#she's nice and has nothing against me whatsoever

[ad-astra-per-aspera-1389]

out loud, my catchphrase is probably something akin to "or ignore me. that's cool too" but internally it's a very bitter "okay...I know when I'm no longer appreciated"

[phagodyke]

SUDDENLY STARTED RAINING SO HARD WE ARE SO FUCKING BACK

[nereidprinc3ss]

okay i know this is kind of a specific request but can you do something with professor Spence and uni reader where they get into a spat and argue bc she did something stupid and he gets mad and she’s like “noooo pls don’t be mad i hate when you’re mad at me I’m sorry🥺” bc she literally cannot function knowing she let him down (me with everybody) but he’s like super stubborn and goes all closed up and quiet so that he doesn’t like blow up on her until she finally says like “pls talk to me” and he’s all pissed and like “hell na bitch u crazy!🗣️‼️” but then later he’s like “it’s ok i love u but neva do that shit again ho” then they make up and it’s good again ���� ok i explained that so poorly (and comedically if i may) but i hope u get it and pls make it SO DRAMATIC bc I live for drama! like she steals test answers or something or does something that could like get her kicked out of school OR him lose his job 🤔 sigh … idk I’m leaving now. Also i LOOPOOOCE ORRKGOOVI love your fics. Luv em

hey girl (gender neutral) this made me laugh bc genuinely sometimes i write spencer so ooc that is what he sounds like. and i'm not sorry! anyway this is potentially a vyvanse fueled nightmare but i wrote it and i'm posting it MY BLOG MY RULES BITCHESSSS!!!! but genuinely read the content warning LMAO this one got a lil kick to it

warnings/tags: ANGST, HURT/COMFORT, fem!reader, spencer and r get into a for real argument like they're mean to each other, spencer is a lil toxic but its resolved, emotionally neglects reader just for a teeensy second but then he's really nice and sweet again, discussion of his past addic+ion, gets fluffy because i'm not EVIL, gets suggestive at the end bc i am secretly evil.......

a/n: i don't know whats happening. this confuses me just as much as it confuses you. its 3 am in the morning. im gonna post nice happy things soon. Gootbye

“I cannot believe you right now. I don’t even—I don’t even know what to say.” 

“Spencer, you don’t have to say anything. It has nothing to do with you, and I’m not looking for your approval.” 

He looks up from where he’d been rubbing his temples, like you’re a headache, eyebrows raised and lips parted in indignant disbelief. 

“Oh! You’re not looking for my approval? Well thank god for that, because if you were one of my students I would recommend expulsion to the board.” 

“Are you fucking kidding me? I just said I don’t care about your opinion on this, much less your hypothetical opinion from some alternate universe where you have any authority over my education whatsoever.” 

“You distributed an answer key to half of your class! Objectively this is the kind of thing that gets people expelled. I don’t understand how someone so smart could do something so fucking stupid.” 

The words bite more than you were prepared for—but what hurts even more is how much he seems to mean them. In arguments past you’d both said things you didn’t mean, and then would immediately melt into I’m so sorry’s and the fight would resolve itself. Spencer’s clenched jaw and inability to make eye contact with you do not lend themselves to tender apologies. They cannot be attributed to miscommunication. 

You take a step closer to where he’s bracing himself against the countertop, arms crossed defensively in front of your chest. 

“Spencer, I’m sorry. I didn’t think it was such a big deal. People cheat in college all the time.” 

Still no reply. His head shakes so minutely you wonder if you’re imagining it. Panic wells in your chest. 

“Please talk to me. I really hate when you ice me out. I’m sorry, okay? Just... please say something.” 

Finally, his eyes slide to you. They lack the fiery anger of moments ago but there’s not much softness there either. His normally warm gaze now feels too abrasive, too cold and sharp on your bare skin. You're exposed, much too soft for that grating look, and it feels like he can see everything that’s wrong with you. 

“Believe me when I tell you this. I am doing us both a favor by not speaking to you right now.” 

And then he’s leaving the kitchen—nothing but a breeze against your cheek and the sound of a door slamming to prove he was ever there. 

The apartment is silent. You stand in the middle of the kitchen, unsure of what to do next. Spencer very, very rarely gets angry at you to the point of neglect, and you know he’s doing his best with what was modelled for him as a child and his tendency to feel things so deeply it’s nearly disabling; but that doesn’t make it hurt much less. It doesn’t make you feel less abandoned or alone.  

You’re sad, and you’re still pissed, and maybe you’re in just a bit of shock as you robotically move back to your nest of blankets on the couch and resume your schoolwork. What else is there to do? Unless Spencer is right—unless you really are about to get expelled after getting the answer key for an upcoming test from a friend, who then gave it to another friend, and so on. But is that really your fault?  

It’s a struggle to stay focused as your mind keeps drifting back to Spencer in the other room, those cruel words and that cold steely look in his eye that isn’t supposed to ever be aimed at you. It’s not a secret that side of him exists, but it doesn’t belong in this apartment. It’s not something he needs to use against you. He’s supposed to be on your side. But instead, he’d said you should be expelled and essentially called you stupid. And now you’re doing homework for a class at a school you may not even be a student of come Monday. 

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

The sound of the office door opening forty-five minutes later spikes your blood pressure and simultaneously makes your heart flutter, because no matter how mad at him you might be, Spencer is still Spencer.  

He comes to stand behind the couch quietly, but you don’t acknowledge him. Maybe your typing gets a bit more aggressive, but aside from that you flat out reject his presence. 

“Can we talk?” 

You let him sweat for a minute as you finish your paragraph. 

“I don’t know, Spencer. Can we? Or are you not done with your temper tantrum?” 

“That is... well deserved,” he sighs, rounding the couch and tapping the bottom of your foot, signaling that he wants you to move your legs. You despise how automatically you comply, pulling your knees to your chest to avoid touching him as he sits next to you. There’s a long moment of silence, in which you resume typing. Spencer scoffs, leaning in slightly to peer at your screen. “Are you doing homework right now? I’m a complete asshole to you and you just... do your homework?"

“What the fuck else was I supposed to do?” you almost-yell, slamming your laptop shut and blinking away potential tears. “The only person I wanted to talk to called me stupid and fucking left!” 

The tears realize their potential once you admit the blunt truth. 

Spencer carefully moves your laptop and pulls you into his arms—and you just let him. There’s not much fight left in you. There wasn’t a lot to begin with. 

“I am so sorry, angel. You’re right, I shouldn’t have done that. I shouldn’t have yelled, I shouldn’t have said what I said, I shouldn’t have walked away. I overreacted.” 

“Yeah, you really did,” you cry, allowing him to run his hand over your hair. “Why did you do that? Why were you so fucking mean?” 

His voice shakes slightly as he responds, betraying his own anxieties, and a new, unwelcome sense of trepidation slithers through your veins. 

“I was wondering that, too. Even as I was saying it, I knew—I knew it wasn’t what I wanted to be saying. And then I was in the other room and I wanted to be out here, and I couldn’t figure out why I wasn’t. But I think I was just scared. Which—I know, doesn’t really make sense, but... I think about when Ethan dropped out of the academy, and ended up doing heroin in New Orleans for three years, and I think about when I almost left the BAU because I was so convinced I’d never get clean that I didn’t even want to anymore, and—and the idea of you losing your education and your direction like that terrified me, probably unreasonably, and I took it out on you. And I’m sorry.” 

“But I’m not like you or Ethan. You don’t have to worry about that. Even if I... even I do get in some sort of disciplinary trouble. That’s a road you don’t have to worry about me going down, ever.” 

He fixes some unseen wrinkle on your shirt.  

“Yeah, but, remember... I used to not be like me or Ethan either. Do you think twelve-year-old Spencer would have ever even considered that of the infinite realities and universes which exist, he was living in one where someday he’d be shooting up in the bathroom at work?” 

“Mm-mm,” you hum, shaking your head and burying your face in Spencer’s shoulder. The sound is more of a plea for him to be less descriptive than an answer to his rhetorical question. It’s still much easier for him to talk about that part of his life than it is for you to have to actually imagine it. You didn’t know him then, but you’ve seen pictures, and you know Spencer now, and it’s... it’s just too much. Too sad. 

“Okay,” he agrees soothingly, still playing with your hair. “I digress. My point is that literally anything is possible, and while it’s not necessarily likely, I more than anyone know that anxiety even over the most improbable of things is never completely unfounded.”  

You sniffle in response, too emotionally and physically exhausted to contribute much to the conversation by this point. Thankfully, Spencer can talk for two. An idiosyncrasy which you love and comes in handy every once in a while. He can play his own devil’s advocate; in this case, you. 

“But that doesn’t mean I get to take it out on you. Ever. I truly, truly, sincerely apologize for that. I never want to hurt you.” 

You let the apology sink into your skin like a salve, soothing every abrasion those earlier words had left in their violent wake. 

After a few minutes, you find the energy to ask a question that might best remain unanswered. 

“Are you still mad at me?” 

He’s quiet for a beat, seemingly contemplative as his fingers trace abstract patterns in a language all his own on your arm. 

“I’m not thrilled. But you were right earlier. It’s not my place to be mad at you for something like that.” 

“Mm... it’s a little bit your place. You’re an actual professor.” 

He chuckles. 

“At an entirely different university.” 

“Thank god,” you laugh. “You and me at the same school would be such an HR clusterfuck.”

While it’s almost a serious matter, the smile in his voice is evident. 

“Yeah... I, uh... try not to think about it.” 

“Okay, but seriously. In your professional opinion. Am I fucked? Like, do I need to prepare an appeal and character witnesses or whatever?” 

Spencer sighs. 

“It was incredibly reckless and irresponsible. You should be ready for disciplinary pushback from the schoolboard if you get caught. That being said... because over sixty of you got a hold of the answer key, I doubt anyone is getting expelled, and even if they did, it would likely only be the TA and the student he gave the key to. It’s my tentative, professional opinion that you’ll probably be fine.” 

You relax slightly, allowing a tension you didn’t realize was there to shed like an old skin. 

“I’m not gonna cheat again,” you promise on an exhale. It’s simply too much risk for too little reward.

Spencer’s response is quiet, and comes much faster than you’d expected. 

“Oh, I know you aren’t. Because if you do, you’re going to have to worry about disciplinary action from me. And I’m not nearly as nice as the dean of your school, darling girl.” 

But something about the way he says it—a thinly veiled threat/promise contrasted by a sweet kiss to your forehead—doesn’t exactly make academic honesty look all that exciting.

[theflagscene]

Let’s talk Jack and Joke’s perceived parental roles -

It’s laid out in plain words in episode ten so that there is absolutely no doubt whatsoever, Jack and Joke have taken Toi Ting in and have no plans on returning her to her deadbeat abusive bio-dad. I believe that it going to stay that way, so we’re going to keep to that assumption of her being adopted or fostered by them legally once everything is sorted.

Note: not looking for arguments about the legitimacy of blood relations verses found/chosen family. An adopted child is that person’s child, you do not need to have carried them in your body for them to be yours.

I adore that YinWar have been pushing back against the stereotypes around gay men and queer media in general about what roles a person takes in the relationship, they’ve mostly been focusing on the sexual aspect because that is the part that people tend to get the most hung up on.

Yet I find it wildly interesting how easily Jack and Joke fall into what would be considered the ‘heteronormative parental roles’ when it comes to Toi Ting. It’s not a bad thing! No, it’s actually quite nice to see. They’re not forcing any ‘husband/wife’ ideals into their relationship, they just naturally fall into the roles that are appropriate for them as a couple and a family unit.

