during movie nights. When you watched ‘The Godfather��� trilogy with Spencer he had laughed so hard he cried.

Meanwhile Spencer is searching rows of books looking for the right one. He moves to poetry but nothing feels right. He feels slightly frustrated so he moves back to classics and picks ‘A Little Princess’ instead. A favorite of yours you had read in elementary school. Not romantic but shows he knows you well.

When he makes his way back to the register to check the book out, you’re already seated munching your croissant. He makes his way to you and hides the book behind his back. You discreetly pull yours out of your bag and hide it the same way.

“1,2,3!” You both count at the same time and then reveal your books. Spencer cracks up when he sees the book you had picked. He had read this before but he enjoyed it because it reminded him of you. You both eat and finish your coffees. You look at each other.

“More?” Spencer asks.

“Obviously.” You answer. You both stand up and order more coffee.

Back in Spencer’s car you open the book and start reading. He’s about to put the key in the ignition when sudden confidence hits him. He doesn’t know if it’s the caffeine but he doesn’t care. He should kiss you right now. He stares at you until you look up.

“You’re going to be late for work if you don’t start that engine up soon Mr. Chauffeur.” You tease him.

He leans closer and puckers his lips slightly. He’s so filled with lust he just can’t wait anymore.

You look at him strangely. Was he trying to kiss you right now? Probably not. Truth was you were always so filled with doubt whenever you liked someone. Especially Spencer. He was just too handsome and sweet and perfect.

He leans in even closer to you and tilts his head. You, however, had gone back to your book and weren’t even looking at him.

“Does this make you uncomfortable” Spencer leans in closer. He closes his eyes and you lean down to reach for something from your bag. He doesn’t feel your soft lips on his and thinks he may have missed your face. He opens his eyes.

“Everything does. I have anxiety Spencer. All the time anywhere day and night. ” You reply while eating a yogurt you had found in your tote.

Spencer pulls away and smacks his forehead. He starts the car and drops you at your work and drives to the BAU feeling defeated. What would it take for you to realize how bad he wants you.

That night he decides to drop by your apartment. You had gotten a ride home from work by a friend tonight. He opens his door and walks the short distance to yours.

When his hand knocks on your door he feels nervous. You open the door and greet him.

“Hi!” You cheer.

“Hey, I was gonna order a pizza. You want?” He lies. He actually wasn’t the biggest fan of pizza. He didn’t eat it too often but it was your favorite food so why not.

“That would be great. I’m starving.” You clutch your belly dramatically. Which makes Spencer laugh.

He picks up the phone, “What would you like on the pizza m’lady.”

You tap your chin and think. “Sausage.” You reply. Spencer thinks of a way to flirt. Kind of.

“How much sausage would you like?” He asks smirking.

“Uhh, 5? I don’t know dude. The normal amount that goes on a pizza?” You answer sarcastically, going to your dvd rack to pick a movie. Spencer sighs. He calls and places the order and helps you pick a movie.

“How about ‘How To Be A Serial Killer?’ That’s a good one. I love Matthew Gray Gubler in this one so much.” You fan girl a little.

“Who the fuck is Matthew Gray Gubler? Also, no, not with my line of work. I need a break from that.” Spencer asks with a hint of jealousy in his voice. You clasp your hand over your heart dramatically.

“Ok, fine. how about a Disney Classic? Sleeping Beauty is my favorite.” You ask. Spencer nods. You put the movie on and grab two root beers from your fridge. Spencer thanks you when you hand him one and you lay a big fluffy blanket over you both. Not far into the movie the pizza arrives and you cheers Spencer with your pizza slice.

After you both eat and are full the movie is still on. You’re starting to feel sleepier by the second. Spencer offers you to lay with him and you take him up on it. He’s basically a giant teddy bear. He’s so warm and comfortable.

“I’ve got a real life sleeping beauty right here.” He whispers to you. You smile with your eyes closed. Too sleepy to open. He gets out from under you, to your dismay. He cleans up the trash from eating. He even washes some dishes you had left sitting. When he comes back, you’re still half awake. He sees you sneak an eye open to look at him and your smile after.

“It seems there’s a fair maiden who has fallen asleep. However can we wake her? What if she sleeps for a hundred years?!” He exclaims. You start giggling softly. He leans closer to observe you.

“I don’t believe it! She’s laughing in her sleep! Must be quite a funny dream. Wonder what it is. Only one way to find out.” He gently leans down and kisses your lips softly. This action puts you in shock and you’re blushing. He starts to pull away because doubts fill his mind. You grab his hair and pull him back in.

You both pull back and he starts to ask you,

“Were you ok with that?”

You cut him off, “Yes.” Then you rip your shirt off. Spencer’s in shock. He follows your lead and starts undressing. He picks you up and carries you to your bedroom. The kiss you’re sharing is deepening by the second.

“Fuck why is it so hot in here.” You complain.

“I can think of a few reasons.” Spencer had been kissing you on your neck sucking the skin softly. He lays you back on the bed. He makes you comfortable. He goes down on you and then fucks you like you’ve never been fucked before.

The next morning you woke up naked next to him flashes of last night replaying. You couldn’t believe it. Spencer was so passionate! You didn’t even imagine he liked you like that.

He groans next to you and turns over. You get up and put on some coffee. When you come back into the bedroom he’s awake and looking for you.

“Hey, coffee’s ready.” You lean over and kiss him. He groans too tired to give an answer. He pulls you into the bed and holds you longer.

With him, this felt so easy and realistic.

Then you realize something.

This was meant to be.

the end ♡

to anyone who read this far: hope u enjoyed reading!! please let me know if u enjoyed! xoxo

[madridfangirl]

Star crossed lovers (Jude Bellingham fic)

Chapter 14

(Series Link)

Jude * female reader. Mature Language in parts.

Synopsis: A chance encounter in a tiny Madrid cafe with the newest superstar of her fav club. The two couldn't be more different, yet both feel the pull toward the other. Would this girl be the one he finally falls for? Or would life come in the way of these star-crossed lovers?

....................................................

‘The things I do for lov…’

Ananya froze. Suddenly very alert. While Jude was still lost in her scent.

She shut her eyes, firmly. Burying her head in the sand like as ostrich. As if that would make the last few seconds not real. As if she could go back in time & change what she nearly said.

It couldn’t be, could it?

Surely it was a slip. Surely she couldn’t have meant to say THAT word. How could she, when they hadn’t even been together for two months yet? Last time it had taken her six months to come NEAR this feeling. It was too soon. WAY TOO SOON.

From the way Jude was happily sighing behind her, babbling something incoherent as his lips traced the back of her neck, she could tell he hadn’t heard any of it. Some respite, at least.

But the numbness refused to leave her body. She was still, like a statue. Only moving due to Jude’s movements behind her. 

After a few moments, he noticed it too, and tried to turn her around. But she resisted.

‘Dove?’

The fondness and care in his voice was too much to bear. His proximity was too much to bear.  The warmth of his touch, his breath on the back of her neck were all too much to bear. She suddenly wanted to bolt out of the room but that would alarm Jude in a thousand different ways. So she took the easy way out.

‘Feeling a bit uneasy. Be back in a bit.’

She removed his arm from around her and headed straight to the washroom, keeping her back to him throughout. Not letting him see her face.

He sensed something was off but attributed it to exhaustion, and let her have a few moments in peace.

Jude picked up his phone, and saw a few messages from his teammates checking in on him. Of course the word would have spread, since he left in a rush and said it was an emergency. He’ll have to come up with a story on the way back, something that doesn’t invite too many questions.

Ananya sat down on the covered toilet seat and buried her head in her hands. Her heart was going at a million miles per second, practically threatening to burst out of her chest.

She knew what it was like to be in love. She had been in love before. But last time, it was gradual. She could tell the signs, the milestones along the way. They had met in college, were classmates, then friends, then more than friends and then ultimately fell in love. Everyone around them saw where it was going from very early on, but the two of them had taken their time. Not rushing into anything. Letting feelings develop & grow over time. Letting destiny take its course. And when the confession happened, it felt like it was a long time coming. Like it was always meant to be this way. 

Was this, with Jude……….like that in any way?

Ananya started pacing around the small space, trying to analyse her feelings. Trying to logically break it down.

Her brain was leaning towards a no. 

They had known each other for only two months. Too short a time to develop such strong feelings. They hadn’t spoken about many crucial things which would be a core part of life if they actually do decide to…..be together like that. To think of a future like that. At the end of the day, falling in love was also a conscious decision, right? Some part of your brain allows you to take that step at some point along the way. The head over heels stuff was only for the movies. Real life didn’t work that way. Actions have consequences in real life, with real people involved, who can get hurt in unimaginable ways due to this torturous feeling. So yes, it was a conscious decision. Had to be, right?

And she didn’t remember making that decision in this case. Her brain hadn’t given her that signal that now the waters have been tested enough, and it was okay to take this massive leap of faith where she could either fly or fall face first in a deep, treacherous valley. So how could this be love? How could she possibly feel that way for him?

Her heart had a mind of its own though.

No logic stood a chance when it came to matters of the heart. Unfortunately, she knew that all too well. Had first hand experience of it. 

If it wasn’t love, why did she yearn to comfort him always? Why did his pain physically affect her senses? Why did his smile uplift her spirits? Why did she feel this gravitational pull towards him? Wanting to be in his arms - his safe, warm, steady embrace? Why did a single message / call from him completely change the way her day was going otherwise? Why was she always looking for ways (even cutting corners sometimes) to be able to spend more time with him? Why did she secretly beam with pride every time he was on the pitch? Why was his individual performance starting to become as big a thing she stressed over as the overall result for her favourite club? 

Her brain had no answer to all this. Like she knew it wouldn’t. 

But she also remembered what happened the last time her heart had overruled her brain so decisively. When she was falling for her ex. At that time, they seemed poles apart. But now, in comparison to her & Jude, they were the perfect match.

Her heart had won. And it led to PAIN. Sheer, absolute, heartbreaking pain. The naiveté of first love, of assuming this would be it, the joy of finding the boy of your dreams, the realisation that you never wanted to be close to any other like this. Because how could anyone else make you feel this way? It seemed impossible.

All for that boy to promise the moon and then walk away at the first sign of trouble. Saying it’s too hard. That they were too different. That they wanted different things from life. No relationship could ever survive when only one person was fighting for it. Hers didn’t either.

And here she was, on the precipice of that free-fall again.

With a boy who had absolutely no idea what all she was thinking right now. Who’d probably freak the fuck out if he heard what she nearly said. Who had NEVER BEEN IN LOVE BEFORE. Who didn’t even know what that feeling entailed, and what came after it. Because falling in love was still easier, but staying in love was the harder part. Shit gets real then. 

Jude had often said that they were young and this was their time to have fun. She knew he didn’t believe in thinking 5 steps ahead in his personal life, like she did. He was more a ‘go with the flow’ kinda guy, not an over thinker. 

And they were having fun, a lot of fun, she couldn’t deny. But what if that’s all he wanted? What if this was the definition of dating for him? What if this was it? 

His life revolved around football right now. His family knew it, his friends knew it, and they supported him in their own ways. And hers should revolve around her career too - that’s the reason she had moved half way across the world to not miss this amazing job opportunity. 

Being in love would mean taking important life decisions together. At least that was her definition of it. No, they weren’t ready for that. Far from it. And she couldn’t dump the complex twisted inner workings of her mind on him right now. They needed time, a lot of time, before they could get there. If they even wanted to get there. Yes, this was the right way. To wait, and not rush into anything. To not let her idiotic heart ruin this with such slips. She had to be more careful. She will be more careful. She won’t falter like this again, she couldn’t. 

With a fresh resolve, she washed her face, finally looked at her own self in the mirror (she was avoiding that so far for some reason, as if she would herself call her own bluff), cleaned up a bit, took a deep breath before unlocking the door.

Jude was sitting up against the headboard, waiting for her to come out. It had been a while. He wanted to give her space but was starting to wonder if something was up.

His eyes followed her closely as she picked up her phone from her desk and came back to bed. Keeping her back to him throughout.

He checked the time; precisely 30 mins before he absolutely had to leave. 

But a weird feeling engulfed him, an unpleasant feeling. A sinking feeling. Why hadn’t she said anything? Why hadn’t she looked at him?

‘Ananya?’

His voice was low, soft. Almost tentative. Jude laid on his side, watching her back. He wanted to reach out, to hug her from behind, but something stopped him.

‘Hmmm.’

‘All ok?’

‘Yeah.’

Her voice gave him zero confidence. He didn’t want to leave like this. And for the life of him he couldn’t figure what had suddenly happened to her. They were absolutely fine just a while back. Happily engaging in pillow-talk. And then poof!

Was she PMSing? He had heard mood swings were a part of it. Would she be pissed if he asked her that? Probably. Best to stay away from this topic.

But he hated this distance and silence between them. He reached for her upper arm, stroking it tentatively.

‘Is it me? Have I done something?’

Had he gone overboard today by pushing that guy’s topic? Did his immaturity / impulsiveness become too much for her? 

The little tremor in his voice made her turn around immediately. Guilt hit her in loads, again. First the Arjun thing and now this. He shouldn’t be dealing with this stuff right before a crucial match, definitely not because of her.

Instinct took over, and she forgot all else, pulling his face close and placing a soothing kiss to his lips.

‘I’m just a little tired, yeah? Been a long day. Tough day.’

He nodded earnestly, lapping up every word.

‘I get it. I do.’

‘I know. Come here, baby.’

He laid half on top of her. Face tucked into her neck and chest. One arm over her waist. One leg over her legs. As she stroked his shoulder, arm and back gently. 

‘Just forget everything and focus on the match, yeah? Score for me tomorrow.’

‘Will you watch me?’

‘Obviously.’

They stayed hugging like that for 5 mins. Quiet. Drawing comfort from each others’ touch.

Suddenly, a thought hit Jude.

‘Jobe’s gonna be here in a few days.’

‘Oh nice.’

‘Yeah, his Christmas break has started.’

‘Am sure you’d love having him with you.’

‘Yeah, really looking forward to it.’

Silence again. Then Jude decided it was stupid to beat around the bush. He leaned up on his elbow, looking down at her.

‘Wanna meet him?’

‘I…uhh….are you sure?’

‘Yeah. He knows about us. You’d like him. He’d like you. I know it already.’

Her head started to spin. Was it too soon to meet his family?

But Jobe was more like Jude’s best friend.

Rubbish. He was still family. Probably the closest bond of Jude’s. What if he doesn’t like her? She hardly knew anything about him, other than the titbits Jude had told her. What would she even talk to him about? Did he know much about her? Had Jude spoken to him about her? 

Why was it bothering her like this? It’s shouldn’t matter so much, right? Didn’t she just decide to consciously take things slow?

‘Earth to Ananya. Come back.’

‘I….have you asked him? Does he want to meet me?’

‘Not yet. Why wouldn’t he?’

Ananya could think of a zillion reasons. 

The simplicity of Jude’s thoughts were both his strength and also a blind spot sometimes. But this was Jude - who always believed life would find a way. It wouldn’t hurt to borrow that child-like optimism maybe, at least in this one case.

‘Ok.’

‘Ok?’

‘Yeah let’s do it. I mean, if he wants to, of course. Don’t wanna impose on your time together.’

‘You know the amount of mind space you’d unlock if you stop overworking that pretty brain of yours?’

‘Brains can’t be pretty.’

‘So we are ignoring the point?’

‘It’s easier said than done, Jude.’

What did he know about chronic overthinking? Only those who were plagued by it knew what it felt like. Others should just zip it and keep their suggestions to themselves. 

Jude felt her mood shift again. Almost fully convinced she was PMSing. Otherwise he couldn’t make sense of the last 30 mins.

His alarm buzzed then, and Ananya put her fingers in her ears to protect them from the obnoxiously horrid & loud sound.

It was time to leave. No more dilly-dallying.

‘I’ll check with him & then let’s plan something?’

‘Cool.’

‘We’re good, yeah?’

‘Yeah.’

‘So I’d get my agreed upon special reward if I score tomorrow?’

‘If you don’t manage to piss me off somehow, then yeah.’

He left soon after, after a quick kiss, and Ananya just shut her eyes, shut out the world (her brain included) and allowed sleep to numb her restless thoughts.

Jude didn’t score the next day, but his assist was spectacular, and the team won. One more league match was left before the Christmas break; everyone wanted to leave on a high.

They spoke briefly after the match, and Jude told her the plan was a go. 

It was happening. She was going to meet his brother on Friday. The person who knew Jude the best. In two days. 

But god showed some mercy and she was so caught up in work the next few days that this somehow went on a back burner.

Until Friday night, when she was in the car with Agnes, on the way to Jude’s place.

She was supposed to reach by 7 pm but the conference had run over. It was already 8:30.  So much for first impressions. Universe never stopped conspiring against her after all.

When Jude answered the door, it was 8:45. She started blurting out her apologies, without even greeting him.

He didn’t hear a word, eyes too focused on the navy blue dress once she took off her coat. The fitted knee length dress, black stockings, black heels, hair partly tied back, glossy lips.

The look was blowing his mind. And he suddenly wished Jobe was not in the house with them right now. 

Because now he won’t be able to do what that attire actually deserved. But no force in the world would stop him from getting a quick taste. Not even her explicit exhaustive warnings of keeping his hands to himself in front of Jobe.

Jude cut her off mid-sentence when he dove in for a kiss, grabbing the side of her face. His other hand slid down to cup her butt, their usual make-out routine. Ananya froze, trying to look around with her peripheral vision.

Before she could push him away, Jude broke the kiss and shrugged at her. As if to say it was her fault somehow. But now was not the time to put him in line, she’ll have to do that later. With one final stern look, which he pointedly avoided, they walked into the living room, hand in hand.

His brother was lounging on the couch, and stood up to greet her.

Neither Ananya nor Jobe knew what an ideal greeting would be in this setting - a casual side hug or a nod or a handshake? So they ended up doing a silly little wave to each other while muttering a quick ‘hey.’

Jude of course was oblivious to the awkwardness, as he went to fetch the dinner tray-table. His chef had truly gone over-board today when Jude said it’s gonna be a special intimate dinner, preparing a proper 3 course meal. 

