#monica Barbaro make-up

[dagger-hangster]

Monica Barbaro / Gotham Awards

Make-up: Mélanie Inglessis

Source: Mélanie Inglessis Instagram

[beheworthy]

The above ones we know because these pics are straight from the shooting of the movie. The below ones I'm assuming because they fit the role:

Halle Berry could play 2 roles: Angie - Lou's wife who cheats on him & Sharon - the insurance broker helping Davis. I think she'll play Sharon because it gives her more to do and scenes w all the key players Davis, Lou, and Ormon.

There are other characters, too: Money - the guy that turns Davis' robberies into cash The jewel shop owner and his brother-in-law who Davis robs:

The rich businessman coming to the family wedding with truckload of jewels that Davis aims as his final heist. The person acting as a carrier of those jewels. And the businessman's security guard:

I know everything revolves around Davis in the story but it really is Lou's story. Not even Davis has as much screentime as him, and everyone else has only 2-3 scenes each. Like I've said before, they will have to beef up Davis to justify first billing Chris. But more importantly, the fact that they've cast such good actors for all parts tells me they will surely expand on everything and give everyone meatier stuff. Excellent. Because I want more Ormon and Traci.

Something else that's interesting is everyone's age. It plays a crucial role in the story. Davis and Lou's age is never said but from context clues, Davis is supposed to be late thirties or early forties at best. He's been living this robber lifestyle a long time and it's taking a toll on him. He can't keep robbing the same area forever. He changes homes every few days, has virtually no belongings because he needs to be able to flee anywhere at the drop of a hat. Cannot keep any contact with anyone. Lies left right and center about himself, even to Traci - someone he does want more with. It's shown in the strain it puts between them.

Because Traci is supposed to be early thirties. She's participating in this on-and-off thing with him. But she can't keep doing this forever. She wants more from him. I felt for her.

Pedro Pascal was totally wrong casting for Lou. Because Lou should be early fifties and laid back. He's seen too much. He is a boring guy no one gives a second look.

Ormon's whole thing is that he is a decade younger than Davis, that's why he is better than him. Because he is 'fresher' (and so damn creepy haha).

Angie is bored of her long marriage, of boring Lou and wants excitement. I like the contrast of Lou losing his partner because she doesn't want him. And Davis losing his /because/ she wants him. And Lou is learning to be happy to let her go and choose himself. And Davis is hurting in losing Traci because she is the only person in his life of impermanence with whom he does have something to return home to.

Sharon is also supposed to be older and coming to her expiry date like Davis is. She wants to get out before she gets caught, just like him.

McGuire is Lou's younger partner, more full of life in contrast to the jaded Lou.

Money also thinks Ormon is a better alternative to the seasoned Davis because Davis is bound to get caught sooner rather than later simply because of the amount of robberies he has done in his life.

[new-sandrafilter]

What makes Timothée’s performance work in your eyes? What did he crack open?

I think what’s so wonderful about what Timmy is doing is that, while not answering questions about Bob, at the same time I think he does in a very poetic way, which is to suggest really empathically through his performance how one might want to make music, but one might not want to have people in your face all the time. And I think in a way, Bob answers that… Timmy, who I’m used to calling Bob sometimes, answers that question. I think he walks a really beautiful line of allowing an audience to see what a joy it is for this character to make music and what pure joy he experiences in his camaraderie with other musicians and his exploration of ideas and words and music, both making it and listening to others. Where Timmy also does something really quite profound is to show you his almost genetically predisposed discomfort with what his own great achievements then bring upon him and that, in terms of people wanting things, transactional relationships, or relationships that are tainted by the immense power and talent. 

And I think he does an incredible job of growing the character up, because one of the things I think that will be startling is, most Dylan fans don’t focus on the boy in the newsboy cap who’s arriving in town. And Timmy really carries this character from a 19-year-old boy telling tales of working on the carnival into this person that we recognize as an icon. Timmy finds the path to carry us there. It’s going to be impossible for people in trailers or teasers or photos to see, but the way he grows this character is a real act of acting brilliance in my opinion.

That’s also high-stakes. How did you get to a place where that was comfortable?

Every one of these things comes with the fact that you can always fix it. You want everyone putting everything on the line every moment. But it’s not [like] if one of our actors hit a bad note, I don’t have an alternative take or the ability to replace that one beat. If Timmy’s brave enough to stand out there and make himself vulnerable, throwing himself at this, I should be brave enough to stand behind the camera and shoot. And Timmy was a partner in this. He very much wanted to. And the multiple years of preparation that we had on this movie because of false starts with Covid and stuff meant that Timmy really had a kind of incubation as a musician that was years in happening. And Monica Barbaro as well. She was cast when we were gonna make the movie before Indy. So a lot of these people have been in place for an incredible amount of time, and used that time incredibly successfully in their own musical journey.

[nolita-fairytale]

call sign: tennessee whiskey | rooster x fem!reader & hangman x phoenix | chapter five

summary: to celebrate a job well done, the dagger squads skips the hard deck for the night and goes dancing.

warnings: fluff, enemies to lovers, swearing, mentions of death, military & aircraft carrier inaccuracies, second person pov

wc: 4.9k

listen to: un ratito - bad bunny | la bachata - manuel turizo |the playlist

a/n: this chapter was inspired by a night out i once spent salsa dancing in san diego, monica barbaro in 'at midnight', and that video of monica barbaro & greg tarzan davis dancing in the space cowboy suits that seems to now be deleted lol. if you're not familiar with bachata, 10/10 recommend checking this video out to get an idea of just how sensual of a dance it is. rooster x reader smut coming next!! who's ready to find out how she got her callsign?

chapter four | masterlist | chapter six

The USS Theodore Roosevelt docks mid morning, and everyone aboard is eager to sleep in a proper bed tonight. You’d take the XL Twin sized beds over sleeping on an aircraft carrier any day, especially if there’s a Rooster Bradshaw in one with you. You’ve been so preoccupied with Rooster post-mission, having stayed the entire night with him. You’d fallen asleep with him in the hospital bed and, despite protocol, the medics onboard didn’t have the heart to ask you to leave. 

It’s not until you return to your sleeping quarters to pack up your things while everyone else is at breakfast that you come up for air. You’ve been totally wrapped up in your own world post-mission, that it’s almost time to offboard. After packing up your things, you meet Rooster, recently released from the carrier’s infirmary. 

“You ready?” he asks, a smile on his face as soon as he sees you. 

“I’m ready,” you agree, taking his hand in yours. 

As the two of you walk down the ramp, the familiar faces and bright shine of the San Diego sun make you realize that you really have been in your own world with Rooster – one where only you and he exist. You spot Coyote walking down the ramp with Halo, but what you see next catches you off guard. It’s Hangman and Phoenix walking together in stride. You tug on Rooster’s arm, since you’re not too far behind them, signaling to him that you want to get closer. 

They’re not arguing… they’re not killing each other. 

They’re… civil. Nice, almost. 

And was that a smile? Did Phoenix just… smile at something the blonde had said?!

“Oh my god!” you blurt out. The gasp escaping your lips causes both Hangman and Phoenix to turn around to look at you. The rest of the crew that are also in process of offboard walk around the four of you, shooting disgruntled looks as you block the walkway. 

“Sorry,” Rooster mutters to a passerby, before motioning for the four of you to at least step to the side. 

You look from Hangman to Phoenix, and suddenly, you can’t stop laughing. 

An innocent bystander would have no idea, but you know the both of them like the back of your hand. 

And it’s written all over their faces. 

“Oh my god!” you repeat yourself, your voice higher pitched as your jaw practically drops onto the ramp. “You guys totally did it!”

Rooster snorts, thinking that this must be a joke. But when you continue laughing, when neither Hangman nor Phoenix fire back with some snarky remark or exclamation of denial, Rooster thinks you might be right. 

“Wait, what?!” he exclaims, looking from you, then to Jake and Natasha. “Seriously?!”

“Whiskey,” Jake groans, shaking his head. He exchanges glances with Phoenix before continuing with, “I swear to God, she's like a truffle pig but for hookups.”

His smartass comment only confirms your suspicions, and Nat is turning bright red, unable to make eye contact with you right now. Rooster’s jaw practically drops as you squeal with delight, ready to brag about your special skill. 

“It’s a talent,” you shrug, proudly. “That's how I knew all through the Naval Academy that Jake was a wh-.”

“Hoooooookay. You’re done Whiskey,” Jake cuts you off, practically dragging you away from Rooster’s grasp along with him so that he can give you a talkin’ to about what’s appropriate to say when. 

Rooster laughs again, watching as you and Jake bicker like siblings, before turning his attention over to Phoenix. 

“You wanna talk about it?” he asks, doubtful that she’ll say yes.

“Nope,” she answers, popping the ‘p’ sound at the end of the word. 

“Fair enough,” Rooster accepts with a nod. 

“What I do want to talk about…. is you two,” Nat redirects, nodding her head towards where you and Jake have moved to. “Don’t think I didn’t notice she never came back to her bunk last night.”

The way that Rooster smiles is all she needs to know, and she considers this a huge win, exchanging a look with her best friend. 

“That good, huh?” she smirks, raising an eyebrow. 

“No! We haven’t even-, you know,” Bradley blushes, suddenly shy. 

“Damn. You really are ready to settle down, huh?” Nat responds, as she reads his expression. 

Rooster nods, returning his attention back to you again. He watches you playfully punch Jake in the chest, causing him to double over. 

“She’s great, Nat. She’s… I don’t know. She’s really fucking great,” he sighs, completely and totally infatuated with you. 

By the time Rooster and Phoenix catch up with you and Jake, you and Jake have finished your conversation – one where you mostly congratulated him and told him that she was the best he’d ever get so he better not fuck up. 

“Breakfast, anyone?” Nat asks, her eyes moving from you to Rooster. 

“Not you,” she adds, by the time her eyes make it to Jake. 

He rolls his eyes at her comment, but inside, he loves the fire she has within her. 

“Uh… yeah. Give me a second?” you request, shooting Rooster a look. 

“Yeah, we’ll give you guys a second,” Nat says, practically tugging Jake along with her. 

You watch as they go, a few strides ahead of you and Rooster so you can talk. 

“So… that’s kind of wild,” Rooster mentions, in reference to Nat and Jake. 

“Yes and also sort of… not surprising?” you suggest, earning a quizzical look from Rooster. 

Instead of continuing the conversation about Nat and Jake, you’d much rather talk about what could happen when you get back to the barracks. You take a beat, ready to shift the conversation.

“You wanna get out here? I could… tell Nat no.  Skip breakfast…. We could catch up to Hangman and Phoenix… considering they beat us to the punch?” you propose, raising an eyebrow. 

Normally, you’d never cancel on a friend for a guy, but after two weeks and a near-deadly mission, the sexual tension between the two of you is palpable. 

“As tempting as that offer sounds, I gotta go to the medical center on base for a second check up. Make sure I get a clean bill of health on land too,” Rooster replies, unable to hide how disappointed he is that he has to do this first. 

“Ugh, leave it to me to get cockblocked by the US Navy… again,” you groan, eliciting a laugh from Rooster. “You want me to go with you? 

“No it’s okay. Go to breakfast with Nat,” he says, nodding his head towards her and Jake.  

You smirk, “You just want the hot gossip don’t you, Badshaw?”

“Fuck yeah. And you better send me live updates,” he begs, earning a laugh from you too.  

You reach out, placing a gentle kiss on his lips, before Rooster’s wrapping an arm around your shoulders and you’re heading back to the barracks. Nat’s already got a place picked out that she texts you with a message suggesting you invite Halo too. After changing into your civvies, you and Nat decide to head out together to the beachside diner only a few blocks from the Hard Deck. 

Hangman: So I make you cum twice and still don’t get invited to breakfast? What’s a guy gotta do?

Phoenix: Try for three next time and I might consider extending the invitation.

Hangman: So you're saying there’s a next time? ;)

Natasha rolls her eyes at the last text, putting her phone away as the waitress approaches your table with the drip coffees you’ve just ordered. You both mutter a quick, polite thank you before taking them, fixing your coffee just the way you like it. 

“Halo didn’t want to come?” Nat asks, curiously.  

“Said she’s FaceTiming with her girlfriend but will join us in a little bit when she’s done,” you answer. “But it’s good because it gives us time to catch up! You can’t keep me waiting like this and don’t even think you’re getting away with not telling me everything.”

“Everything?” she asks, raising an eyebrow. 

“Okay, maybe not… everything,” you reply with a chuckle. “But enough is enough! Spill, bitch. What the hell happened between you and Hangman on that carrier?!”

She sighs, “I-, I have no fucking idea.” Taking a drink from her coffee mug, she leans back, cradling the hot cup of coffee in her hands as she racks her brain for any kind of explanation. “Maybe it was the high of the mission… or something… but we were both looking for you… and then we ran into each other. And… I don’t know. I was going to take a shower and he wouldn’t move out of my way… and then one thing led to another and suddenly we’re fucking in on the bathroom sink!”

“Oh my god!” you squeal, covering your mouth with your hand as you do. 

“I mean… it’s Hangman. I-, I think it was just a heat of the moment thing. Nothing serious,” she says, brushing it off as if there’s no possible way it could be anything more than that. 

“So… just a one time thing?” you ask, eyeing her curiously. You’re trying your best to get a read on her, but you’re not sure if she even knows how she feels about it. 

“Well. Technically a two time thing if you count the shower after,” she smirks, taking another sip of her coffee. 

“Natasha!” you gasp, a devilish smile on her face. 

“So… do you think it’s going to happen again? Do you want it to happen again?” you gush, excitedly. 

“I-,” she starts, before letting out a big sigh. “I don’t know.” You watch as she places her coffee mug down on the table, her eyes fixed to the ceramic mug. “Does that make sense?”

“Definitely,” you empathize with her, considering you’d probably find yourself confused in that situation too. “It’s Jake. I-. Definitely.”

“Let’s go dancing tonight,” she changes the subject, not wanting to talk more about Hagman. “What was that place we went to last time we’re in San Diego? Tango Del Rey? I know Rooster’s dying to see how you move.”

“Oh my god,” you groan with a playful eye roll. 

“But yes!” you agree. “Dancing sounds great. See if the rest of the Dagger Squad want to come with. Maybe end the night at the Hard Deck?” 

“Yeah,” Natasha replies. 

“Hi! Sorry I’m late,” Callie interrupts, as soon as she enters the diner in search of both you and Nat. “Unlike the two of you, I have a civilian partner that doesn’t understand half of what we do, and just needs to hear that I’m okay at the end of every mission. 

“The two of us?” Nat asks, thrown by what Halo has said. 

“Yeah, because you and Hangman are together, right?” she asks Phoenix, and you almost spit out your coffee. 

There’s such a genuine innocence in how she asks the question that you know she’s not trying to fuck with either of you. 

Nat’s face blushes a few shades darker while you try your best to get your coffee down without any of it coming out of your nose. You wait for your fit of laughter to pass before swallowing, giving you the freedom to now laugh out loud. 

“What? Did I say something wrong?” Halo asks looking from you to Nat, then back to you again. 

“No, Halo. No, you said everything right,” you manage to get out, as your laughter continues to grow. 

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to assume. I just thought you guys were together. I mean… he stayed with you overnight in the hospital after the bird strike and he’s so clearly into you,” she apologizes, explaining why she had come to the conclusion in the first place. 

Nat is glaring at you as you continue to laugh, like she hates the fact that you’re not the only one who sees this thing between the two of them. 

“Callie, you have nothing to apologize for,” you reassure her. You shoot Nat a glance, knowing that you’re stirring the pot as you continue with, “And you’d only have been wrong if you’d said something twenty four hours ago.”

“Whiskey!” Phoenix exclaims, shooting daggers at you for airing her dirty laundry. 

You snicker, on a power trip from the sweet, sweet feeling of being right. 

Natasha shakes her head, eager to change the subject. She stops paying attention to you, putting all of her attention on Halo as she says:

“Hey, Callie. What do you think about going dancing tonight? Think the Dagger Squad would be up for it?” she proposes, signifying that she’s done with this conversation about her and Jake. 

“I love dancing! Sounds like a great way to celebrate,” Callie agrees, eagerly. 

As the waitress comes back around, the three of you order stacks of pancakes and plates of eggs, potatoes, and bacon, decompressing in the beachside diner. It’s nice to take a breath, now that the mission is over – now that you have a whole week off, due to the mission being moved up. It’s not till the end of breakfast that you realize your heart and your belly are both now full. 

Your phone buzzes, signaling that you have a new text, unable to hide the smile on your face as you realize it’s from Rooster. 

“Uh oh. I know that look,” Nat teases, instantly knowing who it’s from. Halo’s eyes light up, catching on as well. 

“Ask him if he wants to go dancing!” Halo encourages, as you open up your phone to read the texts. 

Rooster: Looks like we got the greenlight. 

You: For all activities? ;)

Bradley: Yes ma’am. Anything in particular you have in mind?

You: How does dancing sound?

Bradley: … Dancing?

And that’s how Rooster Bradshaw ends up here, spinning someone’s abuela in a circle as the salsa band plays on. While most of the other aviators have found a dance partner in each other, or another attendee at the club, Bradley has, of course, found himself taken under the wings a group of older ladies made up of abuelas and tias who are teaching him how to salsa properly. 

You giggle, unable to take your eyes off of him, even though you’re technically dancing with Jake. You find it incredibly endearing that he’s managed to find himself adopted by the regulars – all of which continue to make comments like que guapo about him, his mustache and his printed shirts. 

Rooster’s eyes meet yours from across the room, practically beaming in your direction as the ladies cheer him on for mastering the three step dance. You smile back, grinning ear to ear. 

You cannot wait to get him alone tonight, but salsa is a social dance, so the stolen glances, the smiles from across the room, and all the sexy build up will have to do for now. 

Jake picks up on the fact that your attention is elsewhere, and he wouldn’t be himself if he didn’t have something smart to say about it. 

“You’re not even paying attention to me,” Jake complains, twirling you around the dance floor as best as he can. 

“Awwww… who knew you were such a softie, Hangman?” you tease him, followed by a loud “ow!” when Jake steps on your feet… again. 

“Well, that’s what you get, kid,” he fires back, grumpily.  

“I’m trying to help you here, Seresin! But you’re not letting me,” you point out, an annoyed tone in your voice as you try to teach him the steps. “If you’d learn to follow for once, damn it!”

“I’m just saying… think these guys need to come down to Texas… we can show ‘em how it’s really done,” Jake grumbles, as you try to coach him into being better at this. 

“Hate to break it to you, bud, but two steppin’ isn’t nearly as sexy as salsa,” you point out. “And you can’t always just do things you’re good at, y’know?”

“Who says?” Jake asks, playfully. 

“Oh my god,” you groan, rolling your eyes at your best friend’s comment. 

Jake steals a glance in Nat’s direction. He knows you’re only trying to help – only trying to give him a little bit of a head start considering Natasha seems to be a pro at this. You know enough to get by, but Nat grew up competitive ballroom dancing, and she’s practically dancing circles around every single person in the dancehall. Turns out, Coyote is an incredible salsa dancer as well, the two of them taking the dance floor by storm like they’re a part of the competition team. They glide, spin, and shake their hips to the music in ways that you can’t even imagine, captivating anyone and everyone that watches. 

At the end of each song, Coyote and Phoenix have switched partners, sometimes dancing together for a few more songs, and other times sharing their gifts with other people here on the dance floor. It’s usually how it goes at these kinds of things. 

The song ends and Jake releases you. You can see that the band has finished their set, switching over to a DJ. Of course, in a place like this, the transitions are smooth, going right from the band to the stereo system seamlessly. You’re practically shoving Jake in Nat’s direction, partnering up with Fanboy before Jake can chicken out. He stands behind her, watching her thank her last dance partner, a man who seems to be on the competition team here at Tango Del Rey. 

Natasha Trace wears a white floral dress, with a long slit up the front, exposing her long legs – the ones he had his mouth on just yesterday. Her hair, softly curled, falls just above her shoulders, and her hair is parted, pinned back on only one side makes her look like an old Hollywood movie star. 

“Phoenix. What do you say we have that dance now?” Jake drawls, his voice causing her to turn around. 

“I should warn you,” she parrots, mimicking his language on the carrier as she takes a few steps forward in her heels. “I'm an incredible dancer.”

“I’ve noticed,” he replies, the corner of his lips curling into a crooked smile. 

“You think you’re ready for me, Bagman?” she challenges, holding her hand out to him. 

“Only one way to find out,” he smirks, grabbing her hand and pulling her in close. 

As the song begins, the DJ set starting off strong with a Bad Bunny hit, Nat finds herself surprised that Jake does pretty well for himself, leading her in the three step salsa. The way his hands feel against her feel like they’re burning her skin in the most delicious of ways. She feels him lift their conjoined hands so that he can spin her around, smiling as he does. She knows this one – listens to the lyrics as they move together, taking note of how appropriate the feel:

“It's just for a little while / Mami, don't get used to it / Because love can be so beautiful / But there's always somеthing that interrupts it.”

Because what the hell were they doing anyways? And how could Hangman of all people make her feel this way? And there was no possible way that this wasn’t just temporary. Was she even willing to take the risk on him?

Instead of saying something, overthinking it, fucking this up before it could even begin, Nat decides that tonight, she’ll just dance with him. 

Across the room, as the song ends, you thank Fanboy (also an incredible dancer), before going to find Bradley. You can’t hide the grin on your face as you see him thanking the ladies that seem to have taken him under their wing. 

“Ladies, I hope you don’t mind,” you begin, nodding towards Bradley.  

“Are you the girlfriend? La novia? He’s been talking about you all night,” one of the women exclaims, gleefully. 

“Not yet, Daniela. But I’m working on it,” Bradley replies, following his words up with a playful, ‘shhh!’ 

You giggle, “You wanna dance, Bradshaw?” 

You offer out your hand, and he takes it, earning cheers and smiles from Bradley’s new friends. You can’t take your eyes off of his chocolate brown ones as you lead him across the dance floor. You feel one of Bradley’s hands slide against your low back, pulling you in closer to him as you begin to move to the music. 

“Looks like you made some new friends,” you say, batting your eyes at him. 

“And you’re gonna thank me later because I learned a lot,” he replies, earning a flirtatious giggle from you. 

“This your thing? You make new friends everywhere you go?” you continue to banter with him. 

“Guilty,” he admits, a light blush running across his cheeks. “The supermarket. The gas station…” 

“Oh God, I bet you were popular in high school too,” you groan, jokingly.  

As he spins you around, taking you into his arms, you’re all smiles. You move your hips in perfect time with his. You can feel your heart pounding in your chest with every step – and it’s not the few beers you’ve already had. You’ve been waiting for this moment all night – not that dancing with the rest of the aviators hasn’t been fun – but you have to admit that Bradley Bradshaw makes your heart flutter. 

After a few songs spent in Bradley’s arms, he slows you down, leaning close, his lips just grazing the top of your ear lobe. You can feel both of his large hands on the small of your back, pulling you into him a little closer. 

“I know we just got started here but… what do you say we get out of here?” he whispers in your ear, the raspiness of his voice sending chills down your spine.

“What’d you have in mind?” you ask, unable to find the smile that spreads across your lips. 

“Maybe… one more drink at the Hard Deck… then how about we go back to my room?”

“Please,” you practically beg him, nodding along as encouragement. . 

And in that moment, you don’t care that everyone is watching, that you and Bradley have yet to begin, you kiss him right then and there in the middle of the dance floor. Your passionate lip lock earns a few looks from other dancers, and you can hear a few of the other aviators point it out with a few whoops, hollers, and catcalls in response. As you pull away from the kiss, his face still cradled in your hands, you ask him:

“Cool if I go find Jake and Nat? Say goodbye?”

“Totally. But I’d be careful if I were you. They were practically fucking on the dance floor a minute ago,” he replies with a groan. 

“Gross,” you scoff, even though you could care less. 

But you don’t find Jake with Nat, spotting her on the dance floor doing all kinds of tricks with Coyote again. You wonder where Jake went, pushing through a crowd of people before you spot him upstairs. You hurry up the flight of stairs that leads to the balcony, finding him perched there, leaning up against the railing and nursing a Lonestar. 

“Hey! Rooster said you and Nat were practically fucking on the dance floor. Anything I should know?” you comment, as you approach the blonde. 

He smirks, taking another drink of his tallboy. 

“So you and Rooster, huh?” Jake asks back so that he doesn’t have to answer your question.

And because, of course his best friend would fall for fuckin’ Bradshaw. 

“Yeah, me and Rooster,” you answer, truthfully, sliding into the space next to him. “We’re actually going to head out. That’s why I was looking for you. Didn’t want to go without saying goodbye.”

Jake searches your face. There’s nothing but genuine admiration and honesty, and it’s given you a glow. He can see how happy you are, and he’s not going to rain on your parade just because he and the guy have some kind of unspoken rivalry. Playfully, he bumps his shoulder against you, earning a giggle from you. You return the shoulder bump before returning to your previous question. 

You watch Jake, following his gaze out over the dancehall. Nat’s finally taken a break, crowded around the bar as Bob tells some wild story to her, Fanboy, and Payback. It’s so freaking obvious that it’s painful: he can’t take his eyes off of Natasha Trace. 

“You should tell her how you feel,” you chime in, bumping his shoulder with yours again 

Jake shoots you a glance from the side – the kind that says, ‘what the hell are you talking about?’

“You forget that I’ve known you since you were twenty, Seresin. And I've spent the last two weeks watching you pine after her,” you point out. 

“I do not pine!” he protests. 

“Yes you do!” you push back. 

He waits a few beats, thinking it over, weighing his options. 

“What if… she’s not into it?” he finally asks, dragging out each word like they’re heavy on his lips. 

“Why don’t you go find out?” you encourage. You give his shoulder a friendly squeeze before turning to go. 

“Be safe, kid!” Jake calls after you. 

“Thanks, Dad,” you scowl, your feet hitting the top of the stairs as you do. 

Jake enjoys the view and his beer on the balcony for a little longer, taking a few moments to himself. The DJ set is about halfway through, and he notices that the aviators, previously crowded around the bar, seem to have returned to the dance floor. 

It’s now or never, Seresin, he thinks to himself. 

He’s practically working himself up as his feet carry himself down the stairs and back onto the dance floor. He’s surprised to find Phoenix without a partner, just moving to the music as the song playing ends. He watches as her face changes, her lips curling into a smile as the new song begins. She throws her head back with a laugh, her eyes settling on Jake as he stands there in front of her. 

“This one’s not a salsa. Think you can keep up, Bagman?” she asks, holding her hand out, beckoning for him to join her. 

“Can’t be that difficult,” he says, looking around the room. 

“It won’t be. As long as you let me lead,” she fires back. 

“Ha!” he lets out an arrogant laugh, as he takes her hand. 

“You let me lead, and I’ll make you look really good,” she replies, almost as if it’s a challenge. 

“Deal,” Jake agrees. 

“So it’s kinda like salsa: three steps left, then three right,” she coaches him, lowering her voice so that she’s practically purring in his ear. Nat wraps an arm around his waist, pulling him close into her. The edges of their faces are pressed together, and Jake mimicks her, sliding an arm around her waist too.

“Only bachata…” she says, beginning to walk in a circle. She steps forward, so that they’re practically chest to chest, keeping the rhythm with her feet as she adjusts their positioning. “... is danced from here.”

Jake gulps, realizing that she’s practically straddling one of his legs, her forehead now pressed against his. He lets her lead, watching as she moves around him from this fucking close: a sway of her hips in perfect time, a circle with her shoulders till she’s body rolling against the front of him, and then they’re taking three steps right, and three steps left. 

“Jeez, Tash…” he groans, earning a wicked smile from her. 

He’s not sure where that came from. He’s never called her that before. But then again, they’d never let the tension between them go this far. 

There’s no way this is actually the dance. She’s totally fucking with me. Testing my patience, right? Jake thinks to himself, feeling his pants becoming a little bit tighter as she moves against him. 

But Jake looks around the room, shocked to see everyone on the dance floor moving this sensually too. Hell, she’s practically riding his thigh in front of everyone and he’s just letting her. 

“The hell’d you learn how to dance like this?” he asks, biting back a moan. 

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” she smirks cockily. 

She holds up an arm for him to spin, creating distance so they both can. When she returns to Jake, this time, she presses her back against him, swaying her hips against his in perfect time. 

It’s pure fucking torture. 

“I-, I would,” he mumbles into her ear, ever sarcastic bone in his body giving way to the growing erection he’s got in his pants. 

She chuckles, spinning herself out, then back into his arms in their original position. 

“That’s not the question you should be asking, Bagman,” she says, glancing down at his zipper. 

He’s trying his best to focus on the steps – and not stepping on her feet – but his concentration is getting incredibly blurry with how she’s moving against him. With how close she is. With how fucking hot he finds this. As they move, three steps right, three steps left, his hands begin traveling lower, pressing her against him from her low back, from the top of her ass, and Natasha Trace knows exactly what she’s doing. 

“Fuck,” Jake groans, feeling as she rolls against him, the song beginning to end. He’s frozen in a moment in time and he can’t let go of her – not yet. 

“Can I take you home?” he finally asks. 

“I thought you’d never ask,” she replies, dragging her arm across his chest as she begins to walk in a circle behind him. Once she reaches his back, she pulls him in close, leaning in to whisper:

“Meet me in the car in five.”

read: chapter six

*

a/n: someone has to say it. halo is the hero of this chapter with her line: you and hangman are together right? now who's ready for some rooster smut!?

taglist: @not-two-shrimp @wishfulwithwine @hangmanscoming @thefourrealms@hlkwrites @dlea203 @translatemunson @starlightstories @genius2050

[eddysocs]

Introducing: Risa Marchetti

Fandom: Doctor Who

Face Claim: Monica Barbaro

Full Name: Risa Antonietta Marchetti

Age: 29

Myers Briggs Type: ISTP

Love Interest: Kate Lethbridge Stewart

Occupation: Senior U.N.I.T. Field Agent

Collections: Vintage Sci-Fi Novels

Style/Clothing: When off-duty, she prefers fitted jeans, stylish boots, and t-shirts or tank tops, occasionally paired with a leather jacket. Risa always wears a vintage wristwatch given to her by her grandfather.

Signature Quote: "Time is our greatest ally and our most formidable foe. Let’s make sure it stays on our side."

Plot Summary: Risa Marchetti is one of U.N.I.T.'s best and brightest, and quickly rose up the ranks to become Kate Stewart's right hand woman. Tasked with leading a team to investigate something causing minor reality shifts, Risa finds something much more troubling than she was expecting. She calls Kate for backup, and when she arrives, the two make hesitant steps toward the device and get sucked into an alternate timeline. Trapped on a dangerous, alternate version of earth, the two must work together to destabilize the alternative timeline and get back home.

Forever Tag: @baubeautyandthegeek, @kmc1989, @curious-kittens-ocs, @fanficanatic-tw, @gcthvile

[topgun-imagines]

But The Dress Looks Better On You

Requested: no

Summary: You are finally able to enjoy a night out with your girlfriend. It’s only a bonus that the dress looks amazing on her. 18+

Word count: 1.8k

Warnings: smut toward the end.

Note: inspired by Monica Barbaro’s dress at the Oscar’s.

Pairings: Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace x fem!reader

You hated parties. They just weren’t your scene. Ever since you were younger you had wanted nothing more than to stay out of the limelight, and going to crazy house parties didn’t seem like the way to do that. However, now that you were dating a navy lieutenant, fancy gatherings seemed to become almost a regular occurrence. You had to admit that the only thing that made these events better, was the fact that you got to attend them with Phoenix.

Natasha had been upstairs getting ready for the past 30 minutes. After you had finished your shower, she had promptly kicked you out of the bathroom, claiming that the two of you would never make it in time. Now you were sitting on the couch in the fancy dress that your girlfriend had picked for you while you stared at the clock. There was still an hour and a half before you had to be there. The sound of light music floating through the air distracted you from the steady ticking of the clock.

The thing that you were most looking forward to this evening was seeing Natasha's dress. She had purchased it a week ago, and still refused to let you see it until tonight. A thousand images were racing around your mind as you tried to picture what her dress would look like. She had worn some beautiful dresses in the past, but you had a feeling that this one would supersede all the others. Butterflies were swarming your stomach as the thought of Phoenix all dolled up filled your mind.

You two had been together for almost two years now, only finally making the decision to move in together a few months ago. In the beginning, you were hesitant to go with Phoenix to these special events. It’s not that you didn’t want to, you just were somewhat scared to meet her friends. No matter how much she assured you that they would be extremely accepting of the both of you, you couldn’t help the sliver of doubt that grew in the back of your mind. Your friends hadn’t been the most accepting people when you finally grew the courage to introduce them to Phoenix. Ever since then, you had been worried that her friends would react the same way.

But when you finally did meet her friends, you were blown away by their kindness. The group had welcomed you with open arms, each of them taking time to let you know just how happy you made Phoenix. Apparently they hadn’t seen their friend that happy in years. Bob had even pulled you aside toward the end of the night and gave you the classic speech. While everyone in the group welcomed you, they made sure that you understood what would happen if you hurt Phoenix.

You could hear the bathroom fan shut off upstairs. Instantly, the butterflies fluttered around your stomach. You waited with bated breath as her footsteps moved toward your shared bedroom. After a few minutes the soft padding of her feet turned into the sharp clicking of her heels. And then you could hear her making her way down the stairs slowly. You stood from the couch and smoothed your dress out. One last time you tried to picture what her dress would look like. But when she finally rounded the corner, it was nothing like you thought it would be.

The breath was quickly knocked out of your lungs at the sight of your beautiful girlfriend in her dress. It fit her wonderfully. The dress was two different colors, a soft light blue in the center with a darker burgundy on each of the edges. It flowed so effortlessly off her body. You traced over the lines of her dress and the curves of her hips as your mouth dropped open in awe. A few of the details that you noticed right away were the bow tie high on her waist and the fact that the blue fabric was slightly see-through. Your eyes drifted up to her face. Her hair was pulled back into a sleek high bun. There was a sheepish smile on her face as she stared at you, waiting for your response.

“Wow,” You whispered breathlessly. Stepping closer to her, your eyes continued to take in the beauty that was your girlfriend. “You look gorgeous.” You watched the blush rise on her cheeks. She smiled at you as you did a small twirl.

Once she was facing you again it was her turn to eye you up and down. Your dress was simple. It was long, so long that it brushed against the floor with every step you took. A large assortment of sparkles covered the fabric, shimmering brightly when you moved. “Thank you,” she murmured and rested her hands on your hips. The next thing you felt was the soft brush of her lips against yours as she kissed you softly. You rested your palm on her cheek as you deepened the kiss. Her tongue brushed against your bottom lip before she pulled away slowly. “You look beautiful, too.” She whispered against your lips.

You smiled gently when she pulled away. Her hand slowly ran up and down your sides before she grabbed your hands. As she brought one up to her lips and pressed a lingering kiss to it, her eyes stared deeply into yours. She pulled back and flashed you a familiar smile. “You ready to go?” You nodded softly, following behind her as she pulled you toward the car.

The rest of the night passed in a blur. Once you arrived at the venue, you and Natasha mingled for a little while before joining the rest of the Dagger Squad. After many glasses of champagne and a night full of conversation, you and Phoenix finally called it a night around 11:30. Bob offered to drive the two of you home, seeing as he had decided to be the designated driver for the night. The two of you stumbled into your home twenty minutes later.

Together, the two of you made your way upstairs. You grabbed Phoenix's hand as you led her down the hallway. Staring back at her, you offered her a smile that she had seen a thousand times before. That was the smile that you usually gave her right before heading to the bedroom. However, instead of leading her toward the bedroom, you pulled her into the bathroom. Much to her shock you quickly spun on your heel and placed your hands on her hips. Before she could even realize what was happening you had blistered her up onto the countertop. You giggled loudly, and quite drunkenly, at her stunned expression.

Your girlfriend moved her hands up to cup the sides of your face. She kissed you sweetly, both of you smiling into the kiss. When you pulled away, her eyes were dancing between your eyes and your lips. In a split-second decision, she kissed you passionately one last time. Smiling at her, you grabbed the makeup wipes from the drawer and began to carefully and gently wipe down her face. Once all the makeup residue was off, she kissed the inside of your wrists and grabbed the package. She began to wipe over your face, being extra careful around your eyes and mouth.

After a few minutes, both of your faces were make-up-free. Natasha pressed her lips against your forehead before she hopped down to the counter. Now it was her turn to lead you to the bedroom. Once there she turned to you and began to help you out of your dress. Once you were undressed, she couldn’t help but let her eyes roam over your exposed skin. You instantly grew shy, hands moving to cover yourself. She tutted quietly, pulling your hands away from where they were covering your chest.

You watched with bated breath as she lowered her head until it was level with your chest. Her eyes bore deeply into yours as she moved forward. A quiet moan fell from your parted lips when Phoenix wrapped her lips around your soft nipple. Your eyes closed as your head tipped back, soft whines and whimpers tumbling steadily from your mouth. You looked down at her when you felt her pull away. The damp feeling between your legs grew ten times when you saw the thin string of saliva connecting her tongue and your hardened nub.

She straightened up to look at you, grinning as she dipped her hand between your thighs. The feeling of her fingers dancing between your legs made you want to let out a loud cry. A few seconds later she pulled back and smirked at your flustered state. She pressed her lips to yours quickly, slipping her tongue into your mouth seconds later.

Once she pulled back, your hands immediately darted to her dress, urging her to slip the delicate fabric off. She allowed you to slip the straps off of her shoulders, exposing her beautiful tanned skin. The further the dress fell down her body, the more enthralled you became. A gentle smile overcame her face as she watched your eyes dance across her body. One of her hands came up to cup your cheek as she tilted your chin up so that you were facing her. Her plump lips settled onto yours gently as she moved you back toward the bed.

The two of you collapsed onto it, breaking the kiss seconds later. You both giggled quietly. With your foreheads pressed together, Phoenix rolled on top of you with a large smile. “I love you,” You whispered quietly. You leaned up to kiss her gently, lips moving steadily against each other. This time it was you who slipped your tongue into her mouth. One last kiss was shared before you pulled back. “So much.”

Her hand ran up and down your side. Your breath hitched when her fingers began dancing across your lower abdomen. Her words were soft and her breath fanned across your face as she spoke. “I love you too.” The next thing you felt was her hand slipping between your thighs once more. She offered you a devious smile as she began shimmying her way down your body. You cried out when you felt her tongue brush through your folds. Natasha grabbed one of your hands, bringing it down so that your fingers were tangled in her hair. She groaned when you tugged harshly, the sound vibrating against your sensitive cunt. You cried out when her lips wrapped around your clit. One thing was for sure, you wouldn’t be forgetting this night any time soon. Maybe parties weren’t so bad after all.

A/n: Thank you all for reading! This is my first time writing for Phoenix. Please feel free to send in any feedback. Requests are open.

[missathlete31]

Okay side note from the Twisters Excitement-

Reading this book and I can so see Glen Powell as Hugh and Monica Barbaro as Kate (even if they don't exactly fit the character description- the personalities are perfect!)! Bonus of Lewis Pullman as Cameron.

Somebody make this happen PLEASE!!!! (Before I start thinking about writing this into the Top Gun Universe and then give up like always)

[somuchyoudontknow]

Sophia - I think you really have a gift.

And for some odd reason, I think you were the one person who has mentioned you also thought this - but I think this whole thing may last until or around the time the new SMA is announced.

The reason I think this is bc around the same time CE was announced as SMA, this is when the rumors really really escalated - past pumpkins, he goes and comments on one of her photos - not really a comment, but ya know. He was doing his best to fake GAF.

Then the next day Reuters Published his article and listed him as “single” which sent fans into stealth mode bc all the AB stuff was still happening.

It was then I was suddenly reminded of MBJ, and how he was also listed as single during his Reuters SMA announcement. A month or so later, the rumors of him and Lori Harvey began. By the time January 2021 rolled around, MBJ and Lori were IG official.

I remember thinking, wow that was fast. It was almost like - the sexiest man alive can never be single - and if he is single, he has to be “taken” almost right after - to show that he is hot commodity. I don’t know why I had this thought - but then I forgot about it and moved on.

When CE’s SMA happened, I had the same thought pop up. I had this overwhelming feeling that he was going to pop up with AB after this announcement. Only bc of all the SM activity and how the rumors escalated after she reactivated on SM. It felt way too strategic - like he suddenly starts liking her posts - all of them, when he more or less was ignoring her for a good few months. I know likes on SM aren’t always consistent. But after he liked her mrs Paris photo back in July, pretty sure a few months went by and he sort of just minds his own business and ignores her on SM. But the moment she reactivated in October - he starts liking all of her posts, each time. Then the pumpkin photo, then the comment, then BOOM - announcement. It felt too “sudden” ramp up - and just more like it was being planned to execute that way, leading up to the “big reveal.”

I also have this theory that him going public with her probably wasn’t supposed to happen so close to the SMA drop, but her show premiered that same week - so they just went public to speed things up and get the max PR push.

Again - all of this is tinhat theory.

I don’t think he did all this to get SMA. I think SMA was just to give him a boost in the same year he was also getting press for two movies after not having any film releases due to Covid for about 2 years. But I DO think this “relationship” with AB has to do with SMA, and I think it’s meant to make him look like a committed, can settle down type - instead of the ever long bachelor who can’t hold down a long term relationship.

I also wonder if Monica Barbaro, one actress he also followed, was at one point on the list for him to be paired up with. She had a pretty big year due to top gun maverick. He followed a bunch of these up and coming women - all:most whom had some type of show, film, or movie release in the last two years. Kaitlyn Dever had dopesick, Alisha wainwright had raising dion, Lily James had Pam and Tommy, Monica - top gun, and etc.

I just think they ended up with AB bc she was the one with a show that was likely on the cutting block - and she’s the one actress IMO - that can’t sell anything on her own. No talent, won’t promote on her socials, no charisma, no “IT” factor. But she is the star of a Netflix original so the additional boost of setting her up with a more famous man actually worked out for her. She may have also been the one actress who was willing to “sell out” to sell out, if that makes any sense. I don’t want to discredit other women who do these things for PR, but the other actresses mentioned all seemed to be happier doing their own promo and moving up the career ladder not being the “accessory” to someone more famous.

This may be too farfetched but I’ve thought this for a while. Just another opinion.

Hi :) thanks. Yes, I was the first one I guess. I made the prediction in January this year. I got a clear msg of two years and if we count from Nov 2021, it makes Nov 2023, exactly two years. Also, I made a few theories in Jan, Feb that it might last till the next SMA gets announced. I also compared how MBJ and Lori's timelines matched with Chris and Alba's.

Your theory is great, it's not far-fetched at all. I think SMA was part of the deal but not the main thing. Also, there have been info that SMA is not usually given to single men. He was given when he entered a pr rs. I think the went with the two-year timeline so Chris doesn't look like a player because of the age gap. I also feel the reason they are pushing the engagement and wedding rumors is to make him not look like Leo who only dates mid-twenties girls and then dumps them. They want his family guy image to not get ruined and that he wasn't just non-serious but he really wanted to settle down.

[autumntouched]

Day 11 of Ode to Phoenix

Inspired by Glen's tweet about Monica

"Monica Barbaro, who's representing female aviators everywhere in Top Gun: Maverick, gave my niece her own "Phoenix" Barbie on premiere day signed "keep your beautiful fire burning bright." The impact of "Phoenix" on young women is going to be incredible to watch"

Yes indeed, Glen, yes indeed

Summary: Natasha meets Hangman's family at an open house for the base

Pairings: Single Natasha "Phoenix" Trace

A/N: What do you do when need a little more time for your future Ode to Phoenix posts? Turn to a little real life inspo, apparently. No edits just straight from my brain to the page.

Open House

“Are you sure you’re not in for Six Flags?” Mash, one of the aviators from her squad, asks. Normally Natasha would be one of the first ones onboard for a day at the amusement park, but this Saturday morning she’s already dressed in her flight suit. 

“Uh-uh,” she hums around the bobby pins held between her lips while she puts her hair up.

“C’mon! It’ll be fun, and we’ll have an even number.” 

Natasha slides the last pin into place and checks the back of her bun in the bathroom mirror. “I can’t. I already have plans. Next time.” 

Mash grumbles about having to ride by himself and lets her go. She pours herself a travel mug of coffee and checks her watch. Enough time to make a breakfast sandwich before Payback picks her up. English muffin, eggs, sausage, and cheese with Sriracha. He’s outside five minutes early, and she tosses everything in the sink to clean later before hurrying out to the car. She hands him the sandwich she made for him, knowing he’d only grabbed himself a granola bar for breakfast. 

“Thanks,” he says excitedly. Natasha also passes him a paper towel so he doesn’t stain his uniform while cramming down the sandwich in four bites. She gives him a look of disgust and takes a reasonable bite of her own. 

“I can’t drive and eat,” he says through a mouthful as he pulls off. “Damn, that was good, Phoenix.” 

“Everything’s good with Sriracha,” she swears. 

Fanboy can still smell the sandwiches when he gets in and pouts that he doesn’t get one. “Offer to drive some time,” Natasha teases, “and I’ll cook for you too.” 

They get to the airfield and check-in, sliding their aviators on against the bright day. The skies are clear and the weather’s nice enough that their flight suits are comfortable. A range of aircraft is parked across the tarmac with tents set up in between for food vendors and family activities. Today is the base open house, part of the reason her squad is so eager to be elsewhere so they can avoid the traffic of military and civilian families coming to base. 

But Natasha loves open houses. Getting to see children’s faces light up while they learn about what she does, hearing veterans’ service stories, or talking to families remembering their military loved ones are part of what makes her job meaningful. And there’s no moment more special than when little girls see there’s someone like them at the controls of such powerful machines. 

The three of them take their time strolling toward the F/A-18 Hornet where they’ll be stationed for the day. Most of the time they’re absorbed in their own aircraft so it’s fun to get a chance to explore the others. 

Her jaw nearly drops when she sees who else volunteered for the day. “Hangman! What are you doing here?” she sputters. 

He grins toothily. As usual a toothpick dangles from his mouth. “I imagine the same as you, Phoenix,” he drawls. “Looking pretty for the cameras.” 

She’s even more surprised to see Payback and Hangman go in for a man hug and him bump fists with Fanboy. Since when does he know her friends like that? Hangman and Payback give one another grief over their respective basketball teams and roll their eyes at her love for the Splash Brothers, Steph Curry and Klay Thompson. It is not just because they're hot or because Riley Curry gives stellar post game interviews, and it's not bandwagoning when you're from the Bay.

It’s not long before they have to break off their conversation to show visitors around the aircraft. As usual, the children get excited when they see aviators who look like them. Natasha can see them tug their parents over, pointing insistently. Along with Payback, Fanboy, and Hangman, she gladly crouches and gives high fives for pictures with the kids or joins in for family photos. A little girl is so excited to see Natasha that she flings herself around her thighs for a hug. 

They meet a Korean War aviator and his family and two real life Rosie the Riveters who have been friends since their days building WWII planes together. 

Natasha’s waving goodbye to a commander’s family when she hears high pitched voices squeal, “Uncle Jake! Uncle Jake!” 

Three children come running full speed at Hangman. The oldest, probably no more than seven, gets to him first and launches herself into his open arms. He picks her up and hugs her tightly while she wraps her legs around him like a koala. The two boys go for his waist and leg so that he looks like a climbing tree of children. 

He greets them boisterously, giving the little girl a big kiss on her forehead and ruffling both boys’ hair. “How are my favorite kiddos?” he asks. They all fight to speak over one another while a blonde woman and an amiable older couple catch up to them. This must be Hangman’s family!

“Is that your plane?” the little girl asks, pointing to the Hornet.

“It’s one like it,” he tells her. “Hey, Pheebs, you want to meet that cool lady I told you about?” 

The little girl nods so hard that Natasha worries she might give herself a concussion. To her shock, Hangman turns toward her. “C’mon I’m going to introduce you to Phoenix.” 

And suddenly, she’s surrounded by his family who greet her as if they’ve known her for years. The older couple are his parents. The blonde woman is his sister and mother of two of the children while the third is one of their cousins. Hangman waves over Payback and Fanboy to introduce them too.

“Phoebe, this is Phoenix. Phoenix, Phoebe.” 

The little girl tucks her hair behind her ear and reaches out to shake Natasha’s hand. She’s wearing a flight suit with a patch that Hangman must have given her. “Do you fly with Uncle Jake?” she asks, leaning her head shyly against her uncle’s.  

“Sometimes,” Natasha smiles. 

Hangman grins at his niece and sets her down. “They can’t put all the best pilots on the same squad, sweetheart.” Has he really told his family that she’s one of the best pilots? “Didn’t you have something you wanted to ask Phoenix when you met her?” 

Phoebe’s face lights up, and she turns to her mother. “Mommy, can I have it please?” 

Noel, his sister, reaches into the large tote on her shoulder and pulls out a small helmet. She hands it to Phoebe who presents it solemnly to Natasha. “Could you sign the helmet Uncle Jake got for me please?” 

Natasha’s still trying to catch up to this new side of Hangman who beams at his family and has a cool uncle fan club. “Of course, I’d be honored,” she promises. “I don’t have a pen though so–.”

His sister is prepared and hands her a sharpie. Natasha takes it gratefully and considers what to write. She glances at Hangman who’s watching her with a strange gleam in his eyes. Trying to figure out what’s going through his head almost distracts her from what she’s supposed to be doing.

Natasha uncaps the pen with Hangman’s help and writes as neatly as she can, Phoebe, Keep your beautiful fire burning bright. With Admiration, Phoenix.” 

Phoebe’s mouth drops open and the helmet nearly tumbles from her hands when Natasha returns it. The Seresins gasp excitedly at the message. “Can you read what that says, sweetie?” Noel prompts her daughter. 

Phoebe reads, following her finger along the words. Hangman gently adjusts it so she doesn’t smear the still drying ink. “Phoebe. Keep your be…”

“Beautiful,” Noel supplies. 

Phoebe nods. “Keep your beautiful fire bur…”

Hangman helps her out. “Keep your beautiful fire burning bright. With Admiration, Phoenix. How’s that, skittle? What do you say?” 

“So cool,” Phoebe says in awe. She looks up at Natasha, even more in awe. Natasha feels her heart bursting at how adorable and sweet Phoebe is. “Thank you, Phoenix.” Welp, there go her ovaries too. 

“You’re welcome. Want to see what we have to do before we take off?” 

“Gotta put my helmet on first,” Phoebe says, wiggling the gear onto her head. “Okay!” And without prompting, she slips her hand into Natasha’s. “Let’s go!” 

His nephews, Connor and Declan, tag along at her side.

And the soaring feeling Natasha gets as they circle the jet together is the same one she had her first time behind the controls. Sharing her love of flying with them reminds her why she does this.

Hangman's family insists on pictures with all of them and adorable one of her and Phoebe that Natasha is too shy to admit she might frame.

He's just as shy when he thanks her for being so gracious to them after they've left.

"So you think I'm the best, huh?" she asks.

He bumps her shoulder. "Don't let it go to head. I was trying to inspire children here."

Natasha waves another family over. "Too late. I'm going to take every chance to remind you that you said that about me."

Hangman doesn't look at all put out by the threat.

Ode to Phoenix Masterlist

[goddesspharo]

for the au headcanon game: not sure what the au is, but one inspired by the glen powell in a camel coat drinking dark liquor post. alternatively, mob au!

If you take the last few pictures in this set (especially the solo Monica Barbaro ones near the end where she looks like goddamn Indiana Jones), merge it with pensive day drinker in a camel coat Glen Powell, you get a Tomb Raider movie that's actually good! Or at the very least, they team up to steal the Magna Carta. Or, in the best of all worlds, whatever the hot archaeologist version of Entrapment without the depressing age gap is. Endless sexy training montages in a Scottish cottage to prepare for a caper in which they both plan to screw each other over until feelings get in the way! There's history between them (of course there is) and between the FBI agent chasing after them (of course there is) and, for all his posturing, Hangman trips the system during a test run job and they're trapped in a museum for too many hours, Phoenix stone-faced while he tries to meet some sort of imaginary quota on making Night at the Museum jokes as Bob tries to figure out how to remotely hack into the Smithsonian at 2am from home.

[coraphoenix]

ik everybody was like "oml simping for rooster/bob/hangman/coyote/insert man here" but like... can we give big ups to monica barbaro for clearly playing someone who is definitely different to herself in very key ways, most noticeably in physicality? the way phoenix walks and sits and holds herself feels very specific to phoenix/natasha trace, and that is so cool! of! her!

(also apparently she was a badass in the backseat and never got too nauseous, which, also cool)

YES! YES! YES! Anon, I hope you're ready for me to ramble a bit. I first watched TGM in early June, and Phoenix was one of the first characters that stayed with me after I had left the cinema. I wasn't sure what it was at first, but as someone in the writing industry, I took that as my excuse to go back and rewatch the movie and analyze it. That's another path I won't go down for now.

But Phoenix as a character, from my perspective as an audience member, was great! When I first began to really think on why I liked her, I realized that she wasn't annoying. "What do you mean by that, Raven?" you ask. Well, a lot of films and TV series try so hard to be "empowering" and "feminist" that they often end up doing the exact opposite by absolutely annoying the audience and making the female character way too arrogant and flashy. Phoenix was as much a part of the group as all the others. In that bar scene, which is impeccable from a writing point of view by the way because of how it introduces 7 people in a couple of minutes, the positioning of the characters and their dialogue immediately makes us pick up on certain things subconsciously. For instance, Phoenix walks in with Fanboy and Payback walking ever so slightly behind her. It's a quiet nod to her as the "leader" of their little friend group and also tells us more about Payback and Fanboy. When Hangman baits her within a second of seeing her, she's annoyed yes, but also a little amused, which makes us think, "Oh, she's confident. She's got her shit together even in the face of someone as cocky as Hangman." She's smart and doesn't underestimate Maverick, which Monica speaks about in this interview. Phoenix establishes herself as capable in our minds, and when she tells Rooster, "I'm going on this mission," we're not thinking pfft. Right! Instead, we're accepting it as a very probable outcome because she's shown that she's fit for the mission. Her immediate appraisal of Bob at the bar is another great indicator of her character, going back to her not underestimating anyone. While everyone is amused by his callsign and maybe making fun of him for it a little, she finds a way to include him while also challenging him, almost like she's saying Do you have what it takes? Show me.

Now onto Monica, I will never shut up about what a great job she did with Phoenix! As you said anon, one of the most noticeable things is the physicality. The way Phoenix walks and stands (which @autumntouched has also mentioned) serve to further characterize her and make our minds subconsciously form a certain opinion of her. Again I could talk about this for hours, but I don't want to bore you all. I've watched so many interviews that had me in awe of Monica tbh. All of the cast and some of the people who have worked with them on the film have attested to how well she handled the G's. Glen often mentions how she was practically surpassing them all with the flight stuff and that he had trouble keeping up with her. Honestly, I'm in awe of her even as a ballet dancer because that takes so much effort and practice. So yeah, I'm in absolute awe of Monica, and I can't imagine anyone else better suited for the role of Phoenix. Her dedication to the role and understanding of its impact is so beautiful, and I think that is a big part of why a lot of us love Phoenix. Monica also mentions how Phoenix is a pilot that happens to be female, and that's why she's playing her. There aren't things that set her apart in terms of skills etc. in the film!

Okay, that's it for now!

[mothdruid]

ok I'm a firm believer that Professor Natasha Trace would be that teacher all the students have a crush on yk? Like-- even the annoying guys in the back of the class stop to listen and compliment her outfit or sumn

My gay brain won't shut up about it so I brought evidence, which is, ladies & gents, monica barbaro wearing professor clothes 🧍🏻‍♀️

I rest my case 👩‍⚖️

okay okay, yes

and she teaches a more complex subject, like chemistry or something. maybe chem2 or organic chemistry. everyone always dreads taking those classes but then they see her and they immediately regret complaining about having to take the class

plus she is an actual helpful professor for a difficult subject. she makes sure that everyone understands the subject material. she has longer office hours than normal and des a weekly zoom group for tutoring on subjects that she provides. she has a five stars on rate my professor and everyone loves staring at her during class

and that green shirt in the second pic? she wears that on especially hot day one time. the sleeves are rolled up and the top two buttons are undone because of how hot it is. her glasses are on the top of her head and she just looks so fucking hot. literally no one can focus on the subject matter because they are all focused on how she looks. she has to keep explaining the concepts until she realizes today is pointless and dismisses class early

let's say you're doing one on one studying with her. maybe office hours or something. and holy fuck, you can barely focus on the material. the way she smells, the way she dressed, just everything about her has you distracted. and she realizes that you aren't paying attention and just waves her hand to regain it then says

"what are you so distracted by?"

and it takes everything in you not to just say her

send professor thots

[bradshawsbaby]

I got a Phoenix Headcanon for tonight: with these gifs

i feel like Phoenix was in plays when she was in high school and the biggest role she got was Ophelia in Hamlet. Her mom has the while play on video and showed it to Hangman when they came to visit.

Phoenix assumed Hangman would make fun of her but he was actually impressed with how good she was

Aww, I love this! ☺️

Since Monica Barbaro grew up doing ballet, I actually have a headcanon that Phoenix studied ballet all the way through high school, so it would totally make sense that she was involved in theater, too!

“Oh my gosh, Mom, put that away! No one wants to watch that!”

“Speak for yourself, Minx. I want to watch it!”

Phoenix sits on the couch like 🫣🫣🫣 the whole time, but when the video ends, Hangman just turns and smiles at her.

“You were really good, baby. If this whole Navy thing doesn’t work out, you might have a future in Hollywood.”

“See, Tasha?” Phoenix’s mom cuts in. “What a sweet boy,” she grins, squeezing Jake’s face.

“Mom!”

[alexzalben]

First Look at FUBAR, Netflix's new action comedy series starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, which premieres on May 25:

Quote from Star/Executive Producer Arnold Schwarzenegger:

“Everywhere I go, people ask me when I’m going to do another big action comedy like True Lies. Well, here it is. FUBAR will kick your ass and make you laugh - and not just for two hours. You get a whole season. It’s been a joy to work with Nick, Skydance, and Netflix to give my fans exactly what they’ve been waiting for.”

Quote from Creator, Showrunner & Executive Producer Nick Santora:

“FUBAR is, by far, the most surreal project of my career. I grew up watching Arnold Schwarzenegger films -- I'd hit my dad up for a few bucks so I could race to the movies and see the biggest star in the world on the big screen -- so creating the first scripted television project for Arnold is unbelievably exciting for me. The thing I always marveled at was how Schwarzenegger could be funny while still kicking ass ... that's why I wanted FUBAR to be a hysterical, CIA-spy comedy mixed with heart-stopping action! And it is all that - and more. I'd love to elaborate with more details, but, sorry, it's classified.”

Logline: When a father and daughter learn that they’ve each secretly been working as CIA Operatives for years, they realize their entire relationship has been a lie and they truly don’t know one another at all. Forced to team up as partners, the series tackles universal family dynamics set against a global backdrop of spies, action and humor.

Creator / Showrunner / Executive Producer: Nick Santora

Starring / Executive Producer: Arnold Schwarzenegger

Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Monica Barbaro, Jay Baruchel, Fortune Feimster, Milan Carter, Travis Van Winkle, Gabriel Luna, Andy Buckley, Aparna Brielle, Barbara Eve Harris  and Fabiana Udenio

Studio: Skydance Television 

Episodes: 8 x 60-minute episodes

Teaser trailer here!

[pynkhues]

Okay, as requested by @riosnosestud, my faves off the Golden Globes Red Carpet:

Monica Barbaro looking chic and timeless and like she's having fun invites you in.

The red carpet was a total mess, which is what the Golden Globes deserves, but there were a few winners and a few almosts among the fray. One thing's for sure, floral accents, dipped hems, satin and sparkles were back in a big way.

My faves though were:

Jessica Chastain. Gorgeous from head to toe! Spider web dresses are hard to pull off, but this one really works. The unusual neckline elevates it too beyond the excpected, and I adore the matching mask!

Sheryl Lee Ralph I'm not usually into super high necklines as I think they can really shorten a torso in a way that can make your silhouette top heavy if you're anything over a B-cup, but this colour and detailing is next level. She looks really, really beautiful.

Angela Bassett The dress itself is just fine to me - like it's beautiful and fits her well, but it's a little boring, y'know? Overall though its elevated by flawless hair and make-up, and her choice of accessories. She looks full old Hollywood glamour, as she should!

Okay, they're pretty much it for my best dresseds, but there were a few almosts in there too, so I'll share them as well:

Ayo Edebiri This is soooo close for me, but I hate the trend of dipped hems - I just think they look like you've been walking in puddles. Viola Davis' dress had the same look and just - - yeah, not for me. Th drape of the skirt isn't quite right either, and I think her hair's been done badly. It's limp and lacks volume, which is a real bummer, because the overall look is lovely. I especially love the colour combo of light blues and tan, so the opera gloves are really working for me.

Stephanie Hsu Adoooore the skirt on this one, and I like the idea of the top, but I don't think it quite works? Also I would've preferred the look with an up-do as opposed to a ponytail.

Lauren Miller and Seth Rogan I loveher dress and his suit actually. I love it when men take chances, and this shade of pink and the thick waistband in lieu of a belt really work for him! The black shoes are a big miss for me though - they really jar. A lighter shoe would've really pulled it together.

Viola Davis

Stunning colour and draping, but this dipped hem is almost worse than Ayo's, and I don't like silver accessories with this shade of blue? Doesn't quite work for me.

Rhea Seehorn She looks beautiful, but the patterning of the florals with the full coverage shape feels matronly to me in a way that I think she deserves better than.

Barry Keoghan Love the shade of blue and the tie, but hate the fit of the blazer. It's like a square crop?? Bizarre. Also Kodi Smit-McPhee did it better at the Oscars last year. Loved his performance in The Banshees of Inisherin though!

What were your favourite looks?

[finclgicls]

𝐌𝐔𝐒𝐄 : emily atkins, early thirties, monica barbaro. 𝐏𝐋𝐎𝐓 : inspired by lost—strangers stranded in a strange island. for this plot i'm looking for a dynamic like kate + sawyer, sort of like where there is a spark, there is a fire. they help her with medicine because she's been a lil hurt after the plane crashed. 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐍𝐄𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 : strangers, at first. 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐄 : slice of life, but i'm sure we'll turn it into something else. don't have to have watched lost to reply to this. 𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐍 𝐓𝐎 : m ៸ masc of same age or older. this will be a romantic connection. please, don't like my starters ៸ let me know if you'd like a different muse.

equal parts scared and confused, emily walks around the place they made camp. it was weird finding that they had adjusted to the stranded life, even weirder to think some were losing their hopes already. none of them had come out unscathed from the crash, but some were definitely more optimistic than others. others, however, mainly the one whose tent she was heading towards, managed to scare everyone away with their off-putting personality. now, emily wasn't all shits and giggles, but she was trying her best to not show anyone any part of her that could be linked to her past life, to the fact that she had murdered someone, or even to the reason why she was in that plane, she had been caught. karma seemed to have out for her though, because after having stitched herself up and tried her best to keep it low-key, her wound was infecting, and she needed antibiotics which were in the tent no one dared to approach.

looking around to see whether or not she'd been followed, emily pressed on forward, feeling wobbly on her knees and hot, but she couldn't just collapse, by the time she woke up, chances were people would learn about why she was being escorted back to where she belonged, by a man of the law. but before she could even reach her destination, a twig broke behind her making her whip around, bad call, her hand flew to her stomach and pain coursed through her making her hiss and curse lowly. "heard you had medication in your tent, is it true?" her no-nonsense personality kept her from tiptoeing around the subject, even if it wasn't smart when the other riled her up considerably.

𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐂𝐊 𝐎𝐔𝐓 𝐌𝐘 𝐎𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐄.