#otherwise they will remain just “The VIP”

[northstar-galactic-command]

The Caspian Incident, Part 2

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E/S-P Group 72

As has been previously mentioned, one of the many services Northstar Galactic Command offers its clients is our Escort/Secure Premier (E/S-P) package. A standard E/S-P package is the rough equivalent of a BUC light naval group and typically includes two carriers plus frigate, frame, and subline escorts. 

As the Karrakin Cavalry College opens its doors to new students, a number of clients made use of our E/S-P package to ensure the safe arrival of their prospective Kavaliers. One of the groups granted this privilege was E/S-P Group 72.

NGC values the privacy of its clients, so we are not at liberty to disclose who contracted E/S-P Group 72, or who it was escorting. Should they wish to identify themselves they may do so, but until such time they will simply be referred to as “The Client” and “The VIP”. 

E/S-P packages are customizable at client request. In this case, The Client expressed a desire for speed, efficiency, and a certain degree of subtlety. An escort of multiple capital ships is not a thing that can go unremarked, but there were concerns that arriving at school at the head of a war fleet could be considered a bit ostentatious. As such, they were provided Group 72: a low number, high-impact package consisting of only one carrier and two frigates, plus their attendant subline escorts and wings. 

NGCS-CV Guiding Light

Guiding Light was the flagship of Group 72. She was constructed to the specifications of the Masauwu class Heavy Carrier-Frame, and was launched in 4898U. Like many NGC vessels, much of the time since her launch was spent in transit, but she has seen more than her share of action. Guiding Light has worn both Union and KTB colors and saw action in the Siege of Sapphire Dawn, the Battle of Point 5974, and the Harvest Line campaign in addition to her standard patrol and escort duties. 

In 4978 she was formally transferred to GALCOMM’s KTB-C division and assigned as the flag vessel of her own battlegroup: the newly formed E/S-P Group 72. As is standard for flagships, Guiding Light was given a refit that significantly reinforced her structure, armor, and point defense capabilities. She was also equipped with a new FORGEMASTER subaltern command suite to help maximize combat efficiency.  

Like all vessels built to standard Masauwu class specifications, Guiding Light has no naval ordinance of her own. She is a dedicated carrier, with docking berths for multiple subline escort groups and dozens of catapults for launching attack wings. To help leverage her extensive complement of parasite craft, she features an extremely robust set of command and control (C&C) systems. 

At the time of the Caspian Incident, she was hosting four Bowsprit class destroyers: NGCS-DD Whip Shark, NGCS-DD Ripperfish, NGCS-DD Orca, and NGCS-DD Razorfin. She was also carrying six autonomous assault delivery platforms, equipped with boarding pods for several hundred IPS-N PIPECLEANER subalterns.

For close-in patrol and raiding, Guiding Light maintained a Legion drone nexus with ninety drone craft on standby. To secure the safety of the VIP against possible boarding actions, a mounted Chassis wing was allocated to Guiding Light. The wing consisted of 40 mounted frames divided into ten teams of four, and was primarily comprised of IPS-N Tortuga frames and their support units.

As it is currently operating within the Concern, Group 72 uses the rank structure of the BUC. At the time of the Caspian Incident, it was commanded by Line Captain Nelson Chiarella. This also placed them in direct command of the group's flagship: Guiding Light.

Line Captain Chiarella was born from Honest Truth with top naval command certifications. They were seconded to Union peacekeeping operations, where they served as the executive officer on UNS-CV Erie. Their first command was NGCS-CL Narwhal, where they led Narwhal through three long-range patrols and two combat engagements. They were eventually promoted to command of NGCS-CV Chicōmecōātl, which completed one long-range patrol and three E/S-P contracts before being badly damaged in the Battle of Eastfold. For their skill and heroic action during the battle, Chiarella was promoted again to commander of E/S-P Group 72, a position they have held since the Group's creation.

Chiarella's public-facing naval record notes their particular loyalty to their crews and clients, something that served them well throughout their career. They are also noted as extremely dedicated by several former commanders, and uncompromising in the face of adversity.

-

Next we will review the remaining ships and commanders of Group 72. After that, we can dig into the incident itself.

Stay tuned!

[narcjsistx]

𝐕𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐎𝐔𝐒 𝐇𝐂𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐀 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐌 | sae, shidou, rin (part two)

𝐌𝐘 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 ; take a look, trust me!

— sae itoshi

✶ Sae seems like someone who actually likes to wear bracelets, rings or necklaces, but can't wear them often due to the matchs he plays, where he would risk breaking them. going back to the basic concept, his gifts would probably be matching jewelry, especially rings... so, in case you were someone who wears them and rarely takes them off, he would try to do the same thing. during matches he would hang the ring on a string that he would put in his pocket or around his neck, kissing it before starting the match or squeezing it after scoring a goal

✶ I don't know exactly why, but beyond the canonical fetish for the ass, I see him as someone who would aim to have a partner with well groomed hands, like nails with polish, smooth and without calluses. he's not a big fan of PDA, the only thing he would do is hold your hand and occasionally leave a prying kiss on the back. in private he is certainly more open, and one thing he loves is massaging his partner's hand; it's a gesture he now makes almost unconsciously

✶ Sae didn't have instagram until he met you, you practically forced him to create an account! he resisted his manager telling him to do the same for a long time, but for you it was only enough once. he just put a profile photo, you had to do it for him the bio and some highlights, about past or future matches. a few days later you opened instagram and noticed that his account had a highlights that you hadn't created, entitled "her": you opened it and there were some photos of you, the ones that Sae considered most important (even if he loves them all). needless to say, your heart was about to explode

what would he post on socials ↓

✶ as a child he may have thought about it a bit, but after joining ReAl he didn't have the time to think about it again. he wouldn't mind having a family sooner or later, but probably after winning the U-20 world cup. two children would be fine, possibly a boy and a girl. he just knows that in some way his children would remind him of him and Rin as lil kids

✶ jealosy level: 5/10

✶ flirtiness level: 7/10 (let's specify, ABSOLUTELY NOT in public, but in private maybe he would indulge in some jokes)

✶ pet names: "amor" / "y/n" / "pretty"

—————————————

— ryusei shidou

✶ even if it doesn't seem like it, Shidou is relatively a normal person as a boyfriend... is there a concept of personal space? not that, but otherwise it's normal. the only "flaw" he may have is that he must CONSTANTLY have his hand touching you when you're together, whether it's a hand on your thigh or an arm around your shoulders: he simply needs to feel you. PDA is no big deal for him: he want to kiss you in front of everyone? he will do it, whatever the cost. if you say he can kiss you after winning a game and it's live nationally, why can't he do it in front of his group of homies?

✶ Shidou seems like someone actually very deep, or at least that seems to be described in some parts of his character sheet. Late night chats are literally the level of mental intimacy he hopes to achieve with his partner... he's someone who doesn't sleep much, so he has a lot of energy and hardly gets tired even after hours of talking. You and him tightly hugging on his bed, lights off and just everything that goes through your head... doesn't everything seem perfect?

✶ you know very well that every time he has a match he makes comments that, let's say, put him in a "bad light", or in any case make him seem less interested in you. before being with you he didn't mind saying things like that on the field, and more or less the same thing has remained since you got together as a couple... BUT THERE IS A BUT! every time, once the game is over and above all won, he makes sure to run to you before even celebrating with his teammates: whether you are in the VIP area or not, he will come to you to kiss you with all the passion he has. let's say he uses his method to reconfirm to the people that he is happily taken

what would he post on socials ↓

✶ GET MARRIED AND HAVE MANY CHILDREN AS POSSIBLE? YEAAAAH. no okay maybe not like that, but on the issue of children he doesn't lie... certainly with the career as a striker he has, he has no problems with money, and therefore with maintaining kids. let's say that for marriage it's different... he doesn't find any sense in it, in reality, he only sees it as something superficial: if he loves you and you know it, why have such a ceremony?. so let's say it's 50/50: he would do it if you asked him but at the same time he wouldn't mind not being married

✶ jealosy level: 1/10 (he trusts you too much to even think about it)

✶ flirtiness level: 10/10

✶ pet names: "doll" / "darling" / "love"

—————————————

— rin itoshi

✶ Rin hides under his serious and calculating gaze a boy who simply needs to vent after everything that happened with his older brother. Before being together as a couple he would never have expected to be able to cry in front of someone, but with you it was all quite natural: it took months and a lot of patience to show him that you really cared about him and that you wanted him to feel comfortable with you, but in the end he let himself go and was finally able to tell someone what not even he himself could explain. he'll never admit it but he believes that was the moment he realized how important you really were to him, and how much he simply wanted someone who could understand him

✶ He has a sort of fetish for seeing you in his clothes: it doesn't matter if the clothes are tight, big or the right size, just seeing you in that black sweatshirt of his or in his PxG uniform is enough to send him into crisis. he can't even explain to you why he likes it so much, but the fact that you're wearing something that smells like him is definitely a valid reason. you once surprised him by showing up at one of his matches wearing a jacket with "rin" written on the back, and we can say that he appreciated it to the point of having to prove it to you in some way: that time the match ended 9-0, goal all marked by him

✶ He may be one of the best if not the best, but after finishing the practice he simply needs to rest with you next to him, even more so if the coach was more unpleasant than usual or he simply did a lot of things wrong due to distraction (which is impossible considering it's Rin). Whether on the couch after cleaning himself or in the shower, while you rub shampoo into his hair it doesn't matter, he just needs to feel your presence

what would he post on socials ↓

✶ as a child he often saw other children playing at being married, but he was never actually interested, also because on the one hand it disgusted him to think of having to be tied to a person forever and kiss them on the mouth. as he's grown up he's changed his opinion, he's definitely the marriageable type and he'd actually like to get married as soon as possible: what's the point in leaving you legally free if you've stolen his heart?. let's say that he has a fairly positive opinion about children, he just knows that they arrive after a certain amount of time after marriage: he would like to have two girls... growing up as one of two brothers, both boys, he knows how boys are more problematic than girls

✶ jealosy level: 6/10

✶ flirtiness level: 3/10

✶ pet names: "y/n" / "love"

[bread-crum206]

A Game of Hearts

Chapter eight: Cracks in the Armor

Summary: Y/N’s father is a VIP for the games, he makes a deal with the Frontman that if he marries his only daughter that he will continue to sponsor the games. However, Y/N is not fond of this decision as she loathes the games and in turn, loathes the Frontman as well. Will she grow to love him? Will he let his walls down?

previous | 8 | next

Series Masterlist

The day that followed felt like a delicate balancing act. You and In-ho moved through it like two people walking on tightropes—never quite crossing the line, but always just teetering on the edge of something more. The small moments that had once seemed so insignificant were starting to carry weight. A glance that lingered too long. The sound of his voice, softer than usual when he spoke to you. The way he seemed to watch you when he thought you weren’t looking.

