#the gentleman is a dope

[helloparkerrose]

Jo Stafford: The Gentleman Is A Dope

Here is a lovely, brilliant performance of Jo Stafford singing The Gentleman Is A Dope during a live performance.

[travelersrest]

🪽🌺🪽

[skwilbur-thebagman]

Orange 🍊 • • • #sunday #sundayfunday #sundayvibes #swagger #gentleman #style #handsome #fashion #streetstyle #dapper #mensstyle #dope #selfie #gay #lgbt #bag #handcrafted #leather #luxury #accessories #WhoAreUCarrying #SKWiLBUR #ItsAllInTheBag (at Brooklyn, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cps-zCLPY5q/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[fallenassimar]

if they cancel A League Of Their Own.....

can we get like one newer sapphic show that can finish its story like it was envisioned by the writers pls.

[soft-persephone]

I want John Boyega to be in a Guy Ritchie movie.

[adamparrishdyke]

i feel like once mackenzi lee stops writing shitass marvel books and deletes twitter her writing will be something Fr

[mromesblog]

Can’t really tell it to em, got to sell it to em Model: @iam_calvinn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #menswear #mensfashion #fashion #style #menstyle #ootd #dapper #instafashion #gq #gentleman #streetstyle #menwithclass #mensstyle #menwithstyle #streetwear #stylish #instastyle #hypebeast #photooftheday #dope #blackbloggers #bespoke #menfashion #instadaily #instastyle #lookbook #mensfashionpost #blackswhoblog #highfashionblackmen #mensfashionreview (at Downtown Dallas, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CjPDgpQOqB-/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[kakiastro]

Who’s your Future Spouse ? Detailed 18+ reading

Hey y’all! It’s been so long since I made a intuitive post but I’m back! This reading is all about who you are going to marry or just be in a committed relationship with.

Disclaimer: please know that this is just a general reading and for entertainment purposes only. We all have free will so take what resonates and leave the rest.

Now take 3 deep breaths. Pick which animal you feel called too. If it’s more than one then that’s okay.

🦌🐅🐘

🦌

Physically: deep round light brown or hazel eyes(prominent feature) have a youthful face. Small build, lightweight muscular, light brown shaggy hair and beard. Big smile, there’s something noticeable about their hands so it can be a tattoo, a scar or birth mark. Wears casual clothes especially sweaters

Personality: chilled laid back person. They’re more on the introvert side but loves to talk once they’re comfortable with you. I feel like their low key nerdy, like for example,you wouldn’t expect them to be huge Star Wars nerds first talking them until they reveal they own collectibles😅. I wouldn’t call this person a stoner per say but they don’t mind hitting a blunt every once in a blue moon😅they also love nature and I’m seeing a hiking bag so they could have an adventure side to them as well. I feel like some of you all are interested in astrology and they’re going to love hearing you teach them about it. Im hearing they love Greek mythology. This person loves learning things as well. They’re readers. This person gives me Taurus and Gemini vibes. They love food especially street food. They’re not confrontational but they will step up if need be “I’m not with the drama but don’t get it twisted, I got these hands.” Is what I heard. If you ever seen the tv show euphoria, your person reminds me of Fez a little bit lol.

Career hobbies: im hearing they love jogging or running. They love to paint as well. Im hearing they don’t have career per say but they do have ambitions. Im hearing freelance or one day owning some type of business (im seeing a gym) I do want to point out that this is the current energy they are in so when you 2 actually meet, they may be established in their chosen field

Sexually: very sensual in bed, they love the late night cuddles and conversations after y’all have sex. They don’t mind doing it whenever but at the same time they’re not in a rush either. Very chilled person like I said. they have a nice butt. If you’re interested in men then their 🍆 is long and slightly curved. If your interested in woman, they may have some hair down there

Astrological: Mercury, Taurus, Gemini, some Sagittarius as well

Letters: D, M, L, Y (First, Middle, Last name) or nick name

Overall your person sounds dope too me deer pile, I hope you enjoyed your reading

🐅

Physically: fine as hell! intimidating look at first. May have resting bitch face😅 I’m hearing covered in tattoos, they love tribal and quote type of tattoos. They have an intense stare, they can see your soul type of stare. They’re tall and muscular, they take care of their body. They have deep dimples that you can see when they’re talking. They’re very confident but not arrogant with it. Here’s the the thing, they’re attractive and they know it😅 they dress nice and love to wear suites or athletic wear. Classy gentleman vibes. They have dark brown panther type eyes, google panther eyes and that’s how your Fs stares at you🔥clean cut hair but when it grows out, it’s really curly. They’re not really a smiley type person but when they do, their smile lights up a room.

Personality: “all my life I’ve had to fight” is what I heard. I’m going to be honest here and say that y’all Fs has been through some traumatic things in their life!! This is why they carry this tough, intimidating persona, it’s a defense mechanism. The have a hard time opening up to people due to past betrayals especially with lovers. The good news is that they’ve been working on some healing. I do feel like when they meet you, they’re going to really start taking their healing seriously because they want to be the best person they can be for you🥹they’re very protective of loved ones as well not just physically but emotionally as well. “If someone hurts you, then I’m hurting them real talk” is what I heard. Your person sort of reminds me of Jax Teller from sons of anarchy. The bad boy /bad girl with heart of gold type of vibe. They’re big romantics as well, loves date nights and very funny. Sort of a jokester (especially dirty jokes)

Career/hobbies: they love working out, playing cards, camping, traveling is a big one Im seeing. They’re very proud of their family roots; I’m hearing Italian descent. So they may love traveling their family ancestral place. For career, they work in some corporate type of work. Hence why their wearing suits a lot lol. I’m hearing entrepreneurs so they may own a business. They love this type of work because it’s competitive and they’re competitive lol

Sexually: Whew Chile!! I hope you guys have lots of stamina because this person is very sexual omg! Your Fs works a lot so when they do have time for you they want to do everything with and too you. Now I’m blushing🫣 they’re open to do all positions. They’re favorite is missionary, not because they’re boring but because they want to look you deep in your eyes while they’re in you👀, they trying to snatch your soul and you’re going to let them. I heard “Make you lose your breath with each stroke” There’s a deep spiritual connection between you 2 so the sex is fire and otherworldly. They love to go down on you as well. If you’re interested in men/masc then they have a big 🍆, if you’re interested in women (fem) then they have nice breast.

Astrological: Mars, Aries, Capricorn with some Libra energy

Letters; T, V, D, B (first, middle, last name) or nickname

Well that was hot pile 2, I need a drink of water after that😂 I hope you enjoyed it tigers

🐘

Physically: I’m hearing this person has a very gentle aura about them. They feel like a warm fireplace with hot cocoa during a winter storm. I feel so relaxed. They’re medium height. Pillsbury doughboy just came to my head so they might be on fluffy side which is good for cuddling. Round face and brown curly hair and beard. Watery blue eyes, they may wear glasses(im not sure if it’s for reading or everyday use) big hands and feet😜, they love to wear sports jerseys. They have dimples and you can really see them when they laugh. They also have rosey cheeks and they blush a lot

Personality: this person is very shy, I’m having a hard time picking things up about them because they’re so hesitant. They may have been bullied growing up so it’s hard to open for them.🥹 They’re very much homebodies but don’t mind going out every now and then. They’re very much in a bubble and only those that’s in this bubble with them can see their true personality. I am hearing that they love watching and discussing movies. They’re great listeners. They’re more of a listener than a talker but they will carry a convo with you. They love their family, especially their mom. Very protective over them. Their a very family oriented person. Im sorry y’all, I’m not getting much here, their very private person.