Both Ananya and Jobe helped set the dining table as Jude went to fetch the wine. Neither had much faith in Jude’s abilities to manage single-handedly. 

‘Sorry you had to wait. I know you guys have your dinner early. You should have started, really.’

It was something she was still getting used to with Jude. He preferred to have dinner done by 8 usually, a healthy habit for athletes.

‘No it’s fine. Don’t worry about it.’

‘Thanks. How was the amusement park yesterday?’

The brothers had visited a famous Disney park in Madrid, which had caused quite a stir, and the authorities nearly had to shut the place down.

Jobe chuckled, shaking his head in amusement.

‘Started out fun, but then got a bit mad. Like I knew Jude was popular here but man, this much?’

‘And this soon.’

‘Yeah, exactly. They had to call bouncers to escort us. Bit nuts, that.’

‘I’d say get used to it. Fans have really taken to him. Never seen so much love for any player here in 5-6 months, not since Ronaldo of course. We are a tough fanbase but he has truly won us over at rocket speed.’

‘Oh, you’re a Madrid fan?’

Jude chose that moment to emerge with her favourite bottle of wine, and answered for her.

‘Lifelong. Diehard. Like us for Birmingham.’

‘Really? That’s interesting.’

Ananya wondered what would be running through Jobe’s mind with this piece of information. Would he take her for a fan stalker? She couldn’t blame him for that line of thought - it would be a fair question to ask. Something that Jude had never bothered to ask.

But no question came, and she didn’t want to venture a clarification on her own.

Instead, a different question came.

‘So, when he fucks up on the pitch, do you give him stick as a fan or his girlfriend?’

‘I don’t fuck up.’

Both Jobe and Ananya ignored that, not even bothering to look at him.

‘Who says I give him stick?’

‘He does.’

As if the words weren’t enough, Jobe also pointed his fork at Jude.

Ananya turned sharply towards her uncomfortable boyfriend, cocking her head to the side.

‘Honesty. That’s what I meant.’

‘Did not.’

Jobe murmured while mock-coughing, bursting into a giggle and Ananya eventually joined him, chuckling at Jude’s misery.

It broke the ice between the two, but the cost was Jude’s annoyance. After a few moments, Ananya reached out to gently stroke his arm.

‘It’s fine. I do actually give him a hard time when he isn’t himself on the pitch.’

‘Good on you.’

Jobe nodded, and the conversation started flowing easily from thereon.

Ananya asked about how his season was going, and the boy’s eyes lit up. Passion for football was common between the brothers. As was their gratitude to be able to play professionally at big clubs. He opened up even more, telling her about the team and standings so far. Jude added titbits in the middle, as to how Jobe was more a striker like their dad, his pride for his baby brother all too visible in his eyes. 

Theirs was a special special bond - she could gather that in 20 mins with them. Denise & Mark should write parenting books. She’d tell them that when she……..no, let’s not go there.

Jobe was curious about her work, having heard a few details from Jude. He listened with rapt attention when she described (at a very surface level, in simple terms) some of the recent investment banking mandates she was working on.

‘So you’re smart smart then.’

‘Told ya.’

Jude chimed in again, as she looked between the two sheepishly.

‘Went to a fancy university I’m guessing?’

‘Yup - the best in India, right?’

Both sets of eyes turned on her, the praise making her a tad uncomfortable. 

‘Yeah, I mean, it’s supposed to be…yeah. Not a big deal really.’

She muttered under her breath, but it didn’t seem to register with them.

‘Also working on her Stanford MBA application.’

‘Cool.’

A few moments of silence then, and she thought they had moved on from the subject, thankfully. 

‘So what do you two talk about then?’

Jobe blurted out, smirking. The implication all too obvious. Ananya’s instinct was to laugh at the joke (the timing really made it funny) but she also wanted to come to Jude’s defence. 

Meanwhile, Jude threw a napkin at Jobe, completely unaffected by the banter, returning his brother’s playfulness.

Ananya reached out for Jude’s hand, squeezing it lightly.

‘Football. We started with football, and moving to Madrid.’

‘And bad Spanish.’

‘Yeah, that too.’

They smiled at each other fondly, reminiscing their first meeting in that sweet little cafe, and Jude leaned in to place an affectionate kiss on her cheek. Jobe leaned back in his chair, observing the two, but mostly his brother.

‘And then he blackmailed me with my love for RM.’

‘Guilty as charged.’

Jude raised his hand all too dramatically, as he proceeded to narrate the Clasico & Zidane story.

It was less than 2 months ago, but somehow felt like they had known each other for a lot longer. 

The evening went by pleasantly, with good food, good company and good conversation.

When they were having dessert (Jobe & Ananya, coz Jude still had a match left before the break so he had like 2 bites of the pudding), Ananya asked what she thought was a harmless question.

‘So, anyone special in your life?’

Jobe stilled, unsure how to answer that, and Jude looked down, smiling to himself.

She again looked between the two brothers, trying to decipher this unspoken language, and wondering why it was such a complicated question.

Then, an unpleasant thought hit her. What if the brothers had more aspects in common, like their approach to women? What if Jobe was how Jude used to be (before he met her)?

But the boy was 18, EIGHTEEN, for crying out loud. 

Though Jude was like that at 18 too. She had never gone into the specifics of his earlier life but had gathered enough to know it had been like that from 16-17, since his meteoric rise to fame.

She secretly hoped it wasn’t true for Jobe, who she saw more as a kid, as Jude’s baby brother. Jude would know of course, she could ask him later but she really didn’t want this piece of information.

Damnit, why did she have to bring up this topic and make things uncomfortable? The boy would think she’s nosy, like many others who must ask him such invasive personal questions. She shouldn’t have assumed it was a simple question; nothing was simple with these boys.

‘I’m sorry…..’

‘It’s complicated…..’

Both spoke at the same time. 

Ananya quickly took control of the situation, desperate to put this behind them.

‘Conversation for another time, yeah?’

‘Yup.’

Then she gave an irritated side-eye to Jude, who was still smiling to himself and hadn’t offered to help her or break the awkwardness in any way. Far too amused for her liking.

It was already 10:15 - 90 mins had flown by.

Wine, exhaustion and lack of sleep started to take its toll on her. She yawned, but quickly covered her mouth to not let it show, and started to walk around the living room to regain some energy.

‘Hey you guys were playing FIFA?’

‘Yup - we started when you texted you were gonna be late.’

‘Who won?’

‘Half-time. I’m up 2-0.’

Jude beamed, while sticking out his tongue to Jobe.

‘Please. He cheated, like always.’

‘I know right. He cheated with me too - no way I would have lost like that otherwise.’

‘Don’t wanna say sore losers but…..’

Jude shrugged. And the other two stared at him, thoroughly unamused.

‘Oh shut it. I’ve beaten you way too many times for you to be so smug.’

‘Ummm no you haven’t.’

‘You even checked the console once when you lost 4-0.’

‘Hit yourself in the head or something? Don’t know what you’re talking about.’

‘Oh you don’t wanna admit in front of her, is it?’

‘There’s nothing to admit.’

‘You and me - now. Let’s finish the game.’

‘You’re on. That ok with you, dove?’

‘DOVE?’

‘Just zip it.’

Ananya was seated on the couch, going between the two like a tennis ball, realising she had accidentally opened a pandora’s box. Clearly another thing in common between the brothers - tough competitors, hated losing, especially when it came to any football related stuff.

‘I mean, yeah, fine with me.’

‘Cool.’

They moved in sync and sat on either side of her on the couch. Determined to make the other eat his words. Their large frame making her feel like a minion.

She noticed how they hid their hands from the other, to not let any hint slip by. This was going to be a hard fought war.

‘Gimme a good luck kiss.’

Without waiting for a response, Jude dove in for a quick peck on her lips.

‘That’s not fair.’

‘Yeah? Go get a girlfriend then.’

‘Isn’t it funny how you’ve NEVER said that to me or ANYONE before?’

Jude knew what Jobe was implying, and that he was right. His previous thoughts on relationships was definitely not something he was keen to discuss right now.

‘Just shut it & play, you donut.’

‘How’s donut even an insult? Seriously how do people call you smart & mature & ahead of your age?’

‘Because I AM THAT.’

‘Yeah, so mature yet doesn’t even know how to drive? You’re embarrassing, bro.’

‘BOYS, let’s go back to the game, yeah?’

Ananya was on the verge of bursting into a fit of giggles, multiple times during their (sometimes childish) banter. But somehow managed to keep a straight face.

‘And Jobe, good luck to you too.’

‘Thank you for being fair. Unlike him.’

Jude scoffed at his brother, then looked at Ananya questioningly. She shrugged, mouthing ‘it was the right thing.’

Jude scoffed again, and physically pulled Ananya close to his side. Jobe just shook his head at his childish antics.

An evil thought hit Jude then.

‘Jobe - why don’t you tell her what your fav team was growing up?’

‘Birmingham. Duhh.’

‘I mean, outside of Birmingham, you jerk.’

Jobe went quiet.

‘Ananya - can you guess?’

Jude had no intention of letting this go.

But how was she supposed to guess this?

‘Ummm United? Liverpool?’

‘Nope.’

Jude just looked victorious, while Jobe was avoiding her gaze.

Then it hit her why Jude would be asking her that.

‘NO.’

She turned towards Jobe, feeling betrayed.

Surely not that god-forsaken team. Not Madrid’s most bitter rivals. Not the club Ananya detested with a vengeance.

‘OH YES.’

Jude giggled next to her.

‘It was just for a year or so, like when I was 10 or something.’

Jobe muttered sheepishly, somehow sad about losing her favour. 

‘He even had a jersey. Wanna guess which one?’

‘OH GOD NO.’

‘Hey, that was a gift from my friend.’

‘Coz you loved him so much.’

Ananya just slid even closer to Jude on the couch, as if physically repulsed by the revelation. Jude gave himself a thunderous pat on his back. While Jobe looked at his brother with disgust, which Jude paid no attention to.

‘Like I said, it was just for a year.’

Jobe just left it out there. 

‘It’s fine.’

Ananya recovered from her initial shock, realising it was childish to hold that against him. Or anyone. She was still sticking to Jude though, subconsciously, which he liked very very much.

15 mins into the second half, the score was 2-1. A very tense, intense battle.

But she was struggling to keep her eyes open. It had been a long day, and a super long week. Her head leaned against Jude’s arm and Jude slid down into the couch so she could put her head on his shoulder. Which she gladly did. 

Jobe smiled to himself, not laced with sarcasm this time. He had just never seen his brother so attentive with a girl before. It was a different look on him, a good look, suited him somehow.

Ananya fought hard to keep her eyes open, but 5 mins later she was fully gone. Out like a light on Jude’s shoulder. Both her hands loosely wrapped around his elbow.

Jude paused the game, and Jobe yelled ‘what the fuck’ but shut up immediately when Jude shushed him, looking at Ananya’s sleeping form.

‘I’ll be back.’

Jude whispered softly, and moved carefully to pick her up. She stirred a little with the movement, her head finding its place in the crook of his neck. But his arms were familiar and comfortable.

‘What’s happening?’

She mumbled, half asleep. 

‘Taking you to bed.’

‘Mmmm but the game?’

‘It’s over.’

‘Who won?’

‘Who do you think?’

‘I knew it.’

Jude smiled and placed a kiss on her forehead, while carefully navigating the stairs. Her open hair were blocking his vision but he’d never tie them up willingly. 

He gently placed her on the bed, and she cocooned into her usual sleeping position. Jude tucked her in, but when he started to move away she felt around for his hand.

‘What happened, babe?’

‘You’re not coming in?’

‘Jobe needs a few things. Be back in a bit yeah?’

‘Ok, come soon.’

Jude kissed her forehead and she smiled in contentment, falling back to sleep in next 15 seconds. He turned down the lights and quietly made his way down.

The game somehow didn’t seem as important anymore. 

They finished it off soon. Jude won 3-2. A hard fought win. But he didn’t rub it in Jobe’s face much, given the way he was sulking already. In fact, Jude reached over, grabbed his face and gave him a sweet peck on his cheek. Jobe didn’t pull away from the warmth and comfort that was his brother. A steady presence by his side, always.

‘Hope I didn’t put you in trouble.’

Jobe said as they were wrapping up to go to bed.

‘Nah, its fine. And I got you back for that.’

‘Yeah that was evil.

‘Evil genius you mean.’

‘Just evil.’

‘Meh.’

Jude picked up her bag, her phone and some of his stuff as the brothers went up the stairs.

‘She’s nice.’

Jude turned back and smiled. Jobe smiled even more looking at his silly face.

‘She is, isn’t she?’

‘Who are you and what did you do to my commitment phobic brother?’

‘I honestly don’t know.’

‘It’s crazy though. Like look at you, bro. No one else knows?’

‘Nope.’

‘Didn’t think you had it in you to keep a secret for so long. Especially from mum.’

‘I think she kinda senses though, but just letting me be.’

‘She always lets you be when it comes to girls.’

‘Don’t start complaining now. She lets you be too.’

‘Rubbish. She refuses to acknowledge I’m a grown adult.’

‘Coz you don’t act like one.’

‘Please, like you had to talk to her when I wanted to take that trip this summer.’

‘Coz you are her baby.’

Jude shifted the stuff in his hands to put his arm around Jobe’s neck, pulling his brother into his side.

‘And mine too. You’re everyone’s baby.’

‘Stop calling me a baby.’

‘Then stop having that face.’

They mock wrestled for 30 seconds, before falling into a hug.

As they were about to enter their adjoining rooms, Jobe grabbed Jude’s arm.

‘You look happy, bro.’

‘I am happy.’

‘Then I’m happy for you.’

Jude gave him another kiss to his cheek, and Jobe just smiled affectionately at his overly touchy brother. Jobe was convinced Jude would die if someone tied his hands for a few hours. He couldn’t function without grabbing / hugging / touching the people he was close to.

‘Tell me what she says about me.’

‘Even if it’s bad?’

‘Yeah. But we both know she liked me, despite the fiasco you tried to cause.’

‘We’ll find out.’

‘Have you told her yet?’

‘Told her what?’

‘What you feel about her.’

‘Yeah I always tell her how pretty she is. How I love being around her. How happy she makes me.’

‘What else?’

‘What do you mean?’

‘Is that all you’ve told her?’

‘I mean - I tell her a lot of things. Good things. Seriously what do you mean?’

Jobe just shook his head in amusement. Sometimes he couldn’t understand how he was the younger one and Jobe was supposed to be the older one. His brother could be so thick sometimes, not seeing the obvious, not seeing what Jobe could see in a few hours. It was written all over his lovesick face.

But it was not his place to intervene. Not unless Jude fucks up somehow and needs Jobe to spell it out to him. Hopefully they won’t come to that. 

‘Nothing. Was just saying generally. Night, bro.’

‘Night, BABY.’

‘Such a prick.’

Jobe muttered under his breath as he shut the door in Jude’s face.

Jude retuned to his room, hearing Ananya softly snoring under the covers. He really should record that sometime, because she flatly refused to acknowledge her snoring. It was cute though, so he let the sham continue.

He removed the covers to see if she managed to get up & change. But she hadn’t. Still out like a light. It was a torture not being able to do what he wanted with that dress, and with her. 

But he’ll have to wait till morning. 

The stockings looked super uncomfortable to sleep in so he decided to take those off. He had wondered all night how high they went up her legs. Turned out they went super high, till her upper thighs. He reached for the ends, and slowly pulled them down, one by one, letting his fingers graze her legs in the process. Then he lifted her fitted dress up to her waist, letting her have some flexibility to move her legs while asleep. The whole thing he didn’t wanna take off, not wanting to test his restraint that much.

Morning couldn’t come fast enough.

When she felt the bed dip next to her, she automatically moved towards the source of that movement, into his waiting arms. He pulled her into his side, letting her find a comfortable spot to snuggle into. The sound of her soft snores and the feel of her soft body lulling him to sleep, despite a certain part of his anatomy demanding his attention. He willed that part to calm down, promising it enough attention in the morning. Right now, what he had in his arms was more important. 

Jobe’s words rang in his mind.

Yes, Jude was happy. He was very happy being with her.

...................................................................

There you go.

Honestly, after the events of last few days, I didn't think I'd come back to writing this soon. But your messages brought me back. I love love love reading those. Thank you so much for all the love you shower on Jude & Ananya.

And yes - Ch 15 is clear in my head too :)

[eternal-love]

Austin and Me

“Wife to the ‘king’. Icon to the world. Destined for more.”

Summary: At 18 years old, she fell in love with Austin, at 20 years old, she became his wife, by 22, she was his doll. In which Cynthia’s life changed drastically after falling head over heels with a man that promised her the moon and the stars. She takes us down the memory lane of what could’ve been— the perfect marriage.

Inspired by the book: Elvis and Me by Priscilla Presley.

I do not condemn any of the portrayals I decide to do about certain people, it’s just fanfiction. And it would be divided in parts.

English isn’t my first language so I’m trying my best!

All my life I’ve been going back and forth between México and L.A, it’s been my two homes since I can remember. I was born to a new formed family, my mother met my dad when she already had a baby which was my sister, and since then my parents had two more kids.

I’ve always dreamt of being an actress, ever since my father forced me to watch ‘Viva Las Vegas!’ and ‘King Creole’ with him. For two years, my innocent little me actually believed Elvis was still alive and somehow young, so my dream was to act besides him. I cried hours when my older sister told me Elvis had died decades ago.

My parents always told me that acting was a waste of time and that I wouldn’t make it, not because I wasn’t talented but because out there, there were people that were the same or even more talented than me.

But somehow, I was making it, I had my debut when I was 14 years old and since then I was constantly booked— I adored doing any sort of horror movies, I was a scream queen if you know what I mean.

Once I turned 18 years old, my career was stable, I wasn’t no A-Lister but people at least recognized me, that’s when I was invited to a party, which obviously— my parents didn’t want me to go, they were very strict when it came to permissions, specially when those permissions involved other actors.

“You want us to let you go to a party with other actors?” My mom asked rhetorically as we were setting the table for dinner.

“Absolutely not.” My father interrupted firmly, he was quite strict.