It was these tiny shifts, these tiny changes, that were starting to wear on you. Each second you spent in his presence, you felt like you were learning something new about him, even when he said nothing at all. His mask was always on, and yet, for some reason, you were starting to see past it. Or maybe you were just starting to look harder. Either way, it felt like something was shifting. Something was changing.

But the more time passed, the more you wondered if it was all in your head. Was it real? Did he really feel what you were starting to feel? Or were you simply projecting your own desires, your own confusion, onto him?

The thing was, you couldn’t deny it anymore. There was something. Even if it was just a flicker. A fleeting moment that was too brief to hold on to, but still too strong to ignore.

That morning, you had just finished breakfast. The sound of silverware scraping against your plate echoed through the quiet room as you set it down, the clink of it loud in the otherwise still air. You weren’t in the mood to talk, but you could feel the tension hanging between you and In-ho. It had been there for days—this quiet undercurrent that neither of you had addressed. Something unsaid. Something hanging in the space between you, getting heavier by the minute.

He had walked into the quarters from the sprawling hallways of the complex, his usual mask in place, the slight hum of his footsteps on the polished floor the only noise as he approached. The tablet in his hands was open to some report, something to do with the Games, no doubt. It didn’t matter. He wasn’t looking at you. You weren’t looking at him either, but the silence was suffocating. Every minute felt like it was stretching out in slow motion.

It was unbearable. And you couldn’t hold it in anymore.

“Why are we doing this?” The words spilled from your mouth before you could stop them. Your voice cracked, breaking the calm like glass shattering underfoot. It wasn’t even a question you had thought through. It was more of a desperate plea for something—clarity, understanding, maybe even a glimpse of the truth behind the mask he wore so rigidly. You didn’t even realize how much emotion was in your voice until it came out.

In-ho’s eyes flicked up from his tablet, his gaze flickering toward you. His jaw tightened, the briefest of flickers passing through his dark eyes, but his expression remained unreadable. “Doing what?”

“Playing this game,” you said, the frustration in your chest leaking into your words. You stood up from the table, pushing your chair back a little harder than necessary. The tension was suffocating, crawling under your skin like ants. “Pretending everything is fine when it’s not. Pretending that this” you gestured between the two of you, “is fine. Pretending that this marriage is fine. That everything in this place is fine, when nothing about it feels real.”

You wanted to take the words back immediately. To shut up. To go back to the cold silence where everything was easy to hide behind. But it was too late. You’d said it, and now it was out there, hanging like a raw nerve between you. The words felt like a release, but they also felt like a mistake. You had no idea what to expect from him.

In-ho was silent. His eyes were still locked on you, but the look in them had shifted, no longer the calculated distance that he usually kept, but something deeper. Something heavier.

“I don’t know,” you muttered, more to yourself than to him. “I just… I can’t keep pretending. Can’t keep going through the motions when it feels like we’re both stuck in a game neither of us wants to play.”

In-ho set the tablet down on the counter, his fingers lingering on the edge for a second before he finally looked up at you. He didn’t speak right away. His expression was distant, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes, a recognition. Maybe even a kind of understanding.

“Because we have no other choice,” he said, his voice low and quiet. There was no edge to it, no anger or frustration—just an emptiness. Like he had said it a thousand times before, and maybe he had. The words didn’t sound like an explanation; they sounded like resignation.

You stared at him, your heart pounding in your chest, frustration and sorrow mixing together. “But that’s just it, isn’t it?” you whispered, shaking your head slowly. “We don’t have any other choice. And that’s why everything feels like it’s slipping through our fingers. Like we’re drowning, but we can’t even admit it.”

There was a heavy silence that followed your words. You could feel his gaze on you, his eyes watching, studying. You wanted him to say something. Anything. But he didn’t. And you couldn’t bring yourself to speak again. It felt like if either of you said anything more, something inside would break.

You didn’t know how long you stood there, just looking at him, feeling the weight of the moment press in on you both. The room felt small, too small for all the things you had just laid bare.

And then, for the first time in what felt like forever, In-ho spoke.

“I know,” he said simply, his voice quieter than before, like the words had drained the last bit of weight from him. “I know exactly what it feels like.”

The words landed like a punch to the gut, and you felt your breath catch in your throat. He knew. He knew. The realization hit you hard. The man behind the mask, the man who had spent so long behind walls of silence and distance, was human. Just like you. He was stuck too.

He didn’t say anything else. But at that moment, you didn’t need him to. The truth between you felt like a raw nerve, an open wound that neither of you knew how to heal. But it was the first time you hadn’t felt like you were talking to a stranger.

You felt like you were talking to someone who understood the weight of this world—the weight of the Games. The weight of being forced to play a role you didn’t choose. You weren’t alone.

In-ho looked down, his fingers rubbing the edge of his tablet absently. “I didn’t sign up for any of this either,” he muttered under his breath, barely loud enough for you to hear. But the words were there. He didn’t sign up for this.

You weren’t sure what it meant, but in that moment, it felt like the first crack in the wall he’d built around himself. It wasn’t much, but it was enough.

Before you could speak again, he turned towards his office. His back was to you as he walked toward the door, but just as he reached it, he stopped.

There was a long pause before he spoke again. His voice, softer now, more human than you’d ever heard it.

“I didn’t choose this either,” he said quietly, almost as if to himself. He turned back to you, his mask still in place, but there was something different in the way he stood. “But I’m still here.”

And with that, he walked into his office, leaving you alone in the room, the weight of the conversation hanging between you like the air after a storm it was heavy, thick, full of possibility.

———————

Chapter eight!!! Yippee! Lemme know what you think! 🫶

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[onyourowndaisymae]

solomon's bunny boy birthday service

today is my birthday and i'm rewarding myself with self-indulgent, bunny boy solomon smut. heavily inspired by conversations w jes and this image right here

content + warnings: NSFW minors dni, solomon x fem!reader, oral (reader recieving), fingering, reader is wearing a dress, minor lucifer cuckage

word count: ~1.2k

"fuck, that's-- solomon, please."

the steady thrum of dance music and the occasional trickle of light are all that pierce through the otherwise complete seclusion of the room. it's a private VIP space. today is your birthday-- that's your party outside, so graciously hosted and organized by the demon brothers-- and yet here you are, arching your back off of the sofa as your body writhes in pleasure.

this is all his fault.

it's your special day. preparations have been made in advance, and-- excuse your bluntness-- you've known most of the details since they were finalized weeks ago. the demon brothers are wonderful for a lot, but certainly not at keeping secrets or planning surprises. so you knew this party was coming. but when solomon waltzes up to you shortly after the night begins dressed as one of the club's bunny boy waiters-- well, the sight almost sends you to your knees, both in a fit of laughter and for... other reasons.

he's a damn flirt. seductive whispers against your ear, fleeting brushes against your body as he walks by, attending to your every need like a good little waiter-- all of it is sneaky and fitting of the devious sorcerer's usual antics. you can't deny the way his lips brushing against your earlobe make you shiver, how the show he puts on of waggling his bunny tail before he skitters off stokes dangerously at embers inside your gut.

solomon got what he wanted-- you, in a private room, moaning his name as he pleases you.

his lips latch greedily onto your clit, steely eyes looking up through pretty silver lashes to gauge every reaction, every sharp intake of breath or flutter of your eyelids. his fingers pump in and out of your cunt, steady and consistent, bumping against that spongy spot inside you that makes your vision blur in pleasure. breathy cries leave your lips. there's no strain, nothing rough about the noises you make or the way his tongue lavishes your sensitive bud with kitten licks-- it's all soft, almost needy as you try to remain quiet and hide from any intrusive guests.

he's a sight between your thighs. solomon's always so pretty, but there's something about the way he looks right now that makes your core ache with need around his long fingers.

his bunny ears are skewed in two different directions. one is angled towards you while the other looks left. his vest is long discarded, draped hastily over a nearby couch cushion in the rush to touch you. his tie is undone around his neck, and the first few buttons of shirt are undone-- you remember unbuttoning them amidst a feverish kiss before he carefully laid your back against the couch. you're grateful for it now. pretty pink flush coats his ivory skin, creeping up his chest to flood his cheeks with blazing heat.

he pulls away from your clit just enough to catch his breath, the warm of each exhale molten across your sensitive folds. his thumb rubs a teasing circle across the bundle of nerves before caressing it properly, steadily. your hips buck into his hand and he lets out a breathless chuckle.

