#shout out to you if you know the song eight by sleeping at last

[starscollide0]

I'm shattered porcelain, glued back together again

Invincible like I've never been

[austinswhitewolf]

Watching You

Hello everyone!! I heard this song the other day and this idea hasn't left me since. So I had to put it down and @klizzie93 helped. Thank you lovely! The thought of how great of a dad Austin will be makes my heart melt. I am always open for requests if anyone has any.

You and Austin had been together for eight years now. Four years ago, you had the wedding of your dreams, beautiful, quiet, intimate and on the beach. Only family and very close friends were in attendance to celebrate with you. 

It was maybe a half year later that you had surprised him with a little Elvis onesie. He had been over the moon, tears of joy falling down his face as he spun you around and couldn’t stop holding you. The next week, whenever he was within arms reach, he was always touching you in some way shape or form. As your belly grew, he started to bring home little outfits and stuffed animals. When you were three months, the both of you had decided to start decorating the nursery so it wouldn’t need to be done near the end of your pregnancy. It had been hard, but you were able to keep it from the public until you announced it when you were five months along. It was partly thanks to it being winter when you first were starting to show. The announcement was of your belly with his hands over it, and your hands over his. When you had the gender reveal and found out you were having a little boy, you were over the moon, a little Austin running around. As the months rolled by, you were getting more antsy, sore and finding it hard to get comfortable. There were nights you had trouble sleeping as the little one would not settle down for very long. Or kept kicking your bladder making you jump up and race to the bathroom. As your due date rolled around, Austin had made sure to have the month leading up to your due date off as well as nothing set in stone for work. The few days before you went into labor, you were crabby and couldn’t control your emotions very well. Austin, god bless the man, was there the entire time, getting you whatever you needed, helping you stand up or sit down, rubbing your back gently to help with pain. And he never once let anything you said go to heart. When your water broke, you were laying in bed, trying to get some sleep but your lower back was sore and you could not get comfortable. It was in the middle of the night when you went to shift to your other side that you felt your water break. It took you a few moments to realize what had just happened. When you grabbed Austin’s arm, he cracked his eyes open and the look on your face had him shooting up in bed.

The moment you told him it was time, he jumped out of bed, threw on a pair of joggers, a t-shirt and sweatshirt before helping you up out of bed, getting you into something dry and comfortable before he grabbed the go bag you had gotten ready last week. He helped you down the stairs and to the kitchen, where he set the bag on the island while he proceeded to race around looking for his phone, keys and wallet. Had this been any other situation, you would find it adorable at how flustered he was. You shuffled to the counter near the doorway to the mudroom, grabbed his keys and wallet and shouted to Austin when you heard him bound back up the stairs, that his phone was on the dresser. It was six hours later that little Alexander James Butler came into the world. You didn’t know you could love him any more than you did when he was in your belly but you were wrong. Austin and you were in awe at how beautiful he was, how tiny his fingers were. A week after you had gotten home, you posted a photo of Alexx’s little hand wrapped around Austin’s little finger. The first month took a bit of figuring things out before you both had a system figured out. 

As the weeks turned into months and firsts with Alexx passed by, you couldn’t help dressing him up like his daddy.

When Austin’s birthday rolled around, you pulled out a box you had been very sneaky in hiding, and it took a bit to actually make the gift happen. When he opened it, it was a new carhartt jacket and tucked underneath was a perfectly matching miniature one for Alexx. The amount of pure adorableness that filled the house when Austin put the jacket on and then slid Alexx into his for a few photos, made your heart melt. Alexx’s first word was ‘mama’ but it wasn’t long before he followed it with ‘dada’. When Alexx had started to hold onto furniture to take a few steps, Austin was always hovering, worried about him falling and hitting his head. Alexx was 11 months old, he took his first unassisted steps from the middle of the room, where he had been playing with a few toys, over to Austin. The video call Austin was on with his publicist and manager was quickly ended and he spent the rest of the afternoon encouraging Alexx to walk between you and him. It was around then that he moved from single words to short sentences. He really was a mini me to Austin, always wanting to do what he was doing, wear what he was wearing. You never got upset over this. It was something that you had always dreamed of. When Alexx turned one, you had a big party with both your family and Austin’s as well as a few select friends. When Austin went back to work, he did filming where he could be home each night. Once Alexx was old enough you started to travel with Austin so he wouldn’t be away from the two of you for long. Your job was one you could easily do remotely from anywhere as long as you had internet, and that wasn’t ever an issue. It was during filming of a movie in Canada, that the three of you decided to head to a local park. With it being a little chilly out, you had Alexx bundled up in his carhartt jacket that matched Austins, and a little knit hat. You had made sure to get a new matching jacket everytime Alexx grew out of the current one. The three of you were on a blanket on the grass, you and Austin were just relaxing as it was a full day off for him. Lunch had been eaten a while ago and now Alexx was playing with a few of his dinosaurs. You were starting to doze off in the warmth of the sun when you heard Alexx say ‘Shit’ causing you to shoot up and look at him with wide eyes. “What did you just say Alexx?” You could not believe it, looking over at Austin who’s eyes were also wide. “Shit” He said, not knowing why you were looking at him like that. “That’s a bad word. Where did you hear that word, Alexander!?” You lifted him up and stood him between your legs, looking into blue eyes that were a mirror image of your husband’s. “Daddy said it yesterday. I want to be like him! We match!” The innocence in his voice, had you not been so shocked, would have been adorable. But when the words registered, your head slowly turned to look at Austin. He was biting his lip to keep from laughing. When he saw the look on your face, he couldn’t hold it in anymore, the laughter bubbling out. “Austin Robert Butler! What… When… Why did he hear you say that?” “I was on the phone with Kate, talking about the publicity circuit that I’m going to have to start after this wraps up here. I smashed my toe on the corner of the dresser, honestly, I thought he was sleeping.” 

You shook your head at him and rolled your eyes. Of course, you knew this was bound to happen some time, just not this soon. Alexx was always watching everything Austin did and was trying to copy him and do what he was doing. When Austin would play his guitar, Alexx had to pull his little one out and play with him. When Austin would cook, he had to be there helping. “I swear, one day, you will be sorry. He is going to be causing trouble like you. And breaking hearts before you know it.” The look on Austin’s face at those words had you laughing now. “It’s Kismet Aus.” You smiled, kissing him on the cheek before turning back to Alexx. “No more using that word okay baby? There are some words that are bad and that is one of them.” Gently pulling the knit cap off his little head that was crooked, you smoothed his hair down before placing it back on straight. You then pulled the zipper back up that had started to slide down. “Daddy! Lets slide!” Alexx shouted, holding his arms out to Austin, his fists clenching closed and back open over and over. You just rolled your eyes in loving exasperation. Austin stood up, leaning down to scoop Alexx up into his arms before giving you a kiss quickly. And true to form, Alexx leaned out of Austin’s arms to kiss you on the cheek. A smile broke on your face as he turned and carried Alexx towards the large playground set. You pulled your phone out and took a few photos of the two of them before just happily lounging back and watching them interact. The thought about having another little one had been playing around your mind for the last few months. You would have to bring it up to Austin soon. The thought of him having two little ones in his arms just melted your heart even more. About an hour later, Alexx was getting fussy and both you and Austin knew he would need to be put down for his nap very soon. So the decision to head home was made. You gathered the blanket and bag that you brought lunch in since Alexx was squirming in Austin’s arms. “Daddy… I don’t want to leave!” He whined, putting on the best puppy eyes he could. Your husband looked at you for a moment. Hell, was this what you felt every time he gave you that look? “Buddy, I’m getting tired. Don’t you want to go home, get into comfortable pjs and curl up with me and mom for a nap? I know that’s what I want to do.” Austin said, fingers of his free hand tickling your son’s sides gently. A squeal left little lips and eyes crinkled up with joy. “Stopp Daddy!!” He squirmed even more before grabbing Austin’s hood and turning into his shoulder more. With a smile, the three of you started back to the vehicle. “Movie also?” “Sure Bubbs. Whatever movie you want.” You said, knowing he would be out like a light within the first five minutes of the movie. When you got to the vehicle, Austin made quick work of buckling Alexx into his car seat while you put the blanket and bag in the back. It wasn’t a long drive back to the apartment you were renting, but by the time Austin parked and turned the car off, Alexx was asleep. While walking into the apartment, he woke up and was groggy. Small fists rubbing at his glazed blue eyes. “Daddy, mommy, snuggle and movie now?” He asked, and oh my word, your heart melted. “Yeah, lets get changed while Daddy gets everything set up okay?” You held your arms out to take your son. He slowly leaned over towards you and you plucked him from Austin’s arms. When you went and let him pick out what he wanted to wear, Austin moved into your room, pulled the covers of the bed back and grabbed the remote for the tv, and Alexx’s blanket, before changing into a set of sleepwear that you had all gotten together on a recent shopping trip. And of course when you walked in, Alexx had the same set on. “Mommy! You need to match!” Alexx pointed to Aus as you set him down on the big bed. “Okay, I’ll go get into mine Bubbs.” 

Once you had changed also, brushed your hair out and walked back into the bedroom, a huge smile filled your face. Austin was laying on his side of the bed on his back. Alexx was lying curled against his side, little fist clenching his blanket that he had bundled up between him and Austin’s side. If only you didn’t leave your phone in the kitchen. Making your way over to the bed, you laid down on your side, arm draping over Alexx and Austin’s stomach. “We are watching Land Before Time Mommy!” Alexx said, smiling at you and snuggling down even more between the two of you. “Oooooh. That’s a good one!” You responded with a kiss to his cheek. You trailed your fingers over his fluffy golden hair while Austin started the movie. When Little Foot met Cera for the first time, you glanced down and saw Alexx sound asleep. That didn’t surprise you at all, but what did was seeing Austin sound asleep as well. Smiling, you reached up and gently brushed a strand of hair off his forehead. This was a moment you never wanted to leave. Warm, curled up with your two boys and no worries at all. 

[venturelovebot]

Fluffcember Day Three: Snow Man

A/N: Day three! So far, so good! I hope you all are enjoying it so far, because I really am! Prompt list is by @fluff-cember! Written in headcanon format.

Warnings: None! Pure fluff!

🎄 "Y/N!" They shout, startling you from your peaceful rest.

🕊️ "Sloan– oh my GOD–" You grab your chest as you hyperventilate from the jump scare.

🪽 "It snowed!" They grin.

⛄️ "Honey, we live in Canada. What's so special about the snow?" You ask as your heart still pounds away in your chest.

❄️ "It's time to build a snowman!" They state in a sing-song voice.

☕️ You look at them with a blank expression for a moment.

🍪 "You woke me up... at..." You glance at the alarm clock. "Eight in the morning... because you want to build a snowman?"

🎁 "Yep!" Their grin grows wider, showing off that same iconic chip in their front tooth.

💫 You're quiet for a minute more before you burst out laughing.

🔔 "This is exactly why I married you." You smile.

🎄 You change from your pajamas into a pair of thermal leggings and a graphic sweatshirt. Afterwards, you pull on a pair of Christmas themed socks and your sneakers before wrapping yourself in a scarf. Earmuffs adorn your ears for extra protection.

🕊️ "I already piled up what we needed!" They stand by a lump of snow.

🪽 "Nice job, sweetie!" You cheer them off as if they were a child. "Let's make a whole family, then!"

⛄️ The two of you work tirelessly rolling up the base of the snow family with your mitten covered hands.

❄️ It takes several minutes of elbow grease and determination to make two larger bases and two smaller proportioned ones.

☕️ "It's a good start!" You pat their shoulder as they finish aligning them all together.

🍪 "Middle section next!" They smile at you with a whimsical joy only found during the holidays.

🎁 You give your arms a good, long stretch before grabbing a folding chair and getting back to work.

💫 "I don't want a lot for Christmas–" They're cut off.

🔔 "Do. Not." You glare at them.

🎄 They laugh at your annoyance as the two of you continue your exhausting work.

🕊️ The afternoon sun soon shown high in the sky. It adds a fine layer of glimmer on the cold, winter ground.

🪽 They stack the torsos of the snow family atop their spherical bases and place rocks onto the surface to mimic buttons.

⛄️ "That just leaves the heads!" You're already grabbing a handful of snow and happily rolling it up.

❄️ It takes several more grueling minutes of rolling, rolling, rolling until it's finally done.

☕️ The two of you take your time to decorate the faces in various expressions.

🍪 The Papa snowman had a displeased face. His two eyebrows are cross and completed with a noticeable frown.

🎁 "Why is he so mad, though?" You can't help but wonder.

💫 "Didn't get to sleep in!" They joke.

🔔 "Ah. I can definitely relate." You pat Papa snowman on top of his chilly head.

🎄 Mama snowman had the signature happy face.

🕊️ Then, Sloan has the brilliant idea to add twig arms to her. She now looks as if she's embracing Papa snowman in a hug.

🪽 "That'll cheer him up...!" You muse to yourself.

⛄️ "I know your hugs always make me happy!" They catch you by surprise and wrap their arms around you from behind.

❄️ You laugh as they assault your face with chapstick covered kisses. Then, you secretly grab a handful of snow and toss it into their face.

☕️ "Oohhh no, you're asking for a fight now!" They swipe snow into your face next, and the snow war commences.

🍪 Perhaps you really did underestimate their snowball making skills. You're being pelted left to right without remorse, before you're suddenly tackled backwards into an excess snowdrift to cushion your fall.

🎁 Once more your face is smothered in kisses– so many that their chapstick has now transferred completely to your face and lips.

💫 "Stop! Stop!" You're running out of breath from giggling. "I give up! You win!"

🔔 "Uh huh. Don't start something you can't finish!" They snicker, helping you up and embracing you one last time to warm you up.

🎄 The two of you are quiet for a minute. Snow continues to intermittently fall around you as they rock you back and forth lightly in their arms.

🕊️ "Let's finish up the snowmen and head back inside. I put cayenne in the cocoa this time!" They grin.

🪽 "Sounds good." You return the expression.

⛄️ The first snow child had a look of bewilderment on their face. The second snow child had the appearance of disinterest. Somehow, it all tied together perfectly in its own unique way.