“It’s the weekend, why can’t I go? I’ll be with Elle and her sister.” Hollywood was separated from my family life, my parents didn’t like hearing about actors or nothing, just me and my movies.

“Who are those people, we don’t know them. So no.” My mother was harsh whenever she wanted to, and I get now their distress of being adamant to not let me go to that party, I wish I had listened to them.

I was a girl that was sheltered all her life, so with a sigh and pout I walked to my room, mumbling some cuss words as I knew it would be difficult to convince them.

Surprisingly, Elle and Dakota convinced them, Dakota was older, she had been an adult for quite some time and she knew how Hollywood worked. Freaking out I waited for the day and picked up something from my closet, which now seemed to be all wrong in the eyes of an excited me.

Vintage clothing, go-go boots, Mary Jane heels. I chose something I could work with. I chose a 60s baby blue dress, it only reached mid my thighs so I knew it was good, I grabbed some blue heels too and for my hair I went all out as always, I liked the 60s, my fashion icons were women from that era so I teased my hair to the high heavens, creating a bouffant, my makeup was also heavy around the eyes, black eyeliner and two pairs of falsies, I liked it. I smiled once I saw myself in the mirror, this was me.

The party was surprisingly chill, nothing like the parties I heard about so I was comfortable but I stuck out like a sore thumb, I started to regret going all in on my own style until I saw him. Long blond hair, tall, blue eyes, perfect nose and he was wearing black pants and a white tee. I recognized him immediately, not only was he Hudgens’ ex but he was also the guy that was on one of my favorite movies: Sharpay’s Fabulous Adventure.

We stared at each other for some long minutes, until he finally got closer to me.

“Hey— I know ya. You’re the girl from that movie about the psychotic grandparents.” He said playfully, he pushed his hair back.

“I am. Cynthia.” I extended my hand shyly and he accepted it, shaking it and squeezing it a little bit. I was not a fan of the long hair but he looked handsome enough.

Austin knew my age but there’s no problem on asking, once he knew I was legal enough, he hit it off right away. Austin couldn’t help but eye my whole look which made me think he was judging me.

“I like your dress.” Austin laughed. Feeling embarrassed, I snapped at him.

“I don’t even even know why I decided to wear this stupid dress and stupid hair today!” I snapped harshly, which only made him laugh.

“Little girl has some spunk.” He joked which made me feel even more embarrassed after snapping at him.

“Thanks.” I rolled my eyes playfully. He was 7 years older, for some reason he acted as if he was 20 years my senior.

Since that night, we both started seeing each other. He was my first real boyfriend— I think he liked that, he liked the idea of teaching me what love was, he felt that responsibility.

My parents weren’t at all okay with my relationship, for some reason they said that no relationship with an actor could ever turn right. Once again I wish I had listened to them. He trusted me enough to talk about his late mom with me, when we were in his room after an hour of being intimate or whatever we were doing.

“I wish my mom could’ve met you. She would’ve really liked you.” Austin whispered to me in full confidence, he felt like I was the kind of gal his mother always wanted for him, not someone like Vanessa.

“I wish I could’ve met her too.” I whispered back to him softly, I hated seeing him with tears in his eyes while he talked about his mom because I didn’t know how to comfort him.

“She was my whole world… my mama.” Austin rubbed his eyes and sniffed some tears, I tried cuddling closer to him.

Take my advice here: never date a mama’s boy.

“Why you? Why can’t he go back to dating women older than him? You’re only 18.” My mom nagged me, sometimes I felt bad because not only did she have to worry about me but also for my younger sibling, who were barely even teenagers.

“He’s not like you imagine, mami.” I tried excuses for my relationship, they didn’t even know him that well to judge him.

“Oh really? He’s just another damn white actor. Tu crees que tu papá va a dejar que te cases con alguien cómo Austin? (Do you think your father will allow you to marry someone like Austin?)”

I stayed silent, marriage had not been discussed by Austin and I, we were still in the honeymoon phase of the relationship. I was happy— we were happy. Out first Valentine Day’s was amazing and it made things finally official to everyone. Austin gave me this beautiful locket with his picture inside, great gift.

I think he also liked that things were pretty much private between us, I barely posted him on my Instagram since he barely posted me on his, he liked that I wasn’t loud, bitching and moaning about our relationship.

“Should I marry her?” Austin asked his older sister, Ashley, who was engaged herself.

“I don’t know, Aus. She’s not your type.” Ashley never really liked me, she was weirdly a Trump supporter and well— it’s not like Trump was the most inclusive person.

“She’s exactly my type, she’s not bossy or loud. She’s a brunette— well I would rather her being more natural and drop the jet black hair. But she’s exactly what I want.” Austin said.

“You do whatever you want, just remember that marriage ties you down. Don’t let her cut your wings.”

I was 19 years old— marriage was the last thing on my mind. I was happy with my career and surely acting in more stuff gave me more fame and people started to recognize me more. But every action has its consequences and not wrapping it before tapping it caught up to us.

Have you guys heard of shotgun weddings? Well us was in some way. But the wedding should be another part of this.

So, this is the beginning. Austin will be kind of an asshole just cause his behavior is kinda inspired by Elvis.

[justanothervigalanty]

when I found my love ❤️🖤🤍 (Jason Todd x fem! Reader)

Jason Todd. But you always new him as jay. You were around 10 when you saw a small boy around 11 steeling tires of an old car in the dump. “Hay! You, this is my place back off!” You say to him “ho sorry kid but I need these if I want to eat tonight” the strange boy said picking up the tires. “It will cost you!” You say just as he is about to walk off. “Yeah, ok fair point. What you need kid?” He asked walking towards you. “I can’t give you money though! I have a cigarette?” He said jokingly. “I’m 10 and a half! Plus I don’t want money.” You say with a hand on your hip. “So what do yo-I need something to eat!” You cut him off. “Oh um ok I normally get a sandwich from a soup kitchen but they shut down” he signed putting down a tier and holding out his hand for you to shake. “I’ll share what I can get from this. Ok?” He asked “yes! Oh I’m y/n, y/n L/n” you say “nice to meet you y/n I’m Jason Todd but…around here I go by jay, you should figure out a new name as well it’s safer like idk umm maybe Jen ?” “Ok sure jen and jay sounds cool!”

after around three years you got to know him better and became his closest friend and had maybe kissed once or twice. But then he disappeared. Vanished. Like he was never there. Only a week after Jason’s disappearance you were descoverd and put into foster homes but avenchualy you met the Kent’s. Thay already had a son Conner and he instantly saw you as his baby sister. When you found out that your foster father was the superman you begged him to let you train to become his sidekick along side Conner! And one day he agreed! You were over the moon you may not of had powers but you were one heck of an engineer you had made rocket boots so you could keep up with your brother and dad and not to mention a total badass when it came to hand to hand combat. You were 14 when Bruce Wayne came to your home to ask you to enter the titans who really needed an engineer. “Can I? Please dad please?!” You practically begged him “oh god fine but Bruce if I come round and see her with a fucking stab wound, she comes home!” Clark made it very clear on that but the next thing you know you’re in the elevator with your dad and Bruce by your sides. When you step out every one is in the living room watching some murder mystery movie or something like that. “Everyone I would like you to meet y/n L/n - Kent.” Bruce said as he patted your shoulder. “Ok I got to go be careful n/n” Clark said as he kissed your forehead before leaving. “Hi everyone I’m your new engineer.” You say as everyone comes to meet you expect one a black haired blue eyed teen still sat watching the tv. “Omg hi I’m Rachael finally more teenage girls!” You smile at the girl and everyone comes to say hi and greets you. “Jason.” Bruce calls out “come and introduce yourself”. “No I’m good thanks B much rather be here right now there about to enter crime alley!” Said the boy. You recognise the name Jason and his attitude towards everyone it was all familiar like you knew him from your childhood but didn’t know were. Dick when over and turned of the Tv to get Jason’s attention “what the hell dickhead!?” He said standing up. “Jason we all know you like crime alley but come meet new kid” they both walked over “hi I’m y/n L/n - Kent nice to meet you” you said “Jason Todd good to meet-wait L/n?” He asked you like he had remembered something. “Um yeah that’s me formally L/n now L/n - Kent” you said trying to explain you weren’t born a Kent. “No you’re what…Jen? That’s your nickname right? Jen?” He asked “yes it is- holy shit jay!?” You responded as he pulled you into a hug “I never thought I’d see you again!” Jason said still hugging you “um what is going on?” Asked gar “yeah not trying to reck the mood but do you know echother?” Kory asked “um yeah we dated in crime alley… speaking of which” you said pushing Jason off you. “Where the hell did you go? You just left me i when to bye us some sandwiches and when I get back you we’re gone!” You said still holding his shoulder’s “I know I know Ieft you and I’m so sorry but um can we talk about this somewhere that isn’t in font of my dad?” He said with that stupid voice he used when you argued back a crime alley.

When everyone was getting ready for bed later you Hurd somebody knock on your door you opened it to see Jason “hay babe can we talk?” You pulled him in pining him against the wall. “Don’t you ‘babe’ me, you left that is by far the opposite of being a good boyfriend!”you said you were about to carry on yelling at Jason but just as you opened your mouth he kissed you and you couldn’t help but kiss him back because in all truth no matter how angry you were at him you couldn’t help but miss how he kissed you, how he used to play with your hair after you had nightmares or when he would play a old music tape on his VHS player that you when both dance and sing along to you had missed everything about him and in all honesty so did he.

[timeagainreviews]

The Twist of a Stiletto

Back in the ‘90s there was a very famous TV show. 120 Minutes, don’t act like you don’t know. But for those of you not in the know, “120 Minutes,” was a show on MTV hosted by Matt Pinfield. There were other hosts, but Matt was my guy. Being a showcase of music videos from artists MTV wouldn’t dare play during the day, it was relegated to a late Sunday evening timeslot. Growing up, I never really had a personal relationship with music. It was the stuff in the background of movies. My dad would play CDs of his faves. Kansas, Jethro Tull, Chicago, Led Zepplin, The Beatles. Music could be fun or cool, but I could take it or leave it. That is until April 14, 1996, when 120 Minutes aired Rage Against the Machine’s “Bulls on Parade,” and my 12-year-old brain erupted. A fire was lit inside me that day and Zach de la Rocha was more than happy to pour gasoline on it. I was suddenly, without any kind of warning, in love with music.

The spontaneous combustion of music hits us all differently, but I’m sure my story made you remember yours. How could it not? Music is a part of our lives. We wrap our memories in song. As such, some songs become painful. We then lock those songs in our past where they can’t hurt us, but a passing car with its windows down can bring us back. Music is personal. “The Devil’s Chord,” is a story about our relationship with music. How we hold music inside and when we let it out. It is a celebration of song as well as a lament. While the episode often achieves harmony, it also falls a bit flat. Are you picking up on a theme? Is this striking a chord with you? Ok I’ll stop. Probably.

I’ll get the obvious out of the way first. “The Devil’s Chord,” is precariously close to “The Giggle,” plot-wise. The TARDIS lands. The Doctor finds the world behaving oddly. He discovers it’s all to do with a magical gay American who chews scenery for breakfast. The American sends the Doctor through a themed gauntlet of insanity. The Doctor banishes the American using their own tricks against them. The American disappears with a warning about the next guy. Bish bash bosh. I’m getting that all out of the way ahead of time, because that would be a really boring article to read. But I will say this- if this is the Pantheon’s only gambit, I’ll be disappointed.

Ruby’s explanation of how she discovered the Beatles through her mum’s girlfriend’s vinyl collection was charming and didn’t make me feel old at all. Not to be all “kids these days only care about Tik Tok and Roblox,” but I was fairly certain most young people hate the Beatles. That is, if my Facebook feed is anything to go by. It really shows you just how on the pulse Russell T Davies is these days. Hello fellow kids. Have some trans inclusion while I court problematic people on social media. Kids like Deftones, Russell. Do a Deftones episode. Have the Doctor fight robot pigs with Chico Moreno. (Man, nü metal is having a moment in this article.) My point being, it’s weird to choose The Beatles now.

I harp on a lot about how metatextual Doctor Who can be and how it’s the secret of its longevity. They need to replace their actor? Regeneration. They need to get the Doctor into a building? Psychic paper. But I think I’ve found the exception that proves the rule. Russell T Davies said in an interview “...The Beatles music is so expensive. Even on a Disney budget, we couldn’t afford that…And so I thought imagine you’re visiting The Beatles, and you couldn’t have The Beatles music. What would you do? And that’s the story. It kind of created itself”. In true Doctor Who fashion, Russell T Davies saw a limitation and folded it into the narrative. It’s a shame then, that it doesn’t work at all.

It started with their shots of Abbey Road and EMI Studios. The zebra crossing at Abbey Road isn’t that wide. I’ve been there. And since when did EMI Studios have a red brick entrance? Where are its classic Georgian-style box frame windows? It’s one of the most visited tourist spots in London, and you’re not going to actually go there? You can’t get the music. Ok. That’s sort of understandable. But they couldn’t film on location? What exactly is the Disney budget doing here? Remember when they flew the whole TARDIS crew to Utah? And then the next season to New York City? They managed to shoo tourists and locals away from Umpire Rock. You mean to tell me they couldn’t hold back traffic on Abbey Road for a few hours? Hell, just composite it. Shoot it on a soundstage. You don’t have to go “Angels Take Manhattan,” when you could go “Daleks Take Manhattan.”

This may seem like a weird gripe from a person who said it would be boring to complain about how two episodes are similar, but it is the crux of the matter. Why use The Beatles in an episode about The Beatles if you do nothing with them? Why highlight edifice in a story about being vulnerable? Yes, the episode is predicated on the very idea of not having the rights to The Beatles music catalog, but this also denies the audience a payoff. Let me explain. Ruby and the Doctor get dressed to the nines to go back to 1963 and watch the Beatles record their first album. Great so far. They have a cute little moment with the tea lady while they sneak into EMI studios. Still great. However, as they roll record for the Fab Four, it’s immediately apparent that something is very wrong. The Beatles' music sounds awful. Like how I imagine my friends on Facebook think they sound all the time. And still, things are going great. What this does, however, is set up expectations for the moment when The Beatles' music is finally back in its full glory. I’ve seen the shot from the trailer of Ncuti in the recording studio full of smiling perfects. It’s gonna be high energy. What a payoff. Right?

The Doctor and Ruby also pop in to listen to Cilla Black lay down a track. It’s the same crappy atonal music that only a trans woman with a collection of circuit-bent instruments could love. Something is amiss. The Doctor and Ruby do a bit of digging. It’s time to go talk to The Shitty Beatles. This time, it’s more than a clever name. With as much respect as I can muster, these have got to be some of the worst Beatle lookalikes I’ve ever seen. Except Paul who was spot on as the real Paul McCartney before he died and 1966 and was replaced with Faul. See my 9-11 Truther Anti-Vaxx Birds Aren’t Real grouphat for more information. The Doctor takes Paul and Ruby takes John. George and Ringo get zero lines, which tracks with history. They learn that both Paul and John don’t actually know why they play music. It feels silly, really. They should just pack it up. But something deep in them is still drawn to music, even if what comes out is a song about a dog that was only slightly better than “Rocky Raccoon.” But before they can slap them out of it like John with his first wife, they’re interrupted by visions of the Maestro.

Enter Jinkx Monsoon, who actually opens the episode but I’m using time travel to talk about things as they become relevant. Now, before they were cast in Doctor Who, I knew nothing about Jinkx Monsoon. I know she was on Drag Race, but I don’t watch that shit. No shade if you do. Ru Paul is totally not problematic and has never done anything weird. Everything I skimmed in Jinkx Monsoon’s Wikipedia page indicates they’re pretty cool. They relish in the role in a way that will make midwest dads shift in their chairs, and I’m here for it. They’ve got an oral fixation that’s impossible not to notice. When they eat the music from Timothy Drake’s soul, they let out a moan that sounds a lot like a climax, and not in the musical sense. Also, how sad is it for Tim Drake that he’ll never meet Batman? RIP Robin. 1925 was too early. Speaking of 1925, isn’t it interesting that the Maestro appears right around the same time as the Toymaker sold the Stooky Bill puppet to Charles Banerjee? Is there some significance with that year? Handily, no World Wars were happening at the time. The Scopes Monkey Trial occurred. Babe Ruth received surgery for an ulcer. They broke ground on defacing Mount Rushmore. But really, kind of tame considering the bookends of the era. The Lorcano treaty was doing a lot of the heavy lifting though.

The Maestro’s whole deal is a sort of crazed sense of ownership over music. To hear them describe it, music belongs to them. They are music. In this way, I was pleasantly surprised that they didn’t song and dance people to death. It’s nice to be surprised. I rather liked their motivation. Monsoon doesn’t need to do a whole lot of acting. It’s all very panto. Very drag. It’s the kind of performance you hope you get. I’m not saying it’s a bad performance, just an elevated one. Both Jinkx and Ncuti get a chance to overact a bit in this story. Once again, I don’t mean overact in a bad way. David Tennant is the biggest overactor in Doctor Who save for Soldeed in “The Horns of Nimon,” and he’s consistently voted favourite among Doctor Who fans. Add “tendency to overact,” to the pile of personality traits I’m beginning to love about the Fifteenth Doctor. I love it when the Doctor really sells the energy of a scene, even if it requires him to speak forlornly into the middle distance.

Attempting to get the world’s groove back, the Doctor has a piano hoisted to the roof of a building. This is, of course, a reference to The Beatles’ final public performance from the rooftop of Apple headquarters in Central London. Only instead of Billy Preston on the keys, it’s Ruby Sunday. As she plays a Ruby original, the inhabitants of neighbouring buildings begin to shake out of their fog as music descends on them like sunshine. It even inspires a granny played by Doctor Who legend Laura June Hudson to dust off her piano to play Debussy’s “Clair de Lune.” It’s a lovely moment which is about to get stomped on by the Maestro’s honking drag boots, but for a brief moment, music swells.