"how do you feel? is this okay?"

both of you know the answer to that-- judging by the way your hand clamps over your mouth to silence your noises, the twitching of your cunt around his fingers, you can both assume he's doing an excellent job. but there's a vulnerability to the way he asks, a neediness that leaks through even with the self-satisfied grin he's wearing.

does this feel good for you? do you want to stay back here with me? is this orgasm worth abandoning your party for? am i worth choosing over everyone else you could be with tonight?

"more than okay," you breathe. "fuck-- i want you, sol. wanna cum, wanna feel you inside me, i-- please."

you do not have to tell him twice.

heat flares in his cheeks, and his eyes flick away momentarily before he leans in and resumes his work. his fingers scissor inside you now, stretching your inner walls to prepare you while sucking on your clit. your thighs clamp around his head, but his pace never halts or stutters-- the needy dig of your feel between his shoulder blades awakens something within him.

he needs you. badly.

it's not long after his pace reaches a fever pitch that your muffled cries do too. your thighs quiver and tense around his head again and again, practically begging for release, until your inner walls tighten and cum leaks across his knuckles. the pace of his fingers slowly until the obscene squelching quiets to quiet, slick noises of him pumping in and out, in and out, until he's sure your orgasm is over. solomon pulls them out carefully and leans in to kiss you.

then he freezes. both of your bodies stiffen against each other. his hand comes down to the hem of your skirt, previously yanked up to give him better access to your core, and yanks the garment down before sitting up.

the click of the door opening makes fear shoot down your spine.

"... i figured i'd find you here."

lucifer's imposing silhouette obscures the strobing lights of the party outside. you can somewhat make out his facial expressions, but it's not like you need them-- you can tell he's upset from the moment the door swings open.

"sorry," solomon chirps. you can hear the smug grin in his voice, see the way he waves his hand, aloof, like the smell of sex doesn't hang heavy in the air. "i meant to lock that door earlier. didn't want any guests intruding tonight."

"what is going on in here?" lucifer asks sharply. his ruby eyes narrow in the low light.

"oh, i don't think you need to ask that. i think you know."

solomon's fingers glisten in the low light. gossamer strings of your arousal coat his fingers, dripping like molasses down his digits. there's a few seconds of thick tension in the air before his lips part and his tongue laves the cum off his fingers. it's a dirty move-- lucifer's whole body stiffens in the door way. heat burns inside your stomach when they slip into his mouth with a moan. his tongue swirls sloppy around them, lapping up every last drop of the pleasure he gave you, never once bothering to look away from the demon in the door way.

"you're a disgrace," lucifer spats, words sharp and accusatory.

"come on, lucifer," solomon cooes, like he's attempting to pacify the angry avatar instead of rub salt further into his wound. "all in good fun, right? all for mc's special day."

silence.

"mc, come join us. my brothers are looking for you."

"unfortunately, lucifer, we're not quite done yet. isn't that right, mc?"

there's two sets of eyes on you. ruby rage from across the room, wings puffed like his chest as he beckons you to rejoin the rest of the group. cold steel close by, flickering with a warmth that makes your stomach tighten and your knees weak. your body and mind are not on the same side as you glance between the two.

"lucifer?" you finally start.

"hmm?"

"... shut the door on your way out, please."

[i-dreamed-i-had-a-son]

My (crack) theory is that Inho studied the footage from the last time Ginhu played, especially EVERYTHING Sangwoo did wrong and then did it ALL right to mess with Ginhu.

Sangwoo was out for himself (which got more and more obvious), while Inho was always supportive, even "playing" the bad guy during the second voting, so Ginhu wouldn't get hated on by the other players. He was always looking out for all the women and elderly, even saving his friend during the mingle game.

Youngil's death will haunt Ginhu, and then make him question it all once he finds out the truth.

(If the show is as crazy as I think it is, it will be Ginhu vs Inho in the last game, probably by design of the VIPs to make things more exciting and also to test Inho's loyalty. Inho will play for his brother's life, while Ginhu will play for the lives of the remaining players).

I can absolutely see that as realistic! Especially the aspect of In-ho being an "anti-Sang-woo" in some ways. Sang-woo became more obviously self-interested over the course of the games, culminating in open antagonism between him and Gi-hun, one of his oldest friends. In-ho most certainly would have noted how much trust Gi-hun placed in Sang-woo because of their relationship, and what actions on Sang-woo's part had broken that trust.

That's why, where Sang-woo voted to continue and never spoke to Gi-hun about it, In-ho approached him to explain his reasoning. Sang-woo figured out that the game would be Dalgona and chose not to tell Gi-hun, but In-ho informed the team of the final number for Merry-Go-Round. Sang-woo verbally berated a man grieving the loss of his wife, whereas In-ho physically defended a weaker player from two bullies.

Most critically, Sang-woo became more distant from Gi-hun over the course of the games, pairing himself with Ali over Gi-hun and refraining from sharing his thoughts. He solidified his own belief that he had to continue until Gi-hun couldn't convince him otherwise, culminating in his murder of Sae-byeok. But In-ho deliberately opens up more the longer the games go on, sharing the story of why he is (and really was) in the games. They work together throughout all the games. He allows Gi-hun to "win" and convince him that the games must be stopped, and when the vote comes down to him again, he votes X; he even saves Gi-hun's life by shooting the guards. He builds trust in all the ways that Sang-woo had destroyed it.

And yet it's still not enough for Gi-hun to choose him as his partner for the control room breach--Gi-hun, unlike last time, chooses his old friend over his new teammate. Based on his reaction (tensing his jaw and a tongue pulse), I don't believe In-ho expected this; he'd anticipated his groundwork would have been sufficient to win Gi-hun's trust, despite Jung-bae not betraying him as Sang-woo had.

In this, we can see that perhaps Gi-hun is more complex than In-ho had expected. In-ho seems to view him, as Sang-woo did, as simple-minded and naïve, "delusional" to think that trust and relationships mean anything, or that people are good. But by trusting Jung-bae, Gi-hun got much closer to the control room than he likely would have had In-ho come with him. Gi-hun placed his trust in the person who wouldn't betray him, like he did with Sae-byeok, and because of that, he almost succeeded; In-ho's betrayal would have failed, just as Sang-woo's did.

But whereas Sang-woo was just a contestant, on an (ostensibly) "fair" playing field, In-ho--like the 001 before him, Oh Il-nam--has the system behind him. So he too was able to fake his own death, and once again leave Gi-hun with "innocent" blood on his hands. Then, like Sang-woo did, he betrays Gi-hun and kills the friend that was trusted more than him--except this time he does it without destroying their relationship, because Gi-hun doesn't know who he is. And he makes Gi-hun watch. He succeeds in every way Il-nam did, and in every way Sang-woo had failed.

But while mostly In-ho parallels Il-nam and represents the "anti-Sang-woo," there is one thing he and Sang-woo share which might redeem him at the end. Although he helped Gi-hun survive the games, Il-nam ultimately wanted him to fail. He spends his last moments hoping and believing that Gi-hun had lost: that it was foolish and pointless to trust in humanity's goodness. Sang-woo, on the other hand, actively fights against Gi-hun at the conclusion of the games; but at the last, Sang-woo saw that Gi-hun was right--or at least that he himself was wrong--and kills himself to allow Gi-hun to live. He wanted Gi-hun to win.

And so does In-ho.

Buried within In-ho is a desire to be proven wrong that Il-nam did not share. Some part of him, which he has not yet accepted, wants Gi-hun to be right. If he can accept it before the end--if he can become less of Il-nam and a little more Sang-woo--perhaps it will be enough for him to become himself again.

[absolutebl]

This Week in BL - a shocking upset to the rankings

Organized, in each category, by ones I'm enjoying most at the top.

Nov 2023 Wk 4

Ongoing Series - Thai

My Dear Gangster Oppa (Thurs iQIYI) ep 5 of 8 - It remains absolutely delightful. We already knew this pair does boyfriends damn near perfectly. It’s a pleasure to watch them as a couple, coupling all over our screen. The relationship does feel a bit rushed but frankly I like the pacing, it’s kind of Korean style which makes sense considering the original IP. 

The Sign (Sat YT) ep 1 of 10 - You know what this is? It’s FUN is what it is. I haven’t felt this way about a BL in a while. Sure is has an uneven story, fight sequences, pacing, and acting but still… yay! Billy is great, he very good at thirst. It’s a crime Lee Long Shi isn’t in this, but otherwise weeeeeeeeee!

(Also was that Bangsean I spotted?)

Last Twilight (Fri YT) ep 3 of 12 - The montage of them learning and training together was so stinking cute I can hardly contain myself. Plus a little language play? (Did you catch the added “na” on to thank you? Gah! So sweet.) Have mercy. I love the banter that these two can execute so smoothly. It reminds me the most of TayNew back in their Kiss days. Or Nanon & Ohm in Bad Buddy.

There’s this breezy casualness to friendships and long-term relationships that Asian BLs seem to find really hard to execute (I’m thinking about something like Hospital Playlist as the best example). It’s more a friend chemistry than a lover chemistry, although of course it can morph into that.

Anyway, I am waffling, but I’m loving this show. (The bit with the teacher made me cry.) I also really love how much actual Bangkok we’re getting from it for a change. 

Finally... how much did @respectthepetty and I love the pink milk shirt moment? SO MUCH. Color theory, plot devise, fashion, food, and a trope reference all in one. Well done GMMTV! Very well done.

Twins the series (Fri GaGa) ep 4 of 10 - I would like it if we got onto the BL section of this BL. Please and thank you. 