❄️ The two of you stand back to admire your job well done.

☕️ The sun even begins to dip near the horizon. You both had been outside all day making snowmen as if you were young again.

🍪 And, honestly, you wouldn't have it any other way.

🎁 "Oh! I know!" An idea pops into your mind.

💫 You run back inside and look for the sample of makeup blush you received at the mall the other day.

🔔 You head back outside with the packet in hand, smearing the pink powder across their cheeks for an extra dash of magic.

🎄 "Nice thinking!" They hold up their own gloved hand for a high five.

🕊️ You meet theirs with yours. The sound is muffled by the yarn adorning your fingers.

🪽 You pull out your phone and snap a picture. One without them, and one with them. They do the same for you.

⛄️ Then, before you both knew it, you're cuddling on the couch in the warmth of your shared home.

❄️ "S-spicy–!" Your fingers touch your lips.

☕️ "Too spicy?" They ask with minor concern.

🍪 You swallow a bit more of their Mexican hot chocolate and slowly grow used to the hint of cayenne. Alongside the cinnamon, it was a great addition.

🎁 You shake your head. "Just took a little getting used to...!"

💫 They nuzzle up to you as yet another Christmas movie airs on television.

🔔 "Frosty the Snowman? How fitting." You note.

🎄 Outside, you spy your snow family greeting the passing cars on the road beside your house.

🕊️ Deep inside, a part of you wishes that holiday magic shown in the movies was real.

🪽 In its own way, it certainly was.

⛄️ How could you explain the warmth in your hearts otherwise?

❄️ It's cheesy.

☕️ Then again, love is. Which is fine by the two of you.

🍪 You snuggle further up to their sweater covered chest and hear the faintest sound of their heartbeat on the other side.

🎁 "I had fun today." You admit.

💫 "So did I, mi tesoro. I didn't hurt you when you fell, did I?" They rub your back soothingly.

🔔 "No, you didn't. I'm okay." You reassure them.

🎄 "Good!" They smile down at you. "Rematch tomorrow?"

🕊️ You let out a light chuckle knowing you'd lose that fight.

🪽 But...

⛄️ "You're on." You agree.

[kokinu09]

Let Go of the Reins || Chapter 5

~*~

pairing seungmin x fem!reader

genre strangers to lovers, romance, fluff, slight angst later, happy ending, social media, not meant to be, someday

summary Australia is considered home for two of the eight members. When two tour dates are scheduled for the land down under, the boys can’t help but want to spend a bit more time there to visit family and do a little sightseeing. So how do they convince the company that they need to stay a couple weeks? Filming some SKZ Code episodes.

A local riding school just outside the city with amazing reviews for their skilled instructors and beautiful horses is hosting a very popular kpop group to film their experiences. Y/N knows the group well and she just so happens to be their star working student.

status ongoing

taglist OPEN

previous | masterlist | next

~*~

Seungmin’s leg bounces as the cars rumble along the gravel road leading up to the ranch. His neck cranes and stretches to peek past Minho’s headrest.

“This car is going to tip over if you don’t stop rocking it with how fast your leg is moving on this bumpy road,” Chan teases as he gives his arm a light shove to lighten his mood.

“What are you so nervous about anyways? Y/N was super chill yesterday,” Han asks obliviously, laidback with his eyes closed like he hadn’t gotten enough sleep last night. Which he probably didn’t.

“Her being ‘chill’ has nothing to do with this. She’s more fun to be around than any of you.”

“Ouch! You wound us Seungmin-ah~!” Minho shouts too loudly in the small confines of the vehicle.

“Ah! Hyung my ears!” Han whines. At least he’s wide awake now. Minho chuckles as he pats his knee from across the center console.

Seungmin slouches back into his seat, propping his chin in his hand as he pouts and stares out the window. Chan reaches to place a hand on his shoulder. “Everything’s gonna work out how it’s supposed to. Just enjoy the moment.”

The younger takes in his words for a moment before letting out a sigh and smiling at their leader. “Since when have you been so philosophical?”

Chan’s smile widens at his lightened mood. “I don’t know what you mean! I’ve always been this wise!” He puffs his chest proudly.

“Whatever you say, Old Man,” Seungmin pokes with a less than serious eye roll. The car fills with the eldest’s whines of protest, claiming that he’s not old, he’s only foive.

~*~

It’s mornings like these that are some of your favorites.

You laugh as you and your best friend jump around, singing, and dancing to ‘Social Path’. Only one of the many Stray Kids songs on your playlist you’ve been blasting in the wash bays with the horses. You’ve both been at it for half the morning and were finally on the last two. And of course, you’d saved the best for last, Storm and Nova.

A giggle bubbles out of you when Storm bobs his head along while you’re dancing. Seems like the love for Stray Kids might be an inherited trait.

It’s a beautiful day. The doors are swung wide open with the sunlight pouring in. A refreshingly cool breeze is a welcomed relief from how stuffy it can get when the water steams up the place. The smell of wet (but clean) horses dominating the air, a thing that might be unpleasant to some people but was oddly satisfying for you. Probably because you’d just spent the last couple of hours washing them.

You give Storm his final spray, the suds washing away and pooling at his hooves. Then you turn your hose to the floor to push them towards the drain faster.

Watching the bubbles disappear, your mind starts to drift. You’re not really ready for this moment to end. You’d rather stay in the wash bay with Liv and blast Stray Kids for the rest of the day. But you know that’s not an option.

There’s a particularly loud bray cut through the blare of the music from one of the ‘drying’ horses a few stalls away, you swear it’s Shadow, and it draws your attention towards that side of the barn. Your eyes immediately widen when you see what, or who rather, all the commotion was about.

A group of 8 men you never thought you’d meet again, Stray Kids.

With who out in front leading the charge? None other than Seungmin. The same man who confused you by posting that photo of you on his social media. An odd sense of giddiness and hope had swirled in your chest at seeing it but then your brain kicked those feelings down into the pit of your stomach with the reminder that he is an Idol. There is no ‘keeping in contact’ with someone like him.

Olivia had rushed over to the speakers when you weren’t looking and turned the music down. It’s enough to snap you out of your daze.

“Aww! I was just about to bust into my verse!” Changbin laughs out a complaint. You also don’t miss how Hyunjin and Felix are vaguely going through the motions along to the dulled music anyways.

“Uh, hey guys! We…weren’t expecting to see you here! Did I forget about another scheduled ride?! Oh my god, I’m so sorry!” Your nerves slowly turning to panic as you frantically comb your fingers through your hair, brush your shirt free of any residue from washing the horses, in a vain attempt to make yourself look presentable.

Seungmin laughs, waving his hands in front of him to ease her worries. “No, no! We’re here all on our own!” With a chuckle, he goes on when you tilt your head in confusion. “We really enjoyed our time here yesterday and were hoping for a redo.”

You stare at him.

The group of boys look at you curiously. He isn’t fazed by your silence, giving you a moment to absorb before adding, “Would you and your friend want to hang out and ride with us again?”

You must still be giving him a stupid look because Olivia shows up next to you with a sharp elbow to your ribs. “Ow,” you mumble, shooting a glare at your best friend but quickly straighten up to give the boy in front of you a much nicer smile, albeit a little awkward. “I mean, yeah, of course! We would love to but…I’m sure our boss wouldn’t appreciate us playing hooky for our shift.”

Chan pokes his head out from around Seungmin’s shoulder at that. “Actually! We’ve already cleared it with your boss! All good!” He smiles the biggest smile along with a big thumbs up.

“Oh my god! No way, really?!” Olivia exclaims while your mouth hangs open in shock. How many more curveballs will these men throw at you today?! Probably more than you can count on one hand.

~*~

taglist

@kangaracha @rainfallingfromthesky @puppysmileseungmin @defnotfertilizedtoesw @teenyfinds @bbokari711 @lakoya @chlodavids @rylea08 @keepswingin

[thedreadvampy]

We had our team Christmas party/goodbye Ruth do today. and I need to show you what my friend at work made me for a leaving present because even for him it's a work of mad genius, I was just sitting there like WHAT. WHAT IS HAPPENING.

so you know, I get leaving gifts from my team, it's lovely, notebooks, pens, gift card, fond farewells, it's lovely, people say nice things about me

then my friend Zain says "I also got you something"

Now the thing to know about Zain is his party acumen is legendary. every year we're all resigned from the off to losing at Secret Santa because his gifts are insane. last year he made his secret santa a custom play set of one of our services in a branded box with tiny props. this year he made a custom Ken doll and box representing our colleague and it has a tiny collection bucket and a "collect them all!" sticker on the back where he'd found pictures of Barbies and Kens that looked like the rest of the Fundraising team. we'd just got done with a quiz where he made a custom video package, a Family Feud round with buzzers, and TWO Photoshop picture rounds. once. ONCE. we asked him to facilitate a team meeting and he wrote and animated a theme song. the man is insane. everything he does is so thoughtful, so labour intensive, and also so off the wall weird.

so I'm intrigued. especially since all he's holding is an envelope.

he says "I got you something. It's kind of an experience."

and hands me this letter.

(there's a bunch of good bits in here but I will particularly note that "It's going" has been his perpetual refrain for months every time I ask how it's going, to the point he usually doesn't even bother saying it any more.)

ok. I am confused. what is. THE DEVICE.

he puts THE DEVICE on the table. he hands me 4 cardboard floppy discs.

THE DEVICE is a large cardboard box. You will observe that THE DEVICE has an LED on the front. You may also observe that THE DEVICE has both a button. and a set of speaker holes.

this is because upon pushing the button on THE DEVICE, it makes a jaunty startup noise and an AI voice launches into a full minute setup speech before instructing me to load the included floppy discs into THE DEVICE. during the period of silence as I feed them into the slot, THE DEVICE says things like "ow, careful!"

THE DEVICE then makes loading noises, and instructors me to open THE DEVICE to see the contents of the discs.

inside the box, there are 4 gifts, each corresponding to a floppy disc and also to a conversation we've had at some point in the last 2.5 years.

this, of course, is in reference to my infamous Blobbyland post, and indeed to the fact that Zain, who is 3 years younger than me, actually FOUND OUT ABOUT MR BLOBBY from me taking about my popular Tumblr post

Gawrsh.zip references a conversation about Goofy dying in Kingdom Hearts, the first video game I remember finishing

EIGHT MONTHS AGO Zain asked me what my top 5 films of all time were and I said easy, Mirrormask, 10 Things, Angels In America, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Fury Road, boom. He's been just HOLDING THAT INFORMATION IN HIS HEAD FOR MONTHS.

the last one is my favourite. I was like oh no what could be in this poster tube cause what's left of the floppies is NIGHTMARE.EXE.

at my Halloween party last month, to which Zain was my only work friend who made it, we watched Nightmare on Elm Street and Zain, who had recently watched some video breakdowns on it, was pointing out humorous background details. and in the sleep therapist scene, both he and Tim pointed at the screen and started shouting TRAM CATS!!! and we were all losing our shit

the thing is there's a Very Weird poster in that scene. and now. now it's in my house also.

anyway I legit almost cried this may be the most unhinged and lovely gift that anyone has ever given me. I'm going to miss working with this weirdo so much.

[lemoncrushh]

Wild Horses - Two

Summary: Amber Crosby didn’t end up with the life she’d expected, but that didn’t keep her from following her dream. A young, up and coming country recording artist, she and her band set out to do just that. Trying to leave her past behind, it wasn’t until meeting Harry Styles that she realized just how her life could take a turn and alter her future forever.

A/N: Please note all portions in italics are meant to be flashbacks :).

STORY PAGE

Chapter Two Word Count: 4.6k+

“Same hurt in every heart, same trailer, different park…” - Kacey Musgraves; Merry Go ‘Round

“You’re joking, right?” asked Brendan. “We just drove all the way to Nashville for nothing?”

“Not for nothing,” Amber shook her head. “We played a festival. That’s huge, Bren.”

Amber knew it had been a mistake not to tell them they weren’t getting paid for the gig. Her bassist scoffed just as her guitarist interjected.

“She’s right, bro,” said Johnny. “At this point, exposure is more important than how much money we made.”

“But we didn’t make any money!” exclaimed Brendan.

“Enough!” shouted Carter, banging his fists on the table. The entire band stared at him, wide-eyed. “It’s already over and done. We got to play a major gig. You got your own fucking hotel room. Now let’s move on and shut the fuck up about it!”

Amber cleared her throat, nervous to say anything else.

“Um...yeah. Let’s just...move on.”

The band was just outside of St. Louis, on their way to Kansas City. It was roughly an eight hour drive from Nashville, and they probably could have made it in one day. But with having a gig the next evening, they’d decided to break up the trip, leaving the festival after they’d played and spending the night along the way.

Grateful for a little silence, Amber finished her BLT and fruit bowl while the boys all scrolled through their phones, an occasional snort or grunt coming from each of them. She thought briefly about Harry Styles and how he’d been so kind to her earlier that day, rooting her on before she’d stepped out onto the stage, and staying for their entire set. Just before their last song, she’d turned, grabbing her guitar for the acoustic number and catching his eye as he watched from behind the equipment. He was clapping, his arms raised above his head, a huge grin on his face. She couldn’t help but feel the spark of electricity jolt through her veins as he lowered his arms and gave her a thumbs up. She felt like she played the final song the best she ever had, whether or not her bandmates noticed.

She really wished she could have stayed and seen his set. She was a fan of his, always had been, the music lover she was. She credited Faith for the One Direction introduction in her early teens as they’d argued over who was the cutest, but eventually it was more about the music for Amber, even after Faith had moved on to new obsessions.

She wondered how Faith was. It had been a while since she’d heard from her. She made a quick mental note to text her later before she wiped her hands on her napkin and rose from the table.

“You guys can stay if you like,” she announced to the boys. “I’m heading back to my room.”

Brendan and Johnny each gave nods and waves, but Carter watched her with questioning eyes as she made her way to the exit. Then dropping a couple ones on the table, he stood up so quickly, he knocked it with his knee, nearly making the drinks spill.

“Hey, watch it!” yelped Brendan.

“Sorry,” Carter breathed. “I’m gonna turn in, too.”