I was glad to see them taking time to slow things down a little in this episode. The Doctor even talks a bit about himself and Susan over on Totter’s Lane. Couple that with Carole Ann Ford’s presence at the Doctor Who premiere last year, and it feels like it might be more than a reference. I’ve seen Whovians of weak faith construe this to mean Susan is dead, but in my experience, when a writer says something isn’t, it is. That’s just my two cents. Who knows if any of it means anything. It could just be that it would be weird for the Doctor to visit London in 1963 and not mention him living there with his granddaughter. Or it could be that Doctor Who is finally getting a better Doctor/Susan reunion than “The FIve Doctors.” Who could forget the moment when they’re reunited? 

First Doctor: "Oh, er, this is Susan."

Fifth Doctor: "Yes I know."

How could you not get choked up? What a reunion. I can’t imagine why people would want something more. The Doctor told her all those years ago “Someday I’ll come back,” and he did. It was brief and without any of that pesky emotional connection we usually get from television.

Ruby pulls the classic “But the world didn’t end in 1963, I exist,” so the Doctor shows Ruby what the world would look like without music and it’s grim. It was nice of them to show us a bombed-out London as many of us are still feeling the sting from Fallout: London’s delayed release. Thanks, Doccy Who. But the two are not alone as they’re interrupted by the Maestro and their Looney Tunes brand of scary sexy. As with their first interaction, the Doctor runs. I love that aspect because it’s very Davies Doctor Who. The Doctor runs from the Time Vortex. The Doctor runs from Gallifrey. The Ninth Doctor refers to himself as cowardly, but what it really is is he hasn’t anything to prove. He’ll live today to fight again tomorrow, and yesterday. Timey wimey.

While the Maestro finds the Doctor both hot and timey wimey, they are still very much a threat to him and the Doctor knows this. You can’t fight the Pantheon. You have to abide by their rules. How do you fight someone who can control the TARDIS with music? The Doctor rips the TARDIS console a new one in order to flee back to 1963, where the world has yet to end. I found it cute the way he kisses the console to say sorry for the way he treated her. It not only suits the Doctor, but this Doctor with his brand of compassion. The TARDIS gets it, but you’ve gotta kiss a boo-boo or it won’t get better, everyone knows that.

The Doctor’s only plan with his limited resources is to somehow find the opposite of the Devil’s Chord, a sort of lost chord, if you will. Of course, this draws the Maestro to the Doctor like my cats to the sound of the tin opener. The Maestro captures Ruby, wrapping her up in sheet music. The Doctor stares down the Maestro as they allow him the opportunity to prove his musical genius. Can the Doctor find the lost chord? With each new note appearing above the piano, the Maestro writhes in twisted agony. But the Doctor hits a bum note and the Maestro is back on their feet ready to suffocate the Doctor in a drum and choke the life out of Ruby. But the song within Ruby’s soul from the Christmas Eve where she was left on that church stoop is stronger than anything the Maestro can muster. The Maestro may own music, but Ruby owns this song in that moment. Like before in “Space Babies,” the snow begins to fall indoors and the Maestro recoils in horror.

This gives the Beatles enough time to discover the piano and play that final note. Alone, they may not be geniuses, but the combination of McCartney and Lennon is enough to find the lost chord and banish the Maestro. They could have also achieved this with Harrison alone. He wrote “Here Comes the Sun,” after all. With the lost chord now found, the Maestro gets sucked off back where they came. Was the note they found the same one from the end of “Day in the Life?” RTD said they used a single Beatles chord. Was that it? I don’t know enough about music to answer that. After a quick re-listen, I'm going to say yes.

London is once again filled with music. Now, we’ll finally get the chance to see the Beatles play their actual music, right? They fixed music, right? God I wish. After cryptically looking into the camera and saying “There’s always a twist in the end,” the Doctor and Ruby are suddenly thrust into what I can only describe as the worst song possible. I’ve said in the past that I am not a huge fan of Murray Gold’s music. There’s nothing wrong with it, it’s just a bit safe for my tastes. But this song… I loathe it with every fibre of my being. It’s cloying, it’s corny, and it’s a repetitive ear worm you don’t want stuck in your head. I’ve said I was interested in Doctor Who doing a musical number, but this was god awful. I try to be as fair as possible when it comes to my reviews, so I think I’ve earned enough good faith to openly say this song is terrible. I would rather listen to the crappy dog song from earlier in the episode, and I don’t even own any circuit-bent instruments, and therein lies the problem.

How can you say the Doctor saved music when the way you present it is with a song that is simply not good? We need a good song in this moment, and that was not it. If ever there was a time to reach into the coffers and pay for a song, it was this. I mean, he said “There’s always a twist in the end,” and “Twist and Shout,” was right there. It wasn’t even written by the Beatles so it might have even been cheaper. They could even re-record it in the same Glee style in which they filmed the big song and dance routine. Hell, how expensive are Cilla Black songs? Do one of those. Instead, we get another fake Beatles song, in fake EMI studios, on fake Abbey Road to imply that we saved the future from a world of fake Beatles songs. By the time this insipid tune wears out its welcome, the Doctor and Ruby skip away across Abbey Road, lighting up the zebra crossing like piano keys. But instead of it being charming, it caused both my wife and I to say “Oh God, it’s still going.” 

After the episode, I did a little bit of reading. I figured the two people dancing with the Doctor and Ruby were guest stars as they singled them out over the other background dancers. Evidently, they’re judges or competitors on Strictly. I dunno, I don’t watch that shit. So I really have no idea if that song was written to be in the style of something you would see on Strictly. But what I do know, is that it was brave of Murray Gold to show his face during that exquisite train wreck. I guess this episode really did pull a “Daleks in Manhattan,” à la “My Angel Put the Devil In Me.” In that respect, you can add contemporary music to the list of things Doctor Who should do well, but can’t seem to get right. It’s in good company with pirates and westerns. “The Gunfighters,” even fails at two out of three. Impressive!

I do admire the hell out of RTD and company for throwing their whole ass into that ending. It takes real chutzpah to fail so spectacularly. And honestly, as harsh as I’ve been, I didn’t totally hate the scene. In some ways, it's a clever pastiche to '60s music. In that light, I could maybe come around to it, over time. They’re also trying new things. But I think we found the ceiling pretty fast. I can’t say I’d like to see that sort of thing a lot more in the future, but here and there? Sure. As it is, it feels unrestrained and masturbatory. And truthfully, I would have preferred an actual musical like Buffy’s “Once More, With Feeling,” or Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ “Subspace Rhapsody.” They somehow gave me what I wanted while simultaneously failing to deliver.

Now of course, the real question is- what was the twist at the end? Was it the appearance of the Maestro’s “son,” Henry “Harbinger,” Arbinger?  Or maybe it was a meta-reference to actress Susan Twist, the woman who once again has shown up in the background. I find it even more interesting that in every episode where she’s appeared, they give her a line to read. Or maybe it’s a Susan twist, as in the Doctor’s granddaughter. They mention Susan in the same episode with an actress named Susan Twist where they sing about twists while doing the twist. It’s like “Who’s on second?” or “The Doctor’s daughter who plays the Doctor’s daughter in ‘The Doctor’s Daughter,’ marries the Doctor.” 

Despite the ending and the rehashed story, I rather liked this episode. Jinkx Monsoon and Ncuti Gatwa had great chemistry. The mysteries continue to unfold. Along with my hope for the Rani, I can now add hope for Susan into the mix, and as with the Rani, I won’t get my hopes up. In the same vein, I'm grateful that Maestro wasn't a code name for the Master. We've seen enough of him for a while, thanks. Ncuti and Millie continue to impress as the Doctor and Ruby. I also admired Ruby's restraint in not telling John Lennon to avoid chubby guys in glasses. I loved the Maestro and the fact that their laugh was vocal warm-up. So much fantastic attention to detail. But that ending is not my bag. It felt tacked on, poorly paced, and obnoxious. It reminded me of that line from Fight Club- “We are the all-singing, all-dancing crap of the world.” Emphasis on the crap.

[percyjacksonblog]

PJO TV series thoughts (some spoilers)

The actors know their characters really well

The pacing is too slow

It really missed the mark on Percy and Luke’s early relationship and therefore missed the emotional impact of Luke betraying Percy in the forest

Quit giving the kids the answers immediately, one of the best parts about the series is how you see Percy and the rest of the half-bloods wrestling with their issues during the quests and therefore generating more character development

Missed the opportunity to look more deeply into Annabeth and Luke’s relationship and Annabeth feeling betrayed by Luke

Did like them bringing up Thalia in more detail before SoM

Action scenes were lacking. These characters with the movie action scenes would have improved the overall experience in my opinion

The Lotus Casino and Hotel was disappointing to me. That chapter in the book revealed so much more about the characters then everything up to that point i.e a preview into their “fatal flaws”

Didn’t mention Annabeth’s love of architecture but A+ mentioning her fear of spiders

I did like some of the changes, and it overall was more true to the story than the movie

Not Jason Mantzoukas actually being one of the best casting choices for Dionysus

They did a good job making Kronos creepy, but missed just how sinister he actually is

Overall I did enjoy it. I think this was a good place to start to test the water and the audience before the rest of the story comes out.

Things I hope they do and keep in mind moving forward.

They need to pick the pace up. They cut so much from the book and just left the big plot points that it seems like nothing is actually leading them from one plot point to the next.

Hopefully the show runners saw what is happening with the stranger things kids and won’t let that happen here. They were like 12 years old when they started and now they’re in their late teens and early twenties. They need to film as much as they can for the next two installments as possible over the course of this year and then they can do the same with BotL and TLO. We’d either get a Logan Lerman or Stranger Things scenario where adults are playing teens and it looks so bad.

Better marketing for the pre-teen audience. I was in 6th grade when I first heard about Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief had been out for probably close to 3-4 years so I literally grew up with Percy, it was a very personal story for me. That being said, because I was around Percy’s age I related to the characters more and there needs to be a better job of connecting the 11-14 year old target audience to this story. PJO fan clubs at the junior high schools, book clubs in their English classes with resources from the show etc. I love this story, but I’m a full grown adult now with an adult job and have had one for years so I know I’m not the target audience for this show, but I know several people like me who are in the same situation.

SoM is the shortest in the original 5 book series so they need to stick closer to the source material, maybe more Odyssey references as SoM is essentially a retelling of The Odyssey.

Unless they literally film the next 4 seasons at once within the next two years, I don’t think we’ll get a HoO series, the kids will be too old. The only work around I can see is recasting Percy and Annabeth or making two original characters, but then SoN,MoA and HoH wouldn’t make sense.

[topazshadowwolf]

GoopTales: Part 21 Cuddles with Dadmare

Lyra tends to the boys as Nightmare sleeps, but after bed it is time for bed...

Parts: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21(you are here)/34

AO3: Ch 1 (1-4), Ch 2 (4-8), Ch 3 (9-12), Ch 4 (13-16) Ch 5 (17-19), Ch 6 (20-23), Ch 7 (24-27), Ch 8 (28-31), Ch 9 (32-34)

---

What had been the “entertainment room” now looked more like a playroom, with toys and games in easy reach of the boys. There were some movies and video games, but only a scant amount, considering they had been adults before who preferred watching more grown-up movies and shows. They didn’t care; the boys enjoyed playing board games together rather than video games alone. This was true even if they chose to break the rules so they could somehow all win.

Actually, it wasn’t breaking the rules so much as coming up with their own, occasionally midgame. Lyra didn’t mind since they were all having fun, even if she honestly had no idea what was happening most of the time. Killer and Cross were definitely the ring leaders in all of this, and Horror, though he seemed older, just seemed to enjoy following along in the chaos.

After a while, Horror moved over by her and leaned against her side with a yawn. Placing a hand on his back, she looked down at him. “Are you done with the game?” He gave a tired nod, and that was when she noticed the tears in his sockets. “Is your head bothering you?”

The child sighed, then looked up at her. “i try to ignore it…” his voice was quivering, and she scooped him up.

“I know you do, but you do not need to,” She stood up. “Killer, Cross, can you both play quietly until I return?”

“uh huh!” Killer replied.

“i wanna color!” Cross announced, and then he waved at Horror. “g’night!”

“night,” replied Horror, who then cuddled further into her chest—the poor dear.

She walked to the kitchen, where she knew she saw a bottle of pain pills safe for someone so young. She dosed out some and gave it to him with a glass of water. “There you go. Now, do you want to stay up a bit longer or go to bed?”

“bed, please, mrs. lyra,” Horror replied.

“Of course. How could I not help you to bed when you ask so nicely?” She answered as she picked him back up and carried him down the hall to the room Nightmare had picked out.

She entered the room and approached the bed. Before she could set him down, he asked softly, “where is dust? i thought he was sleeping.”

“Oh, well, he asked to sleep with Mr. Night,” She explained.

“oh…,” He said quietly. And there was continued silence. Part of her had a feeling she knew what he wanted to ask.

“Horror?” She started, and the child looked up at her. “Do you want to sleep with Mr. Night, too?”

Then the child looked away momentarily before turning back to Lyra and nodding. “but… i should be sleeping alone, aren't i?”

“It will be alright,” She said, and she turned around to leave the room and made her way to Nightmare’s room.

Opening the door, she listened and could only hear the soft breathing of sleeping. Her soft paw pads made her walk across the old, wood floor silent as she made her way over to the bed. Dust was still cuddled up to Nightmare, but she could see that the guardian now had an arm around the child. She set Horror down, and he crawled closer. She helped him under the covers so he was on the other side of Nightmare, cuddled up to his side.

Not long after she finished tucking the child in, she noticed the covers move as a tendril curled around Horror. Happily, the child wrapped his arms around the limb and hugged it like one might a teddy bear. Still, Nightmare was asleep, and this action was done unconsciously. This made Lyra smile as she moved a paw to her mouth to hold back a giggle.

Oh, how she will tease him once this ordeal is over. For one so adamant that he is not a father, he has taken to a fatherly role so naturally, he even fathers the boys in his sleep. Content that everyone was comfortable, she made her way back to the other two.

Cross and Killer were coloring near each other to share crayons. She walked over and smiled at them, “May I join you?”

“sure!” Cross replied as Killer moved over to make space for her, even if there was plenty of space already.

She thanked Killer for being so polite before joining the two on the floor and picking a coloring book. Opening it, she found a picture of a castle with a dragon with four hatchlings. It was labeled “A Mother Dragon And Young,” but nothing about the dragon made it male or female. Lyra decided that she would change this picture to fit her narrative for the image.

As they colored, Cross and Killer took turns talking about their days being here with Mr. Night and the others. “sometimes, i take my coloring book in, and i color in mr. night’s office. i always ask if i can help him, and sometimes he tells me he has a paper that needs some colors or drawings to make it nicer. so i make it look as colorful and nice as possible! mr. night always tells me i did a good job, and he pats me on the head before setting the paper aside,” Cross explained.

“he lets me help him wash up after dinner sometimes!” Killer said happily. “mr. night lets me dry stuff, and then he uses his tentacles to pick me up so i can put some of the stuff away!”

“It is so nice that you two are willing to help him,” She praised.

They continued to color until she had almost finished her picture. She was rather pleased with it and the edit of crossing out “Mother” and writing “Father.” It was then she noticed how quiet it was, and she looked up to see Cross was sleeping. Killer’s coloring had become lethargic while his sockets drooped, meaning he was ready for bed, too.

“Alright, I think it is time for bed for you two,” She said as she carefully picked up Cross. The youngest clung to her and nuzzled his face against her neck. Killer sat up and stretched his arms up to her. Sweeping her free arm over, she scooped up the last little skeleton.

As she made her way to the bedrooms, she glanced down at them, “Now, Horror and Dust are sleeping with Mr. Night. Is that where you would want to sleep too?”

“can we?” Cross asked, opening his tired sockets as he asked.

“please, oh please!” Killer said while he started to wiggle in her arms.

“You can if you two promise to be quiet and sleep. Remember, Mr. Night needs his sleep, so you can’t be noisy,” She insisted.

“we will,” Cross said.

“i’m going to be super quiet, i promise!” Killer said loudly.

Well… time will tell.

Before long, she was setting Cross on one side of the bed and Killer on the other. Cross was curling up near Horror when a tentacle embraced him. He smiled at the limb and started to pet it softly. Then, as his sockets closed, his hand stopped when he drifted off to sleep. 

Killer wiggled around near Dust, who grunted in annoyance but did not wake. Dust did yawn before he snuggled closer to Nightmare. Rolling so his back was toward Dust’s back, Killer then scootched back until they touched back to back. This also meant he wiggled his way under Nightmare’s arm, which was still over the smaller skeleton child.

Luckily, Nightmare did not wake, but like the others, a tentacle curled around the child, and Killer hugged the limb while nuzzling it. At least Killer was being quiet.

Killer reached out to her then, and she tilted her head. “i need a goodnight kiss,” he whispered.

Lyra smiled softly, then leaned down and placed a kiss on the tiny skeleton’s skull. Killer smiled back up at her before he started to settle into sleep. With that, she took a moment to admire the little family before her.

With a pleased smile, Lyra left the little family to sleep. Now, to finish tending the animals.

---

Nightmare sat in the shadow of his mother, reading a book silently to himself. It was a pleasant afternoon, not too hot, but not cold either—just the perfect temperature. Dream was away, as usual, helping the villagers. So, Nightmare was left to entertain himself, and he did so by reading.

That is until he noticed a lost child approaching him. Nightmare was a child himself, but this one was clearly younger than him.

“Hello? If you are here for the golden apples, my brother is away, and I am not to touch them,” Nightmare stated.

“n… no… i just… i don’t know where i am, and i…” The child was trembling as he looked around. The child was wearing a shirt with a sloth and matching bottoms. Odd clothing, really. He had never seen anyone dressed like that before. He looked around, clearly confused, with red eye lights, though the left eye had cyan blue in the middle.

“Where did you last see your parents?” Nightmare asked.

The child stiffened and looked down at the ground for a moment. He fidgeted with his shirt hem for a moment before finally muttering a question so quietly that Nightmare could not understand him, just the inflection of his voice.

“I am sorry, but what did you say?” Nightmare said with a sigh.

“what… what does ‘parents’ mean?” The child asked quietly, but at least this time, it was loud and clear enough for Nightmare to understand. But the question startled him.