Pit Babe (Fri iQIYI) ep 2 of 14 - it's delightfully trashy, btu slightly less trashy than last week because they introduced AlanJeff who are my new babies of age gap delight and you cannot have them. THEY ARE MINE. Also Way. WAY IS MINE. Also, I decided to do a trash watch.

Bake Me Please (Mon Gaga) ep 1 of 6 - It’s nice. It’s fine. Atmospheric and pretty and full of deserts. What’s not to love? Is it inspired? No. Definitely has an Antique Bakery (play it again, BL). But I do love food based cinema. 

Middleman’s Love (Fri YT & iQIYI ep 3 of 8 - What’s annoying is that this could’ve been so good. It’s a poster child for squandered potential. 

Absolute Zero (Weds iQIYI) ep 9 of 12 - Because of the temporal paradox, and Thai BL not being all that great on narrative consistency anyway, this is a confusing piece as well as a painful one. Now Ongsa seems to be nothing more than a stalker who cries all the time. 

Playboyy (Thurs Gaga) 2 of 14(!) eps - This really feels like Thailand is trying to relive the gory days of Japan's pinks. I wasn’t into it then and I’m certainly not into it now. It’s a mess and weirdly mechanically not sexy. I’ll stay watching it but, like Only Friends, I don’t think I’m gonna warm to it. I just don’t like shows where there are no likable characters. 

Also imma say it, so plug your assears. This is about as deep as a dildo can go. Which is to say, the size queens seem to be finding it more deep than the rest of us who are already bottoming out. Just make sure you're taking adequate lube prep with your psyches.

My Universe (Sun iQIYI) Friends Forever ep 14 of 24 - No thank you. 1/10 

I've decided, for spreadsheet reasons, that each of these is going to be tracked as its own 2 part show.

Ongoing Series - Not Thai

A Breeze of Love (Korea iQIYI) eps 5-6 of 8 - The shopping together scene was absolutely darling. But I’m getting a little frustrated not knowing exactly what happened in the past.

VIP Only (Taiwan Fri Gaga) ep 1-2 of 10 - Of course it starts with the crash into me trope, oh Taiwan. It’s cute enough, I love the support cast, and it’s always nice to have something from my favorite tiny island on my dash. 

You tell me: is it safe?

One Room Angel (Japan Gaga) 6 eps - This one finished. It's an adaptation of Harada’s manga (which I did not like and dnf'd) about a clerk who nearly dies and ends up cohabitating with an angel. Thoughts? Is it sad? Is it meh? TELL ME!

It's Airing But...

The Whisperer (Sun ????) 1 of 10 - Thai horror BL that ALSO involves cheating (what joy is mine). He has dimples (My Ride) but I don't think even that gives me the will. You can tell me how this goes if you can find it.

SHADOW (Thai Gaga) 14 eps - I'm not wild about Thai horror (or horror at all) even one featuring Singto and Fluke. I'm holding off. If told it's good, I'll binge.

7 Days Before Valentine (Weds WeTV) ep 1 of 10 - trailer here, horror-esk. Adapted from y-novel of the same name, directed by Tu (180 Degree) stars Jet (Why You… Y Me?). Giving me Luminous Solution vibes, so I'm waiting to binge if told it's safe.

Beyond The Star (Weds iQIYI) 8 eps - House of Stars meets Boyband. I was NOT impressed with ep one. Waiting to be told if I should bother.

What Did You Eat Yesterday Season 2 AKA Kinou Nani Tabeta? Season 2 (Japan Gaga) 10 eps - I find this series more fun to binge, so I'm waiting until it completes its run.

In case you missed it

I posted 20 BLs with the BEST Thirst! and decided to distinguish the different type son need in BL as follows:

Thirst wants to slide a hand under his waistband right tf now and grind.

Horny wants to rip his clothes off, and probably pop buttons and laugh about it.

Yearning wants to run both hands up his back while they kiss deeply.

Hunger wants to lift him by the ass and slam him against the wall.

Next Week Looks Like This

(Today) 11/26 Cooking Crush (Sun YT) 1 of 12 - OffGun are back, trailer here. Adapted from the novel “Love Course! เสื้อกาวน์รุกเสื้อกุ๊กรับ” by iJune4S this is about Prem who runs a not-so-popular restaurant with 2 friends. About to go on a cooking competition with a huge reward, Prem gets involved with Ten, a stressed-out med student who wants Prem to teach him to cook.

11/30 For Him (Thurs iQIYI) ep 1 of 10 - high heat trailer From the people who brought us Unforgotten Night (please no) based on a y-novel, man nursing a heartbreak has a one-night stand, but the other boy didn't want it to end. It looks terribly trashy so I'm in!

Original 2023 forthcoming BL master post (see comments, some are inaccurate, NOT KEPT UPDATED).

THIS WEEK’S BEST MOMENTS

Look at how gd cute they are!

Ah yes... (both Last Twilight)

We stan a supportive bestie/brother (orphans together? - not sure on the backstory)

It is a rule universally aknowledged that an cutie in a baceball cap must get his brim tweaked. (all from The Sign)

Way is the best.

I kinda love the BTS for Pit Babe.

(Last week)

[madzilla84]

tits out in plymouth

have returned from the misty arse end of the country where i finally had the chance to meet two tall nerds <3

the m&g was lovely!! they are so sweet, and phil is so so good at keeping things moving along, bless. (i feel like dan would just yap with people all day otherwise; he clocked the "ancient merch" i had (ye olde phandom member wristband) and we (all 3) ended up talking about The Passage Of Time until phil was like :) would you like us to sign that for you? :) at my photocard it was so funny. but they are both just such sweet and kind and gentle presences, i dunno. it was just. really nice :)

i also think the way they run m&gs is so amazing, having been to lots of others at cons etc; if you want you can be filmed meeting them and then sarah gives your phone to dan to take your pics when the time comes. what a cool idea!!

i also LOVED the show itself of course; i had managed to remain almost completely unspoiled so i had quite a few moments where my brain almost exploded. 'oh they're just saying that huh?? just - saying that. on stage. okay!!' it was SO SO FUNNYYYY and almost felt too short because i was enjoying it so much.

i'm going again next weekend in london (not to m&g, just the show) which is amazing because it was so much that i think i've already forgotten things haha. can't wait to see it again!!

oh and my shiny VIP photo card was very cute as you can see. i bought 3 regular packs and 2 of them were identical, rip. so i will have trades in london!!

[jazziwritesthings]

Missing You - Bang Chan

Purely a work of Fiction.

Word Count: 2,100

Pairings: Bang Chan x Reader

Warnings: Miscarriage mention, angsty

All dialogue is in Korean unless otherwise specified.

A/N: Recently got into Stray Kids and needed to write some Channie, there isn't nearly enough. Also, Part 2?

********

Your POV

Screaming filled your ears as you watched the boys enter the stage. Your eyes immediately searching for your ex-love. He still held your heart even though he was completely unaware. The breakup was messy. You couldn’t stand all the hate you were getting just because he chose to love you. He didn’t want that and said stuff to fans but nothing seemed to stop the damage to your mental health. It became so bad that you decided the best course of action was to leave. That was the last thing Chan or any of the guys wanted. They all loved you and loved having you around. Not only were you the love of Chan’s life, you were the boy's best friend. You became part of their small family and had a place in each of their hearts. While you weren’t able to keep in touch with Chan as it was too painful, you managed to keep in contact with a few of the guys. That’s how you were here. Hannie had texted you as soon as he found out they were performing near home. He got you VIP tickets and everything. You told him that you weren’t sure you’d be able to show up. Never fully committing until about 4 hours ago. So here you stood. All dressed up waiting to see your family. It’d been almost 3 years since you broke up with Chan, and you finally followed each other on socials again, thanks to the guys.

As the concert ended a guard came out of the back and nodded to you. Making sure you weren’t spotted had become a secret skill you developed over the years. You made your way over to him and showed him your badge to identify yourself. He slowly led you around the darkness backstage. You heard them before you saw them. All just standing around. Hannie kept looking around hopeful, he was the first to spot you. “Y/N!” Before you knew it he was running at you and lifting you off the ground in a hug. You giggled as you hugged him tightly back, “ Hi Hannie.” Before your feet touched the ground the others were surrounding you, each calling that they were next to hug you.

After hugging all of them, only one remained. He hadn’t joined the group in running over to you. Not what you had hoped. They were all talking so fast you were having issues understanding everything. Then the voice you missed so much cut through the air, “ We should get back home guys.” He wasn’t even going to attempt to say hi? Your heart plummeted. Maybe you really had lost him. Thinking that you lost him completely devastated you, before you dated he was your best friend and he was the person you thought you were going to marry. They all nodded in agreement. You nodded your head, “ Then I better get going-” You were cut off, “ No, you’re coming to hang out. We missed you too much.” Surprised you nodded, “ Alright. Just like old times. I’ll drive and park a few streets away?” Hannie smiled at you as he nodded.

Pulling into an all too familiar parking area you put your car in park and turned it off. You let out a shaky breath not sure if your heart could handle it. Shaking out of the funk you got out and started walking. Luckily their apartments were super close to each other, same floor and everything. All of a sudden standing at their doors you weren’t sure whose to knock on. You used to be able to just use your key and go into 3RACHA’S apartment. You gave the key back when you and Chan broke up. Luckily you didn’t have to make a decision. The door to 3RACHA’s apartment opened and Changbin peaked his head out, “ She’s here!” He hollered back into the apartment before reaching for your wrist and pulling you inside.

