#maybe yours is cooler i would love to borrow it!

[la-pheacienne]

Hi! Just dropping by to say that Elia Martell's death has one main narrative purpose, and that is to make us question the previously almost undisputed legitimacy of the new post-Targaryen order! Thanks bye

[enbysiriusblack]

Sirius was in the middle of taping a dung bomb underneath a desk in Flitwick's empty classroom when Peter spoke.

"You going home for the holidays?"

Sirius easily slid out from under the desk, folding his arms on the top as he glanced over to Peter, "Nah. I'll probably go to James' instead. See how long it takes them to come drag me back themselves instead of sending that wretched Kreature."

Peter nodded, "I might come join you, Mum's place is always packed during winter."

Sirius grinned, "Brilliant", he climbed over the table and jumped off it, "We can spend Yule together."

Peter smiled back, "Yeah. The Potter's made you your own guest room right?"

"Oh, I forgot you haven't seen it! It's much cooler than my room at Grimmauld Place."

"Oh, no naked women?"

Sirius laughed, "Absolutely not. Maybe I want my mother to have a fit, but definitely not Mia. But Monty got me these proper band posters and there's this huge Queen one over my bed, and last summer when I flooed to the Potter's, me and James stole this traffic cone so that's in there. Oh, and Mia met me in Camden as well and she got me all these muggle clothes and Marlene built me a cupboard to put it all in."

"It sounds nice, can't wait to see it."

Sirius grabbed Peter's hand to drag him to the next classroom, "Merlin, neither can I. And you can borrow any of it, of course. I actually got a guitar for when you come over."

"You got a guitar? What kind?"

Sirius shrugged, "Fender Strat, I think. You'll play it right? I love hearing you play."

Peter beamed, "Course, I will."

Sirius tousled Peter's hair before glancing at his bag of dung bombs, "Only got a few left", he sighed.

Peter held his hand out, "Pass them here, I was thinking if we put them on the doors instead and leave them open then the smell would reach to a further distance."

Sirius instantly perked up, grabbing Peter's face and quickly giving him a kiss before turning to the windows, "Make sure all the windows are shut as well!"

Peter, cheeks still bright red, walked over to shut the remaining open windows.

[weirdgenetic-fuckup]

hiiii i have a request <3 can u do one where reader is axl’s little sis and she goes to high school with izzy & axl and reader has a massive crush on izzy but izzy is strictly off limits bcuz of axl so they sneak away during school and izzy is more experienced than reader bcuz she’s inexperienced so he’s basically like teaching her things and corrupting her…maybe smut😏😏& one day axl catches them and throws a fit but then accepts it bcuz reader loves izzy <333🎀💞💞ty & i love ur writing !!! :))

A/n: I like the way I wrote this but I didn't add Axl catching them because there came an ending and I couldn't think of a way to add to it naturally, if you want a part two I can make one I just liked the way this was written lol

Warnings: Smut, fingering (f receiving), semi public sex, Izzy punches a guy, if you think I missed anything let me know otherwise enjoy!

Part 2

Axl had rules and you tried to follow them, it never was really hard anyway. Until, that is, he made a friend named Izzy. Izzy was tall with shoulder length black hair, tired eyes that stared at you with a coldness that had your legs weak in the best way.

Axl always said his friends were strictly off limits, you never had a problem with that. Until Izzy.

You whined on and on about how unfair it was that you weren't allowed to even think of liking one of his friends to him, you would receive the same answer every time. "There is no way in hell I'm letting you alone with my friends."

"Then why are you friends in the first place!" You'd yell as you sulked off.

Axl came into your room and told you he was sneaking out, nothing out of the ordinary, he did it more often than not and he told you as an extra precaution or something. You weren't sure but tonight you had a plan.

You were already dressed up and ready to leave with him when he came in around 12:00am. "Where the hell do you think you're going?" He asked, taken aback by your appearance.

"With you." You said simply.

Compared to Axl you were a sweetheart and weren't that into rock, at least you didn't dress the part. Earlier today you snuck into Axl's room and borrowed some clothes, a lettermen jacket and band shirt, Aerosmith. You paired them with jeans and cowboy boots before doing your makeup, making sure your lipstick popped against your features.

"There is no way in hell you're coming with me." He stated. "Especially not dressed like that." He said, gesturing to your get up.

"Come on!" You whined. "You're always picking on me about not being cool, can't I at least pretend for a night?" He chewed his cheek, you watched the gears turning in his head before he eventually sighed.

"Fine, but you don't leave my side, don't talk to anyone, and you're not drinking." You gestured to crossing your heart, smiling ear to ear as he helped you sneak out.

Once you were out of the house it was pretty simple, you'd walk down to the end of the neighbourhood where another of Axl's friends were, get in his car where Axl refused to leave unless he was sitting in the back with you, and then you'd drive off to some field. You preferred sitting alone in the back at first until more people got in, then Axl served as a shield.

The field in question was just another hang out spot for Axl and all his friends, older kids and a few younger kids who either thought they were the shit or were related to the shit, yourself included in the latter.

There was a bonfire and coolers full of drinks, smoke filled the air for more than one reason and you even saw a few used needles scattered from the adults who were only invited for their money and ID's.

Axl kept you right at his side through it all but as he started drinking it became harder for him to do so as you were on the lookout for Izzy.

You were about to give up on your search and just assume he wasn't coming out tonight but then you felt a tap on your shoulder. "Since when do you come out here?" He asked, leaning down so you could hear him over the music and yelling.

You shrugged, just happy to finally be in his presence. "I just thought it would be fun." You said with a smile, gaze falling to the ground.

"Fun, huh?" He glanced around, you knew it was to make sure Axl wasn't around to see. "You want some real fun?" He asked, his focus turning back to you. You nodded and he led you off somewhere.

Within the field there were bunches of trees, in one of these patches there was an old house that had been burned up. It was still standing but wasn't livable and was essentially deemed a hook-up shack.

You didn't want to just be a fun night for Izzy but you thought maybe if you could just have this then Axl would never know and you could move on.

You were just making excuses for why you were fine with this as Izzy started kissing down your neck.

His hands were under your shirt, pushing it up over your chest so he could grope you through your bra. You couldn't deny the excitement that it built inside you, the heat coursing through you every time you felt his lips on you or his teeth grazing your skin.

He took his hands out from under your shirt and got to work undoing your jeans which was when you finally stopped him. You were out of breath and your face was flushed a deep shade of pink though he couldn't see it. "I-I've never..." You trailed.

"Don't worry about it." He said, kissing your forehead. "I can teach you, sweetheart." He pulled your pants down and spread your legs a bit, just enough so your jeans were be about halfway down your thighs. "Tell me if you want to stop, alright? You can do that for me, can't you?" You nodded as his hand slid into your panties.

"Hah, fuck yes, I-I can do that." You smiled, hands going to his shoulders for stability.

Izzy let out a low chuckle as his fingers worked on your clit, rubbing it in circles. "Dirty mouth, huh?" He pressed his lips to yours and pushed a finger into you, causing a moan to leave you and fall onto his lips. "I need you to tell me what feels good, alright?" You nodded.

He started moving his finger, slow at first, just trying to find where you liked it. It was uncomfortable but that soon turned to pleasure when he curled his finger inside you. You gasped softly at the feeling, hips bucking instinctively.

"Oh, felt good, didn't it?" You let out a small whine as you nodded. "Come on, sweetheart, use your words, I'm not gonna bite." He kissed you. "Not unless you wanted me to."

"Please." You said, voice airy.

"Please?" He repeated. "Please, what?"

"I want you to bite me." You looked up at him with a lust filled grin, eyes begging for more.

"Really?" He asked, smiling back down at you. "I can't say no to you, now can I?" He kissed your forehead, then your lips before going back to your neck.

He kept a steady rhythm with his hand, hitting that same spot over and over, curling his fingers and rubbing your clit with his thumb. The chard wood and holes in the walls were useless when it came to concealing your noises but it was your first time and Izzy didn't want to quiet anything from you.

He bit your neck, sure to leave hickeys you'd have to hide from Axl and your parents. He told you how pretty you sounded, how good you were doing for him. "Let me know when you're close, alright?"

"Mhm~ I can- I can do that just please don't stop." You whined, knees buckling under your weight. Izzy pushed you against the wall, pinning your there so he could focus on making you feel good and not keeping you standing.

You could feel a ball of heat knotting in your gut you'd never felt before, Izzy could feel you squeezing him and sucking his fingers in deeper, he could tell you were getting close even without you telling him.

"Oh, isn't she a sweet one?" A new voice came.

Your eyes shot open and you saw a man who must've been in his late thirties at the earliest, he was big guy but clearly had more than a few drinks in him.

Izzy didn't think twice before pulling his fingers out of you, spinning and punching the guy square in the face. He went down without another word and hit the overgrown floors with a loud thud.

You were breathing heavy, eyes still wide as you stared down at the man. Izzy turned back to you and helped you get yourself covered once more before he led you out of the abandoned building.

You saw Axl passed out close to the edge of the field with some girl, they were both half naked. Izzy hid you behind him and got Axl up. The girl had apparently driven there and had no qualms with handing her keys over to Izzy so he could drive everyone home.

Axl was too drunk to realize you were the girl on Izzy's arm and passed out on the drive home.

Izzy parked just outside your house but you hesitated before getting out. "This is your place, isn't it?" He asked, though he knew the answer.

"Yeah, but... if Axl's coming with you why can't I?" You asked, looking up at him with a pout.

"Well," he sighed, scanning around for nothing in particular, "after tonight I think you should just get to bed."

You thought about what he said before shaking your head. "No, I want to stay with you." You remembered your thoughts going into the building, your worries of him treating this as a fun night and nothing more.

When he stared at you without giving you an answer you thought your worries were correct until he leaned towards you, throwing an arm over you shoulder and pulling you in for a kiss. "Axl will kill you if he finds out, you know." He whispered as he pulled away, just enough so he could speak, his hot breath still fanning over you.

"He wouldn't kill me." You stated, Izzy's brows raised. "He'd kill you." You finished with a smile.

"And you'd really take that risk?" You chewed your cheek.

"Maybe." You said finally. Izzy kissed you again.

"Tell you what," he started, "we can sleep in this car with your brother and what's her face and I'll wake you up and get you in your bed before five." You pouted, more at the idea of having to wake up at five.

"What if..." You trailed. You reached for his hand, playing with his long fingers. "You snuck into my room and left at five..?" You asked, nervously biting your lip.

Izzy stared at you for a minute. "You're idea's better." He said and quickly got out of the car.

And that was just the start of your sneaky endeavors.

[sirianasims]

Chapter 43.8

“Marten! You’re here!”

Marten barely manages to drop his bag on the floor before I wrap him in a tight hug. He surprises me by not only hugging me back with the same enthusiasm, but lifting me and swinging me around.

“Hey Jules! What a lovely welcome, I’m sorry I’m so sweaty.”

“It’s fine, I can’t possibly get any worse than I already am. This heatwave is crazy.”

He laughs and gives me another squeeze as he sets me down, our cheeks briefly sticking together.

“Yeah, it’s bad, the train was like a sauna. I might ask to borrow your shower later if that’s okay, I don’t want to sweat all over your sofa. That would be a very poor way to thank you.”

“Sure, make yourself at home. I found a bunch of blankets and stuff, but we can figure out sleeping arrangements when you get back tonight.”

“You’re still sure you don’t want to come to GeekCon with me, right? I feel a little bad just leaving you here and using your place like a hotel.”

He sends me a crooked smile as we stand in the middle of the living room. It’s odd to be occupying the same physical space after only speaking online for an entire year. I know him so well, but now that he’s here, he somehow feels both strange and familiar at the same time.

“No, it’s fine. I really don’t want to go. We can hang out tonight, play some games, maybe even have brunch tomorrow before you go back?”

“It’s because Paul is going to be there, isn’t it?”

I bite my lip.

“No, not just because of Paul, I didn’t finish my costume either… but I also don’t want to see him, you know? I’m still kind of mad at him.”

“No, I get it, I didn’t go to my last four lectures in Quantum Computing Theory because my ex was in that class too and it ended pretty badly. But if you’re not going, I have a proposal for you. How about I skip GeekCon as well, and we go somewhere together?”

“What? But GeekCon is the whole reason you’re here!”

“I go every year, it’s fine. Come on, Jules, what kind of friend would I be if I just left you here to melt all by yourself? We could go somewhere fun, isn’t there an aquarium over in San Sequoia? We can be there in half an hour. It has to be cooler than here, too.”

An aquarium. Just the word itself feels refreshing, conjuring up images of deep, cool water. It’s been so hot lately that I’ve almost considered jumping into the harbour, but I’ve seen enough drunk guys peeing in it when I walk home at night that I never would.