Jack is very much in the ‘father’ role, remember, father does not instantly mean masculine or emotionally stunted. He is the protector, he is a trained martial artist and debt collector, he is physically intimidating. He is firm and chastising but also patient and forgiving, he is the one Toi Ting feels physically safe with the most, she runs to him for help, she learns her bravery and defiance from him. He absolutely will pat her back, smooth down her hair and allow himself be to dragged away by the hand to get ice cream. He is playing the role of not just a father figure, but a daddy. (stop giggling at that word, the internet has ruined us all 😝)

Meanwhile, Joke has one hundred percent filled the ‘mother’ role for Toi Ting. Again, not because he’s femme or whatever - side note, there’s nothing wrong with being femme! Joke is a natural carer, he wears his emotions on his sleeve because he never had anyone care about him before. He is gentle and a listener, both things that serve him well as a thief. When Toi Ting comes running to Jack for physical protection, it is Joke that offers emotional protection. He is the one that takes her into his arms and calms her down, he hugs her, reassures her and speaks with clam and loving words to bring her big scary emotions back down to a more manageable level. Joke can redirect her attention and is the one that sits and paints with her, Jack just ‘supervises’, aka is a big dope that’ll ruin the painting lol. But together Jack and Joke are able to offer Toi Ting what she needs, both a mother figure and a father figure, regardless of their genders.

Which leads me into the absolute heartbreak of a scene at the end of episode ten, where Jack and Joke find themselves in the one place no parent ever wants to find themselves. Stuck on the other side of those damnable white doors, unable to get to your child.

Joke has an emotional response, very much a mother’s response. Again, mothers tend to be the ‘emotional nurturers’ so them being more giving with their emotions is to be expected. And I would just like to point out how exceptional War plays that role, he is a mother waiting in terror to find out if his baby is dying or dead.

The blank horrified stare, the shaking hands and quivering movements, the fact that his legs fail him and he ends up curled up on the floor. Covering his mouth to keep the sobs in, yet unable to stop the silent flow of tears, barely even noticing when Hoy tries to comfort him. Joke doesn’t snap out of his shock until Jack shows up.

Jack on the other hand has a very ‘fatherly’ response, the pacing, the pinched expression, the heavy breathing and muttering before just exploding with anger, swearing loudly and looking for someone to blame. He can’t break down just yet, he’s too angry, too scared, he’s not the emotional support. He’s the protector, the provider and he hates himself for failing. Yin played that so well, how he kept moving to touch his head, putting his hands on his hips, fidgeting as he paced, forcing the camera to keep up with his near frantic movements.

Where Joke froze, Jack found movement.

Where Joke was quiet, Jack exclaimed loudly.

Where Joke allowed tears to flow, Jack held his pain tightly in.

Joke and Jack are Toi Ting’s mother and father, and that final hospital scene just proved it.

[ma1dita]

🐥 a lil something for jason grace? just yk him meeting hephaestus!reader for the first time at camp half blood and she's this bubbly girl who befriends everyone cuz that's just how she is and like she offers everyone solutions to material problems like aphrodite kids with vanity mirrors that light up on their own, apollo kids with medical kits that look small outside but has TONS of storage, demeter kids with self watering pots, etc

reader gives him a welcome gift (leo and piper too), a compact watch sword thingy like percy's and jason's like new to this bcs all his life he's been treated like a prince in waiting, a leader most of the time and he hasn't had anyone do something for him cuz its usually him doing things

ooh and a lil bit of leo valdez teasing him bcs of him blushing when she's around cuz reader is his sister basically, same dad and all

Thank you and happy bday again!

🐥🐥🐥🐥🐥

jason grace x hephaestus!reader

a/n: this was so cute but pls lmk if i got his character right...i had to reference my irl pjo bestie for this i love this boy

wc: 766

Jason Grace thinks you talk too much.

And too fast. It’s one of the first things he noticed about Camp Half-Blood weirdly enough, besides the nagging feeling that he didn’t belong there. There wasn’t so much as a day where he wouldn’t see you whizzing past campers offering to tinker items to make their lives easier, and he could barely keep up—which says a lot for a boy raised to be a soldier.

It was like you set everything alight, and the flames you left in your midst could not be tamed; everyone was enamored by you, and admittedly, so was he. The son of Jupiter was sure his brain had short-circuited along with everything else going on but all of his worries were dashed when you presented him with a wristwatch shield.

Jason blinks slowly.

“Are you listening? Do you like it? I can change the finish on it or scrap it completely if you don’t think it’s cool, or maybe it's too big? Let me see your wrist—Jace?”

You wave your hand in his face before grabbing his arm, encircling his wrist with the metal links to make sure your creation fits him comfortably.

Too torn between the predicament of being raised by fucking wolves and training for a war that no one knows the start date of, Jason Grace has not had too much time to acquaint himself with the matters of the heart. So in his eyes, this poor sweetheart thought your welcome gift was the equivalent of a marriage proposal, or something like that…

Your half-sibling Leo thought this was hilarious of course, his teasing grin stoking the fire in the pit of Jason’s stomach when he asked to see it. The blond boy was gentle with your gift, shaking his head at the notion that it meant anything, that you were just kind to everyone, and nothing about it whatsoever makes him special.

Okay buddy…

So of course when you came to confront him about Leo’s taunting that had reached all of the inhabitants of cabin 9 (and the armory, and the counselors, and even Chiron and Mr. D—the biggest gossips of Camp Half-Blood), Jason Grace, a boy who usually has his shit together, was reduced to the phenomenon of being an embarrassed teenager with a crush.

You were standing a little too close for his liking and even if he towered over you, the blaze in your eyes could incite fear in the gods.

“Just because I'm nice and do things for you doesn’t mean that I like you, Jason Grace,” you say adamantly as you cross your arms over your chest. He notices the smudge of soot on your cheekbone, and thinks it looks quite pretty against your complexion.

“Of course.”

“I gave you the wristwatch shield as a welcome gift,” you say next, to which he nods since it’s a fact.

“Of course, I didn’t mea—”

“I mean you’re always protecting others, so I thought someone should protect you for a change,” you mutter, watching him scratch the nape of his neck as your smile spreads like gasoline touched by a lit match. He can’t help but embrace the burn (His serious demeanor is broken by the smile on his face, so big that it almost hurts).

“But you are right, I do like you. Suppose we’ll have to do something about that.”

Thinking hard about the confession that left your mouth, you look like you’re working through a methodical problem to solve— finding the missing piece to a puzzle instead of making the son of Jupiter's face heat up like a thousand suns. He reckons there’s an ambush inside of him as something starts to work harder than usual, not his brain overridden by battle tactics and that of survival— but his heart, beating fast like a well oiled machine (and more importantly like a normal teenage boy). 

Jason reaches out to rub the soot away from your cheek, but when you pull him in by the collar of his shirt to kiss him, he finds himself to be stained by you all the same.

[manheeiim]

Nothing Lasts Forever - Lana’s House

ᥫ᭡ link to nothing lasts forever masterlist

Not long after giving JJ my phone number at the corner store, he was inviting me to come with him and his friend on an adventure, whatever that meant. In fact, I asked him what that meant but he hadn’t really given much of an answer.

Despite my lack of knowing what was going on, I decided to go with him, going with the flow.

I stood in front of my house as I waited for JJ and his friend to come pick me up. Going in the car with a guy I barely knew and a guy I didn’t know whatsoever was not the smartest idea but honestly, I was too desperate to get to know JJ better.

Suddenly, an old van pulls up and I see JJ sitting in the passenger seat, his arm over the open window as he looks out at me.

“Hey.” JJ says.

“Hey.” I respond, a small smile on my face.

“Hi.” His friend says, leaning over to wave at me.

“Hi.” I wave back.

“You can get in the back.” His friend says.

“Or you know, sit on my lap, that works too.” JJ adds, causing his friend to shove him.

I roll my eyes as I get in the back of the van and shut the door, sitting down on the not so secure seating they had back here.

“I’m John B. Nice to meet you.” His friend introduces himself as he takes the van out of park.

“I’m Lucia. It’s nice to meet you.” I say politely in return.

“No, nice to see you, JJ? No, I missed you, JJ?” JJ joins in as he glances back at me with a teasing smile.

I blush a little, “Nice to see you, too, JJ.” I softly say, making JJ’s smile widen.

“Nice to see you, Lucia.” He responds.

We pull up to some house a few minutes later and they both get out of the car. I get up and go to open the van door but JJ beats me to it, opening it for me.

“So, why are we here?” I quietly ask him as I get out and he shuts the van, standing with me there for a moment.

“John B has some compass that he wants to ask this woman about.” JJ says.

“Oh.” I say, now being left with more questions.

“I’ll explain more later. Come on.” JJ then says as we head over to where his friend was.

As we’re walking, there’s suddenly sounds of glass breaking and suddenly I’m freezing up, my body not moving anymore.

JJ glances back at me, noticing my stiffness, before looking over at John B.

“Maybe we should come back.” JJ says. “It’s a little too soon.” He adds as he stands back with me.

“No, no, shut up, JJ.” John B shushes JJ and he just goes quiet.

Yelling is heard and I can hear a man yelling “Tell me where it is or I’ll kill you.”

I tug at JJ’s arm, making him look down at me, “I want to go. I don’t want to be here.” JJ nods in understanding as he looks back at John B.

There’s suddenly another crashing noise and JJ is pulling me up against the side of the house with him as John B goes up against the house as well. There’s a loud bang and I startle as paint chips fall on us.

Suddenly, my body was going back to a situation similar to what I’d finally escaped. My mind was going back to the mindset of when everything was happening.

JJ and John B look over when we hear the sound of the door harshly opening and JJ puts his arm over my chest to hold me back and to not look.

I can see them in the boat driving away and JJ takes my hand in his, bringing me along with him as he follows John B in the house.

We walk through the house and I reluctantly go along with JJ as John B leads the way. As we walk farther into the house, we could see the woman sat on the floor, her back up against the wall, in her bathroom. She was sobbing.

I let go of JJ and stand back, my heart pounding out of my chest. Something about this seemed all too familiar to me.

John B rushes over to her and checks to make sure that she’s okay but obviously she wasn’t in the right headspace to respond. He asks if he should call an ambulance and she denies. He then asks if he should call the cops and that’s when she says, “No cops, please!”

JJ goes over, “Mm. That’s not good. Come on, dude. Let’s just go.” He tells his friend.

I look at the woman’s face and I just can’t do it. I turn around and walk out. My heart is racing, my body shaking, my breath is quick. I could feel myself having a full blown panic attack and I didn’t want to add to the chaos happening inside so I left.

JJ comes out a few moments later, John B obviously still inside with the woman and he looks over at me, immediately going over to me. He grabs onto my arms in a firm but gentle way as he looks down at me.

“You okay?” He asks as he looks down at me, obviously sensing that something was up.

“I want to leave.” I say, ignoring his question unintentionally.

He didn’t ask why, he knew what it was. He knew that same feeling all too well. He studied my expression as he put his hand on the small of my back and started to lead me to the van, “Let’s wait for John B in the van.” JJ says.

When we get in the van, I get in the back and JJ gets in the back as well with me, sitting down next to me as he fiddled with his fingers next to me.

“I’m sorry.” I apologize. I felt like I had made it awkward and this was our first official time actually hanging out.

“Why?” JJ asked.

“I made a whole big deal.” I point out, having the habit of disregarding or downgrading my feelings.

“Well, you obviously had a reason.” JJ pointed out. I’m silent. “I get it.” Is all he says before we both go silent and just sit there, waiting for his friend to come back so we could leave.

[ilovebuckers5]

.·:·.✧ Say No pt 3✧.·:·.