“You do not know what the word ‘parent’ means?” He clarified, but that appeared to be the wrong thing to do. The child quickly turned and ran, but Nightmare jumped up and followed. His taller body meant longer legs, and he quickly caught up with the small child and grabbed him in a hug. 

The small boy was crying. He kept repeating that he was sorry. “sorry, i…i… shouldn’t have bothered you. i’m sorry… sorry that i… i’m stupid and a failure.”

“Shhh? Now, when did I utter such words?” He asked, and the child shivered in his arms. “A parent is the mother and/or father of a child. Or caregivers of a child who considers the child theirs.”

“oh…,” The small child looked up at Nightmare, tears in his sockets, but spoke with a happy tone, “i just learned about moms and dads!” The child then looked down and muttered the word ‘parents’ a few times as if committing it to memory. If he just learned about mothers and fathers, then this child is likely an orphan from an early age. One that has not had kind guardians. “mr. night is watching me for… the doctor. but he says i don’t have to go back to the doctor. i don’t think mr. night is my parent though… but he is nice… i mean, he’s not nice! he’s mean and horrible! oh! and very scary!”

Yeah… Nightmare wasn’t believing that last bit. The child seemed way too happy talking about this ‘Mr. Night.’ In all likelihood, this Mr. Night was some hermit who just didn’t want a bunch of people coming around by putting up a front that he encouraged this kid to perpetuate. Nightmare will gauge how ‘nice’ this Mr. Night is when he finds this child.

“Come with me, then, sit under my tree beside me and wait for Mr. Night to find you,” Nightmare said as he finally released the child from a hug before taking his hand and guiding him back to his mother.

I do not think this is wise, my child. A mortal is a mortal, even when small. His mother said. But Nightmare could not just leave this little child to wander around alone. He knows firsthand how cruel the village can be. And as much as Nightmare loves nature… a child so small would not last long alone. Saving his spot, he flipped back to the beginning of the book and started to read aloud.

After some time, a voice called out, “dust!” And Nightmare looked up to see another child approaching. The poor thing! His skull was cracked and he had… “dust! you’re here too?” The child wore a white shirt, fur-lined hoodie, and black shorts with a white stripe.

… Horror… Dust…

As the children talked, Nightmare remembered that he was no longer a child, that this was a dreamscape made by his tired mind that he drew these children into. Even in exhaustion, he seemed to want these mortals near, it seems.

How interesting that their minds choose to dress them in clothes they wear as adults…

“i am waiting here for mr. night,” Dust explained, and Horror nodded.

“okay, can’t miss this tree, so it makes sense!” Horror said as he sat down next to Dust. Horror then looked at Nightmare and smiled, “hello, mind if i stay here too?”

“No, you are welcome to wait here as well,” Nightmare replied, then continued the story after Dust explained what was going on so Horror understood.

Cross quietly walked up with a wave and sat next to Horror. Much like Dust, he wore pajamas, though they were pajama bottoms, with his favorite ‘anime’ themed t-shirt. Nightmare smiled at Cross, who waved at him before listening intently to the story. Mother chided Nightmare for keeping such mortals around. He… didn’t like the things she said about them. He could understand some of it, as he will admit, they were not the best ambassadors for mortal kind. Still, they were his, and that was all that mattered to him. He hated ignoring her, as she was his mother, even if this was a dream.

Thankfully, Killer’s boisterous entrance did drown out those hurtful things she said. The child, dressed in his regular clothes, white shorts, black sweater, and hoodie with a fur-lined hood, dashed forward and pounced on Dust. The smaller yelped out as Killer loudly proclaimed “tickle fight” before mercilessly assaulting Dust’s ticklish areas. Dust yelped and squeaked before giggling away. Horror was the one to come to his rescue, grabbing Killer and tickling the babybones, who squealed with laughter.

Dust scurried over and hid behind Nightmare as Cross faced a decision. Who does he back up? After a moment of debating, Cross jumped up and started to tickle Horror. Horror started to turn to defend himself when Killer sprang up to get the larger of the three back.

“Oh dear,” Nightmare said as he closed the book. He glanced back at Dust, “It appears the odds are against your friend. Two against one.”

Dust frowned for a moment, then looked up at Nightmare. “I am sorry for disturbing your peace, but I need to help horror.”

“That is quite alright. You do what you need to do,” Nightmare said with a smile. That was all Dust needed before running forward and tackling Killer. The two rolled around in the grass in a fit of giggles as they tried to tickle the other. That gave Horror the opportunity he needed to grab the youngest and tickle him until he surrendered.

Once the giggling died down, Nightmare stood up. “Care to join me for a walk?”

“sure!” Cross said, and Horror helped him stand.

Killer looked up at Nightmare briefly, then smiled big, “yeah! let’s join him!” Killer stood and pulled Dust up onto his feet.

With that, he led the children to the forest that he often played in with his brother, away from the ominous village and the insulting words of his mother. Once in the shelter of the trees, he helped them climb and explore…

… He almost didn’t want to wake up.

Almost… for a dream is just that, a dream. What matters more is the events in the waking world.

---

next

[certifiedlovergirlsstuff]

valentines day

summary: valentine’s day. the day of chocolate hearts, flowers, budding romance, and heartbreak.

WC: 1.7K

warnings: this is clean

A/N: ALL PARTS UNDER THE TAG -The Byers Harrington Story-

this is version2 of what i original started with but my break caused me to change it. so maybe in the future my version1 of certain stories might be posted, we’ll see obviously.

THANK YOU FOR 300 FOLLOWERS💗💗💗

series masterlist

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February 14, 1985

The house was quiet, the only noise heard through the structure was the mild volume of the TV. Movies and shows playing their romantic scenes, couples going on dates, a guy running through the rain to get the girl before it’s too late or many other romance gestures Hollywood could think of.

No one was in the house, well except for two people, those two people lounging on the couch just staring at the small screen and it was only two-thirty in the afternoon. Jonathan went out earlier since he planned a who day with Nancy, and said something about going to the next town over for dinner or something. Joyce had to work, as usual, she was basically the only employee at Melvard’s, so you wouldn’t see her until later that day. So it was only you and Will.

Steve called earlier and said he’s being held hostage, metaphorically, but also literally. His parents were in town for a few days and he mentioned something about lunch and his father’s work, so you know he wishes to stab himself to leave that situation. So you wouldn’t see your adoring boyfriend until tonight, dinner plans he step up, not Enzo’s he added.

You asked Will what his plans were when you saw he made himself comfy on the worn brown couch, just lounging in his pj's.

“Mike said he’s hanging with El today, followed by Lucas remembering to make plans with Max, so that’s two couples I don’t want to third wheel today.”

“What about Dustin? He doesn’t have a girlfriend.”

His attention moved from the screen to a loose thread he started picking at, “said he was working on a science project or something, and also that he was going with his mom for bingo at her friends.”

You twisted your torso to lean into the cushions, left leg angled on the seat while you face Will, head tilted at his pouting face. You poked a finger into his right thigh for his attention.

“Why don’t we do something? Like we used to do.” It used to be homemade valentine’s day cards with baking brownies or cookies and the final piece, going on a walk down the block and venting to each other.

“Is it only ‘cause Steve can’t come until tonight?” His comment was low, but you heard the sadness in the whispers.

You scooted closer to his, your leg to his thigh, your hands grabbing at his to stop any fidgeting, “Will, you know I love hanging out with you. Just ‘cause I have a boyfriend now doesn’t mean that changes.” With one hand you placed it upon his left cheek and turned his head to completely face you, “you’re my number one guy, always will be. Partners come and go, but my family will come first no matter what.”

You saw his eyes dip away, “hey,” you cooed softly to him, “Will, is something wrong?”

He didn’t even say anything and you knew there was something eating at him, but he was holding back. The only sign was the wetness growing along his lash line, and the tiny bite to his bottom lip.

“Hey, hey, hey.” You moved off the sofa to crouch at his knees, “Will, please, please, tell me if there’s something I can do to help. Or tell me what’s wrong, please, I don’t like seeing you like this.” Your own eyes tearing up and your throat straining.

The tears started to slip from his eyes and down his cheeks, matching stains on both your faces. He still didn’t say anything, only sniffling to stop the snot from dripping. Your fingers drummed along his knees, the physical sign of your nerves.

“Will…”

“I…I like someone…” his voice cracked on the last word, like the thought of them broke his heart.

You released a small sigh, relieved it wasn’t about something horrible, just a middle school crush. Your actions showed your thoughts as you dropped your forehead to rest on your knuckles that still sat on Will’s knees.

“Will…you scared me-” Your light chuckles stopped when you felt his body shaking and looked up to see his face pinched in hurt.

“Will… everything… it’s only a middle school crush.” You tried to comfort him. “You- you don’t… you don’t get it (Y/n).” His stuttered cries cracked your heart.

“Then tell me, explain to me. I was a kid in middle school not too long ago with a crush, I know the pain. I even had elementary crushes, and those hurt me.” A quick flash of middle school you staring longingly at middle school Steve, a kiss shared between you and another girl in your room.

You moved from the floor back to the couch, closer to Will and pulling him in by the shoulders, his head resting on your collarbone. One hand going to tangle in his dark brown strands while the other rubs up and down along his spine to soothe his hiccuped crying.

“Okay, okay. You don’t need to tell me anything right now, but know that you can tell me when you’re ready. I understand the pain of crushes, some of them you can’t have.” His hands clutched at your shirt.

No words were spoken for the next five minutes. Only the sounds of the TV as white noise, Will’s sniffling, quieting, and trailing off as the seconds ticked by. Your hand moved in slow and soothing circles over his shoulder blades while your other hand held the back of his head.

“Do you want some water?” Those were the first words out of your mouth.

Will nodded in acceptance of the offer. You both detangled from each other, limbs sore and bones cracking at the sudden movement. Your footsteps thudded against the hardwood that led into the cool tile of the kitchen. You stood on the tips of your toes and reached for a clean mug before placing it under the faucet. Just as the cup was full and you turned around, the landline blasted its high pitch ringing. A bit of water splashed to the floor due to your jumping at the blaring noise. You exhaled a sigh, placed the mug on the table, and trekked to the ringing phone.

“Hello?”

“Hi, beautiful.” His honey-laced voice greeted you.

A smile tugged at your lips, “Hi, Stevie. How are you doing?”

He huffed at the question which caused a giggle to slip from you, “I wanted to stab my ears so I could block out my dad’s annoying voice and comments. But I’m free now, so can I escape my jail and hide out at your place until dinner tonight?”

You twirled the thick cord ‘round a finger, “as much as I would like to see you, Will kinda needs me right now.” You kept your voice low, and you peeked into the living area to look at Will.

“Is everything okay?” Your heart skipped a tiny beat hearing the worry in Steve’s voice at the mention of Will.

“Yeah, yeah. It’s nothing horrible, just something personal. But I’ll- I’ll call you back when you can come over, or maybe you can come over in like…in like two hours. Is that okay?”

“Yeah, that’s fine. I’ll bring some extra stuff to stay over.”

“Perfect. I wasn’t planning on having you leave at the end of the night anyway, Harrington.” The last name holds an implication in the tone.

“Oh really, Byers. And why is that?” 

“Well-” “Please, god, stop!”

Will was fully facing you from the couch and his face was morphed into a disgusted scowl. You chuckled at his annoyance but knew you should hurry up anyway to get back to him.

“I gotta go. I’ll see you later.”

“Okay, don’t have too much fun without me.”

“That won’t be a problem.” And you hung up.

Will watched you as you came back to the couch, polka-dotted mug in hand.

“So…you wanna- wanna talk about it? Your crush.” Your fingers drummed against the ceramic.

Will took the mug from your grasp and chugged half the fluid before setting it on the table. You weren’t gonna rush him, knowing if you pushed someone in the Byers family to open up, most likely they’ll close themselves off.

So you waited and watched as he picked at the skin around his nails. Saw how his top teeth dug into his bottom lip harshly, blood likely to draw if he went any harder. And just when you were beginning to think he had changed his mind, his voice hiccuped.

“I…I like someone…that someone being...” he started picking harder at his skin, “it’s a- it’s a b-boy…” he trailed off, you almost didn’t hear him with the TV still on.

“Oh. Oh.”

Now you understand his pain and hesitation to tell you. But also you’re just a bit hurt to think he was scared to tell you, you understand where he’s coming from.

“Will, I understand that feeling you’re having. Where your brain is telling you it’s wrong to feel these things for someone of the same sex, but your heart is doing somersaults at just the tiny thought of them, getting to hold their hair, watching them smile at a stupid joke you made, or just looking at you like you’re the only person in the world to them. And- and I know people say it’s wrong an- and immoral or some bullshit that they use religion as an excuse, but there is nothing wrong or disgusting or immoral about loving someone.” 

The silence, along with the tones of dialogue in the background filled the space. Your mouth got a bit dry at the end of your speech, need to make sure you got your point across in one go so Will could speak up at any time. You wanted him to ask questions, get those horrible thoughts out of his head and replace them with a new perspective.

“Do you… do you wish you could be normal? Not have these thoughts? I- I know what you went through…when dad was here.” He was looking at you through his lashes.

“Sometimes,” you sighed, remembering laying awake after getting hit by your dad, “but I would never change that about myself. And you should never think about changing yourself just to fit into the norm.”

You held a hand out, palm up with inviting fingers. It took a second, but Will got the message and linked hands with you. He didn’t say anything further, and you didn’t poke for more information. The two of you just sat in the quiet, knowing that the two of you shared something no one else in the family would understand, your bond growing just a bit more that day with each other.

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

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[multiwreckedmess]

February Filth Fest - Day 14

Pairing: boyfriend!Mingi x fem!Reader Prompt: soft dom/sub, foodplay (valentine’s day themed) WC: 2.3k Summary: Valentines Day is stressful, even when you have a Valentine. Everyone wants it to be this big special day and yet, how? When you love a person this much, you need to get creative. Or not. TW/CW: I made this one pretty goofy not going to lie. I wanted to write some fluffy smut. Reader is referred to with fem pronouns and a vulva, unprotected penetration, sorta soft dom Mingi although really its pretty vanilla. Food getting eaten off of bodies. Not vegetarian/vegan friendly.

As usual this is fiction, not a manual. This is not meant to represent real events. Please do not interact if you are below 18. I can’t control what you read online but I can kindly ask that you don’t tell me about it in ANY way. This is for your safety and my comfort!

Mingi bursts out laughing, fist clenching around his chopsticks. “I cannot do this, I really can’t.” “Stop being such a pussy and eat some fish god damn it.” You hiss, muscles frozen in fear of following Mingi’s chuckling. Mingi’s near crying with laughter, chopsticks shaking as he reaches towards a slice of yellowtail topped with a sliver of jalapeno. Shaking from the force of his guffaws he knocks the fish off the rice it so lovingly sat atop. “My dad owns a sushi restaurant.” “Mingi!” “I can’t stop seeing his face!” “Mingi, fucking christ, why didn’t you tell me?” You lay there, carefully arranged banana leaves and raw fish topping your naked body. You’d seen it once in a movie, a little kitschy but seemed like a cute and sexy way to have a quiet valentines day dinner at home. A nice bonding experience that didn’t involve the stress and effort of going to some crowded restaurant with an overpriced pre-fixe menu.  It hadn’t occurred to you to ask your partner’s parents' occupations. “I didn’t think it was pertinent! I’m so sorry-” tears streaming down his face. “I’m sorry I ruined your very…creative…idea.” Gingerly pinching the leaves arranged on your body and picking them up, takeaway sushi and all, Mingi helped place them to the side, revealing more and more of your skin. It wasn’t the way you’d hoped the night would go. Ideally the pieces would’ve disappeared slowly as Mingi ate, feeding you as he discovered the tastiest slices. Leaves slowly dwindling, building anticipation. Not shuttling the pieces away in chunks so that you could re-robe yourself in shame to sit on the couch next to your boyfriend picking through the mess of fish and green.

“I mean, the sushi is really good!” Mingi’s cheeks bulge with rice as he chews. “Rice is well seasoned…nice thick cuts of-” You glare. You aren’t in the mood for him trying to lighten it. You want to sulk and pout and ruminate. You want him to feel the cool breeze from your silence wash over him. Nibbling at the pieces Mingi places gingerly near you, the ‘sensual’ jazz playlist you’d found hums along in the background. The foolishness of it all still stings even though some day this will be a found moment, right now you want to disappear and wail into a mug of wine.

Slowly the evidence of your misfire dwindles, only a small stack of leaves remaining which Mingi gathers into a tight bundle to throw in the trash. “Easy clean up!” The man valiantly attempts to lighten the mood and is once more shot down with a mute stare as he exits to throw away the decoration. Slouching back into the couch with a heavy sigh you pull your phone from your robe pocket. “Mission fail. Imma kms.” You message Wooyoung. “WHAT. How?!” A flurry of bubbles appear on your screen in all caps. “How dare he, he doesn’t know how much effort went into the layout, the presentation, the acquisition.” “His dad. It was his dad.” “His dad? His dad saw you naked?!” “No dummy. His dad owns a sushi spot.” “Shit.”

You quickly darken the screen as Mingi reenters and plops down next to you. He sits on the edge of the cushions, fidgeting. Fighting down what he wants to say. He knows sometimes you just need time to be upset but he hates knowing that you are. “You did set up the sushi really nicely, you know. I really appreciate that you noticed how much I’d been mentioning wanting to eat it.” He speaks softly with a small half smile. “Hmph.” Pouting he tries valiantly. “Please, as a gift can I love you now?” “I feel dumb and unlovable and I hate myself so no.” “Can I love you twice as much to make up for it?” He pesters one last time, swearing to himself he’ll give up if you say it again. You fold for him. Anybody would. Such a big man being so cautious and tender. “You’re such a big doof.” You soften into his side. His glow is contagious when he smiles as brightly as he does when you give in to his affection. It’s warm and comforting like a sunbeam in the middle of winter, reminding you that better days are just around the corner. “Plus you’ve given me a great idea for dessert…” he grins wolfishly.