“That sounds great, actually, but are you sure?”

“Hmm, you’re right, let me really weigh my options here. On one hand, I could go to GeekCon, where I’ve been seven years in a row, to hang out with other sweaty geeks in a giant glass cube while my dear friend that I am callously exploiting for room and board is suffering in the heat all by herself – or I could go to a nice, air-conditioned aquarium and catch up with someone I haven’t seen for a year. It’s a tough decision, I’ll give you that.”

“Fine, you’ve made your point, Marten, let’s just go!” I can’t stop giggling and he carries on.

“No no, let me think just a little bit longer. I could also go and follow Paul around and glare angrily at him on your behalf, I guess that’s a point in GeekCon’s favour.”

The mental image is absurd. Paul knows perfectly well who Marten is, and I realise that I don’t want them to meet again, preferably ever. What if they talked? Would Marten actually confront Paul about hurting me? Or would Paul ask him how I was doing? I’m still angry with Paul for how abruptly he ended things, something about it feels unresolved and will probably never quite make sense to me, but I’m nowhere near as furious with him as Miranda, Samara and Marten seem to be on my behalf. I want to hate him, it would be easier, but I simply can’t.

“Please don’t do that, it would just make it seem like I still care about him. I guess that means I’ll have to graciously allow you to hang out with me instead, then.”

“Thank you, you’re too kind.” Marten rolls his eyes. “Honestly, Jules, I do hope you’ll have slightly higher standards for your next boyfriend. Let’s go before it gets any hotter.”

The sun is still rising in the sky as we emerge from the station, promising that the day will indeed only get hotter. The blue metal siding on the San Sequoia Aquarium glitters deep blue like the heart of a glacier, promising relief.

“How did you even know about this place? I’ve lived in San Myshuno for over a year and I had no idea there was an aquarium this close.”

Marten shrugs.

“I think I heard about it at some point, figured it’d be fun to go if I was ever here for something other than GeekCon. I just never had a reason until now.”

Coming in from the bright sun almost blinds me at first, before my eyes slowly adjust to the dim light. Marten pays for our tickets using cash. I can’t remember the last time I even carried cash, but I know that Marten’s parents keep an eye on his bank account. They seem to believe that going to GeekCon and playing video games is a waste of his time, and he doesn’t want them to ask too many questions. I think they worry too much, Marten is perfectly able to ace all his classes while playing games, he’s legitimately some sort of genius.

The aquarium is even chillier than I hoped for, and now I almost wish I was wearing something with longer sleeves, but the bright colours and beautiful fish soon distract me from the goosebumps on my arms. A lot of kids are running around, their excited voices echoing between the tanks.

I take a few pictures for my socials, I need to get back in the habit if I want to build my following back up, even though I don’t know exactly what direction to go in yet. But some more consistent activity can’t hurt either way.

Marten gently nudges me with an elbow. “Typical influencer behaviour, can’t just look at the fish without documenting everything.”

“Hey nerd brain, it’s technically my job. Shut up and help me instead! And please try to look like you’ve taken a selfie before.”

“I haven’t, actually, I hear cameras steal your soul. Begone, witch!”

I elbow him in the ribs and he obediently positions himself behind me, his hands barely touching my shoulders. I look at the picture I’ve taken.

“Good job on the hover hands, am I still that sweaty? I’ve already hugged you, it’s too late to pretend we’re not both super gross.”

“Hover hands? I’ll give you hover hands!” He tickles me and I squirm, almost dropping the phone. “This is the thanks I get for not manhandling you like some sort of creep? So ungrateful, no more selfies for you, young lady!”

He starts walking away, but I quickly catch up and leap onto his back, taking a few more pictures while he laughs and holds on to my knees so I don’t fall off.

Marten shakes his head, still chuckling, as I awkwardly stuff the large phone into a pocket while hanging on for dear life with the other hand.

“You’re impossible, Jules.”

“I think you mean improbable. I’m clearly possible, I’m literally right behind you.”

“Smartass.”

He carries me all the way along the giant tropical tank, but I jump down when we get to a darker area towards the back. There are two smaller tanks here, one decorated to look like an ancient temple, the other containing a statue of a turtle. The wall is covered with colourful and intricate wood carvings.

I head towards a display that features a stunning necklace carved out of some kind of green stone. “This is beautiful. I love Sulani so much.”

“Have you ever been there?”

“A few times. We used to go on holiday to the Valley every other year, but now I only have my grandparents in Brindleton Bay left, so we either go there or travel to Sulani or Mt. Komorebi. My mom loves snowboarding, but my dad gets super anxious, especially after one of my brothers chipped a tooth. My parents go to Sulani by themselves every year though, it’s like an anniversary thing.”

“What, they just go on vacation without you and your siblings?”

“Yeah, it’s like a romantic retreat. I told you they got divorced once, right? Before I was born? So now they do a lot of things to keep their marriage healthy.”

“I mean, if it works, it works. My parents wouldn’t dream of letting me stay home when they travel. And we always go places they think will be, I don’t know, educational? We’ve been to some really interesting places, like Tomarang and Selvadorada, but we always end up spending most of the time in museums or on guided tours to heritage sites and such. Sometimes it would be nice to just hang out and have fun. Oh, and then we also go to Windenburg to see my mom’s side of the family once or twice a year.”

“One of my sisters lives in Windenburg now. I really want to go visit her when I can afford it.”

“Let me know if you ever go, I’ll teach you a few useful phrases.”

“Admit it, you’re just going to teach me rude stuff.”

“Honestly, yeah, probably. My mother would be so disappointed in me.”

The final part of the aquarium has various insects and butterflies, as well as some frogs and turtles. Marten stops in front of a terrarium and I eye it warily, but I can’t really see any bugs in it, just a few large twigs.

At first I’m not even sure what I’m looking for, but then one of the twigs moves, and I squeal and hide behind Marten. He shakes his head at me.

“Honestly, Jules, can’t take you anywhere. You’re scaring the poor stick insects!”

“Hey, bugs are already not my favourite thing, and this one pulled a jump scare! Why do they have insects here anyway, it’s an aquarium?”

“I guess they’re… branching out? Sorry, that was extremely terrible even for me.”

I shake my head, giggling.

“I hope robotics works out for you, because a comedy career certainly won’t.”

“Oof, she’s harsh but fair. I’m feeling pretty done in here, want to get some lunch before we leave?”

“Let me guess, you’re going to insist on paying for that too?”

“Obviously. You know me so well.”

We get coffee and bagels and sit on the picnic tables outside the small café. Next to us, a couple tries to console their toddler who is seemingly distraught that she can’t take any of the pretty fish home. I feel her pain.

“For the second year in a row, thanks for buying me coffee during GeekCon.”

Marten grins. “I was raised like that. I hope it’s okay? I don’t mean to impose, it’s just that I know you need to be a bit careful with your money while you figure out what to do next.”

“It’s fine, but you have to let me pay next time, or whenever I get things back up and running. Samara suggested just doing some outfits and skin care, but I’m not sure.”

“Would you ever consider going to university? I mean, assuming that finances weren’t a problem? I really think you’d enjoy it there, and it’s not like you have to go all out and get a PhD like me, I don’t even know what a PhD in design looks like. But you’d learn so much.”

“It’s not about the cost,” I reply, shaking my head. “I just don’t feel like the studying type, I think I’d be bored out of my mind. I like the freedom to do my own thing.”

“Of course, freedom is important. But imagine having all the knowledge from a degree too, not to mention the credentials. You could really take your stuff to the next level, and you’d get to know other people in the business, build a network.”

“I guess. But the idea of sitting in a classroom and doing assignments… it just doesn’t excite me.”

“Life can’t be exciting all the time, Jules, sometimes you have to invest in your future.”

I smile weakly. I hate feeling like I’m disappointing him. “I know you’re trying to help, and I appreciate it. I’ll think about it, but no promises, okay?”

“That’s all I’m asking,” he says. “Just think about it.”

beginning / previous / next

[teenandbeyond]

Hiiii, Can I request for the Frieza family when the human reader get a little bit tipsy/drunk?

Frieza Fam x DrUnK. Human Reader

About time I get a drunk request.

Want more from me? MASTERlist.

🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊🧊

🧊Let Loose🧊 (DBZ or Dragon Ball Z)

Warning(s): Drunken-ness, short

And this is why you asked your ice jin to not let you get drunk...

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

Frieza

"[Name]? Are you alright?"

"Wuuuh? Yeeah, a-OKAY!"

You were not.

First you were quiet

Then you were quietly crying

"What saddens you, my dear?"

"I-We-You're so preeety. Why are you so pretty... it's not-it's not faaaair," you whined with a sob, forehead smacking against the table.

Frieza didn't know whether to be concerned or flustered. Both?

The next stage was depression

"I must escape my despair. Can you drown from whiskey?" you asked yourself blankly.

Then you were happy as could be.

"Frieza, look! A butterflyyyyy!"

"That's a chandelier, darling," he chuckled.

"But-but it looks like a butterfly...Frieza can we get a butterfly? I really, really want one."

Consider it done, you spoiled brat.

And from happiness, you become flirtatious.

Your hand brushes up his arm, "I'd love to see these arms caged around me. Are you single?"

He couldn't help but smirk past his blush, "No, I'm quite taken I'm afraid."

"Are they-hic-Are they cute?"

"Very, the cutest."

"I guess I have no chance then, woe is me!" you sigh dramatically.

And the last stage, you fall asleep, cuddled into your ice jin.

A shame you were too intoxicated to feel the kiss brush your temple.

King Cold

You were much more flirtatious than usual

Bold enough to say the things you wouldn't usually

You tried to cooly lean against the table but fell, you quickly got back up and played it off. Smooth for a drunk.

"Hey handsome, aside from being this good-looking, what else do you do in your free time?"

And he'll happily flirt back in amusement.

"I’d like to take you to the movies, but they don’t let you bring in your own snacks," you grip his thighs as you lean in.

He quite liked you like this, he had to admit.

"Neither of us would be able to attend if that were the case."

Somehow you ended up in his lap, brushing your fingers up and down his horns.

"If you let me borrow a kiss, I promise I’ll give it right back."

"That sounds like a deal."

You traded sloppy kisses until you grew tired and decided to take a snooze.

He couldn't promise to not let you get drunk again. You were quite amusing.

Cooler

Usually, you were more on the serious side, so it was nice to see you let loose.

"Hey, Cooler, let's dance!" you giggled.

No one was looking, so maybe a little dancing would be okay.

"But I don't know how."

"I'll teach you!"

Your teaching skills were a little sloppy drunk, but he got the point.

Swaying with you made him feel like he was in a different world

Your laughter filled the room.

That was all the music he needed.

You catch him staring at some point through your drunken haze

"Whaaa?"

"I want to kiss you."

"Do it then, coward," you tease.

Cooler isn't one to challenge.

Though the unexpected softness of his kiss almost stunned you out of your intoxication.

"I adore you..."

"And I want you to do that again."

[solarwonux]

Business Proposal || knj (7/?)

pairing: namjoon x f!reader || ex friends to lovers!au friends to lovers!au

Genre: fluff, angst, smut, slow burn, fwb!au, non idol!au, unrequited love

Warnings: slow burn, angst,

Rating: mature, 18+

w.c: 5.8k

Synopsis: Namjoon is living on borrowed time, and it’s time to cash in. His father is months from taking his last breathe and his life long dream is to watch his oldest son say “I do.”

a/n: hello hello hellooooo, this one is more of a filler one to get everything started. Still, I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. lmk your thoughts and if you want to be added to the tag list!

m.list || series m.list || wattpad

prev || next

10 years ago

The first time you ever met Kim Namjoon, the leaves were just beginning to change in color. The fall season was approaching. The greens of the summer were slowly fading into vibrant autumn hues. Replacing the obnoxious sticky heat, for humid and cooler winds. The leaves still hadn’t fallen, the foliage was at its peak and you were desperately trying to stay afloat. 

Somehow, you had gotten roped into a math class. Well, you weren’t necessarily roped into it. You were forced into it. It was part of the prerequisite requirements and because you had barely passed all of your Algebra exams in high school, you couldn’t plead the advisory board to accept those credits. They would’ve just laughed in your face and sent you away with a list of professors who specialized in the devil made subject. 

Now, you had hoped that college algebra was a bit easier, after three weeks of a summer intensive course you were proven wrong. You weren’t necessarily failing, but you weren’t passing either. Though, in a panic-induced state full of hope you had done the math - ironic, and came to the conclusion that if you didn’t pass the final exam, you wouldn’t be able to move onto part two of the class. 