NIka Muhl x Fem!Reader

"I wish you didn't have to post it all, I wish you'd save a little bit just for me"

word count - 2.1k

themes:

-nothing but sadness

A/N - have fun crying!

august 4th 2023

I think Nika Muhl has to be my favorite person right now. Not even just because I can call her my girlfriend but because she gives me a reason to actually get through the day. We only had one week until we had to head back home and stay. I was clutching onto Nika's hand for dear life as we stood in line for zip lining. Along with Ashlynn, Paige and Ines. A ball of sweat ran down my forehead as Paige slid down the zip line without an issue. It was me next. I looked back at Nika with terror in my eyes. She tilted her head back cackling at my fear. "C'mon baby its ok. It'll be over before you know it and you'll want to go again after." Her hand rested on my shoulder as I stepped to the edge of the platform I stood on. The workers attached whatever I needed to Zipline safely onto my back. I took a deep breath and gently stepped forward to the Zipline. "Fuck fuck fuck fuck" I whined while looking back at Nika who had the most entertained smile plastered on her face. Finally, I hopped off and shut my eyes for a second as I slid through the air. It honestly felt nice having the cool breeze run across my skin and through my hair.

What started out as screaming at the top of my lungs turned into laughing so hard that my stomach hurt. Just like Nika said, it went by quickly. Before I knew it I was at the other side of the line with my feet pressed at the edge of the next platform. Paige held onto my forearms once I got across and helped me off. I stare ahead and saw Nika getting ready to go next. This was the moment that I realized I would never get enough of her. She had this smile that perfectly formed her lips into the most hypnotizing upturned laugh. Her hair was in a low braid and it flowed with each force of air that came along. The urge to Zipline all the way back to her and just hold her was unbearable. But I just viewed her perfect features from afar. My eyes followed her face as it went across the Zipline. All the way until we met again. I held my arms out for her to cling onto. Her body pushed into mine once she landed. Our arms interlocked around each others waists and could barely let go. The brunettes laughs rang through my ears for the rest of that day.

When we got back to the hotel, I wasted zero time and went to the bathroom to take of my makeup and brush out my hair. I ran my bamboo brush through my hair until everything was smooth. Before I could take off my makeup I felt a familiar pair of hands wrap around my back reaching in front to hold onto my waist. I leaned my head back against Nika's shoulder. The scent of her perfume still lingered on her neck line. She pressed a kiss on my temple and rested her chin near the top of my head. The fact that she wasn't saying anything scared me. Usually shes quite talkative after a day like today. "Is anything on your mind love?" I whispered against her skin. Still no words left her mouth she just shook her head side to side. This was not convincing whatsoever. I pulled away from her hold and spun around to face her. She had already taken off her makeup and out her hair into a bun instead of a braid. I ran my hands across the sides of her hips and looked from her lips to her eyes. I could tell that she was struggling to look straight at me and not the floor. Once our eyes did meet I noticed a couple tears building up in her waterline. Before the tears could even fall, I pulled Nika into a tight hug, rubbing my thumb back and forth against her hair. "What's up? Talk to me please."

This was something that happened a good amount of times. Nika would be upset about something and I'd have to kiss the words out of her or something along..those lines.

Finally after holding her in my arms in the middle of the bathroom for a good three minutes she pulled her face out of my chest and sniffled a little.

nikas pov

I tried by best to not cry even more because of how upset I was.

For context, after zip lining me, y/n, and Paige decided to drive alone this time. Paige drove today and me and y/n stayed in the back right next to each other. Most of the car ride was taken up my me laying on my girlfriends shoulder but the one time I leaned against the window instead, I glanced over to see y/n looking at her exes Instagram. Obviously that's bad enough as it is but what made it worse was that they were posts of the two when they were together. I swear I could feel my blood boiling right then and there. We've been together for not even a month and shes already looking back at her previous relationships? Someone has to admit that that is fucked up.

I try my hardest to not get pissed at these kind of situations but y/n meant more to me then any other relationships I'd ever been in. So I stood there with tears running down my eyes and stared at my girlfriend with nothing but confusion staring back at me. Before I could explain anything else to her, she pulled me into her arms again pressing my face against her chest while resting hers on me. Even though the inside of me was mad and wanted to walk away, I couldn't help but embrace her tightly. I wrapped my arms around her waist and took all the comfort she was giving me.

Suddenly the world went silent. All the anger that had been boiling inside me that day went away. I love her. More than anything. and I'm almost positive she does too. But there was still a part of me that doubted anything and everything. Without thinking about how this would go on after, I spoke against y/n's soft shirt that muffled my mouth. "Do you know that I love you?" As soon as I spoke I regretted it. She pulled away from the hug and took her hands from my back to my shoulders, holding me firmly.

"Is that even a question?" She said, clearly confused. That broke my heart even more. The fact that she didn't know.

just realize already please.

"You... you were on your exes Instagram today. In the car." Her eyes immediately widened. She was more shocked then when I asked her out.

y/n's pov

What the fuck.

I've never felt so terrible. I never meant to hurt Nika. Let alone make her doubt my love for her.

"Baby..."

But then I realized that I didn't have an excuse. I was caught looking at me and my ex when we were together. I didn't even do it because I miss him, I just missed how I felt. He was shitty but I felt loved. And now I'm fucking it up with the one person brought that feeling back.

I held Nika's cheek in my palm while trying to figure out what I was going to say. My brain wasn't functioning at all. I was too mad at myself.

"I have nothing to say. I don't have an excuse. But I also don't have a reason. I don't miss him Nika. I love you more than I've loved anyone. my love for you is unmatched. I don't know why I did that"

Every word that left my mouth was the truth and nothing more or less. Outside I had my own tears filling my eyes and inside I couldn't stop thinking about what I would do without Nika. I reached to hold Nika's hands but she pulled away. There came the tears. I turned my face around to hide my crying. Please let this be a nightmare. Nika looked down at my feet and moved her eyes up to mine after. Her bottom lip was tucked under her top teeth and I could tell that there were more tears to come. The silence lasted a for what seemed like forever until Nika spun herself around to pick up her purse that she previously set down. Still no words had left her mouth but was now walking out the door.

"Nika please" I said loud enough for her to hear but quiet enough to stay under my breath. I began to rub my hands against my forehead, pacing the room. I couldn't decide if it was smart to run after her or just let her blow off some steam. I just wanted to hold her and reassure her that I love no one else but not even that would help explain myself. Why the fuck was I even looking at his Instagram? I couldn't remember now. It didn't matter. Nika did.

third person pov

Nika grabbed her bags and rushed out the door and straight to Paige's room where Paige and Azzi were laying down on the floor playing Fortnite. When Nika rushed in with dried up tears on her face, Paige practically ripped her headphones off and pushed them aside. The blonde stood up and took Nika into her arms. "what the fuck happened?" All Nika did was shake her head side to side. Now Azzi had noticed and joined the hug. When Nika pulled away she immediately sat down on the edge of Paige's bed and began to explain what happened.

"Oh my God." Both Paige and Azzi were silent. They never though that the girl who loved Nika so dearly would pull this on her. "I'm so sorry Nika" Azzi pulled her into another hug while mouthing to Paige 'go talk to her now' and Paige listened. She sped down the hallways all the way to your room and opened the door without knocking. The first thing she saw was you sitting on the floor, head pressed against the wall, tears streaming. Her first reaction was an urge to hug you but she had to stay serious for Nika. "Y/n." She said sternly. You tilted your head up with puffy eyes and looked at Paige. The room was filled with silence and awkward eye contact. Paige then walked to the bed you were curled up next to and sat on the edge of it. "Could you just explain your side. Please" Paige said gently.

You took a deep breath to prepare yourself for more tears and began to explain exactly how you felt. "I don't know why I did it Paige I was bored but not bored of Nika I mean like bored during the car ride. there wasn't a thought behind it I swear, I didn't want to hurt her. I really don't want to lose her P." Paige sighed and looked down at the floor then back up at you. "You need to tell her that. When you get the chance at least. Cause right now she thinks that things are over and its way too early for that shit." You wiped your eyes and nose aggressively and coughed a bit "Yeah I know Paige."

Nika decided to sleep in Azzi and Paige's room that night since Azzi was going out. The whole night was filled with tears from both Y/n and Nika. But for the first time in a while, the tears were in separate rooms.

y/n's pov

My bed felt so empty. So was my chest that still felt so heavy. I couldn't help but pull out my phone every couple minutes to see if Nika texted or if she at least read my texts. How did everything fall apart so quickly. It wasn't fair to either of us. I would've explained myself if she gave me the chance. The more silence I indulged in, the more thoughts of worry occurred so I decided to put in my air pods and play music. Phoebe Bridger's to be specific...

The only thing I managed to do was stare at the ceiling and imagine that Nika was laying in my arms or on my stomach. But instead she was probably curled up on Azzi's bed. Feeling just as empty as me. eventually my eyelids were heavy enough to close and stay closed until the morning. Every night since I transferred to UConn was filled with some sort of dream or imagination or something, but tonight my brain couldn't function enough to give myself any thoughts other than "I fucked up." So I took the night to cry everything out. everything about Nika. Everything about how Paige and Azzi are pissed at me. Everything about the fact that I may not ever have Nika in my arms again. Everything about everything ever.

[thetypedwriter]

Children of Anguish and Anarchy Book Review

Children of Anguish and Anarchy Book Review by Tomi Adeyemi

This book was so horrible. 

No one is more disappointed than me to say that. 

I’ve gone to two of Tomi Adeyemi’s book signings, including a recent one for Children of Anguish and Anarchy.

Tomi Adeyemi herself is absolutely wonderful. She’s so intelligent, hilarious, addictively charming, and can work a room like no other. The book signing was fantastic. Too bad the book couldn’t hold up to the event itself. 

Children of Anguish and Anarchy follows as the third and last installment of the Legacy of Orisha trilogy, but doesn’t read like that at all.

Other than having the same four main characters of Tzain, Zelie, Amari, and Inan, nothing about the book concludes any issue, plot story, or character development from the previous two novels. 

A completely new villain is introduced, someone we haven't heard about as a reader in the last two books whatsoever, and obliterates any of the conflict and tension that Adeyemi worked so hard to build in her previous stories. 

Gone is the tension and literally hundreds of years of in-fighting between the Maji and the monarchy, gone is the civil war and its repercussions on Orisha, gone is even one of the main characters from the last novel, Roen, who was a significant love interest for Zelie and who has been completely disappeared in this new book all together (like, what???). 

It was incredibly lazy writing to wipe away everything the first two books created in order to “unite” against this new enemy. The sentiment is nice, but it’s not the finale we wanted or needed. 

I desired answers to Amari and Zelie’s broken friendship, closure to the Inan and Roen love triangle, a verdict on how Orisha would rebuild and who would rule. 

We get none of that. 

Instead Zelie and the others spend half their time in the book on a ship with very strong slavery parallels, and the other half in the introduced land of New Gaia.

While I thought the descriptions of New Gaia were beautiful (albeit very similar to Avatar), I was dissatisfied because the whole series at this point has been focused on Orisha and Orisha’s problems, not New Gaia and not the Skulls. 

While the plot was bad and aggrieving, the characters were even worse. 

None of the characters were interesting. They were carbon copies of each other in which all they talked about was avenging their fallen Orishan people, killing the Skulls, and protecting loved ones.

Rinse and repeat. It was boring as hell to delve into four different characters’ minds only to find that they all sounded exactly the same. 

I often had to go back to the start of the chapter to tell whose internal thoughts I was reading because they were so interchangeable and self-righteous and dull.  It is never a good sign when you can’t automatically tell who’s POV you’re reading based on their internal dialogue and tone. 

Lastly, the pacing of the book was atrocious. Everything happened so goddamn fast that I felt like I never had the chance to properly digest or internalize anything.

Oh they’re on a ship? Moving on from that. Zelie got some sort of medallion shoved into her chest?? Moving on. Wait, Maji and Titans and the monarchy are all working together after two full books of them killing each other??? Five pages and it’s done with. 

It was outrageous and insulting. 

The pacing made everything feel shallow, unimportant, and unnecessary. More than most of the plot were action scenes, while difficult to write and interesting in their own right, in this book it was so repetitive that characters killing other characters 90% of the time became egregiously tedious. 