Career/hobbies:watching and discussing movies, loves to cook (that was a big thing I received from y’all Fs) , watching sports. For career Im hardly getting jack squat😅Im only picking up on writer so they could be that

Sexually; very emotional connection when having sex. They’re pleasures rather than receivers. Your Fs sees sex as a bonding experience more than just a “hey let’s have sex” type of way if that makes sense. I’m not going to go furthur because they’re so private and shy compared to the other piles. I want to respect that. I’m hearing “I promise I’ll do my best to make sure they’re pleased.”

Astrological : Moon and Venus. Cancer, Pisces Aquarius and some taurus energy

Letters: B,R,A, D, H (first, middle, last name) or nickname

Hey I hope you all enjoyed my post ! Make sure to follow and share my content if you want to see more. Thank you!

[shotgunbunny]

“But daddy I love him.” with crybaby! reader aka defending Ransom to your father and the soft kisses and sex afterwords and him saying how proud he is of you. Maybe he also makes you cry more bc he just loves your tears.

✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧

WC:2k+ GIF by forchrisevans

I love love love this sm! I'm making this a dark ransom Au where he's a writer that's supa rich <3 A/n: I literally felt so bad for the dad in this fic why did I make the dad so sad man.

(Warnings!! Dark!Ransom!! Mentions of murder!! Smut!! Soft! Ransom!! tiny bit of angst!! Dirty talk!!)

You were excited for tonight. You were finally introducing you boyfriend to you parents. You weren't nervous as Ransoms cocky ways and charming nature eased your fears. He always had a way with words, maybe that's why he became a writer. You had tried to read one of his book before he pried it from your hands and began talking about how you wouldn't like the book, and because you loved him you trusted him.

You were absolutely oblivious to the fact that every book he wrote was centred around you. He wrote story after story about how after follow the woman of his dreams he finally had her and now he had to kill anyone who stood in his way. Half of his fans loved the books and the other half was terrified of Ransom and researching that all his girlfriends guy friends had died.

You sighed and stretched your limbs out on the king sized bed at Ransoms house. You turned and laid on him, drawing lazy flower patterns onto his chest. He looked at you softly, soaking in the attention you were offering him. "Ran?" He let out a deep hum before he brought his hand up to card through your hair. "Are you nervous for tonight?" He looked down at you and flashed you his winning smile.

"Not one bit baby, everyone loves me. Luckily you're the only one that has my love in return." And if they didn't love him, he'd set up there death as a car accident and sweep you off your feet into his house. He was ready with so many options so he wasn't nervous or scared. Instead he was curious to see what your parents reaction would be.

"Come on flower we best get up and get ready." You shook your head and settled firmly on top of Ransom. He chuckled at you and sat up. You clung to his shoulders and wrapped your legs around his waist. He slid his strong arm under your ass and stood up looking down at you and kissing your nose softly. "Hmm I thought you were my flower but you're actually just my koala." You giggled and stretched your legs out. He placed you down gently, kissing you sweetly one last time.

Ransom headed towards his walk in wardrobe and pulled out the famous white cable knit sweater. He looked kinder in this, more homely. Soft as you'd say. You smiled at him and he smiled back at you. He pulled his pants on and you pulled on your little black dress that Ransom adored. It wasn't too short, it was just right. He stared at you doped up on his love for you before he attacked your face with kisses.

You felt so safe in Ransoms arms while he rained kisses all over you. And just like that all your potential worries disappeared into the night.

Ransom pulled up into the large gravel drive way and flashed you a smirk. He was used to snobby driveways, after all he stemmed from a rich family. You both got out and Ransom tutted at you mumbling about how he wanted to open you door for you like a gentleman. You both closed your doors and Ransom hurried over to you, holding your hand as you began walking to the front door.

You pressed the door bell and it was immediately opened by your mother rather than one of the house cleaners. You smiled at her and you beamed at you, and the glanced at Ransom. "Come in both of you! Dinner has just finished being made!" She rushed off and you looked at Ransom. He looked down at you and pulled your hand which was interlocked with his, up to his face where he placed a tender kiss on your knuckles.

You both took your shoes and coats off and you led him to the dinning room. Your mum was hurrying around playing plates down all the while your father sat still until he moved his head and stared at Ransom. Beside your dad was one of Ransoms book. You were so happy your dad had read some of Ransoms works, surely he'd like him.

Whilst in Ransoms mind he knew he was completely and utterly fucked. The look in your fathers eyes and the glimpse of the folded pages in the book proved that he knew that Ransom was not everything he seemed. Ransom could feel his heart hurt a small bit, he knew that when the 'accident' happens you're gonna weep your little heart out and it will be all because of him. And for a split second, Ransom wished that there was another way instead of that but there wasn't. So he swallowed down the heart ache he'll suffer and sat down at the table.

Your father stared at him while your mother and you chirped happily about you day. You began digging into you meal as did you mum, both of you still nattering oblivious to the staring match between your dad and Ransom. He flashed him a gentle smile, a peace treaty almost, and began digging into the meal. "This is absolutely amazing Ma'am." Your mum blushed and thanked him.

As you were all dining your dad finally spoke, still staring at the sick bastard in front of him. "Hey honey, have you ever read any of Ransoms works?" You looked up and blinked noting the angry look burried in his eyes. "No, they're not my kinda thing." You turned to look at Ransom and flashed him a smile which he returned.

"Well you should honey. There's this one character in here that's exactly like your old friend. And he died the exact same way as he did." You dropped you fork and stared at your dad. Shocked that he would ever bring that up let alone try and claim Ransom had something to do with it. "Why would you say that?" Your dad turned his harsh glare towards you.

"I know you're not the brightest honey, but he's a goddamn sociopath! He's insane! I don't want you seeing him anymore!" You stood up shocked by your dad's behaviour, Ransom stood up too and left the room, he began getting his shoes and coat on when he heard your cries. He peaked around the corner and saw tears streaming down your face. "But daddy I love him! He would never hurt me! And he knows that if he hurt anyone I loved, it would hurt me! So how can you even suggest that!"

Ransom felt his heart hurt, he remembered holding you everynight while you were grieving your friends. God knows how much it would hurt when you had to grieve your parents. God he would do anything to avoid that outcome. "How stupid are you?! He's a murderer! He killed your friends claiming it was a sick and twisted version of love!"

You swallowed down a sob and bit back at him for these insane accusations. "I never want to see you again! You won't get an invite to our wedding or meet your first grandchild! Not until you apologize to the man I love!" You dad scoffed, tears in his eyes yet he was holding back. You mother was openly weeping. The pause lasted too long cementing your choice in choosing Ransom. You walked out and bumped into him. He hugged you and you got ready and left.

