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artificialqueens · 5 years ago

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learning to be silent (multi) — chapter one - Roza

[ summary ] : figure skating is a tough sport and the reality of the situation is beginning to hit the fan for all the skaters: old and new as grand prix qualifications begin and winter olympic prep is upon them, some crack under the pressure while some are simply happy to be living their passion in full throttle. ( figure skating au )

[ author's note ] : this is a figure skating au and not a yoi au btw!!! I think the show is great, this is just its own original thing and has nothing to do with the show, hope y'all enjoy and the world and tags will definitely grow as chapters progress, have to give a shout-out to @freykitten on tumblr who really helped me develop some good concepts !! enjoy xx — lily.

AO3 / My Tumblr / (*˘︶˘*).｡*♡

— ✧*。

"Again!"

Shea shook her head, feeling a deep sense of disbelief run through her veins as she adjusted the sleeves of her jacket as she pulled down her black leggings to her Edea skates, making sure to hit her leg and have it tightly fit, her and Trinity consistently argued on the ice, even in competition season, if pulling your leggings down to your skates really have you the look and attraction of longer legs.

Her skate's lifted off the ice as she circled around the center of the rink, unable to focus with Grand Prix qualifications starting soon, she had qualified her way through which with American skating being so overcrowded and packed with talent, wasn't easy.

"Don't get in your head girl, you have to be in France next week." Trinity spoke up from the sides of the rink, leaning against Detox who stood with her arms crossed, rubbing her partner's shoulders even though she wore Detox's own lavendar jacket with her initials engraved that Alaska had bought her when they made it to the senior team. "Shea, don't be so tense just wait until the Olympic qualifications in a few months for that, stop stressing!"

The Chicago native gave a thumbs up to indicate she was listening but truthfully, how could she? Internationaux de France this year was a complete madhouse and was considered the blood bath qualifying round of the season. That damn paper had so many suprisingly good rookies and seasoned professionals it physically made Shea sink into their break room couch when she found out on the livestream her and Trixie watched from their training rink.

Internationaux de France Entries (Ladies) :

—

Australia: Courtney Act

Canada: Brook Lynn Hytes

China: Yuhua Hamasaki

Norway: Thorgy Galligan

Russia: Jinkx Monsoon, Sasha Velour

Spain: Shuga Cain

USA: Shea Couleé, Aquaria Coady, Adore Delano

—

"Shea, get into position, please." Bob spoke up, her coach spoke up as she got back to her spot near the rink, watching closely though the frustration building on her skater's face was visible as can be and she bitterly groaned, "Yes, I know, got it!"

Bob frowned seeing Shea so abrasive, it wasn't like her to lash out even in small doses unless someone really was pissing her off and deserved it or she was stressed: Bob knew it was the latter and didn't take it too personal considering what an athletic ball of energy she was when she was still a competitive skater.

"Play!" She instructed to Detox who nodded and pressed play on the phone, already hooked up to the rink's speakers and ready to use.

Shea had begged, had pleaded, had absolutely driven Bob to madness since her junior years to finally use Moulin Rouge as her long program music, her short program was strong as is but they always stuck a bit more traditional in that route but the long program was completely and utterly her own choice of style and music, as long as her coach approved which she luckily, finally did.

"Bitch, I always wanted to do Sparkling Diamonds, this ain't fair!" Trinity moaned about as Detox snickered, holding her hand as they stood watching intently. Trinity trained with Bob since her junior years but Detox was simply here for support and a visit, the American skaters usually mixed and mingled with eachother's rinks, not too serious when competition was overwhelming.

Shea breathed in deeply, a cross across her chest before she felt the music in her, she knew the song for years and years, as if she didn't completely obsess over the musical when she was a teenager, it seemed to come truly full circle once her competition dress had been designed and sent to her: it was stunning, completely stoned with crystals as most dresses were and had impeccable craftsmanship, short sleeved and looked just like a reimagining of Madonna's iconic "Material Girl" outfit which is what Shea was going for.

Pink, White and Iridescent shimmers, it definitely helped her gain some momentum with the song.

Being a senior for over five years had taught her a lot, she had won two international competitions, won over ten national ones and somehow managed to beat Katya Zamolodchikova, Russia's IT girl for a silver medal in Worlds though it was now retiree and coach, Morgan McMichaels who took gold, her biggest achievement since she hadn't qualified for the Olympics yet.

Her main goal of the season was to finally get that damn quad down, all the Russian juniors could do it yet eighty percent of all Senior skaters couldn't, it was both incredible and terrifying.

Some of the girls she knew personally in good and in bad ways, she loved Adore and knew Bianca was always a coach to take in advice from, Aquaria was just entering her first season as a senior but everyone had known her for years, she was Sharon's daughter after all and Sharon Coady was the absolute beacon of hope when it came to coaches, she was the coach international girl's wanted.

Courtney and Brooke were all business and bustling with talent though Courtney had a reputation in the sport as someone who couldn't keep a secret or go one competition without complaining about bias judging, Brooke was simply serious and didn't like to speak too much in interviews and kept to herself which Shea could respect.

Sasha she knew of extremely well. She was stunning, Shea was jealous of how one girl could possibly be so damn beautiful and intelligent. She had been watching her in senior competition's since she became a part of the Russian senior team at 16, she could do just about every trick in the book but everyone watched her for her style and how beautifully she portrayed a story on ice. She was the one to beat along with Katya (who was always fiercely competition) and almost all the Russian girls.

Focusing on her triple axel she skated forward waiting for the cue of the music, attempting to stay completely engulfed in character before slamming her toe pick and jumping, rotating and landing backwards as she glided, arms open. Judging by Trinity's loud scream she either did incredible or underrotated it yet again.

She finished on a high note with claps from Detox and Trinity, Bob gesturing her over as she skated towards the wall of the ice rink, "So was it great or just good again?" She managed to ask before Bob snickered, nodding, "You were great in technique, which is good, but now I'm worried you aren't giving enough of yourself in the story, the character, I'm just surprised because that's usually what you do best."

It was very true and blunt, Shea wasn't known for the cleanest and prettiest lutz or axel jumps (hey, she still did them!) but she racked up presentation points like absolutely nobody's business.

"Well shit." The reply came before she apologized for cursing, it still felt weird even though she was an adult to curse in front of her coach, she truthfully felt like a junior again. "Take ten minutes and then I want to run both back to back, I need you to realize how different your music is and how to get into character." Bob walking off to go and get some hot tea, offering Detox who politely declined to jump onto the ice over the wall, yelling.

Trinity shook her head as she took of a sip of her iced tea bottle, walking over to Shea once she put her skate guards on, touching her friend's hands with their gloves still on, Shea only did it for costume purposes but Florida born and raised Trinity wasn't too keen yet on the cold, any costume she could wear gloves with she completely gushed over just because it was more warm.

"You're gonna do absolutely amazing, you know I'm coming to France already, I finished my competition and now I need you to beat my score and continue the journey to the Grand Prix."

Trinity had skated a week prior in Skate Canada, she placed fifth which wasn't what ideally she hoped for, the minimum score for qualification was 142.5 in Ladies Single skating and she had managed a 179.9 but she had taken a nasty fall in her short and did not recover too well after that but she still had a chance, a tiny, itty bitty chance though she simply moved on from it the day after once she cried into Alaska's shoulder for a straight hour knowing her chances were completely diminished.

"Focus on the Olympics, that's where it matters."

Detox skated around, aimlessly, doing a scratch spin in the center of the ice before letting herself sit completely wide open on the floor, the ice was nice and clean and private, the price you paid for that was worth it to have time without other skaters. "So, have you heard about Katya?"

"Heard what?"

"She quit on her coach, she's moving to Trixie's training camp over in Michigan, she got so aggravated finally that she literally up and left."

Shea gasped, impressed it took that long, she knew it was bound to happen she had heard multiple stories of how awful Russian skaters were treated by the large and in charge coaches, subjected to extremely harsh diets, training constantly, the media ate it up even if it was unfortunately true in some circumstances.

"So that means she's with Chad now?"

Detox nodded, Chad was a coach legend, he coached some of the best including Bob, Bianca and Morgan though their relationship got extremely tense and messy once the Scottish skater, now coach, blamed her career ending injury on Chad, who now would only beat herself up over the damn thing.

"That's good, I think he needs someone just as ambitious and witty as Morgan on her grounds again."

"We'll see, I think she'll crack under the new expectations and routine."

*.✧

Katya slammed the door of her St. Petersburg condo and cursed, wanting to burst into tears, unable to take any of it anymore. She had been living here for almost four years after Lobnya and opened her eyes and extra room to Sasha, a sweet and endearing girl who had since become her younger sister figure, she didn't have a wonderful support system so the older skater took it upon herself to make sure she was taken care of though she was soon to relocate alone and closer to the rink.

Sasha was never an issue, she was perfect, an angel, she was never ever yelled at in camp or at training, she was known as "Саша, дорогая" ( Sasha, darling ) for a damn reason, she did everything with no complaints yet was selfless and always stuck up for her fellow skaters who were ill, younger, struggling.

"What's wrong?" She asked with her nose in her textbooks, Sasha was still determined to finish her schooling one day though it probably wouldn't come soon with her fame and success.

"I quit."

Instantly her book was shut and the blonde looked up, her thick hair parting in front of her face as she nervously questioned what exactly that response exactly meant, "What— what, do you mean by that?" .

"I called him a fucking pig in front of the seniors, I threw my gold medal at him and then took my skates off and left, I called someone who had been interested in me for years to coach me and she immediately offered me a yes and it includes housing, I'm moving to America to train."

Sasha's entire face bleached white, she had no one else she was close to besides Jinkx who was always with another coach than she was and it was unsettling to think about the scene and commotion she must have caused and how it reflected on Sasha who they all called her darling "sister". Katya's hands anxiously ran down her arms, "I can't do this anymore Sasha, I'm turning to drugs again and I can't do that during competition season, I promised I'd be sober to and fuck!" She yelled, throwing her skates across the room as she stared at her own reflection in the large glass panel windows that adorned her comfortable living room, a view of the city perfectly placed.

The other blonde reached out to touch her shoulders and give her a soothing hug, knowing the extent of her history with issues like drugs and alcohol and knowing she was better than this, than to train in America. "Katya, Let's talk, please..." yet she was stopped with a firm slap on her wrist.

"Я не хочу с тобой разговаривать!" She screamed at Sasha, eyes completely ablaze with frustration, the younger skater quickly froze and closed her eyes, breathing slowly and took it in, she wasn't sensitive to someone screaming, she was just surprised Katya had finally reached such a breaking point she managed to yell at her own sister. Katya quickly snapped from her complete alternative reality and groaned at herself, "Sashi, I'm so sorry." She whispered before taking the younger girl in her arms who's eyes were puffing and red, sniffles once her face hit the Russian's national team jacket.

"I didn't mean to scream at you, I'm so sorry." Her apology soft as her fingers ran through the blonde's hair who cried on her chest, mumbling how awful it would be in Russia without her everyday which Katya responded with a firm, "But Sashi, we will always have camps and competitions and off seasons."

"Are you coming to France?"

What a stupid question.

"Of course I am, Sashi, nothing is going to change between us, I'm simply taking my training somewhere else and changing my coach. I still represent and compete for Russia!" She laughed while hugging her closest friend and roomie.

Sasha nodded and let go of her grasp before clearing her throat, "Good, I want to win extremely bad." Katya scoffed, "You act as if any of those other girls even have a chance against you." The younger girl felt her face light up as she clutched her phone close to her chest, "Well actually, there is one American skater who is really, really great and she's so beautiful to..." Katya nervously snapping at her face, "Don't let me lose you to a crush on an American skater, who even is it?"

"It's Shea, the same one who got second at World's three years ago."

The memory definitely stung hard, Katya had never wanted so badly to be top of the podium especially since it was Morgan's last skate before unexpected retirement. Shea was extremely hard working and talented but she was still competition and shouldn't pose Sasha a threat judging by their pure program components.

"Jesus Christ, out of every girl you're going to crush on it has to be her?"

Sasha moaned In disbelief at her response, "Crush?! She is simply competition and I admit her style, she's extremely beautiful and I will respect her from a distance." That sounded like a promise but something in the Russian's heart raced at the programs she had already done and that were uploaded to various social media's, she never took time to really know most other skaters but followed her on Instagram, not expecting much of a response back but instead she indeed returned the follow, there was at the very least a small respect for eachother hidden under all the competition.

"You keep on telling yourself that, now help me pack, I'm flying out in two days."

*.✧

Stress wasn't exactly the first word that Aquaria had hoped would come to mind when thinking about her first senior competition but how could it possibly not, now it was a completely ballgame and she had nothing but experienced and fierce competition, Adore being there with her made a bit less worried with press and interviews even if her own mother was coming since she was her coach, of course.

Her "mom" of over seven years had vied for her to finally become a senior and represent America after she permanently moved from Milan, passion blazing and talent endless. Sharon was beyond happy to have her newfound "daughter" with her at every corner though she still had other skater's to focus on but it was definitely difficult to not put blantant favoritism towards your own daughter, let's be completely honest.

"You ready for France?" Alaska asked the younger girl as she tightly pulled on her skate's laces, Aquaria shook her head, pulling her platinum hair into a high ponytail so the strands of hair would be away from her face while she trained, pulling her leggings over her skates as she responded with a nervously riddled, "Not really, I have some really huge competition and I don't know if I'm exactly up to the level yet, no matter what she has to say." Referring to Sharon who always placed her cards down for Aquaria to succeed and she dominated the junior level for a long time but now it was serious and where it counted, her entire career started here.

Alaska wrapped an arm around her shoulders and nodded, remembering the days of her first starting qualifications at the senior level, she had still an extremely controversial skating style and range of music, she never liked the classical music done over and over again. She'd rather skate to Stevie Nicks than to fucking Carmen for the fifth time straight like some of her competitors. Adore Delano was the same way and it made for them to become great friends, even if it felt as if they were intentionally underscored for their taste in genres.

"Well, your style is beautiful and the judges will appreciate it, make it to the damn Grand Prix girl!" Slapping her shoulders she helped the shorter and younger girl from the bench as she walked by Sharon, her black skate guards over the blade as she leaned into the crook of her neck, "Does it feel weird to see how far she's come?" The whisper making the coach jump a bit but she chuckled in response.

"It is, this is how life works though, I'm just hoping it's a good first impression for her, she deserves it."

Alaska took her hand and smiled, "You worry too fucking much." She mumbled, Sharon kissing her hand and tightly keeping the hold of her fingertips, interlocking them as she continued on with Aquaria who had been staring at them and smiling to herself, she always understood the extent of their "friendship" as Sharon put it though she wasn't an idiot: kissing her hand constantly, holding her waist, being extra touchy during training and ice time, showing up to practices and competitions with well covered bruises and hickey's.

"Alright, play!" She yelled to Latrice who gave a smile and nodded, letting the phone begin it's track as Aquaria molded into starting position, center of the ice as always.

Her program was a difficult one, in terms of components she had the most though Sasha Velour, her biggest competition, still had more quad's and bigger points to rack up though Aquaria was attempting a quad lutz finally out of the harness, if she was going to win she needed to atleast begin measuring up to her Russian competitors who always seemed an entire staircase above the rest of the skaters when it came to jumps and tricks though Aquaria wasn't sure she would ever sacrifice her sanity for a medal.

Sharon had brainstormed with her at home, on the counter nonetheless what the theme of her program should be, she said it was always the most important thing to consider because it helped with performance. Alaska had unsuprisingly chosen Rebellion and Aquaria went with Dreams, an odd choice but she liked the concepts and her songs.

Short program to Oh So Quiet by Björk, Long program was a medley they put together for Tchaikovsky's Sleeping Beauty, trying to make it cohesive and Aquaria certainly liked the mix. Her original plan was to do some songs from Chicago but Alaska begged her not to so they could do it for the exhibition gala's together claiming they'd look basic but amazing.

The key to a good performance truthfully was just embodying the song, the skating and skill would follow that but if you couldn't even get the message or portrayal of the song what was the point, certain skaters would utterly destroy the others in technical score and fall flat on performance, on the look and energy.

Sharon breathed deeply seeing Aquaria stumble just a bit on the opening jump, "Arms straight out!" She yelled as the blonde adjusted, performing a layback spin and turning on her skate with the back outside edge and slamming her toe pick into the ice before performing her quad lutz with success, smiling in pure delusional happiness hearing Alaska utterly scream in support before she tuned her out and continued the program, trying not to let it get to her head when she still had other elements to perform.

The end was always the hardest, to maintain momentum and wrap the program up in a gift wrapped present with the bow on top, this song luckily was a fun one and had a lot of indication in the beats placed on the music where to hit certain poses, positions and when to jump.

