#no i get what it’s saying and i approve of the message

[karanseraph]

I think that *is* what some are seeking to do. To define terrorism as any/all violence with any/all political motives but not committed by a state-actor (because then it's like war or police action or genocide or some other more specific thing?)

(And if they are able to make this definition stick then any laws written to deal with actual terrorism can now be used by the state against any non approved, non-state violence or those they determine to be giving material support to any party doing violence.)

I don't think that definition some seem to seek to use is useful. (It could even be harmful.)

I would rather us be able to say acts are violence and then separate out the specific kinds of violent acts which may or may not intersect.

Like *sometimes* terrorism may also qualify as hate crime, but not all terrorism is that specifically targeted or motivated and not all hate crimes are necessarily terrorism.

I think terrorism necessarily has to have an element of the public being terrorfied. Like, if you the public dares do continue your normal business you will get bombs or germs or shootings regardless of who you are except general public. The idea is to make everyone scared to just continue their normal life.

A threat or attack against a specific person is not terrorism, in my opinion.

Threat(s) and attack(s) against a group of people that have a inherent and or protected trait is likely a hate crime. (Go far enough to endanger the existence of a whole people or culture and that's genocide.)

A threat or attack against an industry?? A practice?? People in certain chosen occupations?

I think we need the word for *that* political messaging and attack. Do we have one?

still looking for evidence -> they didn't have the evidence before

they're just straight up admitting they didn't have evidence for the terrorism charge when they indicted him. they just made that up. they charged him with terrorism because they felt like it.

[uceyliyahh]

PRETTY LITTLE FEARS

Summary: "Don't just sugar coat, or say it all if you want" After dealing with a harsh breakup with her ex-boyfriend during their trip together, Soraya decided to own her hair salon business with the help of her father of course until one night that all changed.

This fanfic is 18+! NO MINORS ALLOWED

word count: 5014

smut warning; it’ll come in the story randomly so PLEASE PLEASE look out for it I’m not really good at writing ✍🏽 smuts but I’m improving at the moment.

Jey Uso x Soraya

AWFUL GRAMMAR IM GETTING BETTER I SWEAR LOL.

comments, likes, repost are appreciated I would love the constructive feedback in what area I need to approve in. 🤍

ALSO! I don’t not want nobody stealing my fanfics or take it as theirs that will be an issue fasho so keep it cute respectfully.

I only own my OC along with the make up scenarios

But I’ll be writing along the way since this story is in my drafts on Wattpad right now so yuh. 💁🏽‍♀️

TAGS ⬇️ lmk if you wanna be tag 🏷️@pinkwithhearts @420days @jstarr86 @empressdede @angiedawn02 @biancasreign

@bebesobrielo @skyesthebomb @aikosilo @papireigns-05 @punksyeet @paigereeder @magnificentbouquetmusic

@hunnidmilly @celesteheartsjey @charmed-dreamssss @fearlesschimera @partypoison00 @mselenalovebug @bloodlinesbabe93 @justazzi @luvrsluxe @4milly

P.L.F. - 1

OMNISCIENT Soraya recently had a fiery confrontation with her boyfriend, Xavier, who is now her ex. The argument erupted over his questionable texting habits with other women. Despite his attempts to deny any wrongdoing and insist that his heart belonged solely to her, the tension between them was undeniable.

She was adamant that he had spoiled their trip and insisted on going home, but he dismissed her concerns, claiming she was overreacting and that they simply needed some time apart to calm down.

"C'mon Raya don't be like this," Xavier begged.

"Nigga you're literally speaking to other women that aren't me my reaction is perfectly normal," She said while folding her arms around her chest.

"You're just being dramatic right now, let's just cool off for a second,"

She was taken aback, unable to comprehend how he could dismiss her feelings so casually. Soraya let out a scoff, overwhelmed by disbelief at his nonchalant attitude toward the situation.

"I've had enough; I can't keep going through this with you. You always brush aside my feelings whenever you find yourself in a tough spot." With that, Soraya started to gather her belongings, while Xavier stood by, watching her in silence..

She frequently resorts to this behavior whenever they find themselves in a heated argument over his actions or her choices that he disapproves of.

She would usually return, and they would have passionate makeup sex, rekindling their connection. However, this time is different; she isn't coming back. She's mentally exhausted and drained from everything that's happened.

"Where are you going to go Raya?" He questioned her.

Soraya declared firmly, "This is no longer your business, Xavier. I'm finished with all of this, and I'm finished with you." With that, she swiftly collected her luggage, ensuring she had everything essential before stepping out the door.

Xavier seized her arm just as she was about to step outside, locking eyes with her in a menacing glare that felt like a stark warning.

"You know you'll be right back here,"

"Watch me not be there you'll be looking stupid," She said as she yanked her arm away from his grasps.

She picked up her phone to book an available flight and, to her delight, discovered that the next one wouldn't board until 11. With plenty of time to spare at just 9:30 AM, she decided to send a quick message to her best friend.

IMESSAGE 💬 Rara💗: Bestie Jadebae🌪️: What's up girl? I thought you and your man was enjoying yall trip together? Rara💗: we were until I found out that he was texting other women behind my back Jadebae🌪️: bitch what? Rara💗: yeah, and when I told him I found out about it we got into an heated argument over it so now I'm booking a flight to come back home Jadebae🌪️: omg girl I am so sorry that happened to you does your father know? Rara💗: no he doesn't know that I'm coming back home early today but I should be there around the evening time I need to be out Jadebae 🌪️: Ouuuu girl I know a club that we can go to tonight when you come back Rara💗: count me in because I'm tired of this I just wish I had a real man that could treat me right you know did I do something wrong? Jadebae 🌪️: Soraya no you didn't do nun wrong he just can't handle you that's all Rara💗: yeah you're right but I should be home soon see you then bestie Jadebae🌪️: kk bestie

Upon informing her best friend about receiving a text from Xavier, she couldn't help but let out a sigh as she read through the messages he was sending her.

Baby😩 sent three messages.

IMESSAGE 💬 Baby😩: you know you'll come back home soon Baby😩: who else is going to dick you down like I do huh? No nigga can't handle you Baby😩: see you when I get home little mama

Soraya rolled her eyes, fully aware that Xavier was overly convinced in his own delusions, believing she would return for a casual encounter after everything that had happened.

When she doesn't return at all, he'll soon understand how foolish he looks for treating her like a fool.

She also had clients who required her hair services, ensuring she would earn her fair share without needing his assistance at all.

* ˚ ✦ Soraya arrived home at last, steering her car into the driveway and shutting off the engine. With determination, she opened the trunk, retrieved her bags, and made her way to the front door.

As she approached her door, she retrieved the key from her keychain and unlocked it, stepping inside to be greeted by the delightful aroma of her home.

She felt a wave of relief wash over her as she stepped into her home, grateful to be free from his presence. She could no longer tolerate his behavior. Setting her luggage down beside the couch, she kicked off her shoes and neatly arranged them on the shoe rack nearby.

She reached out to her father to let him know she had arrived home safely, secretly wishing he wouldn't pry into the details of her trip with Xavier.

She headed upstairs to the bathroom for a refreshing shower, preparing herself for a fun night out with her friends.

She chose a stunning two-piece black ensemble that accentuated her figure beautifully, complemented by elegant jewelry.

Her phone was constantly buzzing with messages from Xavier, who was making violent threats against anyone who dared to come between them. It was clear that he felt he had lost control over her, yet he was still trying to intimidate her with his empty threats.

She decided to mute his messages, not wanting to expose herself to any more of his erratic thoughts, especially considering how his entire family seemed just as unhinged.

After taking her shower, Soraya came out the shower grabbing her phone checking the time she had a few minutes to get ready so that's what she did.

She carefully adjusted her hair and makeup, ensuring she looked her best for the evening. Now that she was officially single, she felt liberated to embrace her freedom and do whatever she desired.

As she snatched her keys and stepped out the door, Soraya slid into the car, immersing herself in the rhythm of the music. With K. Michelle's "Can't Raise A Man" playing, she belted out the lyrics with passion, completely lost in the moment.

At this moment, Soraya felt an intense loathing for Xavier, who had caused her so much distress.

As she arrived at her destination, she quickly texted Jade to let her know she had made it. Stepping out of the car, she was struck by how crowded it was that night. Entering the club, she was greeted by a lively scene filled with people enjoying drinks and dancing energetically on the floor.

She skillfully navigated through the bustling dance floor as she spotted Jade and her other best friend enthusiastically waving their hands to welcome her.

"Raya! Hey girl you made it!" Jade Exclaimed as she got up from her seat as she hugged her.

"Girl, you know I wasn't going to say no to do I am single now so I can do whatever I want," She said.

"Period as you should fuck that nigga," Soraya sat down with her girls and began taking shot a Hennessy along with a chaser.

She was eager to have a good time, but she knew she had to keep it in check because she would be driving home afterward, or at least that's what she believed.

Soraya had taken a few more drinks and was starting to feel the effects, but the urgent need to use the restroom was becoming impossible to ignore. She quickly informed Jade and her other best friend that she was making her way to the bathroom. As she navigated through the crowd, it seemed to part for her, allowing her to move with ease.