Inside the apartment all the guys sat around in the living room, relaxing onto any furniture or the floor. It brought back so many fond memories. You noticed that one was missing and a look crossed your face. The look was noticed immediately by Hyunjin, “ He’s in his room. We hadn’t told him you were going to be there.” That made you groan, “ Guys!” Seungmin put his hands up in surrender, “ Hey, don’t blame us. He told us not to talk to him about you.” Your shoulders fell as your purse hit the couch and you crossed the room to sit on the floor in front of the couch, “ What?” They all nodded, “What do you mean?”

“ He told us you were a forbidden topic if he was around.” This news made your stomach sink. So he had no idea what you were up to these days. That broke your made up world inside your head, you had always thought that he kept tabs on you like you did him, but no. He couldn’t even stand the topic of you. “You okay Noona?” Your gaze flicked over to I.N. “Yeah, fine.” You smiled at the young Maknae across from you. A hand rested on your shoulder and squeezed. You covered the hand with your own smiling back at Felix behind you on the couch.

You spent the next few hours catching up with the guys, playing games and watching movies. One by one they said their goodbyes and headed to their own rooms within the two apartments. Finally it was just you and Hannie left in the living room. “Shit, it’s like 1 am.” Hannie said all of a sudden. “Crap. I’ll head out.” He shook his head, “ No, stay here. Like old times?” You smiled at him, “ I think I’m too tired to drive anyway.” He smiled and got up and left the room. He came back with 2 pillows and 3 blankets, remembering how you like to sleep. “Thank you Hannie.” He reached down and patted your head, “ Goodnight Y/n.” You got all the pillows situated in the way you liked and quickly fell asleep sprawled out on the living room floor.

You bolted upright, chest heaving, having a hard time catching your breath. You heard fast footsteps and almost immediately a light turned on and someone was staring at you. As your eyes adjusted you realized it was Channie, staring at you in just his boxers. “I’m sorry. Didn’t mean to wake you.” He ran a hand through his hair, “ You still have nightmares?” Letting out the inhale to a deep breath, “ Yeah. They never really went away.” He moved a bit closer, “ They were gone for almost a year.” You nodded, not trusting your voice. “They started again after you left?” A tear falling down your cheek. “ Yeah, uh, the memories of a miscarriage never really go away Channie” The nickname left your mouth without even thinking. He nodded the memories of the aftermath flooding his brain. You hadn’t even known you were pregnant. Then the cramps got really bad, so bad that he rushed you to the ER thinking that maybe your appendix burst or something. They did a lot, but confirmed all the symptoms were because you were having a miscarriage. That was what broke you the most. The news that you miscarried was leaked and everyone was blaming you. It broke you so much you had to leave. You had to let go of the love of your life. “Y/n?”

Hearing your name in his voice brought you back, except this time he was right in front of you holding your hand and talking, “ Breathe. In. Out.” It took you a minute to recognize that you were having a panic attack. They happen a lot these days. Seeing him in front of you made you snap back into reality. You pulled your hand from his and brought your knees to your chest. A defeated look crossed his face. He shook his head, like he was shaking away a thought. Without a word he stood up and walked back to his room, leaving the light on for you.

Chan’s POV

He was sleeping soundly when he heard such a familiar sound that brought him right out of it. He didn’t even think when he got up and ran out to find the noise. That's when he turned on the light and saw you bolt up from the floor. He heard her apologize in that angelic voice of hers. Surprised at the sound of his own voice he asked about her nightmares. They were nonexistent during their last year together. That's when he heard the word. The word that was the cause of everything he loved being taken from him, “The memories of a miscarriage never really go away Channie.” Hearing that name from her lips felt like heaven to him and he hated it. He remembered everything about that day and the weeks that followed were swallowed up with grief over something they never even got to celebrate. By the time he snapped out of the memories he could tell you were having a panic attack. Without thinking he rushed over and grabbed your hand in his. Your soft hands felt so nice against his, oh how he missed you so much. “Breath. In Out.” He found himself instructing you to breathe, must be muscle memory he thought to himself. You seemed to finally snap out of it. You pulled your hand from his and proceeded to make yourself as small as possible, but so far away from him. It felt like his heart broke all over again as you pulled away from him. He felt like he was going to cry so he stood up and walked to his room without another word.

Your POV

You never fell back to sleep after that. You stayed sitting there thinking and thinking. As daylight creeped in through the curtains you heard a familiar door squeak. A small smile graced your lips knowing they never bothered to fix Hannie’s door. “You’re up?” He said as he walked into the kitchen. You didn’t respond, only nodded. A few minutes went by before he was in front of you handing you a steaming mug of coffee. He lowered himself to sit on the floor next to you. “I had a nightmare.” You started without looking up from your mug. You could feel his eyes on you, prompting you to go on. “He came running to me.” This time you looked over to your best friend to see a look of utter surprise on his face. Hannie couldn’t tell you, but sometimes Chan would be calling for you in his sleep. Especially while on tour. But he felt like it wasn’t his place to tell you this. Shifting to face him, “I never told you what made us break up for good did I?” Hannie shook his head. Sure, the rumor of the miscarriage was heard but he knew if you were pregnant, you would have told him. He watched as you set your mug on the side table.

“I had a miscarriage.” The shock that he felt was indescribable.

“What?”

You pulled your knees to your chest before continuing. “I had a miscarriage, Hannie. We didn’t even know I was pregnant at the time. It got out and the fans, they were ruthless. I couldn’t take it and neither could he. I couldn’t stand to see how upset he was all the time. So, I thought the best thing to do was leave.” His heart broke for both of his best friends.

“Why on earth would you think that?!”

“SHH. Hannie.”

“No, why? It’s not like you stopped loving him, right?” The look in his eyes he was hurt, not only for you but for Chan and how heartbroken he was after you left.

Taking a deep breath you closed your eyes, "Sometimes it's not that you stop loving them, but you know they deserve better so you let them go. Although it was for the best it still doesn't stop the ache in your chest. I miss him Hannie, so fucking much. And seeing him again brought it all back. I don’t think I can do this.”

You didn't know it but someone else was awake and lingering in the hallway listening to your confession to Hannie. Chan held his breath. He missed you too. So much that he didn’t know what to do with himself. Knowing you still loved him gave him the motivation he needed. He knew he needed to get you back, somehow.

[seiberries]

Hiiiiii! Your blog is so cute omg! can I request headcanons about being manager of hakuho (nagi and reo school) school and rero nagi both have a crush on you? please, ignore it if it's uncomfortable request. thank you so much!

AHH thank you thank you!! it’s not uncomfortable at all, so i hope you like this!! <3

hakuho’s manager : hcs

includes: mikage reo, nagi seishiro warnings: none!

after hakuho had a sudden popularity spike due to a certain duo, the coach of the soccer team decided that a manager was required to keep the boys in top shape.

that manager happened to be you, a responsible student, known for being helpful and prompt. you wanted the extra credit.

it didn’t take long before you started getting used to your role, scheduling practice matches and constantly being on stand by.

while you did join just for your grades originally, the universe decided otherwise. two on the team quickly catch your interest, the pair that catches everyone’s interests- mikage reo and nagi seishiro.

unbeknownst to you, you’ve caught theirs as well.

as the team’s star players, it was a guarantee from the get-go that you were going to spend the most time with them. they were the priority during arrangements.

but was this still a part of your job?

reo insisted on treating you for your hard work, bringing you to a high-end ice cream parlor.

you can’t complain, but the act of gratitude somewhat confuses you. he never really does this for anyone, his best friend being an exception. it’s then that the ice cream arrives, distracting you from your thoughts. they could wait until you’ve eaten.

though, this can’t be a part of your job either, you’re sure of it.

a certain seishiro heavy on your back after practice; he isn’t injured or in pain. he just requested to stay there, since it was a bother otherwise. a bother?

what?

you wonder when the boundaries between you all had disappeared; nowadays, you even walk home with them regularly.

oh, you have no idea about what’s actually going on.

mikage reo and nagi seishiro know that they both like you.

it’s to be expected, since the two are inseparable. they know when something is off about the other, just from the slightest change.

when the mikage asks about it, things become clear as daylight. there was no doubt, a mutual understanding was shared that day.

and so, a slightly petty war commenced. scratch slightly, it was really petty, on both ends.

reo would spoil you with everything, and more; your christmas is basically everyday. he’d take you to expensive places, ones that need a reservation months beforehand. he’d buy you vip tickets for concerts, despite the event being sold out weeks ago. “his love for you is like his card, it has no limits.” (if you get this reference, ily!)

nagi would sweep you away whenever the company heir had to attend to his responsibilities. he sticks to you like glue, the boy consistently clings. his head on your head, his chest pressed against your back- he’d share his warmth with you. he especially enjoys when you play together, regardless as to whether or not you’re any good. he’s simply content being next to you.

if reo buys you a new bag, nagi brings you to the arcade.

if nagi rests his head on your lap, reo has something made for you.

back and forth, forth and back, their efforts to win you over appear obvious as time goes on. they’re very persistent.

you know that something is going on at this point, not that you know what “something” is, yet.

when it’s the three of you hanging out- they act normally, in all fairness. your friendship as a trio remains the same.

it’s when either is left alone with you that they compete for your affections. fully aware that it’s your choice in the end, they see no harm in being convincing.

”do you have a moment? there’s somewhere i want to bring you, and something i need to tell you.”

”hey y/n... i have something to say. you won’t mind... right?”

good luck to you, who is in between two incredibly stubborn boys.

both are used to getting what they want, without fail. the question is, who do you want?

[bangtanhoneys]

GRACE TOUR Diary - March 17th 2025, Seoul

It was two days before her tour officially started.