You can’t believe that this man has you in such a similar position as he’d found you. Naked and layed out on the bed you shiver. The anticipation has you on edge more than the slight chill in the air. Mingi appears at the door, twirling a silver can in his hands. Very unceremoniously he tips the can to the ceiling and squirts a small pile of whipped cream into his mouth. “‘Ou r’a’y?” He can barely enunciate with his cheeks puffed out cutely. It’s hard to believe that he’s the same man that makes your gut twist and toes curl when he looks so adorable. “I’m naked aren’t I?” “And very appetizing.” He leans over and kisses you, a hint of sweetness lingering on his lips. Steadying yourself you close your eyes. It’s difficult to allow yourself to slip into the right headspace as you failed so spectacularly earlier. Flinching, the shake of the can is unmistakable. “Are you scared?” He teases. “Is my baby a scaredy cat? What’s the whipped cream going to do to you huh?” “Shut up, you’re worse than me.” You say through gritted teeth. “I’ve never once been scared in my whole life.” You frown, and look at him, “you’re such a bull-” you try to argue but are interrupted by the sudden shock. The can splutters, spraying fluffy cream directly onto your breasts. “-shit Mingi! It’s cold hurry!” You jolt and squirm at the sensation. He slaps your thigh, “if you keep moving it’ll melt off you onto the sheets and then you’ll really be sorry.” With one flick of his tongue he collects the sweet sticky substance, pleased with your reaction. He lowers his head to suck and swirl around your nipple, in the guise of collecting any remnants. “Y-yess,” you hiss and arch into him. “Oh you like that huh?” He shakes the can, pressing the nozzle to dispense more onto the other side. “Mingi- please-” you choke out as his warm mouth remedies the cold touch of the whipped cream deliciously. He lavishes the same attention to your other breast, drawing the sensitive skin between his lips. Blood flows to your sex, leaving you tender and tingly, hyper aware of the arousal leaking from your slit. “You want some?” He asks, lips parting from you with a pop. “I can put it on my-” “If you hope to put your dick anywhere near my pussy you know my answer.” “More for me then,” he shrugs, dispensing a line from the valley of your sternum down to your belly button, chasing the fluff the way back up. “Open.” You obey easily, tongue poking out and waiting. Carefully he squirts a tiny star from the can onto your tongue just enough for a taste, not enough to fill your mouth. “Meanie,” you whine and pout, trying not to smile. “You love me.” “You’re lucky I do.” “I know,” he smiles, placing the can on the nightstand and slinking between your legs. “I’m really lucky.”

Two of his fingers slide along your slit, circling, teasing. Your hips rock with him, always eager to bend to even the smallest of his touches. It helped that even his small touches felt large due to his size. Everything from his strong thighs, large hands, pointed nose, and thick cock made you needy and pliant against your daily nature. “Oh you’re ready aren’t you? My sweet thing. Mine. Mine. Mine.” He sucks small bruises along the insides of your thighs as punctuation. Leaving a physical representation of his sincerity for you to muse over if you ever wondered how he felt. He practically pulls your ass into his lap, tilting you with him as his form hovers over yours. Cock hot and heavy, he slowly rubs himself against you, sharing in your essence before pushing himself into your cunt. “Jesus FUCK,” you grit your teeth. “You really have to be so fucking huge don’t you?” “You really have to be so tiny?” He pants. “No matter how many times i fuck you-” he grunts and rocks himself back, “-still so tight-” he presses into you, bony vline meeting with the backs of your thighs with a deep sigh, “-but we always make it fit.” He nuzzles and kisses and dotes on you from your lips to your jaw to your shoulders. A big warm wolfish man curled over you protectively as the shared air heats between you. The burn of the stretch is fleeting, a flash that fades into pressure. The back of your throat empathetically choked by the depth he reaches inside of you. Although you know it isn’t possible, scientifically speaking, it feels like the head of his cock is pressing against the knot of your belly button with each readjustment of your bodies. You start to rock your hips, grinding your clit against him slightly, just enough to provide that pleasant floaty feeling of anticipation. The thud of your heartbeat has never felt so clear, magnified in your chest, pumping along in chorus with your ministrations. Slowly Mingi steadies you, palm resting heavy on your hip, leaning in closer to kiss you as he grabs a pillow from your side. Pulling you up to bridge your hips the pillow slips beneath your hips, propping you up just enough to ease the angle. “There we go, that’s better. Right?” He coos, thrusting into your slick warm heat. There’s an ease to each motion that comes with practice, with several bumps and bruises and early ends to sexpeditions, with knowing you. Really knowing you.

The slow drag churns your insides, summoning moans and groans. “It feels so good,” you mutter in wonderment. “Can you feel how much I love you, babe?” His thumb circles your clit eliciting another stifled moan. “Love you so fucking much. Wanna keep you all stuffed and happy every day of your life.” His pace increases as you flutter and clench around him. “You like that? Want me to take care of you, Princess?” You do. You like when he takes care of you but you hate to admit it. Even the part of you that wants to be worshiped like this feels a spark of shame that she isn’t doing more to please her man.

For what it’s worth Mingi loves watching you let go. The moment he finds the small spot with his cock that makes your eyelids flutter and mouth drop he knows he has you. It’s enough for him that you let him love you like this, steady and strong and without any need for showmanship. Getting to appreciate you without a sideways glare or smart retort in some act of both self deprecation and self defense. He finally feels worthy of the choked back whines you hold in your chest. Shuddering you cum around him without warning, cursing under your breath. Body buzzing your eyelids fall heavy into post orgasmic haze. “Mingi-” you mutter breathily. Even hearing his name so instinctively called has him fighting to keep focus. “Yeah honey?” “Cum, please,” you ask sweetly, face scrunched tightly as your thighs quiver and hips bridge. “Please,” you beg.

The tone of your voice speaks to some deep animalistic trigger in his brain. The whines coming from you driving his hips faster and faster. He doesn’t want to lose control like this but when you’re begging him who is he to refuse? “Fuck, really? So soon?” He’s panting and cursing as sweat drips between you. “Mhm, please- ah-AH-fuck- I need it.” Hands grappling his shoulders, you pull yourself to him, squeezing with every part of your body, grinding and grasping in some meager attempt to merge the two of you. Mingi holds you tightly as you do him while you cum, letting your walls work him to completion. His breathing stops, all noise caught in his throat as he pumps his cum deep into you. Air finally releases from his lungs with a shuddered low whine.

In the sudden silence of your bedroom you lay your head on his shoulder feeling the rise and fall of your chests. “You’ve gotten stronger.” “I’m training with Yeosang now.” He laughs, shaking the both of you. “I’m going to need to wear some more full coverage shirts at the gym tomorrow.” “Oh come on I didn’t break skin! Fuck me worse next time if you’re going to complain!” “Not a chance.” Both of you giggle. The sweat dries sticky on your back and thighs. Slowly you feel the telltale pins and needles in your ankles from sitting kneeling on top of him. The body origami you have to do isn’t graceful, a gloop of cum unceremoniously splurting forth from you. The gory aftermath of a good romp isn’t new to either of you. Mingi tries to hand you a tissue but you wave him off as you clench and waddle to the toilet.

Door open, he stands naked in the arch with a glass of water. “Here or bedroom?” “Isn’t it a little awkward to drink water while you’re…using the toilet?” “Bedroom.” “Nah give it, I’m tired.”

By the time you’re done cleaning yourself off he’s laying on top of the sheets in a clean pair of boxers, scrolling on his phone. The failed Valentine present feels so distant already as you snuggle into his side.

“You’re still sticky!” You whine. “We don’t have to cuddle.” With a pout you wrap your arm around his waist and squeeze the unflexed muscles. It’s just a normal night. Maybe that’s all it ever had to be.   

I SAID I WOULD COME BACK FOR THESE AND I WILL.

hope you enjoy and that it isn’t gotten by the tumblr police. give a like give a rb, with or without tags, feel free to send me asks or however you feel comfortable interacting!

[mischievouslittlecreature]

Part 14: Waiting for a Train

Fandom: Inception

Pairing: Robert Fischer x OC

Summary: She believed that death was the only escape. And now they are left to pick up the pieces she’s left behind.  

Word Count: 4,876 

Notes: Warnings for depictions of dissociation, character death, depression, grieving, and references to suicide.   

Previous Part • Series • Next Part

“Hey, have you talked to Mal recently?”

Alice frowned, peering into the microwave as she watched the popcorn she was making cook, phone held to her ear.

“Not recently, no. Why?” 

“I saw her and Cobb when they were visiting Miles in Paris,” Eames sighed. “She seemed…off.”

“Could it have something to do with the kids?”

“No, I don’t think so. It didn’t seem to be that sort of problem.”

“Hm,” she opened the microwave as it started to beep, scrunching her shoulder up so that she could hold the phone in place against her ear while using both hands to tear the popcorn bag open and empty it into a bowl. “I’ll give her a call. See if I can find out what’s up.”

“Great. Thanks.”

“Mhm. Look, I gotta go.”

“Movie night with the boyfriend, right?” Eames teased on the other end.

“Yeah, yeah, shut up,” she huffed good naturedly. Eames had all but insisted on taking credit for her relationship with Robert, considering that he was the one to convince her to return to Australia in the first place. “I’ll talk to you later. Oh! And tell Arthur that I said hi.”

“Will do. Chat later, Ace.”

She rolled her eyes fondly at the nickname. “Bye, Eames.”

Hanging up the phone, she grabbed the popcorn bowl, taking it to the living room where Robert was getting the movie they had selected loaded.

“How was Eames?” he asked, giving Cider a few scratches behind the ear when the cat jumped up on the couch to curl up next to him.

“Oh, fine. He wants me to check up on Mal.”

“Everything alright?”

“Oh, yeah. She’s probably just in one of her…moods. She’s always had dissociative problems,” she plopped down beside him. It was still a bit odd, to think that Robert had never even met any of her friends from her dream sharing days. They were just so damn busy all the time, and with everyone scattered to different parts of the globe, it was hard to find actual time to meet up. “I’ll call her tomorrow.”

She didn’t think any more of it, not after Robert wrapped an arm around her and the movie began to play. 

∗ ∗ ∗ 

“Hello?”

She was immediately struck with how exhausted Dom sounded on the other end of the line, instincts tensing at the feeling that something was wrong. “Hey, it’s Alice.”

“Alice…hi,” he said.

“Look, I was talking with Eames, and he said…”

“He said that Mal seemed off and that you should call to check in on her?” Dom guessed. Alice stopped, lips parting.

“Um, well, yeah. Something like that.”

“She can’t talk right now. But…”

“But what?”

“I don’t suppose that you would be in Los Angeles any time soon?”

“Actually, yeah. Robert and I fly out in two days. We have to shuttle back and forth from there and Sydney a lot for work,” she hesitated, a sudden anxiousness having gripped her by the throat. “I could come swing by to visit.”

“I think that would be good.”

“Okay. Okay, I’ll call you once we’re stateside to set up a day and time.”

“Alright.”

“Dom, are you okay?” she asked after a moment’s hesitation. The curt answers and heaviness in his voice was worrying her.

“It’s…I’ll explain once you’re here.”

She wanted to press, but decided it was better not to. “Okay.”

Hanging up the phone, she stared at it, resting in her palm for a long while.

Something was very, very wrong. 

∗ ∗ ∗ 

“Hi, Mal,” she said it quietly, cautiously. With almost none of the usual loud enthusiasm that she often used when greeting any of her friends. Dom had answered the door with a deep frown engraved on his face, dark bags under his eyes. The house was uncharacteristically quiet as she stepped inside. A coldness had washed over it, and the usual homeliness that was there whenever she visited had been replaced by a somber uneasiness. Like everyone in the household was holding their breath for something. He hadn’t responded to any of her quiet questions, simply leading her to the entrance of the kitchen with a silent gesture, leaving her at the threshold as he retreated towards his office.

It took Mal a long moment to respond, sitting at the kitchen table, one hand resting daintily on her face, the other fiddling with the spinning top between her fingers. “Alice. Hello. You’re here,” she said, voice spacey, like she wasn’t really paying attention. Like she wasn’t all there. Taking a few steps towards the table, Alice carefully slid into the seat adjacent to Mal, fingers intertwining in front of her.

“How are you?”

“Oh, fine,” Mal still had not fully looked at her, eyes remaining on the totem between her fingers, lips pursing.

“Are you sure?” Alice asked, brows furrowing. She had always felt that she could be blunt and straightforward with Mal. In the past, she had seen Mal in the throes of her dissociative phases. And while it hadn’t necessarily been a particularly pretty sight, she had never felt so…uneasy around her before.

Almost as if she were in danger. 

“So he’s brought you here to try to convince me,” Mal said, turning those large blue eyes onto Alice, blinking slowly. Alice stuttered.

“Convince you of what?”

Mal scoffed and turned away.

“Mal, I came here because Eames said he was worried about you.”

“He doesn’t believe me…” Mal lamented as she stared out the window. “He says…he says that I’m frightening the children…”

“Mal, what’s going on?” this was more than a dissociative episode. Even in the midst of those, Dom was always Mal’s anchor. Her safe place. Her person who she could cling to until reality righted itself in her mind again. They loved each other very, very much.

Suddenly, Mal was seizing her, hands startlingly tight as they squeezed her arms. “What are you? Hm? Are you a projection? Something he’s conjured up to try to convince me that I’m crazy? Or are you stuck in here with us too?”

Alice’s eyes widened. “Projection–? Mal, what are you talking about?”

“He says that I’m wrong. But I’m not wrong. I know I’m not. I’m not crazy, Alice.”

“Of course you’re not,” Alice tried to soothe. “But…Mal…Mal, do you think that we’re in a dream right now?”

“I know that we are!”

“Have you tested your totem?”

Mal’s face twitched, a furious expression Alice had never seen pass her face before suddenly etched into her features.

“Mal?” she questioned as she let Alice go, standing to pace around the kitchen counter.

“Whoever is controlling the dream knows how my totem works, so they’re able to mimic how it would behave in the real world,” Mal reasoned. 

“Okay,” Alice said slowly, reaching into her pocket. “Okay, let’s check mine, then,” pulling out the little silver pocket watch, she opened the covering to check the face. The second hand was running backwards. As it always did in the waking world. “Mal…my totem says that this isn’t a dream.”

“You sound just like him!” Mal said, bringing her hands down on the counter, bowing her head. “Alice…” she raised her head, expression desperate. “I have had this argument more times than I can count.”

“Mal…”

“We have…we have to get out. We have to escape. All of us. We have to…” Mal’s ramblings faded as her eyes wandered to land on the knife block sitting on the kitchen counter. Eyes growing wide as dinner plates, Alice rose from her seat, coming around the counter, to rest her hands on Mal’s shoulders.

“Mal, no. That’s not…we shouldn’t be talking about that unless we’re sure–”

“But I am sure!”

It was so startling, how far of a cry the woman in front of her was from the Mal that she knew. Mal had always been dreamy. Her mind often seemingly far away. But she was also controlled and level headed. Rational. 

Alice did not recognize the woman before her with the desperate, crazed eyes.

“Mal…”

Alice’s phone started to ring, a shrill sound that echoed throughout the kitchen. Jumping, she fumbled for it in her pocket, glancing at Robert’s name across the screen.

“I have to take this.”

Mal nodded, once, swallowing. Holding the phone to her ear, she kept one eye on Mal. Just in case.

“Robbie?”

“Hey, um,” he sounded on the verge of tears. “Uncle Peter just called me and there’s…there’s something going on with Dad.”

Oh, God. Now what?

“What happened?”

“I don’t…they’re not sure, yet. But he’s in the hospital in Sydney.”

Sighing, she rubbed a hand across her forehead. “Shit. Okay. I’m on my way back.”

“I’m going to tell them to get the plane ready.”

“Yeah. Good idea. I’ll be there soon, okay, sweetheart?”

“I’m sorry. You don’t have to leave your friends…”

“It’s alright,” it really wasn’t, but that was probably the last thing that he needed to hear at the moment. “I’ll see you soon.”

“Okay. Love you.”

“Love you too. Bye,” she hung up the phone.

“What’s wrong?” Mal asked. The cloudiness seemed to have lifted from her eyes, looking more like her old self.

“Robert’s father is an old man who has no business still being the head of a major corporation,” she said with a sigh. “He’s in the hospital, again,” stuffing her phone into her pocket, she went to Mal. “I have to go.”

Mal nodded, eyes wide and teetering on frightened. Alice squeezed her arm.

“I’ll call you, okay? And don’t…Mal, please, don’t…”

Mal looked at the ground.

“I’ll do some investigating, okay?” Alice said, hoping to appease her. That maybe, if she felt that Alice was taking her concerns seriously, she wouldn’t decide to do anything rash. “And then we can talk and compare our notes, okay?”

Mal nodded. “Alright.”

“And Dom just wants to help you,” she added. “He wants you to be okay.”

“I know,” Mal said, chewing on her bottom lip, ringing her hands together. “He won’t listen to me,” it clearly deeply upset her.

Alice knew that she needed to go; that Robert needed her. And yet still she hesitated, a feeling growing that she shouldn’t leave. That something terrible would happen if she did.

Perhaps she had been away from everything for too long. Her new job and life in Australia had made it difficult to stay in touch with her old friends. It had been ages since she’d seen any of them. And phone calls with everyone save for Eames had grown less and less regular. Though she doubted that her presence would have done much to help battle…whatever it was that Mal was dealing with in her head.

Mal sighed and patted her hand. “Don’t worry. Dom doesn’t believe me. And I can’t leave without him, so…”

That was something, at least. Alice wrapped her arms around her, squeezing her tightly. “It’s going to be okay, Mal.”

“I know,” she said, hugging her back. “Goodbye, Alice.”

The finality in which Mal seemed to say it alarmed her, but there wasn’t much more that she could do. “Bye, Mal,” Alice looked her up and down, one last time, and moved to the door. “Dom?” she called, knocking on the office door. “I have to go.”

“Go?” he appeared at the door a moment later. “You just got here.”

She rubbed at her forehead. “Yeah, I know. But Robert just called saying that his dad has a health problem, so we have to get back down to Sydney right away…” 

“Oh,” Dom nodded. “Yes, of course.”

“Dom…” she lowered her voice to a whisper. “What the hell?”

“I know…I know I’ll explain later, I promise–”

“She’s talking about committing suicide, Dom!”