The second you were in the bedroom, Ransom was kissing you, softly sweetly. Every part of him was gently. Even as you began undressing each other, he treated you delicately. Not wanting to illicit tears, not yet. Because they'd be sad tears, not tears of ecstacy.

He kissed along your legs, allowing his hands to gently trail up your thighs before they splayed out on your hips. He moved his head up, and blowed along your wetness. Adoring the little flutter of your hips and the breathy moan that escaped your pretty mouth. He licked gently, slowly. Torturing you yet he was appreciating your taste, trying to put it into words. He went back for a second taste before he centred on your clit, he moved his hands then. Dragging one down towards your hole with a feather light tight before he plunged one finger in and then another. His other hand trailed up taking a breast in his hand.

He looked up and saw the beauty that was you, your head tilted back while moans escaped you like a desperate song. He flicked your nipple before he began gently circling it with his thick digit. While you were preoccupied with the stimulation of your nipple, Ransom plunged another finger into you before he pulled away completely.

He felt the need to be even more submerged in this moment of pleasure with you. He leaned down and captured your lips in his. Holding you close towards his body. You felt him move his tip up and down your slit, you could feel his precum mix with your own wetness. He stopped and places his cock against your hole. He stared down at you as if you were the world itself. "I love you so much." And with that he applied pressure and his cock slipped in with a pop. He slowly pushed down until he was fully settled in you.

You caught your breath after Ransom knocked it out of you by entering you. You stared at him and pressed you lips together, completely enthralled by him. By his declaration of love. He slowly began thrusting and pulled away, allowing for your shallow breathing to sink. "My angel, you did so good for me. Defended my name. Defended me. God you are worth every ounce of my love and more. Fucking perfect tight pussy. Was made for me by the Gods." You felt tears gather in your eyes at his words. He began thrusting faster.

His slid his hand down and began to circle your clit, watching with pride blooming in his chest as your tears slide down your face. You were embracing the ultimate pleasure of his cock and the result was something so beautiful that he couldn't even fathom how you weren't worshipped. He leaned down and licked your tears before pressing his forehead to yours and watching more tears stream down your face.

"Fuck you're so good to me baby, so fucking good. This pussy treats me so well too. Fucking grips my cock so well. Would worship this cunt, would worship you. So good baby."

He couldn't help it he took his hand away from your button and instead wrapped it around you throat, fucking you with vigor over the sight before him. Tears streaming down your face, his hand tight around your throat and your breasts bouncing. "Fuck! My little crybaby, you look perfect like this. Need this in a picture. Fucking beautiful. You deserve to be fucked like this baby." He leaned down and licked the tears off your face all the while holding your throat tighter making your face slowly bloom red over the lack of air flow. "Fuck it looks like you're crying diamonds. I'll get you a diamond, get you one for your dainty finger." He leaned down and placed a soft kiss on your lips.

Before he pulled away and squeezed tight on your throat and began pounding you so fast that it took only 5 thrusts before you convulsed on his cock and bucked you body up desperate to be free from his hands yet also enraptured in your orgasm. Ransom came seconds after. The tightness of your cunt and the beauty of you was enough to push him past his limit. His hips stuttered and he came, some of it inside you before he pulled out and coated you in it. He pulled his hand off your throat, embracing truly how amazing you were.

You laid catching your breath just barely recognising Ransom getting you water and a towel to clean you up. After that was all done he got in bed and you cuddled with him. Your head on his chest while his arm held you protectively. "You did so good for me baby, I'm so proud of you." You batted your eyelashes at him, utterly soft for his praise. "I did?" He smiled and kissed your forehead. "Absolutely my love, I'm so happy baby because of you. I'm gonna put a ring on you, that's how proud I am of you." You giggled and cuddled closer into him. "We'll see bear." And with that you fell into a peaceful sleep.

Ransom grabbed his phone and cancellation off the plan of the 'accident'. Instead he would wait for your dad to crack under the pressure. Especially when everyone else in the family got a wedding invite except him. Ransom was happy truly, there would be no more blood on his hands and now he could focus purely on you.

[therealdisneyfan2319]

Pop | Wanda Maximoff

Summary: When Wanda struggles with her teenage sons, you step up to help her out

Pairing: Wanda Maximoff x Male Reader

Warnings: Homophobia, mild language, mentions of alcohol

Word Count: 4.3K

Masterlist

A/N: This was a request from @gingerninja-93 and it’s probably the best thing I’ve ever written.  If you haven’t done so PLEASE go check them out on Wattpad because their work is hella dope.  Enjoy!

Teenagers can be a handful.  Especially when those teenagers are Billy and Tommy Maximoff.  It seemed that their thirteenth birthday was a catalyst for a complete personality shift.  Tommy, always the wild child, completely mellowed.  He found himself engrossed in the world of video games and began sleeping until noon much to his mother's chagrin.  Billy, on the other hand, took a turn for the worse.  The once tender and sweet little boy turned into a holy terror.  Dinner often ended in arguments, slammed doors, and tears of frustration from Wanda.  Not only was she confused about her son's erratic behavior, she also felt like a failure as a mother.

His unruly behavior wasn't confined to home, either.  It seemed that at least once a week Wanda was getting calls home from different teachers with tales of outbursts, failed tests, and neglected homework.  Detention became another weekly occurrence.  Many evenings either you or Wanda had to go pick him up from after school detention.

You tried to reassure Wanda that this was a phase many teenage boys experienced, but even you had your doubts.  You had some rough patches as a boy but nothing like what Billy was experiencing.  As much as you wanted to help him out, you and Wanda had only been dating for a little over a year.  You didn't want to overstep any boundaries seeing as you weren't his father.

The lowest point for Billy was when Wanda called you in tears telling you that Billy had been in a fight at school and needed to get picked up.

"I don't know what to do anymore, Y/N," Wanda sobbed.  "He won't listen to anything I say.  The arguments are bad enough, but fighting?  He wouldn't hurt a fly!"

"Look, why don't I go get him, okay?  You're upset right now and as much as I love you, sweetheart, you being angry isn't going to help," you sighed, rubbing your temple as you leaned on your other elbow.  "Maybe he'll open up if it's just the two of us, I don't know."

"Are you sure?  I don't want you to leave early again if you don't have to."

"It's okay.  I'm practically done anyways."  You shuffled some folders around your desk, seeing which ones you were finished with and which ones you could bring home to finish later.  "Call the school and let them know I'll be picking him up, okay?  I don't want them to freak out when it's not you."

"I love you," she smiled through the phone.

"I love you too.  We'll get him through this, I promise."

******************************************************************

Half an hour and an apologetic note to your boss later, you were standing outside the vice-principal's office at Westview Junior High.  Mr. Stearns was having one final chat with Billy Before you took him home.  You fidgeted in place, drumming your hands against your thighs as a wave of unease washed over you.  You couldn't tell if that was from your worries about Billy or the fact you were standing in the principal's office.

"Mr. L/N?"

You locked eyes with the kindly older gentleman as he opened the door.  Billy slunk past him, refusing to make eye contact with either of you as he dragged his backpack over to the bench on the other side of the hall.  The sight of him broke your heart: his once bright demeanor was replaced with a sullen introspection, the rosy cheeks and bright eyes swapped for sullen sockets and gaunt hollowness.

"Hey Mr. Stearns," you replied, not taking your eyes off the boy hugging his backpack to his chest.

"Can I speak to you for a moment?"

"You hesitated, not wanting to get too involved.  You weren't his father.  All of the discipline in the house fell to Wanda.  "Yeah, sure.  Billy, I'll be out in a minute, bud."  He didn't respond, his glazed eyes staring into nothing.

Mr. Stearns shut the door behind you as you took a seat across from his desk.  You gulped nervously, unable to shake the feeling you were the one in trouble.

"Your wife called to let me know you'd be picking Billy up," he said, removing his reading glasses and rubbing the red indents on the side of his nose.

"We're not married," you blurted as you felt your face grow hot.  "We've been together for almost a year and a half.  But I offered to come pick him up so she could calm down a bit. She's pretty upset about all of this."

Mr. Stearns clasped his hands together and leaned on his elbows as he stared down at you.  He wore a sympathetic expression on his face.  "You know, I've been working with middle schoolers for the better part of forty years now.  So I'm not a stranger to this sort of behavior.  A lot of kids, especially boys, really struggle at this age.  Feelings are new and big and they aren't prepared to deal with all these changes.  But when kids change so suddenly, like Mr. Maximoff here, that generally means something's wrong."

"He hasn't said anything to myself or Wanda," you answered truthfully.  "To be totally honest I try not to get too involved with the boys."

"Because you're not their father?"

"Is that a bad thing?"

"No, I don't think so at this point."

"I just don't want them to get hurt again, you know?  They lost their dad a few years ago and I know that's still a hard topic for everyone.  So, I don't know, I worry that if something happens between Wanda and myself that it'll break their hearts."  You stopped as you felt a lump form in your throat.  "Sorry...I love those boys, I really do.  But I don't want to replace their father."

"No one will ever replace their father, Mr. L/N.  But you're in a position where you can be a good role model for those boys.  I understand your concerns about not wanting to hurt them, but if you spend your time worrying about what may or may not happen you're going to miss out on the chance to really get to know them."

You sat there taking in his words.  Fatherhood wasn't something that was on your radar before you first met Wanda.  But the twins were a part of the deal.  If you wanted to have a strong relationship with her, you had to at least try to have a relationship with them.

"As much as I hate to do this, Billy's recent pattern of behavior gives me no choice but to suspend him for the rest of the week.  I understand he's struggling but I will not tolerate physical violence in my school."  Your heart sank at the prospect of having to tell Wanda about his suspension.  She was already at the end of her rope.  This wouldn't help.

"I understand.  And I'm sorry for all of this in the first place."

Mr. Stearns stood, straightened his tie, and walked over to let you out of his office.  "Look," he sighed.  "If you can figure out what's going on and there's something I can do to help, please just give me a call."

You nodded as you left the office.  Billy hadn't moved from the bench, his eyes still fixated on nothing as they filled with tears.

******************************************************************

The drive home was incredibly uncomfortable.  Billy rested his head against the window and gazed out at the passing landscape.  You gripped the steering wheel with sweaty palms, unsure if you should say something to him.  The soft patter of rain broke the silence as you flipped on the wipers.  Sighing loudly, you cleared your throat.  Billy looked over at you.

"So what happened?" you asked.  Billy shrugged, turning his attention back to the passing fields as he watched the tractors.  "Billy," you sighed.  "I'm not mad at you, okay?  I'm not gonna yell, I'm not gonna ground you, I just want to know what's going on.  Your mom's worried about you...and so am I."

Billy wiped his nose with his sleeve and sniffled as he looked down at the ground.  "He started it," he whispered.

"What?"  In an instant your heart was shattered.  "Who started it?"

"John.  John Kesler.  He wouldn't stop picking on me.  So I told him to quit it and he..." Billy's soft voice turned into sobs as tears rolled down his face.

You immediately pulled off to the side of the road, throwing your hazards on as you put the car in park.  "Hey bud," you said as you reached out to rub his back as he cried into his backpack.  "You're okay, you're okay.  But you've gotta tell me what he did.  If someone's bullying you, then we need to know so we can deal with it."

Billy nodded, his body heaving as he tried to calm himself down.  You kept rubbing his back, the contact helping to ground him as his sobs slowly subsided.  "He called me a faggot and pushed me into the lockers."  Billy sounded broken as he recounted the stories of relentless name-calling and teasing and taunting that had been going on for a few months now.

"So when did this all start?" you asked.  You searched through the glovebox for the travel tissues, handing him the pack as he sniffled.  He mumbled something as he blew his nose, but between the honking of snot and the now pouring rain it was hard to understand him.  "I missed that."

"It started when he found out who I like.  He heard me and Katie talking about it in the library, 'cause we both like the same guy."

The minute he said that everything changed.  Your eyes widened as the realization of what Billy told you smacked you upside the head.  As he saw the look of shock spread over your face, he bowed his head in shame.

"Please don't tell my mom," he whispered.  "She already hates me."

"Billy-"

"Please.  I don't want her to know," he begged, his eyes brimming with tears once again.  "She's gonna freak out, I know it."

"What?  Where'd you get that idea from?  You know your mom will love you regardless of literally anything, right?"  There was no way anything would make Wanda stop loving her boys.  She was a fierce mama bear.  If anything, knowing would make her an even more fierce defender.

Billy shrugged.  "Don't most parents freak out when their kid comes out?"

"They don't have to," you replied, shooting him a knowing glance.  "And to be honest, I don't think it'll even phase her.  But if you don't want me to tell her, I won't.  I'll let you do that, okay?"  Billy nodded, wiping a tear from his face with the back of his hand.  "Good.  Now let's get you home, okay?"

******************************************************************

"Suspended?!  Are you kidding me Y/N?" Wanda threw her hands up in exasperation.

"Look I'm not happy about it either but I think you need to cut him some slack."

"Slack?  He got suspended for fighting!  He's been cutting class, failing tests, and getting detention!  I have to do something!"

"What, ground him?  Send him to therapy, boarding school, one of those wilderness camps where they abuse the hell out of troubled kids?"

"Billy has to learn there are consequences for his actions!  So yes, he's grounded.  And if he keeps it up maybe I will consider boarding school."

You were astounded.  You'd never seen Wanda so angry before.  You could practically smell the smoke billowing from her ears.  It was difficult for you to keep your promise to Billy at that moment.  If Wanda knew the truth she would change her tone almost immediately.

"Wanda, please.  Let me talk to him.  I know I'm not his father but when I was that age there were some things I didn't want to tell my mom.  Maybe there's something going on he's not telling us.  Maybe he doesn't want you to know.  I don't know, I'm grasping at straws here"

"Y/N," she pleaded.

"Half an hour, okay?  Give me half an hour."

She stared at you, weighing her options as you stood in front of her.  You weren't below getting on your knees and begging.  After what Billy confided in you there was no way you'd let her punish him.

"Fine."  Wanda's tone was cold.  "Half an hour.  But that's it."  A sense of relief washed over you.

"Tell him to meet me in the garage, okay?  Please?"  Wanda sighed, rolling her eyes as she turned away and headed to the twins' room.