Grace wasn’t going to shy away from the fact that her stomach was in knots and she was getting very little sleep due to nerves. Her mind was in constant turmoil over things that may go wrong, something may happen, this thing might happen, this costume may not fit. Her team had planned for everything and anything including weather, backup costumes, backup shoes, and even a backup team.

Nothing could go wrong yet her brain was thinking otherwise.

Her days started early, around 6am, with a couple of meetings with her team (affectionately known as the Queen’s Guard), then it was vocal rehearsals then dance practice and depending on the day, a couple of hours in the gym to get her stamina up while singing.

She hadn’t performed on her own before, especially for a two hour concert. There was no opening act, no other acts on as support - it would just be her, the band and the dancers.

To keep the crowd entertained.

A crowd that probably had come to see her fail.

That was one of her worries - it wasn’t that ARMY wasn’t going to turn up, it was all the haters as well. And not only that, she had seen the list of celebrities who had secured their VIP tickets early. That made her nervous.

And all the dates had sold out fast to the point where extra dates had to be added and the two last dates in Seoul had sold out within minutes, including the VIP tickets for idols, celebrities, and politicians.

It would be her peers carefully watching - wondering if she could perform on her own, if she could handle the weight, if she could handle her own songs, choreography, high notes and costumes. She’d be fine once the first song was done because after that, who gave a shit.

But for now, it was the constant thoughts that were keeping her up all hours of the night.

Seokjin & Hobi were home from the military now and they had been constant support, checking in and being there for whatever meeting or practice was taking place while dealing with their own schedules and plans. The others had been checking in as well through phone calls and texts, keeping an eye on the progress.

Her eyes stared at the night sky from where her curtains were open and if she listened carefully, she could hear some of the population of Seoul still going even at three in the morning. She had gotten about four hours of sleep and she had to be up in an hour to get showered and ready to head over to HYBE for a final day of rehearsals.

The weight of her cat next to her pressed into her side and she reached over, running a hand down the soft white fur. At least one of them was getting his beauty sleep. Seeing as there was no point, Grace carefully got out of bed and padded over to the bathroom. There were bags starting to form under her eyes, so that meant the make up team were going to complain, but the hot shower helped relax her muscles. Her newly dyed hair had stayed it’s amazing shade of blonde and she kept forgetting about it until it caught her eye in the mirror. That had been Seokjin’s suggestion - new hair colour for a new era.

She had a small breakfast and filled up Min-Ji’s food and water bowls, taking her small cup of tea to the living room where she plonked herself on the couch. The news played in the background as she pulled her phone off charge, seeing if there were any updates from anyone but the messages remained silent.

“With two days to go, fans are already queuing for merchandise and to experience what HYBE has put on in terms of a festival around the Gocheok Sky Dome. BTS’ Grace Chu will start her first solo tour here before heading over to Los Angeles and the rest of the world. The In My Head Tour has already sold out across the globe and no tickets are available, anywhere. However, HYBE has offered live streaming of the last two Seoul dates for those who have missed out on what is expected to be the tour of the year,” the newscaster said on the TV, catching Grace’s attention.

The program showed the tents already lining up and some of the things HYBE had planned, including reruns of RUN BTS episodes, focus solely on Grace and even her BT21 character was around. Fans had the opportunity to take pictures with various cardboard cutouts of her and it warmed her to see how many ARMY bombs were already lit.

“We can’t wait,” one foreign ARMY said once the camera was on her. “I’ve been in Seoul for about three years now and the moment I heard she was planning a tour, I knew I had to buy tickets. She’s my bias and she really inspires me as a woman and as an artist. She’s different from other idols as well - she doesn’t let her career define her or her character and she doesn’t care if she goes against the standards this country sets her in. She’s really an icon of this age.”

Another ARMY appeared, this time a male fan who had one of her t-shirts on. “There are many comments online about how she contrasts against the likes of IU, Blackpink, and she can’t compare really. She’s humble, quiet, unassuming yet insanely talented. I’ve watched so many fancams and videos from fans of other artists and in every one of them she’s consistent. So I’m really looking forward to what she’s going to bring for her solo tour.”

The program returned to the newscaster who showed figures of what income this tour was going to bring to HYBE, Big Hit, the tourism economy and the government. And what the stakeholders' shares were climbing to. All in all, it was going to be a commercial success.

Whether it was going to get the ratings like Yoongi’s and Blackpinks tour, as they were the two being used in comparison the most, that would remain to be seen.

Grace swallowed the last of her tea and stood, stretching out her legs and back. “Well, let’s get this tour on the road then.”

[tirupatitourpackages]

Is VIP Darshan Worth It? A Devotee's Perspective

Tirupati Balaji Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in India. Every day, thousands of devotees flock to the temple, each with a deep spiritual connection and a desire to seek Lord Venkateswara’s blessings. With such a massive influx, waiting times for the regular Darshan can often stretch for hours. This is where VIP Darshan comes into play—but is it really worth it? Let’s explore this from a devotee’s perspective.

What is VIP Darshan?

VIP Darshan, also referred to as Special Entry Darshan, is a privilege offered to devotees that allows faster access to the sanctum sanctorum. With limited tickets available, this option ensures a shorter waiting time, personalized guidance by temple staff, and a smoother Darshan experience.

The most popular type of VIP Darshan is the ₹300 Special Entry Ticket, which can be booked online via the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) website or through trusted providers like Tirupati Balaji Package.

Advantages of VIP Darshan

Reduced Waiting Time

Regular queues can often take 6–10 hours, especially during weekends and festive seasons. VIP Darshan significantly cuts down the wait time, allowing devotees to focus more on their spiritual journey.

Convenience for Families and Elderly

For families with young children or elderly devotees, the VIP Darshan option offers a hassle-free experience. The reduced physical strain makes it especially appealing.

Access to Special Rituals

VIP ticket holders sometimes get the opportunity to witness special rituals or Break Darshan, which are otherwise inaccessible to regular devotees.

Time Efficiency

For those traveling from distant cities like Bangalore or Chennai on tight schedules, VIP Darshan ensures that they can complete their pilgrimage within a day. Several packages from Tirupati Balaji Package are designed to cater to such needs.

Is It Worth the Price?

The ₹300 Special Entry Darshan ticket is reasonably priced, considering the convenience it offers. However, for those opting for other types of VIP access through donations or recommendations, the cost can be higher. Devotees often debate whether this expense aligns with the spiritual essence of the pilgrimage.

From a devotee's perspective, the value of VIP Darshan lies in its ability to provide:

More time for prayers without the exhaustion of standing in long queues.

A stress-free experience, especially for those traveling with specific time constraints or physical challenges.

Things to Keep in Mind

Follow the Dress Code

Traditional attire is mandatory for VIP Darshan. Men must wear dhotis and shirts or kurtas, while women should opt for sarees, salwar suits, or half sarees.

Plan Ahead

VIP tickets are limited and sell out quickly, especially during weekends and festival days. Booking in advance through trusted platforms like Tirupati Balaji Package is highly recommended.

Respect Temple Etiquette

Remember that VIP Darshan is not just about convenience; it’s an opportunity for a peaceful spiritual experience. Maintain decorum and show respect to the temple staff and fellow devotees.

A Personal Perspective

As a devotee, the choice of VIP Darshan often depends on individual circumstances. While some feel that the extended wait in regular queues adds to the spiritual experience, others believe that VIP Darshan allows them to focus on their prayers without distractions.

For me, the convenience and peace of mind offered by VIP Darshan were invaluable. Booking through Tirupati Balaji Package ensured a seamless experience, from travel to Darshan, making my pilgrimage truly memorable.

Final Verdict

Is VIP Darshan worth it? The answer is subjective and varies for each devotee. If you’re short on time, traveling with family, or simply seeking a stress-free Darshan, VIP Darshan is undoubtedly worth every penny. However, for those who value the traditional pilgrimage journey and don’t mind long waits, the regular queue remains a heartfelt option.

[lifetimenumberseo]

Future-proofing Your Identity: Why Owning a VIP Number Matters in a Competitive World

The digital age has transformed communication into a cornerstone of personal and professional success. Your mobile number serves as a primary point of contact, representing your identity in the virtual realm. In such a saturated market, standing out is essential. VVIP number from Life Time Number provides a rare opportunity to do just that. With their distinctive combinations and memorable sequences, they offer an immediate advantage in capturing attention and leaving a lasting impression.

In a competitive world where networking is key, owning Jio fancy numbers from Life Time Number can open doors that would otherwise remain closed. Whether it's securing lucrative business deals, establishing meaningful connections, or simply standing out in a crowded job market, the exclusivity and prestige associated with a VIP number can be the difference-maker.

Furthermore, as technology continues to advance, the importance of digital identity cannot be overstated. Your mobile number is not just a means of communication; it's a digital fingerprint that links you to various online platforms and services. In this context, owning a VIP number is akin to owning prime real estate in the digital landscape. It ensures that your identity remains secure, recognizable, and easily accessible amidst a sea of competitors.

Moreover, VIP numbers offer a level of customization that goes beyond mere convenience. By choosing a number that aligns with your personal brand or business identity, you are effectively future-proofing your image in the minds of your audience. Whether it's incorporating your name, initials, or a memorable sequence, your VIP number becomes synonymous with your identity, making it easier for others to find, remember, and engage with you.

In essence, owning a VIP number is not just a luxury; it's a strategic investment in your future. By securing a unique and prestigious mobile identity, you position yourself for success in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world. In a landscape where first impressions matter more than ever, owning a VIP number is the ultimate statement of identity, distinction, and foresight.