She was so lost in thought that she collided with someone, nearly losing her balance. Fortunately, they were quick to catch her. As she looked up, she found herself studying the intriguing features of the person who had saved her from a fall.

Her mind raced with the thought, 'he's incredibly attractive,' as they locked eyes, his gaze drifting from her lips back to her eyes, creating an undeniable connection between them.

"I am so sorry I didn't mean to bump into like this," Soraya apologized as the fine specimen smiled at her making her stand upright.

"It's all good little mama," She was taken by surprise when his gravelly, deep voice reached her ears, prompting a smile as she made her way to the restroom.

She felt the weight of everyone's gaze as she approached the restroom, realizing that the individual she had just collided with was accompanied by a group.

She resolved that she would refrain from having any more drinks, determined not to risk crashing her car. After returning from the restroom, Soraya couldn't shake the feeling of being watched; the same group of people continued to stare at her, sending a chill down her spine as she made her way back to her table.

She noticed that her closest friends were completely intoxicated, behaving wildly like untamed creatures.

"Sorayaaaaaaaaaa bitch we are drunk as fuck right now girl," Jade said in a drowsy tone.

She chuckled at them, "I can see that girl y'all two need to take a break child," Soraya said as she pulled out her phone and began scrolling through her social media.

She observed her closest friends hit the dance floor as "Attention" by 451 filled the air. Glancing at the clock, she realized that an early morning work shift awaited her. With a sigh, she picked up her purse and keys, preparing to leave the vibrant scene behind.

As she stepped out the door, she planned to tell her friends in the morning. While making her way to her car, she noticed someone parked right behind it.

As she was about to enter her car, an assailant swiftly covered her mouth with a cloth, leaving her to grapple with the overwhelming urge to resist the attack.

Her breath quickened with anxiety as she fought against her captor, but soon everything faded to darkness. They pulled the cloth from her mouth while lifting her into their vehicle.

Fading away into the horizon.

* ˚ ✦ SORAYA As I opened my eyes, a thick fog clouded my thoughts, making it difficult to grasp my surroundings. A wave of panic washed over me as I struggled to understand where I was. Glancing around the room, clarity began to emerge—I was in the bedroom.

As the lights faded to a soft glow, I slowly regained my senses and rose to my feet. I approached the door, desperate to escape, but found it firmly locked from the other side. I pounded on it with all my might, yet my efforts were in vain.

As I settled onto the bed, a wave of confusion washed over me. Suddenly, the realization struck me—I had been kidnapped. The identity of my captor was a mystery, but one thing was clear: I had to escape this place immediately.

I searched frantically for my purse, which contained my phone, but it was completely missing from view. This situation was driving me crazy as I felt my frustration escalating in this room.

I could hear the sound of the door unlocking, and I caught a glimpse of a shadowy footstep approaching. Doubt crept in, making me hesitate to open the door. However, I knew I had to escape this place, so I steeled my resolve and decided to take action.

Upon opening the door, I was greeted by a short figure who looked at me with a warm smile.

"Hello Ms Williams, Roman Reigns would like to see you," He said.

'Who was this Roman, and what could he possibly want from me?' Those thoughts raced through my mind as I tried to avoid any trouble. Reluctantly, I decided to comply and trailed behind him to Roman's office.

The air was thick with silence, a palpable tension hanging between us as I felt a wave of fear wash over me, uncertain of what lay ahead. My gaze wandered around the house, and I couldn't help but notice its grandeur. This mansion stood out, adorned with intricate decor and an abundance of furniture that spoke of a rich history.

Upon arriving at his office, the door swung open to reveal none other than the individual known as Roman Reigns, accompanied by the same man I had encountered at the club.

"Ms. Williams, please take a seat, dear," Roman urged, and I complied with his request.

I felt a deep sense of fear, completely bewildered by the situation I found myself in and uncertain about what was expected of me.

"You might be curious about my presence or my current location, but let me reassure you—you're completely safe, darling." His deep voice was so mesmerizing that it felt as if I were under a spell, completely entranced by his words.

"What is it that you seek from me? I-I can't even tell who you are," I replied, my voice trembling.

"You will hon, once you get to hear my reasoning why I have you captured,"

I rose to my feet, eager to escape, as I felt pressed for time and longed to be home. Yet, his voice sent a chill down my spine. "Sit the hell down!" The command was so forceful that I found myself sitting back down, locking eyes with him in a moment of tense silence.

"Listen, my dear, I've been observing you and your father for quite some time. I run a wrestling business, just like your father, if I'm not mistaken?" he remarked.

I nodded along, not wanting to provoke him further as he continued, "I'm eager to form a partnership with your father, but he dismissed me, calling me a 'tacky' imitation trying to siphon off his wealth. It's amusing, but that's beside the point; what truly matters is that I want to take ownership." His words left me confused; I didn't have a deep understanding of my father's business dealings, but I knew enough to sense the tension.

I crossed my arms and arched an eyebrow at him, asking, "How is this relevant to me?" I could hear him chuckling in response.

"My dear, this is where you play a crucial role. I would love for you to become a part of our venture." I felt a rush of surprise at his proposition; the world of gambling and drug dealing was never my scene, and it certainly wasn't something I wanted to be involved in.

I hesitated, looking Mr. Roman in the eye. "I'm not sure I can go through with that. My father always warned me to steer clear of situations like this, insisting that they can be perilous for someone like me."

"Is there any other option?"

He gave a slight nod and said, "You can remain here without causing any trouble. But make no mistake—if you attempt to flee, we will not think twice about ending your life right here. Do you understand?" Roman warned.

I nodded my head but I did have one more question though.

"Can I expect to retrieve my phone and laptop? What if my best friend is anxious about my situation and my—" Roman slid an envelope across the table to my companion, urging him to take a look inside.

As I opened it, my heart raced, and my eyes widened at the sight of pictures and messages exchanged between Xavier and numerous women. He had always assured me not to worry about them, making me doubt my own sanity. But now, it was clear—I wasn't losing my mind after all.

I tossed the envelope onto the table, my body shaking with disbelief. Make no mistake, my love for Xavier was genuine, but witnessing this—there was no way it could be real.

"T-this can't be real you had to photoshop this right?" I asked.

"Oh, sweetheart, this is the truth. Every time he toyed with your emotions and then offered you some dick, it only deepened your delusions," Roman remarked. I tried to rise in protest, but a wave of dizziness washed over me, forcing me to sink back into the chair.

At that moment, he snapped his fingers, and a short man named Paul approached him.

"Yes, my tribal chief,"

"Take her to her room she needs to rest and also bring her some fresh clothes for in the morning for her okay?" Paul nodded his head as he walked towards my way holding out his hand.

As I gazed up at him, my fingers lightly clasped around his hand, he guided me out of the office. Just before we stepped through the door, I caught Roman's voice behind us, saying, "It was a pleasure meeting you, Ms. Williams." As we exited, I couldn't help but scan the surroundings, searching for an exit strategy. The thought of danger loomed over me, but I knew I had to navigate this delicate situation carefully, playing along for now to ensure my safety.

Paul escorted me back to my room, gently opening the door for me. As I stepped inside, I heard the unmistakable sound of him locking it behind me. I collapsed onto the bed, wishing fervently that this was merely a dream and not my reality.

I shut my eyes and let myself gently slip into slumber.

* ˚ ✦ At nine in the morning, the sun streamed through the curtains, casting a warm glow around the room. Cocooned in my blankets, I was momentarily puzzled about who had taken the time to care for me. As I blinked awake, I noticed neatly folded clothes on the dresser, a thoughtful gesture that added to my sense of wonder.

I thought it was Paul who had done it while I was still asleep, but I can't say for sure. As I sat up and stretched, my back arched slightly. I made my way to the dresser, picked up some clothes, and headed into the bathroom.

Upon entering the bathroom, I was struck by its stunning aesthetic. The ceiling-mounted shower head and the adjacent tub create a harmonious design, while the LED lights enhance the overall ambiance, showcasing the bathroom's beauty in the best possible way.

I removed my clothes and set them on the sink counter before stepping into the shower. As the warm water cascaded over me, a wave of relief washed over my body, prompting a deep sigh of satisfaction.

I reflected on Roman's conversation from yesterday regarding my potential involvement in the business, but I still felt uncertain. It appeared too risky, and I was unclear about what I would be stepping into.

I recognized the sound of my name being called, and it seemed to be Paul's voice. "Ms. Williams? Breakfast is ready, just wanted to give you a heads up," he announced before I heard the door click shut behind him.

I found myself unable to shake the thought of that striking individual I encountered, and seeing him here again raised questions. Was he somehow connected to Roman? He looked incredibly sharp in all black yesterday, yet I had to remain cautious, uncertain of their intentions.

Stepping out of the bathroom, I enveloped myself in a towel, securing it around my body and hair. As I settled onto the bed, I allowed my thoughts to wash over me, lost in a sea of contemplation while my skin dried.

'What am I going to do?'

'What am I going to tell my father who's probably worried about my safety,'

'I know Jade is probably worried sick right now,'

'How long was I going to be here,'

Just as I was lost in my thoughts, a knock on the door broke the silence. I called out for the person to enter, and when I looked up, I was surprised to see the same man from yesterday cautiously peering in.