As soon as she left you raced to the garage all the while trying to remember where you put your boxing gloves.  The bag itself was resting in the back corner covered in a light layer of dust and surrounded by snow shovels.  You pushed those away, wrapping your arms around the heavy bag and lugging it to the hook in the center of the garage.   Grunt escaped your lips as you drove your legs up and lifted it overhead.

"What's that?"  It was Billy.  He was standing behind you, gawking as you lifted the bag over your head.  You grinned, pushing a sweaty strand of hair out of your face.

"This," you said as you slapped the bag with an open palm, "is a heavy bag.  Boxers train with it.  I've had it for a number of years and I think it's time I show you how to train...just as soon as I find those gloves."  You dug around the shelves, pushing aside old paint cans until torn red leather caught your eye in the dim light.  You blew the dust off them as you yanked them toward you.

"So these are gonna be a bit big, but once I wrap your hands they should fit a bit better.  We can always get you your own, too."  You knelt down in front of him, pulling the wraps out of the gloves.  "Alright give me a hand."  He raised his left hand up.  "Now when I was your age, I was an angry kid.  I got bullied, too.  My family didn't have a lot of money growing up, so I was always in oversized hand-me-downs.  I never had a backpack or a lunchbox.  We were on food stamps, my mom was constantly out of work, and my dad liked spending more time at the pool house than at home.  So yeah, growing up the poor kid in a rich neighborhood sucked."  You wrapped his hand meticulously, layering the narrow cloth over his small hands.  He watched intently at the intricate pattern you weaved.  "Next hand."  He switched his hand, flexing his wrapped hand against his side.  "So I got angry.  I punched holes in my wall, got into fights with my mom and siblings.  I started stealing beers when I was twelve.  But one day, after I broke a plate by throwing it at my mom's head, my dad dragged me outside to a tree in the backyard.  He had an old heavy bag hanging from it and a very old pair of gloves underneath.  And he showed me how to box.  He told me that whenever I felt angry I could channel that anger into the bag.  He said, and I've never forgotten this, that if I kept doing that I wouldn't end up like him.  So some days I'd spend hours on that bag and I'd punch it until my hands bled.  And honestly?  It saved my life."  You looked at him as you finished wrapping his wrist.  "Now come on, let's get you hitting this thing."

With a quick primer on how to position his hands and feet and the proper way to throw a punch, you let Billy go to town.  You stood by and watched, offering snippets of advice here and there.  But he was relentless.  There was a fire burning in his eyes as he focused on punching the bag as hard as he could.  After a series of particularly brutal punches and jabs Billy stepped away from the bag.  His small body heaved as he panted, sweat beading on his forehead.  You knelt down in front of him, grabbing him by the shoulders as you looked him in the eye.

"I know I'm not your father, and I want you to know that I will never, ever try to replace him.  You know you can always talk to me about anything if you don't feel comfortable going to your mom, okay?  But Billy, you being gay doesn't change the fact that I love you, and being gay doesn't mean you have to put up with being bullied.  I am on your side here, bud.  John's gonna have to go through me now."  Billy gave a little chuckle as you rubbed his shoulder with your thumb.  "And when you're ready I know your mom will be there, too."

Billy's eyes filled with tears as he lunged forward and wrapped you in the biggest bear hug you could possibly imagine.  You held him close, eternally grateful that you had finally made a breakthrough.  "So does this mean we might be able to stop with the detentions and fighting if we get this bullying under control?"  You felt him nod against you.  "Good," you smiled.

"Can I call you dad?"  The question took you by surprise.  You hadn't expected that at all.  Panic momentarily overtook you as you struggled to find an answer.

"Well I'm not sure about dad, but how about pop?  We should probably check with your mom first, but I'm okay with it if she is."  Billy grinned as he gave you another hug.  "Now if you keep up with boxing you'll get in great shape.  That'll definitely help you catch the eye of a respectable young man."  He giggled as you ruffled his hair.

As you looked up, you saw Wanda standing in the doorway, one hand over her mouth and the other over her heart, tears streaming down her face as she saw the two of you.  You smiled back at her before you looked back at the teenager who just adopted you.  "Why don't I get your mom in here so you can talk, okay?  You don't have to tell her anything you don't want to, but she needs to know that you're being bullied.  We can call Mr. Stearns and let him know, too."

"No, I think I want to tell her everything."  He stood a little taller as he told you that.  "But can it just be me and her?"

"Absolutely."  You groaned as you pushed yourself off the concrete floor.

"Thanks, pop," you heard from behind you.  Your heart instantly swelled with pride as you heard yourself addressed by your new title for the first time.

"Everything okay?" Wanda asked as she opened the door for you.  You immediately grabbed her waist and pulled her in, kissing her fiercely as she instinctively wrapped her arms around your neck.  "What was that for?" she laughed as you broke the kiss.

"I think I've been adopted by at least one of your sons," you replied.  Wanda cocked an eyebrow, thoroughly confused.  "He wants to talk to you.  But you need to let him talk first, okay?  Listen to what he has to say.  He really needs you right now."  Wanda smiled, giving you a quick peck on the cheek before  she walked into the garage where Billy sat unwrapping his hands.

You didn't want to eavesdrop on the most important conversation Billy was ever going to have with Wanda, so you decided to grab a glass of water from the kitchen.  But your curiosity got the better of you.  So after you placed the glass in the dishwasher, you crept back to the garage door.  As you peered around the corner, you saw Wanda and Billy, both sobbing, hugging each other as tight as they could.  You smiled, knowing that things would soon start turning around for all of you.

******************************************************************

"BILLY!  Teddy's here!" Wanda called from downstairs.

"Be right down!" you hollered back.  Billy was in your room standing in front of the mirror as you taught him how to tie his bowtie.  "Got it bud?" you asked, watching as his face furrowed in concentration while his hands fumbled the knot for the umpteenth time.

"Shit," he mumbled.

"Language!" you snapped.

"Sorry, pop," he sheepishly apologized.

"Want me to do it?" you sighed.  Billy nodded, the tie draped undone around his neck.  You walked over to him, squatting to eye level and skillfully turning the floppy ends into a perfectly sized bow.  "Are you excited for the dance?"

"Yeah."

"Nervous?"

"A little," he chuckled.

"That's okay.  I was terrified before my first homecoming, too.  Just don't step on Teddy's feet while you're dancing and you'll be fine."

"I'll try not to," Billy laughed.

Not only was it Billy's first homecoming dance, it was his first ever high school formal and the first dance he was attending with his boyfriend, Teddy Altman.  The two met at the youth boxing class at the Westview Boys and Girls Club.  After a couple of months, a conversation about not running up the phone bill, and a very awkward conversation about dating safety and safe sex (which Wanda insisted you have with both boys), Billy nervously went out on his first date with Teddy.  You weren't sure who was more nervous: Billy or Wanda.  Your fiancé spent the entire afternoon pacing around and rearranging the furniture as she eagerly awaited their return.  Much to everyone's relief the date went well, as evidenced by the beaming grins on both the boys' faces.  They'd been practically inseparable ever since.

The combination of finally coming out, getting the school involved in stopping the bullying, and having a new boyfriend precipitated a drastic change in Billy.  He returned to his previous happy self, brought his grades back up, and stopped picking fights at home and school.  As you predicted, Wanda was Billy's fiercest ally.  The rainbow flag proudly flew outside the house every day of the year now.  Tommy hadn't really cared.  Billy was still his twin and he was going to tease him either way, but he would fight anyone who dared to say anything about his brother to him.

"Looking good, kiddo!"  You patted his chest as you finished tying his powder blue bowtie.  "We should probably go downstairs.  Mom will want pictures."  Billy groaned.  "It's a mom thing, just make her happy."

You watched as Billy jogged out of the room and down the stairs.  His dress shoes echoed against the hardwood floor.  A sense of pride surged in you as you watched your stepson grow into a man right before your eyes.  The last year had been one of the hardest ones you'd experienced, but all of the struggle and strife was worth it.  The insurmountable joy of helping to raise the twins made you even more grateful for Wanda every day and was a driving factor in your decision to propose to her.

As you descended into the living room you saw Wanda snapping pictures of Billy and Teddy with her phone.  The toothy grins and beaming eyes on both their faces told the entire story.  It was a story of love and acceptance and excitement and youth.

"Just a few more!" Wanda said as she grabbed her polaroid camera to snap some instant photos of the boys.  You chuckled as Billy rolled her eyes at Wanda, who shot him a look that told him to relax.

"Alright boys, time to head out," you said as you checked your watch.  "Tommy: last chance to go to the dance if you want."

"Nah, I'm good," he replied.  Tommy was flopped on the couch engrossed in his online video game battle with some of his friends.  He wasn't one for school events.

"Okay, but can you run the dishwasher before your mother and I get back please?"

"Yeah, sure thing, pop."  He remained glued to the screen.

"Alright let's go!" Wanda grabbed her purse and keys as she headed to the garage.

******************************************************************

It was only a short drive to the high school from the house you and Wanda now shared.  The atmosphere in the minivan was one of excitement as you and Wanda shared your high school dance mishaps with the boys.

"Okay so we'll see you at 11.  It'll be one of us, I'm just not sure which one," Wanda told the boys as they pulled up to the main entrance.

"Okay mom!" Billy droned as he got out of the van.

"Text us if there's any problems or you want us to come get you early."

"Okay..."

"And remember to go find Mr. Stearns if anyone gives you trouble!"

"MOM!  Bye!"  Billy slammed the door.

"Thanks Mrs. Maximoff!" Teddy waved through the window before Billy dragged him away from the car.  They shoved each other playfully as they half-walked, half-jogged towards the school before Teddy grabbed Billy's hand, their fingers interlocking.  Wanda grabbed your hand as you watched them disappear through the double doors.  You smiled, grateful that everything was finally okay.

[astro-in-prog]

Lady and Lord Whistledown

I know we all love the Lord Whistledown jokes and calling Colin oblivious to his own feelings but I don't think we give Colin enough credit for being clever and shrewd - dare I say almost on par with Lady Whistledown herself 👀

He not only figures out Jack Featherington's scheme but plays along to get more info and when the time is right he turns on the charms on Cressida, gets his hands on her necklace as evidence and then exposes Jack.

Name even one gentleman from the ton who wouldn't immediately jump at Jack and oust him to everyone or threaten him with violence let alone figure out they were being duped - THEY WERE ALL IN FACT DUPED.

People love to point at Pen and call her shrewd (as if a woman trying to make her own money in a time where women had to completely depend on whoever they married to survive is an insane idea..?!) They make it sound like a bad thing. IT IS NOT. She has to be calculating if she wants to protect her identity and honestly, it is a dope character trait to have and very difficult to pull off effectively - which they do very well in my opinion.

Another reminder of how well matched Colin and Penelope really are in my opinion.

Anyways I cannot wait for Lady and Lord Whistledown to grace our screens and cook up some scheme or the other in s3!!

[u2fangirlie-blog]

Good Omens Aziraphale's Sad Bastard Breakup Playlist

After the breakup, Aziraphale has a new job in heaven, having taken Gabriel’s vacant position. Aziraphale is haunted by sad music reminding him of his time with Crowley. The songs are dramatic, tragic, melancholic, angry, wistful, romantic, and sentimental. How does he listen to music at his new job in the head office? Are material objects allowed? Does he keep a secret stash of tea, cake, and records and a phonograph player in his office? Does he have a celestial radio that can tune in Earth radio stations? Does he sneak off to Earth to hang out in record shops and bookstores? Or more dramatically and emotionally torturously, does he remember every note, every nuance, every feeling, of every song and replay them in his mind? He's stuffing his face with angel food cake and tea while crying and listening to sad bastard songs and hiding from Michael and the Metatron.

See note after list on song selection process.

Songs include:

“Lacrimosa” – Mozart, Requiem in D Minor, Vienna Mozart Orchestra

“Commendatore” – Mozart, Don Giovanni, Amadeus film soundtrack

“Ja, tot katoramu vnimala” – Rubenstein, The Demon, Nicolai Ghiaurov

“D’amour l’ardente flemme” – Berlioz, The Damnation of Faust, Maria Callas

“Liebestod” – Wagner, Tristan and Isolde, Waltraud Meier

“Ach ich fuhls” – Mozart, The Magic Flute, Gundula Janowitz

“Thy hand, Belinda … When I am laid in earth” – Purcell, Dido and Aeneas, Janet Baker

“E lucevan la stelle” – Puccini, Tosca, Placido Domingo

“Celeste Aidia” – Verdi, Aida, Mario Lanza

“Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen” Mahler, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau

“Der Wanderer” – Schubert, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau

“Love is a Plaintive Song” – Gilbert and Sullivan, Patience, D’Oyly Carte Opera Company

“I am a Courtier Grave and Serious” – Gilbert and Sullivan, The Gondoliers, D’Oyly Carte Opera Company

“The Gentleman is a Dope” – Rodgers and Hammerstein, Allegro, Blossom Dearie

“A Hymn to Him” – Lerner and Lowe, My Fair Lady, Rex Harrison

“Could I Leave You?” – Sondheim, Follies, Alexis Smith

“We Do Not Belong Together” – Sondheim, Sunday in the Park with George, Bernadette Peters and Mandy Patinkin

“On My Own” – Schonberg, Les Misérables, Frances Ruffelle

“As Long as He Needs Me” – Bert, Oliver, Judy Garland

 “Stranger in Paradise” – Wright and Forest, Kismet, Richard Kiley and Doretta Morrow

“A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square” – Sherwin and Maschwitz, Vera Lynn

“Night and Day” – Porter, The Gay Divorcee, Ella Fitzgerald

“I’ve Got You Under My Skin” – Porter, Born to Dance, Shirley Bassey

“Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered” – Rodgers and Heart, Pal Joey, Sarah Vaughan

“They Can’t Take That Away From Me” – Gershwin, Shall We Dance, Fred Astaire

“Mon Deu” – Dumont and Vaucaire, Edith Piaf

“Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien” – Dumont and Vaucaire, Edith Piaf

P.S.: Aziraphale likes Les Mis because it reminds him of that time Crowley rescued him from the Bastille. Don't tell anyone. It's a big secret.

P.P.S.: “Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered” reminds him of the time he and Crowley got drunk in the backroom at the bookshop the day the anti-Christ was delivered to Earth. Basically, this song reminds him of every time they went out for drinks or stayed in and drank.

P.P.P.S.: “I am a Courtier Grave and Serious” was the song Aziraphale planned to play when trying to tempt Crowley into learning the gavotte. It reminds him of the ball in the bookstore when he finally danced with Crowley.

P.P.P.P.S.: “Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien” is as close as Aziraphale can get to telling the world and Crowley to eff off. He has no more effs to give. Or at least he’s trying to convince himself he no longer gives a f***. He’s going off to his new job at the head office and Do Good.

Note on song selection:

I selected songs that thematically fit with the relationship between Aziraphale and Crowley. I think the songs tell a story of Aziraphale’s struggle to reconcile his conflicted motivations. They reflect Aziraphale’s fears and desires. He fears being hauled off to hell for disobedience. He fears Crowley’s death and being alone in the world. He desires to be emotionally intimate with Crowley. (Dare he risk physical intimacy with Crowley?) He feels self-righteously indignant, but he’s soft and squishy and weepy and misses his best friend.

I don’t have much knowledge of opera or musical theater, but I have some experience with choir and solo performance. I did a lot of research into opera, art songs, musicals, showtunes, and standards to create a playlist on YouTube. Selections were based on availability, popularity, and sound quality. My big question was whether or not Aziraphale is a strict originalist or if he likes different versions of songs. In some places, I chose newer versions over original versions due to the sound quality of the recordings. I tried to keep selections accessible to a wide audience with varying degrees of musical knowledge. You may not like my choices, so your mileage may vary. You can make your own playlist.

You can listen to it on YouTube.

[skwilbur-thebagman]

Thinking about my father a lot lately and the dreams he had for himself and possibly what he might have dreamt for my brother, sister, and me. There’s an unspoken promise that I made to him to “become” everything that he envisioned and sacrificed for. I’ve got a ways to go, so that journey of “becoming” continues. • • • #sunday #sundayvibes #streetstyle #swagger #handsome #gentleman #style #fashion #mensstyle #dapper #dope #family #daddy #gay #bag #handbag #wow #WhoAreUCarrying #SKWiLBUR #ItsAllInTheBag (at Brooklyn, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/CokwcG0PpEM/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[buckybringsviolets]

Can I get a letter from 40s Bucky? Like an enemies to lovers one. Where he lists all the things that annoys him about her and then confesses that he actually loves them and her? A little angst to sweet sweet fluff?

Love>Hate

Hope this is what you had in mind!

40's Bucky X Female Reader

600+ words

No warnings except for lovesick Buck

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

  Little troublemaker,

      You asked me why I hate you so I’m gonna tell ya. I’m gonna try to keep my cool and not curse, but dammit doll, no one makes my blood boil like you do. And before you go and call me chicken for not confronting you in person with this, I’m only writin’ you ‘cause I don’t want to catch heck from Steve. 

Okay, here goes, right outta the gate, when we first met, at the age of 8. When Steve introduced you. “Bucky?! What kinda name’s that? Sounds like your ma & pa named you after a dog.” You then started giggling, Stevie joining in with ya. “It’s a nickname, short for Buchanan, my middle name.” I told you, a smirk on my face. And you just smiled at me.

 Even then, so young, but such a know-it-all. The way you talked, like you know everything, rattling off facts left and right, Ol’ Stevie just listening to ya like you’re the smartest person alive or something. “Did you know that horses and cows can sleep standing but only dream when lying down?” you’d look so proud, waiting for me to say something. “Yeah, that’s really something sweetheart.” 

 Speaking of Steve, don’t think I didn’t notice how you worked your way into his heart, by the time we were starting middle school it became Y/N & Steve this, Stevie & Y/N that. Stevie said you always asked about me, wondering why I was around much, but I think you were just looking to tease me about something. 

  That summer, between middle & high school? The trip the 3 of us took to Coney Island? Not only did you chase away Betty McIntosh (she was a real cookie! 😍) but you won that stuffed bear, THEN gave it to me! Jesus, doll, I wanted to win one for you!

  I’m not even going to start in on prom. Every girl I asked, every one, said no way, that I was too hung up on you. “Y/N?! Are you nuts?” then they’d say “Yes, y/n!”  I honestly don’t know what you told them to say that. But you must’ve said something. 

    And now, the way you go out with these guys, active duty men, I nicely warn you about them, ask you where they’re planning on taking ya. And you get all feisty with me “that’s none of your concern Bucky!”  Just me looking out for you, and you’ve gotta get all upset with me. Just being a gentleman and all I catch is flak.

  Doll, I’m gonna be a bit honest here, you kinda stunned me with what you said. “Bucky, why do you hate me?” a look on your face like I ain’t never seen before, something like concern, maybe heartbreak? And me, hate YOU? That is most certainly not something I could ever feel for you. 

  From the first time I saw you, when Stevie said “ this is y/n y/l/n, she’s new in town.” I knew. I was hooked. Doll, you are everything to me and more. But how could I ever tell you just how perfect you are? Not when I’m so… so not perfect. So I pushed you away. For your own good. Convinced myself you were better off without a mess up like myself. 

  So hate is not what I feel towards, for, you. Love, adoration, deep affection, definitely. You are amazing, gorgeous, so amazingly smart, generous to a fault. How could I not adore you, doll face? 

  Now before you start screaming at me, cut me some slack. I know I’m a dope, Stevie lets me know that every chance he gets. I’m crazy ‘bout you sweetheart, so maybe my brains a bit fried. 

 How about you let me take you out? Little dancing, a quick bite to eat, try my damndest to make it up to ya. Because y/n, you are IT for me. The endgame. ‘Till the end of line doll. 

  My love, always

  James Buchanan Barnes

[schlattsdoll]

hi rikki! just wanted to send some fluff to u, i've been in a fluffy mood recently hehe

your first date with schlatt. it's pretty nerve-wracking since you had a crush on him since the semester began and he asked you out kind of on a whim. you decide to dress up a little fancier than normal and he's just like: "wow, you look beautiful."

and he looks so nice too! (i'm imagining the outfit he wore in the margaritaville video)

he's just the perfect gentleman the whole time, holding the door for you, pulling out your chair, the whole shebang.

and the date is really nice! you talk a lot and the food is good and he even insists on paying :((

after you go on a walk in the park nearby. it's a little chilly so he gives you his jacket to wear. (💥💳💥💳)

he walks you back to your place once all's said and done.

"i had a great time."

"me too, we should totally do this again sometime."

and the night ends with a kiss, naturally. him cupping your cheek and softly smiling before leaning in.

and once you're inside you squeal into your pillow cuz oh my god you just kissed.

-rabbitsrams

stella bb 🩷 tysm for this fluffy goodness im picturing fratboy! schlatt too???

schlatt being known as the asshole in class, being a smartass and all around a stereotypical fratboy, until he meets you. you with the beautiful eyes, a smile that could melt ice and the most amazing personality.

he’d be so nervous about asking you out, what if you said no? what if you’re already taken? there’s no way you didn’t have a partner, he’d think to himself. he’d spend hours gushing to his brothers about you. charlie finally told him to suck it up and ask you out. and that he did just that next class.

the date he had planned was super out of character for him, or at least you thought. you were nervous yourself, one knowing his reputation and two having the biggest crush on him. he’d be the ultimate gentleman, pulling out chairs and actually making sure you don’t see the check. “a true gentleman always pays, doll.” the nickname causing you to blush.

he takes to to go for a walk and notices your shivering a bit, so he takes off his jacket and wraps it around your shoulders. the difference in your size noticeable with how much the jacket hangs from you.

after walking you back to your place, you go to give him his jacket back and he says “nah keep it. it looks cute on you. i had a really great time tonight, maybe we can do this again?” his eyes keep flickering back to your lips, and he brings a hand up to your cheek. leaning in ever so slightly, he goes in for a goodnight kiss, his smile evident.

once inside you squeal into your pillow because you just had a successful date with your crush and he kissed you.

the next class, you walk into the room wearing his jacket and he smiles like a dope. he pulls out his phone and texts you quickly

jay ❣︎ : ya look good doll. maybe next time i’ll give you a hoodie so you’ll be even comfier :)

[gorbalsvampire]

𝖃𝕴𝕴𝕴 𝕿𝖆𝖑𝖊𝖘 𝖋𝖗𝖔𝖒 𝕱𝖊𝖚𝖉𝖆𝖑 𝕭𝖔𝖍𝖊𝖒𝖎𝖆

𝔄𝔠𝔱 ℑℑ, 𝔰𝔠𝔢𝔫𝔢 𝔦𝔦𝔦

Our story is interrupted! for this crucial bit of Real Life context. Certain participants in the endeavour, to whit @gwenynen-bach and ol'Relleytrots here, might have decided to go hiking in the afternoon before play, and might have taken the "rocky and prone to flooding" path, and might have stumbled in exhausted fifteen minutes before we were due to resume our story and begged clemency because dear God in Heaven we needed a nap. Also, I didn't feel up to running the prepared material - I was too sleepy for Vysehrad - so once again, this one was turned over to player direction.

Theodericus was concerned about Libussa ("she may be a queen, and if so I must pledge to her; she may be a ghoul, and mistreated, and if so I must avenge her"). Alzbeta was curious about Libussa (she clearly isn't a Cainite, but she clearly isn't entirely mortal; she doesn't cleave to a master, so can she be a ghoul?). Marsillius had been reading up on Libussa, reiterating the story of the city's founding and the Maidens' Revolt. Mariam didn't give two shits.

In an attempt to resolve the matter, then, Theodericus enjoyed "a prolonged but gentle sexual encounter" in his as-yet-undisclosed feeding location, then set forth to meet with Alzbeta, who knew where the madwoman who claimed to be a queen could be found. Alas, his way was barred by the furious and frumptious Sister Berta, who did not like all these gentleman callers. (Apparently she's a favourite SPC already, and she will be returning.) Theodericus had to grit his teeth and exert some Willpower to talk her into letting Alzbeta out to play... and then inflicted some psychic damage of his own on the surrounding with his continued inability to grasp even the basic tenets of Christianity. At least it let Alzbeta reveal her secret heresy: she too believes there is a motherly aspect to the Trinity, or perhaps missing from it.

Also, Theodericus can't remember Marscellaneous' name. He really is a dope. And apparently thirsty for women who can fight.

SMASH CUT. Mariam was trying to wait patiently for Matzah Ball to return and the coterie to be prepared to approach Vysehrad, but her quiet night in was spoiled by that itchy twitchy Nosferatu compulsion. In an attempt to excise the hunger for sekrits, she decided to break into Rabbi Zachary's house again, only to discover that it had already been broken into!

Remonstrating with Jacob, known breaker of houses, whose name appeared in her little black book, Mariam took a little vitae from him and replaced it with THE FEAR OF G-D, essentially waterboarding him in a rain-butt until he explained exactly what he'd stolen (some of the rabbi's silverware) and what he'd done with it (sold it to a Christian, a woman with raven hair and a pinched, haunted beauty). Mariam: "If you love the Christians so much that you go among them, pray let me finish your baptism," and promptly drowns a man. That's a Stainin'.

SMASH CUT. Theodericus and Alzbeta found Libussa on the steps of St. Thomas, and in the act of gently questioning her, Theodericus was forced to initiate SOCIAL CONFLICT. One Messy Critical later, and he too had taken a Stain for imposing his will onto her - but it got the results he wanted. Libussa's mind seemed to fracture and rearrange itself, and the newer, clearer Libussa presumed Theodericus had seen what she had seen: the eyes of the Great Mother, watching from every flame. Alzbeta derived that Libussa was under some kind of supernatural compulsion that had been temporarily broken, and as she comforted the poor sobbing creature, Theodericus pushed on: at another Willpower's forfeiture, he got the name Shaagra out of her (the players, collectively, were expecting Valasca... I think I telegraphed her too much), and he asked his third and final question.

"When did you last see the Great Mother?"

Another Willpower and a Rouse, but the truth came out. Libussa told them it had been almost a hundred years, but she did not have long to wait; that faith defiled was calling her to Shaagra, and innocent blood would bring Shaagra back to her. She identified herself, proud and upright and clear, as the Queen of the Goths, the wife of Premysl and mother to the kingdom of Bohemia, to whom Theodericus immediately pledged his sword... and vowed that both Theodericus and Alzbeta would be spared.

Alzbeta was struck by inspiration. What if she Embraced Libussa? This was not something I had expected... but I'd love it if she followed through.

SMASH CUT. A hungry Marsillius fed off someone brought to the monastery for treatment of his ailments; a wounded knight who'd fallen somewhere in the woods outside the city. Drinking deep, too deep, Marsillius' Hunger inflicted some Aggravated damage on the poor man, even as he clasped the Frankish soldier's hand and prayed for forgiveness that he had done the sins of Gluttony and Lust. Nearly got a third Stain in there. Nearly.

At this point, while he was outside having a Moment, Mariam arrived. She had identified the description of the Christian to whom that silver had been sold as analogous to Serena, Marsillius' elder blood-sister, and wanted the monk to take her to Serena so some questions could be asked. Gently but firmly.

Serena, at ease in the map room of the Prince's tower, and not by his side for once, was passing the night in deep contemplation of a book. Mariam pressed her to show that the book had not come from the library of the Rabbi Zachary, and in another round of SOCIAL CONFLICT Serena cracked and showed the frontispiece. Definitely not. Nothing to confirm it was his. Just a Gorgon's head.

Furious at the false accusation, Serena revealed another possibility. Upstairs, at that moment, her Prince was cloistered with a brother Ventrue, a visitor named Orsi, whose chief ghoul had raven hair and a thin face. Could she be the Christian to whom the silver had been sold? Mariam was determined to find out, delivering an impassioned explanation to Marsillius that it was not the silver that mattered, but the insult to the Jewish people; the arrogance of the Gentile who presumes that what is their is hers and her master's. On that point, Serena and Mariam were in full accord, and also on another: that theft by mortals and fencing to ghouls is not something Prince Brandl truly needs to know.

Not bad for an improvised session. Two Stains, six rounds of Social Conflict, one murder and one near miss, and I got to play three of my favourite SPCs.