[pocketbookreferral]

Elevate Your Lifestyle: Why You Should Hire a Celebrity Assistant in LA

Living in the city of stars comes with its own set of demands and for those navigating the high-paced, glittering lifestyle of Los Angeles, having a celebrity assistant can be a game-changer. From managing hectic schedules to handling exclusive events, these assistants are the secret weapon to maintaining a seamless and stylish life.

Unparalleled Network Access

One of the key features of hiring a celebrity assistant in LA is access to an unparalleled network. These assistants often come with a wealth of connections, enabling you to effortlessly secure reservations at the trendiest restaurants, VIP access to exclusive events, and even introductions to influential personalities. In a city where who you know is often as important as what you know, having a well-connected assistant can open doors to opportunities that may have otherwise remained closed.

Time Management Mastery

In the fast-paced world of LA, time is a precious commodity, and a celebrity assistant is your ticket to mastering it. These professionals excel in scheduling and coordination, ensuring that your calendar aligns seamlessly with your priorities. From business meetings to red-carpet events, they take charge of your schedule, allowing you to focus on what truly matters.

Privacy Protection

Maintaining privacy in the spotlight can be a challenge, but a celebrity assistant in LA is well-versed in the art of discretion. Whether it's handling sensitive information or managing paparazzi encounters, these professionals are trained to protect your privacy without compromising your lifestyle. Trust is paramount in this relationship, and a reputable assistant understands the importance of maintaining confidentiality.

Expert Negotiation Skills

In a city known for its high-stakes negotiations, hiring a celebrity assistant in LA with expert negotiation skills is invaluable. Whether it's brokering deals for brand collaborations or securing contracts for upcoming projects, a celebrity assistant in LA possesses the finesse and acumen needed to navigate the competitive landscape of the entertainment industry. Their ability to secure favorable terms ensures that you make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.

Seamless Event Management

LA is synonymous with glitzy events and red-carpet affairs, and a celebrity assistant is your go-to professional for flawless event management. From coordinating guest lists to ensuring that every detail is executed with precision, these assistants have the experience and expertise to turn your events into unforgettable experiences. Whether it's a product launch, a movie premiere, or an intimate gathering, your assistant will handle the logistics, leaving you to enjoy the spotlight.

Hiring a celebrity assistant in Los Angeles is not just a status symbol; it's a strategic decision to elevate your lifestyle. With their unmatched network, time management skills, privacy protection, negotiation prowess, event management expertise, and personalized concierge services, these professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that your life in the City of Angels is nothing short of extraordinary. Top of Form

[news-wtf]

The unanimous opinion written by Justice Elena Kagan allows the liquor maker to revive its trademark lawsuit against VIP Products in lower courts. In the meantime, the “Bad Spaniels Silly Squeaker” toy remains on the market.

At the center of the case is the toy created by VIP Products that is strikingly similar to Jack Daniel’s bottles. The distiller sued the company over the toy – which is replete with scatological humor – claiming it violated federal trademark law, which usually centers around how likely a consumer is to confuse an alleged infringement with something produced by the true owner of the mark.

Though the court’s decision is a win for Jack Daniel’s – which argued that an appeals court made a mistake when it said the toy was “non-commercial” and therefore enjoyed constitutional protection – the justices declined to grant the distiller’s request to completely throw out the test an appeals court used when it ruled in favor of the toy, a move that would have given trademark holders wide latitude to sue companies that parody their marks on consumer goods.

“Today’s opinion is narrow. We do not decide whether the Rogers test is ever appropriate, or how far the ‘noncommercial use’ exclusion goes,” Kagan wrote, adding: “The use of a mark does not count as noncommercial just because it parodies, or otherwise comments on, another’s products.”

Oh fuck me, I forgot it was scotus decision day

[thelastharbinger]

Rant time because I’ve seen some truly ugly takes on Squid Game (2021) but this has to be the most tone deaf:

A prominent reaction YouTube channel host posted a video today saying [about the season ending scene at the airport gate] Gi-hun has no reason to be upset at the Squid Games because everyone chose to go back knowing they were going die, and what is he [Gi-hun] offering them as an alternative to the games??? Note: this person was not agreeing with the existence of the games, but the point they were trying to make was that, since everyone “consented”, our protagonist’s anger towards the games is unfounded. Like...folks, where do we begin with this?

Let me explain something for the number of you who do not yet seem to get it: at no point in the show is there any real consent. Yes, even after the players are made aware of the deadliness of the competition. The repeated presentation of “consent” is a fallacy. And here is why. Because when we are talking about disenfranchised peoples whose resources, opportunities, life chances are incredibly low, and who otherwise, in this situation, have no viable alternatives, no “decision” made is one of absolute agency. For example, Sang-woo’s course paths were to either be incarcerated for embezzlement or try to survive the games where, may I remind, no one is informed that the games are manipulated for there to only ever be one survivor at the end, as has been shown in the records from all the previous years. They are made to believe there can be multiple victors, so long as you win all six rounds, not knowing that the games are designed for there to be one sole champion because it’s easier to keep tabs on one person when they re-enter the world than several. But back to Sang-woo.

When you are in such dire straits as he’s in, where you are choosing from fucked to even more fucked, he is really just going from either being subjected to the game or the prison industrial complex and criminal justice system. When the stakes are literally life and death, consent becomes a gimmick because it doesn’t really exist, it is a pretense. Gi-hun elects to remain a contestant because his diabetic mother will die without the much needed hospitalization that they are unable to cover the costs for. Even Deok-su is being hunted by the mafia. All of the participants are being acted upon. Everyone’s livelihood is at stake both in and out of the arenas, and in a game where 456 walk in and only 1 walks out, what really is the game offering? The VIPS, the Front Man, the recruiters--all of them are predating upon the poor. Each of these contestants were hand selected, observed and manipulated because they knew those at the very bottom of the barrel are already on the brink. And decisions made out of desperation, anxiety, panic, and life threatening conditions are not the same we’d make if we otherwise felt supported and secure in our other areas of life because we are hard-wired to want to survive no matter the costs.

Now, getting at this bullshit take of what is Gi-hun offering that the games are not (besides, you know, their fucking lives!). First off, it is not Gi-hun’s job to offset the imbalances and inequities of capitalism because that is ultimately what the true enemy is. The Games are a microcosm of this. Gi-hun alone cannot fight back against an entire system. It is also not his job to terminate the games but because he feels guilt as what he acquired was simply blood money, he steps up in his new-found privileged position to do what he feels is right against what he cannot forgive. So actually, I take it back. Maybe it is his responsibility in the same way rich folks have a responsibility to un-hoard wealth and repair poverty because in free market economies, you only get impoverished populations as the expense of the upper class. There will always be people at the bottom, there have to be for capitalism to sustain itself.

Gi-hun absolutely has reason to be enraged; the fact that I have to explain this is mind-boggling! Hundreds of people knee-deep in debt die annually, people who are being exploited like Ali or who are given no real chance in society like Sae-byeok and her family (look into the way North Koreans are integrated into South Korean society and how they’re basically not. When they arrive they face intense prejudice and discrimination). Now that I think about it, how is it that the government or IRS hasn’t caught onto this every year? Unless that’s how far deep it all goes? Also, the way debt works, if you die and loans remain unpaid, your kin inherits that burden and have to pay off your mess. Just another way that this game intergenerationally fucks people over atop separating people from their loved ones without families ever knowing why. None of it is fair! The games pretend to be twistedly altruistic, but it makes false promises. These people are nothing other than cattle being led to slaughter.

Side note: the only nerd culture reaction channel I co-sign is Heroes Reforged, if you need a recommendation. I only mention this because it was one of these reaction channels that mainly does superhero content that came out with the take I open with and refute. It’s led by 2 men of color and their token white friend. But they’re one of the only YT reaction channels who talk about things like Marvel, DC, comics, and other movie franchises in a really informed way that is intersectional, are not afraid to get “political” (you’d be surprised how many comic book nerds and anime fans don’t like when their content becomes sociopolitical commentary), and I promise their takes won’t make your head split because some of these really popular channels I just look at like, how your brain do that?

[draslihanxfahri-bailey]

At Chey's offer, she quickly shook her head. "No, no, it's all good! Truly, I want to spoil you and treat my dear friend like an absolute princess." With the Bailey family wealth, her own personal income, and the savings she's been working on for nearly two decades, Aslihan could more than handle affording such an elaborate meal. Though, that was also where her guilt came from: she could pay for every person in town, in the state of Colorado—oh, who's she kidding?—the entire North American continent, to have an even more elaborate meal than what her and Chey are having right now and it wouldn't even cause a dent in her account. Meanwhile, she knew that there were people who struggled to afford a pack of dry noodles and a can of sauce.

Of course, being her parents' daughter, she grew up with philanthropy. Of helping out the best she can, no matter what. Of honouring and committing to tikkun olam: repairing the world. Yet Asli knew that she could do so much more. And she tries to, she genuinely tries to. Every single day, one way or another.

Though honey bourbon has remain her drink of choice for as long as she could drink, she knew that there was a time and place for others. And tonight, felt like a Crane Brothers Distillery whiskey night. And after what her and Cheyenne have been through, no matter how different their circumstances were, they deserved to have a little treat. To enjoy the delicious blend and to have a giddy night full of laughter. To remember that, yes, life was full of good and delicious moments. It wasn't just sadness, pain, and confusion; Sometimes, it can also be good food and good whiskey with a beloved friend who absolutely understands you, and whom you understand in return.

Beaming brightly, the smaller brunette hummed in thought. "To us," she decided. Dark brown eyes glancing over at Chey's golden hues. "To our strength. To us surviving our worse days, even when it felt like otherwise. To our friendship and having each other." Her smile only grew more as she giggled, feeling poetic. "To the stardust in our bones and the stars we come from, why not!" she exclaimed with laughter.

Yet, truly, she was proud of their strength. It hasn't been easy. God, sometimes, listening to the dark thoughts that surrounded her own head sounded easy and much more simple. But it wasn't an option. Not when her family and the idea of all the good things life could over was still a possibility.

Having those she loved by her side made the prospect of going through those rough, horrible days easier. Frightening still, yes. But doable. And she hoped that Cheyenne felt the same way.

Watching the theologist visibly relax at her touch helped her to relax as well. She listened, quiet as she nodded along. Her eyebrows, however, soon quirked up at the mentioning of Max's name. "He has?" Yet, as easily as her surprise came to her, so did her curiosity. A playful smile soon appearing on her lips while her head tilted. Looking up at Chey with a sparkle in her eyes. "Annnd? Has him being here... also brought anything else new to your life?"

Searching her eyes, her smile only grew wider. "Did I ever tell you that the first time I met Max, I thought he was an intruder in Kat and Austin's place and I nearly chucked eggs at him?" Not one of her finest moments. Though it did cause some laughter between her and the tall man now.

With how sore of a topic their connection could be, it was easy to move to a topic that wouldn't cause them pain. That could make them excited and full of ideas. Of course, it was something that perhaps one could consider to be mundane, but wasn't that also one of the beauties in life? Finding enjoyment in finding ways to still see your friend and plot out ways to make it happen? Swallowing down her bite, she nodded with excitement. "Of course! I'd be more than happy to give you the full VIP treatment. We're already adding some updates from when the wing opened back in 2022 and they should be done soon. One of them is a VR simulator that takes guests on the journey through the Duat to receive Judgement and make it to the Field of Reeds. I was completely inspired by the Immersive Beyond King Tut experience and those immersive movie theaters; Our testers love it so far!"

Of course, as excited as she was for the new wing, the History of Egypt Wing would forever remain her pride and joy concerning her career. Though, getting to do something new and it still being something within her specialties made it all worth it as well. "Okay, without giving too much away: it's going to be a wing about the Ancient Mediterranean world. I'm hoping that in the future, and if we'll get to expand the museum more, to eventually have some more wings to go in full depth of each civilization, their histories and cultures, with the Ancient Mediterranean wing being a stepping stone into them. There's still a lot to figure out and it could take even a decade before it's fully come to life, but that's the overall goal right now." And it was one that she was more than excited to see through.

Talking about Eli was one of top easiest things for her to do. It wasn't hard for her to starting blushing while she gushed about the man who held her heart. The man who was more than her boyfriend and father of her child at this point. "I've been thinking about our future a lot lately and... I'm certain that I'm going to marry him at some point. I barely even refer to him as my boyfriend at this point; It's always either 'my partner' or 'my husband'. I'm not expecting us to get married soon or anything, but when the time's right, I'd like make it legal. I'm in love with him and I'm ready to spend the rest of my life with him."

Falling in love, for the scholar, had been a foreign concept for the longest time. Between her studies and her desire to create her dream career for herself, she never in thought of opening her heart. Yet, in the past eight years, that changed. Multiple times.

Biting on her lower lip and setting her own plate aside, part of her wanted to nod whereas the other part of her wanted to shake her head. The first few instances had taken her completely by surprise, especially the very first one where she'd been consumed with anger and heartbreak and confusion that she hadn't felt in years. But the aquarium where he reunited with Alex and met Rhia... It hadn't been too bad. Though it wasn't the slightest bit easy. How could a situation like theirs be?

"Jesse," she said. The name sounding foreign from her lips, almost out of practice after spending so long refusing to say it. "Um, Jesse El-Massalamy. He's a barista at the Midnight Club. We... We were seeing each other the first few months back in 2021 after he moved into town." Even recounting the basics sound strange. Like any moment, her hand was going to reach up and forcibly stop her from revealing anymore. The last people she had talked to about him, aside from Aysel, had been back in 2021 throughout their time together: Eli and Ray. The irony not lost on her, though made her wince remembering.

Laughing rather lifelessly, she nodded slightly. "You could say that... He ghosted me after awhile. We were getting closer, I was starting to talk about him to some friends, he met Alex a few times... I was starting to fall in love with him. It was the first time after Atlas that I was beginning to feel that way and with how complicated everything was concerning Atlas, I was scared. But, I was also becoming excited, because I felt really happy with him. Then he just... disappeared. Stopped answering my calls and texts, completely avoiding me, and I spent years believing that he left town. Only to find out back in September that he never left."

The Egyptologist pressed her lips together. There were many emotions when it came to Jesse. Many questions that left her tugging at her hair that she wanted answered by the Egyptian desperately. "I want to know why," she declared. Looking back at Chey before continuing: "I want to know why he thought abandoning me without talking to me was the best option. I want to know what I did wrong. I... I want to know if he left because he knew that I was starting to feel something stronger and that he didn't feel the same way. I just want to know why he left me like that. I've already moved on from him, but I need to move on from why he left. Because not knowing if it was me has left me frustrated and angry and confused and heartbroken, and I don't... want to feel that way anymore."

Pausing, a thought came to her head and she laughed. "I want to know so that I can thank him as well," she admitted. "Because if he hadn't left, I never would've dated Ray. And if I hadn't dated Ray and if we hadn't ended up not working out, I might have never been with Eli. We wouldn't have our life together, our family, our future. And because of him, and Ray, and even Atlas, I found my way to Eli. I found my soulmate in my best friend. The father of my daughter. The man I want to spend the rest of my life with. And, in some miraculous way, I owe it to Jesse. Whatever reason he had to break my heart, it led me to having this life I have now. A life that I can't imagine myself without." Aslihan shook her head. Feeling like a goose, yet also feeling relieved to admit it. "Maybe I'm crazy. But it's true. Or, maybe, Jesse and I wouldn't have work out in the end, but I still found my way to Eli. I don't know. All I know is that, because he broke my heart, I was given a chance to love Eli and be loved by him. And I could never ask for anything else." All she was certain was that: she knew she would've found her way to Elijah. One way or another. ||📜@cheyohara

The anthropologist's concern over how much food she'd purchased and brought over put a little smile on the professor's lips. With a growing family and the economy unstable it was understandable the concern her friend had. "I wont mention a thing but let me Venmo you for half of this. You've got a whole family you're providing for." Not that she was discounting all of what Eli put into their relationship, their household, and children— Chey actually considered the couple to be a unit and meant the both of them in her statement. "You don't have to shoulder the cost of all of this. Especially since I plan to pig out on it."

The whiskey was a nice touch and while the brunette was a beer girl through and through, the dark amber only added an element of this all being quite the treat for her. Life had gone so many directions as of late. Not only was she in recovery from an horrific loss, finding a way to move on with the man she was in the midst of something with, but there was also the bullying older brother making his way back into the picture.

Wasting no time, Chey loaded up on a little bit of everything that Asli had brought with her. The spread of it all looked incredible. Quickly, the podcaster got up and fetched some tumbler glasses for the whiskey and rejoined her friend on her couch. "Should we toast to something," Chey asked while reaching for the special edition bottle.

Every since tragedy struck the brunette had been doing her best to mask all that she had been going through. Few people knew of the loss because the professor couldn't bare saying it over and over again. The sympathy and care she received would've been so intolerable at first, felt so undeserved given that Chey felt for a long while that it was her fault.

Maybe she still did.

The comforting gesture atop her hand eased her shoulders and soothed what was bubbling to the surface. Briefly her thumb smoothed over Aslihan's fingers then she gave them a gentle squeeze. "It's been a tough road but thankfully I didn't end up doing it alone. I haven't really said much to anyone but since Max is moved in with me at this point, I have to acknowledge all that he's done for me. He deserves all the credit for me being back on my feet and functioning again." Which Chey said and meant with her whole heart.

Then there were friends like Aslihan. Supportive, understanding, knowing. What would she have done without that?

Still, there was only so much the podcaster could touch on before the foundation she was building would crack. It prompted Chey to appreciate her friend all the more when she eased into another topic of conversation. She knew they'd get to the depths and heart of what really hurt, but they didn't need to rush it. Listening to Asli's idea, she nodded emphatically, and pointed messy fingers coated with food at the petite brunette. Once she grabbed a napkin, she gave praise, "that's an excellent idea! I've been really wanting to follow you around and see all of what you've been working on. Get a behind the scenes type of scoop."

With her head leant to the side, Chey chewed and swallowed her next bite. Maybe even sounded a hum of appreciation for the flavors in her mouth. "Tell me more about your new exhibit. If you can. I'd love to hear what you're curating next." What she loved even more was learning that Asli and Eli were going strong. Though, the anthropologist mentioning the reoccurring run-ins with an ex piqued the professor's interest in a different way. Brow raised, food lowered, "this doesn't sound like it's a pleasant thing. Who..."

It didn't feel right to just ask and try to extract the information to satiate her own curiosities. Perhaps even some concerns. Not when Aslihan seemed uneasy about it. Something really shook her about this reunion with this particular ex and it had Chey shifting forward to move a little closer. "So... this was a bad ending kind of ex," she stated, a nod of her head. "Sounds like the wounds are deep. The kind that can only be cured one way."

Sometimes Chey felt like an expert on heartbreak and pain but her relationships had been a bit more limited due to her traumas and insecurities.

"Wait... so you've run into him a few times and also an ex of his?" The mix of feelings that would stir felt almost palpable. "What happened with him? I'm so sorry you've had this hurt resurface in your life." / @draslihanxfahri-bailey