Finishing with a clean salchow and camel spin, ending in the center where she started though she finished on her knees, it wasn't the most pleasant but it got the feeling of the song she wanted so it was her artistic direction for this one and not Sharon's.

"Yes!" Sharon yelled laughing clapping, Alaska cheered on her teammate with pride and joy, "So fucking good." She groaned before attempting to run with skates on to choke Aquaria in a tight hug, Sharon joining in on the hug, feeling pride though she had her stumbles and her edges could definitely be improved but she had the charisma, the jumps, even got the quad she wanted.

"The edges are a bit rough but we can work on that, I'm so proud." Sharon breathed on her neck as they embraced as a mother and daughter pair did, Alaska rolled her eyes, she knew it was Sharon's damn job to nitpick every small thing in her programs however, especially since this was Aquaria and someone she took care of personally: she wanted to do the best she possibly could with the competition that laid ahead.

"Now get off, Alaska and I have to work since she's been a lazy bitch."

Aquaria didn't complain at the chance to take a break, get water and unlace her skates, quickly getting off the ice as Alaska hopped on, circling the ice rink as she hummed, running movements in her head. Alaska had drawn the Rostelecom Cup and was beyond glad that Detox had as well so she couldn't feel as alone propped in her hotel room.

"Latrice please!" Sharon yelled at the girl who gave a nod before pressing play again, this time Sharon was on the ice so she could help Alaska out more with tracking the number, she looked to be marking it constantly and that was worrysome enough.

"Are you following me because you're so in love with me you simply can't stay away?" A kiss pressed to her lips, hands on her cheeks while Aquaria was turned away, Sharon licked her lips and laughed, "Wish it was, you just aren't skating very great right now."

Alaska was taken back just a bit but shook it off, knowing how much belief Sharon had in her to succeed even with her odd music choices, she was a performer and she averaged a bronze medal almost every competition, it was still atleast some kind of money, achievement and medal. They had known eachother since their childhood in Pennsylvania. Sharon might have been about four years older and a coach now but that didn't mean Alaska still didn't mind on reminiscing the days they both skated together on Chad's team of established skaters.

"Wait until my costume, I'll be completely galvanized and in perfect character." She promised with a sly wink before stretching out her arms and going in the center, Aquaria watching with curiousity. She always enjoyed Alaska's blantant disregard for what the judges wanted in her music and skating, claiming she was too athletic which Alaska called out as bullshit, they just didn't like she wasn't a pretty ice princess doing Don Quixote or Schindler's List and actually had variety in genre.

The ISU still approved all her music programs for competitions which was all she cared about. Sharon fought diplomatically as she could when it came to Coaches and Media bashing Alaska's skating.

I'll win a medal and then you'll finally be proud of me.

#rpdr fanfiction #sashea #detox x trinity #shalaska #sasha velour #shea coulee #trinity taylor #sharon needles #alaska thunderfuck #bob the drag queen #aquaria #katya zamolodchikova #lesbian au #figure skating au #learning to be silent #roza #concrit welcome #detox icunt

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all-of-the-imagines-for-eve · 6 years ago

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Awkward ~ Embry Call

A/n: I love this one, it makes imprinting feel so natural aw :’) Unfortunately because there's so much information already given to this character I decided to just make her an OC. Too much I had to apply to her to make this an x reader :/

Additionally: Should I make a part two? If it's not requested I won't do it but I could if y'all really wanted me to. Okay peace out ✌🏼

Word Count: 4215

Warnings: Angst. A lot of angst. Some fluff too :) You know the regular stuff.

Faceclaim: Michelle Rodriguez

MASTERLIST

As long as Embry Call and Quil Ateara had been friends, Quil's sister Nina and Embry had been an interesting pair. Quil thought his sister endlessly annoying and often attempted to exclude her from anything and everything they did together. The problem was, she was stubborn and often liked to do things just to because she was told not to- especially if it meant annoying her brother. They were twins, similar in looks and family but also in personality. The Ateara twins were both loud mouthed and goofy and playfully aggressive- they'd been rough housing and arm wrestling and shoving and tripping each other so often for so long that even before they were wolves everyone used to joke they were like playful pups rolling around in the dirt. Embry got along with both of them and Quil hated it.

People always joked that Nina and Embry would grow up and get married but neither had even considered it in a serious way. Not even dating or kissing or even crushing on each other. The two just clicked, friendly and familiar right off the bat. When Quil was absent at school, in a bad mood, sick, or otherwise busy, Embry spent the time with Nina. The one time they'd both been unavailable had been such a sucky, boring day that Embry was glad he had Nina as a back up for Quil's off days.

There were little moments, though. Tiny things that threw them off of the casual friendship they both secretly held so dear.

One example was when they were thirteen. Nina had been asked to a dance so she'd gotten all dolled up and waited outside her house for the boy's mom to pick him up. Except he never came. Quil finally came outside and told her to come in. It was Embry who had been able to convince her though. The boys paused their hang out that night to cheer her up, Em and Nina cuddling on the couch as Quil was unavailable while he made snacks and picked the perfect movie. When it was time for bed Nina had fallen asleep so Embry decided ti just sleep with her since she was on top of him and Quil shrugged and walked away.

Another example, when they were ten, was when Embry was riding his bike and hit a rock, scraping the crap out his knees and hands. Quil complained loudly while Nina jumped into action immediately, smoothing Embry's hair out if his face to make sure he was okay, kissing him on the cheek like her mom did to her when she needed comfort. Embry found jumself blushing at the contact, not sure if the reaction was from her kiss or the adrenaline rushing through his system. She then proceeded to patch him up with the home made first aid kid she had packed in her backpack when they had headed off. She let him grab her arm as she cleaned out the scraped, shooting him apologetic, soft expressions every time he hissed when it stung a little too much. She had been so gentle and caring and attentive that even at such a young age, he watched her for a few seconds after she finished. She was so familiar and comforting... That held up years after.

When they were fourteen, Embry's girlfriend broke up with him because she was moving and they didn't want to date over s long distance. Embry had been distraught and only Nina had been able to calm him down and bring him comfort. She was with him every step of the way as he came to terms with losing her and moving on. It was easier than he had expected it to be with Nina around. With Nina's smile, that reminded him of sunlight, and Nina's laugh that sounded like home.

When they turned sixteen Embry had pretended to be Nina's boyfriend to make an annoying boy with a huge crush on Nina go away. It had almost been too easy but when the boy left, deterred, and Quil had spent the rest of the day groaning and whining about how weird and gross it was and how they'd ruined his birthday (he'd mostly been joking- he just thought the idea of his best friend and his sister dating was majorly weird), they'd brushed off the sparks and tingles and the thread that seemed to pull them towards each other again and again.

Later that year though, Embry would get sick. Nina would be by his side, mothering him just like she always was. His mom didn't need the help but she let Nina in every day after school anyway because despite what the two kids believed, there were some things moms knew that kids didn't and this was one of those things. Nina and Ms. Call would make him soup and the trio would watch movies, often joined by Quil as well. Quil came less and less though, slowly coming ti terms with the same realization that Embry's mom had had. Nina would bring Embry his homework and they did it together. Nine would play with his hair to make his headaches go away and take his temperature and far too often have to change the wet rags she gave him to put on his skin to try and cool down his ridiculous temperature. He always refused to go to the hospital and Nina and his mom didn't force it because any doctor would he as boggled by the numbers as they were. Despite the heaviness of feeling so helpless, Nina was there every step of the way...

Until she wasn't anymore.

Embry played no games. First it was his mom telling her she couldn't come in. Sam Uley had come over the night before and now he had come back and Embry and him had been out all day. He was better but Sam had been very strict about him having no visitors until they were sure. After a few days of Embry going completely AWOL even with Quil and Jake - no calls or visits or letters or texts; NOTHING - Quil went over. He came back saying that Embry didn't want to hang out with them anymore.

"He looked me right in the eyes and said he didn't want to be friends anymore." He looked at Jake and Nina. "With any of us." After extensive questioning from the other two he finally admitted, "He was different. He'd cut his hair off, super short, and he was taller. Like way taller. I don't know it looked like'd he'd been working out- and- and he had some sort of tattoo..."

The trio was silent for a second but they all knew what had happened. It had happened before. "Sam," Jake seethed. That was the only clarification anyone needed.

And so there was three.

Working together they managed to eradicate Embry from their memories, banding together to close their wounds with force and put on smiles and keep going with the same ease their ex friend seemed to be using. They were doing very well, even when things got more serious between Jake and Bella. They became a quad again, Bella slipping into Embry's place even if she didn't even begin to fill it the same way.

Then Jake got sick.

He seemed the same kind of sick Embry had been but they all brushed it off and Nina showed up to take care of him, Quil accompanying him this time. Jake swore again and again that it wasn't like what it had been with Embry. He wasn't going anywhere near Sam Uley and his gang. Ever. Just as they were assured, Sam paid Jake a visit. First no visits, then no calls. Then dodging and lying and avoiding until Nina pulled Quil to her one day, needing his comfort. Suddenly Bella was gone too and it went from four to three to four again, straight down to two. The twins were distraught for weeks, but they always took comfort in each other.

And then Quil got sick.

Nina was silent as death as she took care of him. They exchanged no words about it ever, not trying to make jokes as the very real fear sat forever present in the house. It was the exact same sickness Jake and Embry had both had. The fever was unmistakable.

When Sam Uley came to visit, Nina refused to let him in. "Nina you need to let me in."

"NO!"

A sigh. "Nina please, there are things you don't unders-"

The door flew open and Sam stepped back, startled by the fire and ice swirling in her eyes as she experienced wrath and agony at the same time. "You've taken EVERYONE FROM ME!" Her face was so twisted that Sam didn't even try to stop her, knowing she needed to get it out. "You took E-" She still couldn't say his name. She whimpered, blinking and then skipping the rest of te letters. Sam's face softened, only sorrow manifesting. "You took Jake, and Bella. You can't take Quil from me! HE'S ALL I HAVE! I WON'T LET YOU!" He stepped forward, placing a hand on her shoulder. She blinked and her tears began falling. "Please," she croaked, her voice hoarse and weak and cracking with emotion. "Please don't take him away too."

Sam was truly regretful. "I'm sorry Nina. It's not something I can control." And then he brushed past her into the house and while she waited outside, frozen and terrified as there was conversation inside that she could not hear. Her mother was at work so she was alone when Sam returned outside after a long time to see her in the exact place and position he had left her. "I'll be back tomorrow."

"I'm sure you will," Nina seethed. Sam sighed before leaving.

Nine was gone when he came the next day and she avoided Quil for a while, eyes still hopeful even though she was terrified to see him and know for sure. When she ran into him as she was headed in and he was headed out, she froze. They locked eyes and she took in his sheered hair and exposed torso. He was taller and leaner, more muscular. He had a tattoo ok his shoulder and her eyes watered. "Nina-" he began. She pushed passed him into the house, desperate to avoid whatever he had to say to her in excuse or reason or apology.

And so she was alone.

She stayed alone for a long time. She watched her brother and friends get along just fine without her, bonding with Jared Cameron and Paul Uley, forever under Sam's rule. She saw them at school and at parties and at the beach. It was too painful so she started to avoid them. If she wasn't hidden in the confines of her house she was hiking or sitting on the beach. She had taken drawing up as a hobby and though she wasn't great at it at first she picked it up pretty well. She became quiet, wearing grey and black hoodies to blend into the background. Quiet and invisible. The boys wouldn't admit it but they could always see her and every time their gazes landed on her, they each grew silent and somber.

Nina was quiet and lonely and a cliche edgy art kid now, but her grades kept up. It kept her busy while she drifted through an otherwise empty schedule. She couldn't go to parties and she didn't have friends so she turned to homework to eat up her time. For a long time it was like that.

Then Victoria made the newborns.

Nina missed a day of school due to a fever. And then another. She got suspended after getting in a fight with a kid in the hallway who had pushed her a little too far and the entire week she was gone she spent attached to her bed. She wasn't sick really. She was angry and incredibly hot- like her blood had turned to fire. Her mom was worried about it and when Quil asked what was going on and she told him, he recognized the symptoms and went to Sam immediately, filled with hope. Just like he always did, Sam went to the Ateara house one night to visit Nina. This visit didn't go anything like his other ones had, though.

He came to her house to see her outside, in a tank too and shorts, her hair tied in a bun as she closed her eyes, feeling the cool night on her skin as she tried to cool down. Sam sighed, approaching her. He didn't get a single word in before she sneered, "Leave."

Sam rose an eyebrow. "Nina-"

Her eyes flew open. "No." Her voice was so hard and cold that the Alpha felt threatened. He could see the aggression and the heat in her and he wanted to help. But she had known she was coming and she blatantly refused. "NO." She moved from her post on the balcony to right in front of him and he solidified his stance to seem bigger, stronger. But she had grown taller too, stronger. And she wasn't backing down. "You-" she began. Her breath came harsher, faster, and she blinked as her vision flickered oddly, the coloring different than she had ever seen the world before. "You have taken everyone," she began again, softer as she trued to compose herself. "You don't het me. You don't get to steal from me and shut me out and hurt me and then add me to your ranks." She blinked as her chest constricted and Sam reached out for her. The second his hand brushed against her skin she growled. Growled. But she was suddenly far too angry to care about that. "NO! You! YOU! You and Quil and Jacob and- and-" Her face hardened. "And Embry. You are not my family anymore! You don't get the right to worry or care about me! ANY OF YOU!" she screamed, the words garbling into something that sounded like snarls and growls more than actual human speech.

Suddenly there were people running to Sam's aid from the woods as Nina shoved him, wanting to start a fight Sam refused to engage in. Nina hunched over, eyeing the new threats. She was beginning to become more a caged animal than anything. Sam held up a hand. "Everyone back and calm down!"

That almost worked. "GOD!" Nina barked. "You follow his every word don't you? You little puppy dogs."

Paul stepped forward. "You don't know anything about us."

Nina's face twisted even more. "YOU don't know anything about ME." Her voice was low and dangerous.

Her eyes leveled on Sam and she took a step forward only to immediately be intercepted by someone. Quil. He pushed her back and began, "Nina no!" But then push set her off and she was suddenly coiling and twisting, her anger exploding as her skin itself seemed to lose purchase and slip and slide and stretch, her bones morphing into a new form. She hunched forward, her hands hitting the ground as- as paws.

Her confusion and hurt and anger changed from her new form to Sam again. She was blinded by hate and pain and all she could think was that she wanted nothing more than to tear Sam Uley to shreds. The boys turned and Nina growled as she faced down the five wolves. She would take all of them, looking them straight in the eye to communicate her vehement hatred without using the words that escaped her outside of her human form. Then her eyes met a familiar pair.

Somehow she knew it was Embry.

The world, already discolored and different, shifted and they both froze, eyes widening. There was suddenly a chord between them that tied them together, thick and undeniable. Impossible to ignore and hard to resist as it shortened, demanding them to be pulled closer.

Hearing Embry's thoughts and seeing Nina's shift, the other wolves backing off to give the two some room. Embry stumbled forward as if he was pushed but Nina collapsed in the spot she was in, her different eyes closing tightly as she hung her head. He was immediately by her side, nudging her and whining to make sure sue was okay.

Nina? Nina what's going on in that brain of yours. Please let me hear you Nina.

Hearing his voice after so long was terrible and wonderful at such intense levels that she recoiled from him. On top of that, hearing it in her head? Hearing it like she was peeking into his thoughts?

She couldn't handle it. She stood up on all fours and stumbled away from him. Her eyes were wide and her thoughts were scrambled and loud and chaotic, becoming even worse as they realized she could hear them now that she was initiated into the pack when she'd imprinted on Embry, even if she had resisted it at first. It was too much for her though and she howled, the others cringing away from her as her thoughts became hysterical bloody murder screams. She turned and ran.

After they got over the stunned shock they ran after her, causing her to run faster.

Nina stop!

Slow down!

Wait!

LEAVE ME ALONE!

They pulled back and left her alone as she asked. The further she got from them, the more it hurt her and Embry both.

She ran all night, only showing up back at the house in the morning, still in wolf form. Quil came our of their house with a folded up outfit in his hands. He offered them to her awkwardly, unsure where to go from there. She looked between him and the pile before he sighed, jogging towards the woods. She followed him, not looking over as she padded along his side. He lead her a ways in before setting the pile on the ground and then turning around and jogging back to the house. They didn't need to speak for her to know the plan he had in mind. She shifted back to human - something she'd had to work on for quite a while the previous night - and then got dressed, joining Quil back at the house. She still didn't look at him, going to pass him. He caught her arm and she went stiff. "Let. Go of me."

Quil did as she asked, deflating. "Nina-"

"No," she snapped.