“Turn in?” Brendan looked at his watch. “It’s 8:30.”

“I know, but...I need a shower and...I could use a good night’s sleep.”

Running a hand through his hair, Carter turned for the door, stopping when he heard Brendan mutter under his breath.

“Could use some pussy is what you mean. Good luck with that.”

With a huff, Carter pushed open the door hard, making it rattle. He didn’t feel like taking any more of Brendan’s shit. Crossing the parking lot with a jog, he called out to Amber just before she reached her room. Looking over her shoulder, she slowed her pace before stopping. Carter caught up with her, shoving his hands in his pockets.

“What are you doing?” he asked.

Amber made a face, lifting her hand to show her room key. “Um...going inside.”

“Mind if I join you?”

Her shoulders dropping, Amber let out a loud sigh. “Yes.”

Carter raised his brow, hopeful. “Yes?”

“I mean, yes, I mind,” Amber said firmly. “I’m going to bed.”

“Sounds good to me,” he smirked, stepping closer to her.

Amber held out her hand to stop him, pressing it against his chest. “Carter...no. I told you, we’re not going there anymore.”

“C’mon, Ambs, we used to have such a good time. It was fun. Why can’t we have that again?”

“It was fun when I drank so much, I woke up puking? It was fun passing out so hard you had to pour water on my face to wake me up at all? Sounds like a fucking blast.”

Amber turned towards her motel room door, slipping the key inside.

“That’s not what I mean,” Carter said softly. “I’m talking about the other stuff.”

Pushing the door open, Amber stood just over the threshold, leaning against the frame.

“That’s just sex Carter,” she said before closing the door in his face.

Amber wouldn’t really call Faith her best friend. Her mother said she was a cousin, but Amber figured she was so far removed that she barely even counted as one. She’d grown up with Faith, however, her family’s trailer next door to hers. She was two years older and knew more about Amber than anyone, so that probably made her as good a friend as any, if not her only friend.

“Hurry up,” groaned Amber as she kicked her cowboy boot against the trailer steps.

“I’m coming, I can’t find my...oh, thank God, there it is.”

“What?” asked Amber as Faith shut the door behind her.

“Huh?”

“What couldn’t you find?”

“Oh...nothing,” Faith answered sheepishly, her dark hair blowing in the breeze. She wore far too much makeup as far as Amber was concerned, but otherwise she thought she looked pretty in her floral sundress. She had the kind of body Amber envied, and she was always quickly surrounded by boys at any social event. She knew tonight would be no exception.

“You’re sure it’s okay that I tag along?” asked Faith as they made their way to her truck.

“I told you, it’s just a party,” replied Amber, climbing into the passenger seat. “Some guy at school I barely even know. Nobody’s gonna care if you tag along. Besides, you’re my ride.”

Faith gave her younger cousin a smirk and shifted the truck into reverse, backing out of the gravel parking space.

“So you don’t really know this boy, but is anyone else you know gonna be there?” asked Faith once they were down the road.

Amber shrugged. “I’m not sure. Some girls in my English class mentioned it. And Lisa Durham said she’ll probably go.”

Faith scoffed. “That’s not what I mean, Amber. Who cares about them? I mean cute boys.”

Amber made a face, rolling her eyes. “Is that all you care about?”

“When it comes to a party, yes.”

“I don’t even know if it’s that kind of party,” muttered Amber. “I mean, there will be guys there, but...I’m not sure about alcohol. We are a bunch of sophomores, you know.”

“Oh sweetie,” Faith shook her head. “Where there’s guys...there’s alcohol.”

Amber folded her arms across her chest. She hated when Faith called her sweetie. She may have only been fifteen, but she wasn’t stupid. Faith liked to take advantage of her two years a little too much, and it irked Amber to the core.

“Well, if you decide you’re bored with no Senior boys there, let me know. I’ll be by the lemonade.”

Faith side-eyed Amber, knowing a dig when she heard one.

“Is this where I turn?” she asked a mile up the road.

“Uh, yeah.”

As they turned onto the street that lead them into a subdivision, Amber gasped. The entire street was filled with cars parked along the curb. She could already hear music before they even found the house.

“Looks like a party to me!” exclaimed Faith when she found a spot to park. Then she looked at Amber with a toothy grin. “Text me if we get separated and you need me.”

“As if you’ll even reply,” Amber mumbled as she climbed out of the truck.

Harry sat cross-legged at the long table, leaning back in his chair. He watched the faces of the men across from him, knowing their reactions were bound to be less than pleased.

“She’s a country artist, Harry,” argued Tommy. “How does that fit in with you and your fans?”

Harry shrugged. “She’s good. She’s young, but she’s solid. She’s got a fantastic band.”

“There’s no doubt she’s got talent, H,” Jeffrey agreed. “But I thought we were going with someone a little more well-known.”

“I changed my mind,” Harry remarked. “I like this girl. I think she’s got something. And I’d like to be the one to help her get the exposure she deserves. Besides...I don’t think my fans are interested in just one type of music. I like to think they’re more open-minded than that.”

“Good point,” Jeff nodded. He leaned back in his chair, looking between Harry and Tommy who let out a reluctant sigh. “Alright, H. We trust your judgment. Let’s give her a shot.”

The gig in Kansas City had been a decent one. It was in a dive bar, something the band was all too familiar with, but the crowd had seemed to grow since the last one. Radio had been playing their single more, and Amber figured the festival in Nashville had helped as well. One guy in a cowboy hat had been buying Amber drinks all night, and by the end, she was feeling pretty good.

“Thank y’all,” she beamed as the audience cheered.

Taking a long swig from her water bottle, she stepped off the stage. The cowboy made a beeline towards her, stopping her before she reached the backstage door.

“One more drink, darlin’?” he offered, his eyes gazing down her body.

She smiled at him, knowing he had other things in mind than just one more drink. “I think I’ve had enough but thank you.”

“Aw, c’mon, just one. For the road.”

“You heard her, bro, she said she’d had enough.”

Amber turned to see Carter standing behind her, his eyes blazing as he glared at the cowboy.

“What the heck do you know about it, bro?” he mocked, getting into Carter’s personal space. “You her daddy?”

Carter moved slightly, barely making the cowboy flinch. Amber stopped him with her hand on his arm.

“Carter,” she muttered, shaking her head. “It’s okay.”

He stared at her blankly as she grinned back at the other guy. “Maybe one more drink would be nice.”

The cowboy smiled triumphantly as he turned for the bar and Amber followed, leaving Carter dumbfounded and cursing under his breath.

“What was that about?” asked Johnny as he stepped off the stage, his guitar slung over his shoulder.

“Did you see that shit?” Carter turned. “Fucker’s trying to get into her pants.”

“Dude…” Brendan shook his head with exasperation. “Let it go.”

Walking past the other two boys, he opened the backstage door. Dropping onto the worn-out couch, he ran his hand through his hair.

“What’s with you?” asked Carter as he followed, crossing his arms across his chest.

“Nothing, man. It’s just some guy buying her drinks. You need to get used to it.”

“Why should I?”

Brendan chuckled. “Because...she’s a good looking girl. She’s twenty-one. She’s got the voice of an angel. She’s gonna have guys coming on to her.”

Johnny stepped around Carter, leaning his guitar against the wall before sitting down next to Brendan.

“He’s right, man. Whatever you guys had...it’s over.”

“She told you?” Carter glared.

“No. She told you. I just happened to hear it.”

Carter scoffed, shaking his head in disbelief. “She told me just last night she didn’t wanna get drunk anymore, but yet here she is getting drunk with that asshole.”

“Carter, man…” Brendan added with a sigh as he rose from the sofa. “You think you’re the only asshole who’s trying to get into her pants?”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Carter shot at him. Crossing the room, he pushed the bass player in the chest, pinning him against the wall. Then with his fist in the air and quick breaths, he stared him down, ready to throw the first punch.

“Jesus, Carter, let him go, man!” shouted Johnny.

“Not until he tells me what he fucking means!”

“Carter, seriously dude, get a trip!” cried Brendan, trying his best to break free. “I’m on your side!”

“Doesn’t fucking sound like it!”

“Carter!” Johnny yelled again as he managed to grab the drummer’s fist.

“What the hell is going on?” another voice sounded. All three boys froze as their singer entered the room. “Carter!”

Carter slowly released his grip on Brendan’s shirt, stepping back. Johnny let go of his arm and cleared his throat.

“Sorry you had to see that, Amber,” he said sheepishly.

“See what exactly?” she asked with her hands on her hips.

“Nothing,” Carter shook his head. “Just...a little argument...got out of hand. It’s alright now.”

Amber eyed Brendan who was straightening his shirt. “You sure? Brendan?”

“Oh, um, yeah…” he nodded meekly, giving her a weak reassurance as he looked between her and Carter. “It’s...it’s fine.”

Dropping her shoulders, Amber rolled her eyes and turned back for the door. “We need to start loading up. That is, if you guys can handle it without clawing at each other and acting like babies.”

“Yeah, sure,” muttered Brendan, following her back out to the stage, but not before he gave Carter a serious go-to-hell look.

The band made it back to Amber’s hometown of Perry, Georgia three days later, stopping for one more gig on the way in Alabama. Amber and the boys had been a little perturbed with their road manager, Joel Burkus, before they’d left, wondering why in Sam hell they had several shows in Georgia and the Carolinas, another in Kansas City and finally in Mobile, with nothing in between. At least their last short road tour had been consistent, the stops after only a few hours of travel time.

“We’re trying to make it here, Joel,” remarked Brendan. “Not spending our lives driving here, there and yonder!”

Mr. Burkus had assured them he was trying their best to book them more gigs, but insisted that he wasn’t going to waste time with people who said they’d never heard of them. The band called bullshit, though at that point, there wasn’t much they could do about their manager, and they would just need to settle it after their shows.

It had actually been Amber who’d gotten them a spot at the Nashville festival. Though it had only been one gig, and they’d played for room and board only, she hoped she could continue to book them for more shows that would get them the same kind of exposure, and eventually say goodbye to Mr. Burkus.

“Home sweet home,” Carter announced as he pulled into the gravel driveway next to Amber’s trailer, having already dropped off Brendan and Johnny.

“Hmm,” Amber sounded, gazing out of the window. “Hardly much of a home anymore.”

“Why do you say that?”

Amber turned to look at Carter with a shrug. “I guess I just feel like...since I left, this isn’t really my home anymore. It’s my mom’s and Laci’s. I just come to visit.”

“But isn’t that what you wanted?” asked Carter. “I mean...you still want to make it, right?”

“Yes, of course. I’m not really sad. Just...nostalgic.”

“If you say so,” Carter said with a smirk.

Amber knew he wasn’t being facetious. He just didn’t get it. He grew up with money, his parents had a big house in Macon. He had his own place in another nearby town and up until the band decided to go on the road for the first time, he’d had a good job. The van was even his, though Amber had a feeling his parents had helped him out.

“Well, see ya later,” she said, reaching for the door handle.

“Amber,” Carter muttered, stopping her with his hand on her arm. “I wanted to say I’m sorry for before.”

Amber blinked. “For what exactly?”

“For being an asshole. I kept hoping you’d change your mind about us. And when you didn’t...when you let that guy buy you drinks...I guess I was jealous.”

“Is that why you looked like you were about to punch Brendan’s lights out when I walked in?”

“Yeah.”

“And why you huffed and puffed the entire time we were loading up the van?”

“Yeah.”

“And why you basically gave me the silent treatment all the next day?”

“Yes, Amber, I’m sorry, okay?”

“Carter…” she sighed, looking down at her lap. She thought for a moment, gathering her next words. Then lifting her head, she looked him in the eye. “If you want to be in a band with me...if you still want to be my drummer, I would absolutely love that. You’re amazingly talented, and I truly believe you’re a good person. But you need to let go of these feelings you have for me.”

“Amb-”

“No,” she shook her head, holding her hand up. “Get one thing straight, Carter. What we had...or, what we used to do together...that’s over. I didn’t like the person I was then. I’m trying to get better. I’m not even close yet, I know. But I can’t ever get there if I keep turning back and going down that road.”

“But you said you didn’t wanna drink anymore, and you were drinking with…”

“Stop, Carter. This isn’t about you anymore. Yeah, I had a few drinks, but I didn’t get so wasted, I passed out. I knew my limits. Maybe I shouldn’t have let the guy buy me any drinks, but that’s not for you to decide. Do you get that? I have to make my own decisions. And my decision right now is that you’re my drummer...and my friend...but nothing else. Okay?”

With his jaw set, Carter licked his lips. “Fine.”

“Fine,” Amber nodded curtly before sliding out of the van. Carter jumped out as well, rounding the bumper to open the back. He grabbed Amber’s guitar while she slung her bag over her shoulder.

“I’ll call you if something comes up,” she said.

“Sure.”

As soon as he slammed the door shut, Carter returned behind the wheel and peeled out of the driveway, his tires spinning and leaving dust behind. With a sigh, Amber turned and climbed the steps to her mother’s trailer, knocking on the screen door.

“You silly goose, why’d you knock?” called Pauline as soon as she opened the door. When Amber set down her things inside, mother pulled her daughter into a tight embrace, rocking her side to side. “Oh, I missed you.”

“I wasn’t gone that long,” Amber remarked with a grin.

“Longer than last time, and not as long as the next, so let me get used to saying it.”

The sound of little feet made Amber turn around, and with her arms open wide, she lifted Laci onto her hip.

“What have you been doing, little ballerina?” she asked her, her eyes already welling up with tears.

“Playing!”

“Playing what?”

“Pony and princess!”

“Of course you were,” Amber beamed before placing a tiny kiss on Laci’s tiny nose.

“Her teacher says she’s gotten really good at her A-B-C’s,” conveyed Pauline.

“Really? Let’s hear it! Will you sing with me?”

Laci began her alphabet song, both Amber and Pauline helping when needed. When they reached the end, “next time won’t you sing with me”, Amber twirled Laci around, dropping her onto her back on the sofa and tickling her sides.

“I hear Faith’s coming to town this weekend,” said Pauline when the girls had taken a breath.