If you had done things differently, you would’ve taken the classes at the start of your degree, just as your academic advisor had suggested. You didn’t and now you are two semesters away from a beautiful bachelors degree in arts. Achieving an impressive double major in Writing and Rhetoric and Journalism with a minor in International Communications, along with a tasteful three point nine GPA. 

You were almost there. You could savor it as you looked into master degree programs. The looming debt of your student loans was the least of your worries. At least for now. If you didn’t pass the stupid final exam, in one of the easiest math classes you could ever take in college. You would be growing a larger hole in your loan repayment agreement with the prestigious HYBE U. 

At this point you were desperate. Almost to the point in which you considered cheating. A blaspehmous thought that you only ever had in high school during science labs. Those gizmos computer stimulations were a quizlet file away, and the sweet taste of victory was even closer. 

Yet, quizlet wouldn’t work out in this scenario and finally you caved, putting away your pride for a little bit to admit that you needed help. 

A math tutor was the best option for you. Lots of college kids were desperate for another quick buck along with their less than promising part time jobs, while they struggled with juggling school in the process. You only hoped that the ad you posted on the HYBE U facebook group would workout, even if it had been a week ago and still hadn’t gotten any engagement. 

Maybe it was time to accept the truth, what’s one more extra semester. Sure, it interferes with your descriptive five year plan, but you could somehow modify it. Right?

Wrong? So very wrong. 

You needed a tutor quick. Probably in the next hour or so, because you refused to step foot in another math class again. Your life revolved around your rhetorical readings, feminist discoverings in Ancient Greece. You loved research, writing papers on things you found interesting, and developing a new perspective to already made discoveries. It was a rush. Not necessarily the writing part - it was tedious and sometimes you wondered why you even decided to pursue writing in the first place; but the sense of achievement and the ego boost you got when you typed the final sentence and the final period was euphoric. To then scroll through twenty plus pages of times new roman double spaced text that came from your brain, was a thrill. And one you would never achieve when it came to math. 

Ugh!

“You good there?” You knew that voice. It was all too familiar. You had spent countless hours sitting in a lecture hall with him telling you jokes and writing you notes retelling you the rumors he heard about your math professor.

So, maybe, your total inability to see patterns when it came to numbers wasn’t completely your fault. But the fault of the raven haired, toothy smile of the muscle bunny that you had befriended in both your science lab and college algebra courses.

You lift your head up to see Jungkook with his head cocked to the side. His right eye was a bit swollen due to the sty he had developed from scratching his eye too much with his dirty germy hands. So, he had to opt to wear his glasses, his right eye lens was a bit thicker than the left, making his eyes look a bit disproportionate. If you weren’t aware of how successful he was at getting around with both women and men you would’ve thought otherwise, due to his geeky look and fascination with RPG games. 

You groan, messing your hair with your silver ring cladded fingers. “No offense but math is the worst subject in this entire world. Why do we need it? I’m not going to use it to calculate the circumference of the can of beans I’m going to buy at the grocery store. Nor will I use the pythagorean theorem to measure the circumference of my pizza.” You rant, glancing at the time and closing your laptop. 

Your self study session was unsuccessful because all you did was refresh the facebook page hoping someone would take your twenty dollars an hour offer. 

Yes, you were incredibly desperate, even considering upping the price to appeal to more money hungry college students. 

“The fact that you’re using geometry terminology regarding a simple college algebra class tells me everything I need to know.” He grins, partially leaning his body to the side, resting his weight on the umbrella handle he was carrying. 

Fuck, you forgot it was going to rain today. 

Your day couldn’t get any worse. 

“Anyway, I’m guessing the tutor search isn’t working?”

“Bingo,” you snap your fingers at him before proceeding to gather the rest of your stuff. 

This was the part you dreaded the most. The agonizing walk to your math lecture. Honestly, if it weren’t for Jungkook consistently meeting up with you in the cafe that connected to the hallway in the math building to walk to class together. You would’ve probably never turned up after the first class. Hence why you’re not in a sinking boat. Just a partially sinking boat. 

Jungkook sighs, scratching the back of his head, watching you scoot out of the booth. He wishes he could offer you more help other than moral support and a few ‘You can do it,’  air punches. But between his computer science classes, and increasing doubt regarding his degree plaguing his mind, he’s found himself with zero free time.  

That’s when he remembers something. A small passing comment made on his way to bathroom last night as he was getting ready for bed. Maybe he does have a way to help you. His face lights up, alerting you. 

“What, why do you look like you’ve just seen a cheesecake on sale?” You adjust the strap of your leather bag, against your shoulder and make your way to his side, eyeing his umbrella. 

Would it be weird to ask him to walk you home after class? 

Shaking your head at the thought, a problem for later, you decide.

You shift your gaze to meet his. He’s biting the inside of his cheek and you’ve never been so desperate at knowing what goes on in that questionable head of his. He also never takes this long to say something. Once a thought pops into that head of his head, it's out in seconds because he’s afraid he might lose it. 

You can thank his ADHD for that one. 

“I think I might know someone who’s free on Tuesday and Thursday evenings that can probably help you out.” He squints, nodding his head, and you feel your mood turn right side up. 

You knew befriending Jungkook would end up benefiting you one day. Though, you do feel a little bit irritated, couldn’t he have told you this wonderful news, um, I don’t know a week ago as you two sat in this exact same booth, while he watched you make the stupid facebook post. 

You shove him a little, his umbrella buckling under his weight and he stumbles a bit, shock written all over his face. “What was that for?” He complains, taking a hold of his right arm in mock hurt. 

“You’ve seen me suffer and you’re now just telling me that you magically happen to know someone who can tutor me this entire time.” You huff, shoving past him, glancing at your phone screen for the time. Class was in five minutes, unfortunately.

“That’s not necessarily true.” He speaks from behind you, and you throw him a glare making him buckle under the pressure. The dramatics. He’s only been your friend for almost four weeks, but he’s already gotten used to you and he knows he’s hit a vein, and that you’re so stubborn any explanation wouldn’t work. It is always worth a try. 

“Okay maybe that’s true, but they’re pretty busy and I just assumed he would have a full schedule and no time to tutor you.” He explains, keeping up with your steps. The two of you arrive in front of the lecture hall with a minute to spare, you take it upon yourself to open the door, revealing the room full of stressed induced faces, quietly whispering to each other. 

You shake your head at Jungkook’s explanation, making your way to your usual seats. In the middle but on the outside for a quick escape if ever needed. “How do you even know this person? I thought you only had two friends.” You place your bag gently onto your desk and sit down. 

“Actually, including you, I have three friends.” 

“My friends don’t count either.” 

Jungkook rolls your eyes and slumps down next to you, spreading his legs wide, taking up all his leg room and part of yours. God, he was such a guy. 

“Do you want my help or not?” He says in feigned annoyance. 

You unzip your bag, fishing out your pencil and notebook, while he takes out his laptop. You could never understand how he was able to take math notes on a computer, but he was the self proclaimed computer genius. Well, his straight A’s in all of those freakishly hard classes were also proof, so, there must be a method to his madness. 

You sigh, setting your bag down in the empty seat next to you. “Fine, yes, please, my perfect Jungkook. I’m desperate, put me out of my misery.” You plead, hands clenched in front of you as the hushing of the students dies down, and the greeting of your Spanish accent written professor echoes throughout the class. It’s your cue to shut up and hopefully pay attention. 

“First, don’t ever say things like that.” Jungkook begins, leaning in closer to whisper, “it’s weird.” He says in disgust–the audacity. “Second, do you have plans after class?” He finishes leaning away and opening up a new blank document on his laptop. 

You shake your head at his question and click down on your mechanical pencil. You were determined to at least understand one thing in today’s lesson. Jungkook doesn’t answer, your professors voice booming throughout as he begins the lesson of the day, and you’re distracted in seconds by the light tap on your shoulder. 

You look over at your friend, his laptop screen turned in your direction so you can read the tiny invitation written in cosmic sans font. He’s a child. 

Come with me to Serendipity after class and thank me later :p

You look up at him rolling your eyes at the ending emoji. A child indeed. But you nod in agreement, you don’t know what or who is at Serendipity. Except for a solution. At least that is what you hope for because there’s a reason why you haven’t  stepped foot in there since childhood, despite Jungkook raving about it time and time again. The overpriced vanilla lattes is the main reason why. 

Yet, desperate times come along with desperate measures. And if you need to drop a couple more on your favorite caffeinated drink in order to pass math. Then so be it. 

Serendipity stood in between two worlds. It separated the lively college town from the perfect four person familial neighborhood. On weekday afternoons it was mostly frequented by college students who needed a change in scenery or remote workers with their bangs still in rollers and their eyes puffy from sleep. On Friday nights it was home to young adults grabbing dessert after a fulfilling dinner or a late caffeinated drink for a long night out. Tired office workers, likely forced to attend a company dinner, usually took up the long tables in the back wall of the first floor. 

Sunday’s were a favorite at Serendipity, young families would come from different parts of town to enjoy a late brunch. And morning runners would waltz in for a late caffeine kick before the strenuous work out around the lake that offered the cafe it’s  most famous view. 

Dionysus Lake.

Just as its name implies. The lake was a place for celebration, festivities, and madness. It’s where everything would happen for the first time. Your first fall, your first scrape. The graduation ground from a four wheeled bike to a two one. The first time you saw your crush outside of school. The first time you held hands with someone and the downfall of your first friendship with your childhood best friend—Sabrina. I was the breeding ground of impulsive decisions like getting drunk on the steps that led to the bank. With beer and soju you had gotten because you paid a broke college student scrambling in between odd jobs to buy them for you. The breeding ground of many triple dog dares and the place in which you decided what your future would be like. 

It was a right of passage from childhood to teenagehood and finally adulthood. 

It’s where couples that beat the test of time go to enjoy their last moments of humanity. Both the cafe and the lake are full of nostalgia, and so famous that it now became a must see spot from people all over the city. With inflation and the influx of people both the cafe and the lake were places you and your family had started to frequent less, until eventually it was out of your minds completely and the longing for just a fleeting moment to visit before the chaos was gone.

That is until today. 

Everything had changed so much. The rustic decor was now replaced with a mixture of antiques and plants hanging from every possible surface. The windows were now floor to ceiling and they opened up to a very cooling outside patio, where you could enjoy the view of the famous lake. They had even expanded to a second floor, and added a rooftop with fiery lights and wooden tables. It basically looked nothing like what you had grown up with and more like a pinterest board of garden core had thrown up on it. 

It also had more menu options, and gone was your favorite blueberry and mint tea you and your mom would enjoy whenever your anxiety spiked to levels in which you could not control. Everything had been replaced with something more expensive and trendy. A complaint that had been surrounding the cafe for years by everyone who grew up inside the walls. Though you hadn’t really believed it until now because you were finally working up the courage to see it for yourself. And the one thing you can only really think about—apart from the overpriced vanilla latte you had just paid for—was how could a place so familiar feel so unfamiliar at the same time. 

“Hobi always gives me a discount when I come.” Jungkook throws into the wind while he plays with the white buzzer in his hand. 

Unlike you, Jungkook and his family—from what you have gathered—were regulars. As soon as he arrived every worker greeted him with a warm smile and a simple hand wave. Some had added a mention of seeing his mom earlier. And if you hadn’t been convinced, the barista with the high nose bridge, sporting the floral shirt, a bright yellow beanie and khaki pants had already inputted his order before Jungkook could mutter the words “iced americano with a splash of vanilla syrup please.” 

“I’m sorry who?” You move your head closer, eyeing the way his hands wrapped around the buzzer. Desperately hoping for it to ring because although it was almost three and you probably shouldn’t really be drinking any form of caffeine at this time. Your body desperately needs something to keep you alert. Especially now that you were meeting your classmate's brother for the first time. 

A brother who could possibly save you from failing your college algebra class. He had told you a little about him. Apparently, he wasn’t really his brother, but his mother remarried his father when Jungkook was young, so to make matters easier for everyone involved. He would just introduce him as his older brother. He called him Joon and he was currently working on his masters in philosophy. A real pretentious nerd if someone were to ask you. They lived together in an apartment just outside of the college town, and according to Jungkook, who you have noticed likes to input his opinion where it really doesn’t matter. He was still a virgin, because he lived and breathed philosophy like one of those weird philosophers from ancient times. The only thing he needed was a laurel crown and a toga. 

His words not yours. 

Basically he didn’t really do a very good job at painting a good image of his older brother. And you were already having some negative opinions regarding him because you have dealt with a handful of pretentious boys in many of your classes that you really didn’t feel like adding another one to the mix. But again, you’ll push your preconceived notions aside. This was for your four point zero GPA and your five year plan. One more insult to your psyche and intelligence wouldn’t hurt.