And speaking of the action, I also found it incredibly violent and graphic for a YA book. As someone who is not a fan of gore and blood, this book had so many explicit details for no reason other than being gratuitous.

For example, at one point Zelie shoves a chicken bone through someone’s cheek. I found it repulsive and it was also incessant. 

I know some people can handle brutality, but I can’t, and found it a huge turn off and made me dislike the book so much more, especially as this was a majority of the book to boot. 

Disappointment can’t even contain my full feelings for this story. For such a wonderful trilogy to succumb to such a terrible end is a tragedy. I wish the best for Tomi Adeyemi and success for her future, but I will not read another book by her again. 

Score: 2/10

Recommendation: Read Children of Blood and Bone, a magical story that will inspire and entertain you. Read Children of Virtue and Vengeance if you really need something else, but even this book I wouldn’t recommend picking up.

Do not, I repeat, do not read Children of Anguish and Anarchy. It will leave you feeling dismayed and disheartened beyond redemption.

Bonus: Here's me, my fiance, and Tomi Adeyemi at her book signing!

[redfurrycat]

💕🤠🎭🐓💕Fake/Pretend Relationship Fic Recs💕🐓🎭🤠💕

Check the Top Gun Masterlist post for the latest updated version. 💕

Ao3 Authors: AllForReading, Alltherecklesshours, AnadoraBlack, Bahjrc, Bottledyarn, Burglarbilbo, Chase_acow, Coconutcordiale, Crowstakeflight, Earthangel_44, Estelle, FabuMazX, FlowersOnMyMind, Fuddlewuddle, Greatea, Greenstuff, Grimjobs, Halestrom, Hangmanbradshaw, Haridwar, Ilarina, Indybob, Imafriendlydalek, Jireusang, K0ralik, LadyLanera, Lawrussoauto, Lookingoodsugar, Lovelybattle, Miraculousmultifan, NeverwinterThistle, Nightwrite24, OfTheDirewolves, Orphan_account, Pinetreegreen, Ravens_Words, ReformedTsundere, ReformedTsunderePodfics, Renai_chan, Road1985, Soisserieux, Teacupivy, Thegeckbros, ToukoJalorda003, Trinipedia, Viridimessorem, Whistler_King, Winterbucky, Wordsonamission, Writerofthelorde, Writteninwaves.

Hangster Marriage Fic Recs

A girl, she once told me I'd be happy again... by AnadoraBlack {M}

Rooster has gotten himself into a bit of a predicament. If only because he agreed to be Hangman's fake date at his sister's wedding, when they've just barely started considering each other friends. . Nothing can go wrong, right?

kiss me, please by miraculousmultifan {M}

Pulling his gaze away from over Hangman’s shoulder, Rooster backed himself against the wall, pulling Hangman with him until he murmured desperately, his gaze still flicking to the side, “Kiss me. Please.” *** Rooster needs to hide from an old ex, and who better to back him against a wall and kiss him stupid than Jake “Hangman” Seresin? Pulling his gaze away from over Hangman’s shoulder, Rooster backed himself against the wall, pulling Hangman with him until he murmured desperately, his gaze still flicking to the side, “Kiss me. Please.” *** Rooster needs to hide from an old ex, and who better to back him against a wall and kiss him stupid than Jake “Hangman” Seresin?

The Stuff of Fairy Tales by Fuddlewuddle {T}

Rooster sees some asshole harassing Hangman in the bar and so decides to help his fellow pilot (who he may be in love with) out. And by help he means pretend to be his boyfriend to get the other guy to leave. Lucky for Rooster, Hangman is very much on board with this plan, though maybe they don't have to pretend to be boyfriends, maybe?

Too Much Love (Drives a Man Insane) by ToukoJalorda003 {M}

Rooster was just thankful to be alive. Really, he was! He was repairing his relationship with Mav, and it was great that he didn’t get shot down a second time on the mission. Frankly, he just wanted a nice, calm night celebrating at the Hard Deck. But apparently not, since some asshole wouldn’t leave an uncomfortable-looking Hangman alone. And damn, Rooster wasn’t going to stand for that.

The Exes of Texas Are Upon You by chase_acow {M}

While trying to enjoy their day off, a bet comes back to haunt Hangman forcing Rooster into a tight spot.

don't need another perfect line (gonna give all my secrets away) by Estelle {T}

Pretending to be Hangman's boyfriend for a weekend? No problem at all. There aren't any feelings involved whatsoever. Of course not. Spoiler alert: There are feelings involved, and they are idiots about it.

like shooting stars by bottledyarn {T}

“Well," the gate agent said. "Only uniformed military members and their spouses can board priority, but—” “That works out,” Bradshaw said, his voice tinny and distant in Jake's ringing ears. “Because this is my fiancé.” If Jake hadn’t been able to choke down a piece of toast this morning, he thought he might be light-headed enough to just pass out right then and there. -- Jake is trying to fly home for Thanksgiving and not have a panic attack on the airplane. Bradley is trying to skip town and spend the holiday in a mountain cabin to distract from another Thanksgiving alone. Between the two of them, they might both get where they need to go.

Bad Idea by lovelybattle {E}

“I told my parents I’m bringing a guy that I’ve been dating home with me to get them off my back,” Jake said, and Phoenix’s eyebrows furrowed. “Let me guess, you haven’t been dating anyone and you don’t have anyone to bring.” Phoenix said, setting her drink down and folding her arms on the table.

Rack 'Em Up, Big Blonde by Earthangel_44 {E}

Bradley becomes a regular at a Hooters to spend three hours with a blonde server with an unfortunate taste in football teams. Along the way, Bradley might have developed feelings. AKA: Jake is a Hooter's girl and Bradley is his regular. (Podficced by ReformedTsunderePodfics)

Sereshaw Celebrity AU by lawrussoauto

a little goes a long way {G}

‘Rumours that the co-workers could be developing a romance have been circulating since Jake starred in Bradley’s hit movie; House of the Rising Sun.' - Or, the public are convinced Jake and Bradley are dating.

in plain sight {T}

A collection of oneshots set in the "a little goes a long way" AU.

Sell It by Renai_chan {T}

There are some fights you just can't fly your way out of. Sometimes you need a wingman to help you. When Jake gets hit on by a girl he can't turn down, Bradley comes to his rescue.

I’ll Be Yours for Christmas (if only in my dreams) by greenstuff {E}

After the mission, Bradley tells Jake that his mom thinks they’re dating and, against his better judgement, Jake agrees to go along with it for Christmas. Shameless fake dating holiday fluff set in a world where Carole didn’t die but everything else in canon happened.

I'll Be Home for Christmas (And I'll be Making it Your Problem) by ReformedTsundere {T}

Javy is scrolling past their local college's "Personals" page, seeing if they can find students they know enough to make harmless jokes at, when an apparent ad stops them both. Rent-A-Boyfriend Need someone to take home for the holidays? Not looking forward to being sat around the table and made to play nice? I'm a 26-year-old Navy brat with more piercings, tattoos, and trauma than sense. Polisci and Engineering double major who is running on caffeine (but can make it seem like I've got a drug problem). I ride a motorcycle for fun, have what can only be described as a "pornstache," and am unapologetically queer. I can and will, without trying, make any conservative parent wish they'd never picked up the phone to make you come home and have a blast doing it.

we met in the winter (and we fell in love) by haridwar {T}

The Twelve Days of Leave by orphan_account {T}

When Bradley made plans to meet his godfather for the holidays, the last thing he expected was to get marooned in an airport en route... When Jake had to rush home for a family emergency, the last thing he expected was to run into a fellow fighter pilot on the way... Now that the two former-rivals had joined up to spend Christmas in Jake's home town, would unexpected sparks fly? Or would they crash and burn? :::OR::: A fun, fluffy holiday romp with a pinch of angst, a dash of cheer, and a sprig of holly, all wrapped in a big red bow.

This Is My Seat by Writerofthelorde {M}

Jake, who is secretly very much into him, likes to annoy Bradley by sitting on his lap whenever he gets a chance. But then one day at the hard deck a guy Bradley knows -somewhat of an ex- walks in and claims that he's in his seat. And then, much to Jake's surprise, Bradley announces that actually, Hangman is his boyfriend.

do you feel the same (or was it just for fun) by burglarbilbo {E}

Jake wants to run his fingers through his beautiful hair, wants to reach out and touch him. Instead, he says: “You were the first boy I ever liked,” without thinking. He can’t tear his eyes away from Bradley’s face. With the dim moonlight coming through the large window, his features are soft, his eyes bright. “Seresin, you need to go to sleep,” Bradley says, not meeting his gaze. “Back at the academy. I thought… I dunno…I think I might have loved you then.” "Goodnight, Hangman." - in which jake needs a date to his brother's wedding and bradley is willing. what could go wrong? plus, throw in jake's toxic ex-girlfriend, his repressed sexuality, and his and bradley's shared history.

Sail on, on a distant highway, yeah by NeverwinterThistle {M}

I’m getting married, Maverick’s message says. Call me when you can.

I Don't Wanna Live Through This Comedown - Top Gun AU [Jake "Hangman" Seresin/Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw] by Road1985, trinipedia {E}

Meet Bradley, a struggling musician working at a strip club to cover medical expenses. Then meet Jake, who joined the Army in a desperate attempt to atone for his muddy past of drug abuse and get back the respect of his family. They couldn't be more different, but their needs are the same, so they agree to marry solely for military benefits. However, when tragedy strikes, the line between real and pretend begins to blur.

house of cards by bahjrc {M}

“Lieutenant, get in the car.” “Is that a request or an order?” Their lives are fickle like a house of cards, a balancing act through and through of life, death, sunrises and sunsets. Chasing after each other and coming around near misses, Rooster's life has been a roundabout of victories and losses up till now but he can't say it's been bad, when everything seems to fall into place after so long. However, all it takes is one misstep for everything to come crumbling down. Or, well, one bitter ex and a dramatic meeting, so it seems. Rooster finds out he doesn't mind going the extra mile to help Hangman out of something stupid, he owes him his life, after all. If Hangman minds, well, then that's a him problem, really.

Baby You Look Good by soisserieux {_}

He finds his name and desk number and heads in the direction of his seat, only to stop short when he sees the guy in the other chair.  The guy is sitting there comfortably, with all of his shit unpacked, like he’s been there for a while. He’s got this old-looking Hawaiian print shirt on, and this mustache that looks like it came straight out of a trashy porno. And the worst part is, Jake can’t tear his eyes away. It’s like everything else happening in the lab suddenly came to a screeching halt, and he can’t do anything but stare at this guy.  The spell is finally broken when the guy looks up at him. “Do you need something? Or…” Jake regains his composure and plasters a well-practiced cocky smile on his face. “Well, if you don’t mind, I need you to help me pass this damn class… Partner.” It’s kind of dumb and Jake almost wishes he didn’t say it, but it’s too late to take it back now. He’s stuck with it, just like he’s stuck with this guy as his lab partner. Fate has spoken.  One of the guy’s eyebrows shoots up. “You’re my lab partner?” Jake sets his stuff down and sits down in the open chair, sidling up next to his new partner. “Lucky for you.”

If you need to believe in someone just pretend it's me by alltherecklesshours {T}

“Fair enough. So, if it’s not to hide a body, what is it?” One deep breath before the plunge. “I need you to be my boyfriend for a weekend,” he said and, if he wasn’t so nervous, he would have probably laughed at the way Rooster froze and his jaw dropped the smallest amount before he was shaking his head and clearing his throat. “I’m sorry, could you repeat that? I thought I heard you saying you needed me to be your boyfriend for the weekend,” Rooster sounded incredulous. Jake only rolled his eyes and ignored his heart pounding in his chest. “That was exactly what I said. Do keep up, Rooster.” - or: Jake's mom is getting married and he needs to keep his ex (and his sisters) off his back. Bradley is, obviously, his best shot.

you don't kiss me like a friend by haridwar {T}

Jake went back to join the party, seemingly indifferent, like their meeting was barely a blip on his radar in the grand scheme of things. Or, so Bradley had thought based off of the signals he had been picking up on at the time. His sudden and emphatic education into how far his assumptions had misled him, that was what started with a phone call in the middle of the night.

there's money for the taking (and the happiness we all deserve) by thegeckbros {E}

“So, what, one of the richest dudes in New York wants to be your sugar daddy?” “Kinda?” Jake sits back up, straightening up and turning his body towards Javy. “He doesn’t want like sex or anything. He just needs someone to pretend to date so his uncle and PR team get off his back about his reputation.” Or a sugar daddy au in which jake is a struggling law student, bradley's a billionaire, and they weave a tangled web

Say you'll be my darling by FlowersOnMyMind {E}

Rooster and Hangman have to go undercover as a married couple in this Mission Impossible AU fic. Feelings happen.

Formula 1: Deceive to Achieve by greenstuff {E}

When new teammates, Jake and Bradley, agree to pretend they’re in a committed relationship to land a sponsorship deal, they probably should have factored in the possibility they might fall for their own lies.

no road home by writteninwaves {M}

"In the end, maybe it’s all worth it. If all the flight paths end up here…. Well. All things considered, it’s not such a bad way to go. At least he’ll be saving someone else." Jake flies the mission as Dagger 1. Jake doesn't have anyone waiting on him to come home. The man he loves doesn't love him back. He thinks no one else would care as much if he goes. Maybe in the end it'll all be okay, he's the only expendable one anyway. So Jake takes the hit, and goes down. But Bradley Bradshaw doesn't let him go alone and comes back for him. This is a story of one self-sacrificial dumbass called Jake Seresin and how Jake learns to ask for help, understands he's not alone, and how he manages to find something to call his own along the way.

wreck my plans (that's my man) by Ravens_Words {T}

Fake dating turns into a fake engagement, which then snowballs into a fake (almost) wedding.

IWTBY Verse by hangmanbradshaw {E}

I want to brainwash you into loving me forever

“So…this is fucking weird and I have no clue what to say here.” Bradley smiled warmly and leaned his forearms against the table. “Don’t worry, Mav already filled me in, and I’ll do it.” Jake blinked. “You’ll do it?” “Yeah.” Bradley sat back with a nod. “You want to come out, right? If us appearing to be in a stable relationship will help, then I’m in.” Or, Jake Seresin has it all- fame, money, a NFL MVP trophy, a Super Bowl appearance, a lonely house, and a problem. He wants to come out on his own terms. Enter Bradley Bradshaw, the solution to said problem, or maybe, the beginning of a new problem. After all, you don't fall in love with your fake boyfriend. aka the Fake Dating NFL AU

you're all i can think of these days by haridwar {T}

Jake and Mav's no good very bad week and Bradley's efforts to save them

The Christmas Wedding Date by imafriendlydalek {E}

Bradley knows it’s a terrible idea, even as he’s agreeing to it. Sure, things between him and Jake are better now since the mission, but the bar for that was so low it was practically on the ground. Just because things are “better,” just because Hangman saved his life, just because they had a long talk about what happened in the past—a talk that maybe ended with some rather hurried but incredibly satisfying blowjobs in a bunk on an aircraft carrier and them then texting each other all of twice before today—doesn’t mean that this is a good idea. Spending a whole long weekend together, over Christmas no less? At Jake’s sister’s wedding? Pretending to be his boyfriend? A terrible idea. Still, Bradley has been known for making ill-advised decisions when it comes to one Jacob Seresin, and today is no different. “Yeah, alright,” he hears himself say. Can even hear the smile on his face. “Guess I should iron my suit, huh?” It earns him a laugh from Jake, gravelly and delighted. “Oh no, darlin’. This is an event for dress blues.”

Et Cetera by nightwrite24 {M}

Jake and Bradley, fake dating AU. Two idiots falling for each other.

Make the Yuletide Gay by imafriendlydalek {G}

Mav is looking over Ice’s left shoulder, toward Seresin and Bradshaw, as he says, “The kids seem to be getting along. Is this your doing?” Ice smiles down at him, and maybe it’s just the holidays, or the champagne, or it’s because his doctors recently declared him cancer-free, or because Maverick has finally moved in officially now that he has come to terms with not flying anymore. Whatever it is, it’s making Ice’s heart feel like it could burst with how inordinately fond he is of this man. “I was barely involved. All I did was give them a little nudge out the door.” Mav arches an eyebrow. “Sure thing, Gandalf.” *** Hangman and Rooster, as observed by Iceman, with a special appearance by Bob, a facetious yet observant little shit.

Family Cabin by viridimessorem {T}

If you'd told Jake in October of 2018 that he'd, in the future, end up introducing Bradley Bradshaw to his family as his boyfriend, he'd have, for one, punched you, for another, laughed his ass off because that would never happen. And yet, it had.

my heart is a christmas tree farm by greatea {E}

It's not like going to your ex-boyfriend's family Christmas while pretending to still be dating is a common favor to be asked for. But he did agree to this, when Jake phoned him up. It hadn't even taken much convincing. First, Jake had expected an immediate no when he called Bradley one Thursday evening. That didn't come. After Jake explained the situation, Bradley had said that he'd think about it. He called back an hour later. Jake's unsure what he would have done if Bradley had said no. Called his mom back and said, "Hey, do you remember when you asked me if I was bringing my boyfriend Bradley to Christmas this year, and I said yes? Yeah, we broke up two months ago and I lied for no reason"?

Cockblock by halestrom {E}

Bradley was sure the universe had it out for him. It was the only reason he could think of where he ended up in a situation where he had to fake date Jake 'Hangman' Seresin for the good for the US Navy. And he would be damned if someone thought Hangman was a better boyfriend than him.

Anyone But You by FabuMazX {M}

A one-night stand and several misunderstandings take Bradley and Jake's first meeting from a fairytale romance to a bitter feud. Good thing they never have to see each other again. Until their best friends get married and drag them across the world to celebrate together. Now they just have to get through the wedding without killing each other. Easy. Sure…so, so easy. “Look, lets just keep it civil for them, okay.” “Well, she’s your friend. I’m sure the relationship won’t last long.” “He’s your brother, I’m amazed they’re even together.” “And when it all falls through, I’m gonna drink to never seeing you again.” “Cheers to that, bro.”

I’ll save you a seat by teacupivy {M}

“What if…” Seresin starts, but then he shakes his head. He’s about to walk away when Bradley grabs for his wrist, nodding at him to go on. “It’s stupid,” he says, rolling his eyes, “but what if we go together?”

dancing in convertibles by coconutcordiale {M}

“He’s not that great,” Jake mumbles. “You’re only saying that ‘cause he’s your ex,” Charlotte accuses, but it’s without malice. He thinks. “I’m really not.” It’s not a lie, since they never actually dated, but it’s not like he’s going to admit that out loud. + aka the hotel staff au

i heard from the heavens by lookingoodsugar {G}

Bradley turns around to find himself face to face with Lieutenant Jake Seresin, in all his magazine cut-out, All-American boy glory. Jake winks at Bradley. 'Jake!' Dickie says, excitedly, making grabby hands at him, 'Why didn't you tell me you and Rooster were a thing!' 'Quite recent business,’ Jake says, sounding not at all like he’s lying out of his ass. ‘We’re keeping it low-key. Isn’t that right, sweetheart?' Bradley attends an old friend's wedding, he finds an unexpected guest, and a misunderstanding leads to a realisation.

he's written mine on my upper thigh only in my mind by hangmanbradshaw {E}

Jake is absolutely not going to spend his summer vacation alone at his family's beach house with his ex boyfriend and said ex's new boyfriend. Bradley needs a place to stay for the summer. Faking a relationship solves both their problems, until it creates a new problem when they start to fall for their own ruse. Unless it ends up not being a problem at all. Or Jake's a trust fund, tennis star at Vanderbilt. Bradley's an orphaned baseball star on scholarship. Their worlds are very different, but all they need is three months in Rhode Island to build a new one together.

lightning + sand = glass hearts by pinetreegreen {E}

Hangman's got a crush. When he rescues Bradshaw from a perv, they have to fall into a fake relationship. It's just for a few weeks, right?

Love's Match by LadyLanera {T}

After the events of TGM, two of our couples reevaluate their relationships because they realize it meant something to them.

I love you, ain't that the worst thing you ever heard? by Ilarina {G}

Jake was only good as a fake boyfriend for those fifty minutes they periodically spent together at Beginners Diner. Bradley wanted nothing more from him than to be the guard dog who kept his stupid ex from talking to him, and then to be his usual friend and colleague the rest of the time. Jake tried to keep all of this mess separated into the various areas of his life, but it was just so, so difficult... more and more difficult as time went by. Sometimes he sincerely wondered why the fuck he had agreed to all of this, what in God's name had pushed him to say yes to Bradley that goddamned Saturday. Then Jake remembered Bradley’s soft, full lips, the sweet way his warm, brown gaze rested on him, and how those stolen kisses were the only thing that made him feel as alive as when he was flying. [Bradley asks Jake to be his fake boyfriend to keep an ex away from him. As time goes by, Jake needs more from Bradley... but he can't have it. Or so he thinks.]

Tourism and Destinations (Neither Compare to Journeys or Friendships) by ToukoJalorda003 {M}

Jake didn’t need a wedding date - he was solely attending as a guest, and it didn’t matter if he took a partner with him or not. In fact, he’d rather not. Why bother, when the one he wanted wouldn’t ever agree? …But apparently Bradley was in a different boat, and now he’d just roped himself into some fake wedding date with Bradshaw. That was going to be decidedly harder.

Stupid Enough by AllForReading {T}

It's five beers and a couple of stronger drinks later when Bradley is actually stupid enough to agree to this madness. He has found out that Hangman for whatever reason wants to piss off his conservative parents and that somehow sounds like fun, at least to Bradley’s boozy brain. Hell, why did Hangman know him so well that he knew that he would agree to this crack idea? —  In other words: Bradley is Jake’s fake date for his sister’s wedding.

A White Lie for the Perks and Benefits by wordsonamission {E}

Bradley meets up with several of the Daggers for a vacation in Las Vegas. Bradley has been developing feelings for Jake since the events of TG:M, but there's no way Jake is into him - right? In order to get a room upgrade and some fun resort amenity extras for free, Jake enters them in a couple's contest. They win and now they have to keep up the ruse that they are a couple. For some reason, the way they interact when they aren't even trying is enough to fool the other people at the resort. Maybe Bradley doesn't know what Jake's thinking after all.

whiskey on ice (sunset on vine) by grimjobs {E}

“Just lie then,” Bradley said, easy as that. “What?” Jake asked, incredulous. “Just lie,” Bradley shrugged, “tell your sister you’re dating someone, make it all up. She gets off your back, and you don’t have to suffer the pain and torment of caring about another person. Problem solved.”

 Show me the places where the others gave you scars by Ilarina {T}

“Who-who’s getting married, excuse me?” was what Jake blurted out as a question. Because his mind was literally refusing to believe a single word Bradley was saying and the point he was making by using that verb in a meaningful sentence with the two of them as the subject. Bradley’s hand, large and warm, rested on Jake’s chest and he felt his heart leap into his throat at such an embarrassing rate that he thought, for a long moment, that he was going to collapse and pass out in front of them all. “You and me, silly. There’s no need to hide our love from Ice and Mav anymore,” Bradley whispered in a fake sweet tone, as the world crumpled around Jake and dragged him down an abyss of lies. “Unfortunately, it’s the same old cliche you watch in romcom movies. You know, the boss and the assistant, long nights together in the office, intercontinental trips for books fairs... we are just two people who should never have fallen in love. And yet we did!” [Jake is Bradley's assistant and he hates his boss so, so much... but he is forced to be his fiancé out of nowhere. Aka The Proposal AU]

Fraternization Rules by imafriendlydalek {M}

“Y’all should be a bit more careful,” Doe says between bites, like it’s absolutely nothing. “They won’t let you be on the same squadron if they know that y’all’re dating.” “What?” Jake musters the ability to ask, overwhelmed by the absurdity of the statement. There’s no fucking way— Sure, Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell was repealed not very long ago so he could actually be in a relationship with a dude and tell people these days, but— With Rooster? No fucking way. “They don’t let couples serve together,” Joker chimes in. “Fraternization, I guess.” *** Or: five times Jake and Bradley pretended to be in a relationship so they wouldn't be assigned together, and one time they pulled their heads out of their asses and stopped pretending.

We got that champagne love, don't let it fizzle out. by Whistler_King {T}

Freshly broken up with, Jake needs a date to his sisters wedding - Bradley’s just being a good friend by putting himself forward as a plus one, right?

(fake) partners in crime by winterbucky {T}

When Rooster finally makes it onto the curise ship, he hasn't slept in over 38 hours, which is exactly why Hangman is able to sell the lie so perfectly. After all, pretending to be together is a small price to pay for a free upgrade on a holiday cruise ship, complete with a fancy apartment and unlimited drinks. There's only teeny tiny issue - Rooster is helplessly in love with Hangman, and the man's a perfect boyfriend. Almost too perfect. Like it's not play-pretend, but real... But it's not like Hangman can feel the same way, right? or fake dating for upgrades turns fluffy turns real with a side of great bf hangman, stupid rooster, and hangman's batshit insane family

my heart’s been borrowed and yours has been blue by k0ralik {T}

“I just really need a date for this wedding, okay?” “And you can’t go alone because…?” Bradley asks, confused, pushing his luck. Hangman’s been surprisingly honest, and Bradley would lie if he said it doesn’t make his body thrum with something that seems a bit too much like excitement. “‘Cause my ex is gonna be there and there’s no way in hell I’m going alone.” Bradley whistles. “Well, okay, good luck, man.” “Actually, I forgot to tell you…” Phoenix starts, and Bradley knows this tone. She sounds sheepish. He furrows his brow, already not liking what she will say. or: bradley and jake both need a fake date to their best friends' wedding. they decide to go together.

Lights, camera, bitch smile (even when you wanna die) by OfTheDirewolves {M}

Agents Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw and Jake "Hangman" Seresin are the best at what they do. Now they have to go undercover as couple to uncover a secret plot that could save millions of lives. The only problem? They haven't talked in 6 years. or Jake and Bradley have to go undercover with each other which wouldn't be a problem except for the fact that they're still stupidly in love with each other and neither of them wants to admit it. Can they complete their mission and get out of this unscathed or will hearts be broken once more?

Love's a Game (Wanna Play?) by indybob {T}

“It’s a good thing you know one very handsome and eligible naval aviator who can fill the role for you.” Jake almost can’t believe what he’s hearing. Bradley is actually willing to help him out with this? Does the brunet have any idea of what he’s getting himself into? The two of them are going to have to hold hands, wrap their arms around each other, call each other pet names, kiss each other, and be casually affectionate in every way in front of his entire family. Either Bradley is absolutely insane, or he’s just a great man who’s willing to help his friend out. “Are you actually saying you’d be down to act as my fake boyfriend for five days?” Bradley shrugs, a cheeky grin on his face. “That depends…” “On what?” ”Are you asking me?” Or: Jake finds himself in need of a fake boyfriend for his sister’s wedding. Bradley, as it turns out, is the only person he knows who can play the role.

temporary romance by jireusang {M}

Rooster blinks. “And you came to me for this?” Hangman shrugs, like, if he has any of the same worries, he’s letting them slide off his shoulders and fall to the floor with no care in the world. “Javy won’t give up his trip to Hawaii with his girlfriend for me,” he says, lazily. “But you have nothing else going on this summer, right?” And Rooster pauses because he kind of has a strong point. “Just a week?” Rooster asks. “Just a week,” Hangman confirms. Rooster breathes out, and Hangman tacks on a, “Please?” with that stupid, sweet-talking smile. And Rooster decides that maybe a pool and a Texan sun is worth acting like he’s dating Jake Seresin in the shade.

Married At First Sight by crowstakeflight {T}

Jake's at the coffee shop he frequents when a man walks in and pretends to be in a relationship with Jake in order to use the restroom.

[paceypeternathanslawyer]

I'm halfway through 4x02 of Outer Banks and I truly can't see how Topper gets redeemed like so many people say... but the real truth is that no matters what happens he will never be redeemed in my eyes. Topper is an irredeemable, abusive, controlling, psychopath and nothing he does will make me forgive him. Honestly I can't imagine Topper ever admitting he's been wrong or to blame for anything.

I mean here's a dude who beat up John B and nearly drowned him and the only reason he stopped short of killing John B was because JJ put his gun against Topper's head (BTW this was before Sarah cheated on Topper with John B. Important note cause you can't make the argument that he was justified. Not that this would be justified regardless but I just think it's needs to be noted). Did John B press charges? He should have but no. John B probably felt like no one would believe a practically homeless teen on the wrong side of the tracks vs some rich dude with a lot of power plus he was running away from being taken by the DCS at that point. But regardless, that was psychotic behavior. And yet in season 3 when Sarah cheated on John B with Topper and John B punched Topper and then punched him like twice more when he was down... Topper tried to press charges against John B. Those whole episodes Topper acts like he's such a victim and John B is such a psycho for punching him when he was down when Topper fucking tried to drown John B. And then when Sarah and he reconcile, Topper spies on them and in a fit of rage burns down the house that John B, Sarah, and their friends are in. Like let's not forget who started this war Topper!! And even in 4x02 which is like 8 episodes before the end of series, up to this point at least, Topper is still a pretentious jealous prick who can't admit that he's been wrong in the past.

Let's recap what Topper has done. Just of the things that come quickly to mind...

He got John B fired from his job

He nearly had sex with Sarah but then she pulled away and changed her mind, he acted all pissy and upset with her.

I believe he beat up Pope. Both he and Rafe did. Rafe was the one who took it way too far but I do seem to recall Topper took a part in the beating.

He pushed John B off of some sort of tree house that was high up in the air and John B was lucky to have survived

He horribly beat up and nearly drowned John B while also making horrible comments about how John B's father had drowned and asking if he wanted to be like his father.

In a fit of rage he burned a house that Sarah, John B, Pope, JJ, Cleo, and Kiara were in

He persecuted John B and contributed to trying to get him arrested for a murder he did not commit simply because he was jealous and angry at John B. There's no fucking way Topper would have cared otherwise. Certainly not to that extent.

He called Sarah a slut after she cheated on him in S1. Let the record show that John B never called Sarah a slut even after being betrayed by her in S3.

Just because he's saved Sarah a few times doesn't make him a good person. Of course he's saved Sarah, he's fucking obsessed with her to a scary extreme that causes him to persecute and nearly kill people for so much as looking at her. I mean even the most evil people in history have people in their lives that they care enough or are obsessed with enough to save from death. And he tried to control and manipulate her. Even if he saves John B in the future it would be suspect to me cause the only way he would do that would be to get in Sarah's good graces. The only way I would believe that he changed is if he spent many many years improving himself. And that would mean him becoming more accepting of the pogues and also doing nice things that Sarah doesn't know about and wouldn't benefit his relationship with Sarah whatsoever. He needs to show that he has changed in every area of his life and for no other reason than to be a good person. He would need to apologize to John B, Pope, Sarah, and everyone else he has wronged. I need to believe that he feels true shame for his past actions. Sarah is scared of Topper that's why she wouldn't say that she was married to John B. It wasn't shame or a lack of dedication to John B. The girl is very much aware of the anger that is within Topper and she is scared of it.

On another note. It's so interesting to me the way an actor will do some massive mental gymnastics to try and act like their character is justified or a good person. Like I read somewhere that the actor who plays Topper said that Topper wasn't jealous of Sarah being with the pogues. He was just scared for her safety because the pogues live dangerous lives. BITCH!! You fucking nearly killed Sarah in a fire after seeing her about to have sex with John B so don't act like this is about her safety not jealousy. I think he needs to get all his senses in check and maybe stock up on some brain cells. Topper doesn't care about Sarah he's just a possessive son of a bitch who is determined to own her.

AGGGHHH I hate that guy's ugly face and even uglier personality. Mostly talking about the character here but I must admit the horribleness of that character has shaded how I look at that actor. I'm usually pretty good at separating the two but this is a hard one. I have a hard time when the actor refuses to fully admit that they play a villain. I can't look at Dacre Montgomery the same way because of how he tried to make excuses for Billy and said that Billy wasn't racist even though the Duffers confirmed that Billy was racist and it's also fucking obvious that he's a racist. All I ask is that actors have a modicum of self awareness and also a bit of integrity while playing these characters. This is like the dangerous kind of method acting where in extreme cases it makes people act horrible behind the scenes to their fellow actors or in this case people will get so into the head of their characters that they can't or refuse to see the bad in the characters. Method acting didn't used to be this bad.

Edit: BTW the problem isn't that Topper has been angry and jealous. The problem is how he reacts to his anger and how he stokes his anger. I mean if we take each event we can see how he reacted in a psychotic manner. For one, when he nearly drowned John B it was for no other reason except prejudice because he's a pogue. I can't remember what the exact instigation was but I know that it did not warrant that reaction. And also he seemed to take too much pleasure in trying to kill John B. I feel like even the most ardent Topper defender would admit that he acted psychotic there. And that prejudice has not changed. He still hates pogues simply because they are pogues. He's still pretentious and hateful. Secondly, after he finds out that Sarah cheated on him with John B, he pushed him off of the tall tree house. Again John B could have died. That was a gross overreaction. If he had punched John B on the ground it would have been some great drama and honestly he would have been justified but his anger took his actions too far. Thirdly, before he beat up Pope... poor Pope was just minding his own business doing his job and I think they were on some country club land or something and Topper and Rafe acted like he didn't belong there maybe cause they're racist or maybe just because he's a pogue but either way it's horrible and prejudice and then Rafe and Topper beat him up for no other reason then they are prejudice and psychotic. Fourthly, when he burns down John B's house, that is in episode 3x08 I believe, which shows that he is still psychotic many years after that last incidents. Again punching John B would have been fine but instead he nearly kills 6 people. And the way he showed no shame in his actions and even moved forward in his attempt to press charges against John B... it's beyond psychotic and hypocritical.

[hectic-hector]

I am not naming any of her victims out of respect for their privacy and safety, but if they wish to come forward in the comments, they are free to do so. I've been informed that @angelbabyspice has gone through her feed to delete the posts she has made for the sole purpose of mocking and bullying people, which doesn't surprise me. I do not condone doxxing bullies or threatening to contact their employers (except in extreme circumstances where local law enforcement should also be involved, e.g. terroristic threats, stochastic terrorism, intentionally driving a person to become suicidal). I hope @angelbabyspice sees this message, because I want to tell her a few things: 1. "I don't want to see it" Nobody is forcing you to see it. You are free to scroll right past it, just as we are free to blaze a post if we so wish. We all see things we don't want to see, but we are smart enough to know that we have the ability to look away and move on with our lives. You are making the choice to not only look at art you don't like, but to obsess over it to the point that you spend hours of your time harassing those who create and share it. You are choosing to do this to yourself when you could have just kept scrolling and forgotten about it. This is on you. Don't blame other people for YOUR issues. 2. You had said in another post that people should at least lust after someone "fuckable" like Gojo. I looked him up, and he is as generic-looking an anime character as they come, in my personal opinion. But that's all it is: my opinion. I would never mock you or anyone else for being a fan. If I don't have something nice to say, I don't say anything at all, because I know how it feels to be mocked and ridiculed for my love of a fictional character, and unlike you, I DO NOT want to make other people feel the same way. 3. So, you're really tired of getting messages from people who claim you're "trolling", eh? You ARE trolling, in fact you're straight up bullying with the sole intent of trying to make people ashamed of their own completely harmless hobbies and interests for no reason at all. You. Are. Trying. To. Hurt. People. Where on earth did you get the idea that what you're doing is even remotely okay? Where did you get the idea that your victims are demented and YOU'RE the rational one? 4. WE'RE really tired of YOU making dozens of posts about us in order to mock us behind our backs. It doesn't need to be a direct message. What you are doing is cowardly and cruel. There is NOTHING to be gained by treating people the way that you do. You are literally complaining about the fact that we are standing up for ourselves against your smear campaigns, which we are all well within our rights to do. You have a lot of nerve trying to make yourself out to be the victim in all of this. YOU made the choice to be a bully; you can make the choice to stop, own up to what you've done, apologize, and move on in a healthier direction in life. Wouldn't you rather have friends and allies than enemies? 5. I have no idea who doxxed you, but I know it's not the person you suspect, because we are both very much AGAINST doxxing. I am sorry that happened to you, but honestly, what did you expect? You have done nothing on Tumblr but go out of your way to treat other people like garbage. You have proudly made it your mission to hurt and humiliate them, and you know this. Where on earth did you get the idea that this wouldn't backfire on you? 6. Actions have consequences. Respect must be earned. You are bullying innocent people whose hobbies have NO effect on you whatsoever. There are so many horrible things happening in the world today: war, famine, hate crimes, animal abuse, child abuse, etc. etc., but total strangers sharing their love for fictional characters is the hill you are choosing to die on? Really? Churchill once said that a person is only as big as the things that make him mad. Think about what this says of you.

[gellavonhamster]

u ship smoker and tashigi! 😭i luv them sm!! what is the most thing u like in them? And why u love them!?

Ok let's see, I can rarely put into words coherently why I ship one pairing or another, so I'm gonna freestyle here

I do remember telling @patron-saints when asked the same question that I like ships where both characters look in the same direction as much as they look at each other. I think this might be the thing I like about them the most - that both of them are people with a strong moral compass who try to do the right thing even if it goes against the rules, dedicated to pursuing actual justice not whatever passes for it for most other Marines. (I do wonder where they're gonna end up by the end of One Piece because I don't think that at this point the whole institution of the Marines can really be fixed). It's not an easy path, but they walk it together and they push each other to be better while at it. I love the moment in Punk Hazard where she literally yells at him that they should survive by any means whatsoever, even if it takes swallowing their pride, because they can't just throw away their lives - they have a duty to others:

And she's right! And he listens! And she's basically talking to him the way he talked to her in Alabasta when he urged her to become stronger, there's nothing nice about it but it works because that's how he operates and she knows it well by now. It also shows how more confident she's become and how they've grown used to working with each other - I don't think she would've dared to talk to him like that in Alabasta. And he, in turn, trusts her to carry on with their duty on her own and replace him as the leader if he doesn't come back...

...because she has become stronger and he knows that. (He's also protecting her here, and I think he also knows that appealing to her sense of duty would be more likely to make her not follow him into danger than insinuating she's not strong enough to face that danger with him. Because by now he also knows well how she operates). Not to make the same post again, but there's a similar moment in One Piece: Stampede, and it's, like. If I had a nickel for every time Tashigi wanted to follow Smoker into what might be a suicide mission and he had to force her to stay behind, I'd have two nickels, etc. So, battle couple but less in the sense of physically fighting back to back and more in the sense of fighting the same battle, working in tandem, guiding each other, and having each other's back. Or something.

Speaking of Punk Hazard, I don't think the bodyswap plot was done well with them. I think it was mostly an excuse to show Tashigi with her boobs out. But it did make my brain go brrrr because I started thinking about how he ought to apologize to her for being so careless with her body because poor girl must have caught a cold and probably developed a nicotine addiction, and imagining how that apology would go led me to ao3, and the rest is history (which included me writing my own take on the apology). Though I do think some seeds were sown in my mind way before that arc...

...for example, I feel like this panel in particular did something to my psyche.

Which brings us to the more headcanon-based and less serious part. I imagine their potential romance would grow to be a steady, solid thing based on partnership and trust (which is the kind of relationship I tend to ship because I'm boring like that <3), but it would start out extremely awkward. Because she's a sweet clumsy girl who tries hard to make people take her seriously and he's a gruff, rather rude guy who has a kind heart underneath that. Also, they're probably very much are not supposed to get into such kind of relationship considering that she's his subordinate. Potential for cute AND funny AND slightly angsty scenarios, for dancing around each other without knowing how to make the next step, whether to make the next step. Also for copious amounts of unresolved sexual tension... and what it would result in when it is finally resolved. And I like that for my ships.

(Also, lemme be shallow real quick: I think they're both hot, and even hotter together)

TL;DR I just think they're neat

[daenysthedreamer101]

TVD S7 Thoughts

Ok so I binge-watched S7 in like three days and I have thoughts, I wanna talk about it

Lily OMG ughhhh, just...did not like her. Imagine being Damon and Stefan - you think your mom dies, oops she's actually a vampire. She becomes a ripper, goes on a ripper binge through Europe and in the meantime finds a whole new family.

I too would be pissed if my mom abandoned me and then had other children and never looked for me again. I know she did visit them once in the beginning and the bloodlust scared her away but like, she could've tried again some time after that or something.

The Heretics annoyed the hell out of me. Most of them were useless and died quickly (Malcolm, Oscar). Beau does nothing really. It's mostly the female Heretics who have the spotlight.

Valerie was sooo...idk weird to me? Her being Stefan's first and getting pregnant and then Julian beating her until she lost the baby was wild I did not see that coming. And I think she was fine as a long-lost love, but her relationship with Stefan in the present timeline did nothing for me.

She was obviously insecure about Caroline and Stefan. She was stuck in the prison world for over a century but did she really think she and Stefan would just be able to get back together? Idk. She did help with birthing the twins so that was nice of her.

Mary Lou and Nora annoyed me so much in the beginning but I grew to like them by the end and I did feel bad for them when that exploded in that car

The time skips and flash-forwards were confusing and annoying and I didn't like them at all idk why they did them

Enzo my love! I like him better this season. Love the new hair lol.

He and Bonnie were cute. I like the progress Bonnie made through the show of her hating vampires and now she's dating one lol

Reyna Cruz, where do I begin? No offense to the actress but I feel like they should've gotten someone a bit more muscular? A bit taller or bigger? I know she has superhuman strength and all but she was not scary whatsoever. But apparently, even Klaus was afraid of her so what do I know?

Caroline and Alaric....uhmmm yeah...that was a thing that happened. Did he really need to propose to her? I know it makes raising the kids easier but like c'mon. Ric falling in love with Caroline was just yucky!

Matt suddenly being so anti-vampire makes no sense but also makes total sense? On one hand, it's like, dude you've been helping them and have been friends with them for years, and now all of a sudden you are against them.

On the other hand, I guess you can say it was boiling inside Matt for a while and it all came to the surface. Also, did the writers really need to have him kill his own fiance? That was so cruel like damn!

Another thing on Enzo, his thing with Lily was soooo...like why? I just- I- NO! I can't put it into words how much it weirded me out.

Julian, hmmm. It seemed like he actually did care for the heretics so that was nice. Also, I have to say, wonderful acting. Idk who played him but I really enjoyed his performance.

I did enjoy seeing Klaus even if for a few minutes. I also watched the crossover ep of TO where Stefan is in New Orleans. Did I know what was going on? No, not really, but I like that Stefan did a little side quest lol. Not Hayley remembering she snapped Caroline's neck once lmao

Love that Stefan got to meet Freya and Marcel that was so cool.

I just remembered the Armory, I don't know what to say. I know the Sirens were in that vault, so I guess that's in the next season? I wonder how ridiculous s8 will be?

Overall, felt very meh about it. I still think that S 1-3 are superior and everything after that went downhill. But it was still better than S5.

[naiadere]

euphoria

yandere! mnemosyne’s dream perfumer headcanons

content warnings: follows perfumer wearing the ss skin, not mnemosyne's dream perf; implied forced relationship, implied past non-con touching

perfumer has me giggling and kicking my feet in the air ngl 😭😭 next post will be about miss keigan <3

— yan! mnemosyne’s dream perfumer who gets all dressed up in her most lavish and luxurious skin. sitting at her grand vanity with one of her legs crossed over the other, staring into the mirror as she fixes her makeup. she expects that you're already sitting besides her, on the rectangular cushion-seat, and when she sees you're not, she waves you over and pats the empty space to her right. if you were anyone else, she'd snap her fingers and not even spare you a glance as she curls her lashes, but you're her darling -dove and although her face reads faux annoyance, simply looking at you does wonders in lifting her mood (and fastening her heartbeat).

— yan! mnemosyne’s dream perfumer who continues to stare into the reflective glass, lips curling into a smug smile when she hears you approach, feels your presence so very close to her, knowing that you've returned right back to her-- exactly how it should be. you may be under the impression that she's paying you no mind whatsoever, that her attention is focused on beautifying her already lovely face. but if you continue to look at the mirror that stands before the two of you, you'll see her eyes trail over your figure through the corner of her thickly-lashed eyes.

— yan! mnemosyne’s dream perfumer who lets out an long, exasperated sigh. setting down the makeup utensils and extending her arm around your shoulder. she's meticulous with her hand placements, her arm once resting on your shoulder now sliding dangerously close to the side of your neck as she reels her forearm in, locking the open space right in front of your neck and pressing into your throat. her left arm finds its way to your torso, slowly working its way up to your chest, and she's finally satisfied when the palm of her hand is placed flat over your heart. your breath hitches, feeling the constriction in her movements, and she's pleased to know your heart is beating just as fast as hers is.

— yan! mnemosyne’s dream perfumer who leans her head onto your shoulder, the rest of her body subconsciously doing the same. your eyes are trained to the mirror, and although this is most certainly not the first time you've found yourself on the receiving end of her suffocating affections, the intimate and fleeting touches still make you nervous. she purses her lips, and the hand once placed over your chest finds it's way to your chin, cupping the sides of your face, "perhaps you want some attention as well, hm?"

— yan! mnemosyne’s dream perfumer who planned on dolling you up regardless of if you stubbornly protested or willingly submitted. what kind of lover would she be if she didn't dress you up to show you off? she's gentle when applying any cosmetics on you, which contrast her often bitter and harsh words that she hides her warmer feelings behind. she knows what products are compatible with your skin type, and what styles compliment your features, she knows which designer clothes fit just right against your body, and what matching jewelry is flashy enough to let everyone else know that you're hers. but of course, nothing wards off unwanted pursuers like her signature perfume that she practically douses you in.

you don't often find yourself partaking in any of the violent struggle games, even less-so nowadays with the perfumer insisting you stay away from any of those barbaric matches. she'd scoff, telling you it was child's play, and rather unnecessary. why play in a game with all those other survivors and two hunters when you could sit pretty in her care? but perhaps she was feeling nice, or your continuous obedience has finally satiated her raging nerves, because she allows you to play in a duo hunter's match, with her of course.

the lakeside village doesn't have the most romantic scenery, of the few maps available for the violent struggle game-mode, it'd likely be considered the least romantic of the three. but the perfumer is nothing if not improvisational, leading you by hand to the far side of the lakeside village, to the shore that overlooked the gloomy ocean besides the old wooden boat. she lightly brings your hand to her lips, kissing it gently before spinning her heel, and you watch as an opulent chair manifests behind her.

she lightly pinches the sides of her dress by her hips, gathering her dress as she takes a seat. her hands brush over thighs, dusting off the non-existent grime, and she looks up at you with expectant eyes and a knowing grin. your frown doesn't deter her, and she innocently tilts her head, patting her lap as you continue to stand still. you can't help your eyes that instinctively the area — as if your companionship with the perfumer was exactly secret anyway — and you hang your head shamefully, as you walk towards her.

just as you're barely within her arms reach, she stretches a hand out, arm snaking around your waist as she guides your leg to rest against her sides. you're hesitant to fully sit down, but she's persistent, and your body is putty in her hands as she simply does the rest for you, only stopping until you're comfortably straddling her lap. she has a cheeky expression on her face, sighing sweetly as her arms find their way around your waist once more. the perfumer pulls you closer, her hands now intertwined on either side of your caged body, and although you express your concerns for your teammates that have been shouting for help (now dwindling in numbers), she simply brings her index finger to her lips with a careless smile.

[berrypass-de-murdler]

2 - 82 A Brutal Murder in Brutalist Housing

Murdle Advent Day3

Layabout Sable loves everybody so much, and gives her heart to you!

(sobbing)

DON'T READ THE EPISODES WITHOUT READING THE BOOKS!!

(OR IN THIS CASE, BEFORE OR AFTER EATING!!)

Logico tries to find a place to sleep. He’s stuck in the Brutalist Housing, which, as it sounds, is very, very horrible housing. All of the rooms are the same. Except one, which has a crumpled poster of Silverton the Legend on the wall. Logico decides he doesn’t want that one. It’s not nice to have an old man watching you sleep.

Irratino wakes up in the middle of the night, staring at nothing, with no one to hold him. He hates it. 

Meanwhile, the little Logico can barely sleep on the brick mattress, and he wakes up to a headless figure looming over him.

LOGICO: [incredible scream] My LORD, Taupe!! What on earth do you want?!

Taupe jumps and runs in place. It is very panicked.

LOGICO: I can’t understand.

Taupe not only can’t talk - it can’t even do proper charades due to lack of arms! 

TAUPE: [aggressive]  -- --- -. … - . .-.

Radical Crimson and Bluski barge into the room and slam the door, out of breath.

LOGICO: Seriously! What is your problem?? R. CRIMSON: Go see for yourself.

The cowardly suspects back against a wall as an annoyed Logico opens the door. The smell of rotting flesh overwhelms him, and he looks up to see a greasy, dripping, vaguely humanoid skinwalker with hollowed-out sockets for eyes and torn skin hanging off everywhere.

GRAYWALKER: WWWAAAAAAHHHHHH NO NO NO NO NO

Making nonstop Chewbacca sounds, the monster picks up Logico, who screams like a little girl and punches the thing in the face. 

GRAYWALKER: WAHH-GICO. WAHH-GICO WOOOOOHH. [horrific sound that resembles laughing]

It throws Logico into another room, where a body is located. He should have listened to Taupe!

R. CRIMSON: KILL IT! KILL IT NOW!!

The Graywalker starts sobbing and ducks behind Logico. 

LOGICO: I’ll let… the CDC kill it. For now, I have to solve a murder… BLUSKI: LOGICO! You need to get that thing away from us!

The Graywalker has imprinted on Logico, and pats his head, getting discolored slime all over him that smells like shit.

LOGICO: WHY CAN’T YOU DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT?!

The smell (and general wetness) is getting to everyone. Logico has to trap this thing AND solve the murder at the same time. But one of those things is slightly more important.

R. CRIMSON: DIE, BITCH!

She runs at it with a small knife. She slices its side, and it screams like a pterodactyl. The Graywalker pounces on her, pins her down, and vomits in her hair. R. CRIMSON: [screams of agony]

Taupe rushes in to save her, and knocks the thing out of the way. It stomps loudly, and the Graywalker sits, looking dejected.

LOGICO: All right. I have an idea. But everyone HAS to keep quiet.

Bluski hurries out and takes a death trap from the Red arsenal. Logico places the only food around - a piece of broccoli lodged in the wall - into the trap, and the four duck into a corner as they wait for the thing to die.

The Graywalker unsurprisingly has no interest whatsoever in the wall broccoli, and tears open ceiling boards to reveal a bucket of murk, which it inhales.

R. CRIMSON: Why the HELL would you assume it’s VEGETARIAN?!

After chugging down the grime, the Graywalker starts lumbering towards Logi and the gang again. Its walk is most terrible because it’s ALMOST human, but just not enough. Taupe lunges again, sending it flying across the room (and breaking another wall). This, of course, agitates it. But it’s only interested in Bluski…

BLUSKI: FUCK! FUCK! GET IT AWAY! 

He brings out a champagne bottle which he breaks on its head. It has little reaction, aside from slurping up any alcohol it can get. But Logico isn’t fooled - the bottle has normal human blood on it!

LOGICO: Murderer! BLUSKI: The person was a messenger trying to make me fight for Major Red… I don’t want to fight. I only want to spread propaganda. I’m done fighting… I don’t want to- LOGICO: Hey, hey. It’s alright.

You know what’s not alright, the Graywalker is still there! Taupe to the rescue. It kicks the walker’s ass and forces it to walk with it all the way to the hospital.

Logico doesn’t have time to figure out what the ACTUAL FUCK that was. He has just received the most disturbing message of his life.

“Logico, it’s Irratino! They’re- they’re- they’re going to cut off my body! HURRY! HELP!! Help…”

When Logico checks the newspaper, it’s true - Irratino is scheduled for a public execution the following morning.

The end!

Sweet dreams everyone

by everyone i mean raven and blue :'D

The power of Goat Lord compels you!

See you next time murdlers!

[noa-de-cajou]

Day 18 : One of them is sick / Cooking / Hugs

Lycarn belongs to @hel-phoenyx , Agathe to @thal-ent and Ai to @corneille-but-not-the-author

_____

My palm presses itself against a forehead. Burning hot. The second one gives me the same result.

“Well, no doubt about it, you two are definitely sick.”

Lycarn groans, Agathe pouts. Both of them are sitting on a bed in the harem, faces beet-red. I felt it as soon as I came in, the acid smell of sweat, characteristic of sickness, then I found my wives entangled on the mattress and unable to get up. Behind me, Ai clears her throat.

“Is it severe?”

I shake my head. They’re not siffling, their lymph nodes aren’t swollen, their throats are only a little irritated.

“Nah, mostly just a strong fever. Meaning…”

I try to look firm. Damn it, why is it so much easier with the kids…

“Today, you two need to rest. Doctor’s orders.”

Lycarn falls directly onto the mattress with a tiny little noise of protest. With her black mage condition, she's used to being sick, I'm used to taking care of her, no biggie.

Agathe, however, seems a little puzzled. She attempts to get up, but her limp wings glue her to the bed. Yeah, honey, if you don't even have the strenght to lift your wings, just how do you intend to stand?

“Agathe, lay down.”

“But… The girls…”

Kalerich, who remained silent up until know, raises a hand.

“I'll take care of them for today. If you’ll let me.”

That's my man. Agathe doesn't look convinced, but it’s not like she has a choice. I push her gently and she falls on her side, right on the mattress. Both her and Lycarn are absolutely cooked.

Speaking of cooked, I should probably whip something up for them. Something light, soup, maybe? Or mashed vegetables. I’d love to make minced meat for Lyc, but, eh, me and meat-

A hand pats my shoulder. Right. I’m getting carried away in my own thoughts again. Ai is looking at me, a worried expression on her beautiful face.

“Ether, will it be okay? I can summon a healer if needed.”

I shake my head, gently caress her cheek.

“It’s fine. Nothing I haven't seen before.”

“That’s not what I mean.”

Oh. Right.

It’s true that I've been… well, simply put, my health has been shit since we came back from Wuqi. Migraines, worsened chronic pains, insomnias and hypersomnias, fatigue, the whole package. Which sucks ass when you're the imperial physician and a mom of three. But I've been feeling better these last few days, so… Eh, should be okay.

“I'll be just fine, love.”

“Are you sure? I'll stay if I could, but…”

But I'm the Empress, says the bitter curve of her lips.

“Listen, Ai. If you have some time today, you can always swing by. But don’t feel bad for leaving us, okay?”

She gives a reluctant nod, and I kiss her on the forehead. Hers is cool, that's great. She leaves after a sad look to Agathe and Lyc, it breaks my heart. Ruling a country really sucks sometimes, I've seen enough rulers to know that, and hey, I'm a ruler myself now. Being a doctor suits me much better, though.

Time to get to work and check on my loves. They’re both shivering, I pull out the extra blankets and settle them in nice and comfy, making sure Agathe’s wings can rest comfortably. Next, water. Lots of water. Then food, some remedies to calm their fever and lots of sleeping. That should do the trick.

“I’ll go get a few things, okay? I’ll be right back.”

A hand grabs my sleeve as I get up to go. It's Agathe.

“Don't leave.”

That's… unusual, coming from her. But I know that fevers can easily bring out anyone’s vulnerable side.

“I’ll only be gone a few minutes, Aggie. You won't even notice I'm gone.”

She squeezes harder. There’s a genuinely fearful expression on her face, even with her eyes still closed.

“Stay.”

Okay. Hum. Well. Guess I'm stuck here.

Luckily Kalerich hasn’t left yet.

“Kal? Before you go wake the girls up, can you go and fetch some stuff for me?”

He nods without any hesitation whatsoever. I give him the list of what I need, the foods Agathe and Lycarn like, tell him where the medications are in my office. He nods intently and by the second I'm done, he’s outta the door. What a man.

“Well, there you go, Agathe. I’m staying.”

A small smile of relief spreads across her face. That's better. She softly nuzzles her burning cheek into my hand.

“Thanks, Irène.”

Oh.

Oh, I get it now.

You only wanted her to stay, hm? Even if she was afraid of you. You only needed her to stay.

I understand that all too well. Doesn't mean the name doesn't sting a little. Just a tiny bit.

“Her name’s Ether, Agathe,” Lycarn mumbles in a brief moment of lucidity.

“Right… Sorry, Ether…”

Okay, that does get a chuckle outta me. I can never feel sad for too long with those two.

Kalerich comes back to drop my stuff, gives me a quick kiss on the hair like the sly motherfucker he is, then leaves. He even mashed the veggies and minced the meat. Perfect.

Spoonfeeding your wives is way more ridiculous that you’d expect, but they’re really cute, munching quietly and grimacing at the taste of the medicine. I hope it's gonna work. They might be adorable like this but I prefer them healthy. It feels weird when Lyc doesn't have the energy to growl at me. I’d rather have a wolf than a sick puppy.

“Come on, you two need to get some shut-eye.”

“But my eyes are already shut…”

I snort at Agathe’s remark. Right.

“Sleep. I mean sleep.”

“But there’s so much to do…”

“You can take care of it later, angel.”

“But…”

I start to caress her hair aaaaand there she goes. Asleep, just like that. Lycarn is still fighting off sleep, her feverish gaze fixed on me.

“What’s wrong, Lyc? Do you need more water?”

“... Can I get a hug?”

…

Usually I'd refuse. But I don’t think she's contagious and, well, no one with a heart could say no to those eyes.

So I embrace her and press my cheek against her forehead. A little less hot. Good.

“Thanks…”

“No problem, Lyc. I love you.”

She doesn't even have time to reply, she's already asleep. When I see their faces, I have to wonder, did they overwork themselves too much? Since I've been a little down in the dumps, maybe they had to fill in the gaps and now they’re paying the price.

Ah, I'm dumb. That’s not the point. Whether it’s my fault or not, we take care of each other. That's just what we do.

I hold Lycarn closer.

I’d do this every day if I had to.