“Really? I tried texting her the other day, but she didn’t reply.”

“Maybe she’s busy. She’s gotten a new job in Savannah.”

“Oh, she’s not at the salon anymore?” asked Amber, recalling Faith’s long-time job since she moved away two years ago.

“No she’s still at a salon, just a different one. Margaret said she likes it much better. It’s downtown.”

“Good for her,” Amber remarked.

Just then, her phone vibrated in her pocket. Pulling it out, Amber noticed an unknown number on the screen, one that had phoned a few times in the last couple days. Curious, and ready to give whomever was on the other line a piece of her mind, she decided to answer this time.

“Hello?”

“Hello, is this Amber Crosby?” the voice asked. A male voice.

“Maybe. Who’s asking?”

“Hi, Ms. Crosby. This is Jeffrey Azoff from Full Stop Management. How are you today?”

“Um...I’m fine,” she answered hesitantly. Giving Pauline a gesture, she took the phone to her bedroom down the hall. “How are you?”

“I’m great. But I must say, you’re a difficult woman to get a hold of.” Jeffrey let out a low chuckle, though Amber noted a slight tone of annoyance. Though the name sounded familiar, she couldn’t quite pinpoint where she’d heard it before.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Azoff,” she said. “I’ve been...out of town and I don’t always answer my phone...especially to a number I don’t recognize.”

“I understand. I also tried contacting your manager...a Mr. Joel Burkus?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Unfortunately he’s not answering any of my calls. But because this is your private number, I felt it best not to discuss business with your voicemail.”

“Excuse me, Mr. Azoff?” Amber questioned.

“Jeff, please.”

“Jeff. What exactly is this regarding?”

“Oh, pardon me. I suppose I should get to the point. I represent Harry Styles. I understand you and your band performed at the Nashville Summertime Festival?”

Jeffrey Azoff. Of course, Amber thought. He was Harry’s manager.

“Yes, sir.”

“Well, Harry told me he liked what he heard from you,” said Jeff. “We sat together and he played me some of your music, and I can see why he said that.”

“Oh,” Amber sounded, already feeling her cheeks getting warm. “Thank you. I’m flattered.”

“I know it’s a bit unorthodox, and a little last minute, but Harry has made it his mission to get you to be his opening act for the American leg of his tour.”

“Are you serious?” Amber blurted, unable to control the word vomit.

Jeffrey chuckled. “Dead serious, Ms. Crosby. In fact, Harry would like to speak with you about it on the phone as well. That is, after you’ve accepted, of course.”

“Oh my God!”

“I will give you some time to think about it,” offered Jeffrey. “And discuss it with your band. But Harry wishes to talk to you personally before the end of the weekend.”

“Okay,” Amber managed to breathe.

“Would you mind if I pass your number on to him?”

“Oh! Oh, of course, yes, that’s fine. I’d love to talk to him, too.”

“Good,” Jeff said with a smile in his voice. “I really hope we can work something out between us. Which reminds me. Ms. Crosby, how satisfied are you with your current management?”

Amber sat down on her bed for the first time since entering her room.

“To tell you the truth, Mr….um Jeff, things are...rocky to put it mildly.”

“I see. Well, after you speak with Harry, I’d be happy to have another chat with you. How does that sound?”

“Yes, sir, that sounds great.”

“Please, Amber, call me Jeff,” he insisted.

“Amber!” Pauline called from the living room. “We have company!”

Amber laid her guitar she’d been playing on the bed and combed her fingers through her hair. “Company” usually meant family or one of Pauline’s friends. The only other people who ever came by were her bandmates, and she’d just met with them the day before at Johnny’s apartment. She’d told them about her phone conversation with Jeffrey Azoff, and though they were a bit apprehensive about performing in front of a large crowd of mostly young women who were only there for a certain ex-boybander, they were ecstatic to have a legitimate gig, a touring gig. She had yet to hear from Harry himself, but Jeff had said he’d call before Sunday night, and it was only Saturday.

Making her way down the hall, she heard an all-too familiar voice, and as she rounded the corner she caught sight of the dark hair.

“Faith!”

Setting down Laci whom she’d been holding, her cousin stepped forward and gave her a hug.

“Oh, sweetie, I’ve missed you,” she declared in her ear.

“Me too,” said Amber, letting the sweetie remark slide this once. “How’s Savannah?”

“Ah-ma-zing!” exclaimed Faith. “You should totally move there, Ambs.”

“Um...can’t,” she shoved her hands in her pockets. “I sort of live on the road now?”

“Oh right. The music thing. How’s that going?” Faith sat down on the couch next to Pauline, pushing her long hair off her shoulders.

“Pretty good, actually?” she wasn’t sure why all her points were coming out as questions, but she’d forgotten how obtuse Faith could be. “I have a song on the radio. It just made the top twenty.”

“No shit? How about that. Sorry, I hardly ever listen to the radio anymore.”

Unable to hide her disgust, Amber crossed her arms and turned for the kitchen, rolling her eyes.

“Aren’t you going to tell her?” asked Pauline.

“Tell me what?” urged Faith.

Amber grabbed a banana from the counter and eyed her mother with a piercing glare. But she seemed oblivious.

“She might be going on tour with Harry Styles!” cheered Pauline.

“Mom!”

“What?”

“Oh my God, are you serious?” Faith gasped.

“It’s not set in stone yet,” explained Amber. “But I’ve been talking to him and his manager.” She figured Faith didn’t need to know all the details.

“But I thought you sang country music. He was in a pop band.”

“Apparently he likes my style,” Amber couldn’t help but jab with a wink before she took a bite from her banana.

“Well shit!” said Faith, throwing her hands up. “Who knew?”

She’d missed his call. She wanted to kick herself. It was another unknown number displayed on her phone, but Amber knew it was him.

Not wanting to spend the rest of the evening making herself sick over it, she tried her best to focus on her music, on a new song she’d been writing. After an hour or so, it wasn’t working, so she put down her guitar and went into Laci’s room. She sat on the floor coloring in a book.

“That’s so pretty!” she exclaimed, pointing at the picture.

“Butterfly!” declared Laci.

“Yes, it’s a beautiful butterfly.”

Laci rose from the floor and began flapping her arms, pretending to fly. Once she decided she was tuckered out, she plopped herself back down next to Amber. Then she handed her a crayon.

“You color, too!”

“Okay, don’t mind if I do. What should I color, Lace?”

Laci hummed to herself for a moment, turning pages in her book. Settling on two pictures side by side that hadn’t been colored yet, she looked up at Amber.

“I color the bird, you color the bear.”

“Hmm, but bears are brown or black,” said Amber. “You gave me an orange crayon.”

Laci shrugged. “Him a orange bear.”

Giggling, Amber nodded and got to work. “Alright then. Orange bear it is.”

Halfway through coloring Mr. Orange Bear, Amber’s phone rang. Nearly jumping, she looked at her phone to see the unknown caller again.

“Lace, I have to take this call, but I’ll be right back, okay?”

“‘kay.”

Slipping out of Laci’s room, Amber quickly swiped the screen so the call wouldn’t go to voicemail.

“Hello?” she greeted just as she made it to her bedroom and shut the door.

“Hello, Amber,” said the deep voice with a British accent. “This is Harry Styles.”

tagging: @freedomfireflies

If you'd like to be tagged, please let me know :)

[brokenmelodies07]

Sundays With A Twist

Summary - Mark Lee is just another college student who wishes that his Sunday goes according to plan, but what happens when he disappears in a cloud of blood red smoke?

Genre - Mythology

Warning - None, except bad jokes

Normal Sundays do not end up with you being in the midst of demons and wild creatures, but hey you're Mark Lee, normal is just not your cup of tea. 

Sundays were Mark's favorite. Sundays were everything he was not - calm, collected, peaceful, stress-free. As usual he woke up at 4am, did his morning routine, almost slipped on  Haechan's discarded clothes and left home to be done with his new song before the weekend gets over.

Humming his new song, Mark strolled the streets, on his way to the studio. He expected to do a lot of things today:

1. Finish the new song

2. Buy a new notebook (after Haechan spilt coffee on the last one)

3. Pick up his guitar from the shop (which Haechan should have payed for)

4. Submit his assignments

5. Actually get eight hours of sleep (probably not possible because someone keeps shouting and smashing keyboards at 3 in the morning!!!!!)

Wow, Haechan was a menace, but unfortunately there’s nobody else other than his childhood best friend to split the bills with. If there was something not included in his schedule, it was to be whisked away in smoke by a couple of teenagers. 

In the middle of the streets of New York, Mark started turning into smoke. Not just regular, white, dustless smoke, but a blood red one.

He shouted, cried and screamed for help, but the pedestrians just walked through him, like he wasn't there. 

Mark evaporated into the air and traveled as nothing more than just atoms and molecules into the depths of the earth. It was all too much for him. Like seriously? Does sleep deprivation really make you hallucinate this much? No, right? But, who knows? Maybe he should Google it.

After about what felt like a milli-second, Mark became human again, in the middle of a red, endless dessert.

Looking around, Mark slapped his face once, twice, thrice. Yet, he didn't wake up. 

"Dude, why am I not waking up?" Mark questioned, slapping his face a couple more times.

"That's gonna bruise after some time," said a voice he didn't recognise.

Mark looked around, searching for the owner of that meek voice.

"You'll need to apply some ointment on that," said a short boy with impish features who emerged from the shadows. 

"Hi, I'm Renjun, sorry for summoning you"

"Yeah, sorry for summoning you, we didn't know what else to do" said a taller boy with flaming orange hair and a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"I'm sorry, what the heck?"Mark questioned

"Where am I? Why am I here? Who are you? What do you mean summoned? And what is that foul smell?"

"Could you go slower, we're not fluent in human language, yet" said a tall, muscular guy with spotless white hair.

"Yeah, what he said" voiced two new boys, one who was tall, lean and had pink hair and a boyish charm and the other, who was shyer, taller and looked like he hadn't eaten for days.

"Excuse me, can you wake me up? I've got a lot to do and I'm not wasting my time hallucinating. Hellooo, God?" Mark called out, looking up, thinking that God was up there somewhere saying "This is what you get when you don't sleep"

"Is this a good time to tell you that God kind of went on vacation, he won't be back till the spring fest."

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA,VERY FUNNY!!" Mark laughed, "Now , if we could speed it up a bit, I would like to wake back up"

"I don't think he understands us,"said the shy one. 

"You’re Mark, right?" asked the orange haired boy

"If you're going with my English name, then yeah..."

“Great, you just need to help us with this programming and then you'll be sent back“

"You're kidding, right? 'Cause computers and I don't go anywhere near each other, I don't even know how to shop online, bro!" Mark exclaimed.

"You are Mark from facebook, right"

"Excuse me? No, how would I be Mark Zuckerberg? I'm not even American, dude!"

"Huh?" they all collectively said together.

"Just a minute please" they said and disappeared into thin air.

What was with the obsession with disappearing into the air lately?

"Sooooo" they said, reappearing.

"So?" started Mark.

"We may or may not have accidentally mistaken you for someone else and we can't send you back."

"Sorry for the trouble, but hey we can be friends,"  said the shortest one.

"Yeah, I'm Chenle, son of Hermes," introduced the boy with green hair.

"Hi! Jaemin, son of Aphrodite. Welcome to the club, dude!" Said the pink-haired boy excitedly.

"Nice to meet you, I’m Jisung, son of Hermes,"  the shy one mumbled.

"I'm Renjun, son of Athena, Goddess of wisdom and warfare, and that's Jeno, son of Ares, God of War,"  said the shortest one.

"Well, I'm Mark Lee, a college student who survives on a lot of caffeine and watermelons. Nice to formally meet you, I guess?" Questioned Mark with raised eyebrows.

"So, is there any way you can teach us about programming?" asked Jeno, who Mark assumed must be their brawns.

"Yeah, if you have fulfilled the purpose we called you here for, then you're free to go, that's how the magic works" explained Renjun, who obviously was the brains.

"Well, I might know someone who's currently studying programming in college"

"Really? If he can help us out, then you both would probably be free to go"

"Let's summon him now, what's his name?"

"Lee Haechan," smirked Mark, knowing that this would be enough for all the times Haechan stabbed him in the back and annoyed the living daylights out of him.

[girlfriendsofthegalaxy]

tuesday again 3/7/2023

soooooo there's another classic Dad Movie character ive adopted bc ive decided he's bisexual

listening

Black Hole Baby by Superorganism. i would put a marker down and say this is the sound of the summer but this came out last summer :/ the very flat (slightly chiptune?) delivery of the lyrics combined with the hyper bouncy...squelchy??? lasers? is extremely fun. this song is neither creepy nor wet but it is viscous bc u are on a spaceship partying as a black hole is Getting You

listen. anything that starts off with subway chimes and the following lyrics is going to be good. these are good song choices in my mind.

I've been eating fruit I've been sleeping well when I can

the bridge in the middle with bits and pieces of radio hosts shouting them out-- i could take it or leave it. i do like how this band namedrops themselves constantly. it's like an oil painting at an estate sale with a huge legible signature at the bottom.

-

reading

i have read about three-quarters of raymond chandler's oeuvre (hardboiled detective/film noir author and screenwriter of note) this week. i cannot in good faith recommend these books because they contain some of the worst excesses of their time, which is good bc this is not a review series.

sometimes, i'm watching or reading something and i decide it would be a good tuesdaypost candidate. i hate the term consume but it's the quickest descriptor here, so bear with me. if i am consuming a work based on the recommendation of a friend, it changes how i consume the work-- i'm on the lookout for the elements they used in their pitch. if i'm consuming a work to write an article or paper (rare these days) i'm stopping halfway through to take notes, i'm rewinding to catch details, i'm delving into interviews, i often fully rewatch or reread. if i'm liveblogging something i am mostly on the lookout for humorous and/or gay bits. if in the middle of something i catch myself thinking "ooh this would be good to talk about for the tuesdaypost" that introduces another like, film or lit crit level to the rest of my time with the work. it's very difficult to turn that part of my brain off.

when i am reading things just for me, none of that is there. i am fully immersed, my disbelief is suspended. i am not thinking about anything else but the story that is being told to me. ive spent a great deal of time with these books this week and it feels weird not to talk about them, but they are something i really enjoyed that was just for me.

i honestly don't know how to unpack my enjoyment of works that (at times) reflect the quite extreme racism of their author-- the one that grabbed me the most, Farewell My Lovely, contained some of the most callous and exceptionally cruel shit i've ever read. it also contained some of the most fascinatingly complex inner workings of an extremely closeted bisexual guy with ptsd i've ever read. i don't know how to talk about these books in an interesting or balanced way.

even if i did know how to unpack these things, the brief and light weekly roundup post on goddamn tumblr dot com (home to no nuance whatsoever) would not be the venue. this is an anti-review, in a way.

-

watching

a fuck of a lot actually bc i'm really trying to crank out this baby blanket and podcasts aren't really doing it. same username on letterboxd if u want to see early drafts of this tuesdaypost section.

i watched many films that came on two vhs tapes when i was little, bc charlton heston was one of my mom's favorite actors. i did not see spartacus when i was little but i did see the entirety of ben hur AND the ten commandments before i was eight. i can't make that make sense either.

anyway i have a soft spot for epics but only when i am actively doing things with my hands. this one has a more interesting making-of story than the actual movie, imo. this one also had oddly christian overtones, for being set in a time where christ and christianity did not yet exist. like many critics of the time, i have no strong feelings about mr douglas' acting. i really, really liked the soundtrack-- a delight to hear the love theme in context after hearing it in a thousand different soundtrack theme compilations!

-

playing

nothing that wasn't a phone game i've already talked about

-

making

five and a half repeats!!! i am aiming for ten repeats plus some sort of i-cord border so this is roughly halfwayish

i took this in broad daylight after a meeting like "if i knit more tonight i'll take another photo" and then i didn't knit any more tonight i read a bad western and halfheartedly liveblogged it

[starcchild]

5 Songs that Remind You of Your Muse

Tagged by: @thiscrimsonsoul Tagging: anyone!!

main verse

1) Bird Set Free - Keala Settle

And I don't care if I sing off key / I found myself in my melodies / I sing for love, I sing for me / I shout it out like a bird set free / No I don't care if I sing off key / I found myself in my melodies / I sing for love, I sing for me / I'll shout it out like a bird set free

2) You're On Your Own, Kid by Taylor Swift

From sprinkler splashes to fireplace ashes / I called a taxi to take me there / I search the party of better bodies / Just to learn that my dreams aren't rare / You're on your own, kid / You always have been

3) Colour My Heart by Charlotte OC

Don't colour my heart blues and greys / Don't tell me that I'm not ok / Don't colour me with all your shades / Don't colour my heart cause I'll make it through / Yeah, I'll make it through / No more tears for you / Don't colour my heart

4) King of Anything by Sara Bareilles

All my life I've tried (Tried) / To make everybody happy while I / Just hurt (Hurt) and hide / Waiting for someone to tell me it's my turn to decide

5) World's Smallest Violin by AJR

My grandpa fought in World War II / He was such a noble dude / I can't even finish school / Missed my mom and left too soon / His dad was a fireman / Who fought fires so violent / I think I bored my therapist / While playing him my violin

ikau

1) Eight by Sleeping At Last

I remember the minute / It was like a switch was flipped / I was just a kid who grew up strong enough to pick this armor up / And suddenly it fit / God, that was so long ago, long ago, long ago / I was little, I was weak and perfectly naive / And I grew up too quick

2) Anti-Hero by Taylor Swift

It's me, hi / I'm the problem, it's me / At teatime, everybody agrees / I'll stare directly at the sun, but never in the mirror / It must be exhausting always rooting for the anti-hero

3) It's Alright by Mother Mother

Oh hey, I had a night I had a day / I did one million stupid things / I said one billion foolish things / I'm not okay, I got a baseball bat beside my bed / To fight off what's inside my head / To fight off what's behind my meds / I'm lonely; lost in pain / It's alright, it's okay, it's alright, it's okay / You're not a monster, just a human / And you made a few mistakes / It's alright, it's okay, it's alright, it's okay / You're not gruesome, just human / And you made a few mistakes / It's alright, oh, it's okay, oh

4) Oh No! by MARINA

I know exactly what I want and who I want to be / I know exactly why I walk and talk like a machine / I'm now becoming my own self-fulfilled prophecy / Oh! Oh, no! Oh, no! Oh, no, oh! / One track mind, one track heart / If I fail, I'll fall apart / Maybe it is all a test / 'Cause I feel like I'm the worst / So I always act like I'm the best

5) Family Line by Conan Gray

Oh-oh / All that I did to try to undo it / All of my pain and all your excuses / I was a kid, but I wasn't clueless / (Someone who loves you wouldn't do this) / All of my past, I tried to erase it / But now I see, would I even change it? / Might share a face and share a last name but / (We are not the same, same) / Scattered 'cross my family line / I'm so good at telling lies / That came from my mother's side / Told a million to survive / Scattered 'cross my family line / God, I have my father's eyes / But my sister's when I cry / I can run, but I can't hide / From my family line

[yourlips-my-lips-apocalypse]

After the dawn came the yellow of day

At night we were bluer than the color itself

Now everything is monochrome, people are electric

Since you left, I've been without electricity

It's true, in the end only scars will remain

The pains become small and large with the seasons

At some point I too will climb onto her stretcher

You are and will remain my big question mark

When you shouted at me to piss off

When I shouted at you, so anti "what's up?" When you threw the phone, then the phone

Shattered in slow motion on my temple

When blood flowed from the cut on my forehead onto the parquet

I left, then shot myself away in the evening

We made love in the ruins of the laptop

From the argument, after this, screaming is followed by love

Crying is followed by a feeling that is sad and addictive at the same time

The smell of you was my home

Your true lies, your different view

Your perspective, sharp blue that flashes at me

Your birthmark on the left shoulder blade

What you said to me, what I endured

What I said to you, what you forgave

The sleeping world of the night was our playground

When the evening light is exactly this color

Then there is a hole in the air where you stood

Can you hear me, where you are? Stay right there, I'll be coming soon, so wait for me

When the evening light is exactly this color

Then there's a hole in the air where you stood

Can you hear me where you are? Stay right there, I'll be right there soon, so wait for me

In the cocoon on the nighttime motorway

At two hundred, we're all alone, we're quite sure

The stripes of lights are our only witnesses

Both think: "The whole world can go to hell"

Shared loneliness

Two egomaniacs, two people who don't sleep much, a melodrama

You have a weakness

Your little helper who helped you and helped you until you were no longer yourself

When we met, you were four years older

When we split up, eight and the city a few degrees colder

Too much to drink, too much to somehow work out

Fodder for the ego, anabolic for your psychological quirks

You slipped away from me, the curse of the black AmEx

Death by installments, bought with your father's money

I wanted to hold you, but I was too young, I was too stupid, I was too proud

In their own way, we were both fed up

When the evening light in exactly this color

Then there's a hole in the air where you were standing

Can you hear me, where you are?

Stay right there, I'll be coming soon, so wait for me

When the evening light is exactly this color

Then there's a hole in the air where you were standing

Can you hear me, where you are?

Stay right there, I'll be coming soon, so wait for me

When my cell phone rang with your number

I didn't answer at first, but then the third time

I did, cursing, when someone answered

He asked "Who are you?" Someone you know? He said my number was the last one

The one you dialed before the accident

When your father, who I never met, said

Your car, bridge, rolled over several times

Fractions of a second, no skid marks to be found

Suicide, May 10th, funeral in Munich

Then click, silence, ringing ears

That's how I froze to death in the inner north

How I screamed at myself, how everything contracts

How everyone has looked at me accusingly since then

I've written this song here x-times already

Rejected x-times, never the right words

This time too, everything isn't perfect enough

I'm driving through Shibuya in Tokyo on the last train

In the flickering neon light, I see you in the window

I'd like to be where my girl is

My ice-cold angel

How often I've tried to push you away at all costs

Your classic Tiffany silver necklace

Even today, I sometimes see your silhouette in crowds

It's a deep Cut where you were

But there is something there, there is no nothing where you were

There is light where you were, a shimmer, a very small one

I can see it, no one else can see it

If you're at the big party, reserve us the best seat

Then we'll talk about your last sentence

If you're up there, wait for me in the light

If you're down there, wear your dress with a slit

The checks that my mouth wrote weren't covered

I've been looking, but there's no one to replace you

And yes, it's true, neither of us were perfect

Too many arguments, too much drama, too much sex

You were my new continent, I discovered you

If I meet you again, then I won't leave

Then I'll never leave

Then I'll never leave

Then I'll never leave

Never leave

[dasilvaaaaa]

The familiar air of the crowded pub was alive with chatter and music, a nightly distraction for all those living and working in district twelve. Empty stomachs filled with their very own brand of white liquor - moonshine, brewed under the table at the Hob. Smiles were painted across just about every individual, dancing their sorrows and worries away. Lucy Gray Baird had never thought about just how much she had missed that sound of boots tapping across the old hardwood floors in a united rhythm until she had returned from the arena.

Having been reaped for the Hunger Games and forced into that deadly amphitheater had already been a tough pill to swallow, but adjusting to the fact that she returned as a victor was another; One she hadn't quite dared to anticipate with full confidence. One in twenty-four, those weren't exactly the best of odds. She wasn't proud of what she did to return to her homely district once more. Alas, she escaped her grave-dressing, partly fuelled by optimism and the natural urge to survive, though also, and perhaps mainly, fuelled with the help of her mentor: Coriolanus Snow.

The man who had captured her spirits and given her hope, the man she came to trust so fiercely. Lucy Gray feared the consequences their cheating tactics would have if caught, knowing that despite winning, they could very well be dead victors walking. Last she had heard, a decision was made to send Coriolanus to district eight to serve time as a peacekeeper. This was a partial relief, knowing that they had not taken his life through the means of direct brute force. However, she recognised that this was taking him away from all he knew, a punishment of its own. Though her thoughts were often plagued by the memories of the arena, she could sleep a little easier knowing the man who had helped her - ensured her survival - was alive. Even if there was a very little chance of seeing him ever again, at least she could fall asleep with thoughts of him doing just fine. Though she wished they just could have had more time.

The applause following the end of yet another song was Lucy Gray's cue to make her way to the stage as the former performer introduced her. Music was, simultaneously, her source and her outlet. A preferred mode of expression and way to navigate the seemingly unnavigable. The warm light shining on her as she reached the platform was inviting, washing away what pain she carried with her. "Hello, district twelve! I can't begin to explain how good it feels to be back, as unexpected as it maybe is. I hope y'all didn't miss my songs too much- but I'll make it up to you." Smiling brightly, the brunette's fingertips started plucking at the strings of her guitar.

Her Appalachian accent rung clear and strong as she sang, figure swaying with the music. She gazed over the crowd, boots tapping along with the people. However, her heart just about jumped out of her chest and her voice faltered as she spotted a familiar set of blue eyes adorned on a familiar face. One she hadn't dared to hope to see again, though she had wished it with every fibre of her being, whether she liked to admit it or not. It was Coriolanus, as unbelievable as it was. Though she could recognise him from across the room, (hell, even if she was miles away she could probably still spot him) it was evident that peacekeeper life had started to change him- even if it was just physically with a shortened hair-cut. She had to talk to him.

The crowd noticed her singing missing, and Lucy Gray picked her voice up again from where she'd dropped it, her grin even more illuminating than before. Just in that moment of peace, Billy Taupe, her ex-boyfriend, staggered his way towards the stage. His words were slurred and mostly unintelligible with all the positive chaos surrounding them. This didn't stop him from shouting louder until she heard him though. "You missed me, Lucy Gray? I know you did!" His hands reached to grab at her skirt, and she faltered in her steps, moving backwards.

Crossroads. Even though all roads led to district twelve for Coriolanus Snow, the blonde felt completely torn on what path his future should take next. He was at a crossroads. He had managed to help his tribute win the tenth annual Hunger Games, even got the Capital to sponsor and send gifts; place bets. It was the most interactive the Games had ever been. Dare he say, the best Games ever watched. It definitely had a swell increase in views all around Panem. Not even ones that hated Coriolanus could deny such an incredible feat.

As he stood in front of the pub in twelve his mind raced. His heart felt cold, body in total awareness at all times and thoughts jumbling into the next before finally finally he walked inside. His best friend, Sejanus, walked beside him. For a moment he wanted to walk a bit faster as though he were showing his pride off… that even though he had been thrown into the peacekeepers he was still going to respected as he expected. However seeing Lucy Gray on stage had stopped him cold in those thoughts. His Lucy Gray.

“Lucy Gray…” Coryo whispered with a small smile. He watched as she sang with the same passion she did at her reaping. Lucy Gray was smiling brightly as she did so, dress skirt swaying cheerfully to match her personality. Beside him, Sejanus spoke up. “She’s the reason you wanted to come to twelve isn’t she?”

A head tilt. “Yes” Coryo said simply. Nothing else was said between the two. The conversation finished as soon as it started. As far as Coriolanus was concerned nobody needed to know the true depths that Lucy Gray managed to fill in the short time they were last together. It brought about feelings that he did not understand. Emotions he did not have a name for nor did he want to understand them either. Why should he? From a young age where he did not have anything or anyone besides his cousin Tigris, he built a certain number of walls to protect himself. Were those walls tumbling down? He hoped not. But then a silver lining of light seemed to break through cracks. Without his knowledge.

@dasilvaaaaa

[eliasiis]

don't go

word count : 1k

for @italeean

first of all. i need everyone to understand what a BITCH this was to post. like..... i posted it last night and then it just. poof. disappeared for everyone but me. i tried copying the link and it tumblr said it didn't exist. so here it is again! except posted off my laptop this time.

"Noooo!! Big brother, don't go!!" Teucer clings to Childe's leg.

"I'm sorry, Teucer, but I have to get back to work," Childe ruffles his little brother's hair. Watching those big eyes squeeze shut, overflowing with tears- He can't resist it. It's the only thing that can really tug at his heart anymore.

He pats Teucer's head and goes down on his knee to be eye-to-eye with him. "You can be a big boy and wait for me to come back, right? I promise I'll be back soon."

It's late at night. The others had known he was leaving today, of course, it wasn't a secret. But when everyone else had fallen asleep, Teucer had stayed up. He wanted to make sure that he could make every minute with his big brother home count.

But even so, Childe still finds himself near the door with Teucer crying into his chest.

"...Okay, how about this," He starts, wearing a big, playful grin. "We'll play a round of hide and seek before I go, okay? Now remember, when we're done, I have to go back to my toy-shop, alright?" He brings his hands up to Teucer's cheeks and wipes away his tears.

Still sniffling, Teucer nods. "O-Okay... But I want to hide!" He declares, and Childe chuckles.

"Sure. You have ten seconds! Go, go!" Childe puts his hands over his eyes, and despite his little brother's sadness he still hears Teucer giggling while the little tip-tap of his footsteps get further.

"Ten, nine," He already hears Teucer giggling, over in the next room. He never really was that great of a hider, but Childe wouldn't tell him that. In fact, the only thing Childe would tell him is how great he is at it. "Eight, seven, six," The giggling only gets louder. Childe smiles to himself and thinks about how little he actually wants to leave. "Five, four, three, two," Archons, how he'd love to stay here. "One! I'm coming, Teucer!"

He hears the gleeful, loud giggling and wanders into an entirely different room. "Teucer... Where are you?" He wanders around, loudly exclaiming how hard it is to find him. "Augh! Teucer, you're too good at this!"

Grinning, Childe enters the room that he knows Teucer is in. It's the room Childe had been sleeping in for the duration of his stay. Or, in more simple words- His room. He misses staying here for more than a few days at a time. "Teucer... Are you... In here?!" He dramatically throws open the closet to find it empty. Teucer's giggling gets more muffled, as if he's put his hand over his mouth.

"Aw, what? Where could he be?" He puts a finger to his chin, tapping it 'impatiently.'

"Hmmm... Could he be under the bed..?" Childe wonders, slowly making his way to his oversized bed.

"No!!! No, I'm not there!" Teucer shouts, giggling wildly still. However, Childe continues making his way towards it.

"No, no! I think Teucer might be under the bed! What do you think, strange voice?" He asks, lowering himself to his knees as slowly as possible. He feels little hands start batting at his knees as soon as he gets on the floor, and he chuckles.

"No!!" Teucer scrambles out the other side, bee-lining his way to the door. Childe gives him a bit of a head start before he starts barely speed-walking his way after him.

"Teucer! You can run, but you can't hide~!!" Childe sing-songs, but he doesn't even try catching up to his speedy brother.

After barely a minute, Teucer almost trips- But Childe catches him. He wouldn't forgive himself if he allowed that to happen.

"I've gotcha now, Teucer," Childe grins, cradling him in one arm and threateningly wiggling his fingers above Teucer with the other.

"Noooo!! Don't tickle, don't tickle!!" Teucer squirms and flails, but otherwise makes no attempt to get away. They'd been playing this game since Teucer was old enough to walk. Childe isn't above admitting how much he'd missed it.

"Don't what? I'm sorry Teucer, I couldn't hear that last part," Childe says, threatening fingers still static still in the air, making a scribbling motion while Teucer's childish giggles fill the air.

"Tickle me!!" Teucer says, but then slaps his hands over his mouth, still flailing. He never fails to fall for that.

"Oh? If you say so!"

Childe digs his fingers into Teucer's stomach, laughing along when Teucer gives a delighted shriek. His childish laughter mixes with squeals while he squirms and kicks and flails his arms around. "aaAHH!! Eek!! Brohohotherr!! Noohoho!!"

Childe pokes gently into Teucer's sides, smiling fondly- They used to do this much more often. Maybe he'll have to make it a habit again. "Teucer, you gotta make me a promise, okay?" He says, louder over Teucer's thrilled laughter. "You'll take care of our siblings for me, right?"

Still squirming and squealing, Teucer nods rapidly. "Okayokayokay!! No more, nohoho moree!" Teucer curls up, kicking his legs about and smacking at Childe's tickling hands.

"Okay, okay! Just one more thing..." Childe gently places Teucer back on the ground and takes Teucer's hands and moves them out of his way. He takes both hands and scribbles as quickly as possible on both Teucer's sides, avoiding the involuntary kicking his brother immediately reacts with.

"EEK!! Brohhohohotherr!! Ah!! Bwaahahannooooo!!!!" He starts pushing Childe's hands away and that's when he knows to stop. He picks his brother back up and boops his nose. "Ready for bed?"

"Mmmhm.." Teucer says, rubbing at his eyes. He still wears a silly grin that Childe matches with his own.

"Alright. I'll tuck you in." Childe makes his way to Teucer's own bedroom, laying him down on his bed. It's late now. He has to leave quickly if he wants to-

"Brother?"

"Yeah?"

"...Come back soon, okay?"

"Of course, Teucer."

[bisayawa]

morning croon ; steven grant/gn! reader

― fluff

note: small blurb i made because music does that to the soul, i think. not proofread.

an old chorus winds through the silence of the flat & holds your hand, shaking you awake.

it's a song, the one steven set to wake him up, the one you & he shared excitement over during your first meeting, many months ago.

it's the loud bellow of engelbert humperdinck ― a strangely named man, you had said once before. he had laughed at that, squinting his eyes & you swear you saw stardust on his lashes.

you feel him smile against your neck. the sheets ruffle & curl around his legs. the far end of the room is swathed in morning light. mr. humperdinck croons on with his song, successful in shaking you both awake.

"good morning, my love," is what you say.

"good morning, dear heart," is what steven whispers into your jugular. it tickles.

you sigh. his inky, black hair is crawling up your cheek. you bring your hand up, and you play with it, twining between thumb & finger. with the slightest of force, you pull, bringing out the knots, smoothing it down.

"did i ever tell you my ―"

"― grandfather loved this music?" he murmurs into skin.

you laugh, feeling him smile again.

"oh, only when we first met, love," he says. "could you repeat it? maybe i've forgotten."

his hand follows a path against hips & dips, over slivers of skin & soft cloth.

you close your eyes. the song hasn't stopped. the verse, this time, is how the world has fallen down on him ― praying for his love to return.

"my grandfather would play this song in the afternoon... on the radio. sometimes ― my mother says ― he used to sing it during celebrations, birthdays & things."

he hums, proving that he's listening.

"he liked the big, loud songs of the time. you know," there's a yawn in the back of your throat. "engelbert, tom jones, frank sinatra, andy williams..."

he holds you closer. the blanket of sleep is coming back. the warmth of the sheets aid it in doing so.

the yawn escapes then just as steven kisses the line of your neck.

"did you have favourite?"

"hmm?"

"a favourite song? of theirs?"

"oh, i have many."

you pull back & find his face in your hands. his eyes are dark pools of honeyed brown. they always remind you of sweet sugar. sweet sugar like sweet steven. you kiss his nose.

"could you sing some for me?"

it's bright morning & you haven't had water in eight hours.

"voice is scratchy, steven. won't make for good singing."

"it's always good singing when you do it."

that brings a chuckle out of you, and you marvel at the way he squints. the stardust is back again. this time, there's a comet in his iris. your heart feels so full, like it's about to explode. it aches in the sweetest way it can.

"they shout in their songs."

"then shout away," you can hear the grin in front of you more than you see it.

"my voice is octaves higher than the songs they're singing,"

"then sing lower, if you'd like,"

you laugh once more. he's unrelenting & you oblige. it's steven, sweet & amorous in just the way he looks at you. how could you not?

"there's one where he says a waltz should last forever. do you agree?"

"'m no good at dancing."

"we dance in the kitchen all the t ―"

he takes the sentence with a peck.

"we were talking about singing, not dancing, my love."

and so you sing, all soft & short syllables. the songs on the radio always stretched out the words & the vowels, bringing itself to the height of emotion. that you could never do, giving only short punches of word in song.

steven loved it, still.

[erodasfishtacos]

Adjustments

When Y/N is getting tired of staying at home with the baby while Harry tours.

word count: 5k

contains: sexual content, language, a dash of angst

It was still early but Harry didn’t mind. When he was on tour he craved sleep like no other. To be in his bed, spooned around his love, and no alarm set.

However, the deep desire for sleep is just a faraway thought now because he’d rather be sleep deprived and wake up to his curly-haired baby any given day.

He looks to you. Mouth slightly open, face stress-free, and peaceful. Harry hated coming home from tour to see the bags of exhaustion under your eyes from taking care of the baby all by yourself.

He constantly had to swallow back guilt. He tried to do everything to make it up when he was home.

Harry didn’t find touring as exciting and fun as he use to. He sometimes counts down the tour dates until he’s home.

Sometime he can’t wait for the concert to wrap up so he can sneak in a quick FaceTime before you lot head off to bed.

Sasha was two, her birthday near days away, and Y/N had been running around like a mad-woman trying to make sure her party would be perfect.

Y\N sometimes held herself to the exceptions of other celebrities wives. Ballon arches, custom cookies, and beautiful decorations.

However, unlike other celebrities, you did this all yourself. No event planner, nobody except Anne and Gemma.

Harry wants you to sleep as much as possible and allow you the luxury he gets on tour. Sleeping in until noon sometimes in the empty, cold hotel room with nothing else to do.

He can hear Sasha babbling incessantly from her little bed. The little yellow railings preventing her from falling out or escaping.

Harry heaves himself off the bed, tugging on some sweatpants that had been thrown off hurriedly when you’d told him you’d been wet for him since he walked in the door last night.

“Hi, hi little love,” Harry murmurs as he opens the door to her bedroom. The yellow flowers hand-painted from the wall setting the theme for the room.

Sasha was a good baby and an ever better toddler. However, almost as a little teenager, she sure did have her mood swings. They weren’t quite out of the terrible twos stage yet.

She wanted her mom as she stood there.

“No, mummy,” Sasha whines, tugging on Harry’s cross necklace with force after he scooped her up.

“Hey, we don’t do that. Remember we treat people with kindness.”

After a promise of chocolate chips in her pancakes, she agrees to help Harry cook you breakfast. 

It was messy and his bare chest was covered in flour. Not quite sure how the little girl had gotten it into her curls but they were managing.

Harry loved watching Sasha play with the cooking utensil. Smacking whisk around, looking quizzically at a spatula. 

It made Harry want to buy her a little play kitchen. He was surprised they didn’t already have one. He thinks they might have on in their New York City apartment that they haven’t traveled to recently.

He makes a point while Sasha is chewing at the pancakes to search to find one. He finds a same-day pickup at a local toy store and orders it.

That’s one thing he loved about making so much money. He could spoil you and the baby, his family with everything and anything they want or need.

Y/N always struggled with accepting gifts from Harry but as they years went on and they got married and combined bank accounts. (well she brought a hefty three thousand to the marriage, he graciously gave her full-access to his money). 

A few weeks after your wedding, when you went to an ATM to get twenty pounds out for a cash-only restaurant and when the receipt said you two had six-hundred thousand and some change in just one of your CHECKING account - well you nearly almost fainted.

You had been worried about the three pound service fee before seeing that.

Harry could sometimes get ahead of himself. He’s had disposable money since he was sixteen. Y/N would sometimes hum, asking if he really needs a fifteen-thousand dollar wool Gucci coat.

Y/N would make it a point that she doesn’t want Sasha to grow to be materialistic and spoiled. So Harry was scolded every once in a while when he gave into Sasha’s puppy dog eyes.

Maybe not the best decision but he planned to set it up when you were out for lunch this afternoon with a friend. Hopefully, you wouldn’t notice? If he strategically put it in the playroom.

“Mmm, what’s all this?” You murmur, tying your silk robe at the front. Just enough cleavage showing that Harry feels a twitch in his joggers. Sue him, basically everything his wife did turned him on.

“Pancakes, mummy!” Sasha giggles, syrup coating her cheeks and fingers. “Kissy?” Her dad had taught her that.

“Yes baby,” you agree, leaning in to press a kiss to her soft curls, avoiding her sticky mess. 

“Kissy?” 

You look up to your pouting husband with identical absurdly wild curls from bed. 

“Spoiled, you lot,” you tell him before padding over to him and pressing a soft kiss to his lips.

Forever the horny teenager, his large hands finds your bum and pull you closer - deepening the kiss.

“Miss you s’much on tour, all I think about,” he whispers into your mouth. “Your tits, your cun-“

“Harry!” You laugh, smacking at his chest, “Can’t talk like that in front of the baby!”

“She didn’t hear,” he grumbles, giving your arse one last squeeze, “Tonight.”

“Tonight,” you agree back, ignoring the pinch of arousal. 

—-

Sasha was putting up a fight when she realized that you were leaving without her. Grabbing at your leg as you tugged on a Gucci sneaker.

“I’ll be back soon, Sash,” you assure her but to no avail.

Her cheeks ruddy red and splotched. Tears staining them as she wails dramatically at the top of her little lungs. 

“I don’t know if I should go,” You sigh as Harry wrestles her tiny body off of you so you don’t trip.

“No baby, you need a break. She can’t hold you hostage,” Harry laughs as Sasha wriggles a little in his arms.

“Call me if you need me to come home.”

“I’ll be fine, now go, have a mimosa for me,” Harry smiles down at his daughter who is staring at you like you’ve just killed her beloved pet.

You can’t help but giggle at the glare, “so scary, missy. I’ll see you soon, I love you.”

Sasha buries her nose into Harry’s neck. Her sobs more sad than angry at this point. Which makes your heartbreak a little.

—-

Sasha was getting impatient with her father. As he attempted to figure out how to screw on the oven door to the overcomplicated design.

She occasionally ran off with a piece he needed so it took much longer than he’d thought. But this thing was sophisticated, you pour water into a little tub and it runs through the faucet like a real sink.

Sasha gave her father a wide smile when he had finally told her it was all done. He helped fill the little shopping cart with plastic fruit and veggies.

She was babbling to herself happily, occasionally making sure her dad was still in the room with her.

Harry had grabbed his journal off the kitchen table and was scribbling down mismatched lyrics about how much love he was filled with.

His last two albums were nearly just songs about you. The next one was definitely going to include tracks about his baby.

When he hears the alarm sound and get shut off, he knows your home and he feels a little twinge of anxiety in his stomach.

Distraction? That should work right?

“Hi baby,” Harry greets, planting a kiss on your lips before squatting to untie your sneakers for you.

“Well hello there!” You look around surprised to not see your daughter toddling to you as well. “Is bug sleeping?”

Harry shakes his head and rubs the back of his neck, “Um, no. Just playing in the playroom right now.”

“Was she good?” You asks, noticing he’s changed clothes. He loved to laze around in joggers if he could. “Did you go out?”

“Just for coffee,” he covers, technically - he did grab a coffee for himself at a drive-thru. “How was lunch?”

“Good, mimosas were shit so I only had one. Missed you guys too much. So glad your home,” you sigh into his chest, basking in his tight arms around you.

“Only 73 more concerts to go,” Harry replies.

He can feel your shoulders tense at his lame attempt of a joke. It wasn’t funny to you, not in the slightest. 

“Just 73, huh?” You shoot back, untangling yourself from his grip. “Just another eight months away from your wife and baby.”

“Love...” Harry begins, swallowing hard. He was just as emotional as you when it came to it. 

You shake your head, swiping at the stray tear, “Just forget it,” you huff before trekking off to see your daughter.

Harry is cautiously trailing behind you with a bowling ball of nerves in his belly. 

When you walk into the playroom and see the new kitchen set - you stand nearly frozen in the doorway.

“Mummy! Mumma look at what daddy got me!” She chirps, standing to come to you. You easily lift her up and accept the plastic apple she hands to you proudly. 

You feel a tightness in your throat, “it’s so nice, baby.”

“Nice,” she repeats, “come play, mumma.”

“I just got home, give me a few minutes and I’ll be back in,” you promise with a kiss before placing her back down.

She seems satisfied with your answer and scurries back to where she had placed her babydoll on the countertop - feeding it.

“Can we please talk in the kitchen?” You asks, trying your best to keep your voice level in front of your daughter.

Harry dejectedly nods and follows you into the kitchen, dragging his boot-clad feet a little. 

“Look, I know your mad, lovie. But I just got the idea and didn’t think too much about it. Know y’don’t want to spoil her but-“

“Do you not listen?” You ask harshly.

He looks at you dumbfounded. Unsure of the question. It sounded like it was a trick question.

“You’re unbelievable!” You whisper-shout so Sasha doesn’t hear.

Harry feels himself getting defensive, “You’re tha’ mad about a bloody toy?  I’m her father allowed to buy her things too!”

“No, Harry. It’s not about that. It seems like your so busy with your job that you just tune me out on our calls.”

Harry’s brow furrows. That wasn’t true in the slightest. It was the highlight of his day to hear your voice and how it went at home.

“That’s bullshit and you know it!” Harry snaps, his voice a little louder. 

“Go into the storage room off the side of the garage.”

He gives you a confused look but obliges, after trailing through your maze of a house. He reaches the large extra room.

When he opens the door, his heart sinks. He immediately knows why you’re so upset with him.

A beautiful, hand-painted kitchen set is sat with a large pink bow in the room. The hutch saying in cursive, “Sasha’s Kitchen.”

It was her favorite colors - blue and yellow- with painted images of all her favorite characters like Peppa Pig and Blue from Blue’s Clues.

He remembers how excited you were on the phone that night - when you revealed her third birthday present and how perfect the artist had made it.

Harry had been listening -truthfully- but he was also nearly asleep after two encores of Kiwi onstage and a meet and greet backstage.

He felt like shit now. Disappointed in himself for ruining this surprise he knows you were looking forward to giving her in a mere few days.

But the excitement of another kitchen set surely would be lackluster now. 

“Baby, m’so sorry,” Harry says quietly, with guilt bubbling in his throat. “I was listening. I just...I forgot.”

“Nothing we can do about it now it,” you bite out. Disappointed at the ruin surprised making you prickle with anger towards your forgetful husband.

Harry begins to apologize once again but you don’t let him, “I need to put her down for a nap.”

— 

You drift off as well in your bed- taking advantage of Sasha being asleep in the next room over.

Harry doesn’t quite know how to fix this situation. He’s much too embarrassed to call his mum or sister who would just give him another earful.

He felt like being on tour has been mucking everything up. He loved his job, most days. But days like today - he wishes to never see a recording studio or microphone again.

Harry’s pondering all this when he hears a cry from the baby’s room. 

Sasha is stood, bleary-eyes with a sad frown as her father enters. 

“Sweet pea, what’s the sad face for?” He hums as he tucks her into the curve of his slim hip. Bringing her down onto the main level so you aren’t awoken.

“Daddy, kitchen?” She sniffles, pointing towards her playroom.

He shakes his head. Deciding the least he can do is bathe her so you wouldn’t need to later. She still had remnants of fruit pouch in her cheeks.

“No, darling. S’bath time. Then you can play,” he boots her nose. Snatching some clean baby clothes from where they’re folded and waited to be put away on the coffee table.

“No no no,” she whimpers angrily, shaking her head and smacking her arm against her father’s tattooed chest.

“Sasha Anne, no hitting, absolutely not,” Harry uses his firm father’s voice that he didn’t have to pull out very often.

“No bath, daddy, no!” She wails with all the dramatics of an A-List actor. 

“Hey, mumma’s sleeping. We cannot yell,” her father hushes her as he trails into the bathroom.

“Mean daddy!” She exclaims as he wrestles her into the tub. Splashing the water and wriggling away everytime he tries to cup water over her head to rid her of the shampoo.

“I know, I know, so mean,” he acknowledges sympathetically. A headache arising in the front of his skull from his baby’s high pitch noises and shouts.

After another fight into clothes, she’s still not happy when she’s sat in front of her kitchen. She throws the plastic toys around and whining anytime Harry moves an inch.

He’s feeling a little overwhelmed if he’s honest. With his worry about your precious argument and the unusual tactics of your toddler - he was stressed out. 

“Binky,” Sasha looks expectantly at her father.

Oh, good idea. She loves that.

Harry can’t find any lying around like usual so he digs through the drawers around the living room until he finds one.

After cleaning it off, he hands it to her and she pops it in her mouth happily. Her attention now direction back towards her new toy.

He let out a sigh of relief. He wasn’t quite sure how you did this alone so much of the time.

—

 When you finally wake from a fitful nap, you hear noise from the playroom. You’re still extremely frustrated with your husband but it’s less intense. Until...

Until you walk in and Sasha turns around, smiling around a binky you surely thought you’d thrown away.

Sasha was getting too old for a pacifier - even though she was just using it when she was really upset or at night.

You’d been binky-free for three weeks. And all the crying and tears from your daughter where now meaningless.

“Where did she get that pacifier?” You grit out.

You had told him multiple times you were weaning her off of it.

“She was fussy. I gave it to her, tha’ alright?” He asks cluelessly.

“Harry! I’ve told you so so many times that I’d been weaning her off of it. She just stopped crying about it a week ago!”

“I told you about this - just like the kitchen. God, you get so goddamn wrapped up in your career that you forget important things like this!”

“Baby...” Harry whimpers, hands up in surrender. “I keep, I keep messing up. I’m - I don’t know where my mind is.”

“I’ll tell you were your mind is, Harry. In the countries your traveling to, the concerts your performing at. You promised me...you fucking promised when we started trying for a baby this stuff wouldn’t happen!!”

Harry’s face crumples, “yo-you’re my everything, lovie. You and bug. None of this means anything without you. I’ll quit music, never write another lyric or sing another note if that’s what you want from me.”

He meant that fully heartedly too.

When he wrote If I Could Fly and write the lyrics, “I’ll give up everything, just ask me to.”

The fans, the producers, you - don’t truly know how much he was being truthful in the lyrics.

“I would never ask you to do that. I want you to do what you love but I want you to follow through for your family!”

At your raised tons, Sasha begins to whine, looking with wide, concerned eyes.

“Mummy?”

With that, you scoop her up. “M’going to your mums. I’ll be back later.”

Harry watches anxiously as you pack Sasha’s bag. He feels useless as he hands your her fruit pouches and crackers from the pantry.

As you snatch the car keys from the entry tables, Harry asks in a near whisper, “What’s going on? I’m so lost.”

“I’m lost too. I jus-just can’t keep doing this. It’s too hard for you to be away from us like this. I feel like a single mom sometimes.”

With that, you’re out the door and on your way to your mother-in-laws. 

For the first time ever, Harry had a fleeting thought that you’re going to divorce him. He knows it’s not just about the toy and the pacifier.

He hasn’t been home enough. As much as he tries, the FaceTimes don’t make the distance and time apart any easier. 

You have all the responsibility of this little human and your heart twinges on days you’re missing you husband and you constantly at met with his little replica.

Harry feels like he’s going to have a panic attack. He’s only had a handful in his lifetime but this one was intense.

He grabs his phone and dials the number to his best friend. He really needed a shoulder to cry on right now.

“Hey mate! What’s good, big boy?” The Irish man belts into the phone only to be met with sniffles and tears.

“Niall, I don’t know what to do.”

—

Anne was expecting you. She had set up tea with little cake in the back garden. Sasha was excited to chase the cats around the greenery. Her cute jumpsuit sodden with dirt and grass stains in no time.

“I’m sick of being at home alone all the time with Sasha. I miss Harry too much, she misses him too much,” you croak, attempting to keep your tears at bay.

“I want Harry to continue his career and live his dream. Most people never get the chance he’s gotten. I-I just need him.”

“Oh honey,” she rubs my hand soothingly, “I can only imagine. I know I missed him fiercely to the point it was unbearable when he was sixteen. I still miss him too.”

“I...I’m going to sound like such a bad mother,” you take a deep breathe, “would I be a bad mum if Sash and I joined Harry on tour?”

“Do you think that’d make you a bad mum?” Anne asks softly, a small smile on her face.

“No, I don’t think. I’d be happier because I’d be with Harry and we could actually be a married couple 24/7. She would get to see her dad everyday.”

“I think you’ve found you answer,” Anne chuckles, pouring more hot water into your cups.

“It will be so stressful.”

“More stressful than it is now?” Anne replies.

“Nothing can be more stressful than right now.”

- -

The talk witdh Niall helped only a little bit but enough to not feel like he’s going to vomit every other minute.

He was worried you were going to come in here and ask him for a divorce because he couldn’t follow through on his promises as a husband and a father.

Harry was ready to do whatever it took to prevent that from happening. He’s not above groveling and begging for you to stay.

It is dark when you pull in, toting in a sleeping child in your arms that you pass off to Harry who’s waiting at the front door.

He tucks his baby into her bed, tugging the blankets over her, and staring down at her sweet, cherub face for a little longer than usual before heading into your master.

You’re sat on the corner of the bed, biting your lip, and playing with you flashy large diamond ring as a force of habit.

“Baby...” Harry rasps, not touching you but kneeling down in front of you. 

“I can’t do what we’re doing anymore,” you begin, completely unaware that Harry thinks you’re about to ask for a divorce.

“I don’t think you’re going to agree with what I have to say, but I think it’s the best,” you swallow harshly, hoping he doesn’t shoot down the proposition.

“Please, I’ll do anything, lovie. Don’t leave me, don’t divorce me. I’ll do anything’ you want, sweetheart. Please, I need you. I’m so inlove with you.”

Harry is full on sobbing by this point, hanging his head against your knees as he attempts to catch his breath but finding it hard.

“Harry!” You murmur in confusion “baby, look at me, please?”

It takes him a moment to meet your eyes, your face is soft but wrinkled in concern. 

“What are you talking about? Divorce?” You choke out the words. Never in a million years would you willingly agree to part from your husband.

“I know I’ve been fuckin’ up. I can’t bloody figure out how to balance shit. I’ve not followed through and neglected you n’ the baby. I’m a bad husband and a bad dad.”

“Hey,” you said with force, bringing your hand under his chin so he has to keep eye contact. “Do not ever say something like that again. You are the best husband and father. You provide for us. You love us more than I’ve thought possible. You’re perfect for Sasha and I.”

“You said you couldn’t do this anymore,” Harry chokes out, letting his ringed hands rest on the tops of your thighs. His diamond wedding rand flashing in the light.

“Oh, H. I’m sorry - I didn’t mean with you.” You chuckle lightly, “how could you ever possibly think I’d leave you, pet?”

He shakes his head, “it’s because y’too good for me. Don’t deserve you.”

“Hush,” you hums, running a hand through his curls. “I know how to fix this.”

“How? I’ll do anything f’you,” Harry would agree to jump off The Empire State Building for you without a second thought.

“The baba and I are going to join you on tour. I know we agreed it’s be too much but I can’t imagine it can be any harder than this.”

Harry’s face lights up like a Christmas tree.

“That’s if you’ll have us,” you whisper coyly, excited by his reaction.

“Yeah, baby. It means I get to fuck you every night,” Harry growls pushing you back and up into the bed before crawling on top of you.

“A teenage boy, I swear,” you giggle, flushed just thinking about how much more time you’ll have together. 

“S’it so bad I want t’fuck my wife? That I’m so bloody gone for you that I’d do anything f’you?” He presses against your lips before demanding entrance.

“You can have me in your bed every night,” you agree, letting his tongue twist with yours with fever and urgency. 

“Mmm, only groupie I’ll ever need.”

“Shut up,” you laugh, allowing him to slip your shirt over your head and attach his lips to your collarbone.

“Can’t wait to fuck you in every country - like we did when you toured with me before the bab.”

When he tosses your bra across the room, you gasp at his mouth finding your nipple instantly. Nipping and suckling at the sensitive nerves with intent.

His hand doesn’t waste anytime, skillfully unbuttoning your jeans and zip with one hand before cramming his large palm inside to cup you in his hand.

“Only pussy I want, fuckin’ made for me,” he groans at the warm wetness he feel through the thin underwear. The tips of his fingers stroke over your clit with confident movements.

“Stop teasing!” You whine, wriggling out of your jeans and panties in one go. Harry is still completely dressed above you - which shouldn’t be sexy but it is.

“Don’t know how I thought you’d ever leave me. Y’fucking obsessed with my cock,” he laughs - sure of himself now.

“If you don’t touch me, I swear-“

“I’ve got you lovie, best wife ever, y’know? Just wanna please you,” he promises the damp skin on your neck, landing nips and bites that will surely leave a mark. 

“Then please me,” you demand, your tone a higher pitch than usual for your arousal.

You’re rolling your hips upwards to meet his jean-clad center. The friction feels delicious against your sensitive nerves.

Harry takes hold of your hip with one hand to halt your grinding, his other hand finding your heat and without hesitation - slides two thick fingers into you.

“H, yeah,” y/n moans, rolling her hips down to meet his hand. Her arousal coating his knuckles and he can’t describe how sexy that is.

He curls his fingers towards the top of you tight wall, finding the little spongey spot that has you bucking your hips and whimpering.

“Oh, did I find the spot, love?” Harry teases like he doesn’t know. He’s been an expert in pleasuring you for the past eight years. 

“Yes baby, m’gonna come,” you nearly slur with pleasure. The cold metal of his rings brushing against your heated folds in relief.

“Only gonna let you come - if you promise me you’ll come again f’me.”

“I will, H. I wil-“

“Ssh, s’okay. Give it to me, my love,” Harry croons sweetly, leaning to suck a nipple as he speeds up his minstrations. 

Your chest is rising and falling at a fast pace, your hips meeting his curled fingers on every thrust as he pushes you over the edge, “fu-fuck,” you moan, trying your best to keep your voice down.

“Tha’s it. M’wife looks so fuckin’ gorgeous when she’s coming on my fingers. Need you on my cock,” Harry grunts, removing his fingers and working to get his clothes off as fast as possible.

He’s positioning himself at your entrance with intent, wasting no time pushing in. No matter how many times you took him - it was always a stretch but it was immensely pleasurable.

“Love you, love our family. Can’t wait f’you two to join me on tour,” Harry pants, attempting to keep his thrust slow and meaningful but he was so turned on he was already becoming sloppy.

“S’going to be so nice. Spend everyday with my husband,” you hum, wrapping your legs around his waist and resting your feet on his bum. You can feel the muscle flexing from his thrusts.

“Yeah, never get tired of hearin’ that word.”

“Husband?” You giggle, “we’ve been married for five years.”

“Still can’t believe you agreed to,” Harry murmurs, his lips pressed against your temple as he becomes more determined. His thumb finding your clit and giving it hard, tight rubs.

Harry could have anyone he wanted. Millions of people lusted after him. It was hard to believe sometimes that he only wanted you. But in moments like this, you never questioned it.

“You’re ridiculous,” you tell him, biting his full bottom lip.

He growls, “hush up. Let me fuck you, yeah?” 

With that, the only thing that leaves your mouth is whines and gasps as he hits your spot on every fluid thrust with a determined thumb on your nerves.

“Cl-close,” Y/N shutters, legs quivering with sensitivity and arousal.

“Baby, baby wait f’me, m’close,” he begs against your skin, licking and kissing wherever he can reach. He speeds up his movements and you fell him tensing up, his mouth dripping open in an o shape and his eyes squeezing shut - his telltale sign.

You allow yourself to let go at that point and ride out the waves of intense climax with him as he weakly thrust a few more times until he lays his weight on top of you.

“The bubby is going to love South America,” Harry smiles into your mouth. His large palms massaging at your shaky, wet thighs.

“I think she’s going to love being with her daddy more,” Y/N replies, a hand coming to cup his jaw in a slow, languid twist. 

—

Thanks so much for checking it out :) PLEASE SEND ME REQUESTS!

[sailorsplatoon]

Sure thing!

Four rocked the infant back and forth in their arms, trying to lull the child to sleep. They stared up at the artificall sky of Alterna, searching for shapes in the clouds. Harmony stood nearby, riffling through a bag of supplies to try and find their baby's favorite toy. They refused fall asleep without it.

"I gotta be honest, I'm impressed," Captain said, watching the two of them taking care of their baby. "When I first found out you guys were having a kid I had thought Acht would be the only one able to handle it."

Four looked at her, confusion and pain along their face. "What? Why?" Their tone was sharp. Captain knew instantly that she should not have said that.

"It's not that we didn't think you could..." Eight stepped in, trying his best to defend her. "It's just that the two of you aren't the most responsible people in the world."

"What do you mean not responsible?" Harmony's usually sing-song voice had a venom to it.

"Well Four you did have trouble taking care of most of your pets when you were little, and Harmony's clownfish is dying of neglect." Neo did not try to phrase its words gently. Captain and Eight could feel the air grow tenser as it spoke.

"He's not neglected he's just emo," Harmony snapped. Had she ever snapped at anyone before? Apparently today was the day.

"Also, I had most of those pets when I was five or six. You really think I'm still just as irresponsible as I was when I was a six year old?" Four's words were harsh, but they did not stop their slow rocking motion. The baby had finally gone to sleep, they needded to treaure this moment of respite from their constant crying.

"No it's not like that it's just..." Captain's voice trailed off. Four was exactly right, she'd assumed they weren't any more mature than when they were a child. She hadn't realized until now how bad that sounded.

"Four, I think we should go." Harmony began to turn towards the exit.

"Agreed." As Four stood up to leave, Acht arrived in Alterna. "Come on Acht, we're going home," Four said sharply.

"But I just got here--" Upon seeing the anger on their partner's faces, Acht gave up their argument and went with them.

---------

A few weeks later, there soft was a knocking on the door to Acht, Four, and Harmony's apartment.

"Were you expecting someone?" Four asked Harmony, as they got up to answer it, laying the baby down in a crib.

"No. Who is it?"

"Oh I think I know," Acht spoke just before Four opened the door. Behind it stood Captain, Eight, and Neo. Shame hung heavily above them. "I invited them over. It's time you all settled this fight."

"Sorry, I'm busy taking care of my kid." Four went to close the door on the agents. Acht rushed over, placing their foot between the door and the frame so that they couldn't close it fully.

"You five need to work this out."

"Fine."

The six of them sat in the lving room, staring at eachother. Four and Harmony shot each of the agents angry looks.

"Alright, I'll go first," Captain said, not able to bear the silence any longer. "Agent 4, Harmony, I'm sorry that I doubted you. I see now that you are both very capable peeople and I should not have underestimated you."

"Me too. I'm sorry to you both. I didn't think clearly about the situation and jumped to conclusions." Eight spoke up next.

"Yeah, I'm sorry too. You guys are awsome and I shouldn't've doubted you for a second." Neo went last, concluding the apologies.

The same silence sat for just a moment before Four burst out with, "Thank you so much, I didn't like being mad at all of you!"

"Me neither. I accept your apology." Harmony's typical nonchalance returned to her tone.

"I'd like to point out that nobody was ever mad at me. Therefore, I win at arguments." Acht gave their tentacles a sassy flick.

"Hey, that's cheating!" Four shouted playfully.

The silence in the room had lifted, replaced by joyous laughter.

This was fun to write!!!

i can see four or harmony kinda snaping at the agents for think acht will only be the only responsible one with a kid

Yes, definitely. 

Once the two of them find out that the agents didn’t believe in their parental abilities, they both get pretty angry and are really hurt that their friends didn’t think they were capable. It sparks a nasty fight between Four, Harmony, and the rest of the agents. Eventually the other agents apologize to the two of them, but it takes a while.

[ghosttownwherenoonegoes]

1.) What do you love about Eddie?

2.) What would you like to know about Eddie?

3.) What would you like to experience with Eddie?

NONNIE I SAW THIS AND NEARLY SCREAMED OMG PLEASE YOU'VE GONE STRAIGHT TO MY HEART!!! HOW WILL I SURVIVE????😍😍😍😍😍😍I've been wanting to vent about Eddie just like this for WEEKS so thank you thank you THANK YOU for sending these questions in!!! Gonna tag @hersweetrevenge because I already promised her I'd vent about Eddie, so instead of a rambly ask, she can have this post instead.😂💀

LONG POST UNDER THE CUT. REMEMBER YOU ASKED FOR THIS.🥺

TW; I get emotional, mentions of bullying & struggling to find one's place in the world, extreme gushing! I am GOING for it!!!!

What do you love about Eddie?

So, so many things.

I love that he's the person I needed the most when I was in school; I was most definitely a lost sheepie and in many ways, I do feel like I'm still looking for Eddie. I was bullied for fifteen years - literally from the day I started pre-school right up until I graduated college - and I love that he's the person I needed back then. There's some catharsis in loving him now as I look back on my teenage self. I love the way he welcomes and accepts people, the way he meets them where they are and doesn't judge them, unless they give him a reason not to. He's kind right up until he isn't and he gives as good as he gets in all ways. I love him for knowing when to speak up and when to put down the hatches and settle in for the ride. I love him for becoming the very person he needed when he was younger; there's a quiet strength in that.

I love his clothes, his taste in music - it's very similar to mine. Ozzy was my first love, I remember throwing absolute tantrums if mum turned off one of his songs before it finished. As an adult, if Ozzy doesn't make me smile, it's a serious red flag towards the state of my mental health. I fall asleep every night listening to a Black Sabbath album (usually Master of Reality) and I will not sleep if I don't have Ozzy playing. I love that Eddie would vibe so hard with that and he and I would get to bond over Ozzy. If Eddie ever dated me, he'd have to agree to 'share' me - if he wants one more kiss, then I get one more Ozzy song before we get out of the van. Take it or leave it, Munson.😂

I love Eddie's bravery. He'll shout, swear, call it stupid, all three all at once, but he will do it anyway because it's right. He'll do it, but he's gonna let the world know he doesn't want to and I love that so much. His perseverance, his loyalty to his friends and his uncle, his ability to endure a fucking man-hunt but still being kind, still cracking jokes... his genuine want to graduate, his love of D&D, his passion and devotion, creativity, imagination, determination, compassion and emotional intelligence, his perceptiveness, his gentility, his humour, his ability to read someone with a look and know what they need from him and the way he'll give it to them if he can. His tirades and his ability to listen to an eight minute song and master playing it in just eighteen days around all the other things I just mentioned. I love his voice and the way he speaks with his hands.

I love Eddie's internal and external beauty but most of all, most of all, I love Eddie Munson because he's Eddie.

I wrote a love letter to Eddie, which you can find HERE if you want some more thoughts on this.

2.) What would you like to know about Eddie?

I wanna talk to Eddie. Just for five minutes. About anything. About D&D in general (teach me please so I can spend more time with youuuu) and his favourite thing about planning campaigns. About what he ate for breakfast this morning or if he skipped and would he like one of my snacks? About the first song he listened to this morning and the last one he remembers before he fell asleep. About how he's feeling. About why he's feeling. About his tattoo designs and which one is his favourite and why. About why he has his beautiful hair that way. About how he can be so full of love and hope and acceptance even with and after everything he's gone through. About how he's a shining beacon for so many people and how he managed to become the person for others that he himself always needed. About his favourite songs and what lyrics make his eyes close of their own accord and which guitar riffs make his heart feel like it's bleeding.

I would also like to know would I ever be good enough to be loved by him?

3.) What would you like to experience with Eddie?

Honestly, I feel like Eddie would be able to teach me how to live. I've never really 'done' all the things I'm 'supposed' to; I've never tried a cigarette, never gotten stoned (I did accidentally hotbox at a house party when I was fifteen but that's a whole other story), never really been drunk (so I've never had a hangover etc.), I've never had sex or gotten kicked out of somewhere for causing mischief, I've been in relationships but never been on a date (yeaaaah lmao I never made great relationship choices...), I've never been to a concert or seen live music up close.

I've never really felt alive or like "oh holy shit okay so this is what life is for". I just... exist, really. I'm twenty-five and I spent so long trying to figure out how to join the world as a teenager but I always felt out of place, like I never belonged anywhere or with anyone and I still feel that way now. Now I feel like I'll never be able to do it; I'll forever be watching people live from the sidelines. I'm actively pursuing a career, I have a stable job yada yada and I'm studying, too, but I just... I don't feel alive.

I don't know what my place in the world is but Eddie would help me to see I've already got it carved out. I have screams lodged in my chest, every day I have thoughts of absolutely losing my shit - doing something impulsive in a positive way, like catching a train to nowhere - and the closest I can get to that is playing music so loud I can't hear myself think, but one day it won't be enough and I'll wanna go out and do something. I feel like I could trust Eddie to give me these experiences and others. Eddie could teach me how to live, show me how to change my perspective, how to better myself. He would see in me what's already there but I'm blind to and he'd be everything I didn't know I needed (I mean... that's true).

I want to lay on my bed with Eddie while we blast Metallica or Ozzy or Black Sabbath, my hair spilling over his shoulder (which he'd brush for me later because it's almost to my tailbone and I need help with it most nights), our shoulders, elbows and knees touching, toes knocking together, staring at the ceiling, talking about everything and nothing and all the spaces in between.

I want him to teach me how to play D&D and to sit with Hellfire during campaigns; just to soak in the way Eddie is so in his element, having the time of his life. I just want to experience Eddie being Eddie. I'd love every second. Time spent with him would be yet another gift.

I want to cup his face in my hands and tell him all those things we all say every day - I love you, you were so brave, I'm so proud of you, you did everything you could, thank you for being you, and all those other things he never got to hear and absolutely should have done. I want Eddie to know he is loved for exactly who he is, how he is. I want him to be happy, healthy and safe, and I want him to know I'd throw myself into the fucking sun if it'd make him smile.

I want to experience life with Eddie but not, like, daily life... or not just daily life. I wanna throw myself in head first and experience a life with Eddie. I imagine being loved by him is an absolute gift. I want Eddie to experience these things with me - to experience being totally 100% loved for all that he is, and all that he isn't, and to know that he is loved. If he knows even in his darkest moments that I love him, that's everything.

In conclusion, I love Eddie because he's Eddie and I'd do anything for him - like, I'd subject myself to kissing Jason Carver if it meant I got to hug Eddie for five minutes afterwards. I'd do anything for him, to an extreme case. I like to think he'd appreciate some of what's in here.💖