Right? 

“The one that rang us up. He gave you one too, vanilla lattes are usually seven and you only paid six.” He points out before jumping at the sound of the buzzer going off. “I’ll get it.” He smiles standing up faster than you can protest, and walking off to the pick up counter. 

It’s strange that the two of you became friends or clicked so well. And you like to think that it was mainly because you shared a few classes more than anything else. He was a little energizer bunny, a right arm sprinkled with a few tattoos and a scar right above his eyebrow where a piercing had been. You were not far from the opposite, but you did have a social battery that would often run out before the end of the day. You valued the quiet and apart from the many earrings decorating your ears and the hot pink peekaboo dye job you had your mom do. You were deathly scared of needles and didn’t look nearly as rebellious as Jungkook did, even with his stupid nerdy glasses. 

“Hobi gave us cookies, on the house.” Jungkook says as he sets down the tray in front of you. “I think he might want your number.” He adds with a nonchalant tone before taking up his previous seat and getting a head start at setting the table.  

You tilt your head in confusion as he pushes a plate with a matcha cookie your way. “You’re talking nonsense. I heard you ask for a chocolate chip cookie before you paid.” You roll your eyes, grabbing your tall glass of coffee. 

Jungkook rolls his eyes, pushing the brown tray to the side. “I ordered a cookie but I didn’t order two.” He points to your cookie. “Plus he couldn’t take his eyes off you while you ordered.” He finishes and takes a long sip of his drink. He finishes with a refreshed ah and smacks his lips together in satisfaction. 

The drama. 

That’s probably another thing the two of you did have in common. You’re both dramatic in your own ways. Something the two of you discovered about each other two weeks into knowing one another. It was a long story that involved a stubbed toe and a papercut. One that wasn’t worth reminiscing about now because it added nothing to both of your lives. 

“I doubt that Kook, he’s just doing his job and he knows you.” You raise a finger at him and you take a long awaited sip of your coffee. 

Jungkook crosses his arms in front of you. “Okay then why did he ask me if you were single.” He adds in a matter of fact way. Cocking an eyebrow to prove his point. 

You narrow your eyes at him and kick him under the table. He recoils in pain, whispering explicits to not draw any more attention to the two of you. “You’re lying and I know you’re lying because I saw you order another cookie when you went to pick up our drinks.” You say leaning in closer so he can hear your whispering. 

Here’s the thing. Jungkook has been trying to set you up with every guy he deems is cute. You on the other hand are not interested, mostly because you’re still young with your whole life ahead of you. And right now the only thing that matters is your degree. 

What’s the rush?

He pouts, uncomfortably cradling his shin. “Fine, he didn’t give you a cookie on the house, but he did say you were cute. And he’s a nice guy. My brother is friends with him and he’s really funny.” 

You sigh, breaking a piece from your cookie. “I'm happy to hear that but you know that’s not a priority of mine now.” 

Jungkook rests his elbows onto the table and leans forward. “Have you ever heard of a work- life balance?” Because all you do is work and you should be out and partying. Your twenties are supposed to be full of fun.” 

“I do have fun, Jungkook.” You point out, putting the piece of cookie into your mouth before crossing your arms in annoyance. If you had a coin for every time someone in your life tried having this exact same conversation with you, then you’d probably be able to afford more of these over priced lattes. 

Jungkook sits back with his arms crossed, tonguing the inside of his cheek in suspicion. Sure, he’s only known you for a short amount of time, but every time he sees you around campus or meets up with you. You have your head buried in either a book or your fingers are flying across your laptop keyboard. He’s positive you don’t know how to have fun. 

“Fine name one instance in which you are not doing school work.” He challenges 

“My friends and I have board game nights every Wednesday and Sunday night.” 

Jungkook sits up a bit straighter, a look of shook written all over his face. “Wait, you actually have friends.” He says before lifting a hand to cover his mouth in disbelief. 

Before he can stop you, you kick his shin one more time and this time harder than the first time. This is exactly why you are surprised you’ve chosen to be friends with him. Sometimes he could get under your skin by just existing. 

“You know I have friends, Jungkook. You’ve hung out with them.” 

He doesn’t answer, instead he nods his head while he once again cradles his shin in pain. Maybe he crossed the line this time. He met Taehyung and Jimin more than once. And from what he was able to gather in the few times he’s hung out with the three of you. Is that Jimin might have a huge crush on you and Taehyung’s jokes aren’t nearly as funny as you make them out to be. Still, he thinks they’re cool. 

“Sorry I’m late, I missed my bus.” An unfamiliar voice speaks up and it makes the man in front of you sit up so straight you’re positive he’s going to break his back.

You raise a brow in confusion before turning your head to look towards the person who has the energizer bunny fix his posture and shut his mouth. 

The first thing you see is the flowy khaki pants, then his simple t-shirt topped with a blue and white checkered flannel. And finally your eyes land on his face, and the black framed glasses sitting on the bridge of his nose. His hair hides under a navy beanie and your mouth almost falls open in disbelief. 

Holy fuck, wait a second. This is the man Jungkook was describing. The nerd of a brother who could possibly still be a virgin and has his nose stuck in philosophy textbooks? Out goes your preconceived notions of the man in front of you and now you’re downright confused because this man was hot and reeked of chillaxed energy. He probably owns a few plants, and bike rides on the weekend and visits a few buddhist temples for the experience. 

Nobody says anything as the man—which you perceive is now Joon—slides into the spot next to Jungkook’s. He hasn’t really looked in your direction, except for the short glance he sent your way when he first appeared. 

Jungkook scoffs in annoyance as he scoots over making it a huge show like it’s inconvenient for him to move over. “This is Joon.” 

“Namjoon.” The older one corrects before he extends his hand for you to shake. You hesitate for a second before shaking it and telling him your name. 

He nods, retrieving his hand and sets it down on his lap. There’s a brief silence as he looks in between you and Jungkook probably trying to make sense of the situation himself because if you were being honest you’re still stunned yourself. Though you know Jungkook and his brother aren’t blood related you can’t help but feel like good genes simply run in the family somehow.

Namjoon shrugs once he’s silently done making his assumptions and sets his arms on the table, clasping his hands together. In an instant his face is replaced from a pleasing and welcoming one to one that screams he’s honestly here for business and not to fuck around. 

“Are you the one that Jungkook tells me needs help?” He questions, earning a jab from the younger one. He doesn’t react and instead keeps going. “Have to ask because he’s been trying to set me up on blind dates thanks to our mom, so if this is what this is then I’m sorry but I’m not interested.” He nods before leaning back. Joon, or Namjoon doesn’t let you respond before he stands up and walks towards the order counter. There you see him greet the same barista who you now know is Hobi thanks to Jungkook. 

You don’t linger on his figure before you turn to face Jungkook. Who looks mortified beyond belief and you can’t help but laugh because things are simply just making sense. All of Jungkook’s backhanded praises involving his brother made so much more sense. He did mention he was an asshole but you just assumed that was a simple sibling thing. No, he was most definitely right. And he fit more into the description you had once assumed before even meeting him, minus the typical nerd look you had conjured up with the brief descriptions Jungkook had provided. He was hot, and could probably crack your heart open into two, but he was exactly like those pretentious classmates you’ve had the unfortunate pleasure of encountering all throughout your degree. But for some reason you aren’t as bothered by it, because in a way it was hilarious. 

Jungkook whines, “He can’t even try to be nice for a little bit.” 

You throw your head back laughing even harder, while Jungkook continues to grumble underneath his breath in annoyance. You laugh until your stomach begins to hurt and until someone clears their throat making your giggles die down slowly. 

“Why is Hobi giving out free cookies?” He points out before setting his tray down and taking up the seat next to his brother again. To which Jungkook silently gestures to the cookies and you as if to prove his earlier point. Namjoon rolls his eyes at his brother's actions before turning to face you. 

“He also told me to give you his number but I told him that I didn’t know you and that if he wanted your number he should just ask you himself.” He shrugs, taking a sip of his dark liquid and making the same satisfied noise Jungkook had made earlier. 

Ah, maybe dramatics also run in the family. 

You stir the liquid of your latte with your straw. “Um thanks I guess.” You take a sip of your drink as he nods. 

The atmosphere is so awkward that you want the entire cafe to fall through a hole in the ground. The three of you are silent before Jungkook’s phone lights up and starts buzzing. He quickly grabs it and silences it before standing up. “Sorry, I have to go. I forgot I had this thing to do.” He says inconspicuously before grabbing his book bag and throwing it over his shoulder.

You scramble eyes going wide as he adjusts the straps and straightens his black long sleeve. “Wait where are you going? I thought we had plans after this.” 

Jungkook bites his lip, silencing his buzzing phone again when it goes off a second time. “Sorry Bun, I have to really go, it's important. I’ll see you at home Joon.” He salutes before basically running out of the cafe. 

“Typical.” Namjoon catches your attention and rolls his eyes. “I knew he had something planned when he asked me to meet him here last minute. I’m really sorry about him but I’m really not interested in dating right now.” He says before grabbing hold of his bag and going to stand up. 

Your body is filled with panic as you watch him. You do have a few choice words for the person that just ditched you with his brother. But this could be your last resort and you weren’t going to let him walk away. “Wait.” You extend your arm in his direction. He stops slipping on his bag and raises a brow at you in curiosity. 

“I actually do need help. I’m close to failing my college algebra course…well I will fail it if I don’t pass the final exam.” You begin to explain, finally grabbing his full attention as he stuffs his hands into the pocket of his pants. “Jungkook mentioned you could probably help out.” You bring down your hand, circling both of them around your watered down latte. “That’s why I’m here. I promise this isn’t a blind date or anything.” 

Namjoon nods, looking at the entrance before sitting down again, sighing, his shoulders relaxing instantly. And you’re once again met with the same nonchalant demeanor he had approached you and Jungkook. Once again things started to make sense, why he had made the switch so quickly. It was something he was probably so used to by now, but now as he adjusts himself in the seat in front of you. You can see that maybe he could not really be that bad. 

“In that case I can stay.” He grins, pushing his iced coffee to the side. “I should warn you I’m not the best when it comes to math but college algebra is easy so I can help you out.”

You let out a big sigh of relief and nod your head. “Thank you so much you don’t understand how much you’re already helping me out by agreeing.” 

Namjoon chuckles lightly before reaching into his side bag and taking out a plain black notebook with a pen. “In that case we should figure out our schedules.” He opens the notebook to a blank page and uncaps the pen. “Does Tuesday and Thursday at seven work for you?” He tilts his head in question. 

You nod rapidly. “That’s perfect for me.” 

He hums and writes down your name with the agreed days and times next to it. He closes it quickly and puts it in his bag. “Great, I'll see you next Tuesday.” 

That’s it? It was that easy? Then why the heck did it take such a long time for someone to respond to your Facebook post. Especially when you had increased the payment. 

Payment. Oh you had forgotten about it, and from

What it seems like so did Namjoon because he was already getting ready to go again. 

“Wait.” 

He stops, eyeing you in confusion but you decide to continue. “How much do you charge?” 

Namjoon opens his mouth and closes it quickly. He puts a pensive hand on his chin before snapping his fingers in front of him. “I think you’re the one Jungkook mentioned about studying writing.” 

“Writing and Rhetoric.” You correct before he can continue going. He nods in acknowledgment.

“Yeah, that’s what he said. I’m sure he mentioned what I was studying and if I’m being honest I hate revising my own writing. So, instead of paying me in money you can just revise my work in exchange for tutoring lessons.” He offers with a shrug. 

You would be a fool to not take up this magnificent offer, so quickly you agree, extending your hand for him to shake. He takes it and for a second you swear you feel your heart drop down to your belly from just his touch. But you brush it off quickly when he retrieves his hand. It’s probably just the caffeine anyway. 

“Great, it’s a pleasure doing business with you.” He smiles, and this time it is wide enough in which you can see his cute little dimples. “See you on Tuesday.” 

Before you can respond with the same statement he’s already rushing out of the cafe. Leaving you alone in the booth, with three unfinished iced coffees and cookies. 

You can’t really make out anything, just that this was probably the longest day of your life. And that unbeknownst to you, you can slightly feel the light crack in the corner of your heart. One that you will later on learn was the moment Namjoon had started to infiltrate it.

hope you liked it!

[tmwcs]

could you please do heeseung seeing y/n wearing another guys shirt? maybe like jake had let heeseung borrow his clothes but heeseung forgot to give it back, so heeseung goes ethan mode when he sees y/n wearing it without realizing it’s the shirt he forgot to return to jake.😭😭 this just popped up into my head before i went to bed so sorry if my explanation skills are ass rn lol.

Edit: so i totally forgot to add the title and warning label. apologies, i'm still recovering from being sick and am not 100%

"Daddy's Shirt"

Warning: Roughness hinted, Heethan gets a little jealous/filled with rage, misunderstanding, some softness, yandere love....yandere traits. Some....choking.....

“You wanna Netflix and chill pretty?” He asks as you both enter the room.

“I’d like that baby.” Stretching your arms, you sigh out as you release the roughness of the day. It felt so long, and the amount of study sessions further drained you of all your energy. Changing over, your back remains facing him as you dawn only your panties. With your back bare, Heeseung flashes a glance and bites his lip.

“God damn she’s magical…..if there was anything her parents did right, it was making her.” He thought as he watched you slip on one of his t-shirts. He loved seeing you in his tees, with no bra and just a simple pair of panties….it’s no wonder he takes you as often as he does. You were drop dead gorgeous and so easily accessible for him to grip his hands on. Watch you, all the while staring at your derrière, you slowly turn to walk over to his bed, when you noted the sudden shift in his features as he sees the front side of the tee shirt.

“THATS…..NOT…….MINE……” with the face of Ethan quickly appearing, wide eyed and sadistically glaring with anger in his eyes, shoots forward, scaring you to death as you grabs your wrists and rams you against the wall. “Whose is it and WHY are you wresting it? “ he snarls rather maliciously. His glare was muderous and twisted as he snarled a very eerie smile….imagining all the torturous acts he would do to whomever was the owner of this piece, and teach you a lesson with a rather harsh punishment.

grabbing onto you jawline, he grips gently, but firmly as he forces you to remain facing forward and directly at him. “Fucking open that sweet mouth and start talking…..BABY….DOLL.” Gritting his teeth while flashing a devious smirk, much like the jokers smile, you felt yourself falling into the depths of ultimate fear as you witnesses Ethan nearly unhinged.

“wait….wait….it’s not….it isn’t like that…” you stuttered as he gripped your neck tighter, licking his lips and eyes you up and down.

"Baaaaaaaaby........you need a reminder on who you belong to?" he grits his teeth once more, his fingers digging into your skin and his grip tightening to the point where you started to feel your air intake becoming restricted.

"E....Ethan......its....its hard to breathe...." you softly gasp out as your lips remained pursed open, yet he foudn you so delectable and amazing like this. Especially when you were due for a punishment.

"Good.....fucking choke on it some more." gritting his teeth harshly, he leans in and kisses you with the heated passion you have yet to feel coming from Ethan, or Heeseung. He kept his grip steady, neither loosening nor tightening it, keeping it at the medium it was so as to not hurt you, yet causing you minor discomfort to reflect his current emotional rage.

"Ready to get fucked princess?" he smiles as he reaches his thumb upwards, pushes your bottom lip down, spits inside, and orders you to....

"Swallow."

With glossy eyes, you did as he bid and gulped down his own slaver matter, feeling it travel down your throat as the cooler temperature reflects its foreign entry.

"Pl...please.....Ethan.....its.....its not......what you think." wincing as you felt pulses of his grip tightening and loosening, you reach up and stroked his hand, cooing him the best you could loosen the grip permanently. Knowing that fighting or struggling wouldn't work in your favor, since the man was significantly stronger than you, the only option you had was to show him love....because he needed it.

"Its.....its a shirt H/N bought......ugh!" feeling his grip slacking, he raises a brow and silently with his gaze demands that you elaborate.

"She....ugh......she bought it for Jake but....she got the wrong size...and asked if i wanted it......i wore it to surprise and ......and give....it to you.......ugh!" gasping, he releases his grip entirely yet kept his hand planted around you.

"Is that so?" he deeply and calmly asks. You nod eagerly with tears forming in your eyes, somehow you felt terrible that the wrong impression was delivered, and you felt bad that things went this way, but what got you the most was that for a moment in time, the man you loved the most...the one that took care of you and adored you before anything else, including his own well being, was hurt. You never wanted to hurt him.....yet you inaverdently did so. Keeping his hand loosely wrapped around your neck, he takes out his phone and dials in Jake.

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

"Hey Heeseung whats up?"

"Hey....question......did h/n recently get you a shirt in the wrong size?"

"oh yeah, the one that has the bears on it? yeah, its cute but its too large, i told her to ask y/n if she'd want it to give it to you."

"mmhmm...."

"is everything good?"

"everything is fine.....now.....just wanted to clarify. thanks. "

"yeah man, see you later."

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

Turning his head and tossing his phone on his desk, he turns back to you as his hand drapes downward to your shoulder, where he gently grabs your arm. Looking at the teary, wide eyes staring back at him, with the look of fear and sadness in them, he looks down and brings you in to his chest.

"dont cry.....i'm sorry...." he calmly whispers with a stoic face.

You gently sobbed into his chest, feeling guilty. You should have just presented it to him rather than wearing it, considering it was a man's tee shirt, one that was unrecognizable to him, no wonder he drew to the wrong conclusion.

"I-.....i'm sorry.......i should have just given it to you...." you stuttered out in between your quiet sobs.

Petting your head and shushing you, he presses his lips against your head. "Shhh.....dont apologize. You didnt do anything wrong, i overreacted." he paused and gulped for a second before he continued....

"I dont like the thought of losing you....i was scared......and when i get scared......i go crazy........" he admits as he holds onto your waist tightly.

Nodding your head, you return the embrace and felt reassured that things were okay now. You should have known better, for as long as you've been with your man, you knew that his obsession and insane love for you was abnormal. It was scary, horrifying even.....it was abrasive, rough, controlling, mentally abusive even...with the way he was always clinging onto you and creating rules that restricted your freedom in the relationship.....his everlasting presence around you...no matter where you were or where you go......restricted your freedom...yet.....because of these traits.....he was also protective....he always brought you home and rescued you from danger....he loved you hard, he loved you softly, he loved you....just you...only you.....and he showed countless times, that he was willing...and has always been willing, to do anything for you. There was not a thing you would change about your man.

Gently pulling you back and stroking the pieces of your hair away from your face, swooping all of your locks over to one shoulder, he eyes you up and down and admires the tee shirt you had on.

"So you thought of me when h/n showed you this?" he gently speaks as he places one hand on the side of your neck, his thumb gently stroking on the areas where faint prints of his fingers were left from his previous hold. The other hand caresses your cheek as he smothered you with kisses in between his words.

"Mmhmm....." you innocently hummed into his kiss.

"Yeah?" he kisses you again. "Yeah baby? you're always thinking of me?" he kisses you two more times.

"Yes......i am..." you utter out in between his kisses.

Pulling you harshly in by your waist, he deepens the kiss and rolls his tongue aggressively in your mouth as he forces you to arch your back, planting his free hand on the back of your head to pull you in more.

The tee shirt wrinkles in his grasp, the white fabric feeling soft against his hand. The adorable logo in the front crinkles as he raises the hem of the shirt to snake his hand in between your legs, where he begins to take his performance to a heightened level. Pausing the kiss for just a second, he whispers.....

"I like it...........and i love you." continuing, he proceeded to do everything you ever thought imaginable in the aspects of loving someone....and fucking them......Ethan redeemed himself the moment his finger, tongue, and his member entered inside you and brought out the womanly spirit out of you as usual.

The next morning, you woke up and heard him typing away. Raising up, still nude and covered by the sheets and blanket, you sit up with your legs over the edge and gently rub your eyes as you look over his way. A smile softly appears on your face with a gentle chuckle accompanying it.

"you're wearing it...." you smile.

He smiles back as he eyeballs the screen on his laptop, while blowing you a kiss and tells you.

"I am.....i like it. Think i'll fuck you in it again later....." sighing in his palm as he rests his chin and props his elbow on the desk, he gives you a sly side eye under the hood of his matching white cap, and winks before giving you that infamous dashing smirk.

Enjoyed this piece? Show love and treat your girl to a cup of coffee. ♥️  ☕ Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/reinbow

[jq37]

The Report Card – Fantasy High Junior Year Ep 6

Post Shrimp Jump Conspiracy Board Special

Hey y’all! Welcome back to Seacaster Manor where the shrimp party is still raging and the Bad Kids are balancing being cooler than ever with some serious sleuthing. We get a lot of new information this episode so I wanted to try out a new format for this week. I often talk in a metaphorical way about putting items up on a Conspiracy Board but I want to actually try that now that we’re a little over a quarter of the way in and have multiple overarching things happening. This is going to be a lot less linear than usual but bear with me. Gotta shake things up a little so I don’t get burnt out! There’s still fourteen more episodes to go! 

The Rat Grinders

The Bad Kids’ de facto rival party got a lot of screen time in this episode, which makes sense: Adaine declared the party their nemeses over Goldenhoard or anyone else they’ve fought, which is saying a lot. Before this point, we knew the following facts about them:

1) They got their name because the only enemies they’re recorded as killing are low level ones (including rats) that they grind in the woods behind the school, showing a willingness to follow the letter but not spirit of the rules but also an impressive amount of dedication. 

2) Their leader seems to be rogue, Kipperlily Copperkettle who is type A as hell and has a LOT of free time to kill having found the rogue professor (or at least having the rogue professor find her). She’s running for class president on a platform based around “fairness” which is a theme that’s come up more than once this season. 

3) Also on the team are emo Bard Reuben (who seems to be related to the new Artificing teacher and who shares an agent with Fig) and nonplussed Barbarian Mary Ann (who is buffing herself magically somehow).

4) Kipperlily specifically asked about where Kristen was able to create a new god. Now how, where. An odd question. 

This episode, we learned a lot more, so let's throw them on the board and make some connections!

5) The Rat Grinders have a new cleric named Buddy Dawn (something Kristen’s brother mentioned two episodes ago). He’s from Highcourt and moved with his grandparents. He’s got super Mormon+Southern “Bless Your Heart” energy and Kristen doesn’t like how familiar it feels. His vibes are clocked as well meaning but kinda judgey. 

6) Buddy Dawn was *specifically requested* by the party. Of course, requesting a cleric isn’t weird–why wouldn’t you want one? And Helioism seems a pretty common religion in the region so odds are good that if you get a cleric is would be a Helioic one. But, paired with KP’s question about Kristen, it makes you wonder if the plan is to recruit a Kristen expy and try to get lightning to strike twice.  

7) At the beer pong table, we meet the RG’s archer who is an elf named Ivy Embra. She’s got some flirty, catty energy (which we see when she interacts with Fabian and Mazey respectively).

8) We also meet the party wizard, Oisin Hakinvar, who is a Conjuration specialist with a focus in summoning. He’s a blue dragonborn which means that he has a great great great (etc) blue dragon ancestor he can ping when he needs barrels of diamonds, no problem. He has so many in fact that when Adaine lies badly that she’s also swimming in diamonds, he kindly offers to let her borrow some of his “extras”. But she turns them down, calls him great, and then panics and runs away to commiserate with Fabian who is also panicking about a flirty moment with Ivy. Oisin, for his part, seems driven to distraction and can’t make a single other shot all night. Cute! But–

9) As much as I want to wholeheartedly love Oisin (and honestly do and will until I am given direct evidence to change my mind) I have to point out that KVX, known evil bank, did change its logo from red (Goldenhoard’s color) to blue (Oisin’s Ancestor’s color) and there is a shot in the trailer of the party fighting a blue dragon. Connected? Maybe.

10) From investigating some yearbooks, the party also learns that the Rat Grinders have existed since Freshman Year but, at the time, they were called the High Five Heroes. They all look a lot more smiley and a lot less intense–Rebuen’s not even emo. It was the lineup from above, minus Buddy and plus a frost Genasi cleric named Lucy Frostblade. They learn that she supposedly died in their Sophomore year but specifically during a period near the end of the year where grades are locked and it wouldn’t affect their party comp which is…convenient. 

11) Fig tries to investigate this by disguising herself as Lucy and seeing how Ivy and Oisin react. Only Ivy sees her but she doesn’t seem shocked at all to see her allegedly dead party member She just raises an eyebrow and ditches the game to talk to her. Fig bails (and rolls only a 12 to stealth away) so we don’t get any extra info but just the fact that Ivy reacted that way is pretty juicy info as is.  

12) The other Rat Grinders don’t seem to be at the party but the members are skeptical about that. On the other hand, when Ivy leaves, it’s because Oisin pulls her aside and says, “Kipperlilly’s calling”. So it’s possible there was a Team A and a Team B for whatever the Rat Grinders were doing that night?

13) And speaking of what they're doing, we do have a theory. When Fabian checks some damage in the basement where Max and some other kids were smoking "gorgenfern" he sees that something called a cloud rider engine was smashed up pretty bad and in a suspicious way–gorgenfern doesn’t make you rowdy. Fabian checks the security tapes he obviously has and sees that some ice mephits came in and riled people up to the point of crashing into the engine. Adaine conjured some earlier in the party and as far as her arcana check can tell, they’re here, but there’s suspicion that Oisin–a conjuration wizard–could have done it. It’s certainly within his skillset. A cloud rider engine allows a vehicle to fly on clouds and it’s not clear if it was simply smashed or if something was stolen from it. 

14) Max isn’t a Rat Grinder but he did ask them all if they wanted to smoke with him and Ivy offered Fabian snuff so Riz is suspicious that the RG’s are trying to get them kicked out of school for drug use now that they have a non-Aguefort principal who presumably cares about silly rules like that at the murder school. 

That’s basically what we know about the Rat Grinders! So, to sum it up, I’d say the conspiracy board bullet points are:

Supposedly dead cleric Lucy Frostblade: What actually happened to her and why isn’t Ivy surprised to see “her”?

New cleric Buddy Dawn: Why was he specifically requested? 

The High Five Heroes: What caused them to turn into the Rat Grinders? And, as they seem like they were more gung ho their first year, why did they never pivot to fighting things other than low level monsters?

Do they actually have beef with the Bad Kids specifically or are their vibes just terrible? Were they trying to sabotage them by offering drugs? Did they break the engine on purpose and, if so, why?

Oisin: Is he chill or is he working an angle? That question technically goes to Ivy as well but I’m almost certain she’s fully working an angle, lol. I’m getting straight up Aelwyn vibes from her.

Class President: What is KP’s angle re: running for class president? This seems like something she’d want to do either way with her personality but her policy of fairness dovetails too neatly with Grix’s appearance and Cassandra’s inability to say the phrase, “It’s not fair,” last episode.

How did KP find the rogue professor and is that relevant?

And finally, why did KP want to know about where Kristen created her Freshman year god? Well, that question may be partially answered in our next section. 

God Stuff

There is a lot going on this season with celestial shenanigans between Cassandra and Galicaea and even Yes! So let’s mark out what we know.

1) Cassandra was possessed by some kind of rage entity via crystal shards that were expelled from her body. Her status is kind of up in the air right now as the party was shunted away to safety by Connor Counterspell (RIP) and all Kristen has left of Cass are some glowing, purple shards. 

2) Earlier in the fight, while lucid, Cassandra said, “I thought you were dead” about some unseen entity. Later, Kristen heard from a creepy voice that said, “She is at my side once more”. It then threatened her and slid out the rotting corpse of Yes! as a sick joke. Likely that these are the same person or at least connected. 

3) Gorgug identified that the rage stars are similar to what’s going on with Ragh’s mom, Lydia so it was put on the docket to get in touch with her about that–especially because Kalina specifically told them to track down Ragh with her last lucid words. 

4) Tracker’s Galicaea rebrand is going really well. Her social media is really popping and the endless night probably didn’t hurt. 

5) Kristen on the other hand, hasn’t been doing so hot. Due to a bunch of negligence based in lack of time management and personal uncertainty, she hasn’t been evangelizing much which means only she and Craig stand between Cass and her permanent destruction. 

6) Kristen can’t contact Cass telepathically and says she can’t use her magic which is Not Great if you're as danger prone as the Bad Kids. 

Alright, that’s all the old business so let’s move to the new business. 

7) When Kristen talked to her parents, we learned that Helio doesn’t have a chosen one since she left but we learn that it’s more serious than that. Helio also can’t choose a new chosen one. He only gets one. With Kristen gone, the whole religion is without a chosen one.

8) At a certain point, Tracker finally gets a hold of Kristen and says some harsh but true things about Kristen but, more relevant to the conspiracy board, she talks about her girlfriend Nara and Adaine, as a fellow high elf, clocks her as coming from a family of moon goddess clerics in Falinel. That raises the question: is this run of the mill teenage rebellion a la the theme song, or is she some kind of plant? We’ll hopefully get some more info from Aelwyn since Adaine texted her about it.

9) The real juicy stuff happens when we talk to Ragh’s mom. The fiend in Lydia's gem is called Bakur. Her having him in there doesn't make her rage--she's raging to keep him trapped but that's it. Her personality is the same. 

10) Bakur was a pit fiend and the right hand guy of a dead god whose name we don't know (hmm, another dead and nameless god). Bakur can't even say the god's name. It's like, weird god rules and Lydia explains in a weird vague way: gods not being able to use loopholes and saying names being powerful and rules changing for non-mortals when gods die.

11) The one very concrete info we get is that a god can only come back in a place where they were born or created. The reason Bakur’s plan failed is that he tried to bring back the nameless god in the Red Waste and not where they were created. 

12) Rana (Lydia’s party cleric) is away and Cormyr (the party sorcerer) is dead but Lydia offers to put the party in touch with Rana and Cormyr’s family because they have more stuff related to this and they were the ones who knew more about this than her. 

Following? Good. So let’s distill this down to bullets again:

Holy Helio. The corn god doesn’t have a chosen one anymore because Kristen up and left. What does that mean in a concrete sense? What can a chosen one do that a normal cleric can’t? Is Helio gonna ask Kristen to do anything this season now that we know that this is a special position that only one person can fill? Is it until she dies (or at least dies for real)? Would a fanatical Helioic person try and kill Kristen to open up that slot?

KP specifically asking WHERE Cassandra was created seems clearly tied to the info Lydia gave about only being able to resurrect a god where it was created. But what does that mean exactly? Is she trying to resurrect the same god as Bakur? Did she just assume that wherever Kristen made her god is probably where most gods are made and, thus, her best bet? What’s her angle? Is this an evil plan for just a “this will get me a good grade” plan?

Where in the world is Cassandra right now? She is MIA right now which means Kristen’s powers are too. Though I wonder if she can draw on those shards to cast spells.

We obviously can’t be sure but it seems like the voice Kristen heard and the person that Cass thought was dead is likely that unnamed god. What’s his deal? I’m sure we’ll have more info for this bullet soon. 

Is Tracker’s new girlfriend Nara, much like Ecaf, a turncoat? 

With Helio, Cass, and Galicaea all being in the mix, is there any kind of family angle being played. It doesn’t come up a ton but they are very much related. 

MISC

This is a section for a few points that don’t yet fit under the main two headings of the season but still need to go up on the board. 

Why would Aguefort program a robot that acts like Grix? Is he supposed to be like or is he hacked? If he is hacked, who would be able to do that? The new artificing teacher? The old one?

We learn that Aguefort has made a lot of contradicting proclamations and all of them are canon, so you’re able to pick and choose what you want to cite (I feel like I’m in law school again). Lots of room for loopholes which could be useful later. 

Adaine, while very drunk, had an oracle vision of Kristen at a birthday party, giving a victory speech to a bunch of teens on election night as a crescent moon hangs in the sky. The Crescent moon potentially gives them a time frame if they look into it (and it specifically being mentioned makes me think of Galicaea even though not every moon thing has to be connected to her). And we know Gorgug’s birthday is near the Frosty Folk festival so maybe that’s why the hats.

Speaking of, we know there’s a connection between Riz’s mom defending someone for money crimes re: that Festival and Gorgug’s parents hosting it so that’s something to remember. 

This isn’t something for the pin board per se but this season introduces a stress token system for downtime! I’m sure I’ll talk about it more when we use it for the first time next ep but, for now, gotta say he’s really ramping up the pressure on our kids! And, to that point, let’s do a quick check in with everyone and see what they’re up against!

Character Board

Adaine

-Adaine is still facing major money troubles. After last episode, not only is her job terminated, but she actually owes 2.5 gold for her uniform. 

-It looks like she might be developing a bit of a crush on the cute dragonborn (yay) but he’s a Rat Grinder (nooooo). I will say though, cross party romance could be a lot of fun and also my favorite NPC in this show is Aelwyn whose top 2 traits are famously Criminal and Loves Adaine so I am honestly fine with this either way lol. 

-Speaking of Aelwyn, I’ll put the sister stuff together: When Adaine calls her to ask for dirt on Nara she says, “Working, will call in five.” And when Adaine questions the fact that it's 5am on a Saturday, Adaine just gets a winky face emoji back. Suspicious! 

Fabian

-Fabian has to juggle the new 150% course load (bard/fighter) as well as his new party house reputation.

-He has a lack of adult supervision which also means a lack of adult care and it seems to be affecting him more than he’s willing to let on. 

-But honestly his biggest obstacle is probably himself right now, lol. He made himself a new nemesis in Gertie Bladshield and I am not confident he can handle this honey trap mission with Ivy without the tables being turned on him. 

Riz

-Riz is also facing money troubles, but for him that’s kind of business as usual unfortunately.

-He has a TON of extracurriculars to keep track of but he so far seems to be handling it pretty well and is picking up some interesting allies (that double as votes for Kristen’s campaign–campaign manager is also an extracurricular he’s taken up): the aforementioned Gertie Bladeshield (Apiary Club), Sprak LeFevre (Aviation Club), and Molman Holden (Soil Club). Always good to have new allies and Aviation Club seems like it could be really useful later! I can see him making some luck checks to successfully say, “I know a guy” in a tight spot based on how many clubs he’s joined. 

-He also has the Reliable Talent ability now which means he’s incapable of rolling lower than a 21 on things he’s proficient in which includes Investigation. We’re about to be getting some INSANE lore dumps. 

Gorgug

-Gorgug has his insane 400% courseload happening and I didn’t notice this until it was pointed out to me but Zac actually leveled Gorgug DOWN in Barbarian to take an extra level of Artificer! That’s commitment. But I can’t imagine Porter, who already has a problem with him, is gonna like that. 

Fig

-Fig would hate it if I didn’t start this list by saying that she hella misses Ayda and that’s her biggest problem. 

-But she also has her album to worry about and we actually get the bombshell during a conversation with Mazey that she’s not even sure that she still wants to be a bard.

-On top of that, she’s taking Barb and Warlock classes along with the Bard classes she’s finally going to. 

-She has her gnarly Gilear curse happening that’s seemingly connected to whoever the boss who owns the pride armor is. 

-She has beef with Rebuen and is living her double life as Wanda Childa to try and learn whatever she can about him/the Rat Grinders. 

-Both she and Wanda are wanted by the Solace FBI.  

-On a positive note, she really endeared herself to Mazey by sweetly sticking up for her when Ivy was being catty. If Fig wasn’t so devoted to Ayda I could have read their interaction at the end of the ep as flirty. Regardless, nice moment and great ally. 

Kristen

-Welp, her god is, if not dead, MIA which is arguably the biggest deal of anything on any of these lists, especially since it’s tied to her magic AND her grade. 

-Next of course is the potato to her meat on her plate: her campaign. But that’s actually going really well, especially after this party. Her biggest issue is whether or not she can get Fetty Wap to homecoming and, lbr, in a pinch Fig can just disguise herself as him. When has that ever not worked?

-She also has this unnamed god (or whoever it is) taunting her and threatening her specifically which isn’t ideal. 

-But I honestly think she was more fucked up by the conversation which Tracker where her ex basically outlined everything she needs to get together in her life and then posted a pre-written pic with her new girlfriend. That’s gotta sting. 

And that’s it! I wanted to focus on the specific nuggets of info we got this episode and start to connect them with what we knew so far. Different format, I know, but I’m feeling experimental this season and I might switch it up a few more times as Junior Year goes on. I love covering Fantasy High but, like I said at the top, I have to keep it fresh so I don’t burn out. See you next time when Brennan makes the stress we’re all feeling an actual game mechanic! Fun!

[basket-of-cats-and-witches]

Can't help falling in love (with you)

If you're a Lancer blog, for the love of god don't follow me. I'm a fanfic writer for the dumbest shit.

That being said, @corsair-mc-official , run by arguably one of my best friends, recently made a joke that I should pay them in Macguyver fic.

Ricky "Macguyver" Innes being my Lancer mechanic.

Anyway, fuck you Pines, I love you, enjoy this sappy shit. And surprise!

-------

“It's a deathtrap in here, Mac.”

Booker’s irritated growl only served to make Mac snort, stepping back further into the workshop.

“It's okay. I'm not gonna let your pretty ass eat shit. Just trust me.” As he said that, his foot hit a metal can, sending it skittering across the cement floor.

Booker stopped in place, somehow managing to level Mac a look even through the blindfold.

“Sure. I trust you. I trust you to get me killed.”

The warm, husky chuckle of his husband forced a smile onto Booker's face. He squeezed Mac’s hands tighter, holding onto them as the pair took step after careful step.

All the years they'd spent at each other’s throats leading to this.

A loving marriage to the second-most backwater hick Booker had ever met, a quaint house attached to a mechanic shop, and two very squirrely dogs.

When Booker had joined Corsair, he'd certainly never have imagined this outcome. The mere thought of being married to someone who wore a camo baseball cap and a ratty old Corsair t-shirt covered in oil stains would have sent him shrieking in the other direction.

Yet, here he was.

“We're almost there, baby,” Mac said softly. Anyone from Corsair would've laughed themselves sick to hear the gruff mechanic speaking so sweetly, and even Booker was loathe to admit the way it melted his heart. Mac’s love was a hardwon, delicate thing, almost as beautiful as Crimson Empress.

Almost.

“And here. Stay here for a second.” Mac let go, and Booker nearly reached out to snatch those rough hands back. Already he missed the steady warmth of them, gritting his teeth and curling his fingers into fists at his side.

“Please,” Booker drawled. “Don't rush on my account. Not like I'm getting any older over here.”

There was that sweet laugh again, followed by a click and a soft humming whirr. “It's okay. You've only gotten prettier with age, you prissy fucking cat.”

He scoffed. “I'd like to think that out of the options, I'd rather be something cooler than a cat.”

“Like a griffon?”

“Yes, like a- I hate you. Stop reading my mind.”

The hands returned, skimming delicately over his cheekbones. They teased the edge of the blindfold, leaving his skin tingling in their wake.

The knot came undone. Booker blinked in the sudden light.

“Surprise.” Mac murmured.

The workshop had been redecorated in strands of tiny lights, anchored to the remnants of Daisy, Mac’s old Sagarmatha. The helmet was big enough to occupy a fair bit of the workshop on its own.

A few beaten up rugs had been centered in the middle of the room, a workbench cleared for a makeshift charcuterie board, some wine, and two glasses.

Booker tried to force his eyes to stop stinging. “Ricky…you know I hate it when you're a sap.” He glanced at his favorite mechanic, his one and only husband. “Is it really our anniversary already?”

“Mmhm.” Mac walked off, lighting a scented candle and fiddling with an old stereo system until familiar music came crooning out of it.

“This is…how did you convince that pyromaniac to let you borrow this?” Booker stepped forward, taking Mac’s outstretched hand.

Mac grinned. “Pulled a favor. And maybe blackmailed Floyd.” He pulled Booker into a slow waltz, easily taking the lead.

It should have annoyed Booker more. Instead, he couldn't help but be charmed.

This is what love did to a man.

“You're an idiot, Mac,” Booker said affectionately.

Mac leaned up, kissing his husband softly. “I know. But I'm your idiot. And I…can't help falling in love with you…” he sung softly, matching the song on the stereo.

Booker leaned down, hiding his face in Mac’s shoulder.

“I love you too,” he choked out, trying not to cry as they swayed together.

[caramelteaa]

First meeting

A short one shot frubbo fic set in the owl house/the crow house au

Word count: 721

The usage of portal is highly restricted. Witches and demons don't tend to care about the human realm. And that's okay!

WA02 don't mind studying alone.

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

WA02 has never seen the human realm before.

Well, none of his colleagues either.

Considering the portal usage is prohibited, and no one but Mr. [Redacted] has the right to use a portal (maybe his boss has accompanied him before?).

But that's okay. They have access to the Federation's library for study purposes, with their rank and all. In the back rows where the shelves are gathering dust, there's a couple of books and documents either written by past researchers, or materials from the actual human realm, they call it Earth.

So what if he has read all of them dozens of times? It's fascinating how different the human realm seems to be from Quesadilla Island and the entirety of Boiling Isles! Even if the soil seems to be roughly the same, apparently the sky is an array of blue hues, the foliage are green like emeralds instead of red like blood, and the rain isn't boiling nor does the sea cook you alive!

If there ever comes a chance, They would love to see it with their own eyes. A realm that seems more peaceful, painted in cooler tones and flora they can only dream of. But until then, his break is over, duty awaits. WA02 checks out his books at the front desk and puts on their mask, and starts their daily patrol.

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

Now, running into someone you know might not always be pleasant, but being run INTO by someone you don't know is PAINFUL. WA02 sits up trying their hardest to remain their composure, would be easier said than done with them covered in dirt and surrounded with scrolls that's not his. They soon find the culprit, currently face deep in......THEIR BOOKS! They snatched back his (borrowed, mind you) belongings, and are face to face with the most brilliant mix of blue, green, and brown.

"WHERE DID YOU GET THESE?!"

"Pardon???"

"NONE OF THE LIBRARIES I'VE EVER BEEN TO HAS THIS MUCH INFO ON THE HUMAN REALM!!!"

"Uhh......"

They start to walk away with their books now safe and sound in his bag. Too bad this stanger seems to not catch on the fact they are working because the boy with a mop of brown hair who almost ran over them is now bombarding them with questions like "How much do you know about the human realm?" and " Why do you have books that's not listed anywhere?" and "Why are you wearing a creepy mask with no face?"

The sudden stop caused the brunette to bump into them(again) and shut him up for a brief moment. WA02 turns around, looking at the boy with pretty eyes expectantly.

"...What? Oh." The brunette said, seems to finally catch on to their outfit.

"You're a guard from the Federation's Coven."

"Yes."

"Is that why you have those books and scrolls?"

"......Classified"

"That's not a no, bossman."

"......" WA02 turns back around.

"WAIT WAIT WAIT! Do you like the human realm? Not that you have ever been here since no one can, but do you though? I love it since they seems to have amazing technology and and the-"

They sighed, rather loudly for them.

"What can I do to make you leave me to my work?"

"Can I borrow your books?" He wastes no time, huh.

"No."

"Can I steal your books?"

"No."

"Can I read them under your supervision?"

"......Fine." WA02 really doesn't want to wrangle some guy who just announced wanting to steal his borrowed books.

"REALLY?" The brunette said, with sparks in his eyes.

"I'm busy for the rest of the weekdays so it has to be Sunday night, past 6 pm."

"IT'S A DEAL! We'll meet back here, and if you don't show up I'll track you down."

The brunette yelled as he ran back to the papers that he never picked up ever since he ran into him and brought both of them to the ground, waving goodbye.

"BETTER BE READY, FREDDY!"

Their name is NOT Freddy. Fred might be an okay name, not that they need a one.

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

That night, WA02 returns to their room, exhausted as usual, planting their face into his crisp bed sheets. They think back on the encounter they had with the boy who asks too many questions, with curious glints in his pretty eyes.

WA02 falls asleep dreaming of earthly delights.

[eljeebee]

The family kept to themselves while on the beach. Both Margaux and Bernie lay on the beach towels, sunbathing. They had helped each other put on sunscreen.

Julie chose to swim around the waters, cooling off from the summer heat.

Later on, Margaux and Penrose chatted with each other, as they build a sandcastle.

Bernie had borrowed a canoe, and sailed around. Julie watched him from a safe distance in the water.

"Bernie!!!" Julie called, waving.

Bernie pumped his fist in the air, "Aye, aye, Lady Julie!"

Seamus spent that time chatting away with Perlas. He listened as she told him random bits of her life.

"At nights," she said, "I would swim in the ocean."

"Isn't that dangerous?" Seamus asked. They swung from the swing set. "What if you drown? And then no one can see you."

Perlas chuckled. "Oh, but I've lived here since I was born, Mousse. I know the waters."

"...yeah," Seamus flushed, embarrassed. Of course, he thought. What were you thinking? She lived here all of her life!

"I understand your concern though," she smiled. "So, don't worry. On stormy nights, I keep to my hut."

"That's good," he said. "Does it make a difference? Swimming at night?"

Perlas shrugged. "The water is cooler, perhaps."

"I'd love to try night swimming," he thought out loud. "But I'm sure they won't allow me. I might drown."

"Then maybe I can accompany you!"

previous | next

[sunnys-sonnets]

Is there any outfit you like Atreus to be drawn in and or how you mostly imagine him in your fics, what clothes and what attire?

Not the question you asked but I think I do actually like his canon start clothing the best. While the metal armor is practical and elegant in its own way, I like softer vibes. The gentle colors on him and how the fabrics look worn and loved and stitched over and over are so nice. As for what I like seeing Atreus drawn in? I don't know. Maybe nothing 😂 Maybe seeing him in his canon-type clothing more often would be cool- but then I think of all the cute ideas we keep seeing like Modern AU stuff like fun, colorful sweaters and shorts. Even if I don't particularly lean towards Modern AU stuff, it's always nice to see the variety. Or loose fabrics that he's been draped in are so nice and it's fun to see his freckles 🤭

Depends on the fics. Mischief and Foresight has him in his canon gear for the most part. A Hint of Magic is very much up to the imagination because of the vague descriptions given, though his newer outfits do come from the cloths Heimdall gives him. Any fics that take place in the canon universe I picture him in canon gear. In Your Toy, the Modern AU, I imagine colorful big sweaters in the cooler weather to show off his fun and more childish side, and regular jean-like shorts(blue or green) and still colorful baggy shirts slightly tucked in to whatever shorts or pants he's wearing. And maybe stuff he'd borrow from friends or Heimdall to play with.

[gyumimiz]

1. fever dream high in the quiet of the night

the train runs through fields and meadows as you’re reading the last chapter of the book you borrowed from the library before your trip. the window above your head is slightly open and the wind is making your hair a little bit of a mess. but it feels nice. the air outside smells like warmth and summer. you slowly start to recognize your surroundings, meaning you’re close to your destination. you start to look for the sea which should appear soon somewhere among the hills. 

you quickly pack your things to the backpack when the train reaches its final destination. you get off, surrounded by tourists also coming here for the holidays. parents with their kids, elderly couples and groups of teenagers fill the train station as you’re trying to find haerim among them. 

finally, after looking around for like ten minutes you spot a brown haired girl with two braids waving at you. “there she is”, you mutter to yourself. big grin appears on your face as you make your way to your cousin and you two hug each other so tight you almost can’t catch your breath.

“i missed you so much i thought i’ll die if i won’t see you soon” she admits while trying to help you with carrying your baggage “jesus, what did pack there?”

“yeah i’m glad to see you too. and you know, it’s hard to decide which clothes to bring knowing you will probably force me to go to the parties with you each weekend”

“not this year my friend!” she shakes her head “i told you, i’ve already met the prettiest boy on this planet. i mean... i haven’t met him but i will, i mean WE will.”

right after you unpack your stuff in haerim’s bedroom, you two decide to go for a night walk along the coast. it’s finally cooler outside and the moon and stars shine so beautifully that night, you can’t take your eyes off them, taking hundreds of photos with your phone of the night sky.

you wander along the path by the sea, talking about everything and, at the same time, nothing at all. you grumble about your exams and complain about the fact that you just graduated from high school, but you have nothing figured out. she talks about how she hates living in such a small village because nothing really happens here except summertime and she can’t wait to move to a bigger city. you can’t really understand her, because you would love to live there. you love it when nothing is happening because it’s just so peaceful. your cousin is like the total opposite of you. but maybe that’s why you get along that well. 

since it’s only the first week of summer vacation, there aren’t too many tourists yet. you pass only a few couples and families on your way. the villas near the seaside seem to still be empty and waiting for their owner to come to visit for the holidays. it’s so quiet here. but only until you two hear loud laughs and screams from one of the mansions. some men, or maybe boys, judging by their voices, are probably having a lot of fun up there on the terrace.

of course, your cousin stops and tilts up her head to see their faces. probably to see if one of them is her type or whatever, you think. you just roll your eyes and cross your arms, not really interested in the whole situation.

“oh my god” she says and covers her mouth too late to stop herself from saying that.

you take a deep breath and look up. 

you see a group of five guys, clearly enjoying their time together. they all look as if they were around your age. one of them has bleached hair which, at first, kind of draws your attention. 

he caughts you two staring and smiles. more towards haerim than you.

“hello!” he says, which makes the other one turn around to check who’s his friend talking to. 

and then you feel weird. like, the world kind of stops, as you catch eye contact with the brown-haired boy. he is gorgeous. because handsome is too little to say, you just have to say he is gorgeous. 

he holds half empty bottle of champagne in his hand and you can clearly see he is already a bit drunk. but his dazed eyes and messy hair make him look as if he was straight from a romance movie. he smiles softly, which makes you look away and catch your friend’s hand to pull her with you as you walk away.

“heyy nice to meet you, wait!” but you just say to your friend: let’s go haerim it’s late “we still have some champagne left!” you still hear the voice of one of the boys behind your back

“what are you doing? they invited us and you just...” haerim starts but you cut her off

“bestie, be serious, we’re not drinking with strangers” 

“you really are no fun, that was this boy i told you about!” she complains on your way home.

okay, you can admit. he was pretty. maybe even more than pretty. maybe even the prettiest boy you’ve ever seen. 

well it doesn’t matter now, that you’re all comfortable and cozy in your bed with grumpy haerim laying by your side. she is still kind of mad at you that you ignored the pretty boy and just walked away. but you’re sure that tomorrow she’ll just find another one to admire and forget about the guys you saw tonight. 

and, of course, so will you. 

note: i know it’s short but i just wanted to upload the first chapter already:D i really hope u liked it and sorry for the mistakes (i haven’t really checked it) also, i will upload playlist soon and let me know if you want to be added to the taglist (or removed). as for now i only added people who commented on main post<3

please interact with this post because i see no point in writing this if it has like 3 likes after idk like 2 weeks

masterlist

taglist: @choijxn @flwerfield @felixrs @yxnjvnnie @reetxjaitly @babigriin

[athensandspartaadventures]

Yes that meme's what im referring to many thx! Oh I love your answer Corinth running to Syracuse (i guess) for help is so cute and Persia's reaction is definitely the coolest (cooler than all Greeks) but watch out for your beloved subjects Persia :-D Also love the awkward way Sparta reacts to whatever immediate crisis lol. Would you mind also do 17 for Athens and 18 for major characters in aasa as well? I'm curious for your characters and really find your headcanons lovely.

for sure! and thank you :) i'm glad you enjoy them!

17. Is your character holding any grudges? Are they likely to stop?

I guess in a way the plot of AaSA is Athens's grudges, haha, he will remember something minor from the bronze age that doesn't really matter, but then he's also kind of flippant and forgets a lot of things, both his own actions and those of others. I think he's more likely to make up a grievance almost on the spot by chapter 5, though he doesn't really keep track of them (as opposed to Persia, who had to remind Darius at every meal not to forget his grudge against Athens, lol)

18. If your character were trapped on a deserted island, what three things would they want to have with them? Which person would they absolutely hate to be trapped there with? Which person would they enjoy being trapped there with?

Athens, salesman that he is, would want tons and tons of olive oil (multi purpose! long term storage! shiny skin and hair!), which of course comes with pottery, so a stylus to scribble on any potsherds (accidents and ostracisms would of course happen!) would probably come in handy, and the delian league members are kind of like objects rather than people right? and...

Sparta would want his comb (and begrudgingly borrow some of Athens' oil), probably the thicker of his two cloaks (you never know), and a musical instrument of some kind (likely his pipes).

Corinth would probably want a weighing scale (someone is going to have to set up a currency on this island), her hair dye or at least her bleaching hat (hours and hours of sunlight on a desert island? she couldn't waste All of them), and she'd probably take some expensive bauble in her collection to barter for passage off that rock.

Ionia would probably want something to read (not practical, but at least no one can enforce what she can or can't do on a desert island), maybe some kind of navigation device antikythera mechanism?, and maybe some seeds or something? idk if she actually knows how to plant things but I think she'd have like, Too Much confidence.

Persia would probably want like, a nice drinking cup or bowl (hes not going to be humiliating himself drinking with his hands), uh, does his bow and arrows count as an object? at least the bow, what if there's wild game on this island etc. Much as he loves his cats, i don't think he'd want them there to end up as food, so he'd probably want something practical like a pot to make stew or tea with for his little bowl, haha. I think despite his reputation he was quite self sufficient in his youth.

Everyone would hate being stuck with Athens, but I think he wouldn't mind being stuck with the others because he thinks of most of them as "friends"...(though with Persia it's like "if you die, i'm going to eat you!"). Sparta and Corinth would initially not mind each other, but then they'd get into such big arguments about whether to wait for help or to try to do something that they'd be at each other's throats in no time. Persia would probably like someone like Sardis or Ionia there to talk to (the others would be too busy arguing or being petty to work with him).

[dil-ibaadat]

Hellooo! This is the anon who sent you the West Wing youtube clip.

I was shy and hence posted anonymously but you’re so sweet that I couldn’t help revealing myself! 🙈

Full disclaimer that I’ve never watched the West Wing but have always kinda wanted to because I love that sort of old timey witty American drama, even if it’s politics I don’t fully understand and it is a full testament to your talent and writing prowess that I now really feel like watching the show to get all the references from your fic 🙈Alas, it’ll have to wait since I have an exam but I shall get to it right after hopefully!

I’ve read this first chapter about 5 times ( I am not joking), I can’t even explain why I love it so much! You’ve combined two series’ with such finesse! There’s so much depth and character even within this fanfictiony world and I can’t even begin to grasp how sexy it is? The whole premise and how it’s so befitting for Kanthony and the rest of the Bridgerton clan too!

I love how you’ve not made it just a love story but like an actual world with seemingly real people trying to actually make a difference - that whole bit with Tom saying ‘this is going to be the greatest thing they’ll do’ is just so epic.

I can’t wait to see how the election unfolds now that Kate is almost winning! I wish this was an actual show, that’s how amazingly you’ve pulled me in 😬

I now get your references for the characters and it’s funny how initially before reading, I just assumed Anthony and Kate would be modelled on Josh and Donna (since they were the only two characters I sort of knew from the West Wing) but your interpretation of them contesting for President is way cooler and makes for so much more angst and drama.

Sorry for such a long ask, I’m genuinely so happy and eager to read your wonderful fic and I really hope you write many many more stories because your talent is just astonishing. 😍 Dowry is one of my favourites in the fandom. Shoutout to @folklauerate too as I realise this is both of your time and effort! (My favourite fic of hers is Hold Onto You and the Heist Society one!)

I’d like to end with getting the Chris Traeger reference too! I now know who Sam Seaborn is. 🙈

oh, wow. this is one of the loveliest messages i have ever received. <3 thank you so much for taking the time to send it!!!!! i'm so pleased you like the writing and the general vibe :)))

as for watching the west wing, we're doing our best to make sure it's not necessary to have watched the show in order to get the fic. if you have, you probably recognize some scenes (directly ripped off from scenes and dialogue in the show), and some character sketches, but beyond a few elements of plot, background, and surface-level characterization, this fic universe will feel a bit different from the show. we're borrowing the universe, the idealism, and the feel-good, hard-but-worth-it political reality constructed in the show. it's a wild, escapist political AU, all in good fun. we hope you'll like it! :)

i find it interesting you say you thought the dynamic between kanthony would be a josh/donna type deal, because i did consider that when i began writing it. it was sort of my go-to, but then i realized i've seen the boss/secretary dynamic many times in shows and it's gotten a bit stale for me. i've also noticed that oftentimes, the female love interest is put in the assistant-position, which to me feels a bit antiquated. at the same time, it's hard for me to imagine anthony in donna's position because the power dynamic between anthony and kate was very different in canon, so i ended up nixing that thought because i wanted them to start off as equals.

that said, there are other bridgerton ships that could fit the dynamic really well! josh and donna are interesting because they're introduced as this enmeshed, basically-married duo that are on a slowburn, friends-to-lovers arc. i think polin could work really well with that storyline, with maybe penelope as josh to shake things up (i think colin as her assistant who switched a lot of lanes in college and career-wise could be really, really interesting, and maybe one of pen's sisters could be dead, to give that additional edge of angst to the already complicated featherington dynamics aaaaaand i better stop before i end up writing this too!).

moreover, i originally began writing this fic because i was interested in exploring a kate-tom friendship a la jed and leo. and in order to do that, i had to make kate president. and then the idea grew legs, because i actually adore the idea of kate as a thirty-something, obama-type figure who's pulled in the opposite directions of radical liberal idealism and centrist pragmatism and anthony as a jaded, conflicted, entrenched dynastic political figure who's caught in this quagmire of expectations. in a way, anthony's still conflicted about his relationship with kate in this AU because it directly conflicts with his personal ambitions and his desire to make his dad proud, so that's canon-accurate but also repackaged in a fun, fresh way.

i don't know. i think it's neat. it's a neat AU. and @folklauerate has so many great ideas and juicy bits of characterization and plot and pitch-perfect writing -- it's gonna be so good, i'm gonna scrreeeeaaaammmm.

finally, thank you so much for being here in my inbox and sending this ask. i've been having days on and off for the past few months where i seriously question my writing and purpose and it's comments and messages like this that stop me from giving it all up and moving to kazakhstan and taking up, i don't know, goat-farming (or is it kyrgyzstan ;D, you tell me). i really appreciate it.

[allthemusic]

Week beginning: 29th September

Fresh from the horrors of Close the Door, are we going to be back on an even keel? Just going off the titles, I suspect so, with at leastw one track that's got to be a Western theme.

The Man from Laramie - Jimmy Young (peaked at Number 1)

Not only a Western theme, but a popular Western theme - this song reached Number 1! It was apparently from a film of the same name, whose summary sounds incredibly bloody - a quick scan and I'm immediately seeing rival cattle barons, shooting mules, selling rifles to Apaches and people being thrown over cliffs. I don't know how much this was par for the course, though. Maybe all Westerns were just a bit like that.

It starts strong, with a strummy beat that keeps up throughout the song, and lyrics about how the titular man form Laramie was a man with a peaceful turn of mind / He was kinda sociable and friendly / As friendly as can be. Sounds like a nice fellow, the sort of guy your grandma would approve of.

But then, the twist, as you find out that you never saw a man outdraw / The man from Laramie. He may be a dear, but he's also a crack shot and a badass with multiple notches in his gun - I particularly enjoy the line about how There was no coyote who could outshot / The man from Laramie.

Aside from that, we also learn that he has a flair for ladies and that The ladies loved his air of mystery. So we're adding a few more layers. Honestly, this guy is a Mary Sue. I mean, he's lovely and likable, but also a badass who shoots people, plus he's a chick magnet? Could he even be cooler?! Strong main character energy.

On a small note, I also really like the melodrama of the line about how Danger was this man's specialty. It's such a cheesy, pulpy line, used without any irony at all, and I just think it's neat.

There's a few touches later on from some backing singers - presumably the man from Laramie's army of swooning broads - but otherwise, the song just keeps trotting along pleasingly enough. As a cheesy pulp Western theme, it does its job just fine. I might watch this film, if it was on at the cinema back in 1955.

Love Me Or Leave Me - Sammy Davis Jr. (8)

This song did not fare as well in the charts as Jimmy did, which is a shame, because it's excellent. It starts jazzy and speedy, a real energetic toe-tapper that I almost immediately realised that I know and really like already!

It's a standard, taken from a 1928 musical comedy called Whoopee! that looks rather silly. This song is definitely the breakout from that play, sung by a singer called Ruth Etting, who got a boost from a 1955 filjm about her life, named after this song, where she was played by none other than Doris Day. So that explains why we're seeing versions of it at this point - it was a retro throwback song!

It starts strong, as mentioned - all energy and brash trumpets, and Sammy imploring his love to Love me or leave me / Or let me be lonely, insisting that I'd rather be lonely, than happy with someone else. There's something kind of beautiful about that, as a sentiment, I guess? It's romantic, at least.

I love the internal rhymes, too, especially in the second verse as we hear that You might find the night time / The right time for kissing / But night time is my time / For just reminiscing / Regretting instead of forgetting with somebody else. That's some good, solid word-smithing, right there, and again, it captures Sammy's desire to be alone, rather than move on from what at least seems to be an unrequited love.

We get some more lines about how I want your love / But I don't want to borrow, and then the best bit of the song begins, as a saxophone blares, and then Sammy launches into a rapid stretch of scatting, and I won't make a fool of myself by transcribing what he's actually saying, but just know that he makes the wildest mix of sounds, changing on a dime and picking out a completely different rhythm on top of some bass and keys with such energy and aplomb. He's throwing himself into it in a way that is just undeniably sexy, somehow. I can just tell, even via the audio, that this guy had stage presence.

And then we get a sax solo, introduced with a blasting notes and a shouted Blow, Sam! which is probably my favourite way that anybody can introduce a solo. I just like it when the singer gives their soloist a shout-out, okay?

And then the song brings it home with another few verses, livened up with a few handclaps, this time. It's a final excellent element of a song that doesn't ever let up or slacken off. The song starts strong, and remains strong all the way through, and honestly, it should be so much more well known than it is! What a banger!

I think my favourite is clear, here. Honestly, it's a shame - any other week, The Man from Laramie would have a real fighting chance, with its pulpy Western charm. But the star of the show today is clear. You can't beat a jazz number, if you throw the right energy at it, and Sammy's song is the definition of "the right energy". If you have not listened to it, go listen!

Favourite song of the bunch: Love Me Or Leave Me