“I know!” he snapped back, then took a deep breath reigning in his temper. “I know, Alice. I’ve tried everything and some days it seems like she’s getting better, but then…”

“I just…she’s had dissociative episodes before but nothing like this…”

“I know,” the defeated look that crossed his face was enough to get her to reach out, squeezing his shoulder.

“It’s your anniversary tomorrow, right?” she asked.

“Yeah. We’re leaving the kids with their grandparents for the night. Going to a hotel suite. I’m hoping…I don’t know. Maybe it will be good for her.”

“Well, I hope you two have a good time.”

“Thank you.”

“I’ll come back out as soon as I can,” she promised.

“Thank you. I would appreciate it.”

Nodding, she gave him a parting hug, rubbing his back. “Look after her.”

“Doing my best,” he said with a shrug. She gave him a sad smile and he walked her to the door, waving at her from the porch as she drove away.

∗ ∗ ∗ 

“How is he?”

Peter pinched at the bridge of his nose, clearly fighting back a headache. He didn’t look like he had slept.

“Stabilized, at least,” he said with a sigh. Beside her, Robert let out a relieved sound. She rubbed his back, taking note of the expression that passed across Peter’s face.

“But…?” she prompted.

“The doctors are telling him that he needs to step away from Fischer Morrow. Completely. The stress…it’s becoming too much for him,” Peter’s face was grave. “He’s refusing, of  course. Robert, I don’t suppose that you could try to convince him…”

“Since when has he ever listened to a word I’ve said?” Robert huffed, but at the look on Peter’s face, he sighed and nodded. “I’ll talk to him.”

“Thank you,” Peter gave a jerk of his head, beginning to lead them from the hospital waiting room. “His room is this way.”

Taking Robert’s hand and squeezing it, she gave him what she hoped was a reassuring smile that he tried to return, though it came out wobbly.

“I’ll wait out here,” she said, leaning against the wall across from Maurice’s door.

“You’re sure?” Robert asked.

“Yeah. Don’t want to agitate him further,” watching them go into the hospital room, she crossed her arms over her chest, frowning down at the floor.

Her phone began to buzz in her pocket and she made an annoyed sound, fishing it from her pocket, preparing to press the button to reject the call until she saw the contact name flashing across the screen.

“Arthur?” she asked, pressing the phone to her ear. 

“Alice? Alice, where are you? Are you still in Los Angeles?”

“What? No, I’m back in Sydney,” there was a strain to Arthur’s voice that alarmed her. Arthur was always the steady one. “Why? What’s going on?”

“Alice…” Arthur trailed off, and he heard him draw in a trembling breath from the other end of the line. “Alice, Mal’s dead.”

She blinked, breath sucking into her lungs and staying there as her lips parted. One hand came out to brace herself against the wall. “What?”

“She’s dead, Als. She…she jumped off a ledge at a hotel she and Cobb were staying at.”

“Oh…” she whispered, clapping a hand over her mouth, for a moment thinking that she might be sick. “Um, okay…I…what…”

“I’m at the airport in Munich waiting for my flight right now. Eames is flying in from France.”

“What about Cobb?”

Another sigh. “Okay, Alice. I need you to listen to me. Cobb’s…they think Cobb killed her.”

“What!?”

“The hotel room was trashed, like there had been a struggle, and apparently she filed a letter with their lawyer telling them that Cobb had threatened to kill her. She told him about it, before she jumped.”

“Jesus,” she muttered.

“They haven’t arrested him yet, but it’s only a matter of time. He’s trying to find a way out of the country, but I don’t think he’s going to be able to do it in time.”

“I…” she tried to force her head to stop spinning. To push away the waves of shock and grief in order to allow her to think. “I think that I could get him out.”

“You do?”

“Some of the executives of the company who live in Los Angeles have private planes. I might be able to cobble something together. I’ll have to talk to Robert about it.”

“You think he’ll help?”

“Yeah,” she said confidently. “If I ask him to, yeah.”

“Okay. Hurry. Me or Eames will call you once we’re stateside about the…funeral and everything.”

Nodding, she squeezed her eyes shut. “Okay…” her voice broke a little at the end of the word.

Arthur made a sound of distress on the other line. “I just don’t understand why she would have…”

“I do,” Alice said, nausea twisting in her gut. “I know why she did it.”

“You do?”

“I’ll tell you later.”

“Alright. Talk soon.”

“Yeah.”

“And Alice?” he hesitated a moment, and then just said, “take care of yourself.”

Her face crumpled. “You too.”

Hanging up, she rested one hand over her eyes, feeling her chest begin to shutter as she started to cry softly to herself. Behind her, the door to the hospital room creaked open.

“Alice?”

Her attempt to bite back a sob was rather unsuccessful, Robert’s hand finding her shoulder, turning her towards him.

“Sweetheart, what’s wrong?”

She just flung her arms around his middle and hugged him tight to her. He hugged her back, clearly concerned and confused.

“I need you to do something for me,” she whispered into his chest.  

∗ ∗ ∗ 

“It’s done,” Robert told her, hanging up the phone. “All he has to do is get in the car with our guy and they’ll get him to the airport and on a plane.”

Alice nodded, staring out the window. Spooky had curled up in her lap, as if sensing her distress, while Cider pressed against her side. Fingers stroking through the cat’s hair, she sniffled.

“Thank you.”

Setting the phone down, Robert sat down on the couch next to her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders and pulling her into his chest.

“You want to tell me why I just helped get a wanted criminal out of the United States?” the question wasn’t spoken unkindly, but she could hear the clear curiosity that was there.

“Dom didn’t kill Mal,” she said, wiping at her nose.

“That I figured.”

She had already told him about Mal’s strange behavior on the plane when they were flying back to Sydney. “I’ll have to find out more from Dom about what was going on, but…Mal always had problems with dissociation. That was why she came up with the totem concept. But this time she was convinced, despite what her totem was saying, that she was still in a dream. That death was the only escape.”

“But why would she frame him for her suicide?”

“She didn’t want to leave without him,” Alice said, softly. “She wanted him to feel like he didn’t have a choice but to go with her,” she sniffled. Robert squeezed her.

“I’m so sorry, sweetheart.”

Laying her head more firmly against him, she closed her eyes. “I should have stayed. Maybe, if I had…”

“This isn’t your fault,” he said, firmly tilting her head up to look into his stern blue eyes. “Okay?” he kissed her forehead. “Come here.”

She let him pull her as deep into his arms as was physically possible, listening to his soothing, gentle voice as he tried to calm her.

Trying her hardest to believe him.  

∗ ∗ ∗ 

“Eames,” she pushed past a few black-clad mourners to get to him, and he immediately wrapped her in one of his familiar bear hugs, squeezing her tightly.

“Hey, Ace.”

Arthur was standing next to him, and embraced her as soon as she separated from Eames.

“No boyfriend?” Eames asked curiously. She shook her head.

“He had to stay in Sydney to take care of his dad.”

Robert had wanted very badly to go with her, but in the end it just wasn’t feasible. Someone needed to stay to keep an eye on the company and Maurice.

They began to all file into the funeral venue. They were greeted briefly by Miles, his face solemn and haggard. Beside him, his wife was fussing over Phillipa and James, their tiny faces drawn downwards as they looked at their mother’s coffin. Gulping down the lump in her throat, Alice fiddled with her fingers as she followed Arthur and Eames to their seats. It was a closed casket funeral.

She started crying about halfway through the ceremony. Eames rubbed her shoulder while Arthur squeezed her knee. She couldn’t have been more grateful for them. Without Robert with her, she needed the comfort of her friends’ presence more than ever.

“It was a nice ceremony,” Arthur commented as they walked from the cemetery. 

“Yeah, it was,” Alice agreed, still dabbing at her eyes. Eames grunted in acknowledgement, hands shoved into his pockets.

“You guys want to go get some lunch?” Arthur suggested.

“Yeah.”

“Okay.”

They had just sat down and ordered when both Arthur and Eames turned to her expectantly. 

“She thought that she was still in a dream,” Alice explained, figuring that the most straightforward version of the story was probably the best. “I visited her and Dom a day or so before she died, and…she was rambling about being stuck in a dream and not believing her totem and how we needed to…escape.”

“Jesus,” Eames muttered, leaning back against the booth. “She say why she thought that?”

Alice shook her head. “No.”

“She’s had dissociative problems for as long as I’ve known her,” Arthur chimed in.

“No, I’ve been thinking about that, and…I don’t know, guys. It seemed like it was more than that,” she shrugged.

“He and Mal were still conducting experiments,” Arthur said. “Maybe that had something to do with it.”

 “I’ll ask Dom about it, when I see him again.”

Both Eames and Arthur mumbled in agreement, all three of them growing silent as the waiter came by with their food.

“I don’t suppose there would be a way for your billionaire boyfriend to wave a magic wand and get Cobb’s charges cleared?” Eames said after the waiter had left, taking a sip of his coffee. Alice shook her head.

“He doesn’t have that kind of pull. At least not in the American criminal justice system. His father might, but there’s no way Maurice would help us.”

They all looked down at their hands regretfully, in a combination of silent mourning and contemplation. 

∗ ∗ ∗ 

Sighing, exhaustion heavy and deep in his bones, Robert pushed open the front door, inputting the code for the alarm system. Shrugging off his suit jacket, he smiled as Cider came padding up to greet him with a meow.

“Hi, Ci,” he said, bending to give her a few pets along the back before heading towards the kitchen, frowning at how dark the house still was. Alice was supposed to have gotten home from the airport by now. She’d called him when her plane had landed. “Alice?”

He found her sitting on the floor, back leaning against the wall adjacent to the bar. Spooky was curled up next to her, looking after her watchfully. In one hand, she clutched a bottle of wine, only about one fourth the way full. Her cheeks were red and puffy, eyes bloodshot. 

“Alice…” sitting down beside her, he took the bottle from her gently, her fingers slipping away with ease. Her grip on it had been loose in the first place. Glancing down at the label, he raised an eyebrow. “Strong stuff, sweetheart.”

Alice’s bottom lip started to tremble, and then she was crying again, burying her face in her hands. “I’m so sorry.”

“Oh, no, Alice. It’s okay,” he put the bottle aside and pulled her to him, letting his chin rest against the top of her head. “It’s okay, sweetheart.”

He repeated the phrase over and over, rocking her gently from side to side as she continued to cry. His poor girl. She didn’t deserve any of this.

“It was my fault. I should have–I should have stayed with her. I shouldn’t have left her and Dom alone. And…and…and now I drank all your wine,” the way that she all but wailed the last part would have been hysterical had the rest not been so saddening. 

“No, no, honey, it wasn’t your fault. You did nothing wrong, okay? There’s no guarantee that you would have been able to stop Mal even if you had stayed,” he leaned back to wipe away her tears. “And I really don’t care about the wine. It's a shitty label anyway,” he gave her a half smile to reassure her, and she left out a tiny, hiccupping sound that might have been the beginnings of a laugh. “Come on. Let’s get you to bed,” he scooped her up bridal style into his arms, head tilting against her as she wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face into his shoulder.

He got her into the bedroom and out of her clothes and into her pajamas, laying her down on the bed and pulling the blankets up around her.

“Get over here and comfort her, you furballs,” he said affectionately to the cats who had wandered in after him, patting the space next to Alice until they both jumped up to cuddle against her, purring. He changed out of his own clothes, pulling on a pair of sweatpants and crawling into bed next to her, tugging her closer until she was laying on his chest.

“I’m sorry,” she said, again.

“Stop apologizing,” Robert soothed, kissing her eyelids. “It’s okay.”

“I love you,” she sniffled. He rubbed her back, suddenly feeling very helpless, wishing that he could somehow make everything better for her.

“I love you too.”  

∗ ∗ ∗ 

“Dom, I need you to tell me what really happened to Mal,” Alice said, staring at his back where he was leaning against the railing of the balcony. She was sitting at the little table in his hotel suite, fingers drumming against the surface. He had greeted her with little more than a weak hug and a mumbled hello. Her condolences met with just a grunt.

“I know that you didn’t kill her,” she clarified quickly. “But I know that what was going on with her was more than just a dissociative episode.”

When he didn’t respond, she sighed, standing from the table and going out onto the balcony.

“Arthur said that you and her were still experimenting,” she tried to prompt. “Did something happen…?”

Still, nothing. Her temper spiked.

“Considering that I just saved your ass from being imprisoned, I think I deserve to know just what the hell happened.”

Dom’s head bowed, as if weighed down by something heavy and terrible, before he finally lifted it to look at her. “You’re right,” he said. “We were…experimenting. With depth. I wanted to see just how many layers deep we could go.”

Her brows pinched together. “You didn’t end up in limbo, did you?” 

His silence was answer enough.

“Jesus, Dom.”

“I know,” he looked down again, then gave her a humorless smile. “And that isn’t even the worst of it.”

“What do you mean?”

“We were…we were there for a long, long time, Alice.”

“How long?”

“Long enough to grow old together,” he said, voice deeply wistful. Reaching out, she rested a hand on his arm. “Mal…she lost herself, down there. Limbo became reality to her. And I couldn’t get her to let go.”

“So…” Alice frowned.

“Do you remember the concept that I taught you about, back when we were in France? About not stealing an idea from a person’s mind, but planting one instead?”

“Inception,” she said, nodding. “Yes, I remember,” staring at Dom, the realization began to hit her in one massive, terrible wave. “Oh, Dom…what did you do?”

“I thought…I thought that the idea would just be there until we got out of limbo. And then everything would be fine.”

“What idea was it?”

“That her world wasn’t real. That…”

“Death was the only escape,” she finished for him. Between them, a mournful silence stretched on forever. “The idea followed her even after she woke up,” it wasn't a question.

Dom was fiddling with something between his fingers. It was Mal’s little spinning top, turning over and over between his fingers.

“You’re waiting for a train. A train that will take you far away. You know where you hope this train will take you, but you don’t know for sure. But it doesn’t matter…because you’ll be together.”

“Who said that?” Alice asked, searching her mind for the author of the quote. 

“I did,” Dom flashed her a sad smile. “To Mal. God, I killed her, Alice.”

Shaking her head back and forth, she hugged his shoulders. “You were trying to save her.”

“Yeah,” it was clear from his tone that he didn’t fully believe her. “I’m going to head out tomorrow for Europe. Arthur’s got a job lined up for us.”

“Okay,” Alice nodded. “Well,” she cleared her throat, awkwardly. “Let me know if you need anything.”

“I will.”

Giving his shoulder one last squeeze, she began to head for the door.

“Alice?”

She turned back.

“Thank you.”

Nodding, she offered him a small smile.

“Of course.”   

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Thank you for reading! Please consider leaving a comment, reblog, or like. I always appreciate feedback and love getting the opportunity to interact with you and hear your thoughts!

[madridfangirl]

Star crossed lovers (Jude Bellingham fic)

Ch 14 - Blurb

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‘The things I do for lov…’

Ananya froze. Suddenly very alert. While Jude was still lost in her scent.

She shut her eyes, firmly. Burying her head in the sand like as ostrich. As if that would make the last few seconds not real. As if she could go back in time & change what she nearly said.

It couldn’t be, could it?

Surely it was a slip. Surely she couldn’t have meant to say THAT word. How could she, when they hadn’t even been together for two months yet? Last time it had taken her six months to come near this feeling. It was too soon. WAY TOO SOON.

From the way Jude was happily sighing behind her, babbling something incoherent as his lips traced the back of her neck, she could tell he hadn’t heard any of it. Some respite, at least.

But the numbness refused to leave her body. She was still, like a statue. Only moving due to Jude’s movements behind her. 

After a few moments, he noticed it too, and tried to turn her around. But she resisted.

‘Dove?’

The fondness and care in his voice was too much to bear. His proximity was too much to bear.  The warmth of his touch, his breath on the back of her neck were all too much to bear. She suddenly wanted to bolt out of the room but that would alarm Jude in a thousand different ways. So she took the easy way out.

‘Feeling a bit uneasy. Be back in a bit.’

She removed his arm from around her and headed straight to the washroom, keeping her back to him throughout. Not letting her see him. 

He sensed something was off but attributed it to exhaustion, and let her have a few moments in peace.

Jude picked up his phone, and saw a few messages from his teammates checking in on him. Of course the word would have spread, since he left in a rush and said it was an emergency. He’ll have to come up with a story on the way back, something that doesn’t invite too many questions.

Ananya sat down on the covered toilet seat and buried her head in her hands. Her heart was going at a million miles per second, practically threatening to burst out of her chest.

She knew what it was like to be in love. She had been in love before. But last time, it was gradual. She could tell the signs, the milestones along the way. They had met in college, were classmates, then friends, then more than friends and then ultimately fell in love. Everyone around them saw where it was going from very early on, but the two of them had taken their time. Not rushing into anything. Letting feelings develop & grow over time. Letting destiny take its course. And when the confession happened, it felt like it was a long time coming. Like it was always meant to be this way. 

Was this, with Jude……….like that in any way?

Ananya started pacing around the small space, trying to analyse her feelings. Trying to logically break it down.

Her brain was leaning towards a no. 

They had known each other for only two months. Too short a time to develop such strong feelings. They hadn’t spoken about many crucial things which would be a core part of life if they actually do decide to…..be together like that. To think of a future like that. At the end of the day, falling in love was also a conscious decision, right? Some part of your brain allows you to take that step at some point along the way. The head over heels stuff was only for the movies. Real life didn’t work that way. Actions have consequences in real life, with real people involved, who can get hurt in unimaginable ways due to this torturous feeling. So yes, it was a conscious decision. Had to be, right?

And she didn’t remember making that decision in this case. Her brain hadn’t given her that signal that now the waters have been tested enough, and it was okay to take this massive leap of faith where she could either fly or fall face first in a deep, treacherous valley. So how could tihs be love? How could she possibly feel that way for him?

Her heart had a mind of its own though.

No logic stood a chance when it came to matters of the heart. Unfortunately, she knew that all too well. Had first hand experience of it. 

If it wasn’t love, why did she yearn to comfort him always? Why did his pain physically affect her senses? Why did his smile uplift her spirits? Why did she feel this gravitational pull towards him? Wanting to be in his arms - his safe, warm, steady arms? Why did a single message / call from him completely change the way her day was going otherwise? Why was she always looking for ways (even cutting corners sometimes) to be able to spend more time with him? Why did she secretly beam with pride every time he was on the pitch? Why was his individual performance starting to become as big a thing she stressed over as the overall result for her favourite club? 

Her brain had no answer to all this. Like she knew it wouldn’t. 

But she also remembered what happened the last time her heart had overruled her brain so decisively. When she was falling for her ex. At that time, they seemed poles apart. But now, in comparison to her & Jude, they were the perfect match.

Her heart had won. And it led to PAIN. Sheer, absolute, heartbreaking pain. The naiveté of first love, of assuming this would be it, the joy of finding the boy of your dreams, the realisation that you never wanted to be close to any other like this. Because how could anyone else make you feel this way? It seemed impossible.

All for that boy to promise the moon and then walk away at the first sign of trouble. Saying it’s too hard. That they were too different. That they wanted different things from life. No relationship could ever survive when only one person was fighting for it. Hers didn’t either.

And here she was, on the precipice of that freefall again.

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A lot more happens in this chapter, pls pray that I find the time to finish it soon :)

(Series Link)

[adamwatchesmovies]

John Wick Chapter 3 - Parabellum (2019)

John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum features some of the series’ most inventive, most satisfyingly kill-happy scenes. Its plot also tends to get in the way, particularly during the middle. At 131 minutes, this relatively straightforward story is far too long, though the sequel - set to be released in 2023 - could change that. If all of the new characters introduced throughout pay off later, this film may seem less bloated than it does now.

Excommunicated from the secret society of assassins whose operatives are everywhere, John Wick (Keanu Reeves) is now on the run with a $14 million bounty on his head. Seeking to escape the innumerable mercenaries on his tail, he begins cashing in favors from his former allies. Unfortunately, even those only take him so far.

It’s hard to pick which of this film’s many action scenes is the best. There’s one set in a library where John uses a thick tome in a way you’ve never seen before. This man really can use ANYTHING to fill another grave. If I were to choose, I think I’d have to go with another sequence, however. It’s set in a museum full of knives, axes, and other edge weapons. The choreography as the glasses cases are broken and the weapons are taken out is unbelievable. It’s so good you can’t turn away, even when someone gets their brutal comeuppance.

There’s more to Parabellum than just seeing John execute wave after wave of killers, however. There’s a plot that digs deeper into the world of the High Table. We learn more about who John was before he met Helen. More of the inner workings of the society are shown through “The Adjudicator” (Asia Kate Dillon) and several assassins who want to take down John… because they’re huge fans of his. It confirms our suspicions: the Continental is merely a piece of this huge society that operates as a world of its own. From the tattoo-clad Operators to the Concierge of the Continental Hotel (Lance Reddick) to the Bowery King (Laurence Fishburne) and his legions of turncoats dressed up like vagrants on every street corner, it makes so little sense it makes perfect sense.

One of the defining features of the series has been its New York location. John is always on the run - either chasing or escaping from someone. This means we’ve visited many of the city’s landmarks and several have been given a new identity within this world. This is one of the reasons why an extended sequence where John travels to Casablanca is off-putting. Though Sofia Al-Azwar (Halle Berry) is an interesting character with a fighting style all of her own, did this movie really need to travel all the way to Morocco? In the end, you know John’s business will have to be settled back in New York anyway, so all of these meetings he has with the Berrada (Jerome Flynn) and with the “Elder” (Saïd Taghmaoui) seem unnecessary. It’s cool for the movie to have aspirations to be more than an action film but some of this feels like it would fit better in a spinoff movie. I’m saying this because this road through the desert brings us to a movie pet peeve of mine: someone loses a finger. This sort of injury creates a wall between the story and the audience. We know they didn’t REALLY chop off the actor’s digit so in every scene from then on, your eyes always drift back to their hand to see if you can spot a gaffe. The finger is taken off as a display of fealty but it could’ve been done a thousand different ways. Why this?

John Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum may be the least of the series but it also contains action scenes so good they make what we saw earlier seem like nothing. Those opening moments, in particular, will knock your socks off, so much that even if the film drags towards the middle, you’ll still be entranced by this ballet of blood and bullets. This is an ambitious film with spectacular martial arts set pieces, the likes of which most other action franchises could only dream of. (June 24, 2022)

[lunarsun12]

Youngest Card

Masterlist

Chan has his day off, he was in cafe with Shownu. To catch up with him, as chan was worried about Shownu situation with his kids, as one of them is still missing. Those two were enjoying some time together, until Chan phone buzzed and saw an email saying his 9yr old to pick up his coupon.

Chan has to keep it cool, in front of Shownu. As he is freaking out, as Lee Know adopted another child without his permission. Chan has to come up with an excuse, to leave the cafe. To deal with the problem

However karma has got to Chan, leaving him being very embarrassed…

Back At Stray Kids Chat

Today 14:00

Bangchan🐺: LEE KNOW! DID YOU ADOPT ANOTHER CHILD!? Please say no

Lee Know🐱: No I didn’t! It was not me who wanted children in the first place. You have a higher chance!

Bangchan🐺: I said four is enough…then you suddenly bought two kids without my permission! It got to be you

Lee Know🐱: Look! If you in my shoes you will adopt Lix and Innie! Don’t act like Lix is not your favourite

Bangchan🐺: Not again…we moved on from the favourite thing

Bangchan🐺: G E T RID OF THE KID! Before I burn your cats cat tower for real this time

Lee Know🐱: HOW DARE YOU! I said I am innocent! How many times do I need to get it through your thick skull!!

Seungmin🐶: Or due to poor eyesight as he is old 😂

Changbin🙄: What got Appa mad this time? He really needs to chill…

I.N🦊: I wonder who broke Appa…

Han🐿️: HEY! It was not my fault! I was running away from the butt slapper! My butt got v i o l a t e d

Han🐿️: Lix that wasn’t cool, when you left me to fend for myself!!

Felix☀️: You left me with Binnie and his friend….you know the one who is now my Appa! This is payback

Changbin🙄: You and the butt slapper are besties now! Lix did you a favour

Seungmin🐶: Not for Appa…he broke down after Han made a huge scene. Completely embarrassing him!

Seungmin🐶: FYI, Han was slapping people butts around. As he forgot what the person who slapped him looks like

Hyunjin🕺: IS EOMMA AND APPA DIVORCING! OMG CONGRATS!!

Lee Know🐱: Trust me hyunjin…if I could divorce you Appa I could…

Bangchan🐺: STOP CHANGING TOPIC!! Your Eomma decided to adopt a 9 year old kid he/she IDK! THIS IS STRESSFUL

Bangchan🐺: I got an email saying, I need claim a free snack coupon for my 9year old!!

Bangchan🐺: Last time I checked! I have no 9yr old!

Seungmin🐶: Oh that’s for me! Appa could you claim it for me!

Bangchan🐺: What!? Seungmin you are definitely not 9yr old!! Why did you lie!

Seungmin🐶: Someone was being stingy with the money, when me and Han went to the movie. I saw under 12 got in for free…so I said I am 9 and they believed me

Bangchan🐺: I gave you two the movie money…seungmin what did you do with your money

Seungmin🐶: I’m saving my money for college. As I am the only person who will ever get in

Bangchan🐺: Seungmin! You not supposed to lie! What have I taught you!

Seungmin🐶: You taught me that, when you lied you were five…to sneak in line for the Big bang concert

Bangchan🐺: I did no such thing!

Hyunjin🕺: So seungmin is 9? I did not know that! He is tall for his age!

I.N🦊: Are you dumb!? Seungmin of course is not 9!! He is using Appa trick apparently…

Hyunjin🕺: Oh y’all making fuss because…Appa always uses he is five card to get in line to any concerts! I had to pretend to be his parent!

Lee Know🐱: This is hilarious! Finally chan does something wrong! I gotta screen shoot all of it for memories!

Bangchan🐺: Why you kids have good memories now!? And suddenly have bad memories when I asked who broke my lightstick!

Felix☀️: That not the worst part…he used me-

Bangchan🐺: That enough Felix! I can’t let them know I made Felix to pretend to be a baby…to get a father discount

Lee know🐱: Chan you supposed to sorry when you done something bad. Just so no kid to pick your bad habits…

Bangchan🐺: Don’t do a me card! I’m the one who makes people apologised not the other way round!

Bangchan🐺: I’m sorry for accusing you of adopting another kid…happy!?

Lee Know🐱: I will be happy…if you let me buy that litter box :))

[footballerimaginess]

Prompt List

These prompts are taken from @novelbear and @scealaiscoite, @corvase they were all such amazing prompts. Thank you so much for creating some insane prompts. 

author’s note: One player per prompt, please send in the player’s name and the prompt number you want. Remember I write for most players, I’ve stopped writing for a select few, please ask away if you need any questions.  crossed out prompts means they are taken, don’t request these. Thank you x  1. "did i make you uncomfortable?" "no! no, it just caught me off guard. i like it a lot actually..." 

2. "you only call me that when we're alone.." "would you like me to say it louder~"

3. sending the scary "we need to talk." text

4. "my door is always open." "seriously?" "for you, yes."

5. “why do you seem upset?” “why the hell do you think...”  6. “when you realise what the problem is, then you can talk to me”   

7. “This is all new to me, I’m sorry” “me too, [name], don’t worry, we’re in this together”  8. "oh god, please don't tell me i fell asleep." 9. "forget what i said about you only picking this movie because of how hot the lead actor is- i get it now." 10. "you fell asleep about halfway through. it was kind of cute." 11. “darling?” “what? you don’t like it?”  12.  “let me walk you home. i’d feel better if i knew you got back safe.” 13.  “get up, you’re snoring and I can’t hear the movie”. “then turn it up...” “so you can yell at me for waking you up? no!” “you woke me up anyway!” 14.  “uh-uh, no more reading before bed, you keep waking me up with your dramatic gasps every time you turn the page” “well, i’m sorry that i engage and connect deeply with literature!”  15. “take an extra jacket, it’s cold out” “okay, mum”  16. “you’ve been talking about this crush for months now, when you are going to just go for it?” “i don’t think i can...” 17. pulling all nighters to talk to one another  18. when they both finally confess to one another, they laugh and realise all the different cues they’ve been oblivious to the entire time  19. “you really aren’t making this any easier.” “as if you are?” 

20. “you put this here on purpose!” “okay, for once, i wasn’t trying to put you in any danger.

21. “you look so cute” “i’m literally in my pyjamas but okay”  22. “we swear we saw you leave their place last night” “that must’ve been someone else”  23. gently pressing a kiss to their cheeks as they rest because you can't help it, they just look so peaceful 24. “that was supposed to be me and you out there” 25.  “did you just put my hoodie in the wash?!” “yeah..” “love, my phone was in there” 26. “come here, hold my hand” “you’re washing the dishes,” “..i can do both..”  27.  “don’t call me. don’t text me. don’t ask my friends about me. don’t even think about me.” 28. “you got hurt? why didn’t your teacher tell me?” 29.  “i’m not gonna lie and say everything is going to be okay, because it’s probably not, but what i do know is that we’re going to get through this together.” 30.  “come on, we can’t do this all day. 31.  “want a distraction?” 32. “You deserve to sit back and let someone care about you for once.” 33.  “i know we don’t know eachother well, but i can give you my number and you can talk to me whenever you need..” 34. “Just say it was an accident!” “You kissed me!” 35. painting the walls together. no talking. just kind of enjoying eachother’s company as they focus and music plays in the background. 36. “i sincerely apologize for everything that i’ve said in the last thirty seconds.”  37. “i wasn’t trying to be rude…thanks.” 38. one character covering the other with a blanket when they fall asleep watching a movie on the couch 39. making tea or coffee for their love interest before bed (and just the fact that they know exactly how they like their tea and coffee swooon) 40. “do you want to stay the night?” 41.  “Oh honey, you look exhausted come here…” 42. “i shouldn’t have said it…i know.” “then why did you?” 43. “you look like you’re going to fall asleep on your feet.” 44. “this is like the fifth time you’ve yawned in two minutes 45. Finding little toys and items they used to love when they were little and getting all emotional 46. “why do you treat me so different? i see how you are with your friends and it’s like an entirely different.” 47. “how do i look? do you think i overdressed for a [event]?” “no, you look perfect. 48. “did you get me flowers?” “it was for decoration” “..in my room?” 49. when the other holds onto their waist briefly as they’re passing by and it just send chills down their spine 50. “i invited them over” “shut up, you did not.” 51. “so…are you finally going on that date or….?” 52. “you were my best friend. now you’re just some distant old acquaintance passing by”  53. ' i told you not to break my heart, and that's exactly what you did.' 54. “i’ll still be here when you wake up, i promise.” 55.  “you drove all the way over here because i forgot my lunch?” “i wasn’t just gonna let you go all day without eating…” 56.  “you left without giving me my goodbye kiss, why do you think i’m mad?” 57. watching their camera roll get full of the other as they spend more and more time together 58. “i wasn’t sure how much longer i could have taken this…” 59. “i never thought i’d see you again…” 60. you still wear that little bracelet i made you?” “it’s like my good luck charm..”

[moviemunchies]

The first review I saw for this movie said that it wasn’t brilliant, but that it was great fun. Then a bunch of reviews poured out saying that it was pretty bad, and I wasn’ sure what to think.

Maybe it’s better to go into a movie with no expectations?

Aquaman: The Lost Kingdom picks up after the events of the first Aquaman. Arthur is king of Atlantis now, he’s married Mera and has a young son who he raises at his father’s lighthouse. Things aren’t simple, though; the Council of Atlantis doesn’t let him institute all the changes he’d like, especially as they still don’t respect him for his half-human heritage. The world is also becoming considerably more polluted, causing a plague among Atlanteans. And Black Manta, hoping to repair his equipment with the help of Dr. Shin, has stumbled upon an ancient Atlantean artifact that will give him an edge over Aquaman.

Alright, so! One of the most talked about things regarding this movie was Amber Heard’s role as Mera, considering she had a very public trial in 2022 regarding her marriage to Johnny Depp, in which public opinion was violently against her despite the UK’s High Court of Justice ruling in 2020 that 12 out of 14 incidents of violence by Depp were “substantially true.” I did not follow that 2022 trial–that is not the sort of thing I think people should watch as entertainment, and I have better things to do than follow a trial regarding domestic abuse as if it was entertainment. 

All the same, people wondered how much Mera would be in the movie, if at all. The answer: she’s not in that much of the movie. She’s not a non-person in the film, and does a lot in the climactic battle at the end. All the same, it is really weird that the first quarter of the movie deals so heavily with Arthur’s home life, and his raising his son, and his wife is barely in those portions? And with almost no lines? One would think that the mother of his child would be more vocal and more a part of the storyline, wouldn’t you? It’s a little awkward, and I think there was more here that was probably cut. I would have appreciated her being in more of the movie, considering her personality and prominence in the first one.

And speaking of those early sections: I don’t know how I feel about Arthur’s suitability as king. Part of the conflict between Arthur and Orm is that Orm doesn’t think Arthur has what it takes to be king. YMMV on whether he does, but the movie makes it clear that a lot of Atlantis doesn’t accept him as a king. Season four of Young Justice did something similar in its Atlantis arc, and resolves it in an interesting way. This movie only has it so… Arthur remains king and overrules his council, I guess? It didn’t seem adequately resolved.

I will say, though, that I think Manta’s character arc is one of my favorite supervillain arcs in a cinematic universe? Let’s be real here, Marvel generally sucks at making a coherent, movie-to-movie character arc, especially for villains. Black Manta doesn’t have that problem though–his actions here follow his characterization in the first movie, and I like how even when he’s making bad choices, they’re choices that make sense for him. Also, he looks really cool and has laser eyes.

Orm, on the other hand, evolved in an interesting way. He’s a villain in the first movie, sure, though he’s played a lot more sympathetically than he is in, say, the Justice League cartoon series or Young Justice. Here, he has to team up with Aquaman to save Atlantis from Manta, in an interesting but not too out-there twist. I think he gets off a bit lightly–the man did start a war, after all, and no matter how much he cares about Atlantis, it’s a difficult thing to forget. It certainly works better than Malcolm Merlyn’s “complex” character arc in Arrow, because at least Orm was explicitly trying to murder the poor people in his community. I suppose it helps that Orm was raised in a culture that’s explicitly unhealthy in its outlook on sovereignty and international policy? And overcoming that is part of his arc here?

[There’s one point in which Arthur even calls him ‘Loki’, which felt a bit too on-the-nose, considering how similar of a Plot this movie had to Thor: The Dark World.]

It is fun, though, I suppose. Maybe I’m working too hard to make Orm’s character arc into something it’s not.

I think that some people might be bothered by how the Plot heavily involves pollution and global warming? I don’t think it’s too much of a problem. Yes, it’s heavy-handed; however, this is exactly the sort of thing that Aquaman is supposed to care about. And it’s often pointed out as the source of conflict between Atlantis and the surface world. I don’t mind it being part of this movie.

The tone of this movie is pretty light, which I don’t think is bad, though at the same time I found myself thinking several times, “Well, they wouldn’t go that far, would they?” It means that the movie is loads of fun to watch, while at the same time the stakes don’t quite feel as real. There’s very little I was actually afraid of happening to the characters. YMMV on whether that hurts your experience too much.

There are still plenty of cool action scenes, too. I am always happy to see these guys fight with tridents, and towards the end there’s a duel between Aquaman and Manta that I really enjoyed. There are less massive battles, and giant sea monsters, which is a bit of a bummer, though there are still huge monsters, chase scenes, and jaunts through Atlantis.

There was a persistent rumor that Batman would be in this movie in some capacity. Following The Flash, and the rebooting of the DC universe, it flip-flopped between being Michael Keaton and Ben Affleck. As it turns out, no version of Batman appears in this movie, and honestly I can’t think of how he’d fit in, so it’s probably for the best.

I think this is a good movie, though not as good as the first one. It’s more fun than it is actually well-written, though I don’t think there’s anything bad in it. Maybe it’s hard to look at positively for some, as DC is throwing away this continuity; either way, that’s not this movie’s fault, and I had a good time watching it.