Her brother watched her continue, attempting to go inside. "Sam's holding a meeting tonight. You're part of the pack. We have answers and I'm sure you have questions. Please, come?" She paused at the door. "We can be together again. You, me, Jake. Embry." She flinched at the last name as if Quil had burned her. He frowned, seeing his sister so upset. He had always been able to help her when she was upset. But she had never been this messed up and she had never shut him out so aggressively. "Please," Quil begged, his voice only a whisper.

Nina didn't look at him. "The length of my hair. Is that why you guys keep it short?" After a second, Quil hummed in confirmation. She went inside without another word and Quil sat in the steps, closing his eyes and lacing his fingers into his hair in frustration. She came out again a few minutes later but she only brushed past him, ignoring him despite him shooting to his feet and reaching out to her.

Hurt and worried and completely unsure of what to do next, Quil just headed to Sam's.

Night came and hours passed with no sign of Nina. Just as they were about to call it a loss, they all tensed as a familiar smell hit their noses. Quil and Embry were scrambling to the front door before Nina even got close enough to knock. They were surprised by the state she was in.

She seemed firmer, her eyes dark and hard and her hair cut short like Leah's, maybe a little shorter- where Leah had first cut it, maybe. She had worn it very long since the beginning of time, whining and complaining every second of even the monthly trim her mom took her to. She HATED to have her hair cut. She hated having it shorter than to her waist, loving to brush it and do it in all kinds of fun hairdo's. Now it was too short to do anything with.

She brushed past the two boys without acknowledging them except when she paused a split second when Embry's fingers brushed her arm. It was obvious she wanted to cave in and have him touch her again but she swallowed it, forcing herself to keep walking and hardening her expression. Embry and Quil followed after her. She stopped in the middle of the room, across from Sam. The two boys continued past her to Sam's side, Embry taking another chance to touch her arm as if it had been on accident. They both knew it wasn't. Sam faced her. "Quil said you had answers."

Sam nodded. "What do you know?"

"The legends are true," she stated simply. "We're shape shifters. Werewolves. Skin walkers- whatever. The Cold Ones...?"

"Vampires," Sam supplied.

Nina nodded, her face not changing. She was unreadable and even Jacob was struggling with how different she was than how he knew her to be. "Vampires and werewolves," she mused quietly. Sam nodded. "Why did I... change?"

"When more of them come, more of us awaken to combat them." When she didn't speak again, he continued. "Bella Swan. The Cullens are vampires." Nina nodded. "Newborns, new vampires, are hunting Bella down. We're not sure why yet. Bella has a thing with Edward Cullen so we're working with them to protect her." Nina rose an eyebrow but she didn't have to voice her confusion for Sam to add, "The Cullens don't eat people. As long as they feed off if animals as they promised, we don't come for them. We have a treaty."

Nina nodded again, pausing. "Am I still mortal?"

Sam softened a little as her voice became less cold. "Yes. We're still susceptible to injury and death, though we do heal VERY quickly. We can't undo what's been done and as long as you continuously shift, you don't age. If you stop shifting then you can become normal, aging and everything."

That seemed to make Nina relax a little. "And it's a choice to change? No full moon chaos?" Sam nodded. Nina's eyes shifted to Embry and her stony expression gave way to fear. "What happened?"

She hadn't meant to say it out loud but now that she had, she looked back at Sam, vulnerable. He didn't have to ask what she meant. "You imprinted on each other," he told her. She seemed confused. "It's when we find our.... other half. Soulmate is the best word we've found so far. You find someone that completes you in some way and you strive to give them anything and everything they need. A brother, a friend, a protector-"

"A lover?" Nina asked. It had slipped again and Quil coughed. She blushed.

Despite himself, Sam smiled. "A lover," he confirmed.

There was a pause as Nina looked away. She nodded once more and then turned toward the door to leave. "WAIT!" Embry called. She stopped. "Stay? Please?" She didn't respond. "I know... I know we have a lot to work out. But- please? I can't lose you again. Please."

She turned to face him, her eyes sad. "You left."

"I didn't have a choice," Embry agonized. "You can ask anyone, I've been miserable. I was so excited when we found out- maybe even more so than Quil, who was torn because he didn't want you to be like us. But I knew, I knew you'd be the most badass wolf and I've been dying to see you again." He took a step closer to her, his hands reaching for hers. She watched his fingers, now facing him even if she didn't move past that. "I wanted it to be you," he whispered. "And it is. It was always you. Please stay." Their eyes met and Nina actually managed a smile.

A sudden loud, obnoxious groan came from someone. Everyone looked over to see Quil pretending to gag. "GREAT!" he complained. "They imprinted on each other. Now I'll have to deal with the sappy thoughts while we're wolfed out. And the kissing." He rolled his eyes, his nose scrunching up.

The mood shifted instantly, Jake shoving Quil joking. "You're just jealous."

"Am not!" Quil argued. "I'm disgusted- big difference."

Nina moved to Embry's side, taking his hand shyly. They both smiled, finally standing in peace as they were finally reunited. Everyone knew where life would lead for the two, even if they didn't know the little details. Even fate knew that they were destined to fall in love. It felt so right that for a second, the time alone faded away and nothing mattered- not pain or regret or vampires or fear or danger or the chaos and danger facing. Not even Quil's loud, annoying complaints and jabs and fake gags.

Even if it would make things a little awkward...

FTL: @chipster-21 @bitchyseawitch @alexa-playafricabytoto @wolfgirlxslytherin @justanotherdaydreamersoul

#embry call #quil ateara #twilight #new moon #eclipse #kiowa gordan #breaking dawn #wolf pack #embry call imagine #twilight imagine #wolf pack imagine #embry call x OC #wolf pacl x OC #kiowa gordon imagine #kiowa gordon x OC

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cerulean8looded · 5 years ago

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Hello, what are some interesting rarepairs you think exist in any quadrant?

AAAAAAAAAAA THANK YOU ANON I LOVE TALKING ABOUT RAREPAIRS

HorKri: Good in every quadrant, I have a penchant for pitch. 1: Blue x Red is always great. 2. Their personalities are so similar yet so different in all the right ways. Their outlooks are totally different, but they also have so much in common and GOD can you imagine the paragraphs that Kankri would come up with yelling at Horuss?

MeuJake: Pale specifically. 1. Green babes. 2. They both have the vibes of someone who would live in a small cottage in the middle of the woods. 3. Meulin isn't all that clingy and get intensity is in specific things, so Jake wouldn't have such an issue with feeling suffocated. He'd decide to leave every so often to clear his head, Meulin wouldn't mind and would probably just hot box the house while he's gone.

KurTula: Really dig it flush and pale, but it works pitch too. 1. They already have to spend time together since they both date Mituna so it's easy to see how they could get together. Also I like poly ships a lot, so this doesn't interfere with their relationships to him. 2. They're both chill but in totally different ways, and have intense sides in also totally different ways, which I find very appealing. 3. Honestly, the aesthetic just works so well. They look so good together. What, am I supposed to NOT be obsessed with them?

SolNep: Every quadrant works! 1. They just vibe together. They're both fucking feral in different, complementary ways, and I think Nepeta should become a gamer so they can play together. 2. They just fit, I can't even put it into words properly. They just make sense.

VrisKat: Every! Quadrant! All at once! 1. Their canon flirting was ADORABLE I don't care if it was supposed to be jokes. My shipname for them will always be sweetheart because of it. Literally just read this page. She's so in hate with him, and the red/black vacillation potential is HUGE. 2. They piss each other off so perfectly!!! Read the page!!!! The pitch aspect is just sooo good. 3. Karkat KNOWS she can be better. Vriska KNOWS Karkat can be better. Now if they can just force each other to do it, they'll be in love forever.

DamLoz: Every quad, but I like flush the most. 1. The aesthetics are immaculate. Japanese schoolgirl and this fuckass in a skeleton top, booty shorts and juggalo makeup? Fantastic vibes. I want them to be e-thots together. 2. Forgive my language but they are fucking sexy and they would be the best fucking power couple.3. Damara just deserves a guy with some loyalty and Kurloz is loyal as hell.

CroJane: Fluuuuush. Pitch and pale are cool too, but god, flush. 1. Jane does not get complimented. Y'all remember when Dave called her John's hot mom and she absolutely lost her mind over it? Imagine meeting Cronus. YES, he's weird and inappropriate. But if he sees her responding to genuine compliments, he's going to give her more of them. 2. Again, aesthetics. They look so good together. 3. I just want them to be happy, dammit. They would be happy together.

MeuCro: Pale specifically. 1. Look, Cronus is on that simp shit. He manages to land a girl like Meulin? He'll be cleaning his act up in a second. The threat of losing her would change him on the spot. 2. I wholeheartedly believe that he would listen to her when she criticises him. I really think he'd take her advice and try to do better. 3. He would do anything for her in a heartbeat. He would dedicate his fucking life to it. Again, he be on that simp shit. 4. I like to imagine that he'd change his whole vibe overday. Greaser -> softboy, speedrun.

TavKri: Pitch pitch piiiiitch. Easily summarised as: Kankri cancels Tavros for saying slurs (which he can reclaim) and Tavros cancels him back 10x harder through rapping a full album. I didn't expect to love it, but I do.

#whoops this got long #tyz talkz

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365daysofsasuhina · 6 years ago

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[ 365 Days of SasuHina || Day Two: Candy Apple Red ] [ Uchiha Sasuke, Hyūga Hinata, Uzumaki Naruto, Haruno Sakura ] [ SasuHina, NaruSaku ] [ Verse: A Light Amongst Shadows ] [ AO3 Link ]

“How did I let you talk me into this again…?”

Hinata just giggles into a yukata sleeve. “To be fair, you didn’t really put up much of a fight. I just asked! And then you scoffed...and said you guessed you could go with me.” Pale eyes close as she beams up at him. “You know, despite your answer...you really don’t seem t-that unhappy about being here, Sasuke-kun.”

“Tch…” Glancing aside with closed eyes of his own, the younger Uchiha brother manages to quell the urge to smile. “I suppose you make it tolerable.”

Looking both superbly pleased and coyly knowing, Hinata just continues down the aisle of festival stalls. Both hands cling loosely to a small bag she’s keeping her spending money in, looking over the attractions mildly. Sasuke, on the other hand, keeps his hands in his sleeves with crossed arms, his own expression more haughty than curious.

At least they haven’t run into -

“Oi, teme!”

...damn it.

Hinata turns to look first, perking up as she spots the other duo. “Naruto-kun! Sakura-chan!”

The blond and rosette approach with matching smiles. “Konbanwa, Hinata-chan!” Sakura chirps in reply. Jades give Sasuke a teasing glance, daring to poke his arm with a slender finger. “Looks like you got the troll out of his cave, eh?”

He just gives his ex-teammate a halfhearted glare.

“It’s good for you to get out sometimes, teme!” Naruto agrees, hands on his hips.

“I get out plenty. It’s called work.”

“And work isn’t the only thing you should get out of the house for,” Sakura rebukes, her own arms folding with a curt nod. “You need to socialize! Have a little fun!”

“I do plenty of that at home, with my family.”

“I mean besides them!”

Naruto can’t help a chuckle. “That niece’n’nephew a’yours are sure cute! They’re, what...two now? Three?”

“Nearly three.” There’s a slight puff of pride to Sasuke’s chest and his tone of voice. “They’re growing fast.”

An elbow digs lightly into his ribs, Naruto’s blond brows wiggling. “Think they need a couple’a cousins?”

“I’m not even married,” Sasuke deadpans.

“Well, neither was -”

“Those were entirely different circumstances,” is the cut in reply, clearly hackled at the topic. “I’d rather do things a bit more...stably. If I do so at all.”

Pale eyes glance to him from their corners, fingers fidgeting a bit.

“Yeah, yeah...I was just kiddin’, teme! No need to get all defensive!”

“Why don’t you two go try a game? Isn’t that why you’re here?”

“Heh, I’ll duel ya! Whoever wins our gal a prize first, wins!”

“Tch, you wouldn’t stand a chance.”

“Try me!”

Sakura heaves a heavy sigh. “Does everything have to be a competition with you two…?”

“What else are rivals for?” Naruto crows, tugging Sasuke along despite his clearly-disgruntled expression. “C’mon, we’ll do the dart throwing one!”

“Says the dobe who was always dead last in shuriken practice.”

Watching them go, Hinata smiles warmly, expression not unnoticed by Sakura.

“So,” she muses, giving the Hyūga a look to rival her boyfriend’s to Sasuke. “What is going on with you two, eh?”

Pale cheeks dust pink. “W...what do you mean?”

“You know what I mean! How serious are things with him?”

The pink goes darker. “T-that’s -!”

Sakura laughs. “Kidding, kidding! I won’t butt in!” Her wide grin slowly sobers. “...I’m just glad to see him look happy for once. At least,” she laughs, “before we showed up.”

“Oh, he wasn’t -”

A wave of a hand stills her to silence. “It’s no secret things are still a little...touchy between us all,” the medic admits. “And...well, none of us can be blamed. A lot’s changed since we were genin. And though there’s been improvement...it can’t be expected to heal that fast. But at least he’s doing better. A lot of that is thanks to you.”

“Oh, I don’t know about that…” Hinata replies, looking sheepish. “I just...you know…”

“Don’t sell yourself short! He’s tempered a lot since getting to know you better. You’re good for him.” A pause. “...better than I’d have ever been.”

Feeling a little awkward, Hinata’s head ducks slightly. “I...I guess we were all just...c-chasing after the wrong person, weren’t we?”

Hearing Naruto groan loudly in defeat, Sakura can’t help a snort. “...I guess we were.”

It’s then the boys return, Naruto empty-handed and Sasuke handing Hinata a small plush cat of lilac fabric. “It looked like your color.”

“Thank you! It’s so cute…”

Sakura folds her arms, looking critically to her boyfriend. “So, your loss is mine too, eh?”

“S-sorry, Sakura-chan…”

Jades roll in their sockets, gently punching his shoulder. “You can buy me dinner instead.”

“Speaking of, should we all get s-something to eat?” Hinata suggests, plush hugged to her chest.

“Sure!” Apparently already over his melancholy, Naruto points. “Something smelled really good down that way before we found you guys!”

“We technically already ate,” Sasuke admits.

“Well, we can get some dessert instead!”

Lips purse ever so slightly. “...I don’t like sweets…”

Outvoted, Sasuke follows as the rest make their way toward the food stalls. While Sakura and Naruto peruse more meal-like options, Hinata oggles some sugary confections with starry eyes. Eventually she settles on a candied apple. “At least it has some fruit...right?”

Sasuke just snorts. “Whatever makes you feel better.”

“Hey, I haven’t baked anything all week!” she sniffs in reply. “I deserve it.”

“I couldn’t agree more.”

They wander a bit as she nibbles, the other couple ahead and discussing what attraction to try next. Blinking owlishly, Sasuke gives his date a checking glance. Though not yet finished, her lips are dyed a bright red from her treat.

The corner of his own flicker. “...you’ve got a little something there.”

“Eh?”

Ducking around in front of her, Sasuke murmurs, “...here,” before giving her a chaste kiss.

Stiffening with a small sound of surprise, Hinata has no time to react before he pulls away. “W-what -?”

He just smirks at her, tongue roving over his own mouth and clearing up syrup. “You’ve got sugar all over your lips.”

“...b-but you said you don’t like sweets!”

“Some are...tolerable,” he replies evasively. There’s another lean, brushing her brow to his and feeling the heat of her blush. “...I like you, after all. Doesn’t get much sweeter than that.”

Completely at a loss, Hinata flounders like a fish out of water as he straightens, back to looking nonchalant.

It’s then the other pair look back, hesitating at her expression. “...Hinata-chan?” Naruto asks. “You feelin’ okay?”

“F...fine,” is her mumbled reply, head ducking as Sakura just smiles coyly.

“Don’t worry about it, Naruto,” she advises, urging him back around. “Let’s go get ready for the fireworks, okay?”

Still flustered, Hinata looks to her apple before taking another bite.

Maybe she’ll get another kiss...

Woo, day two! And just before midnight, ahaha! Had a long day afk so no time to write until now, whoops! This prompt stumped me for a bit before I finally got this lil idea! I thought it was pretty cute~ And a little NaruSaku was thrown in to help balance it out. I always write that ship as a companion to SasuHina. I think they make a better quad that way! I'm a sucker for writing festival settings - there's a lot of possibilities for little cute moments...like this one! Sasuke claims he isn't a fan, but...he'll indulge Hinata to make her happy. And he can still enjoy himself in other ways, huehue~ Anyway, that's it for today! Hope y'all enjoyed, and I'll see you tomorrow! Thanks, as always, for reading!

#uchiha sasuke #hyūga hinata #uzumaki naruto #haruno sakura #sasuhina #narusaku #a light amongst shadows [ canon verse ]#365daysofsasuhina

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zazzyzoo · 6 years ago

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Cookin' with wrestlers! How do we feel about wrestling factions, you guys? Are they a good thing or a bad thing? My brother can't stand 'em. I don't mind factions, per se, but I hate how they distract from individual guys' identities. Would we care about the Elite as much if we didn't have the benefit of BTE to spotlight each person's unique personality? I'm not sure we would.

And then there's the nWo, the poster child for everything wrong with factions. I mean, who wasn't in the nWo? If you think really hard, you can probably remember joining it yourself. Seriously, 100% of humanity was at some point part of the original, Hollywood, Wolfpac, Elite, 2000, bWo, jWo, lWo, or nWWEo. I'm a Nash fangirl, so I ran with the Wolfpac, myself.

But hey, the nWo isn't all bad, of course, despite what the snarling smarks of the World Wide Web would have you believe. After all, don't we all love a "cool heel"? Like Kevin Nash, for instance. Stop squirming, you Nash-haters! I see you in the back row, whipping up fresh quad memes as you suppress malicious cackles! Y'all just wish you were him. You wish you were 7 feet tall! You wish you had the longest world title reign of the '90s to your credit! You wish you could make yourself a bowl of nWoutstanding Chorizo Dip!

Oh wait... you CAN! Now this is a flavor faction anyone can get behind. Spicy, but not coo-coo spicy; simple and cheap; and, quite frankly, crazy-delicious. If you need something a little different to make for your guests during this season of visiting and entertaining, this recipe is perfect. Miss Josefina Montoya oversaw Kevin Nash as he used one of her favorite Mexican ingredients. But of course, it takes tWo -- he had help from another cool heel, Alexa Bliss!

1/2 lb chorizo (ground, not links)

3/4 cup diced onions

One 4-oz. can green chiles, drained

1/2 cup milk

1 tbsp butter or margarine (Heels use the latter)

1/2 tbsp corn starch

1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Heat up a large skillet over medium. Brown the chorizo for about 10 minutes, adding the onions and chiles about halfway through cooking.

Meanwhile, heat the milk, butter, and corn starch in a small saucepan, stirring frequently. Once steaming, add the cheese and stir until melted. If done before the chorizo (which it probably will be), set aside and stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.

When the chorizo is done, drain off the excess grease. Put the chorizo in a medium bowl and add the cheese sauce. Stir until blended. Serve with tortilla chips. Delicioso!

Whoa now, what's going on? Jay Briscoe is here, and it doesn't look like he wants to try any dip!

He grabbed one of Alexa's pigtails. Having a limited moveset, all Nash could do was watch helplessly.

Jay swung his fist, but Alexa managed to dodge it in time, and...

LOW BLOW!! LOW BLOW!!

Lawdy! This feud is out of control! Jay lurched over in agony, as Alexa scuttled away with her bodyguard.

I haven't seen this kind of fury from Jay since his feud with Adam Cole. I won't transcribe what he shouted at Alexa as she walked away. Frankly, I'm not sure what some of it even meant, and I'm afraid to Google it.

#recipe #alexa bliss #kevin nash #jay briscoe #josefina montoya #wwe #nwo #nxt uk #nwo wolfpac #chorizo #mexican food #ring of honor #roh #american girl #american girl dolls #dips #dip recipes

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my-one-love-is-music · 6 years ago

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Be My Player 2? Ch. 26

Sorry for the delay in posting, y'all. This chapter has been ready for a few days, but I didn't have a chance to post it over the weekend.

Also on AO3!

“Keith!”

He looked up and found Hunk barreling towards him. Keith grinned and accepted the hug from his friend. “Hey,” he said.

“It’s been so long since we’ve gotten to hang out.”

“I know,” Keith sighed. “I was hoping to spend more time with you guys over break, but…”

“Nah, don’t worry about it. Pidge and I had our own stuff going on, too. We went and visited our families and I’m sure you spent some more time with Shiro,” he said with a smirk.

Keith flushed and tugged at the edges of his beanie, his breath fogging in front of him in the cold air. “Yeah…”

They pushed through the doors of their academic building and Keith sighed happily at the warmth.

“What’s that look for?” Hunk asked, pulled him from his thoughts.

“What?” Keith asked.

“That smile,” he said. “You look happy about something.”

Keith bit his lip and stuffed his hands in his pockets despite being out of the cold.

“Keithhhhhh?” Hunk asked, elbowing him in the arm.

“Shiro and I…”

“Yeah?”

“We told each other that we love each other.”

Hunk gasped and grinned. He pulled Keith into a rough hug. “That’s amazing! I’m so happy for you guys!”

Keith grinned and nodded. “I know. Never thought I’d see the day.”

“This is huge, man. Pidge is going to be so excited.”

“I’m going to be so excited about what?”

They turned and found Pidge grinning behind them. She pulled her hat off her head and shook out her hair.

“I saw you guys and thought I’d stop by and catch up before class,” she said, walking over to them. “Had to sprint across the quad to make it, but what’s it really matter anyway, right? So what’s up?”

“Keith and Shiro said their ‘I love yous,’” Hunk explained.

“That’s great!” she exclaimed, looking up at Keith. “And perfect since you’ll be seeing him again over spring break,” she added with a smirk.

“I know,” he said. “I’m really looking forward to it.”

“You’re going to have to buy plane tickets soon though, aren’t you?” she asked.

Keith nodded. “Yeah, I should probably take care of that this weekend. Amidst the new round of shifts and homework that I’m going to get this week.” He sighed.

“But it’s your last semester. Just remember that,” Hunk said, patting him on the back. “We can have stressed, job hunting parties where we order pizza and do drunk job applications.”

Keith chuckled. “That doesn’t sound too bad.”

“You can invite the boyfriend, too,” Pidge added. “He can join us over Skype.”

“Sure,” Keith said. “When are you guys free next? We should get started on this as soon as possible.”

Hunk hummed. “Are you good for Friday in two weeks? We could do then.”

Keith furrowed his brow, trying to think over his schedule. “I need to double-cheek my schedule, but I think I should be okay. Once we get our schedules worked out, I can ask Shiro. He should be good for whenever we decide to do it.”

“Cool,” Pidge said with a grin. “We’re all in charge of bringing a bottle of the strongest stuff you want. You can go for whisky, vodka, tequila, I don’t care which. And then we’ll split the cost of the pizza. Keith you can crash on the couch after.”

Keith nodded. “If the night goes how I think it’s going to go, I’m going to need it.”

“Great!” Pidge said. “I gotta get to class. I’ll see you guys later.”

“See you,” Hunk and Keith said. They waved her off as she hurried down the hallway. Keith and Hunk turned to the stairwell and started climbing. When they reached the second floor, Hunk broke off and Keith continued to the third floor where his class was.

Keith pulled out his phone, weaving expertly around other people in the hallway as he approached his classroom. He typed out a quick message to Shiro, smile pulling at his lips even though he hadn’t sent it yet.

Keith: So…in a couple weeks Pidge and Hunk and I are planning to have a night in where we get drunk and submit job applications and wanted to know if you wanted to join us?

He pushed open the door to his classroom and made for his seat in the back. Shiro’s reply came before he managed to sit down.

Shiro: How exactly am I supposed to join you? Fly up there? I wouldn’t mind taking a vacation after the first two weeks of classes.

Keith rolled his eyes.

Keith: You’re not allowed to skip class and come up here. I’m talking about over Skype. We Skype you in while we work on applications.

Shiro: Ahhh, I see. Use the power of technology so it actually seems like I’m there.

Keith: Shut up, Shiro

Shiro: Love you, too, babe

Keith bit his lip, his stomach flipping happily at the words. It still didn’t seem real. And he never got tired of saying it or hearing the sentiment from Shiro. They loved each other, and it was the best thing he could ever ask for.

Shiro: I might see if Lance and Allura want to join in. We could have our party here and your party there.

Keith: Sure. The point is to get drunk and apply for jobs so Hunk and Pidge wouldn’t mind. We already wanted to have you there so it’s no problem. And I’m sure it will be a lot more fun for you so you’re not alone in your apartment.

Shiro: What time should I tell them?

Keith: We’re not sure on the exact details yet. I need to check my work schedule so we’re going to finalize the rest later

Shiro: You should just take the night off so we can definitely make it for then

Keith: Can’t. Gotta make the money. Keith: I need it for when I come see you

Shiro: Only another two months Shiro: God, I can’t wait until I get to see you again.

Keith: Me too.

The door to the classroom was pulled open and Keith looked up to find his professor striding inside.

Keith: Talk later. Prof’s here which means class.

Shiro: Have fun!

Keith grinned and tucked his phone away, pulling out his books.

Keith stared at his computer. He was in his living room with his feet propped up on the coffee table. He’d gone through to update his resume and knew he had all the right information on it, but it still didn’t feel good enough. And he hadn’t even started applying for jobs yet. Now more than ever, he wished that a job could fall from the sky and land in his lap. It would save him a lot of stress and the rejection he knew was coming.

He sighed and ran a hand down his face. “Whatever. I can worry more about this later.”

He checked the time and saw that it was getting late. He saved his resume and closed out of the document, grabbing his textbook from the coffee table. He leaned back and flipped open to the page of his assigned reading.

If he wasn’t careful, he was going to end up getting behind on his reading and schoolwork and that’s something he couldn’t afford to do. Not when he had work and job applications on the line. He’d come this far and worked his ass off, he wasn’t going to start failing classes when he was almost finished with school.

Keith sat forward, planting his feet on the floor. He rubbed at his eyes to try and clear away his exhaustion and focus on the words in front of him. School was most important, and he couldn’t let it slip, no matter what else he was worried about.

Keith yawned, covering his mouth with his hand.

“Someone looks tired.”

He looked up from the drink he was preparing and saw Kayla had slipped behind the counter without him noticing. He smiled.

“Yeah,” he sighed. “Getting back into school has hit hard and I’m trying to balance everything.”

She nodded. “Yeah, I can understand. I’ve got a load of credits this semester and I don’t think any of my professors are going to be taking things easy.”

Keith chuckled. “Yeah. Not to mention job applications.”

“Job applications?” she asked. “Are you leaving?”

“It’s my last semester so I’m going to need a real person job.”

“Oooh,” she said. “I didn’t realize you were getting ready to graduate.”

“Yeah, I’m trying not to stress too much, but I can already feel the pressure of needing to have a job lined up when I graduate.”

“Where are you looking?” she asked as she pulled out a bottle from under the counter.

Keith shrugged. “I haven’t thought about it too much. I guess I’d go somewhere down south. I want to work with a space program, but I’m not sure how easy it would be to get on with NASA.”

Kayla whistled. “Surely there are other groups down there though.”

“A few, I think,” Keith said.

“Well, I’m sure you’ll find something,” she said.

“Yeah…”

Keith stared down at his hands as he worked, keeping mostly to himself.

“You know,” Kayla said, pulling him from his thoughts. “If you needed help with the applications or finding jobs, I wouldn’t mind helping.”

Keith swallowed, grabbing the drink ticket from the server before they could even set it down. “Thanks, but I can handle it. I’m getting together with my friends in a couple weeks and we’re going to do a lot of work on applications and resumes.”

“Oh,” she said behind him. “Well if you need any help, I don’t mind, and it’ll be good experience for when I have to do it later…” she trailed of with a tight laugh.

“Yeah,” Keith said, expertly mixing the drink for the order. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

He set it on the tray with the ticket and dumped his mixers into the sink to clean.

“I can do that,” Kayla said, holding out a hand.

“Don’t worry about it. I got it, it’s fine,” Keith said, keeping his head down. He checked a sigh and was ready to kick himself. He wasn’t trying to sound like an asshole, but the turn in the conversation had made him uncomfortable and he really wanted to pull out his phone and call Shiro. He sighed and closed his eyes, slowing his movements so he didn’t splash water over the side of the sink.

He only had a few more months to go before they were going to be together again. It wasn’t that long, and they’d have plenty of fun next weekend doing job applications and getting drunk. He looked over his shoulder and saw Kayla leaning against the counter further away from him. Her arms were crossed over her chest and she was staring off to the side.

Keith almost wanted to apologize. He rinsed off his mixers and started drying them.

“Look,” he said, catching Kayla’s attention. She glanced over at him before looking away. “Sorry if I was kind of harsh, I just...I just don’t really the need the extra help is all.”

“I think I should be the one apologizing,” Kayla said. “I shouldn’t have been so pushy.”

Keith shrugged and started putting the mixer pieces away.

“I just thought it might be kind of fun to hang out outside of work.”

“Don’t take it personally,” Keith said, “but I don’t have much time to hang out with my own friends outside of work, let alone anyone else. Most of the time I actually do see them is when we run into each other on campus between classes.”

Kayla nodded. A server walked by and set down a new ticket. Kayla got to it before Keith could and he watched her work, noticing the droop to her shoulders, but if she was already making a second attempt so soon after asking him out the first time, something inside of him knew that this wouldn’t be the last time.

Keith shivered when he stepped inside his apartment. The warmth was a nice change from the freezing temperatures outside and he brushed the snow from his beanie and his jacket. Now that they were in the midst of winter, he knew it wasn’t going to be long before the inches started to accumulate, and he’d have to wade through snow to get to class and work. He toed out of his boots and left them in the entryway. He winced at how much salt and slush he was going to end up dragging inside when the weather really got bad.

He pulled out his phone and sent off a quick message to Shiro.

Keith: I’m so tired. Zzzzz I’m ready for spring break

He tossed his jacket over the back of his desk chair and set the beanie on his desk. He sighed, and landed heavily on the edge of his bad, falling back onto the mattress as sleep tugged at him. His phone vibrated, and he rolled onto his side even though his legs were still hanging over the edge of the bed.

Shiro: I’m ready for you to be here, too. I was gonna ask if you wanted to watch a show or maybe play a round of Voltron tonight, but that’s probably a hard no, isn’t it?

Keith: You have no idea. Getting back into school has been kicking my ass. Not to mention this girl at work….

Shiro: You wanna talk about it?

Keith: She’s just…she’s apparently not one to give up.

Shiro: Isn’t that a good thing?

Keith: When it comes to work? Yes. When it comes to trying to get me to go on a date with her? Hell no.

Shiro: Oh

Keith: Yeah, I told her I was seeing someone, but apparently that’s not enough. Little does she know that I have the hottest boyfriend ever waiting for me in Florida.

Shiro: Keithhhhhh

Keith grinned and chuckled.

Keith: What’s wrong, baby? Are you getting flustered?

Instead of getting a new text message, his phone started ringing. Keith grinned and answered.

“Hello?”

“You’re so mean,” Shiro groaned.

“Am I not allowed to use pet names with you now?” he asked with a laugh. His stress and exhaustion were starting to lighten slightly. He imagined that if Shiro was there with him, his responsibilities wouldn’t seem half as bad as they were.

“No…” he grumbled, sounding like he was burying his face in the pillow.

“Come on, bayyyy-beeee,” Keith cooed.

He heard a muffled noise come over the line and smiled. He closed his eyes and imagined what Shiro looked like. He imagined his cheeks were bright red and he had the bottom half of his face hidden behind a pillow while he held the phone up to his other ear.

God, he missed that man.

“Anyway,” he continued after the silence stretched between them. “How is school for you? You’re probably not having as rough a time as I am.”

“It’s not too bad,” Shiro said, voice light. Keith could see him rolling onto his back to stare up at the ceiling and smiled. “Most of the professors I have this semester have been ones I’ve had before which means less scrutiny when it comes to my arm.”

“Wait…” Keith said. “Do professors give you shit over your prosthetic?” he asked, sitting up.

“Well…I wouldn’t say they give me shit exactly…but they always kind of stare at it during the first few classes until they get used to seeing it. Sometimes they don’t even stop then,” he muttered.

Keith felt anger coil in his gut and frowned. He fell back on his bed with a huff. “When I come down there you should introduce me to anyone who’s giving you shit and I’ll kick their asses.”

“Keith, you don’t need to-“

“I’m serious, Shiro. I’ll fight them on the street. The cowards,” he growled.

Shiro laughed. “Okay, Keith,” he said, softly.

Keith huffed, his anger draining out of him. “Hey,” he said. “If I don’t have too much homework over the weekend, do you feel like gaming or watching a movie or show on Saturday? It would be pretty late, and I know it hasn’t been that long since our last one, but…”

“Sure,” Shiro said. “I’d like that. And next time we’ll have a split party where we get drunk and do job applications,” he said with a snicker.

“Ugh,” he groaned. “Don’t remind me.”

“It’ll be okay. You’re cute and smart, and companies would be stupid not to hire you. Isn’t that right, baby?”

Keith smiled and bit his lip. “We’ll have to wait and see, I guess.”

He yawned and placed a hand over his mouth.

“You should get to bed,” Shiro said. “Don’t want you to fall asleep in class and it’s getting pretty late over there.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right,” Keith said, rubbing his eye. “I’ll talk to you later, okay?”

“Sure thing. Don’t work too hard and don’t stress too much.”

Keith breathed a laugh. “Okay. Love you, Shiro.”

“I love you, too, Keith,” Shiro said, voice soft.

Keith bit his lip and pulled his phone from his ear, ending the call. He sighed and stood from his bed, grabbing his pajamas so he could change in the bathroom before bed. His dreams were probably going to be filled with images and memories of Shiro again, but he couldn’t really complain when it was just as good as reality. Even if they were separated for the moment.

If you enjoy my work, please reblog or consider buying me a ko-fi!

#sheith #voltron #molim writes #fic: player 2?#fic update

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tamararajaviforpresident-blog · 7 years ago

Note

Hi I know you're probably busy with life, school, magisteriumday and all (thanks so much for that btw) but I was wondering if you could maybe write something about the squad going to see Hamilton. If you ever have the time to do so of course. Thanks for existing and making the fandom less tiny and more awesome

I know you sent this to me weeks ago, but I was struck by inspiration last night and I really hope you like it! 😊 It's jascalronmara where everyone is alive and happy and at college and it's also on ao3 under the same title! Is It A Question Of If, Sir, Or All Of Them? "I want to see Hamilton."

"What?" Call choked, craning his neck around Jasper's hair from where he was sitting on his lap to give Aaron an are you serious right now? look. "The three of us are literally cuddling on the couch right now, and Tamara's gonna come back to our room in a few minutes, and we're all around just having a great time, and you want to bring up some dead white asshole?"

"I want to see Hamilton," Aaron repeated stubbornly. "It looks really good, and they're performing in D.C. right now, and that's not far from the Collegium, and I think you'd like it."

"Besides, the guy who wrote it, directs it, and plays Alexander Hamilton is Lin-Manuel Miranda, and he did Moana, and you can't even deny that you love that movie," Jasper interjected.

Call gasped. "Traitor!"

"Because you know I'm right." The worst part? Jasper was right. Call had insisted on Moana for Polysquad Movie Night on the magic-powered laptop (optimal for cuddling) in their Collegium quad more times then anyone could care to remember. Call certainly didn't care to recall just then, especially as Jasper's smirk rose on his face (the one Call not-so-secretly adored), and so he decided to go mysteriously deaf for a while. "At any rate, the original cast from Broadway got back together-" Aaron began.

"-and we got tickets for four, with our own box, and they have just been confirmed and billed to my trust fund, so, face it, Call, we're going," Tamara announced as she marched into their room like a beautiful badass, set her equal parts shopping and studying by the door, slipped off her Adidas, took her Ray-Bans off, and plopped onto their couch next to Aaron, who gave her a quick kiss.

"Bam!" muttered Jasper, from where he was sitting underneath Call, who was wiggling and protesting at the idea of seeing Hamilton . "That's how you do it, Queen Tam! Outgunned, outmanned-"

"-Outnumbered, outplanned! We gotta make an all-out stand! I'm a' need a right hand man!" Aaron and Tamara jumped in. "What the hell." Call stared at the three of them. "You guys are so weird."

"And that's why you love us," Aaron's entire face was lit up by his smile, as his green eyes laughed happily and his hair was mussed up by the couch. Call swallowed, suddenly aware of the fact that maybe that was a small reason why he loved his signifs and they loved him, but a much more important one was Aaron's smile, or Jasper's thoughtful brown eyes, or Tamara's beautifully perfect hair and eyebrows, and suddenly aware that of course, there was no way he could say no to them when Jasper, Tamara, and Aaron were so beautiful, so cute, and so adorably excited about Hamilton. ~~~~~~~~

Call was plunged into a world of rapping Revolutionaries, "dun dun nun dun dun, dun ni na," and " pardon me, are you Call, y'all?" in a matter of minutes. During the drive to D.C., Tamara took shotgun while Aaron drove, for the most part, and she had The Hamilton Mixtape on continual replay, because "sorry, I don't make the rules and if you haven't listened to the Broadway recording yet you don't deserve to until after we watch the show- IMMIGRANTS! WE GET THE JOB DONE!" she screeched suddenly, as the refrain for her and Jasper's favorite track played.

Aaron nearly slammed into some senior citizen's Prius.

~~~~~~~~~

The four of them collapsed onto the too-small hotel bed at one in the morning, having finally arrived in D.C. after three Hamilton Mixtape-related near-wrecks, the Ten Duel Commandments played at least five times, and all twenty-four tracks on the mixtape being played at least twice, and somehow, despite their deep-set exhaustion, managing their usual pattern (Call and Tamara, dubbed 'the small ones,' in the middle, with Jasper and Aaron curled around them, managing not to fall off the edges of the bed). Call's leg was throbbing horribly but there was no way he wanted to move, not at all, because there wasn't any force in hell or heaven that would make him be sufficiently motivated to get off the bed, not with Jasper's arms around him as he snored softly and Tamara smooshed up against him, dead to the world, and as Aaron's luminous green eyes met his gray ones, filled with the deadening tiredness that only hours of driving in the dark could bring, and then Aaron gave a half smile as they looked at each other, and that was the last thing Call remembered before fading warmly into the dark.~~~~~~~

The next afternoon, Jasper insisted on he, Call, and Aaron wearing suits "somewhat because I want us to look nice and mostly because I want your asses to look even better," and Tamara was absolutely stunning in an ivory and gold skirt and crop top, and honestly Aaron looked like he was about to cry because of how hot his signifs looked, and Jasper interceded luckily with a "it's time to go," before Aaron could ruin his on fleek eyeliner. Call couldn't help but feel the same way as he watched Tamara, Jasper, and Aaron walk somewhat ahead of him on their way to the taxi and to the theater.

~~~~~~~~~

Call hadn't expected the cacophony of people that nevertheless surrounded the theatre entrance. He could hear a large amount of off-key singing, men nearly crying at the ticket office as they begged for tickets, and, mysteriously, on one memorable occasion, a rather small child screaming "PAY YOUR FUCKING TAXES!"

Tamara nimbly lead them through the crowd (god Call was so bisexual), flashing her phone with the tickets on it to some waiter or server dude with a suit on (an usher? Is that what those were called? Call had no idea) who did some sort of little bow to her, said "This way, Miss Tamara," and lead the four of them through some sort of private door. Immediately, the crowd surged towards the door, absolutely determined to get inside one way or another, but Aaron (who was so strong and Call loved it) decisively slammed it shut. The usher lead Tamara, Jasper, Aaron and Call up a staircase (he levitated a small bit, just to help his leg, but Call didn't think that the guy noticed) (hopefully) to their box, and departed.

"I want to sit on your lap."

"Call, no."

"Call yes."

~~~~~~~~~The lights were fading, and the theater was hushing, and Call could feel Aaron nearly tremble with excitement on his left side, and Jasper looked like he was about to cry even though nothing had happened yet on his other ("I'm just a little emotional, okay?) , and suddenly the theater was black and the curtains began to open.

A single spotlight focused on Leslie Odom Jr. as the opening notes to 'Alexander Hamilton' started, and as he began with a question: "How does a bastard, orphan, son of a whore and a Scotsman-" and ended his part in the song so remorsefully and dramatically with "And I'm the damn fool who shot him!".

Call couldn't help but choke during Hercules Mulligan's introduction- "Lock up your daughters and horses!" and stare at the interactions between Hamilton and Laurens."Aaron, is it just me or is Lams a real thing? That's the ship name for it, right? Because there's no way they're straight. Aaron, LOOK AT THEM. LOOK AT MY BOYS SINGING ABOUT RAISING A GLASS TO FREEDOM! Aaron, those boys ain't straight. I should know!"

"Yes, babe, you're right, and we can discuss it later, but can we watch the show now?"

From Tamara's palpable excitement, Call could feel how much she loved ' The Schuyler Sisters' and he quickly understood why. It was stunning. Angelica was incredible- "include women in the sequel!", Call could already tell that Eliza was a cinnamon roll, and then there was Peggy.

Call thought Seabury might have been crying in the next song, and 'You'll Be Back' was hilarious.

He watched as Washington started forming his army and as Peggy danced with Laurens in the background at the end of 'Helpless.' 'Satisfied' was devastating, and Call snorted at Hamilton's little "oh shit" in the song after that.

And then Laurens shot that asshole Lee and Call pumped his fist in the air. Wow, he thought. I am really invested in this. How did this happen?

And then he thought, who cares? The French dude (Lafayette, right?) had a incredibly fast and mostly-unintelligible rap solo. Hamilton got to come back to the army. And then, the world turned upside down and the Americans won at Yorktown!

King George walked out again and then Burr and Hamilton started singing about Theodosia and Philip. Though Call figured that Burr sang about his kid and Alexander, Alexander screeched. "LOOK AT MY SON!"

Then came 'The Laurens Interlude.' And the four of them cried as Eliza read the letter, as Hercules took a sad swig of his drink, as Hamilton stared at her with a lost look for a few sad moments and finally declared: "I have so much work to do."

"This wasn't in the soundtrack," Aaron moaned softly. "Why? Why? "

And work he did, nonstop. Call realized that Hamilton's coping method was about as healthy as his own inferiority complex as a twelve year old- terrible. Yet he was still blown away by the choreography and his final defiant spitting out of "I AM NOT THROWING AWAY MY SHOT!" as a blackout dropped down like a curtain and a few moments later, the House lights turned on for intermission.

Jasper looked like he was about to smirk at Call and Aaron's red eyes as they exited the men's, but Aaron interceded. "Babe, don't start. We all know you were nearly bawling."

Jasper appeared thoroughly put out.

"And besides," Tamara announced as she walked near them. "We all know it gets worse."

"What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Call nearly shouted. ~~~~~~~~~~

After the House lights faded away and everyone in the theater was settled and ready for Act II, a purple asshole (Thomas Jefferson) came onstage and flounced around with no idea of what was going on in America. Then Hamilton absolutely destroyed him in an epic rap battle. "I think they have major sexual tension," Jasper whispered in Call's ear. "Jefferson and Hamilton were like us. Before we fell in love."

Call started coughing violently.

Then the actor who had played John Laurens ( Anthony Ramos?) was apparently also playing Phillip Hamilton in Act II, part of the family Hamilton refused to take a break for. "Wanna know what both of Andy Ramos' characters have in common?" Jasper muttered softly. "Laurens and Philip both called Alexander Hamilton 'daddy' ."

Call was choking now.

But Aaron patted his back and he somehow managed to recover as Miss Maria Reynolds walked into Hamilton's life. "Dick," he could hear Tamara mutter. "You doesn't deserve Eliza."

And indeed, Hamilton didn't. He kept paying James Reynolds, and getting into fights with Jefferson and Burr, who was now a southern-motherfucking-Democratic-Republican. And then Hamilton managed to sell the nation's capital to Jefferson in exchange for his plan getting passed, so Aaron Burr became extremely jealous.

Call watched, transfixed, as George Washington stepped down from the presidency, as King George realized somewhat how the American Constitution worked, then Hamilton basically destroyed his own party during 'The Adams Administration.' "SIT DOWN JOHN!" Jasper gleefully whispered in Call's ear.

"Honey, have I ever told you how much I love you?" Call asked him in a low tone.

"Oh, yes. Loads," said Jasper confidently.

"This is not one of those times. Please be quiet so I can watch this bloody musical that you got me hooked on, babe, in peace."

Jeffershit, Mad-as-a-hatter-son, and Aaron Chilly confronted Hamilton about him supposedly lining his and James Reynolds' pockets with the Treasury- to which Hamilton responded with "No, but I am having sex with his wife and paying Reynolds to keep his mouth shut! Here! Just so everyone knows I'M NOT embezzling, I'll write my way out and write a pamphlet about how I had an affair! Yeah. That's the only way forward. It'll be published before I even have the chance to tell Eliza, so she'll find out about it by complete strangers waving my ninety-page sex scandal at her in the streets! Nice job, Alex! You're a genius!"

At least, that was how Call understood it.

Eliza sang a devastatingly heart-breaking solo while going full pyro and burning her and Hamilton's letters. "If any of you numbskulls ever date another person without talking about it to us first, I'll burn your Collegium graduating thesises after you perfect them," murmured Tamara threateningly. Call shuddered at the thought- his was twenty pages long already and he's been procrastinating...

Call couldn't help but wonder if 'Hamilton' could get any more dramatic or sadder.

It did both, because then nineteen year old Phillip Hamilton decided to a) manage a threesome with two random women he met on the street, and b) go on a crusade for his dick of a father, throw away his shot and get shot himself by George Eacker. As 'Stay Alive (Reprise)' played, as Philip lost his count at 7, Callum was bawling. Jasper and Aaron were blubbering beside him, and Call could see unshed tears glinting in Tamara's eyes from the stage lights.

Things didn't grow any happier in 'It's Quiet Uptown,' but somehow Eliza, cinnamon roll that she was, managed to forgive Hamilton. Call knew he wouldn't've.

James Madison broke the fourth wall by not wanting to sing another sad song, and Hamilton basically, in Call's opinion, bitchslapped Burr by giving Jefferson the presidency. 'Binch, you thought?'

And Burr hated that. Call got caught up in their passive-aggressive letter-sending, only to realize that bam, it wasn't passive-aggressive anymore. It was just aggressive. 'Weehawken. Dawn. Guns. Drawn. '

Hamilton was a jerk to Eliza one last time, leaving without telling 'the best of wives and best of women' the truth, yet the song was incredibly soft and mellow compared to what came next.

A duel.

As the now horribly familiar ' one two three four five six seven eight nine' began, Call could feel himself tensing up. The entire theater was on edge, enraptured. Burr sang of his enemy, of being scared for Theodosia. He fires. Time slows down as Hamilton decides to throw away his shot, as he sees the other side. His last words quote Laurens', as Laurens' last words quote Alexander's.

Burr strikes him right between the ribs, and Alexander Hamilton dies. Call realizes that now Burr's seen as the villian in their narrative. Burr sings about how he should have known that ' The World Was Wide Enough' for both Hamilton and himself. Call's pretty positive that every single person in the theater is openly sobbing. He's not even going to try to deny it.

Aaron lived.

Alexander died.

And Eliza tells their story. She's left with Alexander's writing, his need to be remembered, and her own remarkable compassion. She becomes an abolitionist and opens an orphanage for all the bastards, orphans, and sons of whores in New York City. Tears continue to roll down Call's cheeks as the final, haunting murmur of "tiiimmme..... who lives, who dies, who tells your story?" echoes through the theater.

~~~~~~~~~~

All three of his signifs' eyes were red as they exited the theater and stepped outside, holding hands and blinking in the bright D.C. sunlight. "Let's not waste any more time," announced Jasper, drawing Tamara in for a kiss on the sidewalk. White politician passersby openly stared, but Call didn't give a crap as he thought what the hell, why not? I love you all so much, and did the same thing to Aaron.

#Magisterium #Magisterium day 2k17 #Hamilton #Callum Hunt #Aaron Stewart #Tamara Rajavi #Jasper DeWinter #jascalronmara #the silver mask

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sinbinzimms · 8 years ago

Text

The Unexpected

When Jack is released from the rehabilitation center and moves back home, Alicia isn't sure what to expect. [Things after the overdose from Alicia’s POV]

(ao3)

(quotev)

When Jack is released from the rehabilitation center and moves back home, Alicia isn't sure what to expect. Bob distances himself because he thinks that what happened is somehow his fault, even though Jack assured him that it wasn't. So Alicia does a lot of the talking when they visit him. And even when they're not visiting him, she finds that she's leading the conversations at home too.

She expects Jack to isolate himself; he's always been one to want alone time when he's upset.

She expects little outbursts, because she knows he can get overwhelmed easily in stressful situations, and the past six months have been the most stressful of his life.

She expects him to try and find something hockey-related to fill his days with, so she's unsurprised but still happy for him when he finds the pee-wee team.

What she doesn't expect is to find him in the basement more than once, settled in front of the old TV, watching home videos. There are ones of him running around barefoot outside in the summer, only three or four, squealing while Bob chases him and Alicia laughs behind the camera. She watches from the stairwell, unnoticed, as Jack slips another tape into the VCR. This time she's in front of the camera, and she remembers when Bob took the video. Jack is perched on her hip, just under a year old. There's music playing in the background, something from the eighties, and she's swaying along to it. When the chorus starts again, she has Jack's hand in her own, and she starts dancing with him. She spins, and his head is thrown back and he's laughing that little baby belly laugh that melted her heart every time she heard it. She can hear herself singing along too, and it's pitchy but she doesn't care, because Jack -- the Jack on the floor in front of her -- is humming along to the song quietly, and she feels her heart melt again. Even after all these years, he can still melt her heart, but he can also make it ache like nothing she's ever felt.

She doesn't expect him to come downstairs some mornings, still in his pajamas, with bags under his eyes and messy hair, like he's been rolling in his bed all night -- which she knows he has. Those mornings, she makes sure to clear her schedule of what she can, and make herself comfortable on the couch with a mug of tea and a book, slippered feet propped on the coffee table. She puts on some soft music, and she waits. Jack will usually root around in the pantry, pulling out a few crackers and get a glass of water, and join her on the couch. He'll stay at the opposite end of the couch, making his way slowly through his glass of water before he starts nodding off. She knows he has restless nights -- ones where, no matter what, he can't make himself fall asleep. So she puts her mug and her book down on the coffee table at her feet, and she beckons him closer. He lays his head in her lap, and she reaches for her book again. One hand combs his hair away from his face, and the other one holds the book. She hears his breathing even out, and she lets herself look at his face. She could see what the past months and even years of hockey and anxiety and medications had done to him, she could still see the little boy from those home videos, head thrown back laughing, and it gave her hope for his future.

She really doesn't expect Jack to tell them that he's decided to go to college in America, the same university that she went to. He wants to major in history, he says, and they have a hockey team there, and he's already applied and is waiting for a reply. Of course, Bob and Alicia support him, because he's found something that he's excited about, and he has a light in his eyes that they haven't seen in so long, and even though it's faint, it's still there. When he moves down to Samwell, his parents are there helping him move into a dorm. He'd been down there for a tour, but it was his first time living away from home since rehab, and they were all worried, despite Jack telling them that he was fine, he's an adult, he can handle it. Bob goes out to get some coffee, and Alicia runs to the restroom, all of them needing a break from lugging boxes to the room from the car. She comes back to the room quietly to find Jack on the bed, head in his hands, shoulders tense. She taps on the door quietly, letting him know that she's there. He doesn't acknowledge her until she pulls him into her arms. He pushes his face into her shoulder, wrapping his shaking hands around her back. She feels him breathing deeply, trying to calm himself down, and she rubs her hand across his back, the other one smoothing the hair on the back of his head. Eventually, he's breathing evenly, and Bob still isn't back. He rubs at his eyes, and assures her that he's okay, and he'll be fine, he just had to get it out of his system. She nods along, but already promises herself that she and Bob are going to make it a habit to call at least every few days.

She doesn't expect her son to have a friend called Shitty, but when they help him move into the frat house, there he is, moving in right along with him. She meets more of his teammates too, and Bob treats a few of them to lunch, on him. Alicia loves Shitty, he's funny, and he makes her son happy, and he understands Jack's situation and doesn't bother him about rumors like other guys on the team used to, and that's really all she could ask of any of Jack's friends.

She doesn't expect to be talking to the general manager for the Providence Falconers at his graduation, but she's a lovely young lady who has so much faith in Jack that he'll be good on her team, and Alicia trusts that she's right. She tells her about the graduation day traditions from her days at Samwell after the ceremony when they're all on the quad, and she watches Jack saying goodbye to his friends. She's seen such an improvement in him from the days when he started, and she's so happy for him and proud of him, but she also worries what the NHL will do to him. But when she sees him talking to Bob, and how the light is back in his eyes right before he dashes off back towards the frat house, she knows, somehow, that he'll be okay.

She doesn't expect that, on one of their Skype calls months later, he confesses two things. He confesses that he and Kenny had a fling in Juniors, and he confesses that he's been seeing one of his old teammates -- the small one, the baker, do you remember him? Alicia is over the moon, and she can tell by the light in his eyes that he's happy with Eric, and that's all she's ever really wanted for Jack. She loves Eric already, because he's sweet and she adores his accent and he makes some of the best desserts she's ever had.

She expects that Jack will get better after the overdose, but she could never have dreamt that he would be this happy, with a group of incredible friends that bring out the best in him, and a loving boyfriend who makes him happier than he's been in his life and that he's so serious about and so in love with. She didn't expect that he would be a successful NHL player after the rumors and the rehab, but he's a fan favorite and he loves his job and the guys he plays with, and he's even working on coming out to the team about him and Eric.

She didn't expect everything to be perfect for him, but somehow it is.

A/N: I don't think this is like anything I've written before? So I hope it's decent and y'all like it! This was mostly just an excuse for me to write about my Jack and Alicia post-OD headcanons in one space lmao. I imagine that in the home video they were dancing to Rick Springfield and the soft music Alicia put on in the sixth paragraph was The Goo Goo Dolls. :')

Feel free to like and reblog (both are appreciated!) or send me an ask! (I try to reply to all asks!) Please check out some of my other works!

Please note: this work can be found on other websites such as Archive of Our Own under the screen name talkingtoangxls.

Disclaimer: I do not own the characters used in this story nor the webcomic that they come from. All rights go to Ngozi. Not affiliated with Ngozi or Check, Please!.

#jack zimmermann #alicia zimmermann #omgcheckplease #omgcp #zimbits #check please fanfiction #i was literally just talking out of my ass this entire fic skdfjnjshdf #tw overdose #tw anxiety attack #angst #hurt/comfort #happy ending #check please #omg check please #fic #text #my writing #jennie jabbers

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survivor-all-stars-blog · 8 years ago

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EP 9: “I'll Be a Fucking Pawn For Y'all If It Saves My Ass" - Carson

FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK WHEN WILL THINGS ACTUALLY GO MY WAY? NEVER. :/

This sucks so much, y'all are awesome for getting Kait to her SECOND win.

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That could've been cleaner. Yikes.

This vote obviously put me in something of a weird position. I was never going to vote Kait because of our alliance. And yes, I firmly believe she'd side with me over the alleged Malay-cult. She and I have been closer than a lot of allies I've had in these games so far. We're in lockstep, we're keeping each other sane, and we're not even talking exclusively strategy. The best alliances are formed by people who like each other's outlooks and attitudes, right? That's me and Kait right now.

I was also never going to vote Jack or Lydia because of our awesome Thotse quad with Wes. And I was not likely to vote Steffen unless there was a critical mass going his way. That left us with Ruthie (immune,) Carson and Jakey (on Kabru with me.) So, shit.

Anyway, I told MJ I might try to protect Jake if I could because they both want to work together. But the momentum started swinging his way, and it became even more locked in when he started targeting Kait. His best play would've been to target Steffen or Carson, and even then I'm not sure he could've rallied the votes.

Not wanting to be totally screwed on Kabru after a blindside, I didn't really engage with Jake too much. He came to me asking me to vote with him, almost as a last resort I feel? We hadn't talked since the swap, and he only came to me at 6:30, even though I know for a fact he was talking with others throughout the day. He told me he had Ruthie, Jack and Steffen locked in. I knew the latter two just weren't true. So rather than give him false hope, I checked with the latter two that their votes hadn't changed, then told Jake the votes weren't as locked in as he thought.

And he, somewhat predictably, lost his shit. He didn't want to accept that, telling me that if I voted for him, he'd stay... that my vote was the difference maker... that I was too far up Kait's ass to see it... that I needed to grow a fucking backbone... that I'm pathetic.... that I'm terrible at the game...

Yeah, I've played enough games by now to know nothing good comes from engaging in someone who's resorting to personal shots. So I disengaged. And I think Jake may have forgotten there's a second game going on, in his blind rage? As a multiple-time pre-juror, I know for a fact that it's so not worth getting upset over. Shit happens, the game doesn't break your way. But attacking people over it accomplishes exactly nothing. From what I hear, it sounds like I got off easy too. Apparently he ripped hard into Carson, Kait, Lydia and Jack too.

I don't like when people are sore losers. I don't like when people go for personal shots in a game that's meant to be fun. But I especially don't like when people do both of the above to my friends. Fuck that noise. Any chance of me wanting to work with Jake on Kabru went out the window with that, and I'm sure he feels likewise based on that vote. If it makes sense, I might vote with him as a matter of necessity, but he's not long for this game if I have my say. Bye Felicia.

Normally I would've been more upset about the vote being delayed a few hours, but between the extenuating circumstances out of the hosts' control and the fact that Jake still would've been in the One World chat anyway, nothing noticeably changed. So, fuck it, what's two hours of waiting?

Anyway I like slither.io. It's not my best game, but I enjoy it. Can't wait to put up a high score and show Jake that he's not God's gift to competitions. "Oh mind you I’m the best competitor on this tribe. Not tooting my own horn, just looking back at past performances."??? Like, fuck you? One unnecessarily long endurance run in an early comp doesn't mean we should all just bow down to your *~clear challenge superiority~*. Different people are skilled at different things.

I'm so glad nobody responded to his diatribe in the OW chat. The last thing he needed was to be enabled. His perspective is just that – HIS perspective. It's clear he doesn't really have a grasp of how this game is playing out, or else he might not have been the one to go last night.

Gage is super duper cute! But he never responds to my messages, so I am super duper not happy about that! Like, Gage, please. C'mon, Gage. Get it together. C'mon. I sent him what I did in the adventure, and you know the response I got? It was a riveting, rambling silence. Like...? What!? Didn't Gage WIN once or something?? How did he manage that??? Did he sleepwalk there, or were the other people in the final tribal council just that bad? I am completely befuddled.

Oh MJ really just threw me under the bus eh? I can't believe I got the full Olympics experience in one night. Choke.

Oh not me getting one of the highest scores on both my tribes for a flash game!? What a foreign concept.

safe in both games, so i have time to work on RELATIONSHIPS and read my book on how to win survivor so i can win this!!!!

please help

mj and pat treating me like pawns for the adventure! love it.

ill be a fucking pawn for yall if it saves my ass but an idol or something WOULD be nice.

In other news, Jimmy is the bee's knees. Yes, he is! He is so very cool! Yes, he's hip!

me and kait on call

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i think theres an imbalance of trust between mj and i.

i trust him wholeheartedly as hes my only close ally, but he sees me as expendable from what i get from our conversations. he barely responds and i obviously seem to be of lesser priority? but idk maybe im just paranoid, but im holding on for dear life

me pressuring mj into sending his screenshots of his latest chats and seeing almost all of them are about the game! how iconic.

LISTEN I REALLY WANNA KILL THE OA TONIGHT. LIKE I WANT OWEN TO LEAVE. i'm just in this STUPID FUCKENING SPOT in the middle of jenn and jimmy and LOGI-WAN????????? IS LEAKING SHIT TO JENN THAT I WANT JENN OUT ??? OR SOME SHIT LIKE WHAT ARE YOU PLAYING AT SDGJSDKLSD; GOD.

i have more to say but i will wait for after class but i'm still like i legit don't know what i wanna do

i'm gonna need a pair of cargo shorts for all the people logi-wan thinks i have in my pockets!!!

Sorry that I've been kinda AWOL but it's because I've been feeling pretty shitty about my position in the game as a whole. I'm very lucky to have Matt in the game who is always willing to have strategic conversations that I know will provide me with a secure outlet that's not going to make my position even worse. I told him I planned on making a fake idol but idk if I'll go ahead with exposing that I have an "idol" to my tribe due to current changes in circumstances that I'll talk about later. Jakey's exposing of the tight Malaysian core alliance has made them change their tune which I'm really happy about because I'm sure I'm the target tonight (thanks Owen, you suck), but thankfully Jimmy exists and wants to work with me to pull off some move because the Malaysian's are going whack and he is thankful I saved him all that time ago back in Easter Island? I- I didn't do that much except kill my own game but thank you for willing to switch shit up!

It looks like their might be a chance I will stay tonight, however there are several different stories being played out on this tribe. Logan told me flat out it's me. However Jimmy told me Logan approached him and Jenn to vote out Gage? I don't get why when clearly Gage showed him loyalty? I'm not complaining cuz it means the vote would not be on me. But I think it's gonna be on me since Jenn reassured that it probably was. So it would come down to MJ voting with Jenn/Jimmy over Owen/Logan. Alternatively I could be a total bitch and expose a plan if I'm totally unsure what to do, or 10 minutes before tribal I could post my fake messages and idol that I found to hopefully send them into a panic and switch their votes off me and onto someone not me. It's a tough position to be in cuz I don't want to reveal I've an idol and for it to backfire somehow, but also how it may look untrustworthy to my alliance if I "had" an idol and didnt "play" it. So hmm. I'm concerned because Gage seems to be going after Logan now but is trying to get Owen? I fear this is where it could blow up. 4 of these people are going to both tribals so it's a very tricky situation. If the plan falls apart, the votes might just all fall back onto me because I'm the "easy vote". I have to see what happens and make a calculated decision before tribal that will work in my favour.

It could be game over, or game on.

So like, I want Gage to go home. He is going to both tribals like Jenn, Jimmy, and Owen. Lydia and Owen are in the minority in Game B, so I'm thinking they're going to be easy boots because Gage is close to Kait. Well, I don't want that to happen, obviously. They're both my allies. But I'm also on good terms with Jenn and Jimmy, so I don't want them to go. Kait isn't an option because Kait isn't going to both tribals, and no one wants an angry, scorned Kait in the game. That's like leaving a provoked bear in the game. No thanks! Plus I'm good with her, too. That leaves Gage, and he made it super easy for me to want him gone by not speaking to me at all, lol. I sent you the receipts of my adventure, the least you can do is respond! Rude!!! Anyways, yeah, Gage should go. Also, he is trying to target me, I guess? Which is also not cool. Good Guy Gage is going down.

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please god

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WHOA I WON THAT IMMUNITY HUH!!!!!! im honestly not that worried if we lose just bc ik i have mj ruthie and matt on my side no matter what and that would at least tie it. but basically i tried to go on call with owen and kait to smooth over some relationships... i rly intended to work with owen if he would let me but he went and told kait the one piece of information i told him which was that i heard that lydia and kait made a deal to stay.. owen u rly know how to piss me OFF huh

i had a pretty good call with kait and i hope it was enough that if mj did keep me if we lose on tribe b, she wouldn't flip her shit and come after mj. mj is literally the saving grace of my game and ill do anything for him in this game. if that means i gotta be fake with kait and pretend like i wanna smooth things over and work together then ill do that. anyway ruthie is a legend and will win this season bookmark THAT

I've been laying SUPER low. Like, I apologized to Kait and told her I was close to voting her out because she scares me as a player or whatever, but that I really wanted to work with her because we didn't get a chance to work together in Trashy, and then I also threw in how my good friend Ashley Sarah liked playing with her so much when Kait was catfishing in Canaries and hopefully we bonded a bit. SHE FREAKING TERRIFIES ME but if working with her keeps me around longer, I'm all for it. I'm not going to try to make anymore big moves for awhile because as much as I want to, I don't want to piss off the rest of the people in the tribes.

My goal now is to stay close with Steffen, Steve and keep talking to Pat because he's just so nice. He's genuinely the nicest person playing in my opinion. I'm also going to stay close to Jakey, he's my number one, and I'm going to stay close to Carson as well, and just try to stay on his good side and stuff. I don't want to take Carson to the end, there is no way. As much as I love Steffen I'd rather not take him to the end either. Jakey I could see, going all the way with but we both have to stay in order for anything like that to actually happen.

I don't know if I made the right choice in putting my foot down about voting Jimmy over Gage. Every option seems bad in my opinion, but I think I've made it pretty clear I want Gage around, just to turn my back and vote him next time... I don't know. This will probably bite me in the ass somehow, like maybe Gage is lying to me and Lydia will end up going, or idk god knows what will happen....

Nobody has really talked to me since I went to dinner at 6:30... So part of me just feels like I'm getting clocked on both tribes. Either way, I guess I'll see what happens.

I don't want this to be the end, really, and I don't know if it's smart to try and take control in a game where everything spreads like fire and is painfully obvious. I just gotta keep crossing my fingers, huH!

Time off???? from this game????? A concept! I don't know what to do with my hands.

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gage is leaving????? maybe.... even tho i'd prefer owen leaving but... everything is so risky and shaky at this point im so KJDFHJKDHS NNNNNNNNNNNNNNN

This may be my last confessional! I decided against playing the fake idol card because I didn't want it to blow up the plan currently in place. If it goes how I hope I should survive but I've still got low expectations. Secondly, I'm a bad explainer of things and I didn't want to get caught out and laughed at because I made a silly idol. It's a card I'll keep in my pocket if I survive. If not, I'll be thankful to those who tried to keep me in the game and I'll wish my allies luck in surviving. But fingers crossed and all the other stereotypical survival things to say. Lets goooooooo

I guess Gage is coming for me, so I had to switch my vote against him. If he knew how much I'd been doing to protect his ass, maybe he'd think differently.

It's a shame when people's stupid decisions prevent others from doing the right thing. Oh well! STUPID.

I had three calls the hour before tribal with Jenn, Lydia, and Owen and they were all concerned with getting Gage out, and then he gets voted out unanimously in both games. I'm glad all that time I spent trying to get him out wasn't wasted. Bye-bye, Gage! Don't target me next time, okay?

Whew I am so happy I survived but extremely sad that it came at Gage's expense. I really would've loved to work with him because he's honest, caring, charming etc. He's just a all round good guy and buddy. I'm also interested that suddenly I'm making a whole pack of new friends? Kait (although drunk) is talking to me for the first time since day 1 and secondly Owen has found his voice to chat to me! So I'm very interested to see what position this could put me in. I'm also shook that Matt thought my idol was real? I told him it was fake before I made it gdfihgkol. Maybe I should pull it out if it's convincing enough! Also I'm surprised Lydia came to me and goes "you're welcome". Um. I'm not sure you swung the vote on my tribe to Gage considering there was talk of it being him at lunchtime today? Like. I'm crediting Jenn and Jimmy for that one so sorry this isn't Port Royal and I'm a different player. Just cuz I'm in a shitty position doesn't mean I'm not beginning around for whatever scraps I can find. I HOPE this tribal is turning point for me, but you hosts are sending us all to tribal again so I'll probably get taken out as the easy vote, but I trust Jenn/Jimmy to at least tie it for us.

#confessionals #ivebeenbamboozled

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artificialqueens · 5 years ago

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learning to be silent (multi) — chapter four - roza

[ summary ] : the short program comes to a close and there are tears both happy and sad as france crowns it's medalists. though sadness may come an unexpected connection and friendship can happen at the strangest of times.

[ author's note ] : hope y'all enjoy, this was getting way too long and I cut out about 1000~ words out already, I hope this ties up the loose ends, the long program is gonna be a damn ride let me tell you.

AO3 / My Tumblr / (◠‿・)—☆

— *.✧

There was nothing Shea wanted more than gold, the qualification was so close, she just needed the victory or a tight rein on NHK. Sasha held the reigns tight and the Russian certainly wouldn't let go without a fight tomorrow if it was (somehow) possible for Shea to snatch that first place rank.

Having her support system definitely strengthened her confidence, she knew she had the entire country behind her back and that stress was overwhelming but also helped her to focus on winning, on skating the best she could in France. She hated to sound cocky but she truly was the best chance there was, she knew Adore far too well and Aquaria, she didn't know exactly what to expect yet. She wouldn't downgrade the younger skater considering how much private training and time she got from Sharon but of course, it was her first senior competition: it wasn't expected she'd beat someone like Sasha or even Brooke.

She gave a final wave to the fans as they settled down in silence and blew a kiss to Trinity, Detox and Alaska who sat huddled together, awaiting what was to come next: good or bad, whether she would even have a chance at a medal or not.

I have absolutely the best dress here, thank you Bianca!

The music started and now there was no holding back as the first notes started, her skates taking off as she skated her pattern around the center of the rink before her torso bent backwards, lifting her free leg and extending her arms above the torso to complete a layback spin.

She stretched out her arms as her skates began another traffic pattern towards the judges table, spilt jumping in the air and landing perfectly on the edge of her left skate as she then waited for the lyrics to pick up before taking off from the back outside edge of her foot and turning four rotations the air, not breathing until she landed the quad loop.

Thank fuck.

Ignoring the crowd's wild antics she grinned and continued with the program, playing with the style and lyrics: she had specifically begged Bob to let her do Moulin Rouge for years for the flirty and perfectly sassy exterior to match her own personality and skating style.

"A kiss on the hand may be quite continental

But diamonds are a girl's best friend

A kiss may be grand

But it won't pay the rental on your humble flat!"

Controlling her body and entering the takeoff phase of her triple axel, her skates left the ice and she spun three and a half rotations before landing on the right back inside edge of her skate. That was a move she had began to nail in junior competitions: it's what Shea was known for and she was beyond happy to be nailing all the technical elements of her program, making sure to submerse herself in all the personality of the song as well.

Two minutes and thirty seconds wasn't long enough to show off everything in your binder of tricks but that's why it was so vital: the free skate was all the elements you want to better your score, the short had less leeway and more assigned elements.

Managing to complete her triple toe, triple loop she was back on track and the applause only fed her inner want to snatch that damn gold medal from Sasha who was sitting in complete awe of Shea's skate, she heard the Russian scream her words of encouragement before she had started the skate and it made all the difference.

Right at the bridge Shea prepared herself for the jump she had mentally prepared herself for since she got her assignments: the quad lutz. She had done it in a harness for almost six months and fell the first, probably, twenty times she had done it.

Entering from the back outside edge of her ice skate she slammed the toepick in the ice and rotated a full four times before landing on the back outside edge of the opposite foot, giving an out of character pump of her fists as the audience screamed and cheered, if there was a time to finally get the move right and executed properly it was during a damn competition.

Completing her second to last jump with a quad salchow she entered a biellmann spin, holding the foot with an extension over and behind her head, forming the signature teardrop shape with the body before she went on her back outside edge of her EDEA skates, turning into a scratch spin for her final move completing it with an immense speed she prayed she wouldn't fall to the ground immediately after.

She jumped one more time before ending her short program with her hands extended in front of her and feet adjusting her position to the center of the ice and then that was it, she had completed another skate and it was officially in the books: she had completed the one move she had prayed to finally accomplish.

The Chicago native screamed happily and covered her mouth in happiness, grabbing as many as the stuffed animals and flowers she could not knowing what would be given to her and what would be taken. Her name was called once more as she bowed and skated across the rink and happily took the time to wave to her fans and friends, blowing a kiss to the cameras as she approached the entrance off the ice immediately jumping towards Bob who happily laughed. "That was everything I've ever wanted your damn skating to be!" She yelled fixing the frizz that rose from her hair as Shea put on her skate guards, running towards the Kiss & Cry.

The two conversed, not wanting to over analyze Shea's jumps and elements right now. They simply took in the moment as the cameras began to pan to her as the announcer called for the scores.

"This is what you've been working for, I'm proud of you." Bob mumbled loud enough for Shea to hear as the silence grew in the French crowd.

"I love you mom!" She yelled to the camera, making a heart with her fingertips as a wide grin shined across her lips, her red lipstick still managing to hang on quite well which was good considering she reapplied a layer before she stepped on to the ice.

Please god, let me have this one!

"Shea Couleé has earned in the short program a combined score of 100.29 points, she is currently in second place."

It took the screams of several members in the crowd and Bob shaking her entire body by the shoulders for Shea to drop her jaw and really take in her score.

The American immediately jumped to her feet and screamed, covering her hands with her mouth. Feeling a sense of disbelief course through her veins staring at Bob who could only widen her eyes and squeeze Shea's hand as she tried to calm down, staring up at the screen that had been displaying all the scores. The number stayed and she had only missed Sasha by her a little over a point. A million little mistakes ran through her head that could've all helped to snatch that gold medal but, she couldn't even possibly complain sitting next to Sasha in a great position before the second group started.

"This is a new season's best."

It was a new best for her and by an absolute indescribable margin of over twelve points. Her long straight hair fell across her shoulders, sweating and now pridefully smiling. Standing up and cheering to the dozens of American supporters who came for their home country's skaters, to see them succeed. For Shea, it was the greatest feeling to know that you made your fans and country proud: she hadn't booted down Sasha but she always could for that long program, it wasn't over just yet.

Jumping up and down the American skater took in all the applause and squeezing the stuffed animals she had managed to pick up from the rink before the volunteers cleaned the rest off.

"Shea Couleé a obtenu dans le programme court un score total combiné de 100,29!"

She grabbed Bob by her shoulders and smirked, attempting to jump on her back and quickly being stopped through the coach took her into a tight hug, groaning. "Jesus, I'm so proud of you." Shea nodded and smiled brightly, getting one more hug. Snaking past and giving a wave to Adore who happily screamed from the other side of the rink, she headed over to the podium area as Sasha quickly stood up and completely mauled her in another hug, this was much more satisfying of a hug than Bob's and Shea wasn't sorry about it.

"I can't believe you didn't beat me, I was so ready to move down to the second place spot."

Her words came as a complete surprise to Shea who groaned aloud. "Stop giving me all the credit, I bow to you my queen."

Their fingertips brushing against each other as they spoke, Sasha laughed sweetly. A quiet smile painted across her lips before she began pulling away from the grip of Shea's hug hearing the announcements for the second group to warm up. Finally calm and sitting, Shea realized she was now firmly placed in silver medal position as Brooke, who was hanging on to bronze best she could was clearly lamenting and stacking the other competition as they warmed up.

"C'mon Aquaria!" She screamed as her name was called from the announcers, Sasha clapped and seemed beyond excited to see Sharon's biggest project finally skate on the senior level. Her platinum hair perfectly hanging off her costume as she adjusted the hair tie, trying to not smile at all the cheers and applause coming her way.

"How do you think Aquaria will fare against the current podium?"

Shea was surprised Brooke had spoke up but didn't exactly like how the Canadian said the question aloud. Her tone clearly pointing towards something else. She wouldn't have minded if it was a genuine response, it's normal to ask: she worked with Aquaria and they both represent the same country. Shea wasn't incompetent. Brooke was clearly just trying to calculate in her head if she'd get a medal or if she was better than the blonde who sat itching every minute more towards a complete mental breakdown.

"I think she could absolutely beat you if that's what you're asking."

Taken aback, Brooke rolled her eyes and tapped her fingers across the couch as she took in a deep breath and clapped as the introduction of the skaters went on. Shea noticed her facial expression change and felt slightly inconvenienced but, she wasn't going to be Miss Congeniality in this conversation and act like Brooke was better at everything, Aquaria was competition big time. Just because she was young didn't mean she couldn't absolutely murder the Canadian's score.

Sasha hugged her Penguin plushie and cheered politely for the remaining five skaters who were now warming up, keeping a close eye on Aquaria. While the Russian wasn't as concerned with winning as Brooke was, she definitely a certain nervousness run through her veins, she had seen her during her junior championships and saw her at the Youth Olympics completely destroy the podium for that gold medal. She might've had a very famous and talented coach who also happened to be her mom but she definitely had passion and skills beyond her years.

I hope I did enough to keep first place.

"So, can I ask about Katya?" Shea leaned over gently, holding her hand, the Russian happily interlocking their hands together as she gave a quaint nod. "Of course, they're just warming up now anyway."

"Is she excited to be in Russia for her qualifications since she's in the Rostelecom Cup?"

It seemed a bit of an odd question, of course it was a good thing: that motherland advantage and crowd did so much good on a skater's motivation and passion to win. Sasha assumed she asked the question due to all the media scandal and harassment Katya was getting for quitting on their coach and moving to America to train permanently.

"She is, genuinely, she feels very calm and collected about the situation that's happening and I'm glad she will be in a better mindset training in Michigan, I believe, than with us in Russia."

The pain clearly visible in her voice as she spoke, staring at the floor. Katya leaving was truthfully the worst thing to happen to Sasha in the last five years: the person she had trained with, lived with and accepted as family finally had enough and left the younger blonde alone in St. Petersburg. Of course, she wasn't mad and couldn't ever be mad. She needed the space and time to heal and if training with Chad and in America meant she'd skate better and feel more stride, then so be it.

Shea noticed how close to home the topic must've been and she felt a bit awful for subjecting Sasha to even more stress during the competition, she put an arm around her shoulder and nodded at every other word, the Russian latching on to her for support. Completely distracted by her tender blue eyes, the American snapped out of it and cleared her throat as she finally regained her conscious.

"I have a lot of close friends who train with Chad in Michigan and they're really excited to get to know her and possibly spend time with her, I just want you to know that she is in good hands."

"I'm sure it's wonderful, I trust your judgement."

The two lovingly stared at each other, completely immersed in nothing but pure relief they were together in the podium as they had hopelessly predicted a few days ago. Shea always was offended how damn gorgeous Sasha managed to look even after skating the most intense short program of her life, she was perfectly pristine and just gracefully sitting in her chair with the penguin plush in her lap, watching anxiously for what was to come.

— *.✧

Some had gotten close to third, namely Adore who stumbled on her quad loop and underrotated her triple toe, triple loop combination. Shea frowned seeing her close friend edge out in fourth place, Bianca rubbing her shoulders and quickly comforting the California native who could only nod at the scores, disappointed.

"Our final skater, representing the United States, Aquaria Coady."

Sharon gave Aquaria a final yell and kissed her head before she was sent on the ice, the youngest of the bunch managing to keep a calm and collected smile. She stood in the center, Noticing Shea who gave a thumbs up as she returned the favor, running a hand through her straight, platinum hair and glanced over at her coach.

Sharon already biting her nails and unable to take her eyes off her own daughter, feeling more nauseous and anxious than Aquaria was.

"C'mon Coady!" She heard from the rink as it silenced, knowing it distinctly as Alaska's voice and her voice only, while Aquaria laughed Sharon felt nothing but displeasure: she knew Alaska was only giving support but in the tense atmosphere and build up it didn't help calm her nerves.

Give me the strength to not murder her after this.

Björk's Oh So Quiet began to blast as Aquaria lifted her edges of the ice and turned her back, lifting her arms and making way past the judges and turning into an arabesque before making her way to the quad salchow.

Sharon could only freeze until she landed the jump, springing into the air and yelling, covering her mouth as her daughter continued peacefully, surprisingly looking more motivated. Sharon's worst fear was Aquaria festering up to the pressure and the applause distracting her from the program but she instead seemed to eat up the crowd and add the passion into the skate.

Her own body swayed along to the music, sometimes she wishes she didn't retire so much earlier than expected of her but seeing someone like Aquaria continue the legacy she had built and bring a new edge and face: it was the greatest achievement of her career and couldn't have made her more proud.

So far, so good: a clean, respectable and fun short program.

Entering the back edge of her foot she watched Aquaria go in deep for the quad loop and she completed it: it was perfect, it was clean, it made Sharon yell again. She looked around and hoped no cameras or other coaches would see her losing it like an absolute maniac. She heard cheering behind her, realizing it was just Bianca and Bob who sat together on the bench beside her in the left corner.

It brought a deep happiness in her heart to know her fellow coaches and old time skating competition were still rooting for Aquaria to push through and make that podium dominated by a squad of American skaters.

Every little element brought a staunch reaction from Sharon who had basically been holding her breath for the last two minutes and thirty seconds, seeing Aquaria perform her final element of a layback spin, her head and shoulders dropped backwards as she arched her back towards the ice she took in the applause and almost fell to the ground once she finished.

She breathed heavily against the wall of the rink, clutching her heart as she waited patiently for Aquaria to come, cheering and clapping for her daughter not wanting to cry before getting the scores: she had executed it perfectly and the only misstep she had taken was possibly a slight under rotated quad but that was up to judges deliberation and not up to Sharon.

The minute her skates hit the carpet again they slammed into each other, Aquaria's hands digging into her shoulders as Sharon wiped the sweat off her forehead and pressed a kiss to the top of her head, "Kid, I'm so fucking proud." She whispered in muffled breath. Aquaria taking it all in and wishing she had a camera to capture the moment. However, she was sure the hundreds around them would and somehow she'd find this exact moment on Twitter at about 3AM tonight.

As the two made their way over the Kiss & Cry, Bianca and Bob quickly giving Aquaria the high praise she deserved as she put on her skate guards.

"That was fucking art, magnificent."

"Beat bitch, you and Shea, besides Adore, are the only ones I didn't want to fall asleep to! You also had the best costume made by yours truly!"

Sharon held Aquaria's hands firmly, interlocking their fingers and pressing a kiss to her adopted daughter's forehead. The blonde couldn't have possibly even imagined how much energy and passion she gained being in front of a crowd. Especially considering it was her first senior competition she had done exactly what she came to do: prove everyone wrong. Whatever was to happen now was up to the judges and while in the back of her heart Sharon knew her skating was not up to the same level as Sasha's yet , Aquaria absolutely won the crowd over and had managed to steal Sharon's heart yet again, as always.

"I'm proud of you kid, medal or no medal, tonight you have proved yourself to the world." The words leaving her mouth softly, Aquaria only falling into the grip of her coaches arm, Sharon running a hand through her platinum hair as the screens were still replaying the footage of her jumps and elements up for review, waiting for that score.

The music stopped, Sharon's heart now pounding twice as loud, squeezing her hands tightly and praying she had managed to do enough: she was the last skater and every single hope rested on her.

"The scores please."

Sharon had managed to whisper a distinctly loud and nerve wrecked, "Fuck—" aloud before she covered her mouth, Aquaria giggling and staring away from the camera's as they sat together: mother and daughter, coach and skater.

I just hope I was good enough of a coach to her.

"Aquaria Coady has earned in the short program a total combined score of…"

The announcer stopped and Sharon wanted to die right on the spot, what truthfully was just two seconds seemed to last an entire lifetime. This was the foundation her skater needed to succeed and it would definitely be wonderful to completely laugh in Phi Phi's face for old times sake.

"94.61, she is in currently in third place."

Aquaria's heart stopped beating the minute she had heard the score and she covered her mouth with her hands, her eyes immediately watering and red as Sharon screamed and stood up, still screaming and picking up her daughter by the waist and swung her around. The two separated, both emotional as they hugged again letting the applause and screeches of the American fans speak for themselves.

"You did it!" Was all she could hear her coach scream in her ear as they ignored the French translation and took in the atmosphere, this was truly a photo finish.

"Aquaria Coady a obtenu dans le programme court une note combinée totale de 94,61, elle est à la troisième place."

The younger girl had barely enough time to process: she had won a bronze medal in the first night of her first senior competition, her mom and coach still holding back tears as they jumped in place and held hands tightly, Sharon completely passing out on her shoulder though her smile glowed brighter than all the camera flashes and stadium lights.

Holy shit, I just won a medal, fuck.

Upon seeing the scoreboard she noticed in the corner Shea standing and yelping for the younger American who came running in her arms, the Chicago native laughing with pride once they fell into the couch. The two of them sporting Team USA jackets in Grenoble, the podium was officially two Americans and the Russian who reigned supreme once again.

It was difficult to ignore Brooke who sat in tears, closing her eyes and breathing through her mouth though her fists were clenched and bright red as Aquaria walked over and helped her up, trying to congratulate the Canadian on still, a wonderful result she should definitely be proud of. The older skater clearly wanted to be left alone as she immediately raced off, only stopping to pat Aquaria's back in a silent form of congratulations as she disappeared away from the crowd and cameras.

"Congratulations darling." Sasha spoke sweetly as they shook hands smiling, Aquaria feeling a bit dazed and starstruck upon seeing the Russian who had secured the gold she wanted: if she won the free skate she was advancing to the Grand Prix final's like expected of her.

"Thank you."

Shea and Sasha latched onto each other as they began to adjust each other's laces that were beginning to untangle from being off the ice and pacing around so much. A faint pinch of curiosity ran through Aquaria's brain as she stared blankly at her friend who seemed irresistibly engulfed with Sasha. She had seen Shea smile more in three minutes staring at the Russia's own darling skater than she had the entire season of training.

That would be an interesting match...

— *.✧

Brooke had held it together fine hearing those damn scores, she was beaten and unless she made the podium tomorrow there was no chance she'd qualify for the Grand Prix final, she had already gotten a silver medal at Skate America: this was the final push she had and god , she refused to have this moment be taken away from her by some starting senior who was beyond talented but had barely even began the real work.

Wiping her eyes she put her body against the wall of the deserted hallway, knowing the medal ceremony would begin in a moment and she wouldn't be a part of it. She knew half of her mascara would run dry and down her face by the time she had comprehended what happened. She didn't want to see anyone, not even Manila. She knew her coach would gently hug her and tell her to train for tomorrow, to look at the end goal and not just tonight.

"Brooke…" A voice spoke, closing the door to the hallway locker rooms as the Canadian sat in tears, it truly shouldn't be such a big deal but her body was at it's limit and all the hard work she did with Manila, Detox and Alyssa seemed a great waste even with the free skate still to go.

Her eyes bounced around the room before spotting Detox kneeling right next to her on the bench where she had made a home. "Girl, that was fucking awesome."

Brooke completely broke down at that very moment, choking and stifling back her tears before letting it all go: she felt like she failed her mentor and idol at that very second. The American skater frowned and sat on the bench before quickly wrapping her arms around Brooke's shoulders, letting her completely sob on her jacket.

"I'm so proud of you, medal or no medal."

The Canadian nodded in silence, it was a comfort to hear that but it wouldn't change the fact her chances at the Grand Prix were practically kissed goodbye unless she managed to beat Shea, Sasha or Aquaria tomorrow.

Bouncing her royal blue hair, Detox held her hands and made her lift her head from the floor. "Stop slagging, you're the hardest worker I know, I love those girls with all my heart but you still have all my support and want towards winning the gold."

"I feel like I'm failing you… That I'm failing my own country—" sniffling every third word, trying to compose herself. She was starting to piece together the reason why she was so broken was because this was the first real fall of her career she had, impressive but to have it in France, during a fucking qualification definitely raised her emotions bitterly.

"You better not ever fucking say that, can't name someone I'm more proud of."

"Trinity?"

Detox gripped the bench, eyes widening as she bit her own lips. Ignoring the flush that infiltrated her cheeks she laughed, "Don't play with me, she's a good friend , friend for sure, you're like my hotter daughter who can actually do ballet— you're everything I've ever wanted in a skater."

"You're not just saying that?"

The older skater slapped her knee gently and laughed, head on her shoulder, "I wish I didn't fucking have to, you should already know it's all true."

Tired of wallowing in the stench of the locker rooms, the two got up and held hands tightly as they went out back, Detox finally convincing Brooke Lynn to attend the medal ceremony and not just sit around her hotel room in nothing but sorrow. They walked arm in arm out around the door before taking Brooke to their original seats which were with Alaska (competition) and Trinity (competition).

Politely introducing herself she sat with the three Americans, feeling a bit of an odd one out especially considering the three all trained with each other in some capacity or another. Alaska and Trinity were nice enough out of competition, wishing her luck and saying her skate today was very well done.

The rink had already set up with the podiums and volunteers coming out, the president of the ISU already introduced and standing on the layers laid down to prevent any accidents on the ice, no skates were necessary while walking on these paths and carpeted areas.

"Third place, representing the United States, Aquaria Coady."

The three next to Brooke immediately stood and clapped loudly, whooping and screeching for Sharon's daughter and the bronze medal winner from their home country. The Canadian joined them and clapped politely, simply taking a deep breath, wondering what could have been.

"Troisième place, représentant les États-Unis, Aquaria Coady!"

The music of her short program played as the youngest skater in the competition begun to skate her way around the rink, waving to the stands as she smirked widely. Her smile was definitely infectious as Brooke had to at least give a quaint and visible smile towards her, she deserved it no matter how badly the Canadian had prayed it would've been her.

She stopped her skates and hopped on to the third place podium, proudly standing and being projected on the bigger screens scattered throughout the rink for everyone far and close to see.

"Second place, representing the United States, Shea Couleé."

"Deuxième place, représentant les États-Unis, Shea Couleé!"

Trinity had completely melted and jumped in the stands, screeching for her best friend who came out as her Moulin Rouge program played, spotting the four and blowing a kiss to Trinity who laughed and leaned on Detox happily, shouting her name until she had stopped and Aquaria helped her gently get on the second place podium.

Shea hugged Aquaria, a sweet moment for the camera's and enough to get a reaction from the already antsy and energetic crowd.

Now all that was left was the one and only.

"In first place, representing Russia, Sasha Velour."

"En premier lieu, représentant la Russie, Sasha Velour!"

The blonde skated out in unexplainable joy, the music of her short playing though the crowd completely drowned it out with cheers and appreciation towards the golden girl, who had been expected to take it easily.

Sasha held Shea's hand as she jumped on the podium, smiling widely at the cameras and giving waves everywhere she saw a Russian flag or excited fan, she was completely exhilarated no doubt but still managed to keep sanity and grace with the audience and fans in Grenoble who were now on their feet.

"God she's so fucking good." Alaska groaned aloud, clearly Team Shea and Aquaria for tomorrow though it was looking to be another clear Grand Prix qualification for Sasha who already got gold her previous assignment in Canada.

Grand Prix's were, outside of the Olympics and World's (though even that could be debated): the biggest competition skater's had to look forward to, the Olympics was months away and qualifications had already begun in certain countries. You needed to do well in just one but two separate competitions you were randomly assigned to: Sasha was to be the first definite qualifier if she won gold tomorrow. Katya who had won gold in America was right behind her and was assigned to Rostelecom in her own home country, Detox was also in the same boat as Katya with an added NHK Trophy assignment after Russia.

Sasha bounced happily on her podium as her and Shea whispered idle conversation to each other before the announcer spoke, introducing the ISU representatives and letting the volunteers come out with bouquets of flowers, wrapped and ready for the skaters after the medals were presented.

The ISU president walked first to Aquaria who graciously accepted the medal around her neck and hugged the president who smiled and separated, shaking her hand as the crowd cheered for the newly broken in skater.

Aquaria blew a kiss to who must've been her mom and coach, Sharon who was an utter legend back even just a few years ago before she decided to retire.

Silver was presented to Shea who couldn't keep it in and did a small jump of joy, Sasha giggling beside her and she watched the medal become bestowed upon her. Another hug before she bowed to all the praise and love, Brooke was sure almost a fifth came from her row, mainly Trinity.

The American danced and laughed, gripping Sasha's hand before cheering loudly for the gold medal winner who bowed and politely shook hands before receiving a final hug from the president who took his time showing the Gold medal and putting it around the Russian skater's neck as she bashfully teared up hearing all the applause and love given towards her.

As the flags were lowered, two American and one Russian, the stadium respectfully stood (most already having been standing) as the speakers began to blast the Russian national anthem, Sasha proudly mouthing every word and wiping her eyes as she lipsync though the arena was pact enough to hear the Russian fans singing the words to their anthem with nothing but passion.

"Rossiya – svyashchennaya nasha derzhava,

Rossiya – lyubimaya nasha strana.

Moguchaya volya, velikaya slava –

Tvoio dostoyanye na vse vremena!"

Brooke nodded, it was a lovely national anthem and she could definitely feel the fans singing along and supporting their country and Sasha: overall, it was expected that she would win (let's be honest).

The Canadian said her goodbyes to Detox once she had enough of scrolling through her phone and occasionally adding to the conversation an hour after the ceremony ended before quietly wandering off herself to her hotel room. She was hoping Manila wouldn't be angry she strayed away after the short program had ended. She was really hoping to just find some alcohol around here, a cocktail for her pent up and let out sadness.

As she stepped out of the elevator and onto her floor, duffel in hand she heard a concerning amount of knocks and relentless pounds towards a nearby door in her hallway. Brooke's amygdala completely flared as she jumped the corner and hid behind the corner of the wall, completely horrified. Praying someone was just drunk she breathed in relief once she heard the words coming from the said door thrasher.

"Kameron, bitch! I'm locked out of our fucking room!"

A muffled voice on the phone spoke: "I'm with Brianna, we went to the city outskirts and she's completely wasted already after watching the competition in a local bar, we're about an hour away, we'll leave soon I promise!"

Curiously, Brooke Lynn peaked the wall before anxiously circling behind and tilted her head finally seeing one of her fellow skating competitors she recognized as Vanessa Mateo completely frustrated as she helplessly pounded on the door. The Puerto Rican took notice to the taller figure peering behind her view before putting her hands up, dropping her phone and wallet before Brooke shook her head.

Letting her duffel hit the floor, the blonde went over to help the fellow skater pick up her things. Disorientated, Vanessa gasped and managed once more to drop her wallet: this time Brooke being able to catch it.

"I know you! Oh my god!" She yelled, a jump in her step as Brooke shushed her, slapping her shoulder, it was approaching midnight. "I'm sorry, you're so talented though!" The blonde shrugged, Vanessa scoffed at her lack of self appreciation.

"Bitch, you are fucking fabulous. I said to my friend, Kameron, while we were in the rink watching: Thank god I ain't skating in her assignments! You did so amazing." The sweet talk was very genuine but after a long night Brooke couldn't do anything expect sigh and politely smile, "You're very talented, I loved your Mambo skate last season."

Brooke had heard much about Vanessa, she was extremely popular on social media and always had the greatest Instagram Live's before competitions. Her coach was her god-mother and though she represented Puerto Rico, she happily trained in Florida or Michigan. Their styles couldn't be more different but the Canadian was glad she had the love from another skater who deserved twice as many medals than already collected.

The two exchanged glances of respect and high praise, the shorter skater extending a hand politely, not exactly knowing if physical affection was her thing.

"Vanessa, most call me Vanjie though."

"Brooke Lynn, good to finally meet you in person."

Rummaging through her wallet she managed to take a glimpse at the door, "Locked out?" She asked frowning, that be Brooke's worst nightmare even in France, especially for poor Vanessa who wasn't even a skater at this event and would just be treated as such.

"Yes Ma'am, I'm trying to call my friend who's staying with me but she's with her damn girlfriend as always, chatting it up and getting it on!"

Well that was too much information.

The blonde ran her fingers through her hair and huffed, knowing the staff wouldn't provide her with another keycard to the room especially if someone else had it on them already.

"I know we just met but if you want, you can stay with me until she comes."

Grabbing her bag she swung it around her shoulders as her Team Canada jacket began to reek of sweat and tears, "As long as you don't mind I shower, I smell awful."

Vanessa, completely gutted immediately nodded and sprung to her feet groaning in happiness. "Yes god, I owe you back in alcohol and food which we can order to your door!" The Canadian for the first time in this entire qualification smiled, laughing even.

"It's a done deal as long as you don't eat where my bed is."

— *.✧

Alaska had immediately raced to completely demolish Aquaria in nothing but love and hugs, maybe coupled with loud screeches. Winning a bronze medal at your first international senior competition while simultaneously facing skaters like Brooke Lynn Hytes, Sasha Velour and Jinkx Monsoon? Absolutely priceless.

"You fucking twig, I'm so proud." Her fingers brushing the hair past her face as they embraced, the younger skater only grinning with delight at the teasing as the bronze medal was held proudly around her neck. Aquaria tightly jumped around with the older skater, Sharon watching from a side, genuinely smiling and leaning against the wall with nothing but happiness.

"Thank you, for everything."

The blonde shrugged, "Anything for my Aqua." Her fingers running across the bronze medal in nothing but pride, admiring the workmanship and build of the prize. "Now you just have to listen to Sharon and relax, you have the free dance and I totally think you could fucking murder Sasha Velour by the way."

Sharon butt in, "She is right, you could but you have to rest." She threw Aquaria her keycard, "Go to the hotel and take a bath, you smell like sweat even if it's from winning a medal." Her daughter laughed and didn't complain, wanting to immerse her entire body in a bathtub full of bubbles and lavender essential oils.

An arm suddenly slugged around Alaska's shoulders as Sharon pulled her in and dropped her head in the crook of her neck, the skater grinning in delight. "Someone is either very tired or very happy to see me." Her hands reaching around her waist, keeping open eyes in the open hotel hallway.

"Tired, I hate you." The words coming off quietly with Alaska snickering into her hair, running a hand down her back as she hummed. "I know you do, that's why we live together." A kiss pressed to her lips softly, Sharon pushed her back and held her hand tenderly, "Thanks for coming."

"You're saying that as if I wouldn't die for Aquaria and to see her skate."

The shrug that Sharon gave as a response made the younger woman beside her punch her right in the shoulder, "You really thought I wouldn't come?" The question resonating with Sharon who only opened her mouth before closing it again, wanting to pick and choose her words carefully. The silence was clearly enough of an answer for Alaska who immediately gnawed at her cheeks, bitter.

"Seriously? What the fuck Sharon, you're my girlfriend and Aqua is still my damn training partner."

"You said yourself you're gonna retire! How the fuck am I supposed to know, I didn't know if you'd wanna come see a competition so soon after announcing privately in tears that you were calling it quits on skating!"

Alaska crossed her arms and cocked her brow, "So you think because I'm sad and that I'm gonna retire I shouldn't come?" Sharon stood quiet and sighed, giving up on trying to win a fight that had yet to even start.

"I guess not, what do I know."

"Everything, you're the reason I'm sane my love." Alaska joked as she tangled her fingers in her hair, the blonde putting a hand on the skater's cheek and caressing it as she spoke quietly of how badly she needed to draw herself a bath and order junk food from hotel services.

"Perfect date! We can use every bath bomb I managed to buy yesterday and eat grease!" Alaska called out chipper, grabbing her lover's hand as they walked back to their hotel room, hand in hand, Detox had promised Alaska a lone room tonight since she was gonna go to the city with Trinity after the ceremony and most likely find a joint over there for a night.

Translation: I'm gonna have sex with my crush hardcore all night in the city centre hotel instead of our room, enjoy!

"You are certainly something."

"Would you want me any other way darling?" Their fingers playing before they interlocked tight as Sharon spoke firmly, a smile across her dried lipstick.

"Definitely not."

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