"I was just checking to see if you were awake," he said as he entered, sending a wave of fear through me as I wondered what he had in store.

He spotted my trembling form and, with a chuckle, placed his hands on his hips. "Relax, little mama, I'm not here to hurt you," he said. That familiar voice echoed in my mind—the very same one I had heard at the club with Jade and Kelly. It was him.

"Y-you're the person I bumped into yesterday right?" I asked him as he sat down next to me.

"Yeah, you were really tipsy that night huh," I rolled my eyes at him he must think he got jokes right.

I removed the towel from my hair and kept drying it, as there was no blow dryer or any other option available in this room.

His gaze was unmistakably fixed on me, and the weight of it made me glance his way for just a moment. In that fleeting instant, I couldn't help but admire his striking features; he was undeniably stunning.

"Are you related to Roman or something?"

"Absolutely, that's my cousin who runs this wrestling business, and I'm his right-hand man, alongside my twin brother."

'Twin brother? I didn't see his twin brother when I was in Roman's office yesterday,'

"Right hand man? What you do?" I asked him standing up unwrapping the towel away from my body.

He started to say something, but his attention was quickly drawn to my curves, his gaze lingering on my body, particularly my backside. However, he managed to refocus and began to speak.

Jey shared, "I assist my cousin in running a gambling operation and dealing drugs to those who place bets on a specific wrestler. If they lose, we keep all the cash and drugs; if they win, we provide them with what we promised. It can get chaotic at times, but that's not the norm." I nodded in agreement as I finished putting on my last piece of clothing.

"Sounds similar to what my father does, but why did Roman want me involved in this?" He chuckled at me while he smiled.

"You asking a lot of questions princess," His words took me by surprise, and I found myself blushing as I turned my head at the affectionate nickname.

He became aware of it as he stood up, hearing his footsteps approaching. When his hand brushed against my waist, I was taken aback by the unexpected sensation.

I gazed intently into his warm, brown eyes, feeling as though he was peering into the depths of my innocent soul.

"What?—what'chu blushing for?"

"N-nothing you should leave before you get in trouble with Roman," I said as I managed to move away from him not wanting to get caught up.

"Mama he ain't going to do anything if he don't find out but I'll see you around," He said as he left the room causing me sigh feeling my heart beating like crazy.

'Why does he have this type of affection on me when we don't even know each other?'

Following breakfast, I took a leisurely stroll around the area, treating myself to a personal tour. With my stay here extending indefinitely, I explored various rooms and admired the beautiful gardens both indoors and outdoors.

I noticed something unusual while I was engaged in my task. Roman was on the phone, visibly upset, and I couldn't help but be intrigued. Curiosity got the better of me, and I leaned in closer, peering around the wall to catch snippets of his heated conversation.

"She will be staying here for a while,"

"Nothing will happen to her, do you know how long it would take for her father apply to my approval?"

"Well damn it get a move on! I want his business! That way we could thrive and have more power!"

While I was quietly listening in on his conversation, a sudden throat clearing from behind startled me, and I turned to see who it was.

"I take that you're very nosy as well? Budding into people's conversations?" Jonathan said.

"Jesus you fucking scared me—wait aren't you Jey's twin brother?" I asked as he folded his arms over his chest.

"Yeah, you must be Soraya? Or should I call you Ms Williams?" He said I rolled my eyes at him.

"Just call me Soraya I hate how formal yall are with me like I'm so old lady," I heard him chuckling at my joke as I walked past him going back inside the house.

He trailed behind me as if I were a stray puppy, asking, "Don't you all have responsibilities to attend to?" Jonathan simply shook his head while I carried on exploring the house.

"Nah but we do have a club to go to this evening, Roman got a meeting with some people," I shot him a 'oh' as I saw one of the rooms that had a lock on it. When I wanted to turned the knob Jon's hand stopped me as I looked at him.

"I wouldn't want to go in there Roman kept it private for his special sessions," He said as my face turned up in disgust.

I quickly stepped away from the door as soon as we heard someone shout Jonathan's name.

"Yo! Uce C'mon we gotta get going it's important ," Jey said as he look at me.

"A'ight I'll talk you later Soraya," As Jonathan walked away from me I could see Jey coming towards my way.

His towering presence loomed above me, making me feel diminutive in comparison. As our eyes locked, the atmosphere around us grew heavy with unspoken tension.

"You good? Act like you seen a ghost girl," He asked.

"I admit, I'm feeling a bit uneasy because you're so tall," I said, quickly looking away to avoid his gaze.

He took hold of my chin, forcing me to meet his gaze once more, his eyes scanning my face as if he were savoring every detail. "Soraya, is it? That's yo' name," he said, and I nodded, feeling his grip tighten around my waist.

"I never caught your name, you know," I said as he had a playful smile. "It's Joshua, but feel free to call me Josh—whatever suits you best ma." Honestly, these endearing nicknames he was throwing my way were going to drive me crazy.

"Josh! Stop flirting with Soraya and let's go before Roman get's pissed!" Jonathan shouted.

"I'll you later then gorgeous," after he jogged towards Jonathan leaving me dumbfounded.

After finishing my mini tour, I stepped into my bedroom and closed the door behind me. I took a seat on my bed, focusing on calming my breath.

The connection we shared in that instant left a profound impact on me, as if he had woven an invisible thread between us. As I lay on my pillow, I struggled to push aside the memory of our encounter, wishing to erase the feelings it stirred within me.

* ˚ ✦ As I regained consciousness, I realized it was still dark outside. Sitting up quickly, I felt a surge of anxiety, hoping I hadn't delayed our plans to hit the club. My eyes were drawn to the dresser, where a stunning dress and some elegant jewelry awaited.

I rushed to change into the dress, eager to avoid upsetting Roman. After all, I'm just a girl trying to keep the peace. Just then, I heard a knock on the door and saw Jey peek his head in from the hallway.

"I see you're awake mama did you sleep well?" Jey said sitting down on the edge of the bed.

"Y-yeah I did what time is it if I may ask," I said.

"It's almost time to head out we were hoping that you would be awake,"

I turned my back to him, nodding slightly as I attempted to fasten my necklace. The task proved more challenging than I anticipated, and Jey, noticing my struggle, approached me with purposeful footsteps.

He took the necklace and, as he did, his intoxicating scent enveloped me. It was thrilling yet perilous to be near him, as I struggled to keep my thoughts in check. With a gentle motion, he fastened the necklace around my neck, and I heard the satisfying click that sealed our connection.

I gazed into the mirror, and he mirrored my actions, captivated by my beauty. The way the dress hugged my curves was simply enchanting. I felt his hands glide down my hips, drawing me nearer, enveloped in his intoxicating scent.

"J-Josh..." I muttered while looking up at him.

His eyes met mine, a warm smile lighting up his face as he said, "What's Up, beautiful." I felt an irresistible urge to reach out, my fingers softly gliding over his cheek in a tender caress. In response, he took my hand, pressing a gentle kiss to my palm with his velvety lips.

I felt his pants tightening around him while he brushed up against me.

"W-we gotta get going Josh..."

"There's no need to hurry, darling; they can wait. Just allow me to feel you for a moment," he said. I wanted to object, but instead, I surrendered to his touch, hoping that no one would interrupt us.

He gazed at me with undeniable desire, his lips parting slightly as he tucked them in. His hands glided down my curves, gripping my hips firmly, which made me catch my breath in surprise.

We quickly separated, our attention drawn to Jonathan as he peeked his head through the door.

"Ion' know what yall got goin on in here but Roman said we gotta leave before we are late so hurry it up," He said as Jey rolled his eyes at him.

My cheeks burned with embarrassment over what had just transpired moments ago. Why did I react that way? Why didn't I just push him away when I had the opportunity?

What is going on with me?

Jey looked at my direction chuckling at my facial expression as he walked towards me, "we will be alone again mama and this time nobody will interfere a'ight? c'mon let's go before Roman start tripping." Jey said as I nodded my head.

'Jesus Take the Wheel'

Pretty Little Fears.

A/n: Helllooo I am back with a new story honestly I didn't really like marked so I decided to get into my dark romance bag it's my first time ever doing something like this so please bare with me aight? lol 😭 but I think I might like this story a lot probably will publish it on Tumblr.

But enough of me yapping, I think there is something going on between Soraya and Jey fr fr.

I hope yall enjoyed this chapter lmk in the comments below.

STAY UCEY.

[morganski-19]

Chills Right to the Marrow Part 64

ao3 link| part 1 . . . part 61, part 62, part 63

the first part takes place after part 53, the second takes place after part 55, and the last before/during part 52

“Jesus Christ this wallpaper is terrible,” Eddie comments as he shuts the door behind him. As he, apparently, followed Steve up the stairs. Because he can’t give Steve a moment to deal with this. To not yell at him for not being prepared.

“I said I don’t want to talk about this again,” he repeats. Firm in his tone.

Eddie practically falls onto Steve’s bed, rolling to lay on his back. “I’m not focusing on that right now. I’m focusing on the fact that I just climbed a flight of stairs and am fucking winded. Holy shit, when did stairs become so hard.”

Steve snorts. Grateful for a moment where he can think of something else.

“So this is Steve Harrington’s room, huh,” Eddie continues. “This is what all the girls were so excited to see. From what I can see from laying down, I guess it’s ok. The décor is terrible though, what the hell is this furniture.” He pauses, because Steve took off his shirt, briefly, before slipping on a sweatshirt. “Oh, never mind, I get it.”

“You knew that they weren’t coming here for the furniture,” Steve mocks, laying down next to Eddie.

Eddie rolls his eyes. “Well aware. Just a joke. And maybe my round about way of asking to see you without clothes.”

“Could just be direct. Not like it would be unwanted or anything.” He takes a deep breath. “But that’s not what you came up here for.”

“That is not what I came up here for,” Eddie confirms. He turns on his side, looking at Steve. “I know you don’t want to talk about it, and I know Robin keeps bothering you about it, but I think not talking about it is worse.”

“Eddie,” Steve exhales.

“And,” he persists, “there is something that you’re not saying. And I think it’s better if you did.”

Steve lets out a deep breath, sitting up and Eddie does the same. He looks at Steve expectantly, but patiently. Reaching to take one of Steve’s hands and hold it. Waiting for him to open up.

“The more I think back on times in my life,” Steve starts, “my parents weren’t always terrible parents. When I was a kid, my dad would play catch with me in the yard, put in the pool when he learned I loved to swim, would help my study when I needed it. My mom, she would take me to the movies on my days off from school, bring me to the park, read to me. They went to all my games, had interest in my life and my friends, even insisted they met Nancy when they learned we were dating. Even if by then they had already pulled back.”

It was more for approval, he realizes now. But then, it was everything. There were times that Steve could look back on and try to find something wrong, something that made them out to be bad, but he couldn’t. There were other times that proved the exactly opposite of that, plenty of those times, but they all happened later.

Before high school, his parents were there. They seemed to enjoy being parents. Even if it was all a ruse, even if it was for a motive not obvious at the time, it still felt real.

“Sometime in high school, they just stopped caring. My dad cheated on my mom, and she started following him on all his business trips. They were home less and less. Each time they came back, it was clear that they weren’t interested in hearing about me anymore. This house was just a pit stop for them.”

Before, back in middle school, report card day used to terrify him. He was never good at math or science, something he could never wrap his mind around. No matter how hard he tried, he could never get that grade to an “A”. Something to be proud of. Yet, every time that report came through the mail, he was greeted with a smile from his mother, and a good effort from his dad. A motivating message to try and get better. It felt good in the moment.

There were a lot of moments like that. Where it felt good in the moment, but as Steve grew up, he understood the tone a little more. The meaning behind the eyes he was too scared to look in. It finally set in when he almost failed his freshman algebra. Passing wasn’t good enough, it wasn’t rewarded, just accepted. A lot of things were accepted and not revered.

Trophies were never allowed downstairs. It was a shelf in Steve’s room, that was their place. Because he should be proud of them, and be happy to look at them every day. And when people came over, his parents got to boast and have him run up the stairs to go and fetch the trophy for viewing, before being shunned again.

It wasn’t until he went over to Nancy’s for the first time, the proper first time, and saw Mike’s science fair ribbon hanging on the fridge next to Nancy’s straight “A” report. Dozens of pictures that Holly drew decorating their fridge. That was what real pride looked like. Even if they were just there for the day, it wasn’t shunned. It was acknowledged.

Steve’s accomplishments, his personality, his life was kept from the rest of the house. From them. Everything they ever cared about was things that could be bragged, and then hidden back away. When his notoriety ended, so did their love.

“I wasn’t interesting for them anymore.”

Eddie squeezes his hand, leaning on his shoulder. Steve didn’t realize that he started crying, not until a tear dripped off his chin and fell onto his lap. He stares at the small dark stain, and finds a way to finish.

“And as much as I hate them, as much as I can now see how bad they really were. There is still this part of me that is waiting for them to come back. Them selling the house is just proof that they never are.”

The air feels cleaner now that he’s said it out loud. The room less heavy, his mind a little more blank.

“They don’t deserve you,” Eddie says quietly. Using his hand to pull him closer, kissing his temple. “They don’t deserve you at all.”

“No, no they don’t.” Steve shakes his head, looking around at the only bedroom he’s ever known. “Where am I supposed to go after this?”

Eddie’s hand cups Steve’s cheek, his thumb rubbing away the tears. “One step at a time, right. We’ll get through this one step at a time. This is step one right here. Step two can come when it needs to. Step one point five can be us, sitting here, while you feel whatever you need to feel. Then we’ll get up, and we’ll eat something because I don’t know about you but I’m fucking starving. And then maybe we can watch a movie or something.”

Steve laughs, turning to look at Eddie. “I think I can do that.”

. . .

“So you’re moving in with Eddie?” Dustin asks unprompted.

Steve stills, setting the pile of tapes on the counter. “Uh, yeah, I am. How did you know that?”

They didn’t tell the kids about that yet.

“Not that hard to guess, considering you’ve been dating in secret.”

Also didn’t tell them about that.

He looks around, instinctively making sure no one is there. Even though the front door is locked, Steve just finishes up his closing tasks before he can go. Dustin had insisted that he stay so he didn’t have to bike home in the dark, which was a ruse, he knew. He just hoped that this wasn’t why.

It’s not like he never wanted Dustin to know. Just, that he wanted a bit more time. Robin knowing didn’t mean much, Wayne knowing meant it couldn’t go as unacknowledged. Telling Dustin meant it was real, though. This was it. No take backs if they mess up. No reverting back into awkward friends. Their relationship was real. Known.

Which wouldn’t be such of a problem if Steve wasn’t so scared he was going to mess it up. Every past relationship he’s had, even the small ones, have proven to him that things don’t tend to work out for him. It starts out great, better than he could possibly have imagined, and then it goes south. He says things he regrets, they say things they regret. It’s awkward for two years until a murderous psychopath forces them to spend enough time together to find a way to be friends again.

Robin says he’s projecting too much, but he thinks it’s being cautious. He’s been hurt. Sue him if he didn’t want to be hurt again.

“No one’s here, Steve,” Dusitn confirms when he notices him looking around. “It’s just me.”

Somehow, that doesn’t make it any better.

“I know.”

He truly doesn’t know how Dustin is going to respond. Which side he’s going to pick. He was close with both of them, it was going to be hard.

Steve was hoping Dustin would pick him, but he’s not sure about that.

Dustin makes a motion for him to continue, as if he’s supposed to have something to say.

“I don’t know what I’m supposed to say here. You seem like you already know everything.”

“I don’t know,” he exclaims. “Maybe hearing how long? How it happened? When you figured out you liked dudes? Something.”

Steve sighs, setting in more tapes to be rewound before answering. “When I worked at the mall, that’s when I figured out I liked guys. Or when I started to question it, I guess. I don’t think it was until after that I finally accepted it.”

Dustin nods, taking it all in. “And when you started liking Eddie?”

“I’m not exactly sure on that one. I know it was somewhere between getting stuck in the upside down and the final battle. But it all kind of hit me before we split off.”

“So that Nancy thing, that was all a fluke?”

He shrugs. “Yeah, kind of.”

“You know you are going to make this insanely complicated for me if you guys break up.”

“I am aware.” He switches out the tapes again. “Hoping that doesn’t happen, though.”

Dustin’s silent for a moment. Steve’s waiting for the shovel talk, ensuring that he doesn’t hurt Eddie. A sign that he’s lost Dustin in the potential breakup. Proof that, again, no one was going to stay.

“You seem happier,” Dustin says instead. “I didn’t notice it at first. But after you guys stopped fighting with each other, which is when I’m assuming you started dating, you changed. I haven’t seen you this happy before.”

Before Steve can find anything to respond to that, Dustin comes around the counter and hugs him.

“I know you didn’t exactly tell me the way you wanted, but I’m glad I know. And I’m glad that you’re happy.”

Steve smiles. “Thanks.”

“I’ll egg his house or something if he ever breaks your heart.”

He laughs. Selfish relief washing over him. “I appreciate it.”

. . .

His room never was the most cluttered thing there was, but it was still weird seeing it bare. His drawers empty, the pile in the back of his closet finally cleaned out. It was the end of something.

Life is always described in chapters. One bit of life ends, and the next begins. For Steve, though, it felt like up until this moment was one book. Everything that included this house was all tied together in one binding. The novel that this house created impacting its reader enough for a lifetime. Impacting Steve for a lifetime.

Tomorrow, when he leaves this house for the last time, he hopes that it starts a new book, instead of a chapter. A completely fresh start. A sequel, of sorts, but a whole new plot to further his future. His life. Something else to be the conflict that weighs on him.

He hopes that tomorrow, he can walk through the front door for the last time and leave all the pain this house gave him behind.

“Holy shit,” Robin says while helping him find anything else he wants to keep in the house. “Is this you?”

He turns to find her holding a large photo album. It’s been years since he’s seen that. “Yeah. I think was five in that picture.”

“I haven’t seen a picture of you before you were twelve, I thought you popped out as a preteen.”

Steve laughs. “If you want to keep thinking that don’t turn to the front of the album.”

Her eyes widen as she flips to the first page, many pictures of Steve as a baby laid out on the pages. Robin starts teasing him, saying how she’s going to find a weird one and make it a point to show everyone. Which isn’t going to be hard, considering the outfits his mom used to make him wear.

It’s nice, knowing that someone liked to look at these pictures. Wants to keep them, somehow. He always thought his mom took the book with him, but it was in the one cabinet in the living room the whole time. A sad feeling washes over him that his mom was going to sell the house without coming to get it back. But it’s nice to know he gets to be the one to keep it. It’s better in his hands anyway.

“What’d you find,” Eddie asks, coming into the room.

“Baby pictures,” Robin jumps to explain. “Look at Steve in this stupid outfit.”

Steve makes a face when he sees that one. He doesn’t remember wearing it, but it looks like so many others he was forced to wear. All of them were so itchy.

“Oh my God. You were so little.” Eddie takes the book and looks closer, before bursting out laughing. “What the fuck is that hat?”

“I will never know what went through my mom’s head when she dressed me like this.” Steve lets them look a little longer before taking it and placing it in one of his boxes. Going back to searching for anything else he wants to keep, or steal.

Eddie has started finding his own things as well, and Robin. They both had what they considered fancy blankets and pillows that they wanted to keep. Some of the kitchen stuff is already at the house, but Steve is making sure he has what he’ll need when he eventually moves out as well. And then there are the movies and records he wants to keep. He’s also taking the nice record player, because why not really.

Not much he really wants to keep, though. Except for his room, much of the space was never really his. He didn’t need all the fancy decorations and excessive touches. That all could stay and die in the house.

But the photo album, the things that he allowed himself to add over time, the memories he wanted to keep, that was all his. It was allowed to leave with him.

“I can’t believe that you’re actually leaving this place,” Robin says while helping him load some boxes into his car. “I thought I’d have to drag you out of there.”

Steve scoffs. “I would have left eventually. Just . . . wanted some time to process everything first.”

She stands next to him, staring up at the house. “You know, I’m only going to the community college in the next town, it wouldn’t be a stretch to see if we could get a place together. Be close for both of us.”

“That’d be nice. I don’t think I want to live alone anymore.”

He drives her home, leaving some of the boxes he doesn’t immediately need and her parents graciously offered to hold in their basement. Then he drives back to his house that’s only his for one more night. It will be the last time he ever drives up the driveway. What a weird feeling that is.

Eddie’s waiting for him when he comes home. Watching something on the tv. “You ready for tomorrow?” he asks, softly, as Steve comes and sits next to him.

“I’m not sure.” He wraps an arm around Eddie, pulling him close.

“I guess we’ll figure it out together then.”

“Yeah.”

Much like when Steve feelings for Eddie started, he can’t tell the exact moment that they turned into loving him. There was just a morning when he woke up, and it was the first thought in his mind. He spent so long fearing for the next time he fell in love, he forgot how nice it felt at all. With Eddie, it just felt right. He couldn’t explain it, but it was freeing.

The evening is the normal he’s become accustomed to. A house that doesn’t suck the life out of him, simply because there is someone there. Someone to drag his attention away from the space that is left empty.

When he wakes up the next morning, it’s before anyone else.  He walks through the house one more time, the quiet surrounding him. It’s not as suffocating. It doesn’t drag him in and keep him there. Instead, it pushes him out the door for the last time, as ready for a new start as he is.

The last of the boxes get put in his car, in Wayne’s truck. He locks up, slides his key off the key ring and places it in the envelope with the rest of the copies. Takes his ability to enter this house and puts it in the mailbox. Leaving the house behind.

So many memories in this house, a mix of good and bad. He thought that leaving would feel like a massive weight off his shoulders, something to make him feel different. There is that lose of weight, but nothing that makes him feel that different. Nothing that makes the change hard, it was all easy.

Yet, when he makes the turn off his street, and heads to the other side of the town, he feels a sense of freedom he can’t describe. One that makes him smile for no real reason at all. Sun glaring in his eyes as it moves into the afternoon.

He pulls into the driveway of the Munson’s house, feet no longer stuck to the ground. He is moving forward now. Moving on.

It’s terrifying, but he’s ready for it.

I cannot express in this moment how much I will miss writing this fic. It has been an experience for me that I was not expecting when I started it, but came to me in moments when I needed it the most. Tomorrow I will post the very long reflection post I do for my fics, where I will be able to go into how and why this fic means so much to me, so check back to my blog for that if interested. But for now, I further cannot express the love I have for all of you readers. Writing this was never something I imagined to get the support that I have. I found myself surprised to see you all read this, and react in the way that you did. To know that I wrote a story that other people loved as much as me is something I can never understand, but am grateful for every day. To those who have left likes, reblogs, and comments, know that I read and saw every single one. I awaited your reactions, and they always brought a smile to my face. Thank you for your support, it means more than you can ever know. Thank you for reading this story, it was a pleasure writing it.

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[clanoffelidae]

Acknowledging the literary value of a work and the message behind it doesn’t mean I have to enjoy it. Catch-22 is a great commentary on war and the both absurd yet bitterly human nature of it while also commenting on both the horrendously negative and transcendently positive capabilities of humanity. I still think it’s boring as shit tho.

[yesterdayiwrote]

So... quick update on the Eurovision situation

The EBU decided that Israel can compete despite their country being under an active Genocide investigation by the ICJ. Their delegation have gone on to antagonise other contestants by filming them for their social media without permission and refusing to remove it when asked, harass journalists who have questioned if their inclusion is appropriate, and their commentators have made horrendous comments about the Irish contestant... all without sanction.

Meanwhile the Dutch contestant got into an undisclosed 'incident' with a female member of the production crew and they've referred it to the police and flat out disqualified him from the contest with less than 12 hours notice...

Which seems like a tremendous act of double standards at an event that is already marred by serious controversy. Obviously the second is not acceptable, but very difficult to understand how the first somehow... is?

[jakeperalta]

happy friday to everyone except my coworker who asked if I could help with a couple of things and then dumped a mountain of work on me with less than 1.5 hours left of the week 🙃

[erikahenningsen]

The problem with American politics is that nobody's making truly weird campaign ads anymore

[lambentplume]

my UI lit review just makes me want to make games

[addelaidesupreme]

I'm watching a video essay about a game ive been interested in playing. The creator of the video, who has crossdressed multiple times, makes a "women arent funny" joke, and i suddenly realize ive never witnessed him acknowledge a woman in an uplifting way before.

I'm on a dating app for lgbt+ people. I've stated multiple times on my profile that i would rather lose an arm than recieve nudes without consent. I will be sent five dick pics for every 2 people i talk to that night.

I'm talking with my dad, who informs me he's been trying his best to learn about trans issues. He says the same things steven crowder brings up when trying to ridicule trans people. I gently but firmly correct my father and get told that ive been fed propaganda.

I'm on instagram, under the comments of a post ridiculing someone for being a misogynyst. Someone's left a comment saying "it must be hard being a woman on the internet" and i respond "it is." I will have every aspect of my appearance scrutinized as a reminder that no matter how well i pass, it will never be enough for someone with bad intentions.

I'm back on that dating app for lgbt+ people. I'm messaged by an attractive looking person, but i can see their partner prominently displayed in all but their main photo, oftentimes striking what im sure they thought was a very intimidating pose. Their bio says "looking for a third for our anniversary." I know that even if I did feel up to it, the gruff partner wouldnt approve of me because i don't pass.

I'm at a job interview for a clothing store. I tell the gracefully-dressed woman interviewing me that ever since i began my transition, i've discovered an interest in fashion, and that this job would allow me to dip my toes into the industry in a safe way. I'm told that i've reduced womanhood to a stereotype, and i can tell by her tone that i lost any chance at the job the minute she realized i was trans.

I'm at the same hospital i got facial feminization surgery in, trying to figure out what's wrong with my bowels. When the person behind the desk gives me a wristband with my patient info on it, i notice a single, lonely, letter M. I ask a nurse in private why it would say that despite me having changed it nearly a year prior. They say they have no clue, and bring in paperwork for me to fill out and have it re-changed again.

I'm living with my mom at the time. I'm new to transitioning, and decide to try my hand at voice training. It feels a bit off, but otherwise im feeling neutral toward the whole thing. I try speaking in this new voice to my mom and she laughs. Now, when people ask if i intend to voice train, i find speaking at all difficult for minutes after.

I didnt have some sort of grand message to convey by this. I just had a thought and then that thought spiralled into whatever the hell this became. Some, okay most, might call it complaining; they are right to do so.

[teaboot]

I've never had a cat before and I'm hoping to get one soon. Do you have any advice?

Treat a new cat as you would a new roommate. Give them space and time to settle, establish a pattern and a rhythm, and in time they may choose to become friends and spend time with you. Dont force a friendship.

Use simple words and repetition to establish communication. Words like breakfast, treat, snack, lunch, supper, dinner, food, and eat all basically mean, "I am feeding you; expect to be fed", but it's a lot for a little guy to remember. I just say "Dinner" when I mean "cat food is coming", and so my boy knows exactly what I mean when I say it. As a plus, using only one word for snack time means he has no idea what the other words mean, so I can talk about food in front of him without ruling him up.

Pay attention to body language. Cats all have different personalities, and you'll learn their likes, dislikes, and messages over time this way. Son boy here loves anything with plumbing but dislikes getting wet- his favourite blanket to chew and snuggle goes on his favourite chair, and he gives me a specific gesture when he wants me to kneel down so he can jump onto my shoulder.

Read into problematic behaviour. Cats pee in weird places when they're hurting, in distress, or have insufficient of unclean litter box space. Biting, attacking feet , and knocking things off tables often means they're understimulated and need you to play with them, or at least need some kind of enrichment or puzzle to tackle. Tail flicking can be frustration or irritation. Purring is usually good, but may also be self-soothing behaviour to alleviate pain, encourage healing, and relieve anxiety, like over-grooming.

Like children, "bad" behaviour isn't malicious- it usually means there's something you aren't seeing.

Learn how your cat expresses love. Loads of people think cats are uncaring, cruel, and indifferent, but the truth is, they're just not dogs. Spending time near you, showing an interest in tools you're using or projects you're working on, sitting the way you sit, laying on their back, rubbing on your legs, wiping their face on your shoes when you get home- these are signs that your cat is enamored with you. You're their family, they feel safe and protected around you, they're curious about things you enjoy and want everyone to know you're family.

Set reasonable expectations. Again, cats are not dogs.We bred dogs to desire our approval- cats walked into our lives themselves. They have no human-programmed need to fulfill a duty or perform a task to your standards.

Training cats to do tricks isn't as hard as people say, but the willingness or interest in doing the trick is more heavily reliant on personality and mood. Some cats will refuse all but the most basic requests- I'm lucky in that Ollie understands and is willing to do several, provided I don't abuse his trust and he's not crowded or overwhelmed or just bored of doing it over and over in a short period.

Ollie, for example, knows Up to stand on his back legs and hold my hand, Down to get to a surface I indicate, Out to emerge from a closed space, Come to find me where I am, Help? when I'm offering to let him use me as an elevator, Dinner when I understand he's hungry and am getting food, and when I put on his collar he knows to climb into his carrier 'cause we're going somewhere. And he'll do any of these about 90% of the time, either ignoring me or phoning it in when there's something interesting somewhere else, or if he's feeling anxious.

Lead by example. If you dread taking them to the vet, they'll see the anxiety in your body language and behaviour and likely learn to hate it, too. Again using my guy an example, I starred taking him on walks long before his first vet appointment, just to get used to his carrier and leash. Then his first checkup was relaxed and informal, with plenty of treats, and I let him explore the examination room with permission from the tech. Now he loves going, so I'm not stressed about taking him, so I don't stress him out in turn, and the vest doesn't have to deal with a stressed out cat slowing things down and fighting with them.

Make sure your sources are good ones, and also good ones for you. I will recommend Jackson Galaxy's YouTube channel for cat advice because a lot of what he does matches up with what I've learned and know to be true. I don't personally recommend Ceasar Milan because I personally find his methods distressing to recreate regardless of efficacy, so even if that advice was useful, *I'd* be miserable, and it'd just be trading one issue for another.

Have a person who can help. You never know when you might end up out of town overnight unexpectedly, or when your place may need serviced or fumigated, or if you may be called out of town. Before getting a cat, research reliable pet sitters, house sitters, pet daycares, whatever, just in case.

Consider pet insurance. No long spiel here, just think about it. Especially if you don't know your cats ancestry or potenyial health risks. An on top of that, fucking vaccinate them.

Dont let them free roam. At all.

I grew up on a farm with free-roaming barn cats. Do you know how many times child-me cried over having to bury them? Illness, disease, pregnancy, vehicles, other territorial cats, ticks, fleas, litter, poisoned prey, malicious humans, local wildlife, predatory birds, scrap metal, extreme heat, freezing temperatures, tainted water sources, poisonous or venomous critters, getting stuck in small or high places, tapeworms, loose nails, old equipment, falling branches...

I've seen some truly body-horror slasher-movie shit- just truly nauseating visual fuckery- and I'm telling you not to let your cat free-roam.

Leash training isn't hard. Supervised walks aren't hard. Even keeping your cat physically fit and entertained indoors isn't an impossible feat. Don't let your fucking cat fucking free-roam. Fuck

Also read up on foods and plants cats can't do, like every houseplant in existence is toxic it's insane

Anyhow yeah that's like. A couple things I guess

Here, have an Ollie Pic

[fleshadept]

one of my oldest memories is from when i was about five or six years old. my grandma was visiting that evening, so she was tucking me into bed. now, my parents raised us agnostic with a side of unitarian universalism, so i knew next to nothing about christianity, or that god fellow, or whatever. my grandparents never approved of this, convinced they were damning us kids to hell forever.

so when my grandma was tucking me in and she told me to repeat after her and say “i love you jesus,” i did.

but then she said: “there. and now you’ve let jesus into your heart.” and kissed me and left me to dream sweet child dreams probably of jesus saving my immortal soul or whatever.

except, i didn’t know who the fuck jesus was, and i did not understand metaphor. i certainly had not realized that by saying that, i had apparently invited a small man to take up residence in my heart. my child brain raced with panic: was he in there? what would he do? would i be able to feel him moving around? was he stuck forever now? that seemed mean to him, and felt like my grandma had played a trick on me.

so, sensibly, i decided my best bet to expel this tiny man who i had NOT wanted to move into my heart (aside from surgery, which i discounted as an option when i imagined asking my parents about it) was to do the reverse incantation: i fell asleep that night mumbling and mentally shouting I HATE YOU JESUS I HATE YOU JESUS I HATE YOU JESUS, hoping he would get the message and relocate somewhere that wanted him.

[threadmonster]

I absolutely hate American healthcare 乁⁠(⁠ ⁠•⁠_⁠•⁠ ⁠)⁠ㄏ

[corkinavoid]

Thank you, @aceinacorner, for this gem:

You are the inspiration for

DPxDC Ring of Rage? More Like Ring of Engage [pt. 3]

[<- part 2 | part 4 ->]

Duke narrows his eyes.

He swears Tim was not in the Cave just five seconds ago, and yet, in the brief moment when Duke wasn't looking, he just materialized out of motherfucking aether. Smelling like Chinese food and holding a chicken skewer that looks so good that Duke's mouth waters.

"Can I have a piece?" He asks, the divine smell of food overriding the urge to ask 'where did you get it' or 'how did you get here'.

Tim nods, smiles, and hands Duke the whole skewer before going for the elevator.

Is it Duke's hallucination, or is he really humming something as he goes?.. Actually, that doesn't matter. The chicken tastes even better than it smells, and Duke is perfectly willing to keep his mouth shut in exchange for food.

You don't talk with your mouth full, after all.

~☆~

Cass watches Tim over the table. She hasn't heard him coming into the dinner room - no steps in the hall, no rustle of clothing or breathing. It's like the boy has somehow appeared right in front of the door out of nowhere before entering.

What's more, he seems obviously not hungry, picking at his food with an absent, if a bit dreamy, expression. Granted, Tim always picks at his food, but Cass can see the difference between 'Tim's mind is busy with a new case and therefore too distracted to eat' and 'Tim already had dinner elsewhere and is too full to eat now'.

The bags under his eyes are also not as dark as they usually are. Come to think of it, Cass hasn't seen him in a bad mood for a few weeks now, which shouldn't really be that strange, but it's Tim. The smallest of inconveniences can put him in a bad mood.

Tim notices her looking and raises an eyebrow.

Cass blinks and goes back to her plate. Whatever is keeping her brother happy, it deserves her full approval.

~☆~

Jason is... not so sure as to what is happening.

He did notice that Tim was really chill lately, but this is going a bit overboard.

"Did you spike it with arsenic, Replacement?" He asks, suspiciously looking the offered cup of coffee over without taking it. Tim - surprisingly, actually - doesn't react to the nickname in the slightest, instead giving Jason a deadpan look. Then, he brings the cup up to his mouth, takes a sip, and hands it back again.

Okay, well, that proves no arsenic, at least. It's still very weird. Tim doesn't just buy coffee for people, and he especially doesn't buy coffee for Jason.

"Am I going to owe you something for it, or what?" He asks, slowly reaching for the cup. Tim sighs.

"No. It's just a drink - my boyfriend loves it, and I think you'd like it as well," he explains with a shrug, and Jason is honestly too befuddled to ask about anything. Including the boyfriend part.

No, but since when does Timbers have a boyfriend? He sure hadn't mentioned anything about it to any of the others.

The drink turns out to be not coffee but something else, tangy and thick, and when Jason takes the lid off, it's green like Mountain Dew.

It does taste great, though, and later Jason considers asking Tim for another one. He hadn't had anything better in ages.

~☆~

Damian strikes through the last one of the training holograms, breathing heavily. And yet, just as the 'simulation complete' message pops up in the air, he hears a step behind him.

He turns around faster than a lightning, and-

Finds Timothy's neck at the tip of his katana, with his hands up in surrender.

"What are you doing here?" Damian sneers, lowering his weapon, and Tim swallows. Not because of surprise or fear, though, he clearly had some half chewed up food in his mouth.

"Inaccurate drop off," he says, looking Damian straight in the eyes, "I was aiming for the main floor."

He smells of Indian food and spices, and Damian almost sneezes.

"What do you mean 'aiming'?" He demands, but Drake just waves him off, heading towards the elevator up.

"No worries, I'll do better next time," he shoots a smile over his shoulder, "See you on patrol!" And with that, the elevator doors close after him, leaving Damian alone.

Drake has always been strange, but this is too much even for him.

Not that it's Damian's business. He huffs and starts the simulation over again.

~☆~

If Dick didn't witness it with his own two eyes, he would have never believed it. Alas, he did, and even though the swirling green vortex has already disappeared like it was never there, Tim, whom the strange portal just spat out on the floor of the Cave, is still here.

"What the fuck was that?" He nearly yells, and Tim looks up, a face of perfect innocence.

"What was what?" He returns the question, and Dick can't find the words to explain, so he just wildly gestures to the place where the portal has been less than five seconds ago. Tim blinks, "Oh, that. That was my date."

Dick chokes on his breath.

"Your date?" He parrots, hoarse and breathless, and Tim nods, like there's not a single thing wrong with anything that has just happened. "Since when do you go on dates? Wait, I thought you were engaged, you said it was cheating to date anyone else, even if you didn't know the spouse, you said-" he cuts himself off, feeling his own face slowly falling and his stomach sinking down in horror. "No. No, don't tell me."

But the shit-eating grin on Tim's face is already proof enough.

Dick clears his throat. Takes a deep breath.

Seeing that Tim is still in one piece, and, well, that he did just casually come out of a magic portal in the middle of the Cave, it's probably safe to say that it's not the first time.

And, judging by the mirth in Tim's grin, it's also safe to say he's been rather enjoying it.

Dick releases one long, loud breath and forces a smile on his face as well.

"So, how is it?" He asks, trying in vain to sound light-hearted, not suspicious. Tim's smile gets wider, and there's a glint of excitement in his eyes now, which Dick considers a good thing, all in all.

"Oh, I thought you'd never ask."

~☆~

Bonus Scene (that somehow turned out longer than I planned)

~☆~

"Where's Tim?" Bruce asks when all the rest of his kids are already seated around the table for breakfast.

"At Danny's, probably," Steph shrugs before digging into the waffles on her plate. Bruce frowns.

"Danny's?" He asks. He hasn't heard that name before. Is that a friend of Tim's?

"Drake's paramour," Damian clarifies, not bothering to look up from his own food, and Bruce's mind comes to a screeching halt. He blinks stupidly, looking around the table and sincerely hoping it is some sort of a prank, but Cass smiles and nods, and Dick has an expression of pure exhaustion on his face, and Duke is huffing a snort of laughter at him for it.

"Since when-" Bruce starts, but he is suddenly cut off by a glowing circle that appears just a few feet away from them all.

It grows quickly, morphing into a vortex, a green and ominous tear in reality big enough for a person to walk through, hanging in the air a few inches over the ground. The space around it feels staticky somehow, and the color is too bright to look at directly, and it definitely doesn't belong to their dining room. But before Bruce is able to say another word or do anything at all, Tim steps out of it, his hair and clothes ruffled.

"Oh, fuck," he mutters upon seeing them all, and turns around, sticking his head into the vortex just as it starts to close. The vortex pauses.

Bruce is almost too stunned to move.

His kids don't share the sentiment, though, most of them not paying the portal any attention at all. Bruce would have reprimanded them for the poor awareness of their surroundings if he didn't notice how Damian simply glanced up at it before going back to his food.

They saw the portal. They just didn't deem it dangerous. For some reason.

Tim's face comes back out, and he turns to Bruce. His expression looks different than before: a bit smug, a little mischievous, and just a tad bit nervous.

Then, another head pops up through the surface of the portal. A boy - or at least they look like a boy - with snow white hair that floats in the air and bright, almost neon blue eyes. His skin is far too pale for him to be human, and- he has freckles that look like constellations.

For some reason, that's the part that makes Bruce finally resign to the fact that this is just how his life is. With breakfasts interrupted by green portals and otherworldly boyfriends - because who else might it be, really - before he even had his morning coffee.

"Hi!" Said otherworldly boyfriend grins and waves his hand. "I'm Danny, Tim's fiance," he introduces himself, and Bruce conjures the last scraps of his scattered mind to smile and nod back.

"Good morning, Danny. I'm Bruce." He has no idea what else to say; it seems like a bit late for shovel talk, but a bit early for welcoming speech.

"Would Young Master Danny care to join us for breakfast?" Alfred's calm, but still slightly amused voice comes from the door. Bruce turns to look at the butler with a sense of exasperation - is he really the last one to learn anything in this house? - but the man seems... well, not surprised, at least not on the surface. But his grip on the pitcher of orange juice is just a little too tense for him to have been in the know all along.

Danny turns to him and smiles nicely - his teeth are also way too sharp for a human - before shaking his head, "No, sorry, I was just dropping Tim off."

"For God's sake," Tim rolls his eyes, "Just put on some pants and come out, I refuse to suffer through this alone."

Dick chokes on his toast. Steph gasps, her eyes snapping between Tim and Danny in delight. Cass snorts and kicks her under the table. Damian groans.

"Spare me from the details of your personal life, Drake. Need I remind you that I am thirteen," he narrows his eyes.

The constellations on Danny's cheeks shine just a bit brighter, and Bruce has no idea what that is supposed to mean, but his guess is along the lines of embarrassment. Especially when the boy completes it with rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly.

"You mean to tell me that, at thirteen years old, you don't know what sex is?" Tim deadpans, running a hand through his hair in a useless effort to smooth it and taking his seat at the table. Dick's coughing fit comes back with renewed force.

"We didn't-" Danny starts, still kind of hovering midway through the portal, but Damian pays him little attention.

"I do. Yet, I prefer my mind free of the knowledge when it applies to you."

"I want all the details, though," Steph pipes up, looking at Danny from her seat, "Can you, like, sprout tentacles or something, because I know for a fact Tim likes that kind of-"

"Steph!" Tim yells at her, face red, and then turns to Danny, who suddenly has a very interested, if a bit mischievous, look on his face, "Don't you dare."

"Yeah, okay," Danny snorts and disappears back in the portal. Bruce half-expects it to close after him, but the vortex stays.

Which probably means the boy - the King of Infinite Realms, Keeper of Unseen Worlds, Eyes of the Universe - is going to be right back.

After he puts on some pants, supposedly.

Bruce watches Tim rub his face in frustration while Steph giggles and elbows him in the side, and sighs. This is so not how he expected this morning to be.

[dclovesdanny]

Dead on Main

4/5

Jason had always loved the drawings littering his arms. As soon as he knew how to write and had markers, he would write notes to his soulmate. He knew Danny like the back of his hand. Danny was the first person he said good morning too and the last person he said good night too.

He barely managed to scribble out a message to Danny before he died, apologizing.(He prayed Danny forgave him for leaving him alone.)

After Jason was resurrected, he didn’t know what to say to Danny. Danny still wrote on his arms, and Jason would be lying he said he didn’t look over those notes and feel tempted to write back. But Danny deserved better than what Jason could give him.

(the only person Jason ever showed the notes to was Damian. He would let the little Demon trace over them silently as he explained. He knew the league’s policy on soulmates was not kind. He hoped Talia would be kinder to the kid)

Then the writing started getting sloppier. The notes became those of a vigilante, the one thing he had hoped his soulmate wouldn’t have to be. Jason wasn’t supposed to leave the League. Jason should be working towards his revenge on The Joker, his plans for Gotham.

But then Danny wrote about Vlad. About the creepy guy that made his insides crawl and Jason couldn’t keep himself from clenching his teeth.(all of the trainees got used to Jason having some days where he was worse than others. Sometimes, the pit would rage inside of him at the thought of Lasters, but oddly enough messages from Danny seemed to ground him and make it harder for the Pit to control him)(maybe that’s why the league didn’t approve of soulmates.)

It was when the writings stopped that Jason really got worried and started preparing to leave. Talya caught him quickly, but was surprisingly willing to let him go. Her only request was that He took Damien with him. (Sometimes, he noticed how Talia wore the same sleeves that he did. He wondered sometimes if Talia only pretended not to have a soulmate.)

The last message that he got from Danny was the one that made him leave three weeks earlier than planned, with a demon child to his back, and guns ready to fire.

I never expected to be a teen dad. I’m kind of scared, but like hell I’m letting the fruit loop raise these kids.

I wish you were raising them with me.

[yuvany]

HEART SHAPED EYES

꒰ 𝐄𝐍𝐇𝐘𝐏𝐄𝐍 when they're caught admiring you ꒱

OT7 ENHYPEN x f ! reader CONTENT / WARNING(S) fluff WORD COUNT : 976 CHECK BOX !!

don't forget to reblog or like if you liked this !

𝗟𝗘𝗘 𝗛𝗘𝗘𝗦𝗘𝗨𝗡𝗚

"You look like a fool, Heeseung." His friend, Riki commented with a cackle and cheeky grin. "You don't get it, you're too young." Heeseung snaps back, his eyes still trailing your figure as you walk around the library with your friends whilst looking at books, giggling amongst yourselves. "If you really love her, just go and confess." Heeseung shakes his head with a click of his tounge. "I can't." "Then don't stare at her like you two are already together." Riki rolls his eyes and snaps his fingers in his face to wake his friend from his trance that you had unintentionally set him under. "I'm not staring!" He calls out, a bit too loud, accidentally making you and your friends' heads turn to him.

𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗞 𝗝𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗦𝗘𝗢𝗡𝗚

He had stayed behind after their training session to 'catch-up' on his own. The others believed him and told him goodnight before heading to their own rooms. Jay hums to himself and groove along to the songs he had been singing. Jay takes a deep breath and picks up his phone to send you a message. As he clicks the send button, he sprung up and throws his phone onto the bags for a cushioned landing before running around the studio. After calming down, he sits in front of the mirror and looks at himself before talking with himself. "y/n, you are so pretty and funny-" before he manages to finish, he hears the door creak open and Jake walks inside with a stunned face. "I heard that." "No you didn't." Jake then bursts out laughing.

𝗦𝗜𝗠 𝗝𝗔𝗘𝗬𝗨𝗡

He had created a playlist just for you, though it was more like a playlist inspired or meant for you since he never had the courage to confess his feeling. The playlist was labelled with your initial and a heart, and set on private so that no one, absolutely no one, would figure out his little secret. Jake had been playing the same playlist for what seemed to be over a week by now, but he could never get tired of it. One day though, he shared his airpod with Sunghoon. "This song is nice. What is it called?" He asked, and Jake carelessly handed his phone over to Sunghoon who looked at the screen, his eyes noticing the title of the playlist. "Am I seeing this correct?" Jake starts getting sweaty and gulps. "What?" "The name of the playlist is very...how do I say this." Jake snatches his phone back, cutting him off.

𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗞 𝗦𝗨𝗡𝗚𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗡

You had tagged along for their photoshoot to help when needed. It all seemed to go smoothly, everyone knowing what to do and the day's schedule. You had gone onto your phone, trying to find something to entertain you when Sunghoon walks up to you. He clears his throat nervously. You look up and raise an eyebrow. "Hey y/n." Sunghoon stands there awkwardly with his hands on the sides of his body. "Hi Hoon. Need something?" You ask. "Could you help me with this tie, please." He says and hands you a navy and white striped tie. "Of course." You smile, and stand up from your seat. As you tie it around his neck, his eyes are glued to your face and slowly trail down to your lips. Of course Jake had to bump into his shoulder just then and give him a smirk.

𝗞𝗜𝗠 𝗦𝗨𝗡𝗢𝗢

Everyone was gathered behind the scene, you as their special guest and vip to be able to support them from behind the stage. Everyone poses at the sound of their manager counting down and then the camera snaps. The two youngest run over and inspect the photo closely before calling the rest over as well. You take a quick glance at it and approve of it. "Could you send it to me later, please?" You ask, and they nod. You then take a look at the time and say farewell because you need to be part of the crowd, and they let you go after handshakes and hugs. "Sunoo, look here." Riki taps Sunoo on the shoulder and points to him in the photo where he is looking at something. "What is it?" Sunoo asks, and Jungwon who at first was confused finally seemed to connect the dots and balled up in laughter. Riki's pointer travles to where Sunoo's eyes are, and they led to you.

𝗬𝗔𝗡𝗚 𝗝𝗨𝗡𝗚𝗪𝗢𝗡

"You're doing it again." Sunoo sighs from beside him. Jungwon looks at him puzzled and then turn around again, trying to remember what he was doing. "Doing what?" He asks. Sunoo diverts his eyes over to you before looking at him again. When Jungwon doesn't get it, Sunoo repeats it again, but a lot faster and aggrevated. Sunoo sighs before leaning over to whisper to Jungwon, "You've been staring at her for a while. Again." When Sunoo parts he sees that Jungwon's eyes have been connected with you again. "So?" He asks. "So...it's creepy." Sunoo wrinkles his forehead in confusion and looks inbetween you and Jungwon before groaning and giving up.

𝗡𝗜𝗦𝗛𝗜𝗠𝗨𝗥𝗔 𝗥𝗜𝗞𝗜

When rehearsing, Riki finds himself turing to you for feedback and opinions even though he is a lot more of an exppert when it comes to dancing than you. "It literally looks perfect, not sure what input I should make?" You comment, shifting your weight from one leg to another as you speak with him, your eyes shifting around the room's ceiling. "Really? Thanks." He says and spins around, letting you be for a while. As he is faced away from you, he has a grin on his face. The rest of his group members stare at him with wide eyes as they look around to see if anyone else was seeing what they were seeing. "What?" Riki hisses after noticing. "You're lovetsruck and it shows bro."

[landoughnut]

Dream Girl

♡ masterlist - request!

♡ pairing - lando norris x fem!reader

♡ summary - when being interviewed, the conversation gets on the topic of you, lando's long term obsession crush, never in a million years did he think you would actually notice him

♡ warnings - obsessed/simp lando

♡ w/c & a/n - 0.85k | I hope you all are doing good! as usual send any requests xoxo

"Good afternoon, Lando! We're happy to have you here with us today," the interviewer smiles, sat across from the driver.

"Great to be here," he nods, putting his hands on his lap and leaning back into the chair, "Wow, nice chairs you've got here."

The interviewer laughs, "Glad you approve of them. So, let's get started with the questions, shall we?" Lando nods and the lady clears her throat, "First off, when racing at the high speeds you do, what are some things you're thinking about? Or maybe I should say, a someone?"

Let's rewind. If there was one thing, besides being a Formula 1 driver, that everyone knew Lando Norris for, it was having the world's most massive crush on you. In fact, pretty much everyone was aware of this; except for you.

You wouldn't call yourself oblivious, per se. You just weren't really one to be online, so you never saw all the drama surrounding Lando's infatuation with you.

He has been enamored with you for about three years now, and he made it everyone's problem. From liking instagram updates of you, to commenting on pictures and videos of you, to even reposting edits of you. His friends must have sat through hours and hours of hearing him just speak about your beauty and personality.

His friends teased him about it quite often, though he was never really embarrassed over it. He truly just found everything about you beautiful, you were his dream girl, everything he'd ever want in a woman.

"Well, uh, I think about, you know, winning. Also what I'm going to eat after, and uh.. my girl," he nods with a slight grin.

The interviewer raises her eyebrows, "I wasn't informed you finally got a girlfriend," she says, surprised.

He laughs and shakes his head, "No, no. She's not my girlfriend... yet. Although I'm not even sure if she knows that I exist, but I'm working on it."

"Ah, I should have known," the lady smiles at his flustered state, "I wish you luck with that. Now I believe we should move onto the more important questions, before I get in trouble," she taps on her clipboard.

The rest of the interview seemed like forever for Lando, now that he was thinking about you again, as he usually is.

You're in your bed, watching one of your favorite shows, How I Met Your Mother, when your phone starts to blow up with your friends messaging you and sending you a link to a YouTube video of some F1 interview.

You open the video is none other than the very cute, Lando Norris. Of course you knew who he was, you kept up with Formula 1 on your free time and enjoyed watching the races.

As the video is playing through, you open the comments and your eye go wide at everyone saying your name and commenting on how hot of a couple you two would make. You furrow your eyebrows at some comments talking about how devoted to you he must be for liking you for several years without a single interaction.

You continue to watch the video and your cheeks turn pink as he talks about, well you. You couldn't believe that he liked you like that, surely you were well-known, and you weren't too bad looking, but one of the best current racers in the world crushing on you?

After the video ended you messaged your best friend back, asking what you should do. She, of course, told you to message him on instagram.

You thought over the idea for a bit, before nervously clicking on his account and following him back before beginning to type.

Lando was hanging out with Oscar around the garage when he hears his phone ping with a notification. He glances at it and turns his phone off again before doing a double check to make sure he saw it right. You had followed him.

"OSCAR," he yells and turns to his friend, holding the phone in his face, "SHE FOLLOWED ME, LOOK," he waves the phone.

Oscars jaw drops, never did he see this day coming, "Wow! Mate, thats fantastic, and look! It seems like she just sent you a message!"

"What? I might faint, Oscar," the boys hands shake with excitement and nerves as he clicks on your message. "Hi! I saw your interview, and I must say, I'm truly flattered," Lando reads as his face turns dark pink, he didn't think you'd see it, guess he was wrong.

Oscar starts laughing, "Text her back!"

"I don't know what to say, I've never spoken to her in my life," he panics.

"Mate, she saw you call her your girl, it's a bit too late to be nervous," Oscar smiles, patting his friend's pack. Lando chews his lip and writes back, heart pounding.

After a few messages were exchanged and an anticipated Oscar waiting for an update clears his throat, Lando looks up from the phone with the brightest smile Oscar has ever seen on him, "Guess who scored himself a date with his future wife